Mark Hearon didn't always drink coffee, but when he got started, he was all in. Now, he's roasting fair trade organic coffee at an 1872 general store that also carries gourmet sandwiches and local essentials –– beer, bread, milk, fishing bait, even a fill-up for your car from a vintage gas pump, making it a unique one-stop-shop for both locals and travelers.

Joined by his daughter Ashley Hearon-Smith, the store’s part-time publicist and social media manager, Mark shares his journey from discovering coffee roasting in California to perfecting his craft in the Catskills. The episode covers the store’s rich history, the roasting process, and the community’s enthusiastic support, including local products such as meats, cheeses, and fresh baked goods.

https://www.charlottevillegeneralstore.com

00:00 Introduction

00:38 Meet Mark Hearon: The Man Behind the Coffee

01:54 History of the Charlotteville General Store

03:08 Mark's Journey into Coffee Roasting

06:13 Ethically Sourced Coffee Beans

07:18 Ashley Hearon-Smith: Publicist and Media Guru

09:38 Roasting Process and Local Products

14:57 Tasting the Coffee and a Sampling of Sandwiches

16:21 Local Products and Community Support

17:47 Conclusion and How to Visit

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Thanks to this week's sponsors: Briars & Brambles Books, Hanford Mills Museum, Ulster Savings Bank, and The Mountain Eagle.

Kaatscast is made possible through a grant from the Nicholas J. Juried Family Foundation, and through the support of listeners like you!

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