Breaking Stereotypes: A specialty running and walking store serving a predominantly Black community and breaking stereotypes.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ric Ross.

A 37‑year veteran of the music industry who transitioned from a successful career in entertainment to entrepreneurship as co‑owner of Big Peach Running Co.—South Fulton, the first Black‑owned specialty running store in Georgia.

Ric shares his journey from music promotions to health and wellness entrepreneurship, the importance of serving community, how running shaped his life, and how he built a thriving retail business that focuses on education, proper footwear, and customer experience.

🎯 Purpose of the Interview

The interview aims to:

1. Spotlight Ric Ross’s transition from music to entrepreneurship

He discusses how a longtime passion for running evolved into a thriving business.

2. Highlight Big Peach Running Co.—South Fulton

A specialty running and walking store serving a predominantly Black community and breaking stereotypes.

3. Educate listeners on proper footwear, running basics, and health benefits

Ric stresses correct shoe fitting, foot analysis, and the role of running/walking in overall wellness.

4. Inspire aspiring entrepreneurs

He shares business planning insights, overcoming stereotypes, navigating funding, and building community-centered ventures.

5. Emphasize service, legacy, and purpose

Ric’s nonprofit and community work underscore his philosophy of giving back.

💡 Key Takeaways

1. Running = Freedom, Clarity, and Mental Escape

Ric describes running as deeply emotional and freeing—a “runner’s high” that places him in another world.

2. His Journey from Music Executive to Running Store Owner

Ric’s path began when he walked into Big Peach’s first store as a customer.
Later, after years in the music business, the founder Mike Costantino encouraged him to open a location.
He spent a year quietly developing a detailed business plan before presenting it to his wife and banks.

Banks praised his plan as “the best they’d ever seen,” emphasizing how preparation creates opportunities.

3. Why He Chose South Fulton

Ric intentionally wanted the store in his own neighborhood, a fast‑growing, majority‑Black community of over 100,000 residents.
People questioned him—“Black folks don’t run”—but he knew the market, the growth of Black running clubs, and the need for proper footwear among everyday people.

4. Education‑Driven Customer Experience

The store focuses on:

• Foot analysis using the Aetrex Albert scanner
• Proper shoe fitting
• Education for runners and walkers
• A no‑judgment environment for customers with foot issues

He intentionally branded the store “Run Walk” to remove intimidation.

5. Health Benefits of Running & Walking

Ric shares how running lowered his blood pressure and improved his heart health, reinforced by his doctor's advice.
He emphasizes realistic lifestyle choices: eat what you enjoy—but control portions and stay active.

6. Competing in a Big-Box Retail Market

Despite large competitors, Big Peach’s success is tied to:

• Community representation
• Personalized service
• Being the first Black‑owned specialty run store in Georgia
• Cultural inclusiveness (e.g., redesigning their mascot “Peachy” to reflect the community) [

7. Community Impact Stories Drive His Motivation

Moments such as a 94‑year‑old man walking without a cane after being fitted for proper shoes remind Ric why the business matters.

8. Hiring Challenges in a Post‑Covid Workforce

He notes it’s difficult to find employees who are:

• Personable
• Hungry to learn
• Good at customer engagement

He also addresses stereotypes about customers expecting discounts from Black-owned businesses.

9. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Ric offers foundational guidance:

• Credit is king—maintain excellent credit to access capital
• Be willing to sacrifice
• Know your market
• Learn continuously [

10. His Purpose: Music + Running + Serving

Ric founded the Music Education Group, a nonprofit now in 26 schools across 4 districts, teaching life skills through music, film, and digital media.
He discovered later in life that service had always been his purpose.

🗣 Notable Quotes (with citations) On running

“When I lace up and hit that road, I’m in a whole other world… it’s freedom.”

On opening his store

“I knew my avatar. I knew who I was marketing to.”

On entrepreneurship

“Credit is king… we may not have a million in the bank, but I can pop that 800 score on them.”

On community impact

“We are so glad you all are in the community”—he says this erases all doubt on difficult days.

On finding purpose

“My passion was music and running. My purpose is serving.”

On representation

“It’s time for Peachy to look like the community.”

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