The Grit behind the Grind
The Grit behind the Grind
Grit+Grind
Welcome to The Grit behind the Grind Podcast Get ready for a podcast that isn't just about business, it's conversations about serving others, transformation + life-changing moments that have shaped us into who we are today. We want you to imagine yourself in conversations with us as we navigate the highs + lows of entrepreneurship, building a brand, our journey of personal growth & fostering really cool relationships. This podcast is for dreamers, doers & anyone seeking inspiration & actionable insights. Subscribe now and let's embark on a journey together.
The Power of Financial Planning in Business with Ryne Taylor | S2 Episode 31
In this episode of the Grit Behind The Grind podcast, host Eric Rowell engage in a deep conversation with financial planner Ryne Taylor. They explore the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, the importance of financial planning, and how life insurance can serve as a valuable financial tool for business owners. Ryne shares his journey into financial planning, the significance of having a financial advisor, and the necessity of building a solid financial foundation for future success. The discussion emphasizes the need for business owners to prioritize their financial health and the benefits of having a comprehensive financial plan in place.TakeawaysPersistence is key in entrepreneurship.Financial planning provides peace of mind for business owners.The first dollar saved is the hardest to save.Cash flow is crucial for business success.Life insurance can be a valuable financial tool.Building a financial system is essential for growth.Having a team of advisors is important for entrepreneurs.Profit First mentality helps prioritize personal income.Understanding the benefits of permanent life insurance is vital.Education and resources are crucial for financial literacy.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind The Grind Podcast01:16 Meeting Ryne: The Value of Persistence03:05 Understanding Financial Planning for Business Owners05:26 Ryen's Journey to Financial Planning10:02 When to Bring on a Financial Planner12:08 The Importance of Profit First13:49 Exploring Life Insurance as a Financial Tool17:06 The Benefits of Permanent Life Insurance20:41 Ryen's Services and ClienteleResources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  
May 7, 2025
25 min
Roasted & Refined: Steve Green on Building Coffee, Brands, and Leaders | S2 Episode 30
In this episode of the Grit Behind the Grind podcast, host Eric Rowell engage in a deep conversation with Steve Green, co-founder of Mill City Roasters. They explore the raw and unfiltered journey of entrepreneurship, particularly in the coffee industry. The discussion covers the importance of personal growth, brand building, and creating an experiential culture in coffee shops. Steve shares insights on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of customer service, and the value of investing in oneself and others in the industry. The episode emphasizes the need for education and mentorship in building successful coffee businesses.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship often involves learning from failures.Brand equity is crucial for business success.Investing in customer experience is key.Education and mentorship can accelerate growth.Creating a welcoming environment enhances customer loyalty.Personal development is essential for leadership.Networking with industry experts is invaluable.Understanding the difference between consuming and producing coffee is important.Reinvesting in your team fosters growth and success.Experience in the industry is vital before starting a business.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind01:11 Steve Green's Entrepreneurial Journey04:30 The Importance of Brand Building09:03 Navigating the Coffee Industry15:08 Creating an Experiential Coffee Culture19:00 Investing in Personal and Professional Growth24:29 Gaining Experience in the IndustryResources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  Guest Contact:https://millcityroasters.com/
May 5, 2025
26 min
Efficiency Meets Artistry in Every Roast with Lauren Lathrop | S2 Episode 29
In this episode of the Grit Behind the Grind podcast, host Eric Rowell engages in a deep conversation with Lauren from Mill City Roasters about the intricacies of coffee roasting, the importance of education, and the value of strategic partnerships in entrepreneurship. They explore the challenges and rewards of building a coffee business, emphasizing the need for quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction. The discussion highlights the significance of leveraging expertise and resources to streamline operations and enhance the overall customer experience in the coffee industry.TakeawaysThe journey of entrepreneurship involves struggles and sacrifices.Education plays a crucial role in mastering coffee roasting.Strategic partnerships can lead to greater success in business.Quality and reliability are essential for customer satisfaction.Understanding the complexities of coffee roasting is vital for success.Investing in professional expertise can save time and money.Streamlining operations enhances the customer experience.Consistency in product quality builds brand loyalty.Training and quality control are key in the coffee industry.Creating resources for others can foster community and growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind Podcast01:02 The Journey of Coffee Entrepreneurship02:25 Understanding the Role of Education in Coffee Roasting04:54 The Importance of Strategic Partnerships07:54 Navigating the Complexities of Coffee Roasting10:30 The Value of Professional Expertise in Business12:48 Investing in Quality and Reliability14:37 Streamlining Operations for Customer Satisfaction17:41 Building a Sustainable Coffee Business20:06 Training and Quality Control in Coffee22:42 The Impact of Consistency on Brand LoyaltyResources for you:- Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffee- If you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & Missioncheck this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5Dk3DQHmDr8eB3-gcHqI4pR0iEuOl/view?usp=drive_link- Want to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.com- For all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gritandgrind_coffee/Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/gritandgrindcoffee334Learn more on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gritandgrindcoffeeWatch more content YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegritbehindthegrindGuest Contact:https://www.instagram.com/cupfirst/https://millcityroasters.com/
Apr 29, 2025
25 min
Why We Built Our Dream In A Small Town: Our Move To Andalusia | S2 Episode 28
In this episode of the Grit Behind The Grind podcast, hosts Eric and Destiny Rowell discuss their journey in entrepreneurship, focusing on their decision to establish their headquarters in Andalusia, Alabama. They share insights into their personal experiences, the importance of community, and the values that guided their choices. The conversation highlights the significance of partnerships, the vision for their coffee brand, and the impact of investing in a small town. The episode emphasizes the importance of aligning personal and business values with community goals, and the hosts express their excitement about building a flagship headquarters that serves both their business and the local community.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship involves struggles and sacrifices.Choosing a location is influenced by personal experiences.Community and family connections are vital.Building partnerships can enhance business growth.Aligning values with the community fosters collaboration.Creating solutions is essential for business success.Investing in local communities benefits everyone.A small town can offer a supportive environment.The importance of a positive mindset in business.Long-term vision is crucial for sustainable growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind The Grind01:10 Choosing Andalusia, Alabama03:30 The Vision for Grit and Grind Coffee06:30 Building Community Partnerships10:35 Aligning Values with Andalusia12:55 Creating a Flagship Headquarters15:55 Reasons for Relocating to Andalusia18:58 Investing in the CommunityResources for you:- Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffee- If you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & Missioncheck this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5Dk3DQHmDr8eB3-gcHqI4pR0iEuOl/view?usp=drive_link- Want to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.com- For all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gritandgrind_coffee/Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/gritandgrindcoffee334Learn more on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gritandgrindcoffeeWatch more content YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegritbehindthegrind
Apr 18, 2025
20 min
Growth, Grit, and Getting Real with Eric & Destiny | S2 Episode 27
In this episode of The Grit Behind the Grind podcast, hosts Eric and Destiny Rowell discuss their entrepreneurial journey, focusing on their coffee business and the goals for Q2. They emphasize the importance of marketing strategies, franchise development, understanding business numbers, and the need for continuous improvement in business practices. The conversation highlights the challenges and learning experiences that come with entrepreneurship, as well as the significance of aligning values with potential partners.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship involves struggles and sacrifices.Q2 represents a fresh start and new opportunities.Continuous learning is essential for business growth.Marketing strategies must evolve with the business.Merchandise can create a strong brand identity.Building a sales organization is crucial for franchise growth.Understanding financial numbers is key to success.Regular audits of business practices are necessary.Adaptation is vital in a changing market.Partnerships should align with core values.Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind01:11 Q2 Goals and Business Focus02:50 Marketing Strategies for Growth05:05 Franchise Development and Sales08:11 Understanding Business Numbers10:19 Continuous Improvement and AdaptationResources for you:check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  
Apr 16, 2025
12 min
Franchise Powerhouse: Erik Van Horn’s Grit-Driven Journey | S2 Episode 26
In this episode of the Grit Behind the Grind podcast, hosts Eric Rowell engage in a deep conversation with Erik Van Horn, a seasoned expert in franchising. They explore Van Horn's journey from law school dropout to successful franchisee and consultant, discussing the importance of controlled growth, the dynamics of the franchisee-franchisor relationship, and the value of listening and learning in business. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, mentorship, and continuous improvement in entrepreneurship. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the significance of masterminds in personal and professional growth, discussing various pricing models and the value they provide. They emphasize the importance of community and giving back, particularly in the context of franchising. The discussion also highlights the necessity of financial literacy for franchise success, urging entrepreneurs to understand their numbers and prepare adequately before venturing into franchising.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship involves identifying gaps in the market.Controlled growth is crucial for franchise success.Franchisees often blame franchisors for their struggles.Listening to customers can lead to business innovation.A teachable founder attracts better franchisees.Partnerships can enhance business success.Continuous learning is essential for growth.Franchising is a separate business model that requires different skills.Building a culture of collaboration benefits everyone.Mentorship and masterminds can accelerate success. Masterminds can be a cost-effective way to gain support.The value of a mastermind often exceeds its cost.Community building is essential for personal and professional growth.Giving back can lead to greater fulfillment in business.Understanding financials is crucial for franchising success.Many entrepreneurs lack the necessary financial literacy.Preparation is key before starting a franchise.Networking with the right people can prevent costly mistakes.Franchisors should ensure they are ready before selling franchises.Continuous learning and adapting are vital for business growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind01:01 Eric Van Horn's Journey in Franchising04:37 Building Front Street Equity Partners08:53 The Importance of Controlled Growth in Franchising12:54 Navigating the Franchisee-Franchisor Relationship17:14 The Power of Listening and Learning in Business22:53 Masterminds: The Power of Collective Growth25:16 Investing in Masterminds: Value vs. Cost30:18 The Purpose of Giving Back: Building Community32:12 Franchising Insights: The Importance of Preparation39:06 Financial Literacy: The Key to Franchise SuccessResources for you:- Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffee- If you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & Missioncheck this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5Dk3DQHmDr8eB3-gcHqI4pR0iEuOl/view?usp=drive_link- Want to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.com- For all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram: https://instagram.com/gritandgrind_coffee/Find us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/gritandgrindcoffee334Learn more on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gritandgrindcoffeeWatch more content YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegritbehindthegrindGuest Infohttps://www.instagram.com/erikvanhorn/https://linktr.ee/erikvanhorn
Apr 10, 2025
45 min
Why Lending Beats Owning: A Smarter Path To Financial Independence with Jon Chan | S2 Episode 25
In this episode of the Grit Behind the Grind podcast, host Eric Rowell interview Jon Chan, a real estate investor who transitioned from traditional rental properties to a lending-focused business model. Jon shares his journey, the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of community and underwriting in real estate. He emphasizes the benefits of self-directed IRAs and the shift towards lending as a more efficient way to achieve financial independence. The conversation highlights the value of networking and the support found within entrepreneurial communities.TakeawaysThe pandemic prompted many to reassess their career paths.Financial independence is crucial for personal security.Owning rental properties may not be the best path to wealth.Lending can provide more consistent returns than property ownership.Self-directed IRAs offer flexibility in investment choices.Understanding underwriting is essential for safe lending.Joining a community can accelerate learning and growth.Having a supportive partner can boost confidence in entrepreneurship.Creating opportunities for others can be a rewarding aspect of business.Focusing on a specific market can enhance business success.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind Podcast01:08 Jon Chan's Journey into Real Estate03:06 The Shift from Rental Properties to Lending06:21 Understanding Self-Directed IRAs and Lending09:42 The Importance of Underwriting in Lending12:52 The Benefits of Community in Real Estate20:00 Transitioning from W-2 to Entrepreneurship24:04 New Ventures in Lending and Market FocusResources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  Guest Info:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonchanrei/Linktree: linktr.ee/jonchanrei
Apr 7, 2025
28 min
Transparency, Teamwork & Tough Calls: The Key to Business Success | S2 Episode 24
In this episode of the Grit Behind the Grind podcast, Eric and Destiny Rowell discuss the raw and unfiltered journey of entrepreneurship, focusing on the struggles, mistakes, and lessons learned in building their coffee business. They highlight five common mistakes in business partnerships, the importance of having tough conversations, hiring the right team members, the necessity of structure while chasing growth, and the significance of aligning long-term visions with partners. The conversation emphasizes transparency and the value of learning from experiences to foster growth and success in business.TakeawaysTransparency in business is crucial for growth.Avoiding tough conversations can hinder progress.Hiring the right team members is essential for success.Chasing growth without structure leads to chaos.Mismatched long-term visions can derail partnerships.Establishing clear roles and responsibilities is vital.Learning from mistakes is part of the entrepreneurial journey.Tough conversations can lead to unexpected positive outcomes.Utilizing resources like mentors can save time and money.Aligning goals with partners ensures smoother operations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Grit Behind the Grind01:04 The Importance of Transparency in Business02:41 Common Mistakes in Business Partnerships08:04 The Necessity of Tough Conversations11:10 Hiring the Right Team Members16:03 Chasing Growth with Structure19:17 Aligning Long-Term VisionsResources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  
Mar 28, 2025
23 min
Coffee, Community & Grit : How She Brews Coffee Took Off | S2 Episode 23
In this episode of Grit Behind The Grind, host Destiny Rowell engage in a deep conversation with Cierra Schmitt, the owner of She Brews Coffee. They explore Cierra's journey into entrepreneurship, the challenges of starting a coffee business, and the importance of community and connection. The discussion highlights the realities of building a brand, managing employees, and the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship, including the need to let go of certain identities to grow. Sierra shares valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the significance of starting small and focusing on one's unique journey.TakeawaysEntrepreneurs thrive in chaos and uncertainty.Starting small allows for growth and resilience.Community support is crucial for business success.Building a brand involves sharing a relatable story.Hiring the right people is essential for maintaining quality.Letting go of control can be a significant challenge.Customer experience is key to brand loyalty.Pay attention to the details that enhance customer experience.Growth often requires stepping out of comfort zones.Every entrepreneur's journey is unique and should be embraced.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind The Grind01:02 Cierra's Journey into Coffee Entrepreneurship04:55 The Reality of Starting a Business08:50 Building a Brand and Community12:57 Hiring and Managing Employees16:35 Connecting with the Community19:33 The Challenge of Letting Go20:51 Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursResources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  Guest Infohttps://www.instagram.com/cierra.schmitt/https://www.shebrewscoffeellco.com/
Mar 24, 2025
25 min
Small Start, Big Dreams | The Story of Prickly Pear Coffee co. with Annika Baylis | S2 Episode 22
In this episode of The Grit Behind the Grind, host Destiney Rowell sit down with Annika Baylis, the founder of Prickly Pear Coffee Co. Annika shares her inspiring journey from starting a mobile coffee cart at 18 to opening two successful brick-and-mortar locations. The conversation delves into the realities of entrepreneurship, including the struggles, fears, and identity crises that come with building a business. Annika emphasizes the importance of community, perseverance, and the need to start small while also discussing the challenges faced by new entrepreneurs. The episode concludes with Annika's future plans for her coffee business and the significance of maintaining a strong brand identity.TakeawaysStarting small doesn't mean thinking small.Community is at the heart of the coffee business.Entrepreneurship involves overcoming fears and challenges.Identity can shift from owner to leader in business.Delegation is crucial for growth and consistency.Work-life balance is more of a blend than a split.Financial knowledge is essential for new entrepreneurs.Starting small allows for confidence and brand integrity.The journey of entrepreneurship is not always glamorous.Future growth requires honing in on craft and community.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Grit Behind the Grind01:14 Annika's Journey: From Mobile Cart to Brick and Mortar03:35 The Reality of Entrepreneurship: Struggles and Perseverance06:23 Overcoming Fears in Business09:43 Identity and Leadership in Entrepreneurship12:39 The Importance of Delegation and Trust15:41 Building Consistency Across Locations18:02 The Hard Work Behind Entrepreneurship21:01 Work-Life Balance: The Chameleon Approach22:44 Common Challenges for New Entrepreneurs25:01 The Importance of Starting Small28:12 Future Plans for Prickly Pear Coffee Co.Resources for you:Check out our Stan Store: https://stan.store/gritandgrindcoffeeIf you would like a worksheet that helps you “Define Your Personal Vision & MissionWant to know more about Grit + Grind Coffee and franchise opportunities check out this: https://gritandgrindfranchise.comFor all other things Grit + Grind Coffee: https://www.gritandgrind.coffee/check this out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-aj5...Your Next Steps:Send us a DM on Instagram:   / gritandgrind_coffee  Find us on Facebook:   / gritandgrindcoffee334  Learn more on Tiktok:   / gritandgrindcoffee  Watch more content YouTube:    / @thegritbehindthegrind  Guest Contacts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annikavbaylis/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pricklypearcoffeeco/Website: https://www.pricklypearcoffee.com/
Mar 17, 2025
32 min
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