Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Mcduffie
Hi Michelle, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I own Soul Patrol Lactose Free Food Truck. I got started because Im lactose intolerant and sometimes when I’m looking for a place to get some delicious food, and can’t find anything that my stomach can tolerate, I frequently ask myself “who considers the lactose intolerant”? I can’t reverse being lactose intolerant, so I decided to embrace it. Initially, I viewed being lactose intolerant as a challenge or a limitation. When I decided to embrace it, thats when I realized that I do still have many delicious food options!
After much research, I realized there’s so many others who are also lactose intolerant. Armed with this information, I wanted to open a food truck and sell delicious, lactose free foods for everyone, but specifically to those who are lactose intolerant like myself.
I want our community to be included in enjoying delicious cheesy meals, especially the macaroni and cheese, but without the pain and discomfort! God gave me a vision for Soul Patrol. I couldn’t have done this without Him giving me the vision and my ability to accomplish it.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This road has not been a cake walk! I hired a major, reputable company to complete a custom food truck build for me, and they scammed out of $34,000. After losing that money, thankfully I had enough to purchase another new trailer without any equipment. I purchased my equipment separately and hired a local builder to install it. This journey is increasing my faith, and is expanding my capacity for what seemed impossible. This journey is forcing me to walk by faith, and not by sight. I have found strengths and courage that I didn’t even realize I had. I definitely pray more! God is my anchor and He continues to guide and bless me throughout this journey! Each day, each event, each time I open my food truck, I learn something new. As I learn to overcome the challenges, I realize my strength is increased and I’m much more equipped and confident to help and encourage others. Although my journey has had its share of challenges, Im a firm believer that challenges are meant to be overcome!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am the proud owner of Soul Patrol Lactose Free Food Truck. I specialize in preparing and selling lactose free foods. I’m most proud that I did it and Im doing it – even through the challenges, and the obstacles, Im extremely proud of myself! I believe that my lactose free foods set me apart. Not only are my foods lactose free, they’re tasty, flavorful and delicious. I haven’t found a restaurant that specializes specifically in lactose free foods other than my food truck. I believe that my Lactose Free Food Truck is the first of its kind! It’s my first of many! This is just the launching pad! Im extremely proud of me!
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Something that most people don’t see is the behind the scenes amount of care, effort and hard work that I pour into my craft. When I open my food truck, my customers get the finished version. However, the works start long before the doors even open. The prepping, measuring, and weighing can be time consuming, but its a necessary precursor to my delicious foods. Im honored and blessed to do what I love and it shows in my work how much I love and appreciate it!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Soulpatrol.lactosefree
- Facebook: Soulpatrol.lactosefree
- Other: TikTok > Soulpatrol.lactosefree
