Meet the Owner: Marshall Leonard of The Real Ice Cream Monsters
There’s something nostalgic about hearing an ice cream truck coming down the street, but The Real Ice Cream Monsters is turning that familiar experience into something even more memorable. With a truck covered in colorful monster characters, a freezer full of frozen treats, and a mission to spread joy throughout the community, owner Marshall Leonard is creating unforgettable experiences for families and event-goers across Wake County and North Carolina.
We sat down with Marshall to learn more about the inspiration behind The Real Ice Cream Monsters, the lessons he’s learned as a small business owner, and what makes his ice cream truck unlike any other.
From Service to Sweet Success
Marshall Leonard is a disabled U.S. Navy veteran who recently retired after a successful career as a college cross country and track & field coach. After retirement, he found himself looking for a new adventure; something fun, creative, and centered around bringing happiness to others.
The idea for The Real Ice Cream Monsters came to life during conversations with his mother, but the entrepreneurial spirit behind the business has been years in the making. Raised by an entrepreneurial mother and grandmother, Marshall grew up learning the value of hard work, taking chances, and building something of his own. Their encouragement gave him the confidence to launch a business that reflects his personality while creating joyful experiences for families throughout the community.
Creating More Than Just an Ice Cream Truck
From the very beginning, Marshall’s vision was clear: create more than just an ice cream truck.
Instead of blending in with traditional ice cream trucks, he wanted to create an experience that people would remember. The idea of transforming the truck into a collection of funny, quirky monster characters felt like the perfect way to make people smile before they even ordered their first treat.
When Marshall unveiled the truck’s design to family and friends, their reactions confirmed he was onto something special. The laughter, smiles, and excitement they shared reinforced his belief that The Real Ice Cream Monsters could become more than just a business; it could become an attraction in its own right.
Big Dreams for Wake County
As the business continues to grow, Marshall’s goal is to make The Real Ice Cream Monsters a recognizable name throughout Wake County.
Whether it’s birthday parties, neighborhood gatherings, employee appreciation events, school celebrations, festivals, or community events, he hopes families and organizations will think of Real Ice Cream Monsters whenever they’re looking to add something fun and memorable to their event.
Marshall's Must-Try Treat
While every item on the truck has its fans, there’s one clear favorite for Marshall: the Oreo Cookie Sandwich.
His reasoning is simple. Oreos are delicious, ice cream is delicious, and together they make the perfect combination. It’s a classic treat that’s hard to beat and one he recommends everyone try.
Lessons Learned Along the Journey
Like many entrepreneurs, Marshall says one of the biggest lessons he’s learned is that building a business is really a series of lessons disguised as mistakes.
When The Real Ice Cream Monsters first launched, much of the focus was on driving through neighborhoods during the week. Over time, however, he realized the business truly shines at events, parties, and community gatherings where people can experience the truck together.
That realization reinforced an important lesson: stay flexible, listen to advice, trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plans as you learn what works. Growth often comes from being willing to adapt.
A Business Built on Community
For Marshall, operating The Real Ice Cream Monsters in Wake County is especially meaningful because it’s where his story began.
Every day offers small moments that remind him why he started this journey—children pointing excitedly at the truck, adults laughing at the monster designs, and people waving as he drives through town.
The warm welcome and support from the Wake County community have made the experience even more special, and Marshall says it’s a wonderful place to own and grow a small business.
The Monster Difference
The Real Ice Cream Monsters isn’t just serving frozen treats, it’s creating memorable experiences.
The truck itself is designed to grab attention with its colorful monster characters, each bringing its own personality to the design. One monster even sports a gold tooth, a detail that often sparks conversations and gets people laughing.
Marshall hopes the truck becomes more than just a place to grab dessert. Much like Raleigh’s colorful murals attract visitors looking for the perfect photo, he envisions The Real Ice Cream Monsters becoming a fun backdrop for selfies, family pictures, and lasting memories.
Where to Catch the Monsters Next
The best way to keep up with The Real Ice Cream Monsters is by following the business on social media, where upcoming stops, community events, and appearances are regularly posted.
Planning a birthday party, neighborhood event, school function, corporate appreciation day, festival, or community celebration? Marshall would love to bring The Real Ice Cream Monsters to your next event and help make it a little sweeter and a lot more memorable.
Follow them on social media!Â
Instagram: @theicecreammonsters
