Seeking Joy with Kathy D’Agostino of Chocolatá


In this episode of The Localist, host Carrie Rollwagen chats with Kathy D’Agostino, the founder of Chocolatá, about the joys and challenges of running a chocolate shop. Kathy emphasizes the positive work environment at her shop, which is fostered by the small, closely-knit team sharing similar values. The discussion delves into Kathy’s hiring process, highlighting the blend of personal recommendations and walk-ins, and stressing the importance of kitchen experience and food handling certifications. Kathy also reflects on starting her career in a chocolate shop as a teenager, which set the groundwork for her future business ambitions.

Despite some hurdles, Kathy’s passion for her craft, along with the use of innovative branding and packaging, have helped Chocolatá thrive. Listeners are encouraged to follow Kathy’s journey on Instagram or get in touch via email and phone, as she continues to focus on creating a joyful work environment and delicious chocolate treats.

Mentioned in this episode:

Chocolatá Website: https://www.chocolatachocolate.com/

Chocolatá Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chocolata_bham

Chocolatá Phone Number: 205-215-0416

Innovation Depot: https://innovationdepot.org/

Brombergs: https://brombergs.com/

Phoenix Building: https://thephoenixbuilding.com/

Sidewalk Film Festival: https://sidewalkfest.com/

Magic City Organics: https://magiccityorganics.com/

Magic City Organics Localist episode: https://carrierollwagen.com/podcast-episodes/surviving-regulations-rollercoaster-magic-city-organics/

Yellowhammer: https://yellowhammer-creative.myshopify.com/

Pepper Place: https://www.pepperplace.com/

Revival Antiques: https://revivalantiques.org/

General: https://www.facebook.com/generalbham?mibextid=ZbWKwL

Saturn (Domestique): https://www.domestiquecoffee.com/

Punch Love Coffee: https://www.instagram.com/punchlovecoffee?igshid=6qm4a079lw6q

MAKE Birmingham: https://www.makebhm.com/

Pizza Grace: https://pizzagrace.com/

Cannella Gelato: https://cannellagelato.com/Lifelyles: https://www.facebook.com/lifelyles/

About Carrie

Carrie Rollwagen is host of the Localist podcast and cofounder of Church Street Coffee & Books. Currently, she works as Vice President of Strategic Planning at Infomedia, a web development company in Birmingham, Alabama. Find the Localist at @thinklocalist on Instagram and follow Carrie at @crollwagen.

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