Episode 012: A Conversation with Gary Ford II [Part I]

As of today most people overlook the Udom Suk neighborhood in Bangkok in terms of coffee, culture, and community. Traditionally it takes major development to improve the cultural climate of specific areas. However, we are living in an era where traditions are broken regularly. In this particular case, tradition is broken on behalf of progression and innovation. Gary Ford II joins Reggie Black to share a portion of his masterplan and how he intends to be in the forefront of reshaping Udom Suk. Alongside his wife, Michelle Ford, Gary is building a mixed use space, La Mesa Coffee Co. that will combine several components that he is particularly interest in bringing to the community. He is introducing his vision through coffee, but there are so many layers to the overall experience. The nucleus of his work is social impact, which he believes is very important to building his venture.  Gary has done work as a Christian Missionary. He has devoted his time serving community organizations and refugee initiatives. As a global citizen that has lived in several different countries, during this conversation Gary takes us on an amazing journey outlining his childhood, and why he has decided to call Bangkok his home. The human experience will connect the dots for us if we are open to receiving the signs, and follow them.  Essentially, Gary is an example of what the impossible can present once you decide to forge forward on a decision and create something bigger than yourself. His story is also a classic example of trusting the process and allowing resilience to guide your work. Gary is excited about this being the first project that he builds from the ground up and in time wants to share his vision with several places around the world.  Follow Gary's journey via social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter) at @gjford2. You can also follow the journey of La Mesa Coffee Co. via social media (Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter) at @LaMesaCoffee.