About the Show:
“We always feel like we’re working very hard… I think we feel immensely grateful to have ended up in Northwest Arkansas.”
- Lacie Bray
About the Guest:
Lacie Bray is a co-owner and visionary behind Ozark Beer Company, a craft brewery based in the Ozarks, celebrating the intersection of traditional brewing styles and community building. Together with her husband, Andy Coates, they founded Ozark Beer Company in 2013, which is renowned for its sustainable brewing practices and local engagement. Lacie boasts a rich background intertwined with the ethos of the Ozarks, childhood roots in Northwest Arkansas, and diverse experiences from Colorado to Chicago. Her passion lies in creating spaces that mirror and serve the community’s preferences and values.
Episode Summary:
This episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast welcomes Lacie Bray from Ozark Beer Company, as she shares the profound journey of entrepreneurship, community engagement, and brewing innovation in the heart of the Ozarks. Listeners are taken on a tale of the brewery’s genesis from an idea born amidst the scenic beauty of Walla Walla, Washington, to a flourishing community staple in downtown Rogers, Arkansas.
At the core of the conversation is the unique beer philosophy of Ozark Beer Company. Lacie delves into their focus on traditional brewing styles, sustainable practices, and responsiveness to community tastes – from their core beers to the introduction of kombucha on tap. The episode illuminates Ozark Beer Company’s commitment to authenticity, local engagement, and creating a gathering place that extends beyond the brewing of beer. Optimized with SEO keywords like “craft beer,” “sustainable brewing,” and “community-focused brewery,” these summaries encapsulate the brand’s mission and the personal touch that Lacie brings to her work.
Key Takeaways:
- Ozark Beer Company is deeply rooted in the local community of Northwest Arkansas, reflecting the region’s values and culture through its brewery and taproom.
- The brewing philosophy at Ozark is grounded in traditional styles while remaining responsive to emerging trends and community preferences.
- Sustainability is key for Ozark Beer Company, from the use of cans due to their recyclability to partnerships for grain repurposing and storm drain education.
- The brewery was strategically established in an area known for welcoming new laws favorable for breweries, post-dry county status, and enhancing the local craft beer scene.
- Ozark Beer Company actively creates a gathering space for the community, hosting events, partnering with local organizations, and emphasizing local support through its small yet impactful team.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show:
Website for Ozark Beer Company
Ozark Beer Company on Facebook
Ozark Beer Company on Instagram
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday both at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by:
Signature Bank of Arkansas “Community Banking at its Best!”
Northwest Arkansas Council – “Life Works Here!”
ONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWA
Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Thank you for listening to this episode of the I am Northwest Arkansas podcast. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and everyday people’s lives, making Northwest Arkansas what it is today.