Boss in the Bay State: Catherine Lothrop

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Introduce yourself! Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Catherine Lothrop, and my family and I just opened an ice cream shop in Middleboro, MA named Joyful Scoops. I am originally from Windham, ME and moved to Middleboro, where my husband is from, in 2015. I am an elementary teacher who had a vision to start a new career path back in 2020 when Covid had hit our world in a hard way. It has been nothing shy of a miracle that my vision became a reality. I have been honored and grateful to serve our community here in Middleboro, MA with some ice cream and more importantly, to spread joy, light, and love into the lives of those who come for a visit.

What made you want to start your business?

As I sat down one morning in July of 2020 life was very difficult. We were in the midst of covid and I was pondering what my legacy was. God made it clear that I was to spread joy, light, and love to the people around me during such a difficult time. The words ICE CREAM were also made clear. At the time I had no idea what that meant, but as time went by many things began to happen that allowed this dream and vision to become a reality. Here we are 3 years later with a beautiful ice cream shop, spreading joy, light, and love, one scoop at a time.

What do you love the most about working in Massachusetts?

We absolutely LOVE our community. Massachusetts is a wonderful place to be, and Middleboro is amazing. Our community always comes together to show support and to help whenever there is a need. Middleboro is supportive of their local businesses and always willing to lend a helping hand. We have the best community, and we are extremely thankful to be a part of it and to serve the awesome people who live here and who travel from other parts of our state to support Joyful Scoops.

What are your favorite small businesses to support in Massachusetts?

Tateo Organics, Beulah’s Bakery, Lolans Farm and many others!!

What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?

Well, we just opened in May and have a lot to learn, but my biggest lesson in life throughout my many careers has been to love one another and to be kind. We just don’t know what other people have been through and the world needs more kindness, love, and joy! To care about people is the best thing we can do. I have it posted on the wall in my shop. It is a reminder for all of us to spread joy, shine light, and to love one another. I also have several ice cream cones on the building with positive quotes and sayings. We want to spread goodness and positivity all around us.

If you weren’t in your current position, what would your next dream job be?

I am in my dream job now! It isn’t always easy, but it is a vision that was given to me and it is truly what I feel I am being called to do. I will work hard, persevere, and keep pushing, no matter what challenges may arise.

When you’re not working, what activities do you enjoy?

I love being a mom and raising my children. We have homeschooled off and on for many years. We also live on a small farm and we enjoy all of the adventures the farm life brings. I enjoy being athletic in my spare time and working out at the YMCA. I truly love visiting with my family and friends and always enjoy lending a helping hand. Being from Maine, I love going back to the ocean to our family’s camp and taking some time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Thank you for sharing more about yourself! Tell us how we can get in touch with you or find you online.

You can learn more about Joyful Scoops via our Facebook page.