Episode 135- Liz Tavarez

In this episode of the Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, Sara Chambers chats with Liz Tavarez, co-owner (with her husband Juan) of The Coronado and Dark Hall Coffee in Phoenix, Arizona. Liz shares that they became owners when The Coronado opened in 2015 with partners, and since 2022 she and Juan have been sole owners, with Liz handling much of the behind-the-scenes work. She explains why both businesses are vegan, tracing it to their shift to vegetarianism after rescuing and rehoming dogs and realizing the inconsistency of protecting some animals while eating others, and wanting to save more animals by serving plant-based meals. Liz also discusses the importance of genuine values-based communication, especially on social media, and how authenticity helps when responding to challenges. The conversation touches on their public stance regarding ICE presence in central Phoenix, including posting signage about rights and warrants, marking employees-only areas, and aiming to protect employees and help customers feel safe. Liz notes community support and reciprocity as reasons for standing with the oppressed.