180 : A Conversation W/ Rugid Grind Founders, Brian Washington and Averett Barksdale

Coffee is more than just a drink. It can also be a vehicle for change. Ending teen homelessness through coffee is the vision of today's guests, Brian Washington and Averett Barksdale, the founders of , Rugid Grind. Established in 2019, Rugid Grind is a for-profit coffee provider that, as of now, acts as the sole supporter and funder of The Oneighty Project, a nonprofit dedicated to ending teenage homelessness around the world. Through rigorous studying of the process and the building of their headquarters in Houston, Texas, they quickly built their branding into one that serves a greater purpose while also serving a quality cup of coffee. Rugid Grind is dedicated to giving our customers a quality beverage they can count on, but the goal they have committed ourselves to is much bigger than the beverage they serve. As pastors and frequent leaders of mission trips and outreach projects, Washington and Barksdale have seen the epidemic of teenage homelessness firsthand. Over a million American teenagers will go to sleep tonight without a home, and countless others are teetering on the verge of homelessness. The direct funding we provide to Oneighty helps them execute their vision of ending teenage homelessness and giving the at-risk teens of the next generation a greater chance at success. By purchasing, leasing, and developing houses and finding caretakers who are fit for roles of mentorship and parental guidance, Oneighty seeks to create safe, nourishing environments for homeless adolescents not only in Houston, but all around the world. In todays episode you will learn: What it took to found Rugid Grind and the vision behind it Their coffee learning curve and their adventures in trying to source coffee form Haiti What Brian and Averett experienced when introduced to the specialty community. How they plan to use coffee to end teen homelessness The value of action and having a vision that is bigger than yourself How a community can come together to support a worthy goal What shops can do to take action in their own towns Buy Rugid Grind coffee and support their vision! www.rugidgrind.com Instagram: @rugidgrindcoffee Related episodes: 106 : Changing Lives Through Coffee w/ Pamela Chng of Bettr Barista 139 : Founder Friday w/ Kusanya Cafe Co-Founder, Phil Sipka Thank you to our sponsors! The right equipment for your situation! www.prima-coffee.com The best plant based beverages on the planet! www.pacificfoods.com/food-service