On this episode of Leadership LevelUp, Jeff Williamson sits down with Caleb Benoit, the innovative founder and owner of Connect Roasters. Benoit, an entrepreneur deeply rooted in his hometown of Bourbonnais, Illinois, discusses how his passion for quality coffee and community spurred the creation of his business.

Caleb will make an appearance at the upcoming Converge Conference on October 11th. He will join Jeff and fellow entrepreneurs on our Renewal Panel. Our panelists are entrepreneurs, investors, leaders and business owners who are investing their energies enhancing places and spaces. Hear how each one envisions the continued renewal across our community.

Caleb’s story begins eight years ago when he founded Connect Roasters without even owning a roaster. Initially outsourcing production, his relentless drive and commitment to his community saw the business flourish, ultimately leading to the opening of their first brick-and-mortar cafe last year. Caleb shares his gratitude for the relationships that have been foundational to Connect Roasters’ success, and his dedication to revitalizing his local community.

Discover how Connect Roasters has become more than just a coffee shop; it’s a community hub. Caleb speaks to the importance of providing a welcoming space for people to gather, connect, and enjoy exceptional coffee. He underscores the role of community in everything they do, from providing a warm environment to supporting local events and organizations.

You’ll learn about the company’s thoughtful approach to sourcing coffee, emphasizing relationships with producers in places like Guatemala. Caleb’s stories of travel and connection to coffee farmers illuminate the value of transparency and sustainability in business.

In addition, Caleb provides a sneak peek into his upcoming participation in the Converge Conference, where he’ll be part of a panel discussing renewal and revitalization. His insights on bringing new life to his community through his business will undoubtedly inspire all who tune in.

Tune in to gain valuable leadership wisdom and to understand how visionary entrepreneurship can reshape and uplift a community. Discover how Connect Roasters is brewing more than just coffee—they’re brewing a sense of belonging and revitalization in Bourbonnais.

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Meet The Guest

Caleb Benoit

Caleb Benoit is the founder and CEO of Connect Roasters, a mission-driven coffee company that operates a coffee roastery and brick-and-mortar cafe.

Connect’s mission and giveback model have funded tens of thousands of meals for people in need, both domestically and internationally, and its business partnerships include companies like Goose Island Beer Co. and the Chicago Cubs. Before founding Connect, Caleb worked in software and journalism, and he’s worked internationally in both Europe and Canada. He, his wife and their two children live in Kankakee, Ill.

About the Leadership LevelUp Podcast

Being a boss and a leader are very different. A boss tells you what to do and a leader partners with you in the process. Jeff, being a leader of leaders, has a vast knowledge of best practices and exercises to discover leadership traits. Brian shares stories with Jeff about the ups and downs of his leadership quest while talking to business and community leaders to discuss their personal leadership journey. Who influenced them? What do they do when they have a bad day? What gives them inspiration? Do french fries or tacos or ice cream make them feel better after a bad day? Through laughter and casual conversation, Brian and Jeff explore all aspects of good leadership.

Meet The Host

Dr. Jeff Williamson

Dr. Jeff Williamson is the Founder of Converge Group Inc. an executive coaching and people development practice. Prior to launching his business in 2017, he was a Dean, Executive Director, and Professor of Organizational Leadership serving in higher education for over 30 years.

He holds a bachelor’s, and master’s degree in Speech Communication, and a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and was a post-doctoral student at The Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business. He is the host of “Leadership LevelUp” podcast and is also a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach.

He regularly teaches and speaks to business and industry on topics such as: Personal Leadership, Leadership Paradigms, Leading Change, Discover Your Strengths, Building a Strengths-Based Organization, Coaching, Mentoring & Conflict Resolution.

Show Sponsor

Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients. There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate. Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.