Hospitality and Coffee: Church as a "Third Space"

In 1971, near the historic Pike Place in Seattle, Washington, Jerry Baldwin, Gordon Bowker, and Zev Siegl opened the very first Starbucks coffee shop. Fast forward 53 years and 35,000 shops later, and Starbucks has undeniably become the most successful coffee shop chain in the world. However, it's important to note that Starbucks' success doesn't solely rely on the quality of its coffee. In fact, among coffee enthusiasts, it's widely known that Starbucks may not offer the best coffee experience.

What sets Starbucks apart is its pioneering concept of the "third space," a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg in the 1980s. A third space is a welcoming environment that fosters social interaction and provides a sense of hospitality for building relationships. It goes beyond just serving coffee.

In this episode, we have the privilege of hearing from the CEO and founder of one of the few black-owned and operated coffee roasters, distributors, and shops. This conversation will not only reshape the typical coffee interview but also delve into how local churches can embody and create a better third space. Join us as we explore this insightful discussion.

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