Meet Linda Logan

I come from humble beginnings. I grew up in the Englewood neighborhood of Chicago as the middle child in a family of six. Growing up, I often felt the weight of the stereotypes that came with being from my neighborhood. There were times when I doubted myself and questioned whether I was meant to succeed. But my parents taught me the value of hard work, honesty, and strong morals, reminding me that my circumstances did not define my future.

The greatest influence in my life was my mother, Catherleen Logan. She led by example through her unwavering Christian faith, kindness, and dedication to our family. She loved cooking, gardening, and preserving vegetables, and it was through her that I discovered my own passion for preparing food. Everything she stood for inspired me to dream bigger and work harder, and her influence continues to guide me every day.

After graduating from high school, I decided to attend trade school instead of college because I wanted to avoid student debt while learning practical skills that would allow me to support myself. Soon after, life presented me with one of my greatest challenges—I became a mother at 18 years old. Later, I welcomed my second child and found myself raising two children as a single parent. It wasn't easy. There were many obstacles and moments when I could have given up, but I refused to let those challenges define me. Through perseverance and determination, I built a stable career and was blessed to purchase my first home by the age of 30.

Although I eventually had a good-paying job, I couldn't shake the feeling that I was meant to do something more. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, I regularly brought homemade food to work, and my coworkers constantly encouraged me to turn my passion into a business. At first, the idea seemed overwhelming, but eventually I asked myself, "Why not?" That simple question changed my life.

On October 2, 2021, I officially launched Momma's Pickle Bites. I started by selling flavored pickles that I purchased through a coworker, but when I could no longer find the supplier, I challenged myself to create my own recipes. Through trial and error, I developed flavors that people loved. I offered free samples to coworkers, and the response was incredible. I handled every part of the business myself—from recipe development to food preparation—without much outside support.

Naming my business was easy. I wanted to honor my mother, whose love, strength, and example inspired everything I do. Momma's Pickle Bites is more than just a business—it's a tribute to her legacy.

As my business continued to grow, I expanded my menu to include caramel cakes, hoagies, charcuterie boards, salads, and catering services. Today, my products are also available at Muncies Foodmart on South Cottage Grove. Beyond food, I have continued to grow as an entrepreneur by offering decorative table and chair rentals for special events, and I am also a certified CPR instructor.

Looking back, I realize my journey has never been about where I started—it has always been about my willingness to keep moving forward. I believe that every challenge has prepared me for the opportunities I've been given.

To anyone thinking about starting a business or pursuing a dream, my advice is simple: don't let fear stop you. Your dream may seem impossible today, but that doesn't mean it can't become your reality. Stay patient, work hard, surround yourself with positive people, and never give up. Remember, a single spark can grow into a powerful flame if you're willing to believe in yourself and keep going.