We had the good fortune of connecting with Maia Hollins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maia, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
This isn’t necessarily “advice” but I have always disagreed with the phrase “self-made.” No one, no matter how successful or where they started from is self-made. Everyone needed someone at some point in their journey to success, it could have a been a mailman, a janitor, a receptionist or even a child who gave you a brilliant idea. We all needed someone.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the founder and CEO of The Chocolate Chip Company, we are a premium cookie dough manufacturer based in North Texas. I attended the University of North Texas where I developed my education in merchandising and business management. Like many other great companies my business started as a “side hustle” in 2015 but I always knew that it would be much more. After several years, many career changes and even the birth of my 3 youngest babies which occurred in 2020, 2021 and 2022 I continued to work on th business in the background. January 2022 I was fired from my job and it was at that moment God put it on my heart to pitch my brand to grocery stores. I was picked up by Central Market grocery stores (owned by HEB) just 1 week after pitching. Within 4 months I leased a warehouse, converted it into a factory and started distribution, with all 4 of my children along side of me. With the support of my husband, friends and family we are continuing to grow and have some really exciting opportunities on the horizon.

This journey is long and treacherous at times but its all beautiful.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This shoutout goes to my husband who has supported me from the beginning, my kids who go to work with me everyday and motivate me, my Godmom Tyra, my aunt Jackie and my closest friends and family who supported in countless ways.
Last but not least, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Website: https://thechochip.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/thechocchip?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/thechochip

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.