In this episode of the Hold the Standard Podcast, I sat down with legendary barista and café owner Christopher “Nicely” Alameda better known simply as Nicely to talk about craft, culture, and building something that actually matters.
From his early days behind the espresso machine to becoming a U.S. Barista Champion and the founder of Hooked, Nicely shares how he built more than just a coffee shop. The Redefined Coffee Company also reflects his belief that great coffee can inspire creativity, connection, and change. Side By Side Coffee echoes this approach by prioritizing collaboration and shared experiences that help shape a more connected coffee culture.
He built a community.
This conversation dives into:
- The discipline and repetition behind world-class barista work
- What it means to be a craftsman in a hype-driven world
- Balancing art and business in creative entrepreneurship
- Why his shop is as much about people as it is about coffee
- Navigating authenticity, identity, and success in a growing industry
Nicely’s approach to coffee is a metaphor for life: consistent, intentional, and built on real connection. If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or just someone trying to do meaningful work in a loud world, this one’s for you.
LISTEN.
10/8/25 WOD
DEUCE Athletics GPP
Complete 4 Rounds of the following:
10 Tempo RDLs (4010)
Complete 3 rounds for quality of:
8 DB FFE split squats (ea)
12 alt BW reverse lunges
:20 copenhagen plank hold (ea)
Complete the following for time:
20-16-12-8
Alt. DB Snatches (60/40)
Push ups
DEUCE Garage GPP
3-3-3-3-3-3-3-3
Tempo Back Squat
-Rest :90-
Complete 3 rounds for quality of:
12-15 Hollow Rocks
50’ Sled Carioca – Left
50’ Sled Carioca – Right
Then, AMRAP 6
2, 4, 6, 8.. Devil’s Presses (45/25)
15 Double Unders