898: Meet America's Tea Pioneer, Steve Lorch

On Growing Tea and Entrepreneurship

In This Podcast: Steve Lorch, founder and CEO of Table Rock Tea Company in Pickens, South Carolina, shares his journey from a surgical nurse and serial entrepreneur to becoming a leading expert in growing tea in the United States. Steve recounts how his experience with Hydro Missions International led to his fascination with tea during a water project in Kenya. He shares how he started growing tea and eventually founded Table Rock Tea Company. Steve discusses the rarity of US-grown tea, the differences between true tea and herbal infusions, and the consortium he started to support other tea growers. He also touches on the challenges, significant accomplishments, the importance of knowing one's business limits, and his efforts in creating 'Good Faith Grown,' an initiative for honesty in labeling. The episode highlights his entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to sustainable farming, and passion for tea.

Our Guest: Steve is the founder/CEO of Table Rock Tea Company in Pickens, South Carolina. He is a former surgical nurse of 33 years in the OR, a serial entrepreneur and multi-published author. Steve is considered a leading expert on growing tea in the United States and is frequently asked to present and consult on the topic. Having worked in multiple industries, Steve professionally coaches entrepreneurs and leaders of diverse backgrounds.

Steve's Books - The Bible and The Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Andrew Chevallier

Contact Steve - TableRockTea.com &  GoodFaithGrown.com

Visit UrbanFarm.org/TableRockTea for the show notes and links on this episode!

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