In this episode of the 'Art of Connecting' podcast, we interview Shannon Greer, the owner of Cadence Coffee Company in Chattanooga. Shannon shares his journey from starting a coffee shop to fostering community engagement and social change through partnerships with local nonprofits. He delves into his transition from a church planter to a coffee shop owner, expanding to multiple locations, and his initiative, the Oasis Center, aimed at creating a collaborative space for non-profits. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, giving back to the community, and the transformative power of offering more than just a cup of coffee, but an opportunity for connection and positive change. Shannon’s story exemplifies how business and community impact can go hand in hand.

00:00 Intro
01:22 From Church Planter to Coffee Entrepreneur
05:32 The Birth of a Coffee Passion
07:53 From Insurance Sales to Coffee Connection
12:26 Building Community Through Coffee
19:39 Introducing the Oasis Center
25:48 The Historical Significance of the Oasis Center
30:41 Challenges and Funding Strategies
32:53 Expanding the Coffee Business
34:07 Innovative Hiring Practices
38:14 Creating Community
44:24 Lessons in Helping
49:06 The Story of Cadence Coffee Company