From Real Estate to Roastery: Missy Greis on Building Publik into a Utah Staple

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What does it take to build a beloved, multi-location coffee brand in one of the toughest industries around?

Missy Greis, founder of Publik Coffee, joins Chase Murdock to share the remarkable story behind one of Utah’s most iconic local brands.

From buying a dilapidated building in Salt Lake’s Central Ninth district to launching four thriving businesses (coffee roastery, cafe, restaurant, and event space), Missy walks us through how Publik came to life—and why it has stayed deeply rooted in community, hospitality, and craft.

In this candid conversation, Missy talks about:

  • The unlikely origins of Publik and why it began with real estate, not coffee

  • Building a business that feels intimate, even as it scales to 70+ employees

  • Why she’s never made a latte, and why that’s the point

  • Navigating the chaos of COVID, earthquakes, and inflation—and coming out stronger

  • Her philosophy on leadership, delegation, and staying passionate after a decade in the game

Whether you're a coffee lover, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone figuring out how to grow without losing your soul, this episode is packed with hard-won lessons, real talk, and inspiration from someone who’s done it.

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