April Monterrosa

I believe some of the best opportunities are the ones we create ourselves.

I’m an entrepreneur, publisher, writer, author, speaker, emcee and media personality in San Antonio, Texas. For more than 20 years, I’ve built businesses, told stories, created platforms and connected people to opportunities.

My Story

My entrepreneurial journey started early. At 12 years old, I began helping with my family’s business, Greg Galindo Plumbing. Growing up, I also watched my parents stay involved in our community. Seeing the things they did for others showed me early on how much it matters to give back and stay connected to where you come from.

I went on to spend more than 20 years in the hospitality and spa industry, including owning and operating my own esthetics and wellness business. Along the way, I became a beauty columnist for a magazine and a travel writer, which gave me the opportunity to combine my industry experience with storytelling and experience different places, people, businesses and destinations. Travel writing especially showed me the power of highlighting what makes a community special.

That work made me think differently about the Southside of San Antonio, where I was raised. I wanted to spotlight the positive stories happening in our own community and give more visibility to the people, businesses, organizations and experiences that were often overlooked. In 2020, that vision became Live From The Southside.

What began as a publication has grown into a multimedia company spanning print and digital publishing, web, newsletters, social media, radio, video and community programs. Today, I host The April Monterrosa Show on KLMO 98.9 FM and host Live From The Southside with April Monterrosa, my digital interview series, where I sit down with people whose stories, work and experiences are worth sharing.

My work today includes publishing, writing, media, speaking, emceeing, mentoring and community leadership. I’ve also created opportunities to bring people together through projects such as the Southside Book Fair and co-founding San Antonio Latina Legacy.

Community service remains an important part of my life. Through board service, civic leadership and mentorship, I continue to use what I’ve learned as an entrepreneur, publisher and media personality to open doors, connect people and help create opportunities for others.

What I Do Now

Publisher & Entrepreneur — media platforms, partnerships and community projects.   Media Personality — radio, digital interviews, television appearances and podcasts.   Author & Writer — books and writing focused on business, personal growth, travel and lifestyle.   Speaker & Emcee — keynotes, event hosting, moderating, panels and workshops.

Author

I’m the author of Shine Beautifully and the children’s book Razoo in the Wetlands. My newest book, Nobody Told Me This About Business, shares real lessons, boundaries and survival tips for building something that actually fits your life. It’s coming soon.

Recognition

My honors include the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2024 Hermana Award, a resolution from the 87th Texas Legislature, San Antonio Express-News Women in Leadership in 2025, the Express-News “20 for 26” in 2026 and KSAT 12 Influential Latina recognition. View more recognition and media →

Community & Leadership

Community involvement has been part of my work throughout my career. I currently serve in leadership and board roles with organizations including the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, The Pink Berets, Soy Latina and Brooks Gives Back, and I represent District 4 on the City of San Antonio Small Business Advisory Commission. I also serve on the Palo Alto College Cosmetology Advisory Board and stay involved through mentorship and community initiatives focused on small business, literacy and creating opportunities for others.

Work With April

I’m available for speaking, emceeing, moderating, media interviews, podcast appearances, workshops and select brand collaborations.

Contact April →