Randy Roberson of Urban Verde. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
by Ariel Roberson, ShrevePossible
When the pandemic swept the globe, confining people indoors to reflect on personal well-being, Randy Roberson found himself on a mission. Housebound like many, he recognized the toll it was taking on mental health and overall well-being. The answer he envisioned was Urban Verde, a venture designed to offer a refreshing take on health, particularly mental health, during challenging times.
Roberson’s journey into the world of plant-based nutrition began in 2019, when he faced health concerns related to high blood pressure and cholesterol. Opting for a whole food, plant-based diet, he witnessed remarkable changes within weeks.
“I discovered the vegan, whole food plant-based lifestyle and was inspired by some friends and documentaries like Game Changers,” he said.
Urban Verde. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
The shift yielded tangible results — his cholesterol levels dropped significantly, leading to a life without medication.
The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic served as a turning point for Roberson.
Randy Roberson of Urban Verde. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
Witnessing the vulnerability of those with pre-existing health conditions, he realized the lack of healthy options in Shreveport. Determined to address this gap, Urban Verde was born, initially offering wheatgrass juice at the Shreveport Farmers Market.
Urban Verde cold-pressed juices grew from Randy Roberson’s personal journey to better health. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
However, introducing plant-based options in a region known for its culinary traditions posed its challenges. Yet Roberson persisted, pivoting to cold-pressed juices that aligned with local tastes.
Randy Roberson of Urban Verde. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
Randy Roberson of Urban Verde. Photo Credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
Collaborating with the health community and engaging with both plant-based enthusiasts and those new to the concept, Urban Verde began gaining traction. Despite the initial resistance to counterculture health foods, Roberson found support among individuals seeking healthier alternatives. He emphasizes the significance of platforms like farmers’ markets serving as launchpads for budding entrepreneurs to gauge public interest and cultivate a loyal customer base.
Cranberry Walnut Earth Bite Cakes a collaboration with Lion Art Creations and Urban Verde. Photo credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
Urban Verde at Local Market on Line. Photo credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
The journey of Urban Verde embodies a spirit of community collaboration. Roberson acknowledges the support received from entities like the Shreveport Biscuit Company and Local Market Online, fostering a space for local businesses to thrive.
Randy Roberson of Urban Verde, Cadie Mohnacky, Kanya Michelle of Shreveport Biscuit Company at Local Market on Line. Photo credit: Ariel Roberson/ShrevePossible
Looking ahead, Roberson plans for Urban Verde to expand its offerings, catering to business events and possibly a mobile food and juice truck — a step toward bringing healthy options directly to underserved communities.
When asked about the biggest hurdles in starting a business in Shreveport, Roberson said the biggest hurdle was garnering initial support and aid, a common struggle for entrepreneurs. However, he remains optimistic, advocating perseverance and passion as keys to eventual success.
Roberson’s vision extends beyond mere business growth — it’s about serving the community and ensuring accessibility to healthier choices for everyone. The prospect of a mobile food and juice truck is not merely a business endeavor but a means to meet the needs of the community directly.
To find updates on where to pre-order, pick up products, or to have a conversation with Urban Verde, visit https://urbanverde.net or https://www.facebook.com/urbanverdellc.
