In this episode, host Jack sits down with Landon McDaid, owner of Hive Coffee in Suttons Bay, Michigan. They discuss Landon’s journey from studying environmental biology to finding his passion in hospitality and coffee. Landon explains how he took over the former Mundos Coffee location (opening Hive Coffee in 2023), and how he transformed the space with a unique “Japandi” design to create a light, welcoming environment during Michigan’s long winters.

Landon talks about the mission behind Hive Coffee – supporting honeybee conservation and mental health – and why community is at the heart of everything he does. He shares personal stories about his love for coffee: drinking black coffee with his grandma, and experimenting with a thrift-store espresso machine at home with his wife.

The conversation also covers the realities of opening a cafe. Landon training to use a Slayer espresso machine at a Dune Bird Winery, nerves of the grand opening day, and the challenge of launching during the slower winter season. Emphasizing having fun with customers, and building a friendly team.

Finally, Landon offers candid advice to anyone dreaming of their own coffee shop: save money or find smart funding, do your research, get the right people on board, and most importantly write a solid business plan with a clear mission and vision. This ensures you stay true to your goals and values as your business grows.

00:00 Introduction

00:28 Landon's Background

02:14 Cafe Takeover

3:37 Passion & Community

07:19 Transforming the Space

9:19 Family & Mundos Support

11:32 Japandi Cafe Design

14:28 Love of Coffee

19:28 Education & Career Pivot

23:28 – Coffee Rituals

25:49 – Leland Lodge & Dunebird Winery 26:36 – Seizing the Opportunity

28:11 – Opening Day

30:11 – Winter Opening Strategy:

32:23 – Authenticity

33:35 – The Name “Hive” & Mission 35:54 – Day-to-Day Operations

40:45 – Favorite Coffee Origins

45:13 – Home Coffee Roasting

48:46 – DIY Roasting Setup

52:11 – Advice for Aspiring Cafe Owners