In this engaging installment of "Mocktails with Marina," Marina sits down with Brandon and Steve Rivero, the dynamic father-son duo behind Tea Time Drinks. This episode takes a deep dive into the world of kratom-infused beverages, exploring the inception and ethos of their family-run enterprise.

Brandon and Steve share the heartwarming story of how Tea Time Drinks was born from a personal quest for wellness and a shared family passion for non-alc options. They discuss the unique challenges and joys of working together as family, offering a candid look at how they navigate business decisions while preserving their close-knit relationship.

The conversation shifts to the intricacies of CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) formulation, where the Riveros reveal their commitment to quality and innovation. They explain why they've chosen the path of bootstrapping over seeking external funding, highlighting the freedom and control it gives them over their brand's direction and integrity.

After all, when you create something so personal, why put the fate of that hard work in someone else's hands? This discussion on keeping a guiding light in your business is ESSENTIAL.

Throughout the episode, Brandon and Steve emphasize the importance of authenticity and maintaining family values in business. They provide insights into how they manage to keep their personal and professional lives intertwined yet balanced, offering valuable lessons for anyone looking to start or sustain a family business.

"Slow and steady wins the race," Steve Rivero reminds us throughout the episode, and it's a lesson really worth taking to heart.

Join Marina for this refreshing episode of "Mocktails with Marina," where the essence of entrepreneurship, family legacy, and innovative health beverages blend seamlessly. It's an inspiring tale of how personal values can steer a business venture to success while staying true to one's roots.

For more about Tea Time Drinks and to explore their kratom-infused offerings, visit www.teatimedrinks.com and continue the conversation at www.marinamars.com/themodernmocktail for additional insights and community interaction.

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Bail, the founder of Third Place Bar NYC. Sam's background in event planning and her passion for creating inclusive spaces have made her a trailblazer in the non-alcoholic event scene. Join us as we delve into her journey, the inspiration behind Third Place Bar, and her insights on the growing demand for non-alcoholic options in the vibrant New York City nightlife.

Sam's journey in the event planning industry began with a passion for creating memorable experiences for people. After years of working in the field, she noticed a gap in the market for non-alcoholic events that catered to a wide range of individuals. This led her to create Third Place Bar, a cozy space in New York City that offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and a welcoming atmosphere. Sam shares the challenges she faced in opening a non-alcoholic bar and the inspiration behind the unique drink creations at Third Place Bar.

Throughout this episode, Sam discusses the future of non-alcoholic events in New York City. She shares her insights on the growing demand for non-alcoholic options and the opportunities for businesses in this space. Marina and Sam wrap up the episode by discussing the importance of inclusivity and the role of non-alcoholic events in creating a more diverse and welcoming nightlife scene in New York City. This episode of "Mocktails with Marina" provides listeners with an insightful look into the world of non-alcoholic events and the visionary behind Third Place Bar.

Sam's Website: https://www.thirdplacebar.nyc/
Sam's Substack: https://thirdplacebarnyc.substack.com/

Have any questions or comments? Send us an email! hello@marinamars.com

I once heard of a company that spent $100,000+ over the course of 2 years switching between 4 different POS systems. Some of that cost was the technology itself, some of it was in the trainings and retraining's, and some of it was due to the significant amount of staff turnover that occurred as a direct result (per their exit interviews).

The owner *knew best* and everyone else was simply "inexperienced" or "unable to understand the problem at large."

And that business owner really, reeeeeeally believed that.

But the data doesn't lie, it doesn't care about feelings, and it needs to be respected. If the data says the risk outweighs the reward, it may be time to go back to the drawing board before taking any additional action.

If you're always acting out of fear, confusion, anxiety, or a mindset of "lacking", you will almost never be satisfied with your results.

Why?

Because those results were created under STRESS, which will simply breed more stress. When you're stressed, your brain isn't thinking nearly as clearly. Think of yourself as swollen.

If you twist your ankle and it puffs up, you need to elevate & let it rest. Your brain (and your business) deserves the same amount of TLC.

It may not always be fault that you get puffed up or pushed around, but it is your responsibility how you choose to come back from it.

Tune in now and save over $100,000 by avoiding simple yet profound mistakes in your non-alc business.

Send me an email if any of this episode resonates with you and you'd like to learn more about avoiding potential pitfalls of the non-alc industry: hello@marinamars.com

In this episode of Mocktails with Marina, we take a guided tour through Marina's personal Museum of Failure. As we progress through the tour, Marina shares her insights and lessons from each and every one.

Whether you aren't using your degree, feel like you wasted time, are mourning the loss of old opportunities, or you're learning more about boundaries - this episode is for ALL the fellow failures out there who are looking to turn that pain into a blessing.

As the episode progresses, you learn that all of your weaknesses have the potential to become your greatest strengths. It's all a matter of timing and doing the best with what you've got.

Learn more about the Discovery Phase Launchpad:
https://www.marinamars.com/challenge-page/discoveryphaselaunchpad

Are you in the discovery phase of your business? Even if you aren't listening to this episode as it is released - still send an email and tell us where you're at (we may be able to help): hello@marinamars.com

In this episode of "Mocktails with Marina," we delve into the crucial differences between new/aspiring business owners and their established counterparts. Over the past seven months, I've spoken with numerous entrepreneurs and learned valuable lessons that I want to share with you.

We explore why collaboration and coaching are game-changers and how established business owners leverage these tools for success. You'll discover the costly mistakes aspiring entrepreneurs make by trying to solve everything themselves and the mindset blocks that hold them back.

We'll discuss why some established business owners, who have been in business for less time than some new ones, manage to thrive. The hard truth is that many romanticize the idea of leaving their 9-5s but fail to show up and do the necessary work. It's not about intelligence; it's about mindset.

If you're in the non-alc or kava spaces and want to turn your dream into reality or break through a glass ceiling in your current business, this episode is for you. I share insights on the importance of showing up, investing in solutions, and overcoming mindset blocks.

Plus, I’m offering FREE resources tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a lounge/bar owner, bottle shop operator, CPG owner, ecommerce store owner, or an aspiring entrepreneur, tune in to find out how you can take the next step towards your entrepreneurial success.

Email: hello@marinamars.com

You're a total BADASS for being on this path at all, and I'm rooting for you. Let's dive in and unlock your potential!

(Mentioned in the episode! Notion: https://affiliate.notion.so/pzcjygs1jozu )

In this week's episode of Mocktails with Marina, we discuss the meaning and story behind the "Functional Mixology Method" and how it came to be.

This is a behind the scenes glimpse behind every decision we've made in our business over the past six months, and why we're moving forward with two more new and exciting projects.

Check out Marina's article featured in The Dry Atlas:
https://www.dryatlas.com/articles/what-makes-a-great-non-alc-menu/

Check out the Functional Mixology Method:
www.marinamars.com/functionalmixology

If you have any questions, comments, curiosities, or otherwise - send an email to hello@marinamars.com

In this episode, we dive into the captivating journey of The Chill Room Tempe, where co-owner and operator Vincent unveils the family story of transforming a humble smoke shop into a vibrant kava and kratom bar in Florida, and later expanding to a flourishing bar in Arizona. Discover the intriguing family dynamics, decisions, and unwavering trust that fueled their entrepreneurial adventure.

We explore the heartbeat of The Chill Room Tempe—their dynamic open mic events—where connections are made, talents are nurtured, and a sense of community thrives. Vincent shares the secrets behind creating an atmosphere that brings people together and keeps them coming back.

https://thechillroom.com/tempe/

https://www.thechillroomtempe.com/

https://www.instagram.com/thechillroomtempeaz

Get insights into how customer demographics have evolved, uncover the favorite drinks of different age groups, and hear firsthand about the challenges and triumphs of running a non-alcoholic business. Vincent addresses the controversies surrounding kratom, regulatory hurdles, and the resilience required to succeed in this unique industry.

Stay tuned as we discuss exciting upcoming events at The Chill Room Tempe, the progress of their consulting work, and the critical role of a welcoming bar atmosphere in attracting a diverse clientele.

Join us for an inspiring and informative episode that delves into the art of building a successful kava bar, fostering community, and navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the non-alcoholic beverage world.

Learn more about Marina's services here: www.marinamars.com/themodernmocktail