Kicking Off 2025 with Purpose and Pork...

Featured Brand - Lottie's Meats

Interview with the Founder:Cassie Maschhoff

What inspired you to start your business?

Lottie's was born out of a deep connection to my roots. Growing up on a sixth-generation family pork farm in rural Illinois, I always felt tied to the world of agriculture. My sister Chelsea, a talented chef, started using our family’s pork in her restaurants and experimenting with premium sausage blends. At the same time, I was exploring a transition from tech and business school into something more fulfilling. We realized we had the opportunity to reintroduce pork in an innovative, socially responsible way, blending our family’s agricultural legacy with a fresh, modern perspective. The result was Lottie's, named after our family, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since.

What has been the hardest thing about running the business?

There are so many challenges, but one that stands out is navigating the legacy systems in the meat industry. Everything moves slower than I anticipated, from USDA co-packers to cold chain logistics. On top of that, Chelsea and I are often learning as we go, facing steep learning curves in both CPG and meat-specific industries. It can feel overwhelming, especially as women entering a space that has traditionally been dominated by legacy players. But we tackle these challenges with grit and determination, learning from each setback and celebrating every win.

What is the best part about running the business?

The community, hands down. Chelsea and I have been lucky to work with amazing chefs, customers, and partners, especially in Denver, where we launched. Whether it’s a brewery pop-up, a pizzeria collaboration, or a farmers' market event, these moments allow us to connect with people who genuinely enjoy our products. Seeing how Lottie's brings joy and creativity to people’s kitchens is incredibly fulfilling. It’s also fun to work side-by-side with Chelsea, blending her culinary talents with my love for storytelling and branding.

What is the best tech you have recently used?

We rely heavily on the Google Suite for collaboration, and their new Gemini AI capabilities have been a game-changer. It makes summarizing, automating, and organizing information so much easier. Another essential tool for us is Canva. It’s intuitive, versatile, and allows us to create beautiful marketing materials without needing a graphic designer. Whether it’s pitch decks, spec sheets, or social media content, Canva has been indispensable for keeping Lottie's looking sharp and professional.

Why do you do what you do?

For me, it’s about purpose and fulfillment. After years in tech, I wanted to do something that felt meaningful and connected to my roots. Lottie’s lets me shine a light on an often-overlooked industry and the hardworking families within it. We’re passionate about showing that agriculture isn’t just about mass production—it’s about community, quality, and care. The lows of running a business never outweigh the highs of creating something we believe in and seeing the impact it has on others. It’s challenging, yes, but it’s also the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.