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Who: Trevor Ridgaway (He/Him)
What: Shift leader
Where: Ascend Coffee Roasters, San Marcos, CA
Years in the industry: 1 years
If He Were A Ninja Turtle He Would Be: Michaelangelo
Connect: @AscendRoasters on Instagram
R!WC: How would you describe what you do?
Trevor: I try to spread the good vibes by making our community tasty food and fresh coffee.
R!WC: What is the best thing about your job?
Trevor: I absolutely love making connections and hearing stories from our customers.
R!WC: What is the worst thing about the job?
Trevor: The worst thing about my job can be the lack of A/C during the hot summers. Though suffering with the rest of our team in the heat makes it a bit better, knowing everyone is pushing through the same struggles in order to reach our goals.
R!WC: Do you have a first memory of when coffee became something more important to you?
Trevor: I actually didn't even like coffee when I found the job! I loved tea but, as soon as I started to see peoples day relied on the coffee we were giving out, I wanted to understand and perfect the drinks I was making.
Ascend Roasters recently (like, really recently) opened a second cafe location in the La Costa neighborhood of Carlsbad, CA. You can read all about it in the blog post on the Ascend Roasters coffee blog.
R!WC: What have you learned about life from working in coffee?
Trevor: So much! I think my biggest lesson was that everyone views life differently. The way I live is great for me but not necessarily good for someone else. Some people like simple coffee and others like fancy latte's. As long as I can accept that people's views are different from mine, it's much easier to listen and be understanding of others. Plus you learn more if you listen!
R!WC: If you could share one piece of advice to a new barista, what would it be?
Trevor: Be patient with yourself and keep pushing, even if your shots don't pour right. You'll eventually find the right technique.
R!WC: When you aren't at the coffee shop/roaster/etcetera, what are you doing in life? Who are you?
Trevor: I love to play guitar and trumpet. Also on Fridays, I host DnD and Cyberpunk table-top role-playing games with my best friends! I also go on hikes and bike rides all the time.
R!WC: What is your favorite way to drink coffee?
Trevor: 20oz Cold Brew all day. Perfection.
R!WC: What is your favorite coffee drink to make?
Trevor: I love making cappuccinos! Getting the frothed milk just right with no bubbles is so satisfying.
R!WC: Is there anything else you'd like the world to know?
Trevor: We're all mad here! Respect each others craziness and listen more than you talk.
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Trevor was recommended by former R!WC podcast guest Erin Harper, Founder of Ascend Coffee Roasters in San Marcos, CA. Check out the episode she appeared on at the link below.
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