As the world became interested in juicing, cleansing and adding more fruits and vegetables into their lives, Sheena Mannina, began expanding her knowledge about healthy foods, eventually co-founding Raw Republic Juice.
“The business began out of demand for the juices, smoothies and cleanses I had learned to create while studying the juice and holistic health business in New York,” says Mannina. “When I returned to New Orleans, my friends and family wanted me to share what I had learned as well as my products with them! It was then that we began selling and delivering juices and smoothies out of mason jars until the demand became beyond what my partner and I could produce alone.”
Mannina has a background as a holistic health counselor, having completed training at the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. She has also completed a Living Foods certification from the Ann Wigmore Institute in Puerto Rico, along with a 10-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat in Massachusetts. She has studied with spiritual teachers all over the United States.
“All of the experiences of my life have come together to create this business,” Mannina says. “From the health challenges I had as a child to the emotional and spiritual experiences I see playing out in my life now, all of it is inspiration to help others who are seeking ways to handle the same challenges.” 
Raw Republic opened its 1,900 square-foot brick and mortar location on Magazine Street two years ago. Mannina says that community relationships have helped it to grow.
“Our Raw Republic team and customers have been so amazing in spreading the word of how their personal health and life challenges have transformed through the juicing and conscious living that they've learned and experienced at Raw Republic,” she says. “So, word of mouth for us has been key. We also promote through social media and some local health publications.”
Her business challenges have come, she says, in cases where she has second-guessed her intuition and when she tries to do too much herself.
“The difficulties and challenges come when you deviate from those truths and forward moving inner guidance,” Mannina says. “I think asking for help, trusting your guidance and believing in your message are the ways to stay strong on this path.”
As for Raw Republic’s clientele, Mannina says that each client's experience is unique and dependent on what he or she is ready to begin transforming in his or her life.
“Some clients experience only the amazing organic cold-pressed juices and juice cleanses,” she says. “While some clients are guided to purchase a book that has changed their relationships, their occupations and the way they see themselves. We work hard to assist in meeting our clients where they are and guiding them to their next level of health, wellness and peace.”
What’s next for Raw Republic? Mannina says they’re always expanding and transforming the menu and are set to make some unique changes in the coming year.
Visit Raw Republic Juice at 4528 Magazine Street. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
