Meet the Makers

For Black Business Month, we’re excited to feature Live Loud Foods, a vibrant gourmet candied nut brand founded by the talented Chef Keesha O’Galdez. With a culinary journey that began at the Natural Gourmet Institute for Culinary Arts in NYC, Chef Keesha mastered the art of health-supportive diets. Her unique blend of culinary expertise and business acumen—backed by a BS in Information Systems Engineering and an MBA from Simmons College—has made Live Loud Foods a standout in the nut-snacking category.

The inspiration for Live Loud Foods came from a dinner where Chef Keesha’s delicious pistachios stole the show. Encouraged by the enthusiastic response, she took the leap and began packaging her creations, launching a brand that combines bold flavors with a fun, adventurous spirit. Based in the Bronx, Live Loud Foods offers signature products like Citrus Pistachio and Caribbean Jerk candied nuts, infusing NYC flair with global flavors. These gourmet snacks are perfect for any occasion, adding a touch of excitement to both everyday snacking and special events.

As a Black-owned business, Live Loud Foods represents more than just delicious snacks—it’s about breaking barriers and building a legacy of excellence, resilience, and innovation. Chef Keesha has faced challenges that many Black entrepreneurs know well. “Usually, we are the first in our families to start a business, which can feel risky and overwhelming, often without a clear path to follow,” she explains. On top of that, securing funding and overcoming industry biases add to the struggle. But instead of letting these challenges hold her back, Keesha uses them as motivation to succeed and inspire the next generation of Black entrepreneurs.

Chef Keesha’s message to fellow Black entrepreneurs is clear: “There is support for when you do start!”