Meet Keesha O’galdez

 

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Keesha O’galdez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Keesha, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

My Purpose:
My purpose is to support and empower others through the power of business & food.

Finding My Purpose:
Finding my purpose has been a journey shaped by my experiences, passions, and deep-rooted desire to give back.
Growing up in the Bronx,NY and navigating the challenges of being a woman in business, I’m driven to give back to communities like the one I came from. Whether it’s through creating products that promote health, women’s issues, partnering with organizations to advocate for a cause, or simply sharing the joy of good food, I’m dedicated to making a positive impact.

1. Exploration and Curiosity:
My path began with curiosity and a willingness to explore different opportunities. I’ve worked in various industries, learning valuable lessons along the way. These experiences helped me identify what I’m truly passionate about and how I could make a difference.

2. Embracing My Passions:
Food has always been my passion. I love how it brings people together and can be a powerful tool for connection and healing. Through Live Loud Foods, I’ve been able to create products that not only taste great but also support health and well-being.

3. Reflection and Alignment:
Reflecting on my journey, I realized that my purpose goes beyond just creating delicious products. It’s about using food as a way to give opportunities to others, especially those in underserved communities. I believe that food can be a vehicle for change, and I’m committed to using my platform to uplift and support organizations and individuals who are making a difference.

By staying true to my passions and focusing on how I can contribute to the greater good, I’ve found a purpose that resonates deeply with who I am and what I want to achieve.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story and the journey of Live Loud Foods! My name is Chef Keesha, and I’m the founder of Live Loud Foods, a gourmet candied nut company that celebrates bold, globally inspired flavors. As a woman-owned business based in the Bronx, our mission is to offer delicious, and adventurous snacks that elevate everyday moments.

My passion for cooking and global cuisine is at the heart of Live Loud Foods. What excites me most is the ability to bring unique, high-quality flavors to people’s lives—whether it’s through our Caribbean Jerk Nuts, which transport you to the islands with every bite, or our Candied Citrus Pistachios, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any meal. Our products are handcrafted in small batches with all-natural ingredients, making them not just flavorful, but also a conscious choice for those who care about what they eat.

One of the most special aspects of Live Loud Foods is the community we’ve built around our brand. From our customers to our retail partners, we’re all about supporting and uplifting one another. I’m particularly proud of our efforts to give back to the community through partnerships with local events and organizations, helping to promote health and well-being.

As for what’s new, we’re thrilled to be expanding our product line and reaching new audiences. We’re excited to announce upcoming collaborations, including a series of pop-up events and a special partnership with KO Cafe to celebrate the end of summer with a delicious affogato treat featuring our Candied Citrus Pistachios.

Looking ahead, we’re focused on growing our brand and continuing to bring innovative, tasty products to market. We’re also planning to expand our presence at events and in stores, making it easier for everyone to experience the bold flavors of Live Loud Foods.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Reflecting on my journey, there are three qualities and skills that have been particularly impactful in shaping the success of Live Loud Foods:

1. Willingness to Learn and Adapt:
I’ve had the privilege of working in numerous industries and in different capacities, which has allowed me to bring a cross-industry approach to my business. This diverse experience has been invaluable in navigating the constantly evolving food industry. For those early in their journey, I’d advise embracing a mindset of continuous learning and being open to change, as it often leads to unexpected opportunities.

2. Leadership and Project Management:
Leadership is not just about having a vision; it’s about executing that vision effectively. I’ve been fortunate to have both the ability to see the big picture and the skills to manage the details that bring that vision to life. This combination of strategic thinking and hands-on project management has been essential in developing and driving Live Loud Foods forward. My advice to others is to develop both aspects—having a great idea is just the beginning, but being able to execute it is what sets you apart.

3. Resourcefulness:
In any entrepreneurial journey, resourcefulness is key. Whether it’s securing funding, building a team, or finding creative solutions to challenges, the ability to make the most of what you have is invaluable. For me, being resourceful has meant not only acquiring the necessary resources but also knowing how to leverage them effectively. To those starting out, I’d suggest focusing on building strong relationships and networks—they can be just as important as financial resources.

In summary, the willingness to learn and adapt, strong leadership and project management skills, and resourcefulness have been the pillars of my success. For anyone just beginning their journey, I encourage you to cultivate these qualities and remember that persistence and creativity often make all the difference. It does take time and is not an overnight skill to develop,

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I’m always open to partnering and collaborating with individuals, businesses, and organizations that share a commitment to making a positive impact, especially in underserved communities in New York. Whether you’re a fellow entrepreneur, a nonprofit organization, or a creative looking to bring innovative ideas to life, I’m interested in collaborations that align with the values of empowerment, health, and well-being.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

* Devin Santa

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