Bernice Burgos Reveals Money-Making Secrets from Bartending Days on the Joe Budden Podcast

Bernice Burgos recently joined the Joe Budden Podcast, where the social media star and entrepreneur shared how she maximized her earnings as a bartender at Starlets in New York City. The former “startender” revealed that she was raking in impressive sums—up to $30,000 on a typical night and as much as $70,000 on special occasions, like her birthday.

The 44-year-old influencer emphasized that her success behind the bar was more than just luck. According to Bernice, her success came from “playing chess, not checkers” when it came to connecting with her customers. She explained that she built “real relationships” with her clientele and had strategic moves to keep them coming back. One such tactic involved giving discounts on bottle prices. “I make sure I give you the bottles for $250 when they cost $350,” she shared, adding that she knew how to secure generous tips later on.

Bernice also disclosed that she always had an exit plan, working just three years to save up and pursue her dreams outside the club. With her savings, she launched her successful sleepwear line, Bold & Beautiful, bought a house, and left bartending to focus on her business full-time.

Since then, Bernice has expanded her brand through lucrative partnerships and, alongside her daughter Ashley, stars on the BET+ reality show The Impact: New York.

Watch a clip of Bernice Burgos sharing her money-making journey above.