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 Kristen 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
00:00 – Welcome to Southaven Business Beat
01:26 – Meet Cassie McArdle & Beans and Leaves
02:12 – The Story Behind the Coffee Shop
03:17 – Two Locations, Two Unique Vibes
04:51 – What Makes Beans & Leaves Different
05:38 – Seasonal Drinks & Pastry Magic
07:01 – A Word from Our Sponsors
08:06 – Collaborations & Community Impact
10:09 – Local Loose-Leaf Teas & New Menu Launch
12:19 – The Chamber’s Role in Their Success
14:32 – Advice for Future Entrepreneurs
16:50 – Challenges of Keeping Up with Growth
18:13 – Creating a Customer-First Culture
19:14 – Final Thoughts from Cassie
20:13 – Closing & How to Visit Beans & Leaves
🎙️ 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? Tell us your favorite drink or memory in the comments! 👇
Do you know of a small business in Southaven that we should feature next? Drop their name or tag them!
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🔗 Follow Beans & Leaves
📍 Silo Square Location: May Blvd, Southaven, MS
📍 NWCC DeSoto Campus Location
