What if your morning cup of coffee could help transform someone’s life?

In this unforgettable episode of Mission First People Always, Dr. Mike Patterson sits down with Jenny Barber—survivor, leader, and co-founder of Talitha Coffee—for a conversation that will change the way you think about business, leadership, and human dignity.

Jenny’s personal journey from surviving child exploitation to founding a thriving, purpose-driven company is nothing short of extraordinary.

With over 140 employees and 9 coffee shops, Talitha Coffee is more than a business—it’s a movement of healing, hope, and tangible restoration for survivors of trafficking.

In this episode, Jenny opens up about the meaning behind the name “Talitha,” how her personal pain fuels her mission, and how she's built a people-first company that integrates business with deep compassion and purpose.

Whether you’re a business leader, social advocate, or someone looking to live with more intention—this episode will inspire you to lead with courage and heart.

This episode is a reminder that one person’s story—when paired with vision and bold leadership—can change countless lives.

Hit play now to hear Jenny’s powerful journey and discover how your leadership can be a vehicle for healing, justice, and lasting impact.

What You’ll Learn:

Jenny’s story of overcoming child exploitation and stepping into leadership

The biblical and emotional meaning behind the name “Talitha”

How Talitha Coffee grew from a vision to a multi-location mission

What the Talitha Care Network provides for survivors (job training, housing, healthcare & more)

How personal mission shapes leadership style and decision-making

Practical ways to support the anti-trafficking movement through your everyday choices

Links for This Episode:
https://talitha.com/mikepatterson
https://www.instagram.com/talithacoffeeroasters
https://www.instagram.com/jennybarber22

Connect with Dr. Mike:
Website: https://www.drmikepatterson.com
Book: https://www.missionfirstpeoplealwaysbook.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmichaellpatterson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealdrmikepatterson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmikepatterson
Buy The Book! Mission First People Always

Episode Minute By Minute:
00:00 – Introduction: From survival to social impact
01:48 – Meet Jenny Barber: Advocate, leader, and founder
03:10 – Jenny’s personal story of overcoming exploitation
07:25 – Why she launched Talitha Coffee
10:44 – The meaning behind the name “Talitha”
13:02 – How the Talitha Care Network supports survivors
16:35 – From vision to 9 thriving coffee shops
20:15 – Challenges of growing a people-first business
23:20 – Leadership lessons from lived experience
26:00 – Trauma-informed culture in the workplace
29:12 – The power of purpose-driven teams
32:44 – How listeners can support Talitha’s mission
35:00 – Final thoughts: Leading with courage, empathy, and hope