In this episode of Sipping Success, we explore the vibrant world of specialty coffee with Aaron Blaser, founder and CEO of Curioso, a Minneapolis-based coffee company renowned for its commitment to sustainability, localism, and the arts. Curioso stands out not just for its coffee but also for creating a community space where art and coffee intertwine, fostering a unique cultural experience. Aaron shares his journey from his initial explorations in Panama to establishing Curioso's distinct presence in the coffee industry.

• 1:00 Min - Aaron's Background and Curioso's Genesis: From a science student to a film and photography enthusiast, Aaron’s eclectic background led him to Panama, where his passion for coffee began amidst sustainable living projects.
• 10:00 Min - Sustainability and Community Engagement: Curioso emphasizes sustainability through local sourcing, reducing waste, and supporting local artists and businesses, creating a community hub around coffee.
• 18:00 Min - Adaptability and Growth: Aaron discusses how Curioso adapted its business model from a mobile coffee stand to establishing brick-and-mortar locations, navigating challenges like COVID-19 and evolving consumer needs.

Curioso's story is a compelling example of how a business can integrate passion for a product with community values and environmental consciousness. Aaron Blaser’s journey from a curious experimenter in Panama to a community-focused entrepreneur in Minneapolis illustrates the impact of adaptability, sustainability, and community in building a successful business.

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://www.curiosomn.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronparkblaser/

In this episode of Sipping Success, we dive into the fascinating world of whiskey with Juliet Schmalz, founder and CEO of Fortune's Fool. Juliet shares her unique journey from being an anesthesiologist to pursuing her passion in the whiskey industry. Through a detailed exploration of the process and philosophy behind Fortune's Fool, we uncover how this brand combines the art of whiskey making with the rich thematic elements of Shakespeare's works, particularly Romeo and Juliet.

• 1:00 Min: Juliet's Transition from Medicine to Whiskey: The episode opens with Juliet's personal story of transitioning from a medical career to founding a whiskey brand, inspired by her passion and a strategic move to capitalize on the proximity to Louisville, Kentucky.
• 3:00 Min: Branding and Inspiration: Juliet elaborates on how Fortune's Fool is inspired by fables and defined by contrasts, using Shakespearean themes to enrich the brand's identity.
• 8:00 Min: Product Development and Innovation: Discussion on the evolution from initial plans of building a distillery to adapting a business model that includes contracting distillation and focusing on premium barrel quality.
• 17:00 Min: Future Ventures and Collaborations: Juliet discusses upcoming products and innovative cross-industry collaborations, such as venturing into tequila using barrels originally used for aging whiskey.

This episode of Sipping Success provides a comprehensive look into the entrepreneurial spirit driving the craft beverage industry, showcasing Juliet Schmalz’s journey as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs. Her story highlights the importance of passion, adaptability, and clear branding in crafting a successful business.

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://fortunesfool.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliet-schmalz-14b9a55a/

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Sipping Success, host Casey Haakinson chats with Levent Tuysuzoglu, the Founder and CEO of Hazelicious, about his mission to elevate hazelnuts as a staple in non-dairy alternatives, nut butters, and snacks. Levent discusses his unique transition from a career in finance to creating a premium plant-based product brand inspired by his family's hazelnut farm in Turkey. He candidly shares the challenges Hazelicious faced during COVID-19 and how they overcame supply chain issues and a manufacturing partnership change.

Key Topics Discussed:

• 1:00 Minute - Passion for Hazelnuts: Levent transitioned from a career in finance to founding Hazelicious, inspired by his family’s hazelnut farm in Turkey.
• 4:00 Minute - Supply Chain Challenges: He explains how Hazelicious navigated ingredient supply chain disruptions and a co-manufacturer change during the pandemic.
• 7:00 Minute - Unique Positioning: The company focuses on high-quality hazelnut milk and butters that fill a gap in the market, offering dairy-like textures.
• 10:00 Minute - Growth Strategy: Hazelicious prioritizes gross margins while scaling up revenue, avoiding the pitfalls of selling at a loss for market share.
• 16:00 Minute - Advice to Founders: Levent encourages young entrepreneurs to pursue their passions early and embrace calculated risks.

Conclusion:

From leveraging his family's legacy in hazelnut farming to navigating the unpredictable challenges posed by the pandemic, Levent's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation has set Hazelicious apart in the competitive plant-based product market. His emphasis on maintaining strong gross margins while growing revenue offers valuable insights to entrepreneurs seeking sustainable success. As we close this episode of Sipping Success, we invite you to explore how Hazelicious is redefining the hazelnut experience and learn more about scaling your beverage brand to new heights.

Contact Information:

https://www.mushroommedia.io/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mushroom-media-marketing/

https://hazelicious.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/levent-tuysuzoglu-68723615/