Meet the Makers Mini Interview: Raven Roast
/
Raven Roast Mini Interview
This month, we’re delving into the world of coffee substitutes with the herbal coffee alternative, Raven Roast. This Slocan Valley based business was founded by Brendan Murray-Nellis, an acupuncturist and former coffee enthusiast. We checked in with Brendan's wife, Rachelle, who joined the venture in 2017 and shares her husband's deep passion for the soothing blends that comprise Raven Roast's line of mindfully sourced, organic products. These blends aren't just delicious; they also offer a harmonious experience, leaving you relaxed, energized, and in balance, all without the downsides of caffeine.
Share your story with us in 150 words or less.
Raven Roast was originally thought up by my husband, Brendan Murray-Nellis, R.Ac. while he was attending Acupuncture school and working part time as a barista. Coffee was a huge crutch for him—as it is for many students! He got tired of feeling shaky and wanted to design a drink that energized you while supporting good health, sharpening your mind, and lowering stress.
I joined the team in 2017. We currently run almost every aspect of Raven Roast together, from manufacturing, to ingredient importing, social media to shipping.
Getting from an idea to a small business is a lot of work! When did it first sink in for you that ‘this is really happening’?
In 2019 Raven Roast was a much smaller project. We sold it at Brendan's acupuncture clinic and to a few local grocery stores. I was working as a baker at a local cafe. Then the restaurant closed, and the acupuncture clinic had to temporarily shut down. We were suddenly both at home...a lot. It became possible to put in the time and creative energy that Raven Roast needed to well...grow wings, if you'll excuse my pun.
Out of all your products, which is your personal favourite and why?
My favorite is the Chaga Ramon. Sometimes it surprises me how much it tastes like coffee, and it's a great addition to smoothies and sauces that need a little something extra. I also looooove the Aged Green Yerba Mate in the mornings when I really need to get motivated.
What motivates you on a day-to-day basis?
Mostly yerba mate...I don't know if I'd get much done without it.
What’s your favourite thing about the town or city you live in?
Slocan Valley (unceded Sinixt territory) is absolutely gorgeous. Every once in a while I look at it with fresh eyes and I'm just shocked that I have the privilege to live in a postcard. The fall foliage is stunning right now.
Describe your ideal Sunday morning, including your breakfast.
Mmmm, breakfast is the best. Something hearty and savoury . . . an omelet? Let's get specific and say smoked salmon with capers, avocado and provolone. Fresh sourdough bread. Brendan can eat gluten in this ideal Sunday fantasy, so he gets toast too. A giant carafe of yerba mate and a book. YA fantasy for me and some depressing historical novel with a vague ambiguous ending for Brendan. Somehow our two small children are playing on their own peacefully in this scenario (this is how we know it's fictitious).
What are your personal top three tips for feeling amazing?
It seems so self explanatory, but I don't think it can be said enough. Whenever I am feeling overwhelmed I ask myself the three golden questions. Have I slept enough? Have I taken time for self care? Have I put good nourishing things into my body today? These things seem simple, but we are all so busy they are easy to forget.
Routine: On Their Website | On Instagram | On Facebook