Today we’d like to introduce you to Andres Fragoso Jr
Hi Andres, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I created Spectrum Brews, an online coffee company because I want to create a passionate and inclusive online coffee shop that embraces diversity, celebrates individuality, and raises awareness for the Spectrum community. My vision is to build a place where every cup tells a story—a story of acceptance, unity, and love. From the moment you come online, you’re welcomed into a warm and inviting space where everyone is celebrated for exactly who they are.
Our coffees, recipes, and commitment aren’t just about coffee; they reflect the vibrant tapestry of identities within the Spectrum community. Each blend is carefully crafted to honor and acknowledge the unique experiences and journeys of individuals across the spectrum.
But most importantly, Spectrum Brews is a beacon of hope—a reminder that no matter where you are on your journey, you are valued, you are loved, and you are never alone. I want people to come in, order their favorite blend, and join us as we raise our mugs to a world where everyone is free to be their authentic selves.
Welcome to Spectrum Brews—where every sip is a step towards a more inclusive and compassionate future. Each bag of coffee holds a story, a flavor journey that reflects the richness and diversity of the spectrum. Here’s to raising awareness, celebrating identity, and savoring the delicious puzzle of life!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It is a bit of a struggle, and it has not been easy coming up with the proper terms to call each coffee. I want to include every aspect of the Spectrum community, but there is a large diversity that I hope I do my best to include everyone. From allies to non-binary persons to the drag community and two-spirited individuals, I work hard to ensure each blend honors and acknowledges the unique experiences within our community.
Every day, I face the challenge of choosing names and descriptions that resonate with all members of the Spectrum community. I know how important it is to represent everyone accurately and respectfully. It takes a lot of thought, care, and feedback to make sure that each coffee blend not only tastes amazing but also reflects the rich diversity of the people it represents.
Despite the challenges, I am committed to this mission. I believe in creating a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and celebrated. Spectrum Brews is more than just an online coffee shop; it is a community, and I strive to make sure that no one is left out. I hope that with each cup, we bring people closer together and create a more inclusive and understanding world.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Spectrum Historian for the ongoing website The Spectrum’s Voice, www.thespectrumsvoice.com. Here, I take on the challenge of researching the history and the rich tapestry of the Spectrum community through history, culture, religion, and more. I want to show that there has been diversity in the Spectrum community since the Stone Age, evident in art, culture, and religion. This is nothing new; we need to learn from our history to accept ourselves and others.
I am very proud of the work that I started, even though it hasn’t been easy. However, I think it’s worth knowing the past to make a better future. To educate myself and others, I learn and teach the LARK Code, which stands for Love yourself, Accept yourself, Respect yourself, and Know yourself. This is also the title of a book I wrote to help people live a better life.
What sets me apart from others, I guess, is that I’m doing something about it. I used to complain a lot about the ways of the world and did nothing about it. That was me being part of the problem. Now, I’m actively working to create a difference and to make life easier for myself and others.
By researching and sharing the history of the Spectrum community, I hope to build a deeper understanding and acceptance. I believe that by knowing where we come from, we can better appreciate who we are and strive towards a more inclusive and compassionate future.
What does success mean to you?
Success. That’s a strong word. I define my personal success with Spectrum Brews by seeing people buy the coffee beans and learn about the LARK Code. It means that we, as people, love ourselves and others. It shows that we are a strong Spectrum Community with allies who stand behind us all the way.
For me, it’s not about the money; it’s about loving, accepting, respecting, and knowing ourselves and others. Success is living in a world where diversity is accepted and not rejected. Without diversity, this world would be a boring place.
I see success in the smiles of our customers, in their stories, and in the connections they make through Spectrum Brews. I see it when someone discovers a blend that resonates with their identity or when they learn something new about the Spectrum community. Each cup of coffee is a small step towards a more inclusive and understanding world. That, to me, is true success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spectrumbrews.com