Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlos Rodriguez.
Hi Carlos, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Frosty Brothers started in 2018 as a simple side job. My kids encouraged me to try something of my own, and we thought an ice cream truck would be a fun way to bring in extra income while doing work I could actually enjoy. We began selling raspas and snacks in the San Antonio heat, and little by little, the business grew.
From day one, our goal was to offer great snacks at a reasonable price and bring back that classic paletero-style memory — the excitement of hearing the ice cream man on a hot summer day. We wanted families to feel that same joy through our shaved ice, fruit snacks, nachos, and classic treats, all made with good products and a lot of love.
As time went on, my daughter Rocio and my son Carlos Jr. joined me, and Frosty Brothers evolved from a side hustle into our full family business. Today, we work together to serve neighborhoods, schools, and local companies across San Antonio.
For us, Frosty Brothers isn’t just a truck — it’s something we built as a family and something we’re proud to continue growing.
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?
Not always. Like many small family businesses, we had to learn everything from permits to pricing to managing a food truck. Social media and marketing were new to us too, and figuring out how to get the word out sometimes felt overwhelming. There were moments where things seemed too hard or we were unsure if something would work — but we kept trying, kept learning, and kept growing.
We also juggled the business while working regular jobs, handled equipment issues, and pushed through slow seasons. But working as a family helped us stay focused and move forward. Every challenge taught us something, and those lessons have helped Frosty Brothers get stronger year after year.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Frosty Brothers, we specialize in ice creams, raspas, and paletero-style snacks made with high-quality ingredients and a lot of love. What we’re known for is giving people the classic “ice cream man” experience — that same excitement you felt as a kid when the paletero showed up on a hot day. We focus on fair prices, great service, and treats that taste just as good as you remember.
We serve neighborhoods, schools, offices, daycares, apartments, and corporate events all across San Antonio. Over time, we’ve built a reputation for being reliable, friendly, and consistent. People know that when Frosty Brothers shows up, they’re going to get good products and a great experience.
What I’m most proud of is that this business became something we built together as a family. It started as a small side job, and now it’s our full business — something my kids and I run as a team. That’s what sets us apart: we’re truly family-owned, family-operated, and we put our heart into every event.
We’re not trying to be fancy. We just want to make good snacks, bring joy to people, and keep growing little by little.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I learned at a young age that sometimes you have to take risks if you want to grow. When you come from a place where opportunities are limited, you learn to work hard, be resourceful, and take chances when they appear. That mindset stayed with me throughout my life.
Starting Frosty Brothers was one of the biggest risks we ever took. My family and I put in our savings and part of our 401(k) to buy the truck and equipment. We didn’t know exactly how it would turn out, but we believed in the chance to build something of our own.
The early years were tough — cold seasons, extreme heat, and a lot of our income going straight toward paying off the mobile unit and expenses. There were times when we were working long days without seeing much profit. But sometimes that’s what risk looks like: putting in the effort first and trusting that the results will follow.
For me, risk isn’t about being fearless. It’s about believing in yourself, staying committed, and pushing through the hard moments to build something better for your family. Taking that chance has allowed us to grow Frosty Brothers into the business it is today.
Looking back, it was worth it — that risk gave us independence, purpose, and a business we’re proud to run together as a family.
Pricing:
- Most of our products range from $1–$6, keeping our menu family-friendly and affordable
- All prices are clearly listed outside our truck so customers always know exactly what they’re buying
- $50 non-refundable booking fee (reserves your date; does not go toward the total)
- $200 minimum in product sales for a 2-hour event
- Open menu available (guests can choose anything — raspas, sundaes, snacks, etc.) Ticket-based options for offices or events wanting a set spending limit
Contact Info:
- Website: https://frostybrothers.com/
- Instagram: /frostybrothers.sa
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frostybrothersSA
- Other: https://share.google/V1igcgMx7SYW07k3b
