Send Ben a message, he'd love to hear from you. What does it look like to leave behind a successful career in law and finance to pursue your true passion? In this episode, we sit down with Joe, the owner and sole operator of Tradecraft, Morton's newest bakery specializing in expertly crafted French laminated pastries. Yum! Joe's journey is a bit unconventional. From East Peoria to Chicago, Philadelphia, Texas, and back again—he's been a law student, a university administrator, a Certified Financial Planner with an MBA, and now, a trained French pastry chef who found his home in Morton just three months ago. But here's what makes Joe's story truly special. Open just two days a week (Saturdays and Sundays, 8am-12pm), Joe runs Tradecraft entirely by himself because this isn't a job—it's a craft. It's a passion. And in his own words, it's how he found "the cheat code to life." We talk about what it takes to master the art of laminated pastries, why he chose Morton over the big city, the buildout process from farmers market to brick-and-mortar, and what it means to define success on your own terms. Joe's philosophy on quality over quantity, craftsmanship over commerce, and passion over profit will resonate with anyone who's ever dreamed of doing what they love. Whether you're a croissant connoisseur, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone searching for permission to pursue your passion—this conversation is for you. Tradecraft is located in Morton, Illinois, and is open Saturdays and Sundays from 8am-12pm. ( https://www.tradecraftbakeshop.com/about ) Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/hrSjgg6RS13sTc1F6 108 E. Queenwood, Morton, Illinois Morton MUSE & News celebrates the small-town values, businesses, and people that make Morton special. Thank you for supporting local stories and small-town voices. Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Or wherever you get your podcasts Connect with us: Website: mortonmuseandnews.buzzsprout.com Facebook: Morton MUSE & News Morton MUSE & News is a community-supported podcast. Contributions from guests and listeners help cover hosting and production costs. Thank you to our guests for sharing their stories and supporting the show. “Hey friends! If you’ve enjoyed hearing stories from right here in Morton—our businesses, our schools, our neighbors—you can help keep this podcast going. Every little bit counts—whether it’s a one-time tip or a small monthly gift. It helps cover the cost of hosting, equipment, and producing each episode. Visit a link below to pitch in and be part of keeping Morton Muse & News growing strong. Thanks for supporting local voices!” Direct support links: Paypal Venmo CashApp Social Media links: Morton Muse & News Facebook Morton MUSE & News Instagram Muse Morton (the studio and gallery)
