Jodie Redfern brings hospitality, heart, and a healthy dose of humor to Downtown Greeley. In this episode of the Greeley Business Beat, we sit down with Jodie, co-owner of The Cow Saloon and Eatery, to hear how a well-timed April Fool’s Day opportunity turned into a beloved community gathering place.

Originally called “The Mad Cow,” the restaurant got its start 15 years ago thanks to a friend of Jodie’s. Fast forward to today, and it’s grown into a full-service eatery serving everything from hearty sandwiches to prime rib dinners and handcrafted cocktails. Jodie shares how her background in customer service laid the groundwork for a successful transition to restaurant ownership, how she survived a keg-related beer shower, and why downtown Greeley’s energy and camaraderie keep her inspired every day.

Key Highlights: 

  • [00:06:14] From Menswear to Mouthwatering Food
    Jodie’s journey includes everything from paging systems and high-end menswear to mortgage lending. But at the heart of it all was hospitality—making people feel good. That service mindset, combined with a love for taking care of others, made restaurant ownership a natural next step.

  • [00:04:00] An April Fool’s Day Surprise
    Jodie and her husband Ron bought the restaurant on April 1, 2021—intentionally. The announcement shocked friends and customers, many of whom thought it was just a prank. With their daughter and son-in-law also involved, the family-run operation thrives on collaboration and creativity.

  • [00:09:23] Honoring a Legacy, Elevating the Menu
    Jodie kept many of the sandwich names from the original owners—like “The Nene Your Way” and “Mary T”—paying homage to local legends while expanding offerings to include prime rib dinners, cocktails, and more.

  • [00:11:29] Growing Together, Not Competing
    Jodie reflects on Greeley’s unique downtown dynamic, where business owners support one another. With new restaurants moving in, she believes more options mean more people—and more success for everyone.

  • [00:14:00] Kegs, Leaks, and Lessons Learned
    From leaky ceilings to beer showers while learning to change a keg, Jodie embraces the joys and challenges of owning a historic building. Her willingness to jump in and learn it all—even the messy parts—shows her deep commitment to the business.

Rapid Fire Questions: 

  • Pickle or no pickle? Pickle (Ron is a no!)

  • Chips or fries? Chips.

  • Soup or salad? Both—depending on the soup.

  • Beer or wine? Wine.

  • Whiskey or beer? Beer.

  • Burger or chicken? Burger.

  • Veggie burger or Tofurky? “Neither—this is Weld County!”

About The Cow Saloon and Eatery:
Located in the heart of Downtown Greeley, The Cow Saloon and Eatery blends historic character with modern flair. Offering handcrafted sandwiches, prime rib dinners, a full cocktail bar, and an event space upstairs, it’s a local favorite with deep roots and forward-thinking vision. Whether you're craving lunch, dinner, or a nightcap, The Cow delivers comfort food and community connection in equal measure.

Learn more: Visit The Cow Saloon and Eatery in Downtown Greeley for lunch, dinner, or special events.

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The Greeley Business Beat is brought to you by the City of Greeley in collaboration with 1K Creative. Learn more about what makes Greeley a vibrant and welcoming community at VisitGreeley.com. 

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