We recently had the chance to connect with Karina Vazcones and have shared our conversation below.
Karina, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity is everything, both in business and in life. It’s what builds real trust with people and sets the tone for long-term success. I think being reliable and staying true to your values matter in every situation. I want the people I work with, and my customers, to know that they can count on me and that I take what I do seriously.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Karina Vazcones, I was raised in Southeast San Diego. I am a proud chicana and cannabis entrepreneur that worked in the cannabis industry for nearly 10 years. In 2020, during the pandemic, I created DROTERIA as a tool to educate people on cannabis strains while I was working as a budtender. I am often asked how I came up with the name for my game DROTERIA. When I was younger, my friends and I referred to cannabis as “dro,” short for hydroponic weed. So I shortened the word “hydroponic” and combined it with “loteria”. Earlier this year, a good friend of mine, Teal, who works for turn (a vape cartridge brand), asked that I work with the brand to bring a fun experience to Sessions by the Bay. So I created a special edition game set with the brand, DROTERIA x turn. It was so exciting to host and play my game at the first cannabis lounge in San Diego. I was also presented the opportunity to host game night at The Activist Kitchen, a creative space in Hollywood, Ca. It was a fun night that included stand-up comedy by local comedians, open mic karaoke and giveaways. I want people everywhere to experience fun game nights with my family and friends while simultaneously learning about cannabis. I am currently working on more fun merchandise that blends my love for cannabis and the chicano culture.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who taught you the most about work?
My grandmother has taught me more about work than anyone else. My mami Queta has been a street vendor for as long as I can remember. She used to sell snacks like tostilokos, tortas, and raspados at the park while I played on my soccer team. Watching her work so hard every day really shaped how I see hustle and dedication. When I was in middle school, she’d take me to the dulcería so I could buy candy to sell to my classmates, that was her way of teaching me independence and the value of earning my own money. She’s the reason I have such a strong drive to be a successful entrepreneur today.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell myself, “Thank you.” Thank you for hanging in there and remaining optimistic when life got hard and it seemed like everything was falling apart. Thank you for being strong and choosing hope over despair. I’ve experienced many traumas but still managed to navigate my own journey and heal to discover my purpose. I am not what I experienced.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
Familismo, a strong loyalty to my family. I have a strong sense of duty to support and care for my loved ones. They are my safety net and are always there to support me even when we are not seeing eye to eye. I can always count on them, they are just one call away. I often prioritize their needs before my own. Being the eldest sister and eldest granddaughter, I feel it is my responsibility to protect and ensure their well-being.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I am in the kitchen. I love to cook. I enjoy spending hours in the kitchen perfecting and creating my own recipes. As a child, I loved watching my grandma cook and being the first one to try everything she made before she served the rest family to eat. It’s like a magical process that makes me feel connected to my ancestors. Recipes and traditions that have been passed down though out generations. Through my hands, I share those traditions with others. Cooking is one of my love languages. If I cook for you, I love you.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @droteriabyogkari
- Facebook: Karina Vazcones
