In this episode of the Better Together Arizona podcast, ONE Community President and Co-Founder, Angela Hughey is joined by CEO of Brick Road Coffee, Gabe Hagen, and VP of Business Development at Local First Arizona, Thomas Barr. 

Thomas is a passionate advocate for independent businesses, and Gabe created Brick Road Coffee as a pillar of belonging and inclusivity. Together, they offer insight into the challenges facing local economies amid a tumultuous political climate. 

This thought-provoking and caffeinated conversation emphasizes the vital role of local businesses as a “third space” – a location outside of home or work where people can feel safe and included, find community, and have courageous discussions. 

Gabe breaks down how recent tariffs are directly impacting the cost of coffee and reveals the hidden fees that businesses like his are facing. Get the hard math behind coffee production and the ripple effect that global tariffs have on labor hours, pricing, and the ability to operate.