In this episode, Jackie from Virgo Rising Coffee shares her journey in the coffee industry, her mission to build an eco-friendly and vegan-friendly business, the challenges of starting a coffee business, innovative coffee trends, collaboration with local bakeries, and plans for expansion and collaboration with a coffee roaster. The conversation covers the challenges of outdoor events, business flexibility, overcoming overwhelm, social media marketing, engaging content, the power of social media for business growth, diverse social media content, promoting small businesses, unique drink creations, customer engagement, coffee preferences, and closing thoughts with event information.

Takeaways

• Passion for eco-friendly and vegan-friendly coffee business
• Challenges and lessons in starting a coffee business Flexibility is key for outdoor events
• Engaging social media content drives customer engagement and business growth

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction to Virgo Rising Coffee and Jackie's mission

01:10 - The origin of the name Virgo Rising and branding inspiration

02:21 - Eco-friendly practices: compostable cups, vegan ingredients, and local sourcing

03:42 - Customer reactions to vegan and non-dairy milk options

04:56 - Jackie's journey from Starbucks to coffee entrepreneur

06:53 - Farmers markets, private events, and future storefront plans

08:49 - Business setup: costs, regulations, and lessons learned

11:02 - Collaborating with local roasters and sharing spaces to reduce costs

12:16 - Menu innovation: house-made syrups, seasonal drinks, and trending trends

13:42 - Creativity inspired by local bakeries and bakery collaborations

19:53 - Customer favorites: vegan custard drinks and Midnight Chant

23:03 - Coffee preferences and tasting black coffee notes

24:43 - Future expansion ideas and ongoing goals for Virgo Rising

25:02 - Funding hurdles and small business loans

26:49 - The flexibility of mobile and event-based coffee service

28:43 - Using social media for marketing and community engagement

36:26 - Jackie's tips for new coffee entrepreneurs and staying inspired

Resources & Links:

Sun and Moon Coffee Roasting

• Virgo Rising Coffee Website
• Nostalgia Bakery
• Flower Bender Bakery Troy
• Brutus Roasting
• Social Media: Virgo Rising Coffee on Instagram
• YouTube Channel - Virgo Rising Coffee

Connect with Jackie:

• Instagram
• YouTube
• Website

Tune in next time for more stories and insights from coffee industry pioneers!

The future of coffee isn’t about size or scale — it’s about culture, community, and authenticity. Local coffee shops are redefining what loyalty means in an era where experience outshines convenience. If you're tired of cookie-cutter chains and want to understand how small shops and creators are shaping the next coffee revolution, this episode is your must-listen.In a world dominated by efficiency and endless options, local coffee shops are winning by focusing on connection, storytelling, and speed. We explore how these independent spots pivot quickly to trends, craft memorable experiences, and leverage TikTok and social media to boost their reach — often with just a DM. Discover the surprising reasons why culture, not products, is the real competitive edge in 2026 and beyond.You'll learn:

• Why emotional connection and community engagement matter more than ever in building loyalty.
• How independent coffee creators are driving viral content that shifts revenue overnight.
• The fastest ways shops can innovate with signature drinks, storytelling, and local partnerships.
• Why the experience economy is forcing even big brands to rethink what customers truly want.
• The upcoming trends that will define the next wave of coffee culture, including specialty roasters and niche concepts.

This isn’t just about coffee — it’s about building authentic relationships that last. If you're a shop owner, a creator, or a coffee lover who believes in the power of community, understanding these shifts can elevate your game and secure your place in the new coffee landscape.The stakes are high: those who adapt and embrace culture over scale will lead the pack in 2026. Whether you're brewing, branding, or buying, your choices shape the future of coffee communities everywhere.Join us to uncover why local coffee is more than a trend — it’s a movement. Hit play and get inspired to create loyalty that lasts far beyond the cup.

summary

In this engaging conversation, Traci Page, the owner of Karma Coffee, shares her unique journey from being a personal trainer to running a successful coffee shop. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating the coffee industry, especially during the pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of community support and social media in growing her business. Traci also delves into the significance of Karma Coffee's name, the creation of signature drinks, and the impact of corporate coffee chains on local businesses. The conversation highlights the innovative approaches to coffee offerings, including themed flights and in-house syrups, showcasing the passion and creativity behind Karma Coffee. In this engaging conversation, Traci Page shares her journey in the coffee business, discussing the intricacies of crafting unique coffee experiences, her personal coffee preferences, and the challenges of running a small business. She emphasizes the importance of customer relationships and creating a welcoming coffee culture, while also exploring unconventional coffee trends and the art of espresso. Traci's passion for coffee and commitment to quality shine through as she navigates the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

takeaways

Traci transitioned from personal training to coffee ownership.

Karma Coffee was inspired by a need for a local coffee shop.

Social media has been crucial for business growth.

Community support helped Karma Coffee thrive during COVID-19.

The name 'Karma Coffee' reflects a philosophy of giving back.

Signature drinks are a key part of Karma Coffee's identity.

Local roasting partnerships enhance the coffee experience.

Innovative coffee flights attract customers and create excitement.

Corporate chains pose challenges for local coffee shops.

In-house syrups elevate the quality of drinks at Karma Coffee. Every morning I get there early to prepare syrups.

We bake all of our stuff in-house from scratch.

I fell in love with cappuccino during my trip to Europe.

We test our espresso shots every morning for quality.

It's important to balance flavors in coffee drinks.

I encourage customers to give us a chance to make things right.

We are in the business of people, serving coffee.

Seek out local coffee shops for a better experience.

I want to ensure our customers feel welcomed and valued.

Consistency and cleanliness are key to our success.

Social Media

Karma Koffee

IG:https://www.instagram.com/karma_koffee?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@karmakoffee?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Traci Page and Karma Coffee

05:58 Navigating Social Media for Business Growth

12:08 The Philosophy Behind Karma Coffee's Name

18:04 The Art of Coffee: Crafting the Perfect Brew

30:07 Innovative Flight Concepts

35:30 The Impact of Corporate Chains

42:51 Crafting Unique Coffee Experiences

48:15 Personal Coffee Preferences and Trends

57:23 Exploring Unique Flavor Combinations

01:06:41 The Importance of Customer Interaction

01:19:04 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

The podcast delves into the challenges and strategies for creating engaging coffee content, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, education, and building brand trust. It explores the transition from content to brand, sustainable growth, leveraging coffee shops for content, and the long-term approach to content creation.

Takeaways

• Storytelling over visuals
• Educating builds authority

Send a text

Building a Coffee Brand: Unay's Journey from Coffee Lover to Swamp Water Roasting Owner

In this episode of Behind the Roast Podcast, host Joseph is joined by Unai from Swamp Water Roasting to discuss the intricacies of building and running a successful coffee brand. Unay shares his personal journey from being a lifelong coffee enthusiast from Venezuela to owning a micro-roasting business in the US. The conversation covers various topics including sourcing and roasting, expanding the business, navigating social media for growth, and the importance of content collaboration. Unay also provides insights into his future plans for Swamp Water Roasting and his ambitions to open a commercial space that serves coffee and offers educational classes.

Follow: Swamp Water Roasting And Centralfldude

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@swampwaterroasting?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@centralfldude?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

IG: https://www.instagram.com/centralfldude?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Website: https://swampwaterroasting.com

Follow: Thedailybrewreview

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedailybrewreview?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

IG: https://www.instagram.com/centralfldude?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thedailybrewreviewer?si=QXWmvzKssnsYpLhu

00:00 Introduction to Behind the Roast Podcast

00:35 Meet Unay: From Venezuela to Coffee Entrepreneur

01:26 Starting Small: The Journey of Swamp Water Roasting

02:14 The Power of Social Media in Coffee Branding

03:30 Content Creation: Tips and Challenges

09:52 Navigating Brand Collaborations

11:07 The Coffee Community and Roasting Techniques

17:54 Future Plans and New Coffee Ventures

22:51 Fun and Unique Coffee Labels

25:25 Sourcing and Roasting Coffee Beans

26:37 Challenges and Rewards of Coffee Roasting

33:35 Creative Collaborations and Content Creation

38:08 Future Plans and Community Engagement

42:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Send us a text

Exploring the World of Coffee with Alejo: The Coffee Nerds Journey

In this episode of the Behind the Roast Podcast, host Joseph welcomes Alejo, the content creator behind 'The Coffee Nerds,' who shares his passion for specialty coffee. Alejo discusses his 102-day daily coffee challenge, his expertise with the V60 brewing method, and his love for African coffees, particularly those from Ethiopia. He also delves into his background as a barista at Starbucks, the formation of 'The Coffee Nerds,' and his approach to creating engaging coffee content. The conversation touches on brand collaborations, the local coffee shop scene, and the importance of supporting small businesses. The episode concludes with discussions on future content plans, collaboration ideas, and the mutual goal of expanding coffee knowledge and appreciation.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:21 Alejo's Daily Coffee Challenge
01:33 Mastering the V60 and Tasting Notes
05:40 Journey into Coffee Content Creation
09:51 Local Coffee Scenes and Community
14:49 Brand Deals and Collaborations
27:39 Future Plans and Closing Remarks

Follow: The Coffee Nerds

IG:https://www.instagram.com/thecoffeenerds?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Page:https://thecoffeenerds.co

Youtube:https://youtube.com/@thecoffeenerds?si=kGgvKaRI06B23GFS

Follow: The Daily Brew Reviewer

IG:https://www.instagram.com/thedailybrewreview/

IG:https://www.instagram.com/behindtheroastpodcast

TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thedailybrewreview?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Youtube:https://youtube.com/@thedailybrewreviewer?si=MJ2p8iOlem0CvJrP

Send us a text

Welcome to the second episode of Behind the Roasts.

In this introductory episode, host Joseph AKA The Daily Brew Review shares the purpose behind the podcast and why these conversations matter. Behind the Roasts was created to highlight the real stories behind local coffee shops — the people, the passion, and the journeys that often go unseen behind the counter.

This podcast goes beyond the cup to explore what it truly takes to build a coffee business, support local communities, and preserve the craft that makes independent coffee shops so meaningful.

Throughout this episode, you’ll learn:

• why Behind the Roasts was created
• what listeners can expect in future episodes
• how coffee connects communities
• and why supporting local businesses matters now more than ever

Whether you’re a coffee lover, barista, shop owner, or someone who simply appreciates a great story, this podcast is your invitation to slow down, listen, and connect.

This is just the beginning.

☕🎙️
Behind the Roasts — where every cup has a story, and every story deserves to be heard.

Support the show

Social:

https://www.youtube.com/@Thedailybrewreviewer

https://www.instagram.com/thedailybrewreview

https://www.tiktok.com/@thedailybrewreview

https://www.instagram.com/behindtheroastpodcast

Send us a text

In this episode of Behind the Roast, we sit down with Nicole, the owner of Boutique Coffee Made Simple in Clifton Park, NY, to discuss her inspiring journey from owning a cleaning company to building a thriving boutique coffee shop rooted in creativity and community.

What began with a small espresso machine and a simple idea quickly evolved into a boutique storefront — and eventually into the full coffee shop experience customers know today. Nicole shares the real challenges behind growth, the mindset required to pivot industries, and how her now-signature themed coffee flights helped her business stand out in a competitive market.

Throughout the conversation, we explore what it truly takes to transition from service-based work into entrepreneurship, how trusting your vision can reshape your future, and why community connection remains the foundation of Boutique Coffee Made Simple’s success.

This episode is for anyone who loves local coffee, supports small businesses, or is navigating their own entrepreneurial journey.

☕ Featuring: Nicole — Boutique Coffee Made Simple
📍 Location: Clifton Park, New York
🎙️ Podcast: Behind the Roast

Support local. Trust the process. And never underestimate where a simple idea can lead.