"We're not here just to show up, we're here to make a difference in people's lives."

- Dennis Hanley

Welcome to a fresh and invigorating episode of Ozark Natural Foods, The Co-Op Podcast, where we dive into the heart of Northwest Arkansas' food scene. In this episode, host Randy Wilburn is thrilled to welcome two pivotal figures steering the course of the largest food Co-Op in Arkansas—Dennis Hanley, the interim General Manager, and Alicia Powell, the Operations Manager.

Dennis brings with him a wealth of global retail experience, spanning 48 years and various formats, including his latest foray into the natural and organic space with Ozark Natural Foods. Alicia, a seasoned Co-Op veteran, shares her journey through different roles and her vision for the Co-Op's operational excellence. Together, they're writing the next chapter in the Co-Op's storied history, infusing the space with a vibrant and empowering culture that resonates with both staff and customers alike.

• The transformative leadership of Dennis Hanley and his approach to revitalizing the Co-Op with a focus on empowerment and fun.
• Alicia Powell's insights into the operational shifts that are bringing back the Co-Op's roots and creating a happier, more positive shopping experience.
• The unique challenges grocery stores face in providing healthy food options and how the Co-Op addresses these issues with its local-first ethos.
• The importance of community and member-owner engagement in shaping the Co-Op's offerings and driving its growth.
• The exciting future of Ozark Natural Foods as it continues to evolve and serve as a beacon of local, fresh, and sustainable food in Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• The transformative leadership of Dennis Hanley and his approach to revitalizing the Co-Op with a focus on empowerment and fun.
• Alicia Powell's insights into the operational shifts that are bringing back the Co-Op's roots and creating a happier, more positive shopping experience.
• The unique challenges grocery stores face in providing healthy food options and how the Co-Op addresses these issues with its local-first ethos.
• The importance of community and member-owner engagement in shaping the Co-Op's offerings and driving its growth.
• The exciting future of Ozark Natural Foods as it continues to evolve and serve as a beacon of local, fresh, and sustainable food in Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op website to learn more about their history, standards of quality, and the importance of being locally focused.
• Listen to Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op podcast to hear stories and information about the largest food Co-Op in Arkansas.
• Check out Modus Studio's website to learn more about its architecture and prototyping services.
• Explore the Co-Op's new location at the corner...

“Knowing where your food comes from is a huge part of your life”.

- Becky Canning

Born and raised on a farm in Ames, Iowa, Becky Canning had a deep-rooted appreciation for locally sourced food. In 2014, her move to Fayetteville, Arkansas introduced her to a community that echoed her passion for homegrown produce. It was this shared ethos that led her and her husband to launch Parmelee Homestead Creations in 2021. Specializing in jams, jellies, sauces, and salsas, the business also offers home canning lessons and seedlings for aspiring patio gardeners.

Adapting her farming techniques to Arkansas's distinct soil and climate was a challenge for Becky. She found innovative solutions, such as using compost and raised garden beds, to compensate for the less fertile ground. To further her business acumen, she participated in a local food-focused business program, gaining invaluable insights and resources.

At the core of her venture is a commitment to supporting local food systems. Parmelee Homestead Creations aims to provide high-quality products tailored to diverse dietary needs, like their vegan raspberry jam. Becky stresses the importance of community and accountability, valuing the role that organizations like local co-ops play in connecting consumers with farmers.

Though she misses the rich soil of her Iowa upbringing, Becky has wholeheartedly embraced her new life in the Ozarks. Through Parmley Homestead Creations, she continues to foster a love for home canning and gardening within her community.

• Discover the magic of Parmelee Homestead Creations' canning and engaging with local foods.
• Understand the immense value of supporting local farmers and businesses via co-ops.
• Uncover unique ways to adapt and adjust your business strategies in the face of challenges.
• Appreciate the role of The Co-Op in fostering community bonding and spreading educational endeavors.
• Grasp the importance of choosing sustainable and healthy food options for a better consumer experience.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods store in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to purchase jam, jelly, Sauce, and Salsas from Parmelee Homestead Creations.
• Embrace the valuable opportunity you've been given by indulging in the gift of canning lessons.
• Follow Parmelee Homestead Creations on Facebook.

Ozark Natural Foods

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“Our work begins with an approach that is grounded in curiosity and learning.”

- Shane Hart

In today's episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Shane Hart, a creative and branding consultant who helped revitalize a local Co-Op in Fayetteville. Shane, with his deep roots in the community and a personal connection to the Co-Op, was eager to tackle this significant project.

To understand the Co-Op's essence, Shane's team engaged in months of research. They spoke to a diverse group of stakeholders—board members, customers, vendors, and farmers—to grasp the unique history and values that defined the Co-Op.

What emerged was a revitalized brand that strikes a perfect balance: honoring its community-focused legacy while also attracting new members and shoppers. Shane's commitment to the project stemmed from recognizing the Co-Op's iconic status in Fayetteville, and his vision was instrumental in reestablishing it as a beloved institution.

Today, thanks to this thoughtful approach to branding and community engagement, the Co-Op remains an integral part of life in Fayetteville, successfully adapting to the evolving food market.

• Delve into the importance of community involvement in the realm of Co-Op success.
• Realize the diverse benefits that arise from supporting local farming and craftsmanship.
• Grasp the obstacles faced in branding and marketing co-operatives and effective methods to tackle them.
• Understand the impact of compelling narratives in engaging potential members.
• Explore how to adjust to evolving circumstances while preserving your Co-Op's cherished past.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Listen to Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op podcast to learn about the history and standards of quality of the Co-Op.
• Check out Black Box's website to learn more about their creative and branding consultancy services.
• Become a member of the Co-Op to support the community and have access to exclusive benefits.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
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• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

Please consider rating and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts or your Podcast player of choice. A little Love goes a long way.

“The Co-Op is still important to me. It's not just out of habit that I come back. There's something more about the Co-Op”.

- Rania Truelly

In this episode, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Rania Truelly, a former employee and dedicated member of the Ozark Natural Food Co-Op. Together, they unpack the riveting history of this Arkansas staple. Originating as a modest buying club back in 1971, the Co-Op had a simple mission: to provide wholesome, nutritious food to the local community.

Rania offers her unique insights into the Co-Op's evolution, detailing its journey from humble beginnings to its current standing as the largest food Co-Op in Arkansas. Don't miss this deep dive into an organization that has touched the lives of many in the community.

• Delve into the transformative journey of the Ozark Natural Foods co-op from a modest buying club to a thriving retail business.
• Empathize with the challenging hurdles this Co-Op maneuvered through during its ambitious relocation and growth phases.
• Appreciate the sense of community and belonging that the Co-Op has nurtured over the years while staying true to its roots.
• Recognize the Co-Op's unwavering dedication to superior-quality, organic food and sustainable practices.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods store in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
• Connect With Our Instagram
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• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

Please consider rating and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts or your Podcast player of choice. A little Love goes a long way.

“When you are really taking a painstaking approach to make sure the ingredients are of a high quality, the work and effort that goes into that are that much and it lasts a lot longer”.

- Stephanie Kirkpatrick

Stephanie Kirkpatrick, an entrepreneur with a knack for wholesome food, found her footing in Northwest Arkansas. She started with Bartleby's, a food truck renowned for its delicious, all-natural cutlet sandwiches. As the truck gained traction, Stephanie realized the need for a broader platform to reach more customers.

That's where Ozark Natural Foods Co-Op came in. This community-focused grocery store embraced Stephanie's vision, offering her products a coveted spot in their refrigerated section. The partnership couldn't have been more fruitful; Bartleby's items quickly became a hit among the Co-Op's clientele, who appreciated the quality and flavor of her offerings.

Now with a line of sauces and nuggets in the pipeline, Stephanie credits much of her success to the relationships and opportunities provided by the Co-Op. Her business is not just surviving, but thriving, thanks in part to the supportive and like-minded community that the Co-Op has cultivated.

• Unearth the importance of promoting local establishments in fostering communal development.
• Learn the gains of collaborative food marts in supporting fledgling businesses.
• Examine the variety of bulk provisions in grocery outlets that cater to diverse needs.
• Realize the obstacles encountered by small ventures owing to supply network disturbances.
• Be inspired by a triumphant account of a small business thriving via community backing.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods store in Fayetteville, Arkansas to purchase original breaded and spicy nuggets along with fan-favorite Bartleby Special sauce, vegan honey mustard, spicy sauce, and vegan ranch from Bartleby’s Food
• Connect with other local vendors, such as Ozark Natural Foods, The Coop Beverages, and SAP Top Farms to learn about small business growth and overcoming hurdles.
• Follow Bartleby’s Food on Facebook.

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“The Co-op is the best place to get the highest quality supplements and locally produced goods in Northwest Arkansas”.

- Danielle Dotson

In today's episode of Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op Podcast, we're thrilled to introduce our guests, Joshua Youngblood and Danielle Dotson. Both are dedicated Co-Op members and board members, passionate about sustainable and locally sourced food. Joshua's experience in Tallahassee, Florida, has given him valuable insights into the cooperative model, while Danielle's unwavering commitment to quality food and community access makes her a driving force on the board. Together, they bring a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to our conversation.

Join us as we delve into their stories, exploring the significance of supporting local and sustainable food choices. Their experiences and insights will undoubtedly inspire you to make a positive impact in your own community. Get ready for an enlightening discussion that emphasizes the importance of sustainable food options.

• Discover the power of community engagement in co-ops and how it can positively impact local neighborhoods.
• Uncover the crucial role of the board in shaping the future of co-ops and how their decisions can make a difference.
• Explore the commitment to sustainable and locally sourced food, and learn how it contributes to a healthier and more environmentally friendly community.
• Understand the challenges and opportunities faced by co-ops, and how they navigate through them to create thriving and resilient businesses.
• Delve into the value of preserving and sharing the rich history of co-ops, and how it connects us to our roots and builds a sense of belonging.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Listen to Ozark Natural Foods: The Co-Op podcast to learn about the history and standards of quality of the Co-Op.
• Embrace the valuable opportunity you've been given by indulging in the gift of canning lessons.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
• Connect With Our Instagram
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

Please consider rating and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts or your Podcast player of choice. A little Love goes a long way.

“The Co-Op is not just a grocery store, it's a place to connect with other people in the community”.

- Mark Laney

Marc Laney began his journey with Ozark Natural Foods Co-Op as a skeptical college student. Drawn in by the fresh produce, he quickly transformed from a casual customer to a dedicated employee.

While working at the Co-Op, Marc experienced a shift in perspective. He witnessed how the Co-Op prioritized values over profits, fostering a strong sense of community among its members. Unlike large corporations, Ozark's emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing has made it a hub for conscious consumers.

Marc's time at the Co-Op cemented his belief in the power of the cooperative model. Local partnerships and a focus on ethical sourcing make for a purchasing experience that's grounded in trust and pride.

Today, Marc isn't just an employee; he's a devoted member of a community that cherishes sustainability, ethical sourcing, and the betterment of its local environment.

• Discover the significance of supporting neighborhood farmers in creating a sustainable, quality-driven future.
• Apprehend the advantages of joining a Co-Op, such as cost savings and increased community engagement.
• Recognize the stringent safety measures Co-Ops took to weather the pandemic storm.
• Comprehend how the Co-Op model prioritizes ethical values over monetary gains, paving the way for a conscientious marketplace.
• Analyze the opportunities for ingenuity and progress offered by the collaborative nature of the Co-Op model.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods in Fayetteville to experience the community and locally sourced food.
• Check out the Taproom at Ozark Natural Foods for a variety of beverage options and prepared foods.
• Purchase organic and locally sourced produce and groceries from Ozark Natural Foods to support sustainable and healthy food practices.
• Connect with like-minded individuals at Ozark Natural Foods to build a stronger community around food and nutrition.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
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• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

“I'm going to work for the community, and I'm going to help build this business”.

- Mike Anzalone

In this episode, host Randy Wilburn talks to Mike Anzalone, whose connection to Ozark Natural Foods Co-Op began in childhood. Mike's health-conscious mother used to drive to great lengths just to shop at the Co-Op, little knowing that her son would one day play a pivotal role in the same organization.

After honing his skills at Trader Joe's and returning to Arkansas, Mike joined the Co-Op as a retail manager. Unbeknownst to him at the time, this was the same place that had left a lasting impression on him as a child. Mike's passionate leadership helped transform the Co-Op from a modest store into a thriving community hub, boasting its largest membership to date.

Mike's journey is not just a career story; it's a testament to the power of community and the cooperative business model. His relentless dedication to serving the Co-Op members has had a lasting impact, not only enriching his own life but also touching the lives of countless others in the community. Tune in to hear more about Mike's inspiring tale and the transformative power of committed leadership.

• Unearth the perks and member-driven nature of the cooperative business framework.
• Explore the rich history and growth of Ozark Natural Foods Co-Op.
• Realize the impact of supporting hometown farmers and the local economy.
• Gain insights into navigating industry shifts and overcoming competition hurdles.
• Delve into methods for broadening outreach and mitigating rural food scarcity.

All this and more on this episode of Ozark Natural Foods The Co-Op Podcast.

• Visit Ozark Natural Foods store in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

Ozark Natural Foods

• Grab our Newsletter
• Email Us at Info@ONF.Coop
• Connect With Our Facebook Page
• Join The Facebook Group
• Connect With Our Instagram
• Connect With Our LinkedIn Page
• Learn more about the History of Food Coops

Please consider rating and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts or your Podcast player of choice. A little Love goes a long way.