In this heartfelt tribute episode of La Taza Habla, host Don Cox honors the life and legacy of Bill Kennedy, CEO and founder of San Franciscan Roaster Company, who unexpectedly passed away in December 2024. Over two decades of friendship, Bill transformed specialty coffee through American-made coffee roasting equipment, education programs, and unwavering mentorship.

This deeply personal episode recounts their first conversation in the early 2000s when Bill refurbished Don's 25-pound roaster—his very first customer—sparking a partnership that would impact coffee professionals worldwide. From his background as an educator and principal to becoming a coffee industry pioneer, Bill embodied servant leadership, faith-driven values, and commitment to excellence in coffee roasting. The episode explores Bill's role in creating coffee roasting curriculum, launching the Coffee Roasting Legends podcast, establishing Telegraph Coffee & Tap in Fallon, Nevada, and supporting countless entrepreneurs through equipment sales and personal mentorship.

Bill's legacy lives on through his family, six grown children, and the thousands of roasters whose lives he touched. A moving remembrance for anyone in specialty coffee, entrepreneurship, or small business ownership seeking inspiration from a true industry gentle giant.

I'll add more links as they become available

1. Daily Coffee News Official Obituary (Must-read industry tribute) https://dailycoffeenews.com/2025/12/11/bill-kennedy-san-franciscan-roaster-owner-and-educator-dies/