On the Blue Ridge
On the Blue Ridge features conversations with people shaping the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hosted by Asheville-based journalist Jon Page, the show explores the ideas, creativity, and vision driving Western North Carolina forward.
Through long-form interviews and on-location storytelling, each episode captures the evolving story of these mountains. The conversations focus on people doing meaningful and inspiring work across the region, from conservation and outdoor recreation to the arts, agriculture, food and beverage, entrepreneurship, and beyond.
On the Blue Ridge
Jessie Dean on Rebuilding Asheville Tea Company After Helene
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Jessie Dean is the founder and CEO of Asheville Tea Company, whose building was swept away by Hurricane Helene’s devastating floodwaters. Despite the unimaginable challenge, Jessie is committed to rebuilding with the support of her community.
Jessie grew up in Valle Crucis, North Carolina, just outside of Boone, and later moved to Asheville, where she opened Asheville Tea Company in September of 2016. Partnering with local farmers, Asheville Tea Company’s products celebrate the rich, vibrant flavors of Southern Appalachia.
In this episode, Jessie shares her passion for tea and running a mission-driven business; how she and her team weathered the storm during what should have been their busiest season; her gratitude for the outpouring of community support; the future of Asheville Tea Company; and much more.
Asheville Tea Company
Homepage
Shop Teas
Initiatives Mentioned
WNC Strong
The Always Asheville Fund
Optimist Ventures
Together We Recover
Also Mentioned
Video of Asheville Tea Company's building floating down the Swannanoa River
Asheville Detours
Theme Music
The song "Goa" was written by Lyndsay Pruett and performed by the Jon Stickley Trio.