Ben McQueen is CEO of Karuna Kava Bar, a Boise-based entrepreneur, father of three, and advocate for recovery, helping others find community and freedom through kava and nonalcoholic beverages.

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Guest Resources

Karuna Kava Bar – Check out Ben’s website and learn more about their mission of creating alcohol-free social spaces.

3 Value Bombs

1. Success is measured by the quality of your relationships, not just hustle.

2. Community is a powerful tool for recovery, lasting freedom comes through meaningful connection.

3. Start where you are with what you have, imperfect action creates momentum and growth.

Show Notes

**Click the time stamp to jump directly to that point in the episode.

Today’s Audio MASTERCLASS: Recovery and Connection Through Kava

[00:58] – Ben shares something he believes about becoming successful that most people disagree with.

Success should be defined personally rather than by hustle culture.
Ben measures success by the time he spends with his family, friends, and community.
Entrepreneurship should support your life—not consume it.

[3:02] – Ben talks about how his journey from alcohol addiction to discovering Kava reshaped his life.

Childhood trauma and alcohol addiction led him into destructive patterns and eventually homelessness.
While living in sober housing, he discovered Kava during a moment of intense craving.
Kava helped eliminate his alcohol cravings while introducing him to a supportive community, changing the direction of his life.

[5:51] – Ben talks about what Kava is, and why are Kava bars and zero-proof spaces growing in popularity.

Kava is a traditional South Pacific beverage made from the root of the Kava plant.
It promotes relaxation, social connection, and calm without alcohol’s addictive cycle.
Kava bars provide authentic community at a time when many people are seeking healthier social alternatives.

[10:47] – A timeout to thank our sponsors.

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HighLevel: The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies! Learn more at HighLevelFire.com!

[13:02] – Ben talks about how he built Karuna Kava from a personal mission into a growing business.

He started by selling Kava wherever he could; from Facebook Marketplace to farmers markets.
Consistent action demonstrated proof of concept and attracted investors.
Maintaining a student mindset has allowed both Ben and the business to continue evolving.

[16:42] – Ben talks about the biggest mistake he made while building the business.

Continuing to struggle with alcohol early in the business created authenticity challenges.
Achieving lasting sobriety strengthened both his personal life and the company’s mission.
Navigating banking and payment processing obstacles required persistence and creative problem-solving.

[18:33] – ben talks about how Karuna is creating a community while helping people find freedom from alcohol.

Karuna hosts Kava Circles and recovery support meetings that emphasize connection without judgment.
Members celebrate milestones together and support one another through setbacks.
Genuine relationships often become the foundation for lasting recovery.

[20:46] – Ben gives his advice to entrepreneurs who are looking to build a mission-driven business.

Clearly define the problem you’re solving and understand your customer’s needs.
Start small instead of waiting for perfect funding or ideal conditions.
Grow deliberately to preserve quality, customer experience, and company culture.

[22:00] – Call to action.

Karuna Kava Bar – Check out Ben’s website and learn more about their mission of creating alcohol-free social spaces.
Visit a Kava bar if one is available in your community.
Most importantly, choose one area of your life that needs improvement and begin making consistent progress today.

[23:36] – Thank you to our Sponsors!

Fitnexa: If better sleep is a priority for you, Fitnexa helps you create the environment and routine to make it happen. Visit Fitnexa.com and use code EOFIRE10 to save $10 on SomniPods 3 today!
HighLevel: The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies! Learn more at HighLevelFire.com!

Killer Resources!

1) The Common Path to Uncommon Success: JLD’s 1st traditionally published book! Over 3000 interviews with the world’s most successful Entrepreneurs compiled into a 17-step roadmap to financial freedom and fulfillment!

2) Free Podcast Course: Learn from JLD how to create and launch your podcast!

3) Podcasters’ Paradise: The #1 podcasting community in the world!