Childhood Memories..

Growing up in the vibrant whirlwind of my mom’s tamale business, hustle wasn’t just a word—it was a way of life. From the tender age of six, I was thrust into the world of entrepreneurship, learning invaluable lessons that would shape my mindset and drive for years to come.

As the dawn painted the sky in hues of pink and gold, I would eagerly join my mom in the kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of masa and spices filling the air. With deft hands and a heart full of determination, she crafted each tamale with love and precision, infusing every fold of corn husk with a piece of her soul. It was in this kitchen sanctuary that I first witnessed the power of passion and hard work.

But it wasn’t just about the art of tamale-making; it was about the hustle that accompanied it. I watched in awe as my mom juggled orders, managed finances, and hustled to market her delicious creations to the world. She was a one-woman powerhouse, unyielding in her pursuit of success despite the odds stacked against her.

As I grew older, my role in the business expanded. What started as simple tasks like folding corn husks or delivering orders soon evolved into a full-fledged entrepreneurial endeavor. I learned the value of customer service as I greeted patrons with a warm smile and a hearty “¡Buenos días!” I honed my negotiation skills as I bartered prices at local markets, channeling my inner salesperson with each transaction.

But beyond the practical skills, my mom’s tamale business instilled in me a hustle mentality—a relentless drive to pursue my dreams with unwavering determination. I saw firsthand that success wasn’t handed to you on a silver platter; it was earned through sweat, sacrifice, and sheer grit.

Through the highs of booming business and the lows of challenging times, my mom remained steadfast in her belief that hard work was the key to unlocking endless possibilities. And so, armed with her wisdom and the indomitable spirit of an entrepreneur, I forged ahead, ready to conquer whatever challenges lay in my path.

Today, as I reflect on my journey from a six-year-old tamale apprentice to a seasoned entrepreneur, I am eternally grateful for the lessons learned in my mom’s kitchen. Her tamale business wasn’t just about food—it was a masterclass in resilience, resourcefulness, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. And though the journey may have been filled with twists and turns, one thing remains certain: the hustle mentality ingrained in me by my mom’s tamale business will continue to fuel my entrepreneurial spirit for a lifetime to come.

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