Myles is a food entrepreneur and aspiring chef who launched his own line of nostalgic, nutritious, and convenient cuisine. Inspired by the soul food of his childhood, Myles Comfort Foods specializes in mac and cheese made with wholesome ingredients, packed with flavor and plenty of protein. With the help of co-founder Zhanna, this innovative brand has curated a line of microwavable macs ranging from Buffalo-Style Chicken to a three-cheese Homestyle blend. Simply pop your pasta in the microwave or oven and enjoy a comforting meal in minutes.
Recently, we caught up with Myles to learn more about their journey and hear his advice for fellow entrepreneurs.
1. Why did you start Myles Comfort Foods?
I started Myles Comfort Foods to fill a gap in the market for comfort food that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Growing up, I was inspired by the meals shared around my family’s kitchen table—ones full of love, flavor, and connection. However, I noticed that most comfort food options in stores were filled with artificial ingredients and lacked meaningful nutrition. I wanted to create a product that delivers the nostalgic flavors people love while using clean-label ingredients and natural nutrition—hence, our 24g of protein! Myles Comfort Foods is my way of bringing wholesome comfort back to the table.
2. What obstacles did you face along the way?
Transitioning from a local brand to one with a national presence is no small feat. As a small company, my co-founder and I often wear multiple hats, juggling responsibilities while tackling daily challenges. One of our biggest hurdles has been marketing—specifically, figuring out how to improve velocities by identifying our true market value and understanding what matters most to our core audience. It’s a process that demands patience, time, and, at times, significant financial investment to get it right.
3. What lessons do you have for other entrepreneurs?
Lesson number one—know your customers better than they know themselves. A lot of times, purchase decisions are made on an almost instinctual level. Therefore, it’s important to understand what drives purchases in your category and what void you are filling.
Lesson number two—know your why. As this journey becomes increasingly difficult, what is going to keep you in the game? What is driving this passion of yours and can it withstand the roller coaster ride of entrepreneurship?
4. What’s on the horizon for Myles Comfort Foods?
Our biggest goal is to become a household name. At the forefront of our strategy is to continue increasing brand awareness and driving trials of our lineup of mac and cheese. We want people to experience true comfort food in a category (frozen) that is mostly lacking in that space. We are also working on new frozen items, like shrimp and grits.
5. How do you keep work/life balance? What drives/inspires you?
I am a HUGE fitness enthusiast. Life is all about balance, right? The gym in a way is my yoga room. It’s where I feel like I am in full control and where I am my most confident. When I am finished with a workout, I feel refreshed—both mentally and physically! I also love to cook for my family. The experience of feeding those I love motivates me on a deep level.
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