Meet Rhuneisha Fields Richardson

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rhuneisha Fields Richardson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rhuneisha, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, it wasn’t about “starting a business” at first — it was about surrendering to what God had already placed inside of me. I’ve always been a creative thinker, an encourager, and someone who sees purpose in people and in moments that others might overlook. But for a long time, I tried to fit into traditional boxes — stable careers, predictable paths, defined roles.

Eventually, I realized I wasn’t built to just fit in — I was called to stand out and build out. Entrepreneurship wasn’t just a career move for me. It was a response to an assignment. God kept nudging me to create. And not just during the day — I mean in the middle of the night, literally. The Holy Spirit would wake me up at crazy hours with visions for T-shirt designs, messaging, and concepts. I didn’t know graphic design at the time, and honestly, I was telling myself all kinds of lies like, “I’m not techie enough” or “I don’t know how to graphic design.” But the designs kept coming.

Then one Sunday, I heard my pastor say, “If the CEO of the universe makes the time to meet with you, the least you can do is take notes.” That hit me. So I grabbed one of those little event freebie notebooks, kept it by my bed, and when those ideas would come in the dark, I’d scribble them down half-sleep, trusting that if God was speaking, I needed to listen.

Those scribbles — messy, unpolished, raw — became the early templates for what is now Defining You Apparel. What started as a restless nudge became a brand rooted in purpose. I didn’t launch just to make a living — I launched to make an impact. To give light to others while honoring the Light that’s within me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am not standard. That’s the best way I can describe what sets me and my art apart. It’s not just the work I do — it’s the story behind it, the legacy in it, and the oil on it.

I’m a country girl from Ocala, Florida, who left home to attend my father’s alma mater — Florida A&M University — because I’m a daddy’s girl through and through, and I’ve always wanted to make him proud. I started out as a nursing major, but quickly realized that what pulled at my heart more deeply was the impact of nutrition. So I shifted into Agricultural Science with a focus on Food Science.

Losing 3 of my four grandparents before graduation and watching my mother face ongoing health challenges stirred something deeper in me. I didn’t just want to help people feel better — I wanted to help break generational cycles tied to food-related illness, and really, anything else shackling people to a less-than experience. From that burden, Urban Gourmet by Rhu was born — my way of remixing our family’s beloved soul food with intention and nourishment, preserving the flavor while protecting our bodies.

And that’s just one lane.

In college, I also managed a plus-size specialty store, where I first noticed how often people dress according to their insecurities. That experience birthed my work as a wardrobe stylist — first through my own styling business, then in Atlanta’s entertainment industry, where I supported artists, celebrities, and everyday people in showing up as their boldest, truest selves. My eye for fashion, my modeling background, and even the nickname “Diva Roni” (inspired by Bobby Brown’s Tenderoni) all helped shape the creative force I am today. I’ve always had the gift of vision — whether in clothes, color, or calling.

I’ve been a chameleon my entire life — not in a way that blends in, but in a way that flows, adapts, and expresses. I’m a scientist, too — someone who researches deeply, learns quickly, and thrives on understanding how things work. I’ve always used both sides of my brain, fluidly and fully. The surrender just gave me the courage to show up in all the ways God called me to — even when that didn’t fit a traditional mold.

As a child, I loved art. But growing up, “starving” always came before the word “artist,” so I boxed that part of myself in. Even still, creativity pulsed through me — in my hair, my wardrobe, my words. And now, in the freedom of obedience, I’ve returned to what’s always been there.

Today, I hand-paint Carry and Shine Hope Totes, speak life through the Defining You blog, write devotionals, and pour truth and beauty into every product, brand, and message I release. Whether it’s Mane & Might, my self-care line for men; Marked by Rhu Rich, my upcoming fashion line for women; or my podcast It’s Just a Lil Bit of Turbulence — everything I do is an outflow of my yes to God.

And that’s the real answer: I’m just someone who told God yes.

My gifts are diverse. My journey has had twists and turns. But when God breathes on it, it all makes sense. I graduated from Charis Bible College in 2020, and now I use my voice, my art, and my whole being to help others see themselves the way God does: bold, seen, defined, and deeply loved.

No — the road hasn’t been easy. But it’s been anointed. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The Zona’ Experience: A Week-Long Itinerary for Visiting Arizona with Me

When I have friends or family come visit, I always say you can’t just come to Arizona — you’ve got to get the Zona experience. That means good views, good vibes, and of course… good food. Every pocket of the Valley has its own personality, and I like to give people a taste of that variety — literally and culturally. Here’s what a week with me might look like:

Day 1 – Welcome to the Valley
We’re kicking things off in Old Town Scottsdale with brunch at my favorite spot: Daily Dose. It’s casual, welcoming, and so dang good. Order the breakfast nachos and the cinnamon roll pancakes — trust me, we’re sharing both. Wash it down with a mimosa, and we’re off to a great start.

After brunch, we’ll explore the artsy corners of Scottsdale, stroll through local shops, and maybe even catch a sunset from one of the scenic overlooks.

Day 2 – Mesa: Heart + Hustle
We’re heading to Downtown Mesa, where there’s a sweet, small-town charm and creative spirit in the air. First stop? Cider Corps — a local cidery with serious flavor and community roots. Inside you’ll find Mike’s Pizza, owned by a passionate small business owner I’ve watched grow from folding dough out of Tupperware in the parking lot to running his own kitchen. It’s full-circle and full-flavor.

Then comes the real decision of the day — and we’ll settle it like grown-ups: rock, paper, scissors. Winner gets to choose if we’re grabbing a sandwich from Worth Takeaway (you’ll dream about that chicken sandwich later) or getting some spicy, juicy fried chicken from Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. Either way, your taste buds win.

Day 3 – Dessert + Street Art + Self-Expression
We’re making our way to Novel Ice Cream in Phoenix, and I already know what I’m ordering: a Dough Melt with Fat Elvis ice cream, topped with either cookie crumbs or Cinnamon Toast Crunch. It may sound wild, but it is life-changing. A warm glazed donut + artisanal ice cream = unforgettable.

Since we’re already in that part of the Valley, Day 3 is dedicated to the art that lives and breathes on the walls of Phoenix. This city’s street art scene is easily one of my favorites anywhere I’ve been. We’ll take a drive-thru tour of downtown where the buildings double as canvases, telling stories through every bold color and brushstroke.

Some of it is creative. Some of it’s political. And some… well, let’s just say the artist might’ve had a little extracurricular inspiration. 😅 But I love it all. As an artist myself, I deeply value what it takes to express something so boldly in public space — and Phoenix does that beautifully. From tucked-away alleys to wide open walls, this is the kind of creativity you must praise Anna appreciate.

Day 4 – A Southern Girl’s BBQ Dreams
It wouldn’t be a Zona visit without some serious comfort food. So we’re heading to Little Miss BBQ — preferably the Sunnyslope location for best access to the brisket. Get there early because they will sell out. Add a side of grits, beans, and that tangy house sauce, and don’t plan on moving much afterward.

Day 5 – Tacos + Nostalgia: The Prince Mural

This day is special. We’ll visit one of my favorite murals in the city — The Prince Mural in Phoenix. It’s more than a piece of art. It’s a personal heart tugger.

It takes me back to Friday nights with my family — my dad playing records, us dancing and harmonizing to Prince, Michael Jackson, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gladys Knight, The O’Jays… It’s joy and legacy wrapped up in vinyl and memory. That mural connects me to my roots — and brings a little piece of home closer. And what is a trip to Arizona without a taco run?! Just Tacos or Taco Chiwas kept me in a chokehold for years. It’s only right to share the addiction.

Day 6 – Church + Clarity
If it’s Sunday, there’s one place we have to be: Faith Christian Center (26th & McDowell). This is my church, my soul’s home, and the place that makes Sunday my favorite day of the week.

There’s something undeniable about the presence of God in that building — the way He reads your heart and meets your need. From the moment you step on the grounds, you’re surrounded by love and grace. It’s not just a service. It’s an encounter. No one visits me without experiencing that.

Day 7 – Chill, Reflect, Revisit Leftovers
We slow it down and let the week soak in eating on leftovers. Because let’s be real, after all of that, the styrofoam in the fridge is calling for rescuing.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are countless people who have poured into me over the years—some through direct encouragement, others by simply holding up a mirror of truth when I couldn’t see clearly on my own. Each of them helped me stand—sometimes shaky, but always standing—with the kind of boldness this life and assignment requires. But at the core of it all, I owe everything to the intentionality, prayers, and foundation laid by my parents, Andrew and Charlene Hodges. Their love, values, and belief in me shaped so much of who I am.

And then there’s my grandmother—the late but forever great Reverend Doris Fields Andrews—whose life continues to inspire me beyond words. She was the embodiment of grace, authenticity, and conviction, and the legacy she left still whispers courage to me when I need it most. This journey, this bold walk of purpose, is deeply rooted in the seeds she and my parents sowed.

Website: https://definingyoubyhisview.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifewithrhu?igsh=MW1lcGJvMzhoaWRkbA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhuneisha-fields-richardson-59033b5a?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZN9iaZQRc/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lifewithrhu?si=xC0DBvgQmeLIK2Ty

Other: Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/17SB2ruQExrqHmfKqneN4q?si=1jrJaD_UQhumpDULvkUIqA

Image Credits
Photography by Richer Moments Photography, Frank Richardson