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

Hi Michele, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I was a retired empty nester gaining weight and on an emotional roller coaster. I needed a new purpose. I wanted to be of service to others and was missing the community that you develop in a work environment. I had settled in my mind that I was an entrepreneur and that wasn’t a bad thing. The community that I lived in had a car washing section and I considered having a vending machine that dispensed cleaning supplies and stumbled onto the snack and beverage machines. What better way to service my community, test out snacks that did not taste like cardboard or would not add to my sweet tooth addiction.

What should our readers know about your business?
The name UR Healthy Vendor started out with a play of the pronoun Your. It wasn’t long before I realized that U R (we are) in a position to change our health. If U R on a journey to becoming healthier and you rely on the convenience of a vending machine, but it only has traditional snacks and beverages there’s a good chance it will derail your next bite. UR Healthy Vendor will always have some options in the machine that keep you on track. I’m a believer in slow and steady wins races. Small systematic changes make big differences. We’ve collaborated with fitness professions in the past and are excited to work with local natural product entrepreneurs in the very near future.
I have to admit that the “business” aspect takes paid professional help. You can not run the business and work the business without help. I’ve left substantial money on the table going this route alone.
I lost my mother days after starting UR Healthy Vendor LLC to heart failure. Even though she isn’t here, I still want to make her proud,

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am very big on vibes so first I’d take them to Rosie’s cafe for breakfast and if you’re still in the area go to Paschal’s because of its history. Speaking of which, the Museum of Civil Rights is a definite stop. While there, the interactive counter exhibit will speak to your soul. Please make a reservation and eat at Busy Bee’s. It is the best soul food spot I’ve eaten at consistently and have never been disappointed. Depending on how much we want to spend, East Atlanta village is better than you think. Virginia Highlands has a large selection and walkability. My all time favorite Mexican is El Tesoro. Try the tamales. I can’t have Mexican and not have Caribbean Jamrock or Chef Rob’s cafe & Bar are at the top of my list. I am a New York transplant so on any given NFL Sunday anywhere NYG4LIFE ATLANTA is will be a great game day event even when the Giants lose. I guess I am an old head so live music is the way to go for me – check out Kat’s or Katch’s.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I can not take all the credit. I could not have done this without the support of my family. When sales were down or locations closed. They jumped in to physically move, pick up supplies and replenish the machines. They keep this business functioning. I want to shout out Richard, Shaun, Christian and Ruby. I can not say thank you enough. I would be remised by not saying thank you to ACE women’s business center, SBA and Score who provide help organize your business structure.

Website: urhealthyvendor.com

Instagram: urhealthyvendor

Linkedin: urhealthyvendor

Other: hourspacesatl.com, travorium.com/146257

Image Credits
itschreez by Christian McLean

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