By Kristine Hansen, Hywania Thompson and Hannah Wente | Photography by Hillary Schave
Madison has a wealth of female food entrepreneurs, whether they’re whipping up tasty treats or keeping Native food traditions alive. While their food may taste good, here’s the story behind each bite.
Elena Terry: Preservation, Advocacy and Food
With a goal to provide mentorship for Indigenous chefs and food professionals, Elena Terry founded the nonprofit Wild Bearies in 2019.
“There are a lot of life skills learned in the kitchen space,” says Terry, an enrolled member of the Ho-Chunk Nation.
Lacy Rude: From Kombucha to a Café
Lacy Rude has been part of the local food and beverage community for years as owner of Rude Brew Kombucha. Her newly-opened Lacy’s Café supports and serves local producers.
Jeanne Carpenter: Cheese Tales
Jeanne Carpenter worked in the artisan cheese industry for years, and she wove in her knowledge of high-quality cheeses in the menu at Firefly Coffeehouse, the Oregon coffeehouse she co-owns.
Marie Raboin: The Fruits of Her Success
Marie Raboin and her husband, Matt, launched Brix Cider in 2017. Two years later, their tasting room and cidery opened in Mount Horeb.
“Part of our mission and our value is supporting sustainable agriculture,” says Marie.
Linda Smith: Dreamy Treats
After buying cakes for her daughter’s birthday parties over the years, Linda Smith started baking her own cakes — which kicked off her passion for baking, and ultimately starting her own side business, Sensational Sweetz.
Padmini Chintakayala: Cuisine That Connects
In 2022, Chintakayala and her husband, Raj Peddapati, launched Nommli, a combination meal and cultural experience subscription box.
“What’s the best way to connect people, other than through culture and food?” muses Chintakayala.
