Today we’d like to introduce you to Jody Rivera
Hi Jody, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I knew I wanted to do hair from the time I was 13. Even then, I was drawn to the artistry of it—the way it could transform not only how someone looked, but how they felt. By the time I was 20, I moved from Houston to pursue an apprenticeship in New York City, where I trained for nearly four years. New York taught me the technical skills and discipline I needed, but more importantly, it showed me the power of being a little fearless.
In 2016, I opened Swamp Mermaid Beauty Project in Austin, Texas. The vision was simple: to create a space where people felt seen, celebrated, and inspired. But, as with many new business owners, I quickly learned that passion alone isn’t enough. The first six years were filled with challenges as I juggled the creative side of the business while trying to navigate the operational side without a formal background in entrepreneurship. To be more honest, a high school dropout.
The last year has been a turning point. I’ve shifted my focus to leadership, team development, and refining our business model to reflect our core values—integrity, compassion, transparency, and acceptance. By investing in the culture of Swamp Mermaid, I’ve not only built a stronger team, but I’ve also created an environment where creativity thrives.
Today, Swamp Mermaid is more than a salon; it’s a community. From modern hair services and cosmetic tattooing to laser tattoo removal, we’ve become known for transforming lives in ways that are sustainable and innovative. We’re also proud to be a Green Circle Salon, aligning our values with eco-friendly practices.
This spring, we’ll be opening our second location, an opportunity to grow our vision even further while remaining rooted in what makes Swamp Mermaid unique.
For me, this journey has been about more than hair—it’s about building something that lasts, not just in terms of style, but in the lives of the people who trust us. I’m grateful for every challenge and every success because they’ve led me to this moment, where I get to see my 13-year-old dream come full circle.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest struggles for me came from not having any formal education in running a business or a salon. I was confident in my skills as a stylist and artist, but I never learned how to lead or manage a team, let alone create a budget or handle the financial side of things. For a long time, I was winging it—trying to figure everything out as I went.
Early on, I didn’t understand the importance of systems or structure, so everything felt chaotic. I didn’t know how to delegate or hold people accountable, which often left me feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. On top of that, I had no real grasp of budgeting, which meant I wasn’t tracking where money was going or how to plan for growth. I was passionate, but passion without a plan can only take you so far.
Another challenge was learning how to communicate effectively with my team. I used to think leadership was just about being good at what you do, but I’ve realized it’s about so much more—supporting your team, setting clear expectations, and creating a culture where everyone feels valued and aligned with the bigger vision.
These struggles were tough, but they also forced me to grow. I started seeking out mentors, taking courses, and surrounding myself with people who could help me learn what I didn’t know. It’s still a work in progress, but every challenge has taught me something valuable and brought me closer to the leader and business owner I want to be.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in making people feel seen and meeting them where they’re at. Whether it’s a hair transformation, cosmetic tattooing, or corrective work, I love helping clients feel confident and like the best version of themselves.
With 28 years in hair and 18 years in cosmetic tattooing, I’ve developed a passion for transformations and fixing things that didn’t go right the first time—like microblading or haircuts that need some extra love. I focus on creating natural, timeless results that feel authentic to each person.
What I’m most proud of is the trust I’ve built with my clients. Helping someone walk out the door feeling amazing is what keeps me inspired every day.
What makes you happy?
What makes me happiest is connecting with people and helping them feel seen and confident. Whether it’s transforming someone’s look, mentoring my team, or watching Swamp Mermaid grow, I love making a positive impact.
I also find so much joy in my family and being a mom to two amazing boys. One is a sous chef at Emmer & Rye, and the other is following in my footsteps at the Aveda Institute. Seeing them thrive and find their passions makes me incredibly proud and happy.
Creativity is another big part of my happiness—whether it’s hair, tattooing, or photography, I love using my skills to help people express themselves. At the end of the day, it’s all about creating something meaningful and lasting, both at work and at home.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.swampmermaidaustin.com
- Instagram: swamp.mermaid.beauty
Image Credits
Any photo of myself was taken my Carli Rene of Inked Fingers. All other photos were taken by me.
