What does it take to build a thriving business, compete as a dedicated athlete, and still find time to give back to your community? For Garrik Muller, it’s not about balancing three separate lives, but weaving them into one integrated mission. He isn’t just a business owner who runs on the weekends; he’s a testament to how passion, when properly channeled, can create a life of profound impact.
If you’ve spent any time in Asheville’s local scene, you’ve likely felt the ripple effect of his work. Let’s pull back the curtain on the mindset that makes it all possible.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building More Than a Business
From a simple idea to a local staple, Garrik’s journey began when he noticed a gap in Asheville’s market for high-quality, locally-roasted coffee that also championed sustainable practices.
He didn’t just see a business opportunity; he saw a chance to build a community hub. The result was “Mountain Bean Roastery,” a venture that started in his garage and has since become a beloved downtown anchor. But for Garrik, the balance sheet was only one measure of success.
“The real metric,” he says, “is the vibe in the shop. It’s the sound of conversations between friends, the sight of a freelancer landing a new client at our tables, and the knowledge that every bag of beans supports a farming cooperative in Honduras.”
His entrepreneurial journey is a story of deliberate, community-focused growth:
| Year | Milestone & Impact |
|---|---|
| 2019 | Launched first blend; secured a local small business grant. |
| 2021 | Expanded to a physical storefront, creating 5 new local jobs. |
| 2023 | Partnered with “Homes for Honduras,” directing 5% of all online sales to the cooperative. |
The Athlete’s Discipline: Fueling the Drive
The same focus required to cross a finish line directly fuels his boardroom strategy. You might find it surprising that a busy CEO makes time for predawn training sessions, but for Garrik, it’s non-negotiable. As an endurance athlete regularly competing in local triathlons and the Asheville Marathon, he’s learned to translate athletic discipline into entrepreneurial resilience.
Think of his training regimen as his daily system reboot. The discipline of sticking to a plan, the mental fortitude to push through “the wall,” and the focus on a long-term goal—these aren’t just athletic traits; they’re entrepreneurial superpowers.
He dispels a common myth with a smile: “People think I’m sacrificing sleep to fit it all in. The opposite is true. The clarity I get on a long run solves more problems than an extra hour at my desk ever could. It’s where the noise fades and the best ideas surface.”
The Philanthropic Heart: Weaving a Legacy
For Garrik, success is a tool for community upliftment. This belief moves beyond a line in a mission statement; it’s the fabric of his operations. His philanthropic efforts are a blend of financial support and deep, hands-on involvement.
For instance, last winter, Mountain Bean Roastery fully sponsored “Project Warmth,” an initiative that provided winter coats and essential supplies to over 200 families in Asheville’s downtown core. But Garrik didn’t just write a check. He and his team were there, packing and distributing the kits, turning a corporate donation into a personal connection.
Furthermore, he mentors young entrepreneurs at the Asheville Youth Business Hub, offering guidance on everything from sourcing materials to building a brand story. “It’s about creating a ladder behind me,” he explains. “My success is only meaningful if it helps others find their own.”
Your Next Steps: Weaving Passion and Purpose
Garrik Muller’s story is powerful not because he’s superhuman, but because his approach is deeply human and replicable. His life challenges the notion that we must compartmentalize our passions. So, how can you draw inspiration from his model?
- Audit Your Energies: What one activity, like Garrik’s running, fuels you the most? Is it painting, hiking, or reading? Protect that time fiercely and schedule it this week.
- Think Local: How can your unique skills solve a small, tangible problem in your own community? It doesn’t need to be a grand gesture—start with a single conversation.
- Integrate, Don’t Segregate: Look for one way to connect a personal passion to your professional goals. Maybe your love for graphic design can spruce up your team’s next presentation.
Garrik Muller’s story shows that an impactful life isn’t about choosing one path, but about building your own trail.
What’s the first step you’ll take on yours?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Garrik Muller best known for?
A: While he wears many hats, Garrik is best known in the Asheville community for founding Mountain Bean Roastery and his dedicated involvement in youth entrepreneurship mentorship programs.
Q: How does Garrik Muller balance his different roles?
A: Garrik often speaks about “integration” over “balance.” He looks for synergies, like using his athletic discipline to power through a challenging work week or directing business resources to support local charitable events.
Q: What business does Garrik Muller own?
A: Garrik is the founder and owner of Mountain Bean Roastery, a local coffee roastery and café based in downtown Asheville, known for its direct-trade, sustainable practices.
Q: Is Garrik Muller involved in any local charities?
A: Yes, he is actively involved with several local initiatives, including the Asheville Youth Business Hub and seasonal drives like “Project Warmth.” His involvement ranges from financial support to hands-on volunteering and mentorship.
Q: What kind of athlete is Garrik Muller?
A: Garrik is an endurance enthusiast, regularly competing in local marathons and triathlons. He often says the mental fortitude developed during training is a key component of his entrepreneurial resilience.
