We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris McColl and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career in coffee has been a rollercoaster, to say the least! I didn’t believe it to be a career until I was about 6 years into it. Now, hitting a 12 year milestone, I feel more grounded than ever in my passion for such a niche and complex space.

One of the most challenging things in navigating the coffee space was the lack of available mentorship. I’ve often been in working situations where I was either the most proficient or the most passionate & curious (sometimes all the above!). It has made it difficult to feel seen and heard, especially as the entrepreneurial components of my coffee career really started expanding. This experience has been a big driving force for me to extend my expertise and lessons as a mentor and supporter to other young individuals and budding coffee professionals.

I think what truly sets me apart my zealousness. I tend to be my strongest critic, which has always pushed me to strive farther and elevate my craft higher. Having had to fend for myself and work at a young age, I’ve spent a lot of time “at the bottom of the food chain”. Growing from this experience has given me a unique perspective on the value of every human in the spectrum of a business, which includes the farmers that develop this product we cherish so deeply.

Through Our Spot Coffee & Goods, I will be able to use my years of consulting expertise, operational know-how, and technical prowess to build a sustainable business with people at the forefront. I also aim to extend a level of transparency in our operations and structure that I have yet to see in the industry.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, having just moved into Long Beach about a week ago, I’m sure some of my answers will change! If you’re a fan of In n Out, then you need to go to the Window. They opened a new location on 2nd St. and will definitely change the way you view other quick burger spots.

Another impeccable spot is El Barrio Cantina off 4th St. They have a stellar space and buildout, lots of diversity in menu options, and an epic selection at their bar.

Other honorable mentions goes to Stereoscope Coffee, Good Time Coffee, Rose Park Roasters, The Wild Chive, Little Coyote Pizza, and Alder & Sage.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There is no such thing as a one person-team! I absolutely have to give credit to my wife and business partner, Ali. Over the course of our 6 year relationship, she has continuously shown up to support and encourage me. It is all too common, especially in the world of entrepreneurship, to be faced with imposter syndrome. I am incredibly grateful to have someone in my corner that can help remind me of my worth in the most challenging times and be a solid reminder as to why bringing Our Spot to life is so important.

Speaking of entrepreneurship, I certainly have to show out two other fellow supporters: Brooke Harris of Good Mylk Co,, and Jeannine & Jeff Johnston of Zen Consulting. Brooke is a powerhouse entrepreneur who has done it all and then some. She has extended support in ways I didn’t even know I needed, and has always reminded me of the bigger picture. Jeannine & Jeff have been something akin to the “cool aunt & uncle” that have provided heaps and heaps of wisdom from lots of lived experience. Having their expertise in my corner has truly set me up for confident success.

Instagram: @thecoffeewarlock & @ourspotcoffeeandgoods

Image Credits
Noah Vernick and Kelsey Pulver

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