Part 4 - Life of a Javapreneur: Leaving a Legacy of Good
Posted on January 23 2026,
In this concluding episode of our four-part series with The Real Boone Podcast, Don reflects on his personal legacy, moving from a past of "rage and dysfunction" to finding a "wired different" life through faith and community service. We dive into his vision for the High Country, lamenting the loss of the unified "Old Boone" spirit while celebrating the "Mountain Strong" resilience that emerges in times of crisis.
As a veteran Java-preneur, Don shares the mission of his podcast, La Taza Habla, where he uses a non-conventional approach to storytelling to explore everything from global dynamics to the intricacies of the olfactory system. Whether he’s at the "bougie" Blowing Rock store or sitting by the wood stove in Boone, Don’s goal remains the same: connecting people through coffee, Jesus, and shared stories. Join us for this "unhinged" take on why what is in your cup truly matters.
5 Takeaways
- Legacy is Service: A meaningful legacy is built on being a "friend of sinners" and a faithful servant to one's community.
- Resilience is Internal: Being "built for the climb" means using past struggles—addiction, anger, or dysfunction—as raw material for a transformed life.
- Community Over Agenda: True community strength ("Mountain Strong") is found when individuals lay down their political or social agendas to help their neighbors.
- The Art of the Olfactory: Understanding coffee goes beyond the bean; it involves developing your palate and olfactory system to appreciate global dynamics.
- Storytelling Connects Us: Sharing personal stories of how "coffee, Jesus, and community" intersect can change lives and foster deep connections.