We had the good fortune of connecting with Candy McBride and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Candy, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Initially, the challenge was in trying to excel at everything simultaneously, which often led to burnout. I wanted to be the best educator, an innovative entrepreneur, and a present, nurturing mother. However, I soon realized that aiming for perfection in every aspect was unrealistic and counterproductive.

Over time, I’ve learned to prioritize and accept that some days one role may take precedence over others. For instance, there might be days where my focus is more on my children’s needs, and on other days, my entrepreneurial or educational responsibilities take the lead.

Thinking about balance now, I view it more as a fluid concept rather than a rigid goal. It’s about making conscious choices each day and being flexible.

What should our readers know about your business?
As the Executive Director of #GYMKITTY, a health and wellness company now partnering with Vitacost, a subsidiary of Kroger’s, I’m excited to share our journey. Our specialty lies in creating vitamins and supplements specifically designed for active moms. We stand out in the market by focusing on the unique health needs of mothers who balance fitness and family life.

Our journey was challenging. The health and wellness industry is competitive, and establishing a niche for active moms required us to overcome hurdles in product development and brand recognition. We surmounted these by listening closely to our customers, fostering a community around our brand, and maintaining high-quality standards.

The key lessons from our journey are the importance of understanding customer needs, adaptability, and integrity in product quality. #GYMKITTY is more than a brand; it’s a movement dedicated to empowering mothers in their health and wellness journey. Our partnership with Vitacost is a significant step in expanding our reach and impact, reaffirming our commitment to the wellness of active moms everywhere.

I want the world to know that #GYMKITTY is more than just a brand; it’s a movement. It’s about empowering mothers to take control of their health and wellness, to feel strong, energized, and confident. Our story is about resilience, understanding our customer’s needs, and the relentless pursuit of providing the best health supplements for active moms. As we continue our partnership with Vitacost and expand our reach, our commitment to our customers and their health remains our top priority.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Embarking on a week-long adventure in Atlanta, GA, with my best friend, I’d make sure they soak in the city’s rich culture, history, and culinary delights. We’d kick off our visit in Downtown, starting with a breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Café, renowned for its southern-style biscuits. The day would include visits to the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola, followed by a traditional Southern dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room with the Knotty Guy and a leisurely stroll through Centennial Olympic Park.

The next day, after breakfast at Ria’s Bluebird, we’d delve into history at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and the Atlanta History Center. In the evening, we’d savor contemporary Southern dishes at South City Kitchen and explore the lively Buckhead district’s nightlife.

Day three would be dedicated to arts and culture, beginning with brunch at Café Intermezzo. We’d then immerse ourselves in the artistic splendors of the High Museum of Art, and take a guided tour of the iconic Fox Theatre. The day would conclude with a memorable meal at The Vortex, celebrated for its eclectic ambiance.

This itinerary offers a blend of Atlanta’s dynamic history, arts, and culinary scene, ensuring a memorable experience for my best friend.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My journey as a health and wellness mom-preneur, and a full-time educator has been profoundly influenced by my faith, family, and friends. My faith has been the bedrock of my resilience, offering me inner strength, purpose, and the courage to pursue my dreams. It has instilled in me a sense of direction and a calmness essential for facing life’s challenges.
My family have been a constant source of love, support, and wisdom. They have helped me navigate the complexities of balancing a demanding career with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood.
Lastly, my friends have been invaluable in this journey. Their shared experiences as entrepreneurs and parents have provided not only empathy but also practical advice and emotional support. Their unwavering belief in me and their readiness to cheer me on have been a source of immense encouragement. This shoutout is a heartfelt recognition of these vital pillars in my life – my faith, family, and friends – who have collectively contributed to where I am today and deserve equal credit for my achievements.

Website: www.gymkitty.net

Instagram: gymkittyofficial & caramelcan

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candy-mcbride-mba-45a6a5214/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gymkittyofficial/

Other: https://www.vitacost.com/gymkitty https://www.amazon.com/stores/GYMKITTY/page/49242019-70C4-4D3C-902F-9F70764FEDBC?ref_=ast_bln https://www.walmart.com/search?q=%23GYMKITTY&facet=brand:%23GYMKITTY

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