I’m Jon Schmidt—a potter, entrepreneur, adventurer, and storyteller. My journey began with a pivotal decision during my business management studies at Gustavus Adolphus College. After a semester abroad in India, I took a pottery class—an unexpected detour that transformed my life. As the lone business major among art students, I discovered a surprising passion for pottery, pouring energy into creating pieces that would shape my future.

In 2011, I took a leap of faith and purchased Mocha Monkey—a charming coffee shop in Waconia, MN, that blended coffee with handmade pottery. The original owners, Pam and Mark, took a chance on me, financing the sale and entrusting their vision to a 21-year-old entrepreneur with big dreams but limited resources. While finishing my college degree, I split my time between classes and running the shop, learning lessons in business ownership the hard way.

The original location grew into a beloved community hub. In this warm, creative space, people could connect, work, or enjoy a cup of coffee in an environment rich with character.

Over the years, Mocha Monkey expanded to three additional locations, each with its own story and charm:

• Downtown Waconia: Housed in a historic 135-year-old building, this two-story gathering space retains its original wood floors and community-first spirit.
• Waconia Bank: Partnering with Hometown Bank, we transformed a former drugstore into a dual-purpose coffee shop and banking space, complete with a drive-thru.
• St. Boni: This site features a cozy, artisanal feel and has become a community staple, particularly after adding a drive-thru.
• Carver: Our newest location in the growing Carver community features handmade touches like pendant lights, reclaimed wood decor, handpainted tables and murals painted by my wife.

From a makeshift studio in the basement of Mocha Monkey to a custom-built space at my home, pottery has been a cornerstone of my journey. My new studio is a creative haven and a gallery where I host events and share my craft. In 2018, I launched the Jon the Potter YouTube channel, which has grown to over 222,000 subscribers. It’s a platform to share my love for pottery, coffee, and family life with audiences around the world.

Our latest venture is coffee roasting, with plans to turn the St. Boni location into a roasting center. This evolution allows us to offer fresh beans, expand online sales, and even pair handmade mugs with locally roasted coffee. It’s an exciting chapter that combines my passions for pottery and coffee in new and innovative ways.

Mocha Monkey is more than a coffee shop—it’s a space where community thrives. From Sunday bluegrass jams to local workshops, we’ve become a gathering place where creativity and connection flourish. Supporting local artisans, partnering with small businesses, and participating in community events are central to our mission.

At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to celebrating imperfections, embracing creativity, and fostering community. From my first pottery class to running multiple businesses, this journey has been one of passion, perseverance, and endless possibilities.