In this special episode of Food Stories: The Podcast, we sit down with Paula Ray, the soon-to-be-retired Operations Manager of the Northwest Ohio Cooperative Kitchen (NOCK), to reflect on nearly two decades of dedicated service. Paula shares the history of the NOCK, its transformative impact on the local and regional food industry, and the lessons learned from helping countless food entrepreneurs bring their visions to life.
From navigating regulatory hurdles to supporting small food businesses on their journey from farmers’ markets to store shelves, Paula’s insights highlight the NOCK’s role as a launching pad for dreams. We also discuss how the NOCK has evolved over the years, her proudest moments, and what’s next for Paula as she embarks on a well-deserved retirement.
Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation about passion, perseverance, and the profound impact of supporting small food businesses.