847: Jessie Dean on Farm to Teacup Tea.

And Hurricane Helene and the her business recovery.

In This Podcast: We chat with Jessie Dean from Asheville Tea Company, about her farm to teacup business approach and the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. This episode was originally recorded in July 2024 prior to the hurricane. The storm led to the complete destruction of their building, resulting in the loss of inventory, equipment, and office space. Despite the shock, the company has been actively rebuilding with immense support from their community, local farmers, and collaborating tea businesses.

Jesse discusses the transition from her career in outdoor education to starting the tea company in 2016, combining her passion for tea with sustainable business practices. She emphasizes connecting consumers with the origins of their tea, supporting local farmers, and promoting regenerative agricultural methods. Jesse also shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of networking, and the rewarding journey of entrepreneurship.

Additionally, they have launched a holiday tea trio and initiated a fundraiser to aid their recovery efforts. More details and donation options are available on their website.

Our Guest: Jesse Dean is the founder and CEO of Asheville Tea Company. Where they believe in creating delicious cups of tea by using a farm to teacup approach to ingredient sourcing by having direct involvement with the plants and farmers who grow their herbs.

They support the local food economy and regenerative growing methods along the way, telling the story of each ingredient. So the consumer can experience what's in their cup from seed to sip.

Jessie's Book Recommendation: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown

Guest Website: AshevilleTeaCompany.com

Visit UrbanFarm.org/AshevilleTeaCompany for the show notes and links on this episode!

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