Jean Joyce Thompson is many things: mother, entrepreneur, world traveler, and chocolate lover. A native New Englander, Jean graduated from Bates College before embarking on a career in high tech. Between software and chocolate, Jean was raising two children in Bellevue, Washington, and devoting her free time to nonprofit work. After the 2001 Nisqually Earthquake left the Seattle Chocolate manufacturing facility in ruins, Jean took on the job of owner and CEO, relocating the factory and running the daily operations of the company.
Jean’s determination, willingness to learn and adapt, and curiosity fueled her as she led the company into a new era. In the process, she grew from marketer to business visionary, and from chocolate eater to chocolate maven with a sense of purpose.
In this episode…Chocolate comes in all sizes, shapes, and qualities. It’s thrown around on holidays and binged on a bad day. But does it really have a purpose beyond a sugary treat?
Jean Joyce Thompson and her Seattle Chocolate Company are using their creamy and delicious truffles to make a difference. Within the company, Jean is cherishing and empowering diversity among staff members. The new jcoco line of chocolate has donated over four million servings of food to food banks across the US. And of course, the simple gift of chocolate can brighten anyone’s day.
In this episode of the Gooder Podcast, host Diana Fryc is joined by Jean Joyce Thompson, Owner and CEO of Seattle Chocolate Company, to discuss the adventures of the chocolate business. Jean talks about why she bought the company, lessons she learned during the early days, and how the business is building up communities.
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