Eric J. Grimm

Something special to say about a special person - big announcement! For the last 7 years, my amazing colleague and friend, Eric Grimm, has been beside me, offering me wisdom, understanding, insight, and lots of laughter. It really has been a privilege to have him in my life, both personally and professionally. It happens to be his birthday today 🥳 but also, we have a big announcement! I’m going to brag about him first: Eric has worked in cafes for over 18 years and his career journey has led him into the love of HR, specializing in communications training and legal compliance. He is an excellent writer and public speaker - you may have read his work in publications like @freshcupmag or seen him MC’ing major industry events like the World Latte Art Championship, the World @aero.press Championship, and my wedding 😆. You may have also experienced his work if you’ve ever taken @lailaghambari ’s De-Escalation Class. Eric and I worked closely together when he was running Glitter Cat Barista, a nonprofit supporting baristas of marginalized identities. He has volunteered for countless industry events and programs over the years, touching so many lives in a positive way. Another niche realm of experience he has is in mobile espresso catering and event coordination. He ran a large-scale coffee catering program in New York City and has helped coordinate and run many mobile events since. All that to say - it’s easy to see why I have recruited him to be on my team as an Associate Consultant starting June 1st - I officially have a team!!!! And I am so excited and confident that together we will be able to provide so much more help and resources to cafe business owners and workers. Cheers to this next chapter. Dreams can come true! Eric - I love you endlessly and thank you for everything, but especially now, for trusting me with this next season. Can’t wait to do excellent work with you.

38. 98 in gay years. Supposedly 28 in biological years. Feeling deeply appreciated, loved, and timeless. Just keeps getting better. Thank you for sharing this timeline with me. 💜

Willing crow’s feet as evidence of a life well lived. 📸 @escalante_erica

On this blesséd and sacréd St. Valentine’s Day, I’m thinking about what I’ve learned from a lifetime of relationships both ecstatic and heartbreaking. I’m happy to be at peace with how I show up romantically and to myself: solo polyamorous and celebrating the full spectrum of nontraditional relationships. One of the times I felt most seen in my individuality as a person and partner was this classic interview with @thesherylleeralph . 💜

Not even close to the year I expected or thought I needed but I managed to find joy and self actualization like never before. I embraced the rare moments where loneliness and uncertainty bedeviled me. I loved myself more than I ever have and experienced reciprocal love, passion, and peace with the best people in the world. My capacity grew and I recognized it can grow so much more while I’m in this world breathing, loving, and cackling as @anneka.visuals captured me here. Love, contentedness, solitude, community, and ecstasy to all of you.

Yesterday, I got to officiate my best friends’ wedding. @escalante_erica and @triciaa_lu were my saviors this year, seeing me through months of change and self actualization. They have been my patient and adoring safe haven for so long. It felt only natural to bring them together in commitment and encourage everyone present to commit to them as we move forward and dream very big. I’m so proud these gay ass ladies are my family and I know that the tears and laughter from this weekend could power a city. And yes, there was obviously a scripted selfie break in my speech. 💜

To make a living and a career where service, education, and community are at the forefront is as good as it gets. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to teach Human Resources for Coffee this weekend at @raisethebar_coffee . Beyond my inclusion among an all star group of coffee pros, the best part of this weekend was seeing the eagerness of the next generation. These folks came in ready to absorb and think critically and I easily could’ve carried on my discussion with them for another hour or two. That was the spirit the whole weekend. Their enthusiasm could cool even the most burnt out veteran of this industry. I am indebted to @eversys.usa for sending me (especially @alexandraclitttlejohn for championing this event as a board member, sponsor, and advocate for community events) and am in total awe of @millcityroasters for their supreme hospitality as hosts. Biggest ups to @racheljapple , @cafe.con.sandra , and @sweet.perterter for bringing this vision to life. I know what it is to run the logistics of these types of events. Creating a functioning and dynamic environment of value for 75 students and over 30 instructors and volunteers is a serious undertaking, particularly when this is a first year event. They nailed it. My heart is full and I can’t wait to do this all over again and build more community with those who choose to work and grow with us. The children really are the future! 📸 @escalante_erica

Lost in Jiufen. See you never. 💋

Angel. Demon. Ex-Husband. 📸 @racheljapple