By Karlha Velásquez
Omaha, NE-Hearing about Sergio Robles in Omaha is like talking about an icon of Hispanic culture.. Originally from Guadalajara, Mexico, Sergio Martín Robles Maya, also known as El Tapatío, has earned the affection and recognition of everyone in the city. He is a proud Mexican who defends La Raza and carries a deep love for his culture and an unwavering passion for rural life and community.
In an interview with Hola Nebraska, Robles shared insights into his life and his close connection to rural traditions.
Robles is a city man, radio host, and firefighter with a rural soul (a term used in Mexico to describe people from the countryside). He is a proud defender of his cultural traditions, which he strives to expand within the Hispanic community. For him, all Spanish speakers share a common root and many similarities. For over four decades, he has served his community in multiple roles, while educating Omaha residents about preventing domestic catastrophes such as fires.
This dedication was recognized on May 3rd of 2024 when he received the “Mexicanos Distinguidos (MXDG)” award on behalf of the Government of Mexico, presented by Consul Jorge Ernesto Espejel Montes.
“We have to remember that Hispanics come from different countries and we aren’t always educated about things like smoke detectors, for example. Many accidents happen in the kitchen. I think one of the biggest impacts we’ve had in the fire department is education,” he said.
Work and Tradition
Robles inherited a deep love for rural life, horses, and charrería – a traditional equestrian practice some consider the national sport of Mexico, from his maternal family—traditions that shaped his childhood in Guadalajara. In 1987, at the age of 16, he arrived in Nebraska seeking opportunities and personal growth. Since then, he has built a life that blends his rural roots with urban dynamics, describing himself as a “rural man in the city.”
He deeply loves and respects charrería. “I don’t consider myself a complete charro because I don’t practice or master all the skills, but I’ve always loved charrería,” he said. For him, the smell of horses and manure brings him peace and a sense of closeness to his homeland.
During the Mexican Independence celebrations in Omaha, he is often seen riding his horse, proudly carrying the Mexican flag and honoring La Raza.
A Man of Many Skills
Robles describes himself as someone dedicated to his community, following his father’s advice to become a man of many skills. He has knowledge of electrical work, has worked in slaughterhouses and packing plants, and has driven trailers for a packing company.
As a radio host, he has over 20 years of experience—a career that began thanks to Rubén Madrigal, who was both his mentor and friend.
“He (Madrigal) started a Spanish-language Sunday radio program at the University of Omaha. I was interested in radio because I had an uncle who introduced me to that world. I already had some knowledge,” he said.
Robles seized the opportunity to collaborate with Madrigal, playing music on the old station 1020 AM for the program La Hora de los Grandes, which honored legendary Mexican artists. Robles recalls creating that program alongside Manuel Alférez.
Later, he was given the opportunity to join the fire department. At that point, Robles faced an internal conflict—he could either leave radio and dedicate himself fully to firefighting or pursue both. He was ultimately given the chance to start at El Patrón 102.3 FM, where he has now been active for over 20 years.
Community Dedication
Robles describes himself as a helpful person, always willing to lend a hand to those in need. He has created radio programs like Conexión con la Comunidad and La Comunidad Importa, which aim to connect Omaha’s Spanish-speaking residents.
When asked how he would like to be remembered, Sergio humbly responds: as someone who “took off his jacket to protect someone who was cold.” His life has been marked by a desire to help and protect those in need, from his family to his community.
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