Mushroom coffee shop is a hip hangout in Cambria County
Owner Kaley Kozian says that Bohemian Bean is a winning combination of atmosphere and a great product.
Bohemian Bean owner Kaley Kozian doesn’t even like coffee, but she likes a good atmosphere.
“I love a bar-type atmosphere—you get your regulars, and you build relationships; they become your family,” she said. “There were already plenty of bars in the area, but Ebensburg didn’t have a coffee shop, and it just clicked.”
Mushroom coffee is Kozian’s niche. “It’s what we do differently… and people love it! I built the business around my values, and it has been a perfect blend of atmosphere and quality products,” she said.
Kozian said her Startup Alleghenies business coach Blake Fleegle has played an instrumental role in the success of her business. “I cannot believe the support and resources he offers at no cost. He is always available to help and has played a huge part in what we have done so far,” she said.
If you want to start a business, just go for it. When you see people loving what you offer and the difference you are making in their lives, it is worth it.
“The mushroom coffee really is great, but that’s not what makes Bohemian Bean so special. It’s Kaley – she is a truly great person.” Fleegle said. “People always think you have to be a ‘shark’ to be successful in business, sometimes just being a good human can work too.”
Two key ingredients have really taken her business to the next level. The first is her love for people. “I love learning their stories. I have sat on our couches, cried with them and held their hands… the connection with people was born out of this safe space we have created. Inviting them in and welcoming them to open up their lives and share it with us,” she said.
Bohemian Bean’s unique mushroom blend is a hit for Ebensburg coffee drinkers.
The second is the other small businesses in the community. “I am the baby bird taken under everyone else’s wings. The other small businesses in this community have been so helpful and so supportive,” Kozian shared. “I didn’t expect it, but I am grateful to each of them.”
The connection with people was born out of this safe space we have created. I love learning their stories.
These connections have presented opportunities to collaborate with other entrepreneurs. “We are offering grab-and-go meals from the Imperial Room and will start offering their soups in the coming weeks,” she said. “We also have this really cool creative side of the building that is a rental space that can be used for parties and gatherings. We have had makers come in and host classes and parties ranging from yoga, paint parties, cookie decorating and more.”
Kozian offers this advice to other entrepreneurs: “Just go for it, man. If you want to start a business, take a gamble and go for it. When you see people loving what you offer and the difference you are making in their lives, it is worth it… and go see Blake!” she laughed.
Startup Alleghenies helps startup and emerging small businesses succeed by providing free coaching to entrepreneurs in Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon and Somerset counties. To access personal, one-on-one support from a coach in your county, including guidance, resources, tools and networking opportunities, sign up at startupalleghenies.com.
