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"José dos iPhones": From Teen Hustler to Texas CEO with a Global Mission

“Portugal is a small country with a gigantic heart. That’s special — and that’s why you see Portuguese making it happen all over the world.” With these words, José Costa Rodrigues captures the essence of his journey — one that began with reselling iPhones in his teens and now finds him at the helm of Relive, a rising real estate agency in the U.S., where he's CEO and co-founder.

Nicknamed "José dos iPhones", his entrepreneurial spirit took shape early, leading to the launch of his first startup, Forall Phones, which was acquired in 2020. Today, based in Texas, José hasn't let go of his roots. His ambition goes beyond business — it's about elevating Portuguese talent and innovation onto the global stage.

In a recent episode of a podcast series hosted by Tony Evora, founder of The Evrose Group, José shares his bold story — one that blends hustle, heritage, and heart. Tony, a champion of Portuguese entrepreneurship, created the series to spotlight leaders, visionaries, and creators who carry Portugal with them, wherever they go.

The show dives deep into the global footprint of Portuguese culture, exploring how it shapes values, work ethic, and a unique kind of quiet resilience. Through candid conversations, guests reveal how they’re blending tradition with transformation — from building international businesses to spreading Portuguese influence in art, tech, and community.

It’s not just a podcast. It’s a celebration of the Portuguese spirit — proud, passionate, and always pushing forward.