Exploring Life & Business with Carissa (Riss) McCullough of Just Juice’n with Riss LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carissa (Riss) McCullough.

Hi Carissa (Riss) , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In a world where fast food and junk options dominated my neighborhood, I found myself trapped in a cycle of unhealthy eating. Growing up, my family’s culinary habits were passed down through generations, and healthier choices seemed out of reach. It wasn’t just a lack of awareness; it was the affordability and convenience of unhealthy food that led me to struggle with my weight for years.

I decided enough was enough. I began incorporating small exercises into my routine and dove deep into learning about nutrition. It was during this exploration that I stumbled upon the vibrant world of juicing. I discovered how nutrient-packed juices could transform my health, improve my mood, and even change my skin. Through dedication and passion, I lost 80 pounds, and soon my friends and family were curious about the delicious juices I was creating.

Fueled by their enthusiasm, I began sharing my juices with them, excited to spread the message that healthy food can heal. This passion ignited a spark in me, and in 2021, I launched my juice business, focusing on fresh, cold-pressed juices. I immersed myself in the experience, participating in pop-up events and engaging with my community.

However, life took a turn when I became a mom in 2023. My priorities shifted, and I paused my business to focus on my son and husband. Even during this time, my love for juicing never waned. I continued creating content and experimenting with recipes, keeping the essence of my business alive in my heart.

Now, in April 2024, I am thrilled to relaunch my business, shipping juices nationwide and planning pop-up shops. My dream is to create a juice truck that serves neighborhoods where access to healthy options is limited—where children can experience fresh juices instead of sugary alternatives. I am on a mission to heal and empower Black and brown bodies with the understanding that food is medicine.

Through all the challenges and triumphs, my journey has been a blessing. With God’s grace, I continue to share my story and my juices, helping others discover the healing power of nutrition. This is not just a business; it’s a movement to change lives, one juice at a time.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Starting my business has been a journey filled with ups and downs. Balancing a full-time job while launching my business was challenging, and becoming a mom added another layer of complexity. While motherhood is my greatest blessing and priority, I’ve learned to adjust and find a balance between parenting and running my business.

I also faced challenges in reaching communities that may not be aware of the healing power of food. Sometimes there is resistance, but I’ve found that open conversations help foster understanding and receptiveness. Although I anticipate more challenges ahead, I’m committed to handling them with grace and determination, believing that every problem has a solution.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business was born out of a deep passion for healing through food rather than just a desire for financial success. I aim to serve my body, my family, and my community by promoting the benefits of fresh, cold-pressed juices. With a background in holistic health, I specialize in nutrition and understand how to use various fruits and vegetables to address specific health conditions.

What sets me apart from other juice companies is my commitment to healing Black and brown bodies in underserved communities. As a full-time mom and wife, my journey towards self-healing mirrors that of my customers, and I openly share my experiences on social media, particularly how I’ve healed after childbirth.

I am proud that at the core of my brand is a Christian foundation, emphasizing that our bodies are temples meant to be well-nourished. I take pride in having built my business from scratch. I offer a variety of juice cleanses—weight loss, beauty, and immunity cleanses—as well as individual juices that can easily be incorporated into daily meals. Beyond selling juices, I strive to foster a supportive community, always ready to answer questions and assist others on their wellness journeys, regardless of their readiness to purchase.

We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
Driven by faith and purpose, I believe my business is not the result of luck, but a reflection of God’s will for my life. With confidence in what’s ahead, I embrace both opportunities and challenges with peace, knowing that more doors are opening and greater things are on the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.justjuicen.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_juicen
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1MomvsEMAd/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@justjuicenriss
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@justjuicenriss
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/justjuicenriss

Image Credits
Juice bottled photos Credit to milehighclubworldwide by Moises Banuelos