In this episode of What It Takes, Jamie sits down with Nishchal Banskota, the founder of Nepal Tea Collective, a mission-driven company reshaping the global tea trade. Nishchal shares his journey as a second-generation tea producer, how his family's legacy inspired his mission, and his drive to connect Nepalese tea farmers directly with consumers. We explore the challenges of creating a transparent tea supply chain, the importance of sustainability, and lessons Nishchal learned as a young entrepreneur. From being featured in The New York Times and Forbes to advocating for the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, Nishchal offers practical insights for aspiring business owners.

Episode Notes

Guest Highlights:

• Name: Nishchal (Nish) Banskota
• Title: Founder, Nepal Tea Collective
• Website: nepalteacollective.com
• Instagram: @nepalteacollective
• LinkedIn: Nishchal Banskota

Key Topics Covered:

1. Origins of Nepal Tea Collective: Nishchal’s background as a second-generation tea producer and how family inspired his mission.
2. Bridging the Gap: Tackling the disconnect between primary producers and global consumers.
3. Challenges: Overcoming barriers to creating a transparent, tech-enabled tea trade.
4. Sustainability Focus: Aligning Nepal Tea Collective’s practices with UN Sustainable Development Goals.
5. Entrepreneurial Lessons: The importance of persistence, passion, and surrounding yourself with the right team.
6. Global Impact: Reflections on being featured in The New York Times and Forbes.
7. Practical Advice: Key tips for starting a mission-driven business.

Memorable Quotes:

• "Tea is more than just a drink; it’s a way to connect people and cultures."
• "Transparency isn’t just a business value; it’s a necessity in today’s world."
• "If you want to make a global impact, start with your local roots."

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

• The importance of aligning your business with a meaningful mission.
• How sustainability can be a core differentiator in building a brand.
• The value of storytelling in connecting with consumers.
• Why resilience and adaptability are critical in entrepreneurship.

Call to Action:

• Visit Nepal Tea Collective’s website to learn more about their teas and mission.
• Follow their journey on Instagram and LinkedIn for updates and stories.
• Share this episode with someone who values sustainability and entrepreneurship.