We recently had the chance to connect with Jocelyn Holloman and have shared our conversation below.
Jocelyn , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A typical day in my life as a wife, mom, vending machine business owner, and content creator is always busy but fulfilling. My mornings usually start with getting my kids ready and taking them to school. From there, I visit my vending machine locations to check on inventory, maintenance, and overall operations. I also meet with my assistant to review our schedule and priorities for the week. Once I wrap up the business side of my day, I shift my focus to content creation — batching and preparing posts to share valuable insights and updates with my audience.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Jocelyn Covington — a proud wife, mom, vending machine business owner, content creator, and educator. I’m the founder of Echelon Vending LLC, a Black-owned company dedicated to helping individuals build profitable vending machine businesses while establishing our own footprint in the industry.
At Echelon Vending, we manage 16 vending machines across multiple locations and recently secured our first government contract, marking an exciting new chapter in our growth. Beyond running our vending operations, I’m passionate about teaching and mentoring new and aspiring vending machine owners. Through classes, mentorship programs, and valuable online content, I provide the tools, strategies, and guidance needed to succeed in this competitive industry.
When I’m not managing machines or securing locations, you’ll find me creating content that blends entrepreneurship, lifestyle, motherhood, and everyday inspiration. My goal is to empower others to build businesses, grow their brands, and create financial freedom — all while balancing the beautiful chaos of real life.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
My earliest memory of feeling powerful was when I successfully landed my first vending machine location on my own.
I remember walking into that business nervous but determined, pitching my services confidently, and hearing “Yes, we’d love to have your machine here.” That moment changed everything for me. It wasn’t just about placing a vending machine — it was proof that I could create opportunities, build something from the ground up, and take control of my future.
That single “yes” gave me the confidence to keep pushing, to grow my brand, and to believe in myself — not just as a vending machine owner, but as a businesswoman, mentor, and creator.
Do you want me to make this sound more personal and emotional so it connects deeper with your audience? It could make a great Instagram caption or an “about me” story.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
The time I almost gave up was when my first vending company failed after one of my former business partners stole money. I felt defeated, frustrated, and honestly questioned whether this industry was even for me.
But instead of letting that setback define me, I chose to start over. I took the lessons I learned, rebuilt from the ground up, and created Echelon Vending LLC — a company I’m proud of today. Now, with 16 machines running and even a government contract secured, I can look back and say that moment didn’t break me… it built me.
Sometimes, the hardest endings lead to the strongest new beginnings.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire my husband not for his power, but for his character. He is one of the most resilient people I know — a true go-getter who never lets obstacles stand in his way. His drive and determination inspire me daily, but what I love most is how he motivates me to be the best version of myself every single day. Having someone who believes in me as much as he does has been one of my greatest blessings.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Today, I’m focused on building generational wealth for my children and getting my assets in order. Every decision I make, every move in my business, and every step toward financial stability is part of a bigger vision — creating a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit my family for decades to come.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://stan.store/echelonvending
- Instagram: EchelonElevated
- Facebook: EchelonElevated
- Youtube: EchelonElevated
