We recently had the chance to connect with Gustavo Nungaray and have shared our conversation below.
Gustavo, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
Drawing helps my mind take a breather—it’s like a mini vacation from my rioting thoughts. With good music playing and a blank sheet of paper in front of me, filled with charcoal potential, I feel excited and free. Unlike running a business, there’s no risk tied to my ideas when I’m drawing. My creativity can flow without pressure, and even if I make a mistake, I can fix it within seconds—stress free. It’s in those moments that I lose track of time and reconnect with myself.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Gustavo Nungaray—entrepreneur, problem-solver, and founder of Rockie Mountain Rent a Car, based in Colorado. What started with just a few cars and a vision has grown into a dependable local rental business with over 200 trips and 100+ reviews.
What makes my work stand out is the mindset behind it. I care about every detail—from how a car is prepared to how a customer is treated. I’ve built my business through consistency, hustle, and treating people right. My goal isn’t just to rent cars—it’s to create a service people remember and recommend.
Outside of work, I find peace in working out and pushing my limits—physically and mentally. Whether it’s training, building systems, writing down new business ideas, or refining my habits, I’m always looking for ways to grow and stay sharp. Right now, I’m focused on scaling Rockie Mountain Rent a Car and setting up foundations for long-term success.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
A part of me that has served its purpose is the version of me that was obsessed with constantly working just to survive. When I moved from a small town to Denver with no plan, no connections, and no real skills to offer the job market, I was desperate to find anything that could pay the bills and fund my dreams.
My first job was at Cricket Wireless—but that wasn’t enough—so I picked up a second job delivering appliances for Home Depot. That quickly became my main hustle. My partner and I moved between 4,000 to 7,000 pounds of old and new appliances almost daily, across Denver and the surrounding areas. It was backbreaking work, but it gave me discipline, grit, and a deep appreciation for opportunity.
I’m grateful for those chapters, but I’ve outgrown the version of me that only knew how to grind. Now, I’m focused on building systems, creating value, and working with intention—not just effort. It’s time to let go of survival mode so I can fully step into purpose mode.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me to stay the course and persevere, no matter how tough things get. It showed me that not every risk is worth taking, and that big failures can shake you to your core—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. At my lowest, everything felt like it was crashing down. But looking back, I can laugh—not because the pain wasn’t real, but because I realize now that I always had a way out. I just had to lift my head and look around.
It’s okay to mess up. What matters is not letting the darkness consume you for too long. I’ve learned that suffering is part of the process. It humbles you, grounds you, and teaches you things success never could. For that, I’m truly grateful.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
This is a very interesting question, but hands down—when I first read it, I immediately thought of Gary Vaynerchuk. I say “interesting” because I’ve been listening to him since high school. His advice has always spoken to me on a deeper level. It’s practical, direct, and his perspective on business just makes sense.
One idea that’s always stuck with me is legacy over currency—and it’s something I’ve tried to implement into my own business. It’s inspiring to see someone care so much about others while running a business focused on helping as many people as possible. That kind of character is rare, and it’s why I admire him.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think people might assume I built everything on my own, but the truth is I had people who believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. My legacy isn’t about being a lone wolf—it’s about relationships, community, and lifting each other up. I hope people see that part of the story too.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://turo.com/us/en/drivers/34895182
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockie-rent-a-car-57964b289/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095201286452
