Houston – It’s Women’s History Month, and Houston Life is spotlighting a woman whose story goes far beyond food and wine.
June Rodil is the CEO and partner of Goodnight Hospitality, the team behind some of the city’s most celebrated dining destinations, including March, Rosie Cannonball, Montrose Cheese & Wine, and The Marigold Club. But behind the accolades and acclaim is a journey rooted in sacrifice and family.
Rodil was born in the Philippines and moved to the United States as a child, following a path her mother carved years before.
“She was responsible for making sure our family survived,” Rodil shared. “I didn’t really even know her until she was able to bring me to the States for a better life.”
Her mother, a nurse, left everything behind to build a future for her family. That decision, while difficult, became the foundation for everything that followed. Rodil describes her as a constant source of inspiration, someone who carried the weight of an entire family’s hopes while still managing to push forward.
That example shaped Rodil’s mindset early on.
“When failure isn’t an option, you don’t really take time to celebrate success. It’s just survival,” she said.
That same determination would carry her through one of the most demanding achievements in the hospitality industry. Rodil is now one of only a small number of female Master Sommeliers in the Americas, a title that requires years of study, discipline, and perseverance.
“I liken it to getting a doctoral degree,” she said. “You’re working long days and then studying in your free time. It’s a very daunting process.”
Today, Rodil is helping shape Houston’s dining scene while also building something bigger than herself. Through her work, she hopes to change how people view careers in hospitality and create opportunities for others to grow within the industry.
“I hope to build a legacy where people can be proud to be in this industry for the longevity of it all,” she said.
But her impact doesn’t stop there.
For Rodil, success is also about creating space for other women to rise.
“You’ve got to find a table that’s big enough for you,” she said. “And if you can’t find it, you have to build it yourself. Not just for you, but for the future.”
It’s a message that resonates, especially during Women’s History Month. Her story is a reminder that success doesn’t follow one path, and that sometimes, it takes courage to create your own.
And while her journey has been defined by hard work and perseverance, she hasn’t lost sight of enjoying the moment.
Her advice?
“Drink more sparkling wine,” she said with a smile. “People save it for celebrations, but you can celebrate every day.”