In this powerful episode of The Franchise Woman Podcast, Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa sit down with Loana Perez, founder and CEO of TeaCupFuls, a creative boba tea franchise making waves with its bold vision and deeply personal origins.
Loana’s journey is far from conventional. Once a high school dropout and teenage runaway, she faced adversity head-on with resilience and determination. Today, she stands at the helm of a growing franchise brand that centers around connection, creativity, and community. Her story is one of hope, grit, and the belief that no matter where you start, you’re capable of something greater.
From Struggle to CEO
At just 15 years old, Loana was living on her own. By 18, she was a young mother, juggling the demands of parenthood while she and her husband worked tirelessly to support their family. For years, they relied on food stamps and Section 8 housing, holding down multiple jobs in hopes of a better future.
With only $1,200 in savings, the couple launched a commercial cleaning company. It wasn’t an overnight success—it took three years of hard work before the business grew into a seven-figure company. In 2022, they sold it, laying the foundation for a new chapter: the creation of TeaCupFuls.
TeaCupFuls: A Mission in a Cup
What began as a creative hobby soon evolved into a movement. Known for its vibrant, over-the-top drinks, inventive toppings, and teen-friendly atmosphere, TeaCupFuls is more than a boba tea shop—it’s a safe haven.
Loana designed the brand with intention. As a teen, she lacked a place where she felt safe and accepted. Through TeaCupFuls, she set out to create that space for others—especially for youth who might be facing similar challenges.
“I didn’t have anywhere to go as a teenager. So I created a place where my kids—and other kids—could come, hang out, feel safe, and just be themselves,” Loana explains.
From Mother to Franchise Visionary
Today, Loana leads with compassion, authenticity, and a strong sense of purpose. With two corporate locations, a growing number of franchise units, and over 20 more in development, she’s building a brand that’s both profitable and deeply meaningful.
She’s not afraid to mop floors, run staff meetings, or involve her children in the business—even letting them help name menu items. Her leadership style is grounded in humility and a commitment to empowering others.
In this episode, Loana shares insights on:
- The value of asking for help and forming a strong team
- How delegation strengthens franchise operations
- The importance of building a business that creates generational wealth
- Staying focused on the “why” that drives the brand’s purpose
Franchising for Visionaries and Builders
Loana is clear about the kind of franchise partners TeaCupFuls is looking for. It’s not about trading one job for another—it’s about building something meaningful.
TeaCupFuls is a brand for dreamers, legacy builders, and families who want to create something lasting. It’s not about age or experience—it’s about having the heart, vision, and determination to make a difference.
“We’re looking for franchisees who want to leave a legacy, not just make money,” says Loana.
Looking to the Future
Loana envisions a future where her children lead the company, franchisees grow businesses they can pass on to the next generation, and she finally takes a well-earned break—relaxing on a beach, knowing she built something with real impact.
This episode is for anyone who’s ever doubted their worth or wondered if they were capable of more. Loana’s story is a reminder that no matter your past, your future is still unwritten.