Starting a Business in Uncertain Times: The Donald Era

There’s something magical about coffee. The aroma of freshly roasted beans, the crackling sound as they transform in the drum, the first sip of a perfectly brewed cup—it’s a ritual that connects people across the globe. For years, I’ve dreamed of turning this passion into a business, of sharing my love for coffee with the world. But now, as I stand on the precipice of launching Trailhead Coffee in two weeks—the website is primed and ready, but the beans are still roasting in the roaster and will be ready on launch day—I can’t help but feel a knot of anxiety tightening in my chest.

What if people don’t like the coffee?

It’s a question that keeps me up at night. Coffee is deeply personal. Everyone has their preferences, their rituals, and their favourite coffee. In a world where everyone has an opinion—and isn’t afraid to share it online—the stakes feel impossibly high. A single bad review could spiral into a reputation nightmare. Social media has given consumers a megaphone, and businesses are constantly under the microscope. How do I stand out in a crowded market where every roaster is just a click away?

And then there’s the economic uncertainty. Starting a business in 2025 feels like navigating a stormy sea. With Donald back in the White House and we have our new Prime Minister and an election coming, the political landscape is as polarized as ever. Trade policies, tariffs, and global tensions are reshaping the economy in unpredictable ways. The cost of green coffee beans has skyrocketed to levels we’ve never seen before. Climate change, supply chain disruptions, and increased demand have all contributed to this perfect storm.

I’ve seen this firsthand. In January, I travelled to Costa Rica to visit coffee farms and deepen my understanding of the industry. What I witnessed was both inspiring and sobering. Farmers spoke of unpredictable weather patterns—unseasonable rains, prolonged droughts, and rising temperatures—that were threatening their crops. The political climate added another layer of complexity, with shifting trade agreements and fluctuating export costs. It was a stark reminder that coffee is not just a product; it’s the livelihood of millions of people, and it’s deeply vulnerable to the forces of nature and politics.

How do I price my product fairly while still turning a profit? How do I convince customers that my coffee is worth the premium when their wallets are already stretched thin?

But here’s the thing: despite the fear, despite the uncertainty, I can’t shake the excitement. There’s a thrill in taking a leap of faith, in betting on yourself and my vision. The idea for Trailhead Coffee was born on the West Coast Trail, where my family and I would wake before dawn, sipping coffee as the sun rose over the Pacific. Sitting on a weathered log, watching the waves crash against the shore, I realized I wanted to create a way that captured the spirit of those mornings— something bold, grounding, and full of possibility. Trailhead Coffee!

I’ve spent years reading, months honing my craft, and perfecting my roast profiles. I’ve built a brand that reflects who I am and what matters to me. A life full of adventure, community, friendships, and living a life worth telling. Anyone who knows me knows I love to tell stories—stories of my adventures, of the people I’ve met, and the places I’ve been. But even more, I love to listen. There’s something magical about the way a cup of coffee can open people up, how it becomes the backdrop for laughter, vulnerability, and connection.

In these moments, I’ve found my “why.” Trailhead Coffee isn’t just about great coffee; it’s about living life to its fullest. It’s about gathering around a campfire, swapping stories with friends, and chasing the horizon. It’s about the quiet mornings that inspire us and the bold steps we take into the unknown. Coffee is the thread that ties these moments together, and I wanted to create a brand that celebrates that.

So, as I take this leap, I’m holding onto two things: passion and hope. Passion for the craft, for the beans, for the process of creating something beautiful. And hope—that there are people out there who will appreciate what I’m offering, who will see the value in what I’ve created, and who will join me on this journey.

Yes, the road ahead is uncertain. Yes, there will be challenges. But isn’t that what makes it exciting? To build something from nothing, to pour your heart into a dream, and to see where it takes you—that’s the essence of entrepreneurship.

So here’s to the dreamers, the risk-takers, and the coffee lovers. Here’s to embracing the nerves, the excitement, and the unknown. And here’s to the beans, roasting away as I type this, filling the air with the promise of something new.

Let’s see where this journey takes me.

Cheers,

Chris

Founder, Trailhead Coffee

Trailheadcoffee.ca

Inspired by adventure. Roasted for the journey.