https://simplecast.com Creative Alchemy Creative Alchemy is a captivating podcast that explores the transformative power of creativity through intimate conversations with visionary artists, innovators, and everyday heroes. This series goes beyond the surface, celebrating unsung individuals from diverse fields who harness imagination, passion, and ingenuity to create something extraordinary. Each episode delves into personal stories of determination and creative expression, proving that creativity knows no boundaries. Whether you're an entrepreneur, educator, scientist, or dreamer, Creative Alchemy invites you to challenge expectations, embrace your creative potential, and unlock the magic within. 2025 Straw to Gold, Inc en Mon, 5 Jan 2026 17:48:56 +0000 Mon, 5 Jan 2026 17:49:07 +0000 https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com Creative Alchemy https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/cbab3684-8e58-4eb8-90ea-fc7be75f1dce/233700b7-b8ed-475e-b820-212982cd386b/3000x3000/jul21-creative-20alchemy-podcast-cover-design-201-revised-201a.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com episodic Creative Alchemy is a captivating podcast that explores the transformative power of creativity through intimate conversations with visionary artists, innovators, and everyday heroes. This series goes beyond the surface, celebrating unsung individuals from diverse fields who harness imagination, passion, and ingenuity to create something extraordinary. Each episode delves into personal stories of determination and creative expression, proving that creativity knows no boundaries. Whether you're an entrepreneur, educator, scientist, or dreamer, Creative Alchemy invites you to challenge expectations, embrace your creative potential, and unlock the magic within. Benjamin Ariff, Straw to Gold false https://feeds.simplecast.com/e6QD7n4l Straw to Gold sophie@straw-gold.com cc856060-445e-4793-92ef-0bb006f01922 E08: The Sound of Leadership with Bob Rosenthal Our host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Bob Rosenthal, a leader whose career spans music, film, and post-production sound. From his early days at Capitol Records to founding Formosa Group, Rosenthal shares how curiosity, culture, and relationships have shaped his path — and why the real magic of sound lies in people, not technology.

They explore the emotional language of audio, the power of intentional silence, and how creative leadership is built on empathy, trust, and shared purpose. Rosenthal reflects on the early days of Formosa, building a culture-first company, and what it takes to keep creativity alive as the industry evolves.

A thoughtful look at the intersection of artistry and leadership — and a reminder that the best sound begins with listening.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Mon, 5 Jan 2026 17:48:56 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Bob Rosenthal, Benjamin Ariff) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e08-the-sound-of-leadership-with-bob-rosenthal-Q_1VrRiU Our host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Bob Rosenthal, a leader whose career spans music, film, and post-production sound. From his early days at Capitol Records to founding Formosa Group, Rosenthal shares how curiosity, culture, and relationships have shaped his path — and why the real magic of sound lies in people, not technology.

They explore the emotional language of audio, the power of intentional silence, and how creative leadership is built on empathy, trust, and shared purpose. Rosenthal reflects on the early days of Formosa, building a culture-first company, and what it takes to keep creativity alive as the industry evolves.

A thoughtful look at the intersection of artistry and leadership — and a reminder that the best sound begins with listening.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E08: The Sound of Leadership with Bob Rosenthal Bob Rosenthal, Benjamin Ariff 00:55:26 In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with post-production leader Bob Rosenthal to explore how sound, storytelling, and leadership intertwine. From his early days at Capitol Records to founding Formosa Group, Rosenthal reflects on the role of relationships, curiosity, and culture in shaping a creative career — and why the soul of sound will always come from people, not technology. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with post-production leader Bob Rosenthal to explore how sound, storytelling, and leadership intertwine. From his early days at Capitol Records to founding Formosa Group, Rosenthal reflects on the role of relationships, curiosity, and culture in shaping a creative career — and why the soul of sound will always come from people, not technology. false full 8 30e84a68-56a4-4403-b0f9-909efc9ae2e2 E07: Playful Architecture and Community Design with Barbara Bestor In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Barbara Bestor—architect, cultural curator, and founder of Bestor Architecture—for a conversation about creativity, community, and the evolving role of architecture.

From her early inspirations in Cambridge to leading bold projects like Sunnylands and community centers in Los Angeles, Barbara shares how her extroverted approach and playful design ethos break away from rigid architectural norms. She discusses how color, cultural references, and even the “mundane” (like coffee shops or public bathrooms) can become powerful design moments that shape how we experience daily life.

Together, they dive into topics including:

  • How childhood creativity and curiosity shaped Barbara’s path into architecture
  • The importance of atmosphere, color, and cultural dialogue in design
  • Rethinking everyday spaces—like EV charging stations and coffee shops—as opportunities for community and joy
  • The intersection of architecture, sustainability, and social equity in post‑fire rebuilding efforts
  • Mentorship, diversity, and navigating a historically male‑dominated field
  • Why adaptive reuse and playful, human‑centered design are essential for the future

Barbara also reflects on her evolution as a designer, why she believes architecture is more like jazz than rigid rules, and how she continues to find inspiration from global travel, local culture, and California’s rich architectural landscape.

If you’ve ever wondered how the spaces around us can shape not just our cities but our emotional lives, this conversation will leave you seeing architecture in a whole new way.


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Tue, 5 Aug 2025 23:54:38 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Straw to Gold ) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/playful-architecture-and-community-design-with-barbara-bestor-NXLfdmO_ In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Barbara Bestor—architect, cultural curator, and founder of Bestor Architecture—for a conversation about creativity, community, and the evolving role of architecture.

From her early inspirations in Cambridge to leading bold projects like Sunnylands and community centers in Los Angeles, Barbara shares how her extroverted approach and playful design ethos break away from rigid architectural norms. She discusses how color, cultural references, and even the “mundane” (like coffee shops or public bathrooms) can become powerful design moments that shape how we experience daily life.

Together, they dive into topics including:

  • How childhood creativity and curiosity shaped Barbara’s path into architecture
  • The importance of atmosphere, color, and cultural dialogue in design
  • Rethinking everyday spaces—like EV charging stations and coffee shops—as opportunities for community and joy
  • The intersection of architecture, sustainability, and social equity in post‑fire rebuilding efforts
  • Mentorship, diversity, and navigating a historically male‑dominated field
  • Why adaptive reuse and playful, human‑centered design are essential for the future

Barbara also reflects on her evolution as a designer, why she believes architecture is more like jazz than rigid rules, and how she continues to find inspiration from global travel, local culture, and California’s rich architectural landscape.

If you’ve ever wondered how the spaces around us can shape not just our cities but our emotional lives, this conversation will leave you seeing architecture in a whole new way.


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E07: Playful Architecture and Community Design with Barbara Bestor Straw to Gold 01:10:10 Architect Barbara Bestor joins Creative Alchemy to explore how architecture shapes our daily lives, blending color, culture, and community to create spaces that are both functional and deeply human. Architect Barbara Bestor joins Creative Alchemy to explore how architecture shapes our daily lives, blending color, culture, and community to create spaces that are both functional and deeply human. false full 7 03456f6f-3455-40c5-8a62-0afda95b32b5 E06: Engineering Health Equity with Tej Patel In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Tej Patel, CEO and co-founder of Fluxergy—a company building powerful, decentralized diagnostic tools designed to make high-quality testing more accessible and affordable worldwide.

From a garage startup sparked by a conversation in a public health class to a disruptive force in healthcare technology, Tej walks us through his creative path from aerospace engineering to healthcare innovation. He unpacks how Fluxergy’s foundational pivot into veterinary diagnostics enabled sustainable growth and how their engineering-first, cost-conscious approach is solving real-world problems in both low-income nations and underserved regions of the United States.

This conversation explores how creativity isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about problem-solving, persistence, and taking radically practical steps. You’ll hear insights on leadership, market timing, and the deep belief that everyone deserves access to timely, affordable healthcare. Whether you’re a founder, builder, or dreamer, this episode is a masterclass in mission-driven innovation.


 


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Thu, 26 Jun 2025 19:15:19 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (tejpatel, benjaminariff) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e06-engineering-health-equity-with-tej-patel-z3v9aVbq In this episode of Creative Alchemy, host Benjamin Ariff sits down with Tej Patel, CEO and co-founder of Fluxergy—a company building powerful, decentralized diagnostic tools designed to make high-quality testing more accessible and affordable worldwide.

From a garage startup sparked by a conversation in a public health class to a disruptive force in healthcare technology, Tej walks us through his creative path from aerospace engineering to healthcare innovation. He unpacks how Fluxergy’s foundational pivot into veterinary diagnostics enabled sustainable growth and how their engineering-first, cost-conscious approach is solving real-world problems in both low-income nations and underserved regions of the United States.

This conversation explores how creativity isn’t just about inspiration—it’s about problem-solving, persistence, and taking radically practical steps. You’ll hear insights on leadership, market timing, and the deep belief that everyone deserves access to timely, affordable healthcare. Whether you’re a founder, builder, or dreamer, this episode is a masterclass in mission-driven innovation.


 


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E06: Engineering Health Equity with Tej Patel tejpatel, benjaminariff 01:00:00 Tej Patel shares how engineering, purpose, and persistence intersect to reimagine global access to diagnostic healthcare. Tej Patel shares how engineering, purpose, and persistence intersect to reimagine global access to diagnostic healthcare. false full 6 53df7bb4-a1fc-4b3b-885a-cc26e09be4c2 E05: Feeding the Soul – Seasonal Cooking and Jewish Storytelling with Sonya Sanford In this heartfelt episode of Creative Alchemy, we’re joined by Sonya Sanford—a chef, cookbook author, and writer whose work beautifully blends Jewish heritage, Pacific Northwest bounty, and the emotional weight of food. Sonya reflects on her journey as a first generation American, how food became a bridge between generations, and the powerful role cooking plays in personal and cultural identity.

From childhood comfort dishes to the sensory rituals of baking challah, Sonya reminds us how food carries deep emotional resonance. She also talks about her journey as a restaurant owner, the joy and complexity of running a deli rooted in Jewish diaspora cuisine, and how writing her cookbook Braids helped preserve that legacy after closing her business during the pandemic.

Sonya also shares her love of seasonal, local ingredients and the farmers markets that inspire her hyper-seasonal approach to cooking. She offers thoughtful reflections on the importance of community-based food economies, the value of honoring food traditions, and the urgent need to support Jewish food culture in Portland and beyond.

Whether you’re a curious cook, a supporter of local food systems, or someone seeking connection through stories and flavors, this episode offers inspiration, warmth, and plenty of food for thought.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Fri, 2 May 2025 20:20:58 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Sonya Sanford, Benjamin Ariff) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e05-feeding-the-soul-seasonal-cooking-and-jewish-storytelling-with-sonya-sanford-I2_nSh70 In this heartfelt episode of Creative Alchemy, we’re joined by Sonya Sanford—a chef, cookbook author, and writer whose work beautifully blends Jewish heritage, Pacific Northwest bounty, and the emotional weight of food. Sonya reflects on her journey as a first generation American, how food became a bridge between generations, and the powerful role cooking plays in personal and cultural identity.

From childhood comfort dishes to the sensory rituals of baking challah, Sonya reminds us how food carries deep emotional resonance. She also talks about her journey as a restaurant owner, the joy and complexity of running a deli rooted in Jewish diaspora cuisine, and how writing her cookbook Braids helped preserve that legacy after closing her business during the pandemic.

Sonya also shares her love of seasonal, local ingredients and the farmers markets that inspire her hyper-seasonal approach to cooking. She offers thoughtful reflections on the importance of community-based food economies, the value of honoring food traditions, and the urgent need to support Jewish food culture in Portland and beyond.

Whether you’re a curious cook, a supporter of local food systems, or someone seeking connection through stories and flavors, this episode offers inspiration, warmth, and plenty of food for thought.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E05: Feeding the Soul – Seasonal Cooking and Jewish Storytelling with Sonya Sanford Sonya Sanford, Benjamin Ariff 00:28:07 Chef, writer, and teacher Sonya Sanford shares her journey from her roots as a first generation American, to her culinary advocacy and how food connects us to memories, places, and our identity. Chef, writer, and teacher Sonya Sanford shares her journey from her roots as a first generation American, to her culinary advocacy and how food connects us to memories, places, and our identity. farmers markets, food writing, emotional connection to food, refugee stories, women in food, immigrant experience, culinary heritage, cookbook author, jewish food, food culture, hyper-seasonal cuisine, pacific northwest, community nourishment, challah, sustainable cooking., seasonal cooking, storytelling, food and memory, cultural identity, local food systems false full 5 6bf6d401-24df-4f48-b9ec-60a7df15fc73 E04: The Art and Alchemy of Food with Leather Storrs Food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, a story, and a way to connect with others. Leather Storrs, a chef with a passion for innovation, understands this better than most. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we explore his journey from learning classic techniques at The French Laundry to creating dishes that challenge and delight through humor, presentation, and unexpected flavors.

Leather dives into his philosophy of cooking, where he balances creativity and technique to craft dishes that not only taste incredible but also tell a story. He reflects on his early influences, his love for wordplay in food, and how his curiosity led him to explore everything from molecular gastronomy to cannabis-infused dining. With an adventurous spirit and a knack for pushing culinary norms, Leather shares the successes—and spectacular failures—that have shaped his career.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a creative thinker, or someone who loves a good story, this episode will leave you inspired to experiment in your own kitchen and beyond.


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Wed, 19 Mar 2025 23:30:00 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Straw to Gold ) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e04-the-art-and-alchemy-of-food-with-leather-storrs-y2GhGeSz Food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, a story, and a way to connect with others. Leather Storrs, a chef with a passion for innovation, understands this better than most. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we explore his journey from learning classic techniques at The French Laundry to creating dishes that challenge and delight through humor, presentation, and unexpected flavors.

Leather dives into his philosophy of cooking, where he balances creativity and technique to craft dishes that not only taste incredible but also tell a story. He reflects on his early influences, his love for wordplay in food, and how his curiosity led him to explore everything from molecular gastronomy to cannabis-infused dining. With an adventurous spirit and a knack for pushing culinary norms, Leather shares the successes—and spectacular failures—that have shaped his career.

Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a creative thinker, or someone who loves a good story, this episode will leave you inspired to experiment in your own kitchen and beyond.


 

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E04: The Art and Alchemy of Food with Leather Storrs Straw to Gold 00:36:15 In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Leather Storrs—a chef, storyteller, and culinary innovator whose approach to food is as inventive as it is delicious. From training with Thomas Keller to pioneering cannabis-infused cuisine, Leather has always pushed boundaries and redefined what’s possible in the kitchen. He shares his journey, creative process, and the ways food can serve as both an artistic expression and a catalyst for human connection. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Leather Storrs—a chef, storyteller, and culinary innovator whose approach to food is as inventive as it is delicious. From training with Thomas Keller to pioneering cannabis-infused cuisine, Leather has always pushed boundaries and redefined what’s possible in the kitchen. He shares his journey, creative process, and the ways food can serve as both an artistic expression and a catalyst for human connection. false full 4 5f072a83-b45f-4f41-a29b-d2b801df1c7a E03: Crafting Legacy and Building Community with Sam Tannahill True success is built on passion, relationships, and a commitment to values. Sam Tannahill’s journey reminds us that meaningful impact comes from leading with authenticity, fostering community, and continuously seeking new challenges—both in business and in life.

Sam shares how his passion for people, process, and sustainability shaped his career from working in a Los Angeles wine shop to co-founding A to Z Wineworks, Oregon’s largest winery. Along the way, he reflects on the challenges and triumphs of growing a business rooted in community and sustainability—from becoming the world’s first B Corp certified winery to redefining relationships with growers. 

In this deeply personal conversation, Sam also discusses his transition beyond the wine world, his pursuit of endurance challenges, and his search for meaningful community in the next chapter of his life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a wine enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainable business, this episode offers a rich blend of insights and inspiration.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Wed, 19 Feb 2025 03:45:13 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Sam Tannahill, Benjamin Ariff) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e03-crafting-legacy-and-building-community-with-sam-tannahill-w7BNq4_P True success is built on passion, relationships, and a commitment to values. Sam Tannahill’s journey reminds us that meaningful impact comes from leading with authenticity, fostering community, and continuously seeking new challenges—both in business and in life.

Sam shares how his passion for people, process, and sustainability shaped his career from working in a Los Angeles wine shop to co-founding A to Z Wineworks, Oregon’s largest winery. Along the way, he reflects on the challenges and triumphs of growing a business rooted in community and sustainability—from becoming the world’s first B Corp certified winery to redefining relationships with growers. 

In this deeply personal conversation, Sam also discusses his transition beyond the wine world, his pursuit of endurance challenges, and his search for meaningful community in the next chapter of his life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a wine enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainable business, this episode offers a rich blend of insights and inspiration.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E03: Crafting Legacy and Building Community with Sam Tannahill Sam Tannahill, Benjamin Ariff 00:49:01 In this episode of Creative Alchemy, Sam Tannahill, a pioneer in the Pacific Northwest wine industry, shares his journey from a chance job at a wine shop to becoming a leader in sustainable winemaking and co-founding A to Z Wineworks. Sam reflects on his career milestones, the importance of building strong relationships with growers, and his commitment to community-driven business practices. He also opens up about his personal quest for balance, adventure, and new inspiration as he steps into the next chapter of his life. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, Sam Tannahill, a pioneer in the Pacific Northwest wine industry, shares his journey from a chance job at a wine shop to becoming a leader in sustainable winemaking and co-founding A to Z Wineworks. Sam reflects on his career milestones, the importance of building strong relationships with growers, and his commitment to community-driven business practices. He also opens up about his personal quest for balance, adventure, and new inspiration as he steps into the next chapter of his life. creativity, business transformation, wine industry, purpose-driven leadership., endurance challenges, relationship building, authentic storytelling, entrepreneurship, oregon wines, community leaders, visionary leadership, passion projects, leadership, challenging the status quo, legacy building, sustainability, self-discovery, innovation, ingenuity, personal growth, b corp false full 3 4445d5e4-742e-4d45-9d9d-ed3540774001 E02: Leading with Purpose and Passion with Joth Ricci In this engaging conversation, Joth Ricci reflects on his journey of transforming iconic brands while staying deeply connected to the communities they serve.

From fostering innovation at companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Dutch Bros to leading Burgerville with a focus on sustainability and impact, Joth’s story highlights the power of leadership rooted in understanding and collaboration.

Whether you’re a business enthusiast, a community advocate, or seeking inspiration for your own endeavors, this episode offers a wealth of insight and ideas to spark your next big move.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Thu, 9 Jan 2025 21:35:00 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Joth Ricci, Benjamin Ariff) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e02-leading-with-purpose-and-passion-with-joth-ricci-BlMnhH_u In this engaging conversation, Joth Ricci reflects on his journey of transforming iconic brands while staying deeply connected to the communities they serve.

From fostering innovation at companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Dutch Bros to leading Burgerville with a focus on sustainability and impact, Joth’s story highlights the power of leadership rooted in understanding and collaboration.

Whether you’re a business enthusiast, a community advocate, or seeking inspiration for your own endeavors, this episode offers a wealth of insight and ideas to spark your next big move.

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E02: Leading with Purpose and Passion with Joth Ricci Joth Ricci, Benjamin Ariff 00:34:12 In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Joth Ricci, a dynamic leader with a legacy of transforming iconic brands and championing the community. From guiding companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Adelsheim Vineyard, and Dutch Bros to his current role as executive chairman of Burgerville, Joth shares his journey, leadership insights, and passion for creating meaningful impact in Oregon and beyond. In this episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Joth Ricci, a dynamic leader with a legacy of transforming iconic brands and championing the community. From guiding companies like Stumptown Coffee Roasters, Adelsheim Vineyard, and Dutch Bros to his current role as executive chairman of Burgerville, Joth shares his journey, leadership insights, and passion for creating meaningful impact in Oregon and beyond. business transformation, inspiration, brand innovation., authentic storytelling, entrepreneurship, community leaders, visionary leadership, passion projects, extraordinary people, community impact, leadership, challenging the status quo, collaboration, sustainability, innovation, ingenuity, purpose-driven leadership false full 2 7faef019-669d-41bf-ad68-b5e119a3f359 E01: Cultivating Community with Francis Kungu In this heartfelt conversation, Francis shares his journey, from his roots in Kenya to Oregon, and explores what it takes to cultivate community and why the most powerful contributions come from people who are deeply embedded in and understand the needs of those communities. 

Francis’ story is a testament to the idea that you can build a sustainable business that enriches the lives of everyone it touches - farmer to consumer.  Whether you're a coffee enthusiast, a community leader, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will leave you with plenty to brew on.

Learn more about Francis Kungu and his groundbreaking businesses Exilior and Jamii Coffee by visiting:

https://exilior.com/ 

https://jamiicoffee.com/

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> Mon, 9 Dec 2024 22:02:00 +0000 sophie@straw-gold.com (Benjamin Ariff, Francis Kungu) https://creative-alchemy.simplecast.com/episodes/e01-cultivating-community-with-francis-kungu-osPXjZG6 In this heartfelt conversation, Francis shares his journey, from his roots in Kenya to Oregon, and explores what it takes to cultivate community and why the most powerful contributions come from people who are deeply embedded in and understand the needs of those communities. 

Francis’ story is a testament to the idea that you can build a sustainable business that enriches the lives of everyone it touches - farmer to consumer.  Whether you're a coffee enthusiast, a community leader, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode will leave you with plenty to brew on.

Learn more about Francis Kungu and his groundbreaking businesses Exilior and Jamii Coffee by visiting:

https://exilior.com/ 

https://jamiicoffee.com/

Creative Alchemy is a production of Straw to Gold, Inc.
 

Music written and performed by Aaron Peterson. Visit https://www.aaronkmusic.com/ to learn more about Aaron.

 

To learn about all things Straw to Gold, please visit our website www.straw-gold.com or find us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/straw_to_gold/ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/straw-to-gold/

]]> E01: Cultivating Community with Francis Kungu Benjamin Ariff, Francis Kungu 00:50:41 In the debut episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Francis Kungu, an inspiring entrepreneur from Kenya who now calls Oregon home. Francis and his wife run a coffee import business Jamii Coffee (Jamii is a Kiswahili word for “Community”), and Exilior, a roasted coffee and macadamia nut distributor.  In the debut episode of Creative Alchemy, we sit down with Francis Kungu, an inspiring entrepreneur from Kenya who now calls Oregon home. Francis and his wife run a coffee import business Jamii Coffee (Jamii is a Kiswahili word for “Community”), and Exilior, a roasted coffee and macadamia nut distributor.  creativity, personal growth., inspiration, creative potential, visionaries, creative transformation, authentic storytelling, entrepreneurship, unsung heroes, community leaders, passion projects, faith and determination, extraordinary people, challenging the status quo, artistic expression, breaking boundaries, imagination, self-discovery, innovation, ingenuity false full 1