Meet Patricia Acheson | Business Owner & Coffee Roaster

We had the good fortune of connecting with Patricia Acheson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patricia, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
As a coffee roaster and business owner, one thing about our industry that outsiders are often unaware of is the wide range of options and variables that can affect one’s experience with coffee. Many people who claim they stopped drinking coffee because it hurt their stomach may not realize that it’s similar to someone saying, “I don’t like wine anymore because I had one blend at a restaurant that I didn’t like.”

The truth is, the world of coffee offers an incredible variety of roasts, origins, and brewing methods, each with its own unique characteristics. Just like wine, where different blends, grape varieties, and aging processes can significantly alter the taste and experience, coffee is equally diverse.

When it comes to coffee, certain roasts and origins may have varying acidity levels, caffeine content, and flavor profiles. Additionally, the way coffee is brewed can also play a crucial role in how one’s body reacts to it. Factors such as water temperature, brewing time, and extraction method can all contribute to the overall taste and potential digestive impact.

It’s important to note that I am not a doctor, and I am in no way suggesting that individuals should start drinking coffee if their healthcare provider advises otherwise. However, for those who have only stopped drinking coffee based on recent negative effects, it might be worth rethinking the kind of coffee they consume or the way they brew it. Exploring different roasts, origins, and brewing techniques can open up a world of possibilities and help individuals find a coffee that suits their taste preferences and potentially addresses any discomfort they experienced.

In conclusion, the coffee industry offers an abundance of choices, and by understanding the various factors that influence the coffee experience, individuals can better navigate their personal preferences and potential sensitivities.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At The Fox Den: No Waste Cafe and Roastery, we take pride in what sets us apart from others in the industry. One aspect that distinguishes us is our in-shop roasting. We roast our coffee beans right in the cafe, just about 10 feet away from our customers. This unique setup not only provides an incredible aroma but also offers a truly immersive experience. Customers can witness the roasting process firsthand and even engage with us by asking questions. It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to educate and share our passion for the amazing coffee industry, creating a deeper connection with our customers.

Another significant factor that sets us apart is our commitment to being a no waste establishment. We have eliminated all single-use items from our operations and instead offer reusable jars for customers. They can put a deposit on these jars, and when they return them, they receive a dollar back in cash. We also encourage customers to bring their own mugs, offering them a discount. However, for those dining in, we still provide mugs. Additionally, we calculate our carbon footprint and partner with organizations like One Tree Planted to plant trees and offset our environmental impact. These initiatives contribute to our mission of being a truly sustainable and responsible business.

What I am most proud of and excited about is the community we have built here at The Fox Den. We have developed a loyal customer base of regulars who share our values, support our movement, and genuinely love our coffee. The relationships we have formed with our customers go beyond transactions. My staff and I have gotten to know them personally, and it’s truly heartwarming to see the community we have created together. We wouldn’t be where we are today without their support, and we are grateful for their ongoing encouragement.

Getting to where we are today as a business hasn’t been an easy journey. Opening and starting a business is filled with challenges, and despite careful planning, unexpected events like the COVID-19 pandemic can disrupt even the most well-laid plans. One of the significant challenges we faced was transitioning our processes to become a no waste establishment. It required substantial effort and dedication. However, having a supportive community that shared our values made a tremendous difference. Their enthusiasm and willingness to embrace our initiatives helped us overcome obstacles and stay motivated.

Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of resilience and perseverance. It’s crucial not to let setbacks or bad days discourage you. Every entrepreneur faces challenges, but it’s essential to keep going and not give up. Surrounding yourself with a strong support system and staying focused on your vision will help you push through difficult times.

In essence, The Fox Den is not just a coffee shop and roastery. It’s a testament to our commitment to sustainability, education, and community. We offer an immersive coffee experience through in-shop roasting, and our no waste concept sets us apart. We are proud of the community we have built, and we are grateful for the support we receive. Our journey has been challenging, but we believe in our mission and the positive impact we can make. We encourage others to embrace sustainability, ask themselves the important questions, and pursue their dreams with determination and a supportive network.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
This is a very hard question, because there are so many amazing and elective spots in Fort Collins. I would tell them to start by going to Silver Grill downtown for breakfast and then take a stroll down town and wander into all the fun little shops in the area, especially Walnut Creek. I would tell them to support my neighbors and grab an amazingly hand crafted beer at Stodgy Brewing Company, take a walk through city park, and then for dinner, stop in at Little On Mountain for some of the best farm to table food in Fort Collins. After, I would say to have a pre-game drink at Social and then Ace Gillett’s Lounge and then end their night at The Atrium Bar for a fun night life experience and live music. Sounds like the perfect day to me!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shout out goes to one of my biggest supporters, my husband, Daniel. Throughout my journey as an entrepreneur, he has been there for me every step of the way, providing unwavering support and belief in my capabilities.

He has never once questioned my ability to achieve my goals. He has been a constant source of encouragement, lifting me up on my hardest days and celebrating my successes. His support extends beyond just words of encouragement; he actively supports my every move and helps me navigate the challenges that come with running a business.

What sets him apart as my biggest supporter is that he doesn’t shy away from asking the hard questions. While he uplifts and encourages me, he also challenges me to think critically and stay focused. He reminds me to maintain a positive mindset when needed, but also ensures that I stay humble and grounded. His ability to ask difficult questions and provide constructive feedback is invaluable to my growth as both a person and a business owner.

He is my harshest critic and my biggest fan at the same time and I couldn’t ask for a better supporter than him.

Website: www.nowastecoffeeshop.com

Instagram: nowastecafe_foxden

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083414823638