Marco Ortiz is the creator behind the wildly relatable @not_barspoontv — where bartender humor meets real talk about burnout, content creation, and bar culture. In this episode, Marco shares his unexpected path from med school hopeful to cocktail competition winner and full-time lead bartender, all while growing an online presence that connects with bartenders worldwide.

We talk about what keeps bartenders in the game, how to spot burnout before it spirals, why cocktail education needs an overhaul, and the difference between content that’s helpful vs. content that’s just for show. If you work behind the stick or run a bar program, this one’s for you.

• How Marco balances bartending full-time while growing a loyal online following
• The surprising backstory of how a cocktail comp beat out a chemistry final
• Why creators need to stop chasing algorithms and start speaking honestly
• Marco’s take on burnout — what it looks like, and how to avoid it

Follow Marco: @not_barspoontv

Say hello to Damian: sayhello@thecocktailacademy.com

Follow Damian on Instagram @welovecocktails

Support the show + access Lock-In bonus episodes: patreon.com/thecocktailacademy

Learn more: www.thecocktailacademy.com

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