Host: Cristan Engelke
Guest: Cassie McArdle
VIDEO
PRESENTING SPONSORS:
Unstoppable Media – www.unstoppablegmr.com
EPISODE SPONSOR:
Pure Focus Media – https://www.purefocus.media/
DESCRIPTION
Welcome to another episode of Southaven Business Beat, where we shine the spotlight on the heart of our community — local entrepreneurs and leaders who make Southaven thrive! This week, host Cristan sits down with the vibrant and passionate Cassie McArdle, general manager of Beans & Leaves, a charming coffeehouse nestled in the heart of Silo Square, with a second bustling location at Northwest DeSoto Campus.
In this feel-good, energizing episode, Cassie shares her family’s journey from coffee lovers to community builders. You’ll get the full scoop on how Beans & Leaves blossomed in 2021, inspired by a deep love for Southaven, a touch of “Friends” nostalgia, and a whole lot of heart from Cassie and her mom, the “coffee queen” Margarita.
From Footloose-themed drink collabs with DeSoto Family Theatre to hosting cozy chats next to a fireplace, Cassie shows how their coffee shop is more than just a stop for caffeine—it’s a community hub where everyone is welcomed like family.
You’ll also get a sneak peek at their new summer menu, featuring Mississippi-grown loose-leaf teas and the must-try Elvis Protein Smoothie. Spoiler: it’s packed with real bananas, protein peanut butter, and a little Southern flair.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a Southaven native, or just love good coffee and community vibes, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and inspiration.
CHAPTERS
- Welcome to Southaven Business Beat (00:00 – 01:26)
- Meet Cassie McArdle & Beans and Leaves (01:26 – 02:12)
- The Story Behind the Coffee Shop (02:12 – 03:17)
- Two Locations, Two Unique Vibes (03:17 – 04:51)
- What Makes Beans & Leaves Different (04:51 – 05:38)
- Seasonal Drinks & Pastry Magic (05:38 – 07:01)
- A Word from Our Sponsors (07:01 – 08:06)
- Collaborations & Community Impact (08:06 – 10:09)
- Local Loose-Leaf Teas & New Menu Launch (10:09 – 12:19)
- The Chamber’s Role in Their Success (12:19 – 14:32)
- Advice for Future Entrepreneurs (14:32 – 16:50)
- Challenges of Keeping Up with Growth (16:50 – 18:13)
- Creating a Customer-First Culture (18:13 – 19:14)
- Final Thoughts from Cassie (19:14 – 20:13)
- Closing & How to Visit Beans & Leaves (20:13 – 21:30)
HIGHLIGHTS YOU’LL LOVE
“It looks like a Friends episode in there” — Discover the unique, cozy vibe that customers can’t stop talking about.
Local tea, real relationships — Learn how Beans & Leaves partners with Mississippi tea growers and local small businesses to create something truly special.
Campus grandma energy — Margarita, Cassie’s mom, has built deep relationships with students at the Northwest campus location. She’s more than a barista — she’s a mentor and friend.
New summer menu is LIVE — Get first access to their latest offerings and hear why loyalty members always get the inside scoop.
Passion meets purpose — Hear Cassie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs: “Get to know your neighbors. Ask for help. Build community first.”
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Have you visited Beans & Leaves at Silo Square or Northwest DeSoto Campus?
Do you know of a small business in Southaven that we should feature next?
Follow Beans & Leaves
Silo Square Location: May Blvd, Southaven, MS
NWCC DeSoto Campus Location
SPONSOR LIST
https://www.wisdomintegrators.com – Wisdom Integrators
https://thefollowapp.co/ – The Follow App
https://www.purefocus.media/ – Pure Focus Media
https://www.southavenchamber.com/ – Southaven Chamber of Commerce
YOUTUBE URL
