45. How To REALLY Innovate: Brandon Eastman's Bentley's Coffee Journey

SUMMARY: In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Brandon Eastman, the innovative mind behind Bentley's Coffee. Brandon's journey from a Dutch Bros franchisee to creating his own unique brand is nothing short of inspiring. Situated in mid-level Oregon, just south of Portland, Bentley's Coffee has not only expanded to multiple locations but has also cultivated a beloved community culture. Brandon shares the story behind Bentley's, named after his 18-and-a-half-year-old Yorkie Shih Tzu, who embodies the brand's friendly and welcoming spirit. The conversation dives into the unique aspects of Bentley's Coffee, such as their commitment to crafting homemade syrups and ingredients, their innovative promotional strategies, and their dedication to community involvement, especially through initiatives supporting local animal shelters. Listeners will learn about the challenges and triumphs of creating a distinct coffee experience in a competitive market, the importance of building a strong company culture, and the benefits of focusing on a niche—in Bentley's case, catering to both coffee lovers and their furry companions. From the delightful pup shakes made with real bananas and organic peanut butter to their extensive promotional campaigns, Bentley's Coffee stands out by offering something truly special. Join us for an insightful and heartwarming discussion with Brandon Eastman, as we explore what it takes to build a successful and unique coffee business in today's market. Whether you're a coffee entrepreneur or a lover of a good brew, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 5:20 Bentley's brand is for the dogs 13:27 A drink for every week of the year 17:42 Made in house 25:42 Future plans for growing Bentley's