In an episode of the Within Range Coaching Podcast, Ranger sat down with Trey Hall, a self-described serial entrepreneur, philanthropist, and wildlife conservationist. Trey shared his inspiring journey of creating Cold Blooded Caffeine, a coffee brand that merges his passion for reptiles, conservation, and entrepreneurship. Their conversation was packed with valuable insights into balancing entrepreneurial pursuits, personal relationships, and the importance of community building.
The Journey of Cold Blooded Caffeine
Trey Hall didn’t always envision himself as an entrepreneur. Coming from a family rooted in traditional career paths, he initially followed the conventional route of earning a degree and entering the corporate world. However, after 12 years in the automotive manufacturing industry, he felt a void. The daily grind lacked a sense of ownership and fulfillment, pushing him to explore new ventures.
Trey’s entrepreneurial spirit flourished during after-work brainstorming sessions with his now-business partner, McKendrick. They began exploring various business ideas, ranging from dropshipping to private labeling. Eventually, their shared love for coffee and reptiles led them to Cold Blooded Caffeine—a brand uniquely positioned to highlight the connection between sustainable coffee farming and wildlife conservation.
Building a Mission-Driven Brand
Cold Blooded Caffeine’s foundation lies in Trey’s passion for reptiles and conservation. After discovering research linking specialty coffee farming to increased biodiversity, Trey realized he could combine his interests to create a brand with purpose. The idea was simple yet impactful: produce high-quality coffee while supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
This mission resonated deeply with Trey, who grew up surrounded by wildlife and later recognized the detrimental impacts of unsustainable consumption. Today, Cold Blooded Caffeine not only provides exceptional coffee but also raises awareness about the importance of conservation.
The Importance of Communication and Partnerships
A recurring theme throughout Trey’s story is the value of clear communication in both personal and professional relationships. In his marriage, Trey emphasizes the importance of open and honest conversations about goals, dreams, and sacrifices. This strong foundation allowed him to pursue his entrepreneurial aspirations with the support of his wife.
Similarly, Trey’s business partnership with McKendrick thrives on complementary skills and mutual respect. While Trey focuses on vision and growth, McKendrick excels in operations and efficiency. This dynamic allows them to balance ambition with practicality, ensuring the business moves forward sustainably.
Knowing Your Strengths and Weaknesses
One of the most insightful takeaways from Trey’s journey is the importance of self-awareness. He attributes much of his success to recognizing his strengths—such as vision and sales—and acknowledging his weaknesses, like social media and content creation. Instead of trying to excel in every area, Trey surrounds himself with experts who fill those gaps, allowing him to focus on what he does best.
This approach extends beyond skills to personality traits. Trey describes himself as more risk-assessed than risk-seeking, a mindset that guides his decision-making. By thoroughly analyzing data and potential outcomes, he minimizes blind risks and maximizes calculated opportunities.
Staying Present and Grounded
Despite the demands of entrepreneurship, Trey prioritizes being present in his personal life. He uses strategies like setting daily goals, celebrating small wins, and creating transitions between work and home life. For example, during his 30-minute commute home, he avoids business podcasts and instead listens to novels to shift his mindset.
This intentionality extends to family time, where Trey ensures he’s fully engaged with his wife and son. By setting boundaries and practicing mindfulness, he maintains a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Trey Hall’s journey offers valuable lessons for anyone considering or currently navigating entrepreneurship:
- Start with Purpose: Align your business with your passions and values to create something meaningful.
- Communicate Clearly: Open, honest conversations are essential for successful partnerships—whether personal or professional.
- Know Yourself: Recognize your strengths, weaknesses, and personality traits, and surround yourself with people who complement your skills.
- Take Calculated Risks: Analyze data and measure outcomes before diving into new opportunities.
- Be Present: Set boundaries and create habits that allow you to fully engage in each area of your life.
The Road Ahead for Cold Blooded Caffeine
As Cold Blooded Caffeine continues to grow, Trey remains committed to its mission of blending exceptional coffee with impactful conservation efforts. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, support system, and sense of purpose, entrepreneurs can build businesses that not only succeed but also make a difference.
For more insights and inspiring stories, check out the full episode of the Within Range Coaching Podcast (now The Never Peak Project).