Lynette “Nettie” Atkisson is a certified chocolate educator, chocolate sommelier, and author who believes flavor is a gateway to connection, curiosity, and cultural respect.

She’s the founder of Small Batch Education, a one-woman initiative that blends storytelling, sensory exploration, and poetic rebellion into unforgettable chocolate experiences. Nettie’s tastings are cozy, inclusive, and a little bit cheeky—designed for people who crave depth, delight, and a break from performative wellness.

Her children’s books on chocolate are sold in craft chocolate shops around the world, and she’s taught at festivals, libraries, and corporate events across the U.S. and abroad. Whether she’s guiding a watercolor tasting, unpacking the colonial history of cacao, or hosting a pop-up for the emotionally exhausted, Nettie invites people to slow down, ask better questions, and savor what’s real.

She tells the truth about cacao—its history, its complexity, and its cultural significance—and refuses to profit from the feel-good myths and spiritualized marketing that dominate the industry. Her work honors cacao’s roots without romanticizing them, and empowers consumers to think critically while still finding joy.

She doesn’t sell ceremonial cacao, but she’ll absolutely help you understand it. She doesn’t believe chocolate fixes everything—but it’s a pretty good place to start.