Rising Stars: Meet Jeromy Marcano-González

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Jeromy Marcano-González.

Hi Jeromy, can you introduce yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and like many Latin families, food is a significant part of our lives. My favorite memories growing up were helping my abuela in the kitchen during family gatherings. From those intimate moments, my love for food began.

As a teen, I was determined to attend culinary school in Puerto Rico, but my parents were concerned that a career as a chef would be a waste of time as the pay rate on the island was terrible. They encouraged me to choose another path to earn a better income. Following their advice, I majored in Environmental Engineering at the Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico.

After Hurricanes Irma and Maria passed in 2017, leaving the island without power and water for months, my mother and I were forced to move to Atlanta, Georgia. As I started my new life in the United States, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to focus on what I always wanted to do. I redirected my path and attended Georgia State University for Hospitality Administration, where I specialized in food and beverage.

Although I love the industry, one thing that has always bothered me was the sacrifices that came with it. You often work long shifts and miss important moments and holidays with your friends and family. As someone with an entrepreneurial mindset, I knew I could take my passion for the industry and turn it into a business.

In 2022, I took my first steps into my entrepreneurial journey by signing up for a blogging boot camp by Jannese Torres-Rodriguez from the Yo Quiero Dinero Podcast. Watching her and other creators be successful and live flexible and fulfilling lives motivated me to do this–now or never! In March of 2023, I started making short-form videos on Instagram and TikTok and began blogging.

Almost a year later, I proudly say I’m still going at it and love what I do. Although I’m figuring things out as I go, I’m determined not to give up because this has always been bigger than me. I don’t do this for myself. I do this to create a life where I can live freely, support my family, and build a legacy for my future family.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road at all! I would say my biggest struggle was overcoming my fear of many things. I mainly fear things not working out and thinking I would waste my time. I also fear that I was letting my parents down when I decided to pursue a career in Hospitality instead of Engineering.

Fear of letting them down AGAIN when I decided to stop pursuing going up the leadership ladder and start creating content instead. Thankfully, I overcame all that fear, and now they’re both my biggest fans!

Currently, it’s hard balancing working full-time and trying to build your business on the side while still having a social life, a healthy lifestyle, etc. But you know, I’m enjoying it because I know I’m building my dream life little by little.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a food & beverage content creator specializing in Latin-influenced recipes. Additionally, you can find me making delicious craft cocktails at Saltwood Charcuterie & Bar at the Loews Atlanta Hotel in Midtown, Atlanta.

I am proud of the resilience I’ve built and all the fears I’ve overcome throughout this journey. One big thing that sets me apart is my energy and charisma. I love meeting new people and making meaningful connections with others.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Many people don’t know that I used to be on a salsa dancing team in Puerto Rico and had the opportunity to perform at exhibitions throughout the island.

Contact Info:

• Website: tropibites.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tropibites/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553595809610
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@tropibites?_t=8kHBDUDQmA2&_r=1