Caitlin Campbell, the dynamic force behind Street Brew Coffee, is more than just a small business owner. She’s a content creator, a TikTok star, a skilled coffee roaster, a welcoming barista, and a friend to many. In her 30 years, Caitlin has built a multifaceted career that truly embodies passion and purpose.
Together with her father, affectionately known as “Papa Street Brew,” Caitlin is the heart and soul of Street Brew Coffee. This beloved duo is a fixture at pop-up events across the Greater Toronto Area, serving exceptional coffee with a smile. But their impact extends beyond just events; they roast incredible coffee beans for a growing community of loyal customers and create engaging content on social media platforms that resonates with coffee lovers everywhere.
I had the pleasure of meeting Caitlin and Ross at SCA EXPO last spring and was immediately captivated by their story. It was clear that Street Brew Coffee was something special, a story worth sharing. As our Coffee Roaster of the Month for August 2024, we are excited to delve into the journey of Street Brew Coffee and Caitlin’s inspiring path in the world of specialty coffee.
From Academia to Coffee: An Unexpected Brew
“Hey! I’m the co-founder of Street Brew Coffee, a social enterprise specialty coffee company in Toronto, Canada,” Caitlin introduces herself. “And alongside that, I create content to help people brew better coffee at home!”
Many know Caitlin through her engaging social media presence on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. But her entry into the world of specialty coffee was far from planned. Originally pursuing a PhD in theology in Dallas with aspirations of becoming a university professor, life took an unexpected turn with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel restrictions kept her from returning to Dallas for nearly two years. During this time, her father, already a hobbyist coffee roaster, suggested they explore coffee roasting together. This unforeseen circumstance sparked the beginning of Street Brew Coffee.
The Rise of a Coffee Content Creator
As COVID-19 restrictions intensified, all in-person retail events for 2020, 2021, and 2022 were canceled. Seizing an opportunity to connect with audiences digitally, Caitlin began creating video content in late February 2021. For the first nine months, she dedicated herself to producing three to four videos daily on TikTok. Her initial goal was to reach 20,000 followers, a target that seemed ambitious at the time.
Her early videos focused on accessible coffee brewing methods using affordable equipment, aiming to empower viewers to make quality coffee at home. Creative coffee recipes also became a popular feature, capturing the interest of a rapidly growing audience. The unexpected surge in followers encouraged Caitlin to continue and expand her content creation efforts.
Caitlin Campbell showcasing various coffee brewing methods
Navigating the Trolls and Staying Positive
Social media, while powerful for connection, also has its downsides. The inevitable negativity of online trolling and criticism is a challenge many content creators face. Caitlin acknowledges the difficulties, stating, “Yes, the trolls and haters are very difficult to handle, and there is a very dark side to social media platforms. You must remain positive in who you are, don’t let the trolls win, and have a very positive and strong support team.” Maintaining a strong sense of self and a supportive network has been crucial in navigating these challenges.
The Bright Side of Social Media: Connection and Opportunities
Despite the negativity, social media has opened doors to incredible experiences. For Caitlin, the most rewarding aspect has been the positive impact on her audience. “The opportunity to positively touch the lives of many folks who reach out and thank me for my content will always be my fondest experiences.” Beyond personal fulfillment, social media growth has fueled business expansion and elevated her personal brand, leading to collaborations and content opportunities with various brands. A notable highlight was her invitation to the “Your Mom’s House” podcast with Tom Segura and Christina P, further expanding her reach and influence.
Caitlin Campbell with coffee equipment, creating content for social media
Brewing Coffee with a Purpose: Supporting the Homeless
A core value of Street Brew Coffee is its commitment to social responsibility. “I see on your website the sale of every bag of your coffee and merchandise provides funds that will directly impact the homeless. Where does this passion to support those who are marginalized and homeless come from?” I asked Caitlin.
“My family has always reached out to help the homeless and marginalized,” Caitlin explained. “This is something I witnessed growing up and want to continue for as long as I can. We are on track to donate 1,000 pounds of fresh roasted coffee to shelters, soup kitchens, and street outreach vans in 2024.” This deep-rooted passion for helping those in need is woven into the fabric of Street Brew Coffee, making every purchase a contribution to a greater cause.
Street Brew Coffee trailer, a mobile coffee shop, serving customers
Toronto’s Thriving Specialty Coffee Community
Operating from Toronto, ON, Canada, Street Brew Coffee is part of a vibrant specialty coffee scene. “So, your home-base is Toronto, ON (Canada). Can you tell us a little bit more about what the specialty coffee community is like there? What do you love?” I inquired.
“We have a thriving specialty coffee community in Toronto that took a beating during COVID but is now seeming to bounce back,” Caitlin shared. “We do have all the major coffee conglomerates here, but I tend to seek the small specialty cafes. I love visiting the small independent cafes and enjoying what they have to offer.” This appreciation for local, independent businesses underscores Street Brew Coffee’s own ethos and commitment to community.
Close-up shot of Street Brew Coffee beans, highlighting their roasted texture and quality
Behind the Scenes: The Life of a Coffee Entrepreneur
Caitlin masterfully shares the “life of a 30-year-old small-business owner who makes coffee for a living” through her social media. But what goes on behind the scenes? “…but what have been some of the behind-the-scenes experiences that people might not know or realize go into the day-to-day of doing this full-time?” I asked, curious about the less visible aspects of her work.
“We operate a very busy website, a seasonal coffee trailer {from May to end of October}, corporate coffee catering for special events, constant demand for new videos, and a growing brand portfolio,” Caitlin detailed. “There are constant demands on my time and always seems like not enough time in the day. I absolutely love it all, but the demands on my time is something most folks would not know about.” Balancing these multiple facets of the business requires immense dedication and time management skills.
Caitlin Campbell inside the Street Brew Coffee trailer, preparing coffee orders
Inspiring Future Coffee and Content Creators
Caitlin’s journey is undoubtedly an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs and content creators within the specialty coffee community and beyond. “There is no question that you are an inspiration to so many people in the specialty coffee/content creator communities. What encouragement/inspiration would you share to others who might want to pursue a future in these spaces?” I asked, seeking her advice for others.
“I would encourage others to be yourself, be confident in who you are, and always try to be better every day,” Caitlin advises. “Encourage and inspire others with your content and look for an opportunity to connect with your audience. Be honest and steadfast in your content so viewers can get to know you and trust you.” Authenticity, continuous self-improvement, and genuine connection are key pillars of her success.
The Future Brew: What’s Next for Street Brew Coffee?
Looking ahead, Street Brew Coffee remains committed to its core values and continuous growth. “So to wrap things up, what’s on the horizon for Street Brew Coffee? Any big plans for 2024 and beyond?” I asked, eager to hear about their future plans.
“We plan to be who we always have been and strive to be better every day,” Caitlin responded. Adding an exciting personal update, she shared, “I have just signed my first book deal, and this should be available late 2025 or early 2026.” This new venture marks another significant milestone in Caitlin’s already impressive career.
Contact Street Brew Coffee:
Web: www.streetbrew.ca
Instagram: @street.brew
TikTok: @cc.campbell
Facebook: facebook.com/KrashKulture
Email: [email protected]
Find their beans: Explore their selection of freshly roasted coffee beans on their web-store.
A heartfelt thank you to Caitlin and Papa Street Brew of Street Brew for their significant contribution to the coffee culture in Toronto and across Canada. Be sure to visit their site, grab some of their exceptional beans, and experience the Street Brew Coffee difference.
Stay Caffeinated,
Tyler
