INTERVIEW CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Who else in the specialty coffee community do you look to for inspiration, guidance or advice?

The coffee community is rich with thought leaders and inspirational people so one does not have to go far. We served on the planning committee for the 2000 SCAA (Specialty Coffee Association of America) conference in San Francisco and got to work with two inspirational powerhouses, Paul Katzoff and Paul Rice. Also, for inspiration, we look to Erna Knutsen, Kimberly Easson, Katie Carguilo, Alex Littlejohn, Aida Battle, Chido Govera, Maria Ruiz, Willem Boot…to name just a few.

What’s your favorite aspect of working in the coffee world?

#1: At every turn there is a possibility to have impact.
#2: One is always a student in this industry.
#3: Visiting cafes when traveling.

Are there unique challenges to a woman-owned business in the coffee industry?

Gender has not been an issue for us as wholesale specialty roasters. But clearly, there is an under-representation of women in certain areas of the industry.

Is it easier or harder to accomplish your goals with so many other specialty roasters?

Harder, but motivating in terms of defining ourselves. Thus the return to our retail roots in coffee.

What do you think makes the Bay Area coffee scene unique?

We listen to the Grateful Dead…Let’s just say that the coffee scene, wherever it is, reflects the uniqueness of its community since it draws local baristas and local customers.

What’s a typical coffee consumption day for you, drink by drink, from when you wake up to when you go to sleep?

Two brewed cups in the morning (black of course!), a late morning shot of espresso, and, cupping samples with the team.

If you brew coffee at home, what’s your preferred brewing method, and why?

Hario 1st choice, a Chemex coffee maker 2nd. The entire ritual of hand-pouring is satisfying and comforting.

If you could only have one more shot of espresso, who would make it for you?

Our inspirational coffee educator and barista trainer, Devorah Freudiger.

Samantha Joyce is a writer for Seattle Coffee Gear and enjoys drinking the coffee that Brooke McDonnell makes with care and thoughtfulness.