NūStory Coffee, a recent addition to Missouri's vibrant coffee scene, has distinguished itself by focusing on the rich and diverse coffee profiles emanating from Guatemala. This enterprise is not merely a business venture; it represents a heartfelt connection to the coffee-producing nation, nurtured through the personal journey of its founders, Graham and Susy Goshinmon. Their vision extends beyond commercial success, aiming to elevate the narrative of Guatemalan coffee and spotlight the dedication of its smaller, yet exceptional, growers on an international stage.
NūStory Coffee: From Guatemalan Fields to Missouri's Heartland
In the burgeoning coffee landscape of Nixa, Missouri, just south of Springfield, NūStory Coffee has emerged as a beacon for high-quality Guatemalan beans. Launched by the dynamic duo, Graham and Susy Goshinmon, this innovative coffee roasting company embodies a profound personal connection to Central American coffee. Susy's family history is deeply entwined with over a century of Guatemalan coffee production, providing an authentic foundation for their venture.
Graham, serving as NūStory's green coffee buyer and lead roaster, meticulously oversees a striking turquoise Diedrich IR-5 machine within their expansive 1,200-square-foot facility. Their initial coffee selections, including exquisite Guatemalan varieties, were carefully procured through esteemed channels like Covoya and Kansas City's Kapeh Utz. A significant milestone for NūStory is the anticipated arrival of directly sourced green coffee from Guatemalan producers this month, notably a unique Java variety from Mario Rene Friely Paredes' Finca La Canoa.
Graham's journey into the world of coffee cultivation and roasting began unexpectedly in 2020. During Guatemala's COVID-19 lockdowns, he stepped in to manage a coffee farm owned by Susy's uncle, gaining invaluable, hands-on experience. This immersive period, described by Graham as being 'thrown in the deep end,' taught him everything from plant care to harvest techniques, effectively making him a seasoned producer. His dedication led him to seek wisdom from fellow Guatemalan coffee artisans, including luminaries like Raul Rodas from Paradigma Coffee and the celebrated Teco Echeverria, whose guidance proved instrumental in his roasting endeavors.
The decision to establish NūStory in Nixa was a thoughtful one, influenced by familial proximity, Graham's fond memories of the area from his college days, and the region's promising economic growth potential. Beyond personal convenience, the Goshinmons were driven by a desire to contribute positively to a smaller community, offering employment opportunities and a more tranquil lifestyle compared to the bustling pace of Guatemala City.
Susy currently spearheads NūStory's direct-to-consumer sales, primarily engaging with customers at vibrant farmers' markets across the Springfield area. The company is actively transitioning its product packaging from simple kraft bags to distinctive custom-printed designs. Looking ahead, NūStory aims to broaden its market reach by expanding into grocery sales and wholesale partnerships, alongside their growing online presence. Future plans also include investing in higher-capacity roasting equipment, a strategic move to facilitate greater volumes of directly traded green coffees into the United States.
Ultimately, NūStory Coffee's overarching ambition is to serve as a crucial conduit for other roasters, offering unparalleled access to diverse and unique Guatemalan coffee options. Graham passionately articulates their core mission: to illuminate the remarkable efforts of smaller, often overlooked, coffee producers in Guatemala and showcase the extraordinary quality they bring to the world.
The emergence of NūStory Coffee in Missouri is more than just the launch of a new business; it's a testament to the power of personal connection, dedication, and a commitment to quality. As a reader, I find immense inspiration in how Graham and Susy Goshinmon have seamlessly interwoven their personal histories with a professional endeavor, creating a unique narrative that enriches the global coffee tapestry. Their direct engagement with Guatemalan producers, combined with a desire to shine a light on smaller, high-quality farms, offers a refreshing model for ethical sourcing and celebrates the often-unsung heroes of the coffee world. This venture not only brings exceptional coffee to American consumers but also builds bridges of understanding and appreciation for the intricate journey of coffee from seed to cup. It’s a compelling reminder that behind every great cup of coffee lies a story of passion, heritage, and unwavering commitment.