569: Founder Friday! w/ Hong Shin and Kenny Kuk of Haan Coffee Roasters in Orlando Florida!

569: Founder Friday! w/ Hong Shin and Kenny Kuk of Haan Coffee Roasters in Orlando Florida!

Author: Chris Deferio October 31, 2025 Duration: 52:24

It's Founder Friday! I am happy to welcome to the show Kenny Kuk, and Hong Shin of Haan Coffee Roasters in Orlando Florida!

Haan Coffee has been in operation since 2020 starting first as a roastery and quickly a cafe space to showcase the beautiful coffees and hospitality they are known for. The four friends Suzie Shin, Kenny Kuk, Albert Kang that founded Haan had an affinity for business, coffee, and a desire to serve people and honor their shared Korean culture. Haan Coffee Roasters was born as a project to share these things with the diverse guests in their Orlando, FL community.

I have enjoyed their hospitality and coffee several times in recent years and am happy we could sit down with Kenny and Hong to tell the tale.

We discuss:

  • The idea that started their coffee journey
  • going from popcorn popper to proper roaster
  • developing the standards for coffee and service
  • how to assemble a winning team
  • leadership with empathy
  • how to curate a coffee menu that is accessible but adventurous
  • communication and working together as an ownership team 
  • The unique Korean culture and architecture that goes into their cafe
  • Why it is critical to know your staff in order to meet their needs
  • Advice to other owners on how to build a people first brand

 

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Running a coffee shop is about so much more than pulling great shots. It's a complex dance of craft, culture, and commerce that demands a unique kind of leadership. That's the space where Keys To The Shop : Equipping Coffee Shop Leaders lives. Hosted by Chris Deferio, this podcast digs into the real, often unspoken challenges faced by owners, managers, and aspiring leaders in the specialty coffee world. Each conversation moves beyond abstract theory to deliver concrete, usable strategies you can apply directly to your operation. You'll hear from a diverse range of voices, including seasoned coffee professionals and insightful experts from other fields, all focused on the practicalities of building a thriving business. Episodes tackle the full spectrum of running a shop, from daily systems and financial health to fostering a positive team environment and developing your own skills as a leader. The aim is to provide a genuine resource for growth, whether you're looking to refine your barista program, improve your shop's profitability, or scale your vision thoughtfully. Tune in for honest discussions that equip you with more than just inspiration-they offer the tangible keys to building a better, more sustainable coffee business. This podcast understands that your passion is for coffee, but your success depends on mastering the craft of leadership.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Keys To The Shop : Equipping Coffee Shop Leaders
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