About the Show:
This episode is part of a special series supported by the Walton Family Foundation. Through their Home Region program, the Foundation is investing in the people and ideas shaping Northwest Arkansas—across housing, entrepreneurship, transportation, and leadership.
In this episode, we explore the world of local entrepreneurship and community-building with Lynn Wong and Mike Thompson of Pedal Pops and Pedal Park. Host Randy Wilburn sits down with Lynn and Mike to hear their journey from corporate careers and dreams of an ice cream shop to building a thriving local business serving all-natural fruit pops and ice creams in Farmington, AR. The conversation dives into the evolution of their business, their commitment to healthy and local ingredients, and how Pedal Park has grown into a true community hub, supporting fellow entrepreneurs and providing space for local food trucks, events, and gatherings.
Lynn and Mike share insights on working with local partners like Ozark Natural Foods and area breweries, developing creative flavors, navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and why community collaboration is at the heart of their work. Whether discussing pop-up collaboration with nonprofits, fostering a welcoming environment for all, or offering advice to aspiring small business owners, their story highlights the unique spirit of innovation and togetherness in Benton and Washington Counties.
Tune in for an inspiring look at how local ideas and partnerships are shaping the culture and economy of Northwest Arkansas, and learn how Pedal Pops and Pedal Park are making a sweet difference in the region!
Key Takeaways:
- Resilient Local Business: Pedal Pops grew from a kitchen experiment to a beloved local brand by focusing on all-natural ingredients, market feedback, and creative flavors tailored to what the community wants.
- Community Collaboration: Pedal Park operates as more than just a food truck park—it's a center for celebrating diversity, supporting fellow entrepreneurs, and fostering lasting relationships among small business owners.
- Innovation Meets Tradition: By reimagining nostalgic treats to be dairy-free and health-conscious, and by partnering with local brewers for boozy pops, the founders offer something for every palate and occasion.
- Inclusive Gathering Space: Pedal Park hosts trivia, bingo nights, live music, pop-up markets, and events like “Theology on Tap,” cementing its role as Farmington’s go-to place for connection, creativity, and local flavor.
- Inspired Entrepreneurship: Mike and Lynn share candid advice for new business owners, spotlight area resources like EforAll, Startup Junkie, and commercial kitchens, and encourage others to take “baby steps” and build on the region’s collaborative spirit.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Pedal Pops & Pedal Park
- Website: pedalpops.com
- Food Truck Park Info: pedalparknwa.com
- Address: 169 West Main Street, Farmington, AR 72730
- Ozark Natural Foods – Longstanding wholesale partner and champion for local producers.
- EforAll, Startup Junkie, AFIC @ Market Center of the Ozarks, Bartleby’s Kitchen, ASBTDC – Find resources for Northwest Arkansas entrepreneurs.
- Canopy NWA & Inspired Hands Bakery – Pop-up vendors and community partners.
- Other Food Trucks at Pedal Park: Yummy Yangs, Curry and Go, El Jefe Taqueria, Daisy and Dois (Cajun eats)
- Shoutouts: Black Apple Cider, Neal Family Farms, local breweries and cideries.
- Farmington United Methodist Church – Theology on Tap hosts.
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by*
The Walton Family Foundation
About the Walton Family FoundationThe Walton Family Foundation is, at its core, a family-led foundation. Three generations of the descendants of founders Sam and Helen Walton, and their spouses, work together to lead the foundation and create access to opportunity for people and communities. The foundation works in three areas: improving education, protecting rivers and oceans and the communities they support, and investing in the home region of Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas–Mississippi Delta.
Hear all of the episodes from this series right HERE
Learn more at waltonfamilyfoundation.org
*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 I am Northwest Arkansas podcast episode. We showcase businesses, culture, entrepreneurship, and life in the Ozarks.
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Mentioned in this episode:
ONBoardNWA.com
Looking for your next career move in Northwest Arkansas? Check out ONBoardNWA.com, the hyper-local job board designed to connect job seekers with leading employers in our community. From entry-level positions to executive roles, ONBoardNWA is your one-stop shop for job opportunities right here in NWA. Take the next step in your career and visit ONBoardNWA.com today.
FindItNWA.com
Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"
FindItNWA.com
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
