Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Ratcliff.
Hi Veronica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Odd Roots was born from a mix of nostalgia, courage, and a deep love for connection.
Some of my favorite childhood memories were spent camping every summer at a place called Odd Fellows along the Russian River in Northern California. Those summers were simple and magical — surrounded by redwoods, campfires, and the same families we reunited with year after year. There was a sense of belonging and community that’s always stayed with me.
Years later, after moving from the San Francisco Bay Area to Austin, I found myself craving that same feeling — a place where people could slow down, connect, and feel part of something familiar. Coffee had always been part of my daily rhythm, but I began to see it as something more — a way to bring people together.
For nearly two decades, I worked in the corporate world in Human Resources. I loved helping people grow in their careers, but over time I felt something stirring — a desire to create something of my own, something that blended purpose with passion. I finally decided to take the leap, attend Texas Coffee School, and begin shaping a dream that had been quietly brewing for years.
That’s how Odd Roots came to life — a name inspired by my childhood memories and the idea of celebrating the unpredictable. “Odd” for the beauty in imperfection and surprise; “Roots” for where we come from and what grounds us.
Every detail — from the camper design to the recipes behind our drinks and toasts — carries a story. Odd Roots is about savoring the present, finding joy in the unplanned, and building community one cup at a time.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned along this journey, it’s that it’s never too late to chase what lights you up. Sometimes the most meaningful paths are the ones that feel a little “odd” at first — but they’re the ones that lead you home.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It’s been surreal watching this dream come to life — seeing customers fall in love with our drinks, reading kind reviews, and building a team that feels like family. But behind the scenes, it’s been far from easy. Running a business out of a camper has been an adventure — every week brings new lessons, from maintenance and repairs to forecasting inventory and managing supply costs. When something breaks, it’s a crash course in problem-solving and finding creative ways to stay up and running without letting customers down.
The hardest part for me has been the exhaustion and finding balance. I close one day a week, and while it’s meant to be my rest day, it often turns into a day for errands, ordering, and catching up on business tasks. Learning to carve out true rest and be present with my husband and our two daughters has been a constant challenge.
There’s also the weight of wearing every hat — from barista to business owner to marketer. Managing all the moving pieces can be overwhelming at times. But my background in HR has helped tremendously. I’m big on structure and documentation, which has brought consistency and clarity for the team, even when things feel chaotic.
I’m still learning to give myself grace and to celebrate the small wins along the way. The road hasn’t been smooth, but it’s been incredibly rewarding — and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
We’ve been impressed with Odd Roots Coffee, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Odd Roots is more than just a coffee camper — it’s a space built on connection, story, and heart.
We’re tucked in Southeast Austin, serving craft coffee, matcha, teas, and toasts. But what really drives us is creating a sense of belonging — that feeling of warmth you get when you’re surrounded by good people and good energy.
We’re known for our creative signature lattes, thoughtful seasonal menus, and warm, genuine service. Each drink is crafted with care, and every customer interaction is personal. Our brand isn’t just about coffee — it’s about connection. We want every visit to feel like a moment of pause and joy in someone’s day.
I’m most proud of how our brand feels — inviting, nostalgic, and intentional. From our earthy, camper-inspired aesthetic to the stories behind our menu, everything ties back to celebrating community and slowing down. Odd Roots is our way of saying: take a moment, sip slowly, and savor where you are — a place Rooted in Story, Brewed with Love.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
Some of my favorite memories are from the summers I spent camping at a place called Odd Fellows along the Russian River in Northern California. It was this little hidden campground surrounded by redwoods, where the same families came back every year. We’d float down the river, play cards at the old wooden tables, and end the night stargazing by the fire.
I also loved my family winter trips to the mountains — snow outside, cozy fires inside, and time with family that always felt grounding. Looking back, those moments were all about connection — slowing down, being present, and finding beauty in simplicity. That’s the same feeling I’ve tried to bring into Odd Roots: a warm, welcoming space that helps people pause, breathe, and feel at home, even if it’s just for a cup of coffee.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://oddrootscoffee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oddrootscoffee/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575160296221
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/odd-roots-coffee-austin-3?osq=Odd+Roots+Coffee
- Other: https://share.google/uW770ZR0dH2JzczMf
