De J. Lozada: The Queen of Soul (Popped Popcorn)

Photo by Adrian Armstrong.
She's got Heavenly Mac ‘n Cheese, Big Momma’s Fried Chicken, Auntie’s Best Pecan Pie, Banana Pudding — #unameit!

Flavorsome, colorful kernels are popping up in Austin and soon – all across the nation. Soul Popped Gourmet Popcorn is a “Soul Food Inspired” healthy snack filled with the savory flavor of culture. “Conceived in 100% organic coconut oil,” Soul Popped is made from simple, premium and natural ingredients.   

De Juana “De J.” Lozada is the visionary founder and queen of Soul Popped Gourmet Popcorn – which she refers to as “the popcorn of the people.” Lozada previously worked in various roles, including a career in public affairs; however, those endeavors were not fulfilling.  “The plantation in Texas was not being kind to me,” stated Lozada. This was the impetus for her to seek Godly counsel regarding her future.

Soul Popped is feeding your spirit, without all the calories

“Seriously, God spoke to me with the vision saying, ‘Make popcorn.’”  Lozada says she is “simply being obedient and following along.” Each kernel of Soul Popped offers the comfort of soul food.  

Posing the question, “Where can you find elevated soul food?”, Lozada answered herself: “Soul Popped is not just filling your belly; Soul Popped is feeding your spirit, but without all the calories.”

Currently, Soul Popped is primarily a one-woman show bursting with innovation and inspiration. “I’m literally doing the work of five people,” says Lozada.  A divorced mother of three adult children, (two sons and her niece that she raised) Lozada says her 81 year old father also lives with her and assists her from time to time.  

However, the team is likely to expand in the very near future. De J. recently visited New York City to film a segment on MSNBC’s “Your Business with J.J. Ramberg.” Seizing the opportunity to pitch her product and brand, Lozada wowed the judges. “Soul Popped is only a year old, so I didn’t really expect to be selected,” Lozada exclaimed in wonder.

According to Lozada, the money is in retail outlets. Soul Popped is headed to Sam’s Club.  Lozada will be traveling to the Sam’s Club headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas to discuss this venture, and eventually seal the deal. “It’s only been a year, but God continues to bless this crazy new business of mine that transforms Soul Food flavors into tasty and authentic popcorn blends,” Lozada posted on her Facebook page.

Our commitment to service and community is a cornerstone of everything we do

De J. is also community driven. Her product is not just about generating income for herself; it also provides a revenue stream for others. “I am a part of the community too.” As stated on her website, “Our commitment to service and community is a cornerstone of everything we do now or will ever do in the future.”

Soul Popped is serving up homemade love in a bag with “ALL flavor, NO Guilt.”  Pop by and get you some flavor!

Until their Sam’s Club debut, you can find De J. and Soul Popped Gourmet Popcorn at the Texas Farmers Market in Cedar Park on Saturdays and at Mueller Lake Park on Sundays. You can also order this southern delicacy online via her website.

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