Rachel Rappa, Coastal Craft Kombucha, Oceanside, NY
Q: When did you first discover kombucha?
A: I first discovered kombucha in my search for anything that would help my digestive system as I was wreaking havoc on it. I have always looked to food as medicine over traditional medicine.
Q: Why did you start your own kombucha company?
A: When I first came across kombucha like many I didn’t actually enjoy it but I appreciated how it made me feel. At the time I had recently developed one fundamental belief which is that living a healthy life and eating healthy food shouldn’t be anything short of enjoyable. With that in mind I started Coastal Craft as a homegrown operation that was built on a foundation of passion and respect for all things creative. Drawing inspiration from the culinary world around me, I grew a deep appreciation for innovative flavor combinations derived from the freshest wholesome ingredients. The more I consumed, the more my curiosity evolved. When it came to kombucha I felt compelled to take something seemingly ordinary and make it extraordinary, and we continue to share those same values to this day as our core mission.
Q: What is your favorite flavor of kombucha?
A: Gt’s Classic Divine Grape
Q: What is your former/current other life or career?
A: I was previously a baker and bartender. Never in my life have I had a 9-5, I always followed my passions and let my creativity and curiosity guide my career path.
Q: What is a saying that you live by?