🚒 Fueling Purpose and Growth | Luke Schneider’s Road to National Expansion ☕✈️
Few stories embody purpose, perseverance, and passion like that of Luke Schneider, CEO and co-founder of Fire Department Coffee — a brand built by firefighters, for everyone who loves great coffee and a great mission.
In this week’s episode of The Travel Wins, I sit down with Luke to discuss his journey from firehouse to boardroom, and how his company is blazing a new trail across the nation — from local beginnings to Walmart shelves and beyond.
🔥 From Firefighter to Founder
Luke’s path started with service — as a U.S. Navy veteran and firefighter, he knew the importance of teamwork, resilience, and reliability. These same values became the backbone of Fire Department Coffee (FDC), a veteran-owned business known for its high-quality, small-batch roasts that fuel first responders and coffee lovers alike.
What began as a small roasting operation has grown into a nationally recognized brand — and now, with Walmart partnerships expanding across the country, Luke’s team is reaching more households than ever.
✈️ Leading from the Road
Our conversation dives into Luke’s recent travels as he visits new retail partners, distributors, and Fire Department Coffee fans across the U.S. Whether it’s meeting with store teams in the Midwest or checking in on expansion plans out West, Luke continues to embody the entrepreneurial grit and discipline he honed in uniform.
He shares stories of balancing leadership, logistics, and life on the go, offering insight into how he stays grounded — literally and figuratively — while navigating constant growth.
☕ Brewing for a Cause
Fire Department Coffee isn’t just about great coffee — it’s about giving back. Through the Fire Dept. Coffee Foundation, a portion of every purchase supports injured and ill first responders, helping those who’ve given their all in service.
Luke explains how this mission fuels his drive, ensuring every cup poured supports a greater purpose. With new partnerships, products, and expansion plans on the horizon, 2025 is shaping up to be one of the company’s biggest years yet.
🎧 Tune In
If you’ve ever wondered how to scale a purpose-driven brand, manage a national operation, and still find time for family and service — this episode is a must-listen. Luke’s blend of authenticity, humility, and hustle is a perfect example of what makes American entrepreneurship thrive.
Connect with Luke and Fire Department Coffee on their social media pages:
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The Travel Wins intro song by Allison Johnson and Steve Stevens
Special thanks to our episode partners Bausele Watches, Ocean Breeze Cleaners, Legacy Sports Nutrition and Tycoon Payments. If you get a chance visit my Partners page on my website.
