Keeping Long Beach Healthy: Chris Sweeny

Background: Chris grew up in the San Clemente area. He moved to Long Beach in 2008 and competed in track and field at Cal State University of Long Beach. After graduating, Chris stayed in Long Beach where he started RightMealz, a healthy meal prep and delivery service.

How did you start your business?

I started RightMealz in 2015 after a series of unfortunate events occurred in my life. I had been let go from my job, was dealing with a breakup, and had my car repossessed with no money in my account, which was in fact at a negative $147 at the time. I couldn’t pay rent. I was feeling hopeless and had no idea what I was going to do with my life. That’s when I received a message from someone in my [former] office asking if I could cook for him, i.e., prepare for him what I was eating, since he had been impressed at how I was always in shape. He venmo’ed me $100 for food and I remember being in my kitchen just cooking 10 meals with no real purpose. It was in that moment that my life was changed and I created RightMealz. Through trial and tribulation, (not to mention) blind faith, I was able to create something that not only changed my life but has impacted other people around me in a positive way.

What are your goals for the next five years?

My next goal is to be a motivational speaker and impact the people I speak to in regards to the struggles I went through to get to where I’m at today. I’m also sober so another goal I have for myself is to remain sober and be at service to those who are struggling with alcohol and drug addiction. I also want my own storefront for RightMealz, as I currently use restaurant kitchens such as Boathouse on the Bay during their off hours.