Meet Kayla Hall-ransom | FOUNDER/CEO of The City Juicery

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Hall-ransom and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was more about transformation than a lifelong passion for health and wellness. I didn’t begin my journey fully invested in wellness; it grew as I walked through my own path to healing. By December 2022, I started realizing that what had been a personal hobby—juicing and making smoothies—had real potential to impact others.

The turning point was learning just how large the cold-press juice industry is, with billions at stake. That insight shifted my view, making me see my passion as a viable business opportunity and, more importantly, a way to provide freedom for myself and others. I envisioned The City Juicery as a bridge for people in my community to have access to healthier options, especially in areas where wellness isn’t always prioritized. My background in education also drove me to use this business to inform and empower others around health, showing that wellness is attainable at any stage of life.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The City Juicery is more than just a juice bar—it’s a community-focused space with a mission to make wellness accessible to everyone. What sets us apart is our commitment to the quality of our ingredients, our strong community ties, and our genuine dedication to educating people on health and wellness. We work to create a welcoming environment for people to explore better health, one juice or smoothie at a time, and that community-driven purpose is at the heart of everything we do.

Getting to where we are today has been a journey of learning and perseverance. It hasn’t always been easy. Starting with a passion but minimal business knowledge, I learned quickly that passion alone wasn’t enough; building a sustainable business required strategic planning, financial understanding, and resilience. There were tough days, but I overcame these challenges by connecting with mentors, attending workshops, and seeking support from local organizations. They provided me with tools, guidance, and a network that was invaluable in helping The City Juicery take shape.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way is the power of community and the importance of staying true to the values that inspired this journey. Our customers aren’t just buying juice; they’re supporting a mission, and that motivates me to keep striving to offer the best. I’m proud of our growth and deeply thankful for the support that fuels it.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about The City Juicery, it’s that we’re here to serve our community by providing quality wellness options for everyone. We’re driven by a genuine desire to help people feel their best and to create a space where wellness feels accessible and welcoming. This journey has been filled with growth, humility, and joy, and I’m excited to keep building something that’s meaningful for our community.

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.
If my best friend were visiting Nashville, I’d focus on giving them an unforgettable experience centered around the city’s Black-owned businesses. We’d start the mornings at local cafes and breakfast spots where we could savor classic Southern and creative cuisine, showcasing Nashville’s unique flavor. From there, we’d explore neighborhoods with a rich Black history, stopping by museums that celebrate African American contributions to music and culture.

Lunches and dinners would be all about supporting local spots known for soul food, fresh takes on Southern classics, and fusion dishes that capture the heart of Nashville. Evenings would include visits to lounges and cocktail bars where we could unwind, enjoy live music, and soak in the ambiance that only Nashville can offer.

Throughout the week, we’d make sure to explore markets, boutiques, and pop-up events where Black entrepreneurs showcase their artistry, fashion, and products. From stylish clothing and handmade goods to wellness products, we’d focus on supporting as many Black-owned businesses as possible, giving my friend a real sense of the vibrant community that makes Nashville so special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe so much of my entrepreneurial journey to an incredible network of people, mentors, and organizations who have been there every step of the way.

I am endlessly grateful to our community and consumers who have supported The City Juicery from day one. This journey wouldn’t be possible without each person who has shown up, chosen to try something new, and embraced our vision of accessible wellness. It’s the loyal customers, the warm community connections, and the genuine care people show that fuel our growth and inspire me every day.

And then, there are people like Jacqulyn Boston, affectionately known as “Auntie,” who has been there at every step, working tirelessly, standing in for me, and advocating for our mission. Her dedication reflects the heart of our community—one that believes in what we’re building together.

To each customer, supporter, and friend who has been part of this journey, thank you. Your trust, encouragement, and continued presence are the backbone of The City Juicery, and I am forever grateful.

Website: https://thecityjuicerynash.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecityjuicery

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-city-juicery-nashville?osq=the+city+juicery

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thecityjuicery