River North Brewery

Denver is filled with many microbreweries, and more and more are created in the Colorado area than maybe anywhere else (it sure seems that way). And, they’re turning out to be really good. People are flocking to microbreweries every chance they get. Denver is a fairly diverse city, it has many Colleges and young professionals who love their craft beer. So, most have their favorite spots, but what’s really unique about Denver is that in one weekend anyone could spend a portion of the time enjoying a tasting from so many micro-breweries, all in one city. There’s many outside Denver as well, which are worth the trip as well! But, today I would like to introduce River North Brewery to you. Located in the newly (ish) area known as RINO (River North Art District) — which is North of Denver and includes a concentration of ‘creative businesses, including architects, art galleries, designers, furniture makers, illustrators, painters, media artists, photographers, sculptors and an array of studio spaces.’ And these people like their beer!

Matthew Hess

Meet Matt Hess. So, I know some people, and those people know some people, and that’s of course how I learned about River North Brewery. Now, I love the opportunity to go meet a new startup, and taking people out for some beers didn’t hurt either. The first time I met Matt, the brewery was barely open a few weeks, it was a Saturday night, the place was packed and the food truck was lined up out front. Matt and his wife could not be more friendly, and welcome you over for a pint, or a flight if you care to taste them all. Matt literally, with the help of many, built this brewery from the ground up and is really proud today to be able to share the great beer, according to everyone I’ve met who have drank their beers, with everyone they can. They are off to a great start. The bar is unique with all its handmade wooden bartop and barstools. You can look directly into and even tour the brewery in the back — it’s a huge space and lots of brewing is happening at River North Brewery these days. They have just started to bottle their first few beers and are selling in a few local Denver liquor stores, including: Lloyd & Maxwell Wine & Spirits Merchants.

I think when in Denver, stop by River North Brewery, especially first Friday or second Saturday of the month when the art walks are going on in the RINO area, and you are bound to have a great time.

“I would say that success is being able to do what you love everyday, but the truth is not every part of running a business is going to be something you love. I can say that everything I do has a great sense of importance to me and my business. I can’t say that about anything I have done previously.”~Matt Hess

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Matt] River North Brewery www.rivernorthbrewery.com

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Matt] Our taproom opened in February 2012 — but River North Brewery is a year in the making.

Taproom bare bones

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Matt] We are Denver’s newest microbrewery.

Painting the taproom

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Matt] 2401 Blake St #1 Denver, CO 80205 (Corner of 24th and Blake)

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Matt] Colorado based, and local.

Matt unloading a 15 barrel beer fermenter

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Matt] No. You have to come to the taproom to enjoy the beer or purchase it bottled from our local vendors.

Matt Milling Grain

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

[Matt] Colorado has a thriving craft beer culture. Denver is an awesome city. And who doesn’t love the mountains?

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Matt] Our mission is to brew beer that we love to drink.

First Test Batch

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Matt] What else would I call myself? (he smiled answering)

I built this brewery from scratch, with a lot of help from my wife, Jess, of course.

Jess and Matt

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

[Matt] Autonomy and creative freedom.

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Matt] I’m the end of the line. If my decisions don’t turn out well, it’s all on me. (I’m not worried, though.)

Taproom getting action after launch

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Matt] Hmmm… Brewing has a lot of devices. I’m gonna go with the brewhouse, a refractometer, and possibly a screwdriver. I’m not crazy about my smartphone or anything, although I have one. It’s just a tool in the arsenal.

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Matt] Yeast, without question. That might sound a bit weird. I can’t take credit for it, but there’s a saying that brewers just make wort (the fermentable, sugary runoff from malt), yeast makes beer. Also, hops. Delicious, delicous hops.

Bourbon barrrel aged beers coming soon

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Matt] Of course I’m going to encourage others to start their companies in Colorado!

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

[Matt] I would say that success is being able to do what you love everyday, but the truth is not every part of running a business is going to be something you love. I can say that everything I do has a great sense of importance to me and my business. I can’t say that about anything I have done previously.

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Matt] Every brewer I have ever met. My wife. My family. My friends. Everybody at the Missouri Innovation Center.

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Matt] We’re not trying to be special and unique. River North Brewery isn’t a slowflake. We’re not trying to make better beer than everyone else. We’re just trying to make great beer.

Hypothesis bottled and available for purchase

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

[Matt] I have to say that starting the brewery required complete (possibly unwarranted) confidence. You have to KNOW that you can do it, even if there might not be a good reason why you should be so confident.

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Matt] I wish I could go hiking in the mountains all summer and ski all winter. I’d like to keep chipping away at the list of 14′ers I’ve climbed, but I think it’s gonna be a few years. Someday I’d like to devote my life to philanthropy and possibly public office.

I want to sincerely thank Matt for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think he deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight.

Matt Hess is the Owner of River North Brewery. Stay in touch with what the brewery is up to: Facebook page: River North Brewery, Twitter page: @rivernorthbrew, and Company website: www.rivernorthbrewery.com.

Two Pals & A Pup

For those of you who are awesome “puppy parents”, you know that there’s no better place than your local pet bakery and “bowtique” store. Say hello to one of my favorite stores where I get to take my “four-legged furry kid” and spoil them rotten, Two Pals & A Pup. Located in the Cherry Creek Denver area, truly one of the friendliest places I’ve ever stepped foot in, and Fido is not going to mind it either. Dogs can literally eat their hearts out from this awesome fresh bakery and pet store.

Jen, the owner, makes it a comfortable place for people to pop into when they’re just walking through the neighborhood of stores. When you need some fresh dog treats, or are in need of a new collar and leash, and with so many other great products that makes your dog a happy camper, Two Pals & A Pup can supply “the goods”, because honestly, it’s a dog’s life!

Jen Newhouse

Meet Jen Newhouse. This is one cool “chick”. Jen always has a big smile on her face, and it’s likely because she said good-bye to corporate America, and hello to living out her passion. Jen gave up the steady job and steady paycheck to reinvent how she can connect with animals and dog-owners alike, and offer products and services that makes those fluffy animals happy and healthy, with peace of mind for a dog-owner who is conscious of their dogs health and nutrition. You won’t find unhealthy food products for animals at Two Pals & A Pup. Only the best quality, and it’s completely affordable at the same time. I can walk out of Two Pals & A Pup with a couple of bags of treats for around $10-$15 and with one happy “pup”. I’m trilled to call Jen a neighboring Denver-based business owner, living out her passion for animals and providing quality products for our beloved furry friends.

If you’re in Denver check them out. If you’re not, Two Pals & A Pup’s products are available online, just check out their website: www.twopalsandapup.com. Now let’s get to the interview!

“Our shop is like a main street coffee shop — people come in to visit and the pups come in for treats.”~Jen Newhouse

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Jen] Two Pals & A Pup www.twopalsandapup.com

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Jen] November 2009

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Jen] Two Pals & A Pup is a local dog “bowtique” and bakery located in the Cherry Creek shopping district in Denver, Colorado. Our shop capitalizes on the ability to provide a quality experience for both pets and pet owners…from the conversation to the cookies! We carry a wide array of products to meet the needs of our four legged friends: baked goods, dog food (dry, canned, organic and raw), grooming products, herbal supplements, collars/leashes, toys (plush and non plush), harnesses and bedding. Although small, only 800 square feet, we buy a lot of product and we move a lot of product! We continue to rotate our inventory to keep our regulars coming in and to peak the interest of passerby’s.

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Jen] 231 Clayton Street Denver, CO 80206

Jen Newhouse, Storefront

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Jen] Colorado based – local Denver store, and country wide – eCommerce website.

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Jen] Yes. www.twopalsandapup.com

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

[Jen] We decided to locate our store in Colorado, specifically Cherry Creek, because it not only fit our target demographic but because the culture encourages “four legged friendliness.”

Two Pals & A Pup Bakery Counter

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Jen] Our mission is to provide the finest organic, all natural baked goods and pet products to our four legged friends and their two legged people!

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Jen] Yes! In short; I took a huge risk leaving corporate America and the corporate income to pursue my passion. The initiative to try and truly impact animals and their two legged friends in a positive way every day. Our shop implements initiatives that not only create a growing profit center; but provide a place where quality products and discussions are available for everyone to take part in.

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

[Jen] To quote the Lion King lyrics, “No one saying do this. No one saying be there. No one saying stop that. No one saying see here. Free to run around all day. Free to do it all my way.”

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Jen] It’s on you…period.

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Jen] The computer…it’s crazy how dependent we’ve become on this piece of technology. It houses our POS system, social media, customer lists, vendors, email, etc.

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Jen] Our point of sale system. With over 2000 sku’s it is essential to our business operating efficiently. Sure we could do it by hand, but it is far from an effective use of time.

Two Pals & A Pup Denver Store

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Jen] ABSOLUTELY! Wayne Gretzky once said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Sometimes you just gotta just pull trigger and go for it — that’s the best piece of advice my father gave me when we were waffling on venturing out on our own. Colorado encourages people to do business with people, not big box shops. The weather is great; find a location, open the door and trust yourself enough to succeed.

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

[Jen] I can’t say it any better than this… “Rely on your own strength of body and soul. Take for your star self-reliance, faith, honesty and industry. Don’t take too much advice — keep at the helm and steer your own ship.” ~ Noah Porter

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Jen] My Father — he continues to be my inspiration for stepping outside of the box, valuing people because of what they bring to the table – not who they are or what they’re worth and simply living every day to it’s fullest.

Eleanor Roosevelt….sometimes you have to do things you don’t want to do in life, not because you want to, but because you can.

Every animal out there who wants to be loved and the humans who need the same.

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Jen] We don’t care if you come in and spend $1 or $100, we want to know you and your pet. Our shop is like a main street coffee shop — people come in to visit and the pups come in for treats. Sometimes they just come in to have someplace to go — we don’t care, we just want them to leave a little bit better off than when you first came in.

Two Pals & A Pup Store

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

[Jen] Listen to your customers…not just lip service; truly listen. Even the days when you really don’t have it in you to care; dig deep, find your humanity and LISTEN. The money is the easy part.

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Jen] Two Pals & A Pup endorses our mainstay foundation; The Wags & Menace Organization. Beyond our business donations, we personally strive to donate food and supplies to animals in need.

I also own M&M Speaking focusing on management and motivational key-note speaking engagements.

I want to sincerely thank Jen for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think she deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight.

Jen Newhouse is the Owner of Two Pals & A Pup. Stay in touch with what she’s up to: Facebook page: Two Pals & A Pup, and Company website: www.twopalsandapup.com.

Foundry Group

If you’re looking through my eyes right now, then entrepreneurship and startups are all the rage. Some are calling it a phase. Some are calling it the next evolution of the human spirit choosing to turn their passion into a living. Others say it’s what makes America a great country, and when there’s no jobs to be found, we invent them. Those are actually all my own thoughts, not “someone” else’s.

Brad Feld

Meet Brad Feld. He is the Managing Director at the Foundry Group. If there was a “Godfather of Entrepreneurship” right here in Colorado, then Brad would likely be the guy to be named just that. Brad has been investing in software and technology companies for quite some time now. The Foundry Group has a great list of companies in which they have invested in to. This is how they describe themselves, “Foundry Group is a venture capital firm focused on making investments in early-stage information technology, Internet and software startups. Our passion is working alongside entrepreneurs to give birth to new technologies and to build those technologies into industry-leading companies. We’re centrally located in Boulder, CO, but we invest in companies across North America.”

“Only do things you are passionate about.”~Brad Feld

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Brad] Foundry Group www.foundrygroup.com

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Brad] 2007

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Brad] We are a venture capital firm that invests in software and Internet companies around the US.

Foundry Group Team, Brad Feld (left)

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Brad] Boulder, Colorado

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Brad] Colorado based, and country wide

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Brad] No. But you can learn about us on our website.

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

[Brad] We are based in Boulder. We think it’s one of the most dynamic startup communities in the world and love being based here.

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Brad] We help amazing entrepreneurs create software and Internet companies.

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Brad] Yes – I started my first company (Feld Technologies) when I was 19 and have been involved in creating and running software companies since. While I’m now an investor (as a VC) I’m still deeply engaged in the entrepreneurial process.

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

[Brad] I don’t ever think of myself as “the boss.” I am one of four partners at Foundry Group – we all work together – and as part of a broader team of people both at Foundry and across the various companies we invest in.

Brad Go-Karting

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Brad] Nothing.

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Brad] Macbook Air, iPhone, and the Internet.

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Brad] Gmail. Twitter.

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Brad] Absolutely, although I regularly encourage people to focus on where they want to live and start a company there. If they want to live in Colorado, they should!

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

[Brad] Learning something new every way.

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Brad] My dad, my uncle Charlie, my wife Amy, my mom Cecelia, Len Fassler (who acquired my first company), and my partners at Foundry Group who I learn from every day.

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Brad] We get to spend our time working with the smartest and most interesting people we can meet.

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

[Brad] Only do things you are passionate about.

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Brad] Again, only do things you are passionate about!

Brad Finish Line, 50 miler

[EmSpot] Brad recently completed the American River 50 Mile Endurance Run. From the looks of his picture taken after the race, success, and he shares some of the post reality of pushing your body to that extent in his own blog – read about his run here. I personally think that’s a fantastic achievment of sorts. Setting your mind to something that physically challenging, and doing it, and then sharing that none of it was easy, physically or emotionally. But, it reminds me again and again, that we are capable of extrodinary achivements, big and small, if we just believe in ourselves and are willing to do the work!

Brad also just launched his new self pusblished book Beyond The Blog: Brad Feld’s Burning Entrepreneur – How to Launch, Fund, and Set Your Start-Up On Fire! 

I want to sincerely thank Brad for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think he deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight.

Brad Feld is a Managing Director of the Foundry Group. Stay in touch with what he’s up to: Twitter: @bfeld, Facebook page: Brad Feld, and Company website: www.foundrygroup.com.

UsingMiles

Ever wonder how many loyalty program points, credits, or airline miles you’ve lost and may never even have known about. Well, rest assure, UsingMiles.com solves the problem of never losing any of your loyalty programs’ rewards again. UsingMiles was developed due to a personal experience Krista experienced, when she lost over 26,000 miles in a single loyalty program, and wondered how she could prevent that from not only never happening to her again, but to anyone else. Anyone can sign up for a Free or a Premier UsingMiles account and start benefiting from someone else worrying about when your programs may be ending or your miles may be expiring – UsingMiles will notify you whenever any program is nearing expiration and prevent you from loosing those hard earned and promised rewards.

This makes sense you know. Retailers lure you in to make purchases based on many lotalty program perks. ‘Buy this new flat-screen TV and earn 2000 airlines miles from United’, for example. But then a year later, I guarantee you don’t remember you even had that 1000 miles sitting and going unused. UsingMiles makes sure that not only do you have a place to manage all your loyalty programs, but you get to use them and on your terms.

I signed up for an account, in less then 1 minute I received my account information and was immediately logged in and was able to start adding programs. I discovered that I had a $25 rewards certificate just waiting for me to use, and it has an April expiration date, so I probably would never have known about it. Thanks UsingMiles. UsingMiles is not trying to get you to spend more money on things you don’t need. Instead you can use it to get the rewards that you’re promised when you do make purchases. From retailers, airlines miles, to hotel coupons and credits.

Krista Paul

Meet Krista Paul. The Founder and Vice President of Marketing of UsingMiles. Krista graduated Summa Cum Laude with highest honors from the University of Colorado, Boulder Leed’s School of Business. She’s a Colorado native who got accepted into the TechStars incubator in the Summer of 2008. UsingMiles is a very innovative web service solution for anyone looking to benefit from all those airline miles and hotel points that just seem to “disappear”.
Now, let’s get to it!

On Success. “Building something that truly helps people simplify their lives and makes them happy.”~Krista Paul

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Krista] UsingMiles, Inc www.usingmiles.com

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Krista] Established January 2011 (Incorporated in 2012)

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Krista] To simplify people’s hectic lives and improve redemption, UsingMiles.com aggregates all of a family’s membership and loyalty programs – programs like LivingSocial, Starbucks, United MileagePlus and Marriott Rewards – into a single dashboard, and protects them against expiration. Points, miles and credits are organized to use like cash, as second currencies available to spend. UsingMiles provides tools, such as an advanced travel search engine, to help members earn more points and finds efficient ways for families to spend their second currencies.

UsingMiles Screenshot

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Krista] Denver, Colorado

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Krista] Colorado based, and Internet Only

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Krista] Yes, www.usingmiles.com

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

[Krista] Because I am a Colorado native and was accepted into the Boulder Techstars incubator, which requires all founders to move to Boulder.

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Krista] UsingMiles is the guardian of your loyalty programs. Our promise is to protect them from expiration and to help you find ways to earn more and redeem more often, while eliminating your loyalty fatigue.

UsingMiles Add Programs Screen

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Krista] Yes. Being an entrepreneur is not all fun and games. In order to get my idea off the ground, I had to bootstrap for three years, move back in with my parents, wait tables, work at a tanning salon, and drop everything social because I didn’t have the money to fund my business and still have a life. But I loved the challenge and wouldn’t trade it for anything. The excitement of starting something new and building a product out of nothing is what keeps entrepreneurs going.

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

[Krista] Getting to plan your own days and prioritize your goals for the company instead of convincing your boss that your way is the right way. Of course, there are still plenty of other people to convince, even if you’re the boss!

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Krista] Building a killer team and keeping your employees as passionate and as motivated as you are.

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Krista] My iPhone.

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Krista] UsingMiles.com!

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Krista] Absolutely, particularly if they can get involved in an incubator like Techstars, Founders Institute, or Plug And Play. The mentors you meet through these networks are invaluable.

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

[Krista] Building something that truly helps people simplify their lives and makes them happy.

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Krista] My parents, David Cohen, Jon Nordmark, Libby Cook, Nancy Pierce – they were all mentors to me.

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Krista] We just started managing daily deal sites, so now in addition to helping you manage your miles and points, we’ll also help you prevent Groupon and LivingSocial vouchers from expiring!

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

[Krista] Choose your co-founder wisely.

Never compromise your morals.

Things will never go as expected. Tomorrow is always a new day.

Starting a company may be the hardest thing you will ever do – but also the best thing.

Take meetings even if there seems to be no point in them. Introductions come from the most unlikely places.

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Krista] I’m involved in lots of community service work, including Ronald McDonald events, playground builds in low-income communities, and other fundraising events. I was also nominated as one of ColoradoBiz’s Top Five Young Professionals for 2011.

I want to sincerely thank Krista for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think she deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight.

Krista Paul is the Founder & VP of Marketing of UsingMiles. Stay in touch with what she’s up to: Twitter: @kristapaul and @UsingMiles, Facebook page: UsingMiles, and Company website: www.usingmiles.com.

Global CafeNation

“My heart belongs to Africa”. That is a saying of mine, and the name of a non-profit that I know I will start one day. Many who know me on a personal level know that I was born and raised in South Africa, and when you’re born in the ‘mother country’ you have the heartbeat of Africa, always and forever. My upbringing in South Africa was luxurious and lavish, and very different from a child of color in the same country. I learned a great deal from less fortunate people while growing up and they taught me some of the most fundamental lessons I carry with me everyday. Lessons such as, ‘money can’t buy happiness’, and ‘there are great rewards when you work really hard’. I will be forever grateful that I was born and raised in the Southern point of Africa.

But Africa, can be a very difficult place to live when you have very little means to make a good life. There are parts of Africa which are under constant battle for survival. Children are suffering and education may not even be an option. Unless you have traveled to more rural areas of Africa or South Africa, you will understand what I mean when I point out that there are sadly so many people who don’t have the opportunities that you and I may have. That leads me to introduce Jake Sager, who is the Founder and President of Global CafeNation, an organization striving to create sustainable communities in parts of Africa, and provide those people with educational opportunities.

Jake Sager

Meet Jake Sager. A University of Denver (DU) undergrad and rising entrepreneur. From the dorm rooms of DU came the sole purpose of changing the opportunities for children specifically in Tanzania, Africa. Global CafeNation with the partnership of Peace House Africa (PHA) has a main focus to provide children with education from very young through graduation to learn, grow and become sustainable. They do this based on giving 60% of their coffee sale profits towards these children’s future. I’m really thrilled to give the spotlight to Jake, his team, and the efforts provided by Global CafeNation.

May I add that Jake shared a bag of coffee, the Vivace to be specific (a free trade organic coffee) and the consensus was; “Oh my god, that is so smooth and creamy it’s not even funny”. Coffee drinkers, from novice to die hard can find a blend of java from Global CafeNation that truly has a premium quality, taste, and provides children with a chance to a better education – a future! Go buy a bag today and tell your friends. You can follow them on Facebook and share them with your friends there as well.
Now, let’s get to it!

“Just go for it all! Paint the picture of the iconic Nike swoosh and do not let people hold you back from achieving your goals and dreams. Just do it!”~Jake Sager

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Jake] Global CafeNation www.globalcafenation.com

Children in school

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Jake] April 2009

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Jake] Bringing together premium coffee from around the world and educationally deprived children, Global CaféNation was quickly born. In today’s age, many large scale companies donate funds to boost public image and create a “feel-good” sensation among employees. On the other hand, Global CaféNation’s sole purpose mirrors its mission. Our business model allows for the majority of profits donated to Peace House Africa. Sixty percent of all profits go directly to our partner institution. Half of the donation enables students to attend secondary school, while the other half helps fund the building of Peace House Institute – the entrepreneurship school to be built in Tanzania for post-secondary education. All of this is accomplished by providing the top 5% premium coffees from around the world while attracting socially conscious consumers.

Global CafeNation, Children

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Jake] We are Denver based but completely virtual.

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Jake] Colorado based, and country wide

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Jake] Yes, see all our coffee products here: http://globalcafenation.com/coffee/all-products/

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

Jake Sager

[Jake] As a growing community committed to working towards a more sustainable future, the City of Denver served as a perfect fit full of our target audience. In addition, it also helped that our executive team of students were all attending University of Denver.

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Jake] To inspire self-sustainability and to provide educational opportunities around the world.

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Jake] Yes. Long hours? Check. No initial salary? Check. Possess the passion to make a difference? Check!

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

Jake Sager, on top of coffee bean bags

[Jake] What you put in is what you get out. Unlike corporate positions that potentially limit the return through monetary compensation, hours demanded, etc., self-employment allows for much more. Being my own boss also allows for flexibility to exist within an organization. As the business continues to grow, I am able to restructure strategic plans and continue to tailor the overall focus.

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Jake] Not knowing exactly what it is I am doing. Much of the skills needed to become a successful entrepreneur are either obtained through years of experience or mentors and books. My student background obviously limited my real-world experience, however, I still managed to capitalize on the available classes to teach myself as I continue to grow the business.

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Jake] My iPhone and Macbook. The current set-up of a small business relies on mobile payment apps, constant emails relating to networking and constant monitoring of sales facilitation. All of the marketing materials, accounting software, etc. are saved on my hard drive. Electronics are my life!

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Jake] Mac Mail from an electronics standpoint. From a functional standpoint, how can ANYONE undertake tasks without a daily cup of Global CafeNation coffee!

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Jake] Of course! Economically, Denver and Minneapolis were recently voted 1-2 in thriving and upcoming business centers. As a Minnesotan migrant to Colorado, I had show some love…

The process to become registered with the Colorado Secretary of State is simple and straight-forward. When those steps are easy, I believe much of the rest regarding regulations is understandable as well.

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

[Jake] Not failing. No, but in all honesty success is defined on a multitude of levels. For me, Global CafeNation is my first serious entrepreneurial venture. Despite the slow growth, I believe it is a success just to still be standing after three years. In general, my definition of success is this: developing an idea that people truly believe in.

Global CafeNation, trip to Africa

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Jake] Craig Harrison (Informal mentor and DU alumni, entrepreneur of multiple ventures)

David Robinson (Son of baseball legend, Jackie Robinson, and passionate coffee business owner)

Impoverished Children (Kids around the globe do not lack the skill but rather the opportunity. It is my goal to provide an opportunity)

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Jake] We uphold the greatest sustainable practices. Outside of sourcing fair trade certified coffees, we also work directly with coffee origins via our local-Denver roaster to create the highest potential margins. Our roaster offsets Excel energy with wind credit, utilizes a complex recycling program to reduce waste, and takes advantage of compressed corn cupboard doors and compressed wheat shelves to become more eco-friendly.

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

Global CafeNation, Jake Left, Coffee Roasters

[Jake] Just go for it all! Paint the picture of the iconic Nike swoosh and do not let people hold you back from achieving goals and dreams. “Just do it!”

At the same time, make sure to form the right management team that includes an accountant. That ALWAYS helps…

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Jake] In addition to starting and growing Global CafeNation, I have managed to attend school at the University of Denver full-time and graduate earlier than four years. This upcoming fall, I will continue higher education through the completion of the one-year MBA program offered at DU with a focus in Finance, Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

Not sure how I have time, but I also manage to shred the mountains on my Burton Deuce snowboard with friends and family whenever possible!

I want to sincerely thank Jake for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think he deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight.

Jake Sager is the Founder & President of Global CafeNation. Stay in touch with what he’s up to: Twitter:@GCN2010, Facebook page: Global CafeNation, and Company website: www.globalcafenation.com.

Refresh Agency

I’ve known Sandja for many years. We initially met in Boulder, Colorado years ago. Probably about 8 or 9 years ago to be more specific. Things were different then. We were well, 8 or 9 years younger, and living in Boulder – which really gives you a sense of a free spirit lifestyle. Let’s just say we all played more then we worked. Today, we all seem to be a great deal more aligned with our passions, and our work.

Sandja Brügmann

Meet Sandja Brügmann. Sandja is a kind-hearted, yoga-loving, appreciator of all things creative and eco-inspired, and now resides in Copenhagen. Yes, Denmark now hosts the Managing Partner of Refresh Agency, and she has a team of folks out in Denver, Colorado holding the fort at their US-based office. Refresh Agency is a PR, marketing, and social media digital agency with a refreshing focus on Eco Luxury, Wellness, Natural Products, Fashion and Consumer Goods Categories on local, national and international levels with specific focus on Scandinavia and the United States. Some of their clients include the likes of: Crocs, Good Belly, Clementine Art, Embodi, and many more. Now, let’s get to it!

“Create a network of like-minded people, who think, behave and are inspired about the same things you are – it keeps you inspired and on track with your vision.”~Sandja Brügmann

The Interview

[EmSpot] What is your current project / business’ name?

[Sandja] Refresh Agency www.refreshagency.com

[EmSpot] When was your Business established?

[Sandja] 2004

[EmSpot] Briefly describe your Business

[Sandja] Refresh Agency is a highly specialized communications firm whose results-driven partnerships create invigorating outcomes for the companies we serve.

We’re a cool drink of water, and a gulp of fresh air. We’re the snap of a bright idea, and the bracing wind behind the story you’ve got to tell.

Our vision is grounded in the concepts of sustainability and inspiration; celebrating the beauty, luxury, and natural elegance that emerges when the two become one.

Refresh Agency enlivens your business with passion, creativity, and measurable outcomes. We blend proven public relations and marketing strategy with cutting edge social media tools to achieve uncommonly refreshing results.

[EmSpot] Where are you located?

[Sandja] Denver, CO and Copenhagen, Denmark.

Copenhagen, Denmark

[EmSpot] Are you a local, country-wide, or a Global business?

[Sandja] Colorado based, and Global.

[EmSpot] Can people buy your product or service online?

[Sandja] Yes, one can simply visit our website and contact us directly to start a campaign.

[EmSpot] Why Colorado?

[Sandja] I have lived in Boulder / Denver for most of 15 years. It’s an incredible place to live, and it is a supportive and inspiring place to be in terms of the eco socio planetary business industry.

[EmSpot] What’s your mission?

[Sandja] My mission is to inspire on all levels – people – profit and planet.

I live for the incredible opportunity it is to co-create with the clients I serve.

I am passioante about inspiring positive and uplifted inspiration to the people, we reach both in the B2B and B2C areas – locally, nationally and globally.

My life mission is to make a difference for people, who are less fortunate than myself.

I get teary eyed from a truly vulnerable and caring place, when I have the opportunity to tell the stories about doing good for others, such as our current client ITO EN, who in conjunction with Whole Foods Market’s non-profit Whole Planet Foundation are working together to alleviate poverty in the third world.

[EmSpot] Would you / do you call yourself an Entrepreneur?

[Sandja] I call myself an “Ecopreneur”.

Copenhagen Office space

[EmSpot] What’s the best thing about being the boss?

[Sandja] I launched my own business at the age of 25, when my daughter was just a little over 1 years old, I had just left my husband, and I was in a country, which wasn’t my birthplace, in a language, which wasn’t my mother tongue. When I think back now 10 years later, I wonder where that fearlessness came from.

I was driven by two key elements – I wanted to have the flexibility to spend time with my daughter, when she needed me, and not just early morning and late evening. The American way of working in a more corporate environment is not conducive for family life. Secondly, I am a passionate person, and I work incredibly hard. I wanted to feel and see that my efforts made a difference both for me, and for the people and companies I worked with.

“And I love that I can work from anywhere in the world as long as I have my laptop and Internet access. That’s a huge privilege.”~Sandja Brügmann

[EmSpot] What’s the toughest thing about being the boss?

[Sandja] The toughest thing about being your own boss is that you have to know a lot of things, which might not be your strengths, and which you really do not care to spend your time on. You have to deal with IT, finances, insurance policies, investments, software and such. It sure would be nice to be able to call the IT department when the printer is malfunctioning, or the computer requires some digital clean up.

My first outsourcing many years ago was a book keeper – Ms. Lynda is still with me after all these years. I could not be without her.

Time management is a key skill to develop as a small business owner. You have to constantly be in two processes – one is to service the clients and doing the work & projects you have under contract, the other is to network and constantly be in communication outside your inner sphere to ensure projects continue to come in.

[EmSpot] What device can you not live without on a daily basis?

[Sandja] My MacBook Pro.

[EmSpot] What product, solution, application can you not live or operate without?

[Sandja] Email, the Internet, and digital media tools.

[EmSpot] Would you encourage others to start their own companies in Colorado?

[Sandja] Yes. I sure would. Colorado is a fabulous place to start a business, and especially in my industry – LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) the community is supportive and are willing to share their knowledge with newcomers.

[EmSpot] What is your definition of success?

Sandja, Boulder, CO.

[Sandja] Success for me is a balance between working with great inspiring people, creating fabulous results, making a difference in the world, earning good money, having time to pursue my art, yoga and spiritual work, have plenty of time to travel, time to laugh and explore with friends and family, and most importantly – have plenty of time to be there for my daughter.

People (me, daughter, friends, family, people I work with, mentors and teachers).

Planet (live consciously, raise my own and other’s awareness about planetary wellness).

Profit (Profit for me, profit for my clients, and profit for others).

“In one sentence: For me success is measured on the inside.”~Sandja Brügmann

[EmSpot] Who are some people who have inspired you to do the work that you do?

[Sandja] Bill Capsalis is an incredible source of encouragement.

Ellen Feeney was my boss at Gaiam, and she is now VP of sustanibility at White Wave, she’s an incredible woman.

Shimon Kabili, who works in a totally different industry, has been a pillar to me in my younger years.

George Boedecker, founder of Crocs, who was my first client, and longstanding friend.

Hilary Martin, who has been my partner on many inspiring projects.

Rob Schuham, my ex boyfriend, who taught me more than he knows about business and digital media.

Robyn McCord, she probably doesn’t know it, but her passion and commitment to what she does is contagious.

Jen Lester, who owns Philosophy Communication and is a current partner to Refresh Agency.

“It takes a village …..”~Sandja Brügmann

[EmSpot] What is something unique and special about your business that you would love people to know about?

[Sandja] We are experts in the area of eco urban living, which includes companies and products such as Clementine Art (Boulder based), Karmameju (Copenhagen based), Ito En (Tokyo based/ US HQ in New York), Ticket to Heaven (Denmark based), Vickerey (Boulder based), Krimson Klover (Vail based), amongst others.

I don’t much like the word experts, but we have proven results in the USA and Scandinavia in particular, and have run communications campaigns in the larger European countries with great success.

We always have one non-profit client, where we volunteer our time and expertise to help a socio-giving cause. Right now we work with KiDS for KiDS with UNICEF and Ticket to Heaven in Denmark www.kidsforkids.dk (website in Danish).

[EmSpot] If you could give any other business some advice, what would it be?

[Sandja] Create a network of like-minded people, who think, behave and are inspired about the same things you are – it keeps you inspired and on track with your vision. And you can pull them in as needed on specific projects. Outsourcing is a must, in order not to overwork yourself to a point of no energy.

[EmSpot] Beyond your company

[Sandja] In my free time I delve into mixed media art projects, laugh and explore the world with my 12 year old daughter, I ski & practice yoga (I am a certified yoga instructor), I love connecting with people of all kinds, I travel and feel inspired by art, music, architecture and people’s passions, and I scoot around the digital and physical worlds finding all sorts of inspiring and do-good brands – I am an eco trend spotter.

Sandja Brügmann & Daughter in Lotus

I want to sincerely thank Sandja for taking the time to provide us with an interview, and we certainly think she deserves a moment in the Entrepreneur Spotlight. I hope you take some of her feedback and advice into consideration.

Sandja Brügmann is the Managing Partner of Refresh Agency. Stay in touch with what she’s up to: Twitter: @sandja, Facebook page: Refresh Agency, and Company website: www.refreshagency.com