Johany Torres shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Johany , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: When was the last time you felt true joy?
The last time I experienced pure joy was during our trip to Puerto Rico this summer with my husband and kids. Watching them explore the house where my dad grew up and where I spent my summers was a moment I’ll cherish forever. Their faces lit up with excitement, and it felt surreal to share my dad’s childhood home with them. It was their first visit, and the memories we created there will stay with me always.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, I’m Johany Torres, the proud owner of Jo’s Cakes. My passion lies in crafting edible art, from show stopping cakes to spooky treats and even unique Jelly Shots. Recently, I made the decision to pause taking cake orders and shift my focus toward creating engaging content for amazing brands like Disney Pixar, Duncan Hines, Ninja, and Seagram’s Escapes.
This new chapter in my career has allowed me to work at a more leisurely pace, giving me the opportunity to spend quality time with my family, travel all while still engaging in creative projects with renowned brands. It truly feels like a dream job, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me!
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful dates back to my 20s when I was determined and ready to tackle any challenge. I spent nearly a decade working as a nurse’s aide in a hospital, where the long hours and demanding environment often took their toll. On my last day before going on maternity leave, my department surprised me with a baby shower, which I was excited to celebrate.
However, that day took an unexpected turn when I arrived at work only to be informed that I was being reassigned to another floor due to staffing shortages. Instead of enjoying a laid-back day with my coworkers, I found myself overwhelmed, rushing around, and dealing with contractions. I was 9months pregnant, I worked until I literally couldn’t anymore. It was disheartening to see that, despite the occasion, management prioritized staffing over my well-being.
As most of my coworkers left for the day, I was left to take my gifts and cake home without the chance to truly enjoy the celebration or express my gratitude. That experience was a wake-up call. I realized that the management didn’t value their staff as they should have. The following day I let my manager know what they did was not ok and resigned. I vowed never to work for someone who didn’t genuinely care for their employees. I decided I would become my own boss and invest in myself, a decision that has empowered me ever since.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could share one kind message with my younger self, it would be to listen to your inner voice more and trust your instincts. It’s okay if your decisions aren’t right; you’ll only discover what works for you through trial and error. Embrace your mistakes, as they are essential for your growth. Remember, the path to success often involves setbacks.
I spent too much time seeking advice from others who weren’t truly pursuing their own dreams, and I tried to please everyone around me. But that approach doesn’t lead to fulfillment. Prioritize your happiness and follow your passions, even if it means disappointing some people along the way. Your journey is yours to shape, so make it count!
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I fiercely protect is the importance of hard work. As a Latina, I believe in putting in the effort and dedication to achieve my goals, often feeling the need to work twice as hard to secure opportunities. I also value resilience—staying strong and not allowing my emotions to dictate my actions. This commitment to hard work and perseverance is deeply rooted in my identity and drives me to overcome challenges and pursue my dreams relentlessly.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I knew I had only ten years left, I would stop working so much immediately lol. As much as I love what I do, I would prioritize spending every moment with my husband and kids, traveling, and creating memories together. To me, family is more important than anything else in my life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @joacakes_
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