We recently connected with Josue Cruz and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Josue, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.

In late 2021, amidst the chaos of the pandemic, I found myself at a crossroads, grappling with the weight of uncertainty and the pressing urge to reassess my life. Juggling part-time content creation with a demanding full-time job in the mental health sector was taking its toll. Despite my efforts to switch to a less stressful role, I hit a dead end. It was a clear sign that I needed to make a choice – stick with the safety net of my job or take a leap into the unknown and pursue my passion for content creation.

It wasn’t an easy decision. I was nervous about the risks involved, especially the financial uncertainty. But after weighing my options, I decided to take the plunge. I left my job and went all-in on building my brand, “Healthy Bearded.”

The initial stages were marked by turbulence as I navigated the unfamiliar terrain of entrepreneurship. Adjusting to the financial constraints imposed by the transition, I refused to get discouraged, channeling my energies into honing my craft and expanding my skill set. Embracing the art of video editing with fervor, I seized upon newfound opportunities, venturing into freelancing and collaborating with esteemed brands, including prominent voices in the boxing podcasting sphere.

As I reflect on the trajectory of my journey, I am imbued with a profound sense of gratitude for the path less traveled. The risk, though daunting, has been unequivocally rewarding, affording me the freedom to chart my own course and realize my fullest potential. I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

In 2020, I embarked on a journey to lose weight and began paying more attention to self-care. This newfound focus led me to explore grooming, particularly caring for my beard. As I delved into the world of beard care, I found a wealth of information and a supportive community on YouTube.

Motivated by my experiences and the camaraderie within the beard community, I decided to share my knowledge and passion by creating my own YouTube channel called “Healthy Bearded.” On this channel, I review various beard products, offer grooming advice, and host a weekly livestream titled the “Community Meet-Up,” where I engage with viewers, interview brand owners, and discuss trending topics in grooming and beyond.

“Healthy Bearded” isn’t just about grooming; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among men. I strive to provide practical guidance and create a space where individuals can feel confident in their grooming choices. The feedback I receive from viewers around the world, expressing gratitude for the impact of my content, is incredibly rewarding and fuels my dedication to the channel.

Ultimately, “Healthy Bearded” is more than a platform – it’s a community-driven endeavor aimed at promoting self-care, confidence, and connection among men. As I continue to grow and evolve, I remain committed to providing valuable resources and support for individuals on their grooming journeys.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being creative is the ability to express oneself authentically and connect with others on a deep and meaningful level. As a creator, I have the privilege of channeling my thoughts, information, and experiences into my work, whether it be through visual art, video, or other forms of social media. Also, I love the art of storytelling. I find great reward in being able to compose and develop an idea then translate that to video and provide production.

Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of being creative is the ability to make a positive impact – whether it’s by sparking dialogue, challenging perspectives, showing people how to save money when buying products, or simply bringing beauty and inspiration into people’s lives. It’s a privilege and a responsibility that I cherish deeply.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Two influential figures have significantly shaped my entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy. One of them is Ali Abdaal, a prominent voice in the realm of productivity and brand scaling. Through his YouTube channel and content, Abdaal provides invaluable insights into time management and goal-setting, offering practical strategies that resonate with entrepreneurs seeking growth and efficiency. His vast following attests to the relevance and impact of his teachings, which have empowered countless individuals to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship with clarity and purpose.

Another source of inspiration for me is Steven Bartlett, whose podcast “The Diary of a CEO” captivated me with its thought-provoking interviews featuring CEOs and other successful figures. Bartlett’s incisive questions and the candid insights shared by his guests left a profound impression on me, prompting me to delve deeper into his work. His book, also titled “The Diary of a CEO,” further illuminates the entrepreneurial journey, drawing on the wisdom and experiences of some of the world’s most accomplished individuals. From strategic decision-making to navigating challenges and maintaining balance, Bartlett’s book offers a treasure trove of business insights that have enriched my entrepreneurial perspective and guided my approach to building and scaling my ventures.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthybearded/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/healthybearded
• Other: TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@healthybearded