From Barista to Business Owner: Brewing Up Courage in the Coffee Industry

Ever felt like you're standing on the edge of a dream, heart racing, wondering if you should take the leap? That's exactly where I found myself after a decade in the coffee industry, contemplating the bold move to launch my own venture.

Let's be honest – imposter syndrome is the uninvited guest at every entrepreneur's party. It whispers doubts about whether you'll measure up to your peers, whether you're truly capable, or if you'll ever stand out in the saturated specialty coffee market. But here's the thing: everyone feels it, and that's exactly what makes us human.

As Danny Meyer brilliantly put it in "Setting the Table," creating something new in this industry is like composing music – we all have the same notes, but the magic lies in arranging them in a way that's never been heard before. That's where CAMP comes in, my vision for something different.

My coffee journey started in the familiar green apron of Starbucks, passing through various specialty coffee shops and roasters across Long Island, NY. Every spilled shot of espresso, every challenging customer interaction, and every behind-the-scenes glimpse of business operations became a lesson in my pocket. Success wears different faces for different people. Some chase numbers, others build communities – I'm trying to craft my own definition.

After years of second-guessing, I finally found my voice. My vision? A coffee business built on inclusivity, patience, kindness, and empathy. It's not just about delivering awesome coffee; it's about creating experiences that resonate with people's hearts as much as their palates.

I'm still in the early chapters of this story. The path ahead is steep, but I'm ready to explore it with you. Join me as we dive deep into fine coffees and memorable moments. This is an invitation to anyone who's ever dreamed of turning their passion into purpose.