Business 101: A Panel Discussion on Starting Out, Growth, and Achieving Success

October 17, 2026
Conversation Corner
Business Operations

Starting any coffee business comes with a steep learning curve.

In this panel discussion, local café owners and brand founders share what they’ve learned from the ground up – from early missteps to turning points in growth. Hear how they built their businesses, what they wish they’d known starting out, and the lessons they learned along the way. We’ll wrap with a Q&A so you can ask these local leaders what really drives their success – and how you can apply it to your own journey.

This is a free session included in your general admission.

Panel Moderator
Jon Taylor
Jon Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer - Martin, McCrary & Caldwell
Speakers
Jeremy Lyman
Jeremy Lyman, Co-Founder/Owner - Birch Coffee

Free with Gold Pass?

YES

Fee

FREE

Levels

Suitable for All Experience Levels

Who is this session for?

Suitable for All Experience Levels in Cafe Owner and Cafe Manager/HR segments. Ideal for those looking to learn from local industry leaders about building, growing, and sustaining a successful specialty coffee business.