Michele Wilson did not grow up in Virginia, but she has roots in the Commonwealth. Wilson, who owns Ma Michele's Cafe in Midlothian, shared her life story on the "Eat It, Virginia!" podcast. Learn about Wilson's upbringing, her food, her commitment to her community, and her restaurant staff.

"They're the best investment I've ever made," she said. "It may sound cliche, but if you're smart and you want to be successful, then you need to take care of the people that are taking care of you. And that's not necessarily always the customer first. It's your employees first. And with my being a small, minority business, I can't compete with larger businesses and what they can offer their employees. So you know, you damn well better be nicer."

Ma Michele's Cafe is located at 10811 Hull Street Road in Midlothian. Call 804-912-1644 to order lunch or dinner.