S1, E72: Publik Coffee/ Kitchen - Missy Greis
The convergence of community and good coffee often begins at unexpected places—Missy Greis's journey with Publik Coffee is a perfect illustration of this. From her humble beginnings in Salt Lake City in 1997 to the flourishing enterprise that is Publik Coffee today, Missy has redefined not only how coffee is experienced but also how businesses can interact with and uplift their communities. The narrative of her journey is both inspiring and informative for anyone interested in the dynamics of local business, community engagement, and the transformative power of coffee.
Missy moved to Salt Lake City with her family and quickly sought to dig her roots into the community. She joined the Junior League, a departure from her initial misconceptions about the organization being just a gathering of "fancy ladies." Her immersion in the Junior League opened numerous doors, helping to forge valuable connections that would later become essential in her entrepreneurial journey. The camaraderie and collaboration she found within the League informed her understanding of community-building—a critical ethos she carried into her business ventures.
At the heart of Publik Coffee, and later Publik Kitchen, is not just a strong product, but the intention to create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that empowers the community. When Publik Coffee was awarded Best Coffee Roaster in Utah by Food & Wine in 2022, it was not merely a matter of accolades but a recognition of Missy's commitment to excellence and community contributions. She emphasizes that the secret ingredient to their success is genuine care—for the coffee, the employees, and the customers.
Missy's story illustrates a vital lesson in today’s economy: businesses are more than transactional entities; they serve as community hubs. During the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic, she exemplified resilience by focusing on creative solutions like High Beets and adapting her approach to business logistics. She navigated through challenges with the agility that comes from a deep understanding of the needs within her community, providing vital services while maintaining a strong social presence.
Publik Coffee’s journey goes beyond just serving coffee. It’s a gathering space, a community center, a place where locals come together. This philosophy is evident in her involvement with projects like the Ballpark Action Team, where she’s focused on revitalizing the neighborhood surrounding the baseball stadium to make it a thriving collaborative space and center that offers community events, markets, and family-friendly activities.
Furthermore, her role on the board of Spy Hop showcases her commitment to youth empowerment and the importance of instilling creativity in the younger generation. By providing a platform for the youth, she believes in the potential for positive change and innovation in the community.
Moving forward, Missy emphasizes the power of collaboration—reminding us that we are all “better together.” The future is bright for Salt Lake City, thanks to community leaders like Missy Greis, who constantly challenge the status quo and area limitations. Whether it’s a simple cup of coffee or a new community initiative, Missy's vision reflects an underlying truth: When businesses care and engage with their communities, everyone benefits.
Whether you’re sipping a latte from Publik Coffee or engaging with the projects Missy is spearheading, it becomes clear that the spirit of Salt Lake lies within the connections we make and the communities we build together. Missy's journey serves as a testament to the impact of giving a sh*t about our neighbors and fostering environments where everyone feels connected.
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