Today we’d like to introduce you to Alondra Gaddis.
Hi Alondra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was a teacher for 9 years and I felt that it was time to try something new. Vending was honestly, a really random decision. I was looking at franchises to start, and I was told I could keep a day job while doing vending (spoiler alert: you likely cannot because most places want you to fill Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm). But, it ended up being a great decision because when my mom passed away from cancer, my dad was in a deep slump and couldn’t find a job. Doing this gave me something priceless — I get to spend every day with my daddy. He helps me out and I couldn’t have done this without him. Who wouldn’t want their coworker to be their best friend?
Because I lost my mom when I was 27, I don’t take for granted that the time we have with our loved ones is so limited. While sometimes owning a business is the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and sometimes I wonder why in the world I started this — I don’t regret it. I wouldn’t trade being with my dad for any amount of money in the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s been so hard. Business has taught me something I really wish I didn’t know — that you can’t trust everyone. I’ve been scammed by people so many times. I’m always shocked it’d happen because I think things like, “no one would lie about this” or “they seem like nice people.” Turns out I’m incredibly naive. But, there’s a good reason to still be this way. If you don’t take a chance on people, and 90% of people are good people, then you can’t grow your business. I do recommend trusting your gut, though. So many times I’ve gotten an icky feeling that I told myself is paranoia, and then I found out I was totally right. My advice is just be cautious.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been so hard. Business has taught me something I really wish I didn’t know — thar you can’t trust everyone. I’ve been scammed by people so many times, and it’s made me scared. I’m always shocked it’d happen because I think things like, “no one would lie about this” or “who would risk their job over a few candy bars”? Turns out I’m incredibly naive. But, there’s a good reason to still be this way. If you don’t take a chance on people, and 90% of people are good people, then you can’t grow your business.
We’ve been impressed with Munchie Mom and Soda Pop, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
We are the #1 rated vending machine and micromarket company here in Austin! We actually will only take on a few clients, because we want to keep it a Mom and Pop (and Grandpop!) operation. We consider ourselves “boutique,” because our goal is to customize our offering to the location’s needs. And honestly, I’m a bit of a shopaholic so I get a dopamine rush trying to find the products my customers are going to love, that they wouldn’t necessarily expect in a vending machine. Sure, you’ll find the usual things people love like Coke or Reese’s, but you might also find baby food, kombucha, or dubai chocolate, if I can get them at a reasonable price. What sets us apart is we bought the best equipment out on the market (it gives automatic refunds if something fails to drop, it has promotions, we can do meals out of them, we use AI in our smart coolers so you can grab and go), we get products no one else has, we give exceptional service and give back to the community and our locations. What I really want them to know is that when you welcome us into your family, we welcome you into ours. We learn your names and you learn ours, and we’re a partnership to give your employees and customers a pep in their step everyday.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Going to chess tournaments with my mom. No matter if I won or loss, it was always really fun. She’d call me the “Queen of the Half a Point” because I’d get draws so many times, and even when I’d lose, I was smiling and put an L on my forehead. She definitely taught me that win or lose doesn’t matter, it’s all about having a good time and enjoying the ride.
Also, my dad teaching me to ride a bike. I was covered head to toe in blood, but I was having such a fun time being with him, I would keep trying, falling, and still smiling. My parents taught me never let fear and loss and obstacles stop you from enjoying the moment.
Pricing:
- It’s free!
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.munchiemomandsodapop.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/munchiemomandsodapop
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/munchiemomandsodapop
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/munchie-mom-and-soda-pop?trk=profile-position
Image Credits
Arin Phillips
