Today we’d like to introduce you to David Kovatch.
Hi David, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is David Kovatch. I’m a classically trained chef of 25 years. I started in the restaurant business when I was 14 and never left. I went to culinary school and business school at Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. I started cooking in the kitchen with my mom when I was about 5 years old and always loved it, so I figured, why not make a career out of something I love doing? I am the founder of Sacred Waters Kava Bar- Ohio’s first kava bars. I am also an inventor. I developed, patented, and manufactured a product called Pan Stackers. Pan Stackers is a storage and organization solution in commercial food service kitchens. I’m also an initiated shamanic priest in an ancient living tradition that predates the Inca Empire called the Paqo Kuna. I’m a licensed minister in the state of Ohio and the founder of a church called the Ministry of Shamanic Healing and Integration (MOSHI). We are raising awareness and abundance in order to open the first multi-modal healing center in Ohio. My healing journey started after my own years-long struggle with addiction, depression, and anxiety. My purpose in life is to help others heal and find self-love and inner peace. I’m called to create safe spaces that revolve around healing and hope that are a catalyst for systemic healing for all who seek it.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road. I have had many struggles along the way. I was hopelessly addicted to alcohol for many years and found joy in nothing. The restaurant industry is notorious for toxic work environments and substance abuse. The economy has also created a lot of uncertainty and volatility within the industry. I was very fortunate to be able to open my own businesses and create a culture change from within. The most powerful thing we can do is lead by example.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Sacred Waters Kava Bar is a very unique and special business. Being the first in Ohio, our most important responsibility is to educate our customers about the wonderful plant allies we serve and practice harm reduction surrounding these plants. We have built a very loving and conscious community open to all who seek it. Most of our customers either don’t drink alcohol or are in recovery themselves. The Sacred Waters community is so supportive of each other in so many ways- and a totally judgment-free community. Our community is comprised of people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life who are creating genuine connections, friendships and sharing nothing but love and support.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I have always been a risk-taker. I have a go big or go home approach to life. If I decide to do something, I do it with my whole heart. I have invested everything I have into my businesses in order to create community- something we need now more than ever. I have made mistakes along the way, but I learned so much and wouldn’t have it any other way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sacredwaterskavabar.com, www.panstackers.com, www.moshilove.org
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj267z_w6g72bYkwemJwNHw
