In episode 62 of "Keep the Hotel Empty," we sit down with Justin Banister, the passionate owner and operator of O&A Coffee and Supply. Justin's love affair with coffee began in his childhood, sharing steaming cups with his grandfather. While his early concoctions were laden with milk and sugar, his grandfather's preference for "black and boiling" set a powerful precedent. Over the years, Justin's palate and knowledge have expanded exponentially, yet the ritualistic enjoyment of coffee remains unchanged. For Justin, these moments represent the times he feels "truly alive," a testament to the profound impact of a simple cup of coffee. Justin's varied background, which includes journalism and private piloting, has informed his entrepreneurial journey with O&A. He envisioned a mobile coffee bar that would evolve into something much greater—a vision now realized with two storefronts, one on Main Street in Sarasota and another in the growing community of Lakewood Ranch. Additionally, Justin has established a roastery, which offers unique opportunities to source exceptional coffee from skilled producers worldwide. Specializing in small-batch craft coffee, O&A's offerings are a far cry from your average diner brew, though Justin acknowledges there’s a place for that too—specifically, in a Waffle House. Join us as we delve into Justin's journey and the coffee culture he continues to cultivate.

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