We sit down with John Cozz, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Cozz Coffee. John, a native of Nutley, New Jersey, shares his fascinating journey from his roots in Essex County to becoming a prominent figure in the local coffee scene. He delves into his early life, influenced by the vibrant culture of his hometown, and his initial foray into architecture at NJIT, which he eventually left to pursue his true passion—coffee.

John recounts his experiences working various coffee jobs during college, which ignited his interest in coffee roasting. He explains how the COVID-19 pandemic provided the perfect opportunity to launch his own coffee business, starting with an online mail-to-order service featuring unique artwork from local artists on the coffee bags. This creative branding approach, inspired by his love for skateboarding and its artistic culture, set Cozz Coffee apart in a crowded market.

The conversation also explores John's musical journey, from his early days playing guitar influenced by punk rock to his current endeavors in the local music scene. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing his multiple passions, including skateboarding, which has taken him on explorative adventures across New Jersey.

John shares insights into the evolution of Cozz Coffee, from its humble beginnings to the addition of a mobile espresso cart and eventually a coffee truck, which now serves customers at various events and farmers markets. He highlights some of his unique coffee creations, such as birch beer espresso and hot honey lemonade espresso, which reflect his innovative approach to the coffee business.

Throughout the episode, John emphasizes the importance of community and creativity in his work, drawing inspiration from his family and friends. He also hints at future projects, including the potential for ready-to-drink coffee cans and expanding his brand's presence.

Listeners will enjoy John's candid storytelling and the inspiring tale of how he turned his diverse interests into a successful and multifaceted career. Tune in to discover more about John Cozz's journey, his creative process, and his vision for the future of Cozz Coffee.

@john.cozz
@cozzcoffee

Music: "Ride" by Jackson Pines
jacksonpines.com

Thank you to our sponsors:
New Jersey Lottery: njlottery.com

Make Cool Sh*t: makecoolshit.co

Albert & Whitney CPAs: awcpasllc.com

Mayo Performing Arts Center: mayoarts.org/events-calendar

Contact the show: mike@greetingsfromthegardenstate.com

Support the Show.