Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in food and beverage but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Zeidenweber, Founder of Mama Muncheez, located in Delray Beach, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My name is Stephanie Kavana, and I am a children's health coach. I created Mama Muncheez when my girls were younger and in preschool. I was sending them lunch every day, and I would always try to include a wide variety and proportional servings of protein, carbs, fruits, vegetables, and a dessert surprise daily. The preschool teachers began commenting on my kid's lunchboxes. They were eating their leftovers, exclaiming how they loved what I sent, and asking me for recipes. Mothers at this popular Boca Raton preschool overheard and began stopping me in the parking lot, asking me to send them pictures for lunchbox inspiration. Some women were in tears, frustrated with their children's pickiness. Exhausted with the endless willful control battles with their toddlers. It started with a group text messaging thread. Every morning I'd send a pic of their food. Teachers, parents, and even some kids who packed their own lunches began having ideas for their own meals. It grew from there. 300, 500, and 700 followers. I put up my salmon recipe and received five texts from different people I knew, raving about my recipe- the ease of it, the success within their family unit. People were eating healthier by following my guidelines- their kids liked my meals. I have a very high success rate of getting people's kids to eat at my house. Call it a natural ability!
Tell us about yourself
I struggled with my weight growing up. I wasn't obese, but I was made to feel that way. I went through some bullying and a lot of negative body imagery. I have been the hottest person in the room in my life, as well as the chubbiest. I've experienced all the ups and downs of this devastating weight loss journey. I ended up with long-COVID and a few chronic health issues. I believe that if we start early, help kids take care of themselves, and make the right choices; we can save their health and increase their overall quality of life and longevity in the long run.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is independence. I raised my kids practically on my own as my husband (a busy pediatric cardiologist) built his practice and tended to everyone else's children around our area. I was a full-time mom for 13 years- dedicated every second of my day to my kids. In the end, I felt very dependent- I wanted to teach them more. How to really protect themselves. How to not depend on anyone, so for me, my biggest accomplishment is making my own money in a field I've always inherently loved.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
For me, the negativity. The influx of too many opinions. The "haters and trolls" on social media. I am sensitive and haven't perfected the art of thick skin. I need to grow it out more!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be true to yourself. Never sway from what you believe in.
- DO IT. Life will always be able to give you excuses. There is NOTHING like freedom and independence.
- When you fall, get back up again! Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephzeidenweber
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamamuncheez/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-zeidenweber-4a24a218/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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