Meet Julio Rodriguez | CEO & Founder Spoons Agency

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julio Rodriguez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julio, how does your business help the community?
At Spoons Agency, our impact goes far beyond marketing metrics. We see ourselves as catalysts for growth in the hospitality industry, helping restaurants and food businesses not just survive, but thrive. By driving consistent foot traffic, boosting online visibility, and improving customer loyalty, we’re directly supporting local economies — from the chefs and waitstaff to the farmers, suppliers, and service providers they work with.

When a restaurant grows, it creates jobs, sustains families, and keeps cultural traditions alive through food. Our work amplifies that ripple effect. Every campaign we run is not just about increasing sales; it’s about strengthening communities, preserving culinary heritage, and giving small and medium businesses the tools they need to compete in an ever-changing market.

On a broader scale, we’re passionate about sharing knowledge. Through workshops, training, and transparent collaboration with our clients, we empower entrepreneurs to make smarter decisions, even beyond the scope of our services. In short, our mission is simple: when our clients win, their communities win — and that’s how we measure true success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Spoons Agency is a hospitality-focused marketing powerhouse, but what truly sets us apart is that we don’t rely on flashy pitches or aggressive sales tactics to grow. Our business is built on results so undeniable that they become our best form of advertising. When you consistently generate over 20,000 new visitors for restaurants each year, hit a 40%+ open rate in email campaigns, and drive a 14% conversion rate from Google Ads, people notice. New clients find us — not the other way around.

What I’m most proud of is the trust we’ve earned. Our clients know we’re not just vendors; we’re partners in their growth. We share their wins as if they were our own, and when challenges arise, we’re there with solutions — fast. That loyalty and transparency have shaped the DNA of our agency.

Getting here wasn’t easy. The hospitality industry is fast-paced and unpredictable, and like any business, we’ve faced economic downturns, shifting consumer behaviors, and the constant evolution of digital platforms. The way we’ve overcome these challenges is simple but not easy: we adapt quickly, we stay data-driven, and we never lose sight of the human connection behind every campaign.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned?

Transparency builds trust faster than any marketing strategy. Tell people what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear.

Loyalty is a growth strategy. Stand by your clients in good times and bad, and they’ll stand by you.

Results speak louder than words. Let your track record be your loudest marketing campaign.

What I want the world to know about Spoons Agency is this: we measure success in the ripple effects we create. Every time a restaurant fills its tables because of a campaign we designed, it’s not just revenue — it’s jobs created, local suppliers supported, and communities strengthened. That’s the kind of impact we’re here to make, and that’s the story I’m proud to tell.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Downtown & History

Morning: Take a free guided tour of the Texas State Capitol. The grand architecture and rich history are a great way to start your trip.

Evening: Head to the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk to witness the incredible spectacle of 1.5 million bats emerging for their nightly flight. It’s a quintessential Austin experience.

Day 2: South Congress (SoCo) & Food

Morning: Stroll down South Congress Avenue (SoCo). This vibrant district is famous for its quirky boutiques, vintage shops, and colorful street art, including the iconic “I love you so much” mural at Jo’s Coffee.

Afternoon: Indulge in some of Austin’s best food truck fare. Grab some delicious tacos from a local favorite like Torchy’s Tacos or Veracruz All-Natural and enjoy them at a picnic table.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning: Explore Zilker Metropolitan Park. You can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake, or simply relax on the sprawling green lawns.

Afternoon: Cool off from the Texas heat at Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre natural spring-fed pool located within Zilker Park.

Day 4: Music & Nightlife

Morning: Dive into Austin’s music history at the Bullock Texas State History Museum, which often has exhibits on the state’s culture and music scene. You can also visit the Texas Music Museum for a more focused look.

Evening: Experience why Austin is the “Live Music Capital of the World.” Head to 6th Street for a lively bar scene, or check out more authentic venues like The Continental Club on South Congress or the legendary Broken Spoke for some classic honky-tonk dancing.

Day 5: Arts & Culture

Morning: Wander through the grounds of the Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum, a serene outdoor space showcasing the works of American sculptor Charles Umlauf.

Afternoon: Visit the Blanton Museum of Art on the University of Texas campus. It’s one of the largest university art museums in the country and has an impressive permanent collection.

Day 6: Hill Country & Views

Morning: Take a short drive to Mount Bonnell, one of Austin’s highest points, for a panoramic view of the city skyline and the surrounding Hill Country.

Afternoon: Go on a wine tasting or brewery tour in the Texas Hill Country. You can find many tours departing from Austin that will take you to local wineries and breweries.

Day 7: Unique Austin

Morning: Explore East Austin. This neighborhood is known for its cool breweries, unique shops, and a more laid-back vibe. It’s also home to some of Austin’s most acclaimed barbecue joints.

Afternoon: Go on a hunt for Austin’s famous street art and murals. The city has a vibrant public art scene, with colorful walls and installations around almost every corner. Don’t forget to take a photo at the “Greetings from Austin” mural!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely — no success story is ever written alone, and mine is no exception. First and foremost, I have to recognize our clients. They’ve trusted Spoons Agency not just with their marketing, but with their vision, their livelihood, and in many cases, their dreams. That trust is something I’ll never take for granted, and it’s the fuel that drives us to deliver exceptional results every single day.

I also owe a huge debt of gratitude to my team. They are the backbone of everything we do — the creative minds, the problem-solvers, the ones who make sure every campaign not only looks great but actually performs. Their dedication, talent, and relentless pursuit of excellence inspire me constantly.

And finally, my family and close friends. Their encouragement, patience, and belief in me — even during the challenging times — have kept me grounded and motivated. Building a business is never just about business; it’s about having people who remind you why you started in the first place and stand by you while you figure out the “how.”

If I’ve achieved anything, it’s because of the collective effort, loyalty, and belief of these incredible people. This shoutout is for all of them.

Website: https://spoons.agency/