I Am Northwest Arkansas® Spicing Up Arkansas: Multicultural Entrepreneurial Journeys with Randy and Shauna Pulayya
About the Show:
"When life gives you peppers, we make pepper sauce."
– Randy Pulayya
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Randy and Shauna Pulayya, the husband-and-wife founders of West Indies Peppa Sauce. Their story begins with a chance encounter at JFK airport and unfolds into a thriving food brand that beautifully weaves together Guyanese and Vietnamese heritage. Through authentic family recipes and a deep commitment to preserving food culture, the Pulayyas have built something truly special.
From navigating unexpected job layoffs on milestone birthdays to launching their brand full-time, Randy and Shauna share the setbacks and breakthroughs that shaped their journey. Drawing inspiration from their travels across 60 countries, they've brought their passion for authenticity and grit to every bottle. Listeners will hear about their early production days at the Arkansas Food Innovation Center (AFIC), the challenges of scaling their business, and how they've landed on grocery shelves from Florida to Northwest Arkansas. Their story is a powerful reminder of what's possible when you lean on community resources, show up authentically, and share the flavors of home with the world.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about entrepreneurship, food culture, and the inspiring spirit of Northwest Arkansas.
Key Takeaways:
- Authenticity Matters: Randy and Shauna credit their success to sharing their real selves and family stories with their customers, making their brand relatable and memorable.
- Food Culture Preservation: WIPS was born from a mission to protect and share the vibrant food traditions of the Caribbean and West Indies, as well as Vietnamese flavors.
- Community Resources: The Arkansas Food Innovation Center played a vital role in helping them scale production and connect with local food entrepreneurs.
- Embracing Risk and Reinvention: Both Randy and Shauna were laid off from corporate jobs, but they embraced entrepreneurship with hope and perseverance.
- Family and Faith: Their blended family and values keep them grounded, grateful, and focused on building a legacy for their kids.
- Power of Connection: Attending events in Northwest Arkansas and joining new programs like the Madam C.J. Walker Boot Camp are just some ways they continue to grow through relationships.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Website: Shop WIPS – Official West Indies Pepper Sauce online store
- Social Media: @ShopWIPS on Instagram
- Facebook: Connect with WIPS
- LinkedIn: WIPS
- Buy WIPS on Amazon
- Connect with Randy and Shauna on LinkedIn
- Arkansas Food Innovation Center (AFIC)
- Sprouts Farmers Market – Find WIPS in select Florida locations
- Madam C.J. Walker Boot Camp
- Jesse Itzler
- Triive – Emerging retail brand partner in NWA
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
*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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- Connect with our Fearless Host, Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn
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:
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
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"
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