We had the good fortune of connecting with Shea Bullock and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shea, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Our business allows us to introduce the community to plant based food that is reminiscent of the comfort foods many of us grew up eating. We have helped so many people transition to a healthier lifestyle and that’s the ultimate goal. If we can shift the way others view plant based foods, we can get them to be open to making changes.

My favorite part of running my business so far was providing meals once a week to a local summer camp.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I think my heart for the community sets me apart from others in my field. I don’t just cook because I’m good at it but I want to change the way my community views good food. I want them to know that we can eat good food without compromising health. I started cooking plant based food in my moms kitchen. I would make some food and people would order for pickup. Then I transitioned to using commercial kitchens once a week to sell my food. I did that until I could afford my own building. It wasn’t an easy journey for me but the struggles I faced helped build my resilience. Anytime I felt down or overwhelmed, I affirmed to myself that I’m capable of greatness and no single struggle would define me. I want the world to know that if you have a dream and put the work behind it, you can achieve greatness. Believe in yourself and invest in yourself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was to visit here, I’d take her for coffee in the morning at the Sunflour Cafe. Then we would take our kids to the Exploration Place. After that we’d go for a swim at Rock River Rapids Waterpark. For lunch, I’d probably take her to lunch at the park with Wheat Street vegan hot dog cart. I’d try to catch a comedy show at the Looney Bin. And for dinner we would definitely have to get some VietNom-Nom vegan Vietnamese cuisine. We both like to be outside so we would finish the day with a walk around the Keeper of the Plains.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to shoutout my parents for always encouraging me to follow my dreams and for affirming that I can do anything I put my mind to. To my brothers for always being test tasters and biggest supporters. My fiancé also deserves a shoutout because without him I would’ve never had the courage to open a restaurant. Lastly, I’d like to shoutout the Graham family for being some of biggest supporters and great friends.

Instagram: @sheassolkitchen

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sheassolkitchen

Image Credits
Photo Credit to Maleeka Sumpter with Visionary Photography

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