In this episode of Not So Small, host Sam Bauman sits down with Dillon Duong, founder of 16ozDays, to explore how weekly coffee shop visits transformed into a thriving community-focused brand. Over the past four and a half years, Dillon has visited more than 263 local coffee shops, documenting their stories and building meaningful relationships with owners and staff along the way.

Dillon shares the evolution of his business, particularly the development of the Coffee Compass, a buy-one-get-one-free stamp book connecting coffee lovers with local shops. He details the thoughtful process behind creating this product, emphasizing how feedback from coffee shop owners led to crucial improvements that aligned with his core values of supporting local businesses rather than exploiting them.

The conversation delves into Dillon's approach to team building, revealing how his talented teammates keep him motivated through entrepreneurial challenges.

Dillon also offers candid advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of showing up consistently regardless of circumstances, communicating efficiently, and being actively engaged with your business seven days a week. His story showcases how strong values and genuine interest in connecting with others can form the foundation for business success.

Guest Info

• Business: 16ozDays
• Guest: Dillon Duong (he/him)
• Links: Website • Instagram

Community Shoutout(s)

• FIELDWORK (Website • Instagram)
• The Upload Company (Website • Instagram)

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Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Sam Bauman (she/her)
• About the Host: Sam is the President of Mellowlark Labs, a Twin Cities-based small business consulting agency. She has a masters degree in counseling psychology, a field she worked in for several years before applying her skills in business, and is certified in Organization Development.

Podcast Website
Sound Editing By: Adam Rondeau
Podcast Art By: Andy Bauman (website)