Show Notes
In 2014 Jeff Bednar and his wife, Lee, were looking to make a career decision that would have a profound impact on their family, so they started Profound Microfarms on 2.6 acres just three miles away in Lucas, Texas. The farm property has 17,000 square feet of controlled environment greenhouse space growing leafy greens, culinary herbs, edible flowers and microgreens. Since then, they've also started two more businesses — Profound Foods & Profound Kitchen, and what began as a venture to normalize their working hours as their young children grew has not only had the impact they initially intended but has become even more profound than they imagined. Thanks to sticking with their initial mission of "farmers helping farmers" as the world encountered the Covid-19 crisis, they have managed to adjust their business model to grow and evolve the latter two businesses over the past two years. Locating two of the businesses in Fairview has had a critical role in that success, and their entire story is a lesson in drawing upon simple, solid values and choosing to innovate in the face of adversity.
The Bednars started the second business, Profound Foods, about 18 months ago, distributing to restaurants all the products from their farm along with those of a small network of fellow farmers in the area who specialize in beef, chicken, eggs and soil vegetables. That idea came from Jeff volunteering to run a friend's chicken order to a Dallas restaurant where he already had a scheduled delivery. The chef pointed out how convenient that was for everyone involved, and a lightbulb went off. By the time Covid occurred, they were collectively selling to 25 restaurants, and thanks to a USDA grant, that number grew to more than 130. When restaurants had to close, they pivoted to a retail model within a week, reinventing their packaging and workflow to safely deliver their goods to households.
As word grew, so did their producer network, which diversified their product variety with many goods that wouldn't fly at the wholesale level. They more than doubled their producer network and were also able to donate surplus wholesale goods to the community as they shifted the business model. Then they launched yet another business concept, Profound Kitchen, which grew from producers bringing them end-of-season goods that shouldn't go to waste. For example, when life gave them cases and cases of peaches, they figured out how to turn them into jam, peach barbecue sauce, and dehydrated peach chips. Between the three businesses combined, they've also been able to provide jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities to chefs who were suddenly unemployed because of restaurant closures. For example, celebrated Dallas Chef Nick Walker came on board and has launched 60 products over the past seven months.
Profound Foods and Profound Kitchen are now located in a former restaurant space in Fairview Town Center, where they enjoy convenient access to I-75 and manage food storage and distribution from the back of house and offer food-focused private events and classes in front. Learn more about the businesses and the Bednar family in this episode, and be sure to check out profoundfoods.com for details about products, services and events.
More from Getting Neighborly -- Town of Fairview
In this episode, Dave welcomes Laura Johnson, Executive Director of the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center in Lucas, TX. With her unique background in animal behavior, business, and conservation, Laura walks us through the vital work her organization does rehabilitating injured raptors—birds of prey like hawks, owls, and eagles—while also shedding light on the efforts to protect the endangered Blackland Prairie ecosystem right in our backyard. From the surprising costs of bird rehabilitation to the essential role raptors play in keeping our communities healthy, Laura shares how passionate staff and hundreds of volunteers work tirelessly to support wildlife. Plus, we'll learn practical ways residents can get involved, from building pocket prairies to volunteering, and hear inspiring stories about connecting kids and adults alike to nature. Whether you're a longtime resident or just discovering the unique neighborly spirit of our area, this episode will open your eyes to the wild side of North Texas—and why it's worth protecting. To find out more, visit: https://bpraptorcenter.org/ Key Topics Discussed: Laura Johnson's professional and educational background, blending animal behavior science and business
"Super" Dave welcomes Carrie Campbell, founder of Mane Mentors, to share her story about transitioning from a corporate insurance career in Los Angeles to starting a purpose-driven equine mentorship program in Fairview, Texas. Carrie Campbell explains how the COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a major life change for her and her husband, leading them to relocate to North Texas, embrace small-town living, and follow her lifelong passion for horses. Now serving the adult disability community, Carrie Campbell blends horsemanship, holistic biomechanics, and mindset practices to help neurodiverse individuals reconnect with their bodies and build confidence, all set within a serene and supportive barn environment. They discuss the unique aspects of running a business in Fairview, including the welcoming, collaborative nature of the community, and the inclusive spirit that supports newcomers and small businesses alike. Carrie Campbell describes both the challenges and rewards of launching a business rooted in heart and personal passion, emphasizing the importance of continually reaffirming one's purpose. The conversation highlights the value of showing up, making connections, and the impact that mentorship and animal-assisted experiences can have on people of all ages and abilities. To find out more about Mane Mentors, visit: https://www.manementors.com/
"Super" Dave welcomes Meg Latham, Director of Stewardship at the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary. Meg shares what it was like growing up on the sanctuary after her father, Dr. Harold Laughlin, became the museum's first director, hired by founder Miss Bessie Heard, who created the preserve to protect a piece of Collin County and educate children as development spread. They discuss the Heard's mission, 289-acre sanctuary, trails, seasonal wildlife viewing, and popular features like the animatronic dinosaur trail. Meg explains stewardship work, including community relationships, fundraising, and corporate volunteer projects, plus education programs, field trips, citizen science, and research partnerships, including bird banding and FrogWatch. To learn more about the museum, visit: https://www.heardmuseum.org/ Key Topics Discussed: Growing up at the Heard Museum How Meg's Family Arrived Meg's Career Path Stewardship Role Explained Nature Lessons and Conservatory Why the Heard Is More Than Just Family Fun
"Super" Dave sits down with Paula Phillips, a licensed occupational therapist and founder of Calibrating Lyfe in Fairview, Texas. Paula shares her extensive experience of over 20 years in the field, highlighting her passion for proactive, holistic approaches to health and quality of life. She discusses how her medical background shaped her understanding that too many individuals and families only react to health crises rather than taking meaningful prevention steps. This realization led her to create Calibrating Lyfe, where she works both with individuals and organizations to help them anticipate, prepare for, and navigate health transitions with confidence. They discuss the practical advice for maintaining long-term wellbeing, including the importance of hydration, healthy diet, balance, flexibility, and emotional health. Paula emphasizes the often-overlooked links between physical health, mental wellness, and social engagement, advocating for a comprehensive plan that supports independence and quality of life as we age. She also discusses common misconceptions about occupational therapy, the value of quality of life planning for business owners and families, and simple steps that anyone can take today to reduce future health risks. The episode is rounded out with reflections on community, advice for neighborly support, and practical recommendations for listeners to start recalibrating their lives. Key Topics Discussed: Paula's journey into occupational therapy and her Texas roots
Dave welcomes Jonathan Price, owner of theMagazine, a local bi-monthly magazine that focuses on celebrating life in Fairview and Lucas, Texas. Jonathan shares his passion for community-building through print media, explaining why he believes print still matters in a digital world. He talks about the magazine's role as a modern-day "front porch," helping residents connect on a deeper level with their neighbors, local businesses, and the various stories that make their community unique. Throughout the conversation, Dave and Jonathan discuss topics like the importance of fostering genuine community connections in an increasingly fast-paced and private world. Jonathan also discusses how the magazine goes beyond simple advertising by forming genuine partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits, aiming to create impactful stories that resonate throughout the community. He shares anecdotes about the power of local storytelling and why "the power of one" is at the heart of what he does—believing that even if one person is impacted, his work is a success. Key Topics Discussed: The continuing relevance and impact of print media in a digital landscape