Meet this white-collar worker turned farmstead cheese maker

Photo Courtesy: Boss Mouse Cheese

(KINGLSEY, Mich.) Trying something new is something many people have considered or done since the COVID-19 pandemic began. 

For some, their hobbies have turned into businesses or careers. 

As is the case with one northern Michigan woman, who turned something she's passionate about into her business. 

Sue Kurta makes 100 pounds of cheese a week on her historic farm in Kingsley. 

She was able to turn "Boss Mouse Cheese" into a full-time business in 2014.  

"How did I know I liked cheese?" said Kurta. "I didn’t. I took a wine and cheese class and I was like wow I’d like to try making this at home."

Kurta started experimenting with cheese in 2007 while she was living and working on the east coast. 

Next, an apprenticeship on an organic goat farm in rural Maine. 

In 2010, she decided to move back to her home state of Michigan and ended up in the northern region of the state. 

In 2011, Kurta found a job at Haggerty but spent her evenings making cheese and perfecting her craft. 

"I just really enjoy it and it still interesting to me," said Kurta. "You make 'em and you put 'em in the cheese cave and you kinda watch them become this thing over time. And that’s... I’m still fascinated by it.”

Kurta has experience working in corporate America and worked at Citigroup and in the music industry while living in New York City. 

Since starting "Boss Mouse Cheese", she says people who are curious about trying something new or making a career or life change sometimes come to her for advice. 

Kurta is a firm believer that's important for everyone to find things they like to do even if it doesn't become a career. 

"I would say throw a stone in the water," said Kurta. "Try something. Just try a thing. Look every community everywhere has classes."

For people who are hesitant to try something new, Kurta says don't sell yourself short.

"It is your almost obligation to yourself to chase stuff that you like to do despite anyone’s objections or criticism,” she said. 

Kurta also says it's okay if you don't like the first thing you try or you have to work hard to perfect a new skill. 

"If you don’t keep having fails you’re probably not trying anything new," said Kurta. "I’ve had some big fails. Trust me I’ve thrown away a lot of cheese."

"Boss Mouse Cheese" is sold to local restaurants, farmers markets, and caterers. 

You can also join their cheese and wine club online. 

If you would like to learn more about "Boss Mouse Cheese", visit their website.