We’ve had some fun married couples as guests this season, but we decided to change it up and chat with a couple of great FRIENDS who have grown a major coffee brand together as two of the three business parters at Valor Coffee.

In fact, to explore the bromance theme even more, Jessica steps aside in the interview box to let Zac and Ethan Price have that conversation with Ross Walters and Ethan Rivers about their journey from coffee cart to a premier national brand.

Paige invites our lead roaster Ethan to brew Valor’s guest coffee and talk roasting in Jacob’s Corner.

And finally, Zac + Jessica sit down and answer some of the prompts from the June box and explore the theme of FRIENDS | FOES together.

Check out THE ONE Coffee Ritual at www.theonecoffeeritual.com

Fundraiser for school at Finca Terrerito: https://evansvillecoffee.com/pages/fundlet/fincat8

The conversation covers unconventional sleep habits, dream stories, travel adventures, and the impact of travel on creativity, community engagement, and business growth. It delves into the significance of origin trips, the hospitality experienced during travel, and the inspiration gained from exploring new spaces. Additionally, it highlights the impact of travel on creativity and business growth, as well as the importance of community engagement in fostering business success. The conversation delves into the intricacies of coffee brewing methods and techniques, highlighting the use of French press and pour-over methods. It also explores the tasting experience of Alma Coffee and the unique characteristics of different coffee blends. Additionally, the discussion touches on reflections about aging together and daily habits, providing insights into the dynamics of a long-term relationship.

Takeaways

• Hospitality and inspiration from travel
• Origin trips and the impact on creativity
• Community engagement and business growth Family legacy and generational impact
• Transition from corporate careers to coffee industry Coffee brewing methods
• Coffee tasting and preferences

Chapters

• 00:00 Unconventional Sleep Habits and Dream Stories
• 06:02 Impact of Travel on Creativity and Business Growth
• 26:11 Building a Legacy
• 32:50 Commitment and Clarity
• 37:51 Passion for Coffee and Community
• 46:49 Work-Life Balance and Daily Rituals
• 53:27 Coffee Origins and Legacy
• 58:36 Coffee Grinders and Brewing
• 01:05:55 Coffee Brewing Methods and Techniques
• 01:11:15 Alma Coffee and Tasting Experience
• 01:17:17 Reflections on Aging Together and Daily Habits

In 2026, Zac finally convinces Jessica to agree to a VIDEO podcast (or does he?).

New host (and Honey Moon Vice President) Paige Venturi takes the reigns and guides a reflection time with the co-founders before transitioning to a recorded conversation with our guest roaster for April 2026: Antler Specialty Goods.

Annalisa and Hunter started Antler during the pandemic, and have carved out a successful business and growing family in the subsequent years. They share their story with Jessica and Zac along with highlights of their single origin coffee included in The One Coffee Ritual box this month.

Takeaways

• Transitioning to a new format
• Excitement for 2026
• Balancing marriage and business ownership
• The significance of morning rituals in business and personal life

Chapters

• 00:00 The Video Podcast Surprise
• 05:26 Reflecting on 2026
• 11:17 Preparing for a Trip
• 19:04 Guest Roaster: Antler Specialty Goods
• 23:32 Antler Mobile Setup and Brick-and-Mortar
• 28:35 Antler Commitment to Brick-and-Mortar
• 37:07 Antler Establishing Roots in Henderson
• 42:17 Antler Morning Rituals and Business Ownership
• 50:31 Antler Coffee Tasting and Business Operations
• 54:21 Jacob's Coffee Corner
• 01:03:00 Zac and Jessica talk about Faith and Doubt

Introduction: In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive into the captivating world of food and its intricate relationship with our lives and marriages. From fasting to feasting, we explore how our eating habits impact not just our health but also our emotions and connections with loved ones.

Main Content:

Section 1: The Fasting Experience

Fasting has become a part of our routine, especially on Fridays. We often skip breakfast, opting to work out fasted, which has its benefits. As one host mentioned, "If I eat, I'll never work out," highlighting the struggle many face in balancing nutrition and fitness. The experience of fasting can lead to a heightened sense of hunger, making the discussion about food all the more engaging. For instance, as we recorded this episode, the sun was setting, and hunger pains were palpable, underscoring the significance of timing in our eating habits.

Section 2: The Love-Hate Relationship with Food

Food plays a crucial role in our lives, especially in how we relate to one another. One host expressed a desire for a planned eating schedule, stating, "I definitely want to be able to enjoy the food and be mindful of its effects on me." This sentiment resonates with many couples who find that their dining habits can either bring them closer or create tension. The contrast in our eating styles—where one takes time to prepare their meal and savor it, while the other prefers a quick bite—reflects broader communication dynamics in relationships.

Section 3: Emotional Connections to Food

We also delved into the emotional aspects of eating. One host admitted to using food as a reward, saying, "I just worked so hard. I deserve to have ice cream." This sentiment highlights how food often serves as a comfort or a celebration in our lives. The conversation touched on the idea that many people have an emotional relationship with food, whether it's a positive reinforcement or a means of distraction from negative feelings. This perspective invites listeners to reflect on their own eating habits and how they relate to their emotions.

Jessica and Zac get away to a new hotel in St. Louis and get a surprising upgrade. They also received the final report from a consultation and facilitation by Derek Jones from the University of Evansville's Center for Innovation and Change. After some reflection from Wes and Zac, the couple behind the Parrella Petite bakery sit down with Jessica and Zac on the back patio to discuss their entrepreneurial journey and bringing bagels to the Honey Moon menu.

Zac and Jessica listen back to Zac's appearance on the How I Built This: Advice Line podcast and reflect on the experience. They also discuss the development of The One subscription box and the feedback they've received so far.

Listen to the full episode of How I Built This with Guy Raz and Jack Conte here: https://wondery.com/shows/how-i-built-this/episode/10386-advice-line-with-jack-conte-of-patreon/

Zac and Jessica reflect on the end of the second quarter, and the rhythms that they are looking forward to in the 3rd. Jessica claims to have the best hike ever, and Zac finally impresses Jessica with a taglline for the new Honey Moon Coffee Ritual.

Also, as a bonus, we have the full conversation with Kelly Johnson from The Daily Grind Podcast.

The Daily Grind Podcast interview on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54RLNGo4v6k
The Daily Grind Podcast website: https://www.kjfwi.org/the-daily-grind/

Back on the porch, Zac and Jessica reflect on the recent construction project expanding the Burkhardt location, as well as working a record-breaking shift at the West Side location on Mother's Day.