Making Something From Nothing: Christiaan Abbott of Entr’acte Coffee Company On How To Go From Idea To Launch

As a part of our series called “Making Something From Nothing”, we had the pleasure of interviewing Christiaan Abbott.

Christiaan Abbott’s career in the performing arts began at the tender age of 15 and has spanned an impressive array of theaters and productions. His journey took him from ballet and modern dance companies to the grand stages of multi-million-dollar Las Vegas productions, tours, cruise ships, and theme parks. He has worked with award-winning choreographers such as Arlene Philips, Antony Van Laast, and Jerry Jackson, and shared the stage with celebrities including Jay Leno, David Letterman, Wayne Brady, Michael Crawford, and David Cassidy. His credits include performances in notable productions such as ‘EFX’ at the MGM Grand, ‘Les Folies Bergere’ at the Tropicana Hotel and Casino, and ‘Imagine’ at the Luxor, as well as appearances on ‘Late Night with David Letterman’ and ‘The Tonight Show with Jay Leno’.

After a rich and varied career in dance, Christiaan transitioned into stage management, eventually becoming a cruise director for Disney Cruise Line. His evolution in the world of entertainment continued as he took on roles as Creative Director and Director of Entertainment for Disney Cruise Line.

In his current role at Catapult Lakeland, Christiaan Abbott brings his wealth of experience in show business to the world of business incubation. As Associate Director, he assists founders in navigating the challenges of business growth, using his unique perspective gained from years in the performing arts to inspire and guide new entrepreneurs. Additionally, Christiaan hosts ‘In The Holding Room’, a weekly video podcast on performerstuff.com, where he converses with professionals from the world of show business, further bridging his past experiences with his current endeavors in nurturing business talent. This role represents a new stage in Christiaan’s illustrious career, merging his passion for the arts with his commitment to fostering entrepreneurial success.”

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dive in, our readers would love to learn a bit more about you. Can you tell us a bit about your “childhood backstory”?

Growing up as the youngest of three boys in a military family, my life was a whirlwind of change. My father, a US Air Force Colonel, meant we were always on the move. I was born in New Mexico, and by the time I turned 10, I had already called six different states home. Each new city brought a fresh dance studio and a kaleidoscope of new faces and techniques, enriching my journey into professional dance. My parents were my biggest supporters; my mother cherished my passion for the arts, and my father even volunteered at my ballet school to help subsidize the multitude of classes I was eager to take.

The ’90s saw me in Las Vegas, not just dancing but soaring as an acrobat in some of the most prestigious and extravagant shows on the strip. It was a thrilling era, sharing the stage with renowned celebrities and performing for Emmy and Tony award-winning choreographers. Each step, leap, and twirl wasn’t just a performance; it was a chapter of an extraordinary story that I was lucky enough to live.”

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

Ann Marie Houghtailing once said, ‘Feedback is a free education to excellence. Seek it with sincerity and receive it with grace.’ This quote resonates deeply with me, especially considering my ever-changing backdrop of cities and stages. My journey, filled with an array of shows and a diverse cast of characters, taught me the invaluable skill of adapting to different personalities. In the world of performing arts, feedback is our daily bread — it’s constant, it’s varied, and it’s crucial. Embracing criticism, understanding it, and using it as a tool for growth has been a cornerstone of my career. Each piece of advice, every constructive comment, has been a stepping stone in my path to improvement. They’ve not only polished my skills but also opened my eyes to new perspectives and techniques I might have otherwise missed. So, yes, I’ve learned to cherish feedback, for it has been one of my greatest teachers in the quest for excellence.

Is there a particular book, podcast, or film that made a significant impact on you? Can you share a story or explain why it resonated with you so much?

A Chorus Line’ was more than just a musical to me; it was a revelation and a guiding star in my early days as an aspiring dancer. The raw honesty and celebration of each dancer’s unique journey in this iconic show struck a chord in my heart. It painted a vivid picture of the dance world — a world of relentless challenges but also of triumphant joy. This musical didn’t just entertain; it educated and inspired. It taught me about the unwavering dedication required in our craft, the relentless pursuit of dreams despite obstacles, and the invaluable sense of belonging found in the dance community.

Each character, each story on that stage, was a brushstroke in the vibrant portrait of what it means to live and breathe dance. Their struggles and victories became my lessons. The dynamic choreography wasn’t just movement; it was storytelling that shaped my own identity as an artist. ‘A Chorus Line’ fostered in me a profound respect for the art of dance and a deep-seated appreciation for the power of artistic expression. It was a defining influence, one that has stayed with me every step, leap, and turn of my journey.

Ok super. Let’s now shift to the main part of our discussion. There is no shortage of good ideas out there. Many people have good ideas all the time. But people seem to struggle in taking a good idea and translating it into an actual business. Can you share a few ideas from your experience about how to overcome this challenge?

The key to transforming a good idea into a thriving business lies not in its novelty, but in the unique touch you bring to it. In a world where originality seems scarce, remember that the most distinctive element is you and your perspective. At Catapult Lakeland, where I serve as the Associate Director, I constantly witness and assist entrepreneurs in embedding their personal vision into their ventures. We provide them with the resources and guidance to navigate the challenges of business growth, encouraging them to infuse their identity into their work.

Take my journey with Entr’acte Coffee Company, for instance. Yes, the world is full of coffee roasters, but what sets Entr’acte apart is its reflection of my life’s passions and experiences. It’s not just about brewing coffee; it’s about blending the exuberant world of theater with the art of coffee-making. The name ‘Entr’acte’ signifies more than just a brand; it’s a nod to my transition from the world of dance and stage management to becoming a coffee entrepreneur, marking the start of a new chapter in my life. Just as an entr’acte in a theater performance offers a moment of respite, each cup of our coffee provides a pause to relish in the rich flavors and the stories of Broadway. From selecting the finest beans to creating distinctive blends, every aspect of Entr’acte Coffee is imbued with my artistic journey, aiming to deliver not just a coffee but an experience that resonates with the soul of theater.

This philosophy of personalization and passion is what I advocate for at Catapult Lakeland as well. It’s about turning your unique vision into a reality that not only fulfills your dream but also resonates with others.”

What are your “5 Things I Wish Someone Told Me When I First Started Leading My Company” and why?

1 . The time is now! Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey has never been more accessible or inviting. In today’s digital age, the doors to business ownership are wide open, with the threshold remarkably easy to cross. The key? Just begin. The internet has laid the world at your feet — from building sleek, user-friendly websites to harnessing the power of targeted advertising and diving deep into market research. Every tool you need is just a click away, waiting to transform your vision into a vibrant reality. This era has simplified what was once daunting, turning dreams into tangible opportunities. So, why wait? The moment to act is now, with every resource at your fingertips to guide your path to success.

2 . Embrace the power of partnership! Embarking on an entrepreneurial journey solo can be daunting, but finding the right partner can turbocharge your motivation and drive. When I teamed up with Jon, my entrepreneurial spirit shifted into high gear. The sense of accountability and shared purpose we developed together fueled our progress exponentially. While I always knew I had the spirit of an entrepreneur, eager to carve out my own path, Jon’s presence brought an invaluable blend of support and complementary expertise. This partnership significantly eased the stress and fear typically associated with starting a new venture. Moreover, having a partner means sharing the workload, making the initial stages of launching a business feel less overwhelming and more achievable. A co-founder doesn’t just share the burden; they multiply the enthusiasm, knowledge, and determination, making the journey towards realizing your business dream less solitary and more fulfilling.

3 . Start with a “Side Hustle.” Creating your own business doesn’t mean you have to take a giant leap into the unknown — you can start it as a side project! Hold onto your day job and chip away at your entrepreneurial dream piece by piece. This approach lets you enjoy the stability of your current employment while you navigate the ins and outs of establishing and launching your own venture. We embraced this method at our coffee company, carefully taking the time we needed to source the perfect beans and master the art of roasting them to peak flavor. Developing the brand’s identity, infusing it with my personal touch, was a journey of reflection and creativity that didn’t happen overnight. It reminds me of Stephen Sondheim’s words, ‘Bit by bit, putting it together.’ That’s exactly how you can build a successful business — patiently, thoughtfully, ensuring each step is laid down with care and precision, all while maintaining the security of your regular job. This strategy offers a balanced pathway to success, allowing your business dream to grow organically without the pressure of immediate full-time commitment.

4 . Don’t be afraid of the fast track! The journey to becoming an official business owner can be astonishingly swift and straightforward. Imagine this: in just one day, you could file for your LLC, open a business bank account, and step into the realm of official entrepreneurship. Follow that with securing your Employer Identification Number (EIN), and suddenly, you’re racing towards your business goals. The thrill and motivation that come from making your business official are incredible. It transforms the abstract idea of ‘starting a business’ into tangible reality. And if you’re unsure about the process, there’s no barrier to learning. Resources like YouTube are at your fingertips, offering step-by-step guides on everything from filing paperwork to setting up your finances. In today’s world, there truly are no excuses. The path from dreaming about a business to actually owning one is shorter and more accessible than ever. So why wait? Your entrepreneurial future is just one day of focused action away.

5 . Leverage your community! Never underestimate the power of seeking help when embarking on your entrepreneurial journey. Your community is a goldmine of resources, often housing numerous nonprofits dedicated to nurturing business success. These organizations can provide invaluable guidance and support. Furthermore, don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow business owners. Most people enjoy sharing their stories and experiences. Invite them for a coffee and dive into a treasure trove of insights and advice by asking thoughtful questions about their journey.

For those reading this interview with a budding idea for a product, here’s what you should consider doing first: start by exploring the world of invention development consultants. These professionals specialize in turning ideas into tangible products and can be instrumental in navigating the initial phases of product development. However, the decision to hire a consultant or go solo depends on your confidence level, expertise, and the nature of your product. If you have a clear vision and the necessary skills, striking out on your own could be exhilarating and rewarding. But if you feel unsure about the technicalities or market strategies, a consultant’s expertise could be the catalyst that transforms your idea into a viable, market-ready invention. Either way, the key is to start with a solid foundation of research and advice, and then take the leap with confidence and determination.

Let’s imagine that a reader reading this interview has an idea for a product that they would like to invent. What are the first few steps that you would recommend that they take?

I always ask new entrepreneurs, “What makes your idea special?” At Entr’acte Coffee Company for example, we strongly believe in using our success as a vehicle for positive change, especially in the world of arts and creativity. Our primary focus is on supporting and nurturing young talent in the arts. We offer scholarships specifically for boys who aspire to careers in artistic fields, grounded in our conviction that creative expression has a powerful and transformative impact. By investing in these young artists, we’re not just aiding individual growth; we’re enriching entire communities. These budding artists bring fresh perspectives, ideas, and energy, contributing to a vibrant cultural landscape. Our commitment to this cause extends beyond financial support; it’s about fostering a nurturing environment for these talents to flourish. Through our efforts, we aim to spark a chain of positive influences, brightening the future for these young creatives and, in turn, enhancing the world around us with their artistry and passion.

You are an inspiration to a great many people. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.

The simple act of sharing a cup of coffee holds an incredible power that many overlook. It’s much more than a routine gesture; it’s a profound opportunity to forge connections, foster understanding, and truly engage with one another. Imagine every sip as the beginning of a conversation, each one a chance to build bridges and share different perspectives. Coffee has this unique ability to bring people together, breaking down barriers and nurturing empathy in a shared, inclusive space.

I envision a movement where coffee becomes a catalyst for positive social change. In this movement, every coffee shared becomes a platform for meaningful dialogue, a space where ideas are exchanged, and understanding is deepened. It’s about recognizing the potential in these everyday interactions to create a ripple effect of goodwill and compassion. Through this, we can foster a global community of connected individuals, transcending differences and uniting over a shared experience. The goal is to leverage the universal appeal of coffee to ignite conversations that matter, one cup at a time, ultimately leading to a more empathetic and connected world.

We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them.

It would be an absolute dream come true to sit down for a meal with Lin-Manuel Miranda. His incredible journey in Broadway resonates deeply with my own path and passion for the performing arts. More than just his groundbreaking work in theater, it’s his unwavering dedication to leveraging his platform for societal good that truly inspires me. Our shared commitment to nurturing and promoting the arts creates a common ground I would love to explore further.

Beyond discussing our professional pursuits, I relish the opportunity to dive into a more casual conversation about our favorite aspects of Broadway. Imagine swapping stories about the characters that have moved us, the shows that have left an indelible mark, and the unforgettable performances that define our love for theater. A conversation with Lin-Manuel would not just be about connecting over shared interests; it would be an exchange of ideas and inspirations, a chance to fuel our mutual passion for using the arts as a force for positive change in the world.

Thank you for these fantastic insights. We greatly appreciate the time you spent on this.

About the Interviewer: Douglas E. Noll, JD, MA was born nearly blind, crippled with club feet, partially deaf, and left-handed. He overcame all of these obstacles to become a successful civil trial lawyer. In 2000, he abandoned his law practice to become a peacemaker. His calling is to serve humanity, and he executes his calling at many levels. He is an award-winning author, teacher, and trainer. He is a highly experienced mediator. Doug’s work carries him from international work to helping people resolve deep interpersonal and ideological conflicts. Doug teaches his innovative de-escalation skill that calms any angry person in 90 seconds or less. With Laurel Kaufer, Doug founded Prison of Peace in 2009. The Prison of Peace project trains life and long terms incarcerated people to be powerful peacemakers and mediators. He has been deeply moved by inmates who have learned and applied deep, empathic listening skills, leadership skills, and problem-solving skills to reduce violence in their prison communities. Their dedication to learning, improving, and serving their communities motivates him to expand the principles of Prison of Peace so that every human wanting to learn the skills of peace may do so. Doug’s awards include California Lawyer Magazine Lawyer of the Year, Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year, Purpose Prize Fellow, International Academy of Mediators Syd Leezak Award of Excellence, National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals Neutral of the Year. His four books have won a number of awards and commendations. Doug’s podcast, Listen With Leaders, is now accepting guests. Click on this link to learn more and apply.