VIBEcast

From Corporate Careers to Business Ownership: Andy's Naturals2Go Success Story

After years in the corporate world, Andy and his wife decided they wanted something different—more flexibility, more control, and the opportunity to build something of their own. In this episode, Andy shares how they made the leap into business ownership, the confidence they gained through training and support, and why owner-led locating became a key driver of their success.From securing locations and building customer relationships to creating a business with no ceiling on growth, Andy's story is an inspiring reminder that you don't need to have everything figured out before you begin. Sometimes all you need is the willingness to take the first step.

Exponential Growth with this Vending Entrepreneur

In this episode we sit down with Naturals2Go owner operator Kory Cernik, who went from frustrated “glorified manager” to running big vending sites with 10 to 15 machines. Corey breaks down how he picked Naturals2Go, used their locating help and technology, and built factory and trucking locations that depend on his machines every day, all while juggling a full time job and family.

From Special Forces to Business Success: Jeff Westmoreland’s Naturals2Go Journey

Former Special Forces veteran Jeff Westmoreland shares how he transitioned from military service into entrepreneurship and built a fast-growing vending business. Starting with 10 machines, Jeff expanded to 20 machines in less than a year through persistence, customer service, and self-locating every account. In this episode, he explains why mindset, relationships, and consistency have been the keys to his success. If you’re considering business ownership, Jeff’s story is packed with inspiration and practical insight.

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Finding a Smarter Way to Work

After nearly 10 years of running a café, Jason Hrisanthacopoulos hit a point many business owners know all too well—burnout. Working seven days a week, managing staff, and constantly putting out fires, the business was successful… but it came at a cost. Then everything changed. In early 2025, his café gained unexpected attention. A menu item went viral, media picked it up, and multiple offers to buy the business started coming in. “The stars aligned,” Jason said. “It just felt like the right time.” So he sold. But that led to the next big question—what now? Choosing a Different Path Jason knew he didn’t want to jump back into another high-stress, employee-heavy business. He wanted: More control More flexibility Less day-to-day chaos That search led him to vending. Why Vending Worked What stood out was the simplicity. No large team to manage. No being tied to one location. No constant emergencies. Instead, Jason focused on strong locations, quality machines, and creating a better experience for customers. Even better—he could build multiple income streams across different locations. Doing It Differently With B'More Bites Vending LLC, Jason didn’t just place machines—he elevated the experience. He focused on: Modern equipment Fresh, high-quality options Locally inspired products By self-locating his accounts, he stayed in control of his growth and built a business on his terms. A New Kind of Freedom The biggest shift wasn’t just financial—it was personal. No more managing large teams. No more 24/7 stress. No more burnout. Now, he works hard—but with flexibility, control, and a business that works for him. The Takeaway Jason’s story is a reminder: Sometimes it’s not about working harder—it’s about finding something that works better. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for a change… there are other ways to build a business—and a life—you actually enjoy.

How Travis & Amy Jackson Grew Red Dirt Vending to 22 Machines in One Year - VIBECast

In this episode of VIBEcast, host Linda Ballesteros sits down with Travis and Amy Jackson, founders of Red Dirt Vending in Athens, Alabama. Launched just over a year ago, their Naturals2Go business has already expanded to 22 machines across schools, dealerships, construction companies, and community centers. For Travis and Amy, vending offered the perfect combination of independence, family flexibility, and reliable support. They share how they started with ten machines, navigated the learning curve, and grew through opportunities ranging from word-of-mouth referrals to a flyer that unexpectedly led to one of their busiest locations. Along the way, they’ve built strong relationships with site managers, customized product selections for each community, and delivered quick, personal service that sets them apart. Their journey shows how new operators can combine Naturals2Go’s proven framework with their own persistence and personal touch to build a thriving business. Learn how a vending business might be a fit for your family: https://naturals2go.com/family-business/ #Naturals2Go #VIBEcast #VendingBusiness #MicroMarkets #FamilyBusiness #WorkLifeBalance #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusinessSuccess

Why This Army Veteran & Healthcare Professional Chose Naturals2Go After Retirement - VIBEcast EPXX

Turning retirement into opportunity with vending and micro markets. In this episode of VIBECast, host Linda Ballesteros talks with Nate and Lori Kenworthy of 208 Snacks LLC. After long careers—Nate serving 23 years in the U.S. Army and Lori working more than 40 years as a radiologic technologist—they knew they weren’t ready to fully retire. With the help of a franchise consultant who conducted extensive research, they discovered Naturals2Go and decided it was the right fit for their next chapter. They launched boldly with 25 vending machines at once and have since expanded into micro markets, including a major hospital location. Along the way, they’ve built their business on relationships and community engagement: tailoring replenishment to demand, sponsoring employee-of-the-month gift cards, donating backpacks for school drives, and even showing appreciation with special meals at client sites. Their journey shows how vending can be more than a business — it can be a way to strengthen communities and create meaningful connections. For anyone considering entrepreneurship after retirement, or curious about how Naturals2Go supports new operators, this conversation offers a real look at starting strong and growing with purpose. #Naturals2Go #VIBEcast #VendingBusiness #MicroMarkets #Entrepreneurship #WorkLifeBalance #VeteranOwnedBusiness #RetirementBusiness #SmallBusinessSuccess #HealthyVending

VIBECast EP34 Bob Tullio: Tullio: From Coin-Op Roots to a $25M Vending and Micro Markets Business

Industry leader Bob Tullio traces his path from family coin-op to building and selling a $25M operation—and shares a practical roadmap for winning and scaling in convenience services. Description In this episode of the VIBE Cast, we sit down with Bob Tullio—a longtime voice and innovator in the convenience services industry, and contributing editor for Automatic Merchandiser Magazine and vendingmarketwatch.com. From starting a family-run coin-op games company during the rise of Asteroids to building a $25 million business spanning vending, coffee service, Micro Markets, pantry service, and point-of-use water, Bob’s career is a masterclass in adaptability and growth. Bob reveals how small operators can compete with industry giants by over-delivering on service, protecting key accounts with strong agreements, presenting like a “big” brand, and diversifying offerings without losing focus. He shares why coffee is one of the most powerful emotional products in sales, how point-of-use water can deliver annuity-like revenue, and why Micro Markets, and increasingly, smart markets, are reshaping customer expectations. Throughout the conversation, Bob outlines the fundamentals that separate hobbyists from high-performers: proper capitalization, trusted advisors, disciplined branding, and ongoing training. He also points to valuable industry resources—from trade shows and training programs to educational content—that help both new and established operators sharpen their skills and stay competitive. Whether you’re launching your first machine or expanding into multiple services, this episode offers clear, field-tested strategies for sustainable growth in today’s convenience services market.

VIBEcast EP33: Reinventing After Corporate – Portia Boston's Vending Journey

After nearly 30 years in banking, Portia Boston's was laid off—but instead of returning to corporate life, she made a bold move into entrepreneurship. In this episode of VIBEcast, Portia shares how she reinvented herself after corporate, launching a successful vending business through Naturals2Go. She opens up about the emotional toll of job loss, the support that helped her transition, and how vending gave her the flexibility to be more present with her family. Now with nine machines and plans to keep growing, Portia is not only building a business—she’s creating a legacy for her son. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the comfort of a paycheck, wondering if something more is possible, Portia’s story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to start again.

VIBEcast EP32: From Side Hustle to Business Contracts - Ross Kramer of Remarkable Vending Services

How Ross went from 6 to 19 machines overnight—and built lasting success through acquisitions, partnerships, hiring, and heart In this episode of VIBEcast, we sit down with Ross Kramer, founder of Remarkable Vending Services, to hear how his background in the snack industry and entrepreneurial mindset helped him turn a small vending operation into a growing, strategic business. Ross shares how he scaled from 6 to 19 machines overnight through acquisition, built trust with nine YMCA locations, and secured a two-year contract by treating vending like a real business—not just a side hustle. He dives into how he hired his nieces to manage the day-to-day and how that flexibility gave him time to focus on growth, relationships, and long-term planning. Whether you're just starting out or scaling up, this conversation is packed with insight on how to build a business that's sustainable, relational, and real.

VIBEcast EP31: From Tech Careers to Purposeful Vending – Laura & RossCrandall’s Naturals2Go Journey

In this episode of VIBE Cast, we sit down with Laura and Ross Crandall, a dynamic duo who made the leap from tech to vending—and brought their values and strategic mindsets with them. Ross shares how his research journey sparked their transition from traditional careers to business ownership, while Laura explains how she overcame her initial skepticism by realizing that vending could align with her passion for food equity and dietary inclusion. The Crandalls have grown their business quickly by learning to self-locate machines, creatively test products, and deeply engage with their local community. As a result of their business success, Laura was able to retire from her career in tech and fully step into vending. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow with purpose, this conversation is a must-listen for any operator who wants to build something real, sustainable, and personal.