Buy the Drip - Coffee and Business

One of the top minds and contributors to Panamanian coffee is Roger Pitti, the general manager of Altieri Coffee, National Judge and the treasurer of the Specialty Coffee Association of Panama.In this conversation we walk through the task of operating a top-in-the-world coffee farm, with a full integrated model that includes a roastery, coffee shop and one of the most gorgeous views you'll ever see from a coffee shop experience, plus two manual production coffee farms; Mimas Estate and Pipims Estate.This is the only conversation where Cole wears a black shirt.Cole lives in Panama full time and curates a selection of top Panama Geisha and Varietals, from Altieri and Panamanian producers you see in these videos.. Forward is a green coffee sourcing and exporting company based in Chiriqui, Panama, working with 20+ producers. Cole is one of 22 International Judges for the Best of Panama and is ready to source your next favourite coffee. Forward is a Panamanian registered business and exporter living and working in Panama 12 months per yearROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. Dave and the team at Rosso roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try world-class coffeeFollow on INSTAGRAMFollow RogerFollow Altieri CoffeeStay updated with the latestFollow Forward CoffeeFollow DaveFollow Cole

Victoria Koyner is the fourth generation of Kotowa Farms, which started in 1913 by Alexander Duncan MacIntyre, a Canadian who had found his way to the tropical landscapes of Boquete, Panama.Kotowa focuses on producing some of the best Geisha you'll ever taste, over a wide portfolio of coffee farms as well as other specialty agricultural products, such as cacao and tea. Victoria did her studies in Oregon, focusing on the business and production in the world of wine - in this conversation, we make many comparisons and contrasts between the world of coffee and the world of wine. Cole lives in Panama full time and curates a selection of top Panama Geisha and Varietals, from Kotowa and Panamanian producers you see in these videos.. Forward⁠ is a green coffee sourcing and exporting company based in Chiriqui, Panama, working with 20+ producers. Cole is one of 22 International Judges for the ⁠Best of Panama⁠ and is ready to source your next favourite coffee. Forward is a Panamanian registered business and exporter living and working in Panama 12 months per year.⁠ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS⁠, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. Dave and the team at Rosso roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try world-class coffee.Follow on INSTAGRAMFollow VictoriaStay updated with the latest: Buy The DripFollow ⁠Forward Coffee⁠Follow DaveFollow Cole

One of the first conversations we had in the Panama Producer series, Graciano and Cole go into a deep discussion of terroir, topography and the beauty of Panama.Are you interested in accessing Graciano Geisha and other specialty coffee Varietals? Cole lives in Panama full time and curates a selection of top Panama Geisha and Varietals, from Graciano and Panamanian producers you see in these videos.Forward is a green coffee sourcing and exporting company based in Chiriqui, Panama, working with 20+ producers. Cole is one of 22 International Judges for the Best of Panama and is ready to source your next favourite coffee. Forward is a Panamanian registered business and exporter living and working in Panama 12 months per year.ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. Dave and the team at Rosso roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try world-class coffee.Follow on INSTAGRAMFollow Graciano⁠Stay updated with the latest: Buy The DripFollow Forward CoffeeFollow DaveFollow Cole

Cole sits down with Karin de la Rosa, the visionary coffee producer at the helm of Mount Totumas. The Geisha from Mount Totumas has been used to win the World Brewers Cup Championship, the Best of Panama and numerous top awards in the Best of Panama. In this conversation, you'll hear the story of how Karin fell into the World of coffee and quickly became a globally renowned coffee producer.FORWARD COFFEE Find access to a selection of top Panama Geisha and Varietals. Forward is a green coffee sourcing and exporting company based in Chiriqui, Panama, working with 20+ producers. Cole is one of 22 International Judges for the Best of Panama and is ready to source your next favourite coffee. Forward is a Panamanian registered business and exporter living and working in Panama 12 months per year: ⁠ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: ⁠Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: Buy The Drip ⁠Follow Forward CoffeeFollow DaveFollow Cole

Cole sits down with Daniel Peterson to pull back the curtain on a legacy that redefined specialty coffee. In a historic turn of events, Hacienda La Esmeralda accomplished what many thought impossible: a clean sweep of the podium at the 2025 Best of Panama, taking first place in the Geisha Washed, Geisha Natural, and Varietal categories.This conversation goes far beyond the awards. Daniel recounts the "accidental" survival of the Geisha variety during a devastating fungus outbreak in 1999, an event that paved the way for the 2004 discovery that shocked the industry. They discuss the "uncharted territory" of the $30,204 per kilo price point and what it actually feels like to produce a coffee that commands $1,000 per cup.FORWARD COFFEE Find access to a selection of top Panama Geisha and Varietals. Forward is a green coffee sourcing and exporting company based in Chiriqui, Panama, working with 20+ producers. Cole is one of 22 International Judges for the Best of Panama and is ready to source your next favourite coffee. Forward is a Panamanian registered business and exporter living and working in Panama 12 months per yearROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffeesFollow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latestFollow Forward CoffeeFollow DaveFollow Cole

The Reality of Coffee Media, Competitions, and the Industry | Kirk PearsonCoffee competitions, coffee media, and the online coffee world often look polished from the outside. But behind the scenes, the reality is far more complicated.In this episode of Buy The Drip, we sit down with Kirk Pearson to talk about the evolution of specialty coffee media, the role competitions play in shaping the industry, and what it actually takes to build platforms that help push coffee forward.Kirk shares his journey through coffee from competing and working in cafes to helping create some of the most widely followed coffee content and discussions online. We talk about what works, what doesn’t, and how conversations around coffee are changing as more voices enter the industry.The discussion also dives into the tension between education, entertainment, and authenticity in coffee media, and why storytelling matters just as much as technical knowledge.Along the way we explore:• How coffee media and YouTube changed the industry• The role competitions play in shaping careers and ideas• Why transparency and honest conversation matter in coffee• What it takes to build platforms that people actually trust• The future of specialty coffee storytellingThis episode is a look behind the curtain of coffee culture — from competitions and cafés to the media that connects the whole industry.If you enjoy conversations about the people shaping coffee, subscribe and follow Buy The Drip for more episodes.

Coffee competitions are what the industry sees. The lights. The routines. The trophies.But the real work happens long before anyone steps on stage.In this episode, Cole sits down with Andrea Tan the first Singapore Brewers Cup Champion, green coffee buyer, judge, and World Coffee Events Representative. They unpack what it actually takes to run fair, meaningful competitions around the world.Andrea shares her path from waiting tables to standing on the world stage, and how competition shaped her perspective not just as a competitor, but as a judge and now a WCE Rep. We talk about responsibility, empathy, and the weight of writing a full scoresheet when someone’s poured months of work into 15 minutes.Beyond competitions, the conversation expands into green coffee buying, trust, and what she learned from recent time spent in Ethiopia from shifting cup profiles to infrastructure changes and the evolution of transparency in origin markets.This episode isn’t just about competition rules.It’s about:• What fairness actually looks like in practice• The role of feedback in shaping careers• How reps support national bodies around the world• The changing landscape of Ethiopian coffee• Why empathy and people skills matter as much as technical knowledgeIt’s a conversation about contributing to coffee beyond the spotlight and about building systems people can trust.If you care about competitions, green buying, or the long game of this industry, this one goes deeper than the stage.Subscribe and follow along for more conversations like this on Buy The Drip.

Most of us obsess over beans, brew methods, and grinders… but ignore the one thing that actually touches our lips.The cup.In this episode, we sit down with Johnny Loh, the engineer and founder behind ICOSA Brewhouse, to talk about how vessel design can completely change the way coffee tastes.Johnny didn’t start in coffee. In fact, he didn’t even drink it when he began designing cups. His background in engineering and sensory design led him to ask a simple question: if wine and whiskey have purpose-built glassware, why doesn’t specialty coffee?We break down how shape, surface area, aeration, and geometry influence aroma release, temperature retention, and flavor perception. Johnny shares the experiments, the skepticism, and the real-world results from cafés, competitions, and high-end hospitality environments.We also explore:• Why traditional mugs might be limiting premium coffee• How “pattern interrupts” elevate the customer experience• The psychology of value and perception in hospitality• Whether certain coffees deserve their own dedicated vessel shapes• What the future of coffee service could look likeThis conversation isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about intentional design, sensory science, and creating experiences that match the quality of the coffee itself.

We sit down with the two-time Filipino National Barista Champion and the mind behind the Better Vessel. Michael’s journey started in his family’s rope business and evolved into building one of the Philippines’ most respected coffee operations, working with brands like McDonald’s and 7-Eleven along the way.We talk about the risk that changed everything.... importing just two containers of coffee when most people thought it was crazy. How that decision helped shape one of the country’s most iconic roasteries. Michael shares how experimenting with Liberica and hybrid varieties pushed flavor in new directions, and how competition sharpened both his palate and his business instincts.We also get into• The evolution of Filipino coffee production• Why local storytelling matters more than ever• How competition fuels innovation• Regenerative farming techniques changing coffee at origin• The thinking behind the Better Vessel and improving espresso consistencyMichael has represented the Philippines on the world stage, reaching two World Barista Championship semi-finals and earning Best Espresso in the first round of the 2026 WBC using the Better Vessel.

We sit down with 2024 World Barista Champion Mikael Jasin and writer Tigger Chaturabul to talk about Mikael’s first book, Bloom.The conversation covers how the book came together, why Mikael chose to tell his story now, and what it was like working with a writer to put years of competition, pressure, and personal growth into words. They talk openly about burnout, expectations, money, food, and what life actually looks like behind the scenes of a world title. Bloom isn’t a traditional coffee book. It’s a reflection on process, identity, and learning how to live alongside ambition rather than constantly chasing the next result.If you’re interested in competition coffee, creative work, or the realities that come after winning, this episode offers an honest look at all of it.

Water is the foundation of coffee, but what if it could be optimized far beyond minerals and filtration?In this episode, we sit down with Gary, the founder of Waved, a technology originally developed for the marine industry that is now being used in specialty coffee cafes, processing experiments at origin, and on the World Barista Championship stage.Gary breaks down how ultra low frequency electromagnetic waves interact with water, why top competitors are experimenting with it, and what happens when this technology is applied to espresso, brewing water, milk, juice, and coffee processing.We also talk openly about skepticism, limits, and why research and validation matter just as much as innovation.This conversation explores how ideas from outside coffee are influencing flavor, texture, and shelf life, and what the future of coffee technology could look like from farm to cup.Topics covered• How Waved technology works in simple terms • Why water matters more than most people think • Use in cafes, competitions, and at origin • Flavor, texture, and shelf life changes • Skepticism, validation, and research • The future of technology in coffee

In this episode, Dave sits down with Matt Crowley! One of the most respected minds in specialty coffee to unpack a career that spans barista work, roasting, green coffee buying, and coaching World Barista Champions.Matt shares his full origin story, from hating coffee as a teenager to becoming a head roaster and green buyer at one of Australia’s most influential specialty coffee companies. Along the way, we dive deep into cupping, palate development, roasting philosophy, competition coffees, and the realities of the C market.This conversation is packed with practical insights for • Baristas looking to level up their tasting skills • Roasters refining their roast approach • Anyone curious about becoming a green coffee buyer • Competitors chasing national or world stages

In this episode, we sit down with Jack Simpson, the 2025 World Barista Champion! We explore the full journey behind his rise to the top of competitive coffee.Jack talks about how he first got into specialty coffee, the moment he left his carpentry apprenticeship to chase a new passion, and the long/sometimes difficult road that eventually brought him to the WBC stage. We get into what changed for him mentally and emotionally over the years, how judging and coaching shaped his approach, and what it was like to compete at the highest level three years in a row.We also dig into the training, the preparation, the tools, and the tiny adjustments that helped him keep improving. Jack opens up about the emotional side of competition, the impact of traveling to origin, and how relationships with producers shaped the routine that ultimately won him the title. This is one of the most honest and personal conversations we have had on the podcast, and a look at what it really takes to become World Barista Champion!

Dave and Cole finally catching up after one of the wildest WBC seasons we’ve ever been part of.We break down our six-week training camp in Japan, what it was like coaching Hiroki Ito toward the 2025 World Barista Championship and all the chaos along the way.... language barriers, roasting puzzles, gear challenges, and even a hospital scare just days before the finals in Milan.We also talk about Cole tasting the world’s most expensive coffee!! How it was processed, what it tasted like, and whether it actually lived up to the record-breaking price.From strategy and stress to breakthrough moments and big lessons come follow along!

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Put seven-time Canadian Barista Champion and co-founder of Monogram Coffee , to talk about what it really takes to stay at the top of the game for more than 15 years.We go back to the beginning...when Ben first discovered coffee through a newspaper article on latte art, long before competition stages and national titles. From those early experiments to building Monogram from a 400-square-foot pop-up into one of Canada’s most respected coffee brands, Ben shares the lessons, challenges, and philosophies that shaped his journey.We also dive deep into his role roasting for Best of Panama, how his approach to competition has evolved, and why he believes the future of barista championships depends on creativity, mentorship, and pushing coffee culture forward.It’s a conversation about craft, competition, and what keeps one of coffee’s most consistent champions inspired year after year.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Buy The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Cole sits down with Tamiru Tadesse founder of Alo Coffee, to trace his remarkable path from studying electrical engineering to becoming one of Ethiopia’s most influential coffee producers. Tamiru recently made global headlines by hosting Alo Coffee’s first-ever auction, where he shattered records with a historic $1,739 per kilo sale and an average price of $625 per kilo setting a new benchmark for Ethiopian coffee on the world stage.Tamiru shares...- His path into coffee and the origins of Alo Coffee- How Ethiopia moved beyond the commodity exchange system- The challenges and triumphs of running an international auction- Why altitude and variety matter for quality- His vision for the future of Ethiopian coffee and "luxury coffee"📌 Connect with Alo Coffee: alo-coffee.com👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe

we sit down with Juan Diaz — Director of Nowhere Coffee based in Medellín, Colombia to unpack his incredible journey into the world of specialty coffee.Juan went from being a nursing student and line cook in Gainesville, Florida, to building a global coffee sourcing network that connects roasters, producers, and baristas across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. We dive into...☕ How a chance encounter at a coffee cupping changed his life🌎 The evolution of Nowhere Coffee from a Gainesville cafe to a worldwide sourcing powerhouse💡 Why his “no-bullshit” approach to coffee sourcing sets him apart🤝 The real meaning of direct trade, transparency, and working with “quality people”🏍️ His passion for motorcycles, travel, and how that ties into his coffee journey🏆 Lessons from competing on the national barista stage in both the U.S. and ColombiaIf you’re a coffee professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or just curious about what it takes to change the game in specialty coffee, this conversation is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Today on Buy The Drip, we sit down with Pete Licata, 2013 World Barista Champion, consultant, and now co-founder of Caffeine Control Coffee.Pete’s story is one of reinvention. We explore how winning the World Barista Championship catapulted him into the global coffee spotlight, reshaping his career and opening doors into consulting, entrepreneurship, and now innovation. His latest project, Caffeine Control Coffee, tackles a challenge almost every coffee drinker faces: how to enjoy coffee without overdoing caffeine.In this episode, Pete shares how his personal experiences with caffeine inspired the launch of a brand blending decaf and regular coffee for a more balanced daily brew. Beyond the product, it’s a conversation about how competition, curiosity, and hard lessons can fuel entirely new ways of thinking about coffee.

What does it really take to bring the world’s best coffee from farm to cup?In this episode, Cole Torode shares his experience living and working in Panama for six months... cupping over 2,000 coffees, navigating government red tape, and seeing firsthand the struggles and triumphs of coffee producers.From the challenges of sourcing rare geishas, to why the global market still undervalues specialty coffee, Cole pulls back the curtain on an industry that most of us only experience at the cafe.

In this episode, we sit down with Luke Waite a coffee consultant who’s been through it all. From brewing in a back-alley café chasing Michelin-star standards, to running operations at top roasters, to helping cafés and roasteries figure out the brutal truth of profitabilityLuke shares the stories, struggles, and strategies behind building a coffee business that lasts. Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTINGElevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee

Morgan Eckroth coffee journey started at sixteen with a simple mocha in Corvallis, Oregon and has taken them all the way to becoming the 2022 U.S. Barista Champion and placing second in the World Barista Championship. With 8.7 million followers across social media, Morgan has built a global community through what they calls “digital hospitality” creating moments of connection both online and behind the bar.In this episode of Buy the Drip, we talk about..☕ How Morgan went from barista to world-class competitor📱 Building a massive social media presence around coffee🏆 The intense preparation for U.S. and World Barista Championships💡 The meaning of hospitality in both physical and digital spaces📖 The upcoming coffee book and signature beverage creationsWhether you’re a barista, a coffee lover, content creator or a fan of inspiring career stories, this conversation is full of insight, humour, and behind-the-scenes moments from one of coffee’s most recognized voices.

Tyler Hagan didn’t get into coffee to go viral. He followed curiosity, stayed consistent, and turned storytelling into influence.What started as a personal passion of brewing, experimenting, and sharing his journey online became something bigger. Now Tyler has built a reputation as one of specialty coffee’s go-to content creators, trusted for his storytelling and perspective.In this episode we explore the mindset behind his content, the challenge of staying original, and what it takes to build a voice in an industry that’s still figuring out what to do with creators.This one is about curiosity, storytelling, and building trust one post at a time.Follow Tyler on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/commonlycoffeeRead his bloghttps://commonlycoffee.com

Most people don’t start roasting coffee at 18 and end up building one of the biggest green coffee import companies in Canada.But Jeff Fleming did.In this episode Jeff breaks down how he went from barista, to roaster, to running Apex Coffee Importers without outside funding, without a roadmap, and without cutting corners.Here’s what we get into:• What specialty coffee looked like in the ‘90s and how it’s changed• Why he walked away from a stable job to go all-in on importing• The ugly side of green buying: cash flow, gatekeeping, and pricing politics• How he turned a gap in the Canadian market into a thriving business• The real cost of starting from zero and the mindset it takes to keep goingNo fluff. No theory. Just real stories from someone who built it brick by brick.Whether you’re a roaster, a founder, or just obsessed with coffee this is one worth studying.

What does it take to turn a family farm into one of the most legendary names in specialty coffee?In this episode, Cole sits down with Wilford Lamastus of Lamastus Family Estates fourth-generation producer and the force behind Panama’s iconic Elida Estate. From surviving the coffee crisis of the '90s to putting Geisha on the global map, this is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and legacy.We talk 100+ years of history, the hard choices behind world class coffee, and how one mountain in Boquete became a benchmark for the entire industry.Tune in. This one’s special....

What do you get when two adventurers get tired of bad trail coffee?A new coffee category...called No Normal CoffeeAlexander and Philipp created a first-of-its-kind coffee paste in a tube...designed for explorers, built through grit. In this episode, they share how a love for the outdoors turned into a physical product, how they hacked R&D, launched with crowdfunding, and built a brand that’s redefining convenience in specialty coffee.You’ll hear how they:Battled through R&D setbacks with no guarantee it would workUsed crowdfunding to prove demand and fuel their launchScaled production from idea to reality without losing their soulBuilt a brand that stands out in a crowded coffee marketThis isn’t your average origin story. It’s a look at how innovation, grit, and community can reshape how we think about coffee when and where we drink it.Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe

What happens when a design student accidentally becomes a barista and ends up changing the global coffee game?In this episode, we sit down with 2012 World Barista Champion from Guatemala, to unpack his wild journey: from his first training shift to going rogue on the WBC stage with Intelligentsia coffee and making James Hoffmann laugh in the process.But this isn’t just about competition...We get into the real stuff:→ What it actually means to represent an origin country→ The hard challenges of coffee sourcing in Guatemala→ Labor shortages, pricing pressure, and global market chaos→ How innovation in processing is changing what’s possibleRaul gets real about purpose, identity, and what it takes to survive and lead in the coffee industry.This is the untold story of hustle, heartbreak, and how a single cup can change a life!👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe

we sit down with Laila Ghambari, a barista-turned-champion-turned-consultant whose journey through coffee competitions, family business, and specialty retail offers a masterclass in what it takes to build a sustainable coffee career and cafe.Laila shares how growing up in her dad’s Seattle cafe laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to coffee and how she transformed that passion into a high-impact consulting business. We talk about the mindset shift that led her to win the U.S. Barista Championship, what many cafe owners get wrong about profitability, and the unseen challenges of scaling coffee businesses.Whether you’re a cafe owner, aspiring competitor, or just coffee-obsessed, this episode is full of grounded insights and real talk about what it takes to survive and thrive in the coffee industry👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTINGElevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ Listen to the PODCASTCoffee and business insights:Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBECatch all our videos: @buythedrip.coffee📸 Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: www.instagram.com/crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: www.instagram.com/torodeo

We sit down with one of the most influential figures in specialty coffee with Rachel Peterson of Hacienda La Esmeralda.Known globally for introducing Geisha to the world, Rachel shares the full story behind how their farm transformed the coffee industry, winning Best of Panama three times in one year a historic first!We talk about:How Geisha was first discovered and introducedThe rise of Best of Panama and record-breaking auctionsGenetics, varietals, and the evolution of Esmeralda’s portfolioFamily business dynamics and the legacy of qualityThe real business of producing the world’s most celebrated coffeesWhether youre a barista, roaster, green buyer, or a specialty coffee fan this conversation is a masterclass in coffee history, strategy, and flavor!👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTINGElevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ Listen to the PODCASTCoffee and business insights:Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBECatch all our videos: @buythedrip.coffee📸 Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: www.instagram.com/crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: www.instagram.com/torodeo

Christine Rollings has built coffee businesses in the Philippines and Turkey, traveled the world, and turned her love for coffee into a beautifully self-published children’s book My ABCs of Coffee.It also happens to be the first book Cole has read in the last two years. Don’t worry...it’s perfect for all reading levels.In this episode, Christine shares her entrepreneurial journey from navigating local laws as a foreign business owner to selling over 1,000 copies of a kids book about coffee!We cover-Building -a lean coffee startup in Manila-Starting -a roastery in Turkey during the pandemic-Selling two businesses before returning to Canada-The behind-the-scenes process of writing and printing a kids book-What it’s like to sell books into cafes, not bookstores-Competing in her first AeroPress competition!-Christine's next big creative project📚 Grab her book: https://christinerollings.com📬 Follow Christine: @christinerollings on Instagram👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTINGElevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ Listen to the PODCASTCoffee and business insights:Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBECatch all our videos: @buythedrip.coffee📸 Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: www.instagram.com/crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: www.instagram.com/torodeo

Meet Mike and Jamie....two firefighters turned founders of Canadian Heritage Roasting Company. What started as cowboy coffee brewed on the fireline became a mission-driven coffee company now found in over 1,400 stores across North America.In this episode of Buy The Drip, they share their story of building a bold brand rooted in a love for the outdoors, wildlife conservation, and great-tasting coffee.We dive into...-The early days of making coffee in the backcountry-How firelines, hunting, and grizzly encounters shaped their approach-Scaling a national brand without losing their rugged identity-Their mission to fuel outdoor pursuits and rewild the great outdoors...one tree at a time!!What’s next: instant adventures, lifestyle gear, and a million-tree goal!If you love stories about grit, nature, and building something meaningful this one’s for you...👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Guess The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week...https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTING Elevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ Listen to the PODCASTCoffee and business insights: Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBECatch all our videos: @buythedrip.coffee📸 Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: www.instagram.com/crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: www.instagram.com/torodeo

Join Cole on this episode of Buy The Drip as he chats with Jordan Saglio, the man behind Movement Coffee Roasters. What began as an unexpected adventure living the van life with his wife and daughter — led Jordan into the world of coffee roasting. From building a roastery in Stowe, Vermont, to competing in Panama's Brewers Cup, Jordan shares how his journey unfolded. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building a coffee business, embracing the unexpected, and creating a meaningful connection with coffee.Don’t forget to check out Jordan’s roastery at Movement Coffee Roasters and follow his travels on The Nomadic Movement on YouTube.Subscribe to Buy The Drip for more inspiring coffee stories!#coffee #specialtycoffee #nomadicmovement #coffeeentrepreneur #BrewersCup #panamacoffee #coffeeroasting #podcast

This week on Buy The Drip, we’re joined by Jill Hoff Canada’s first female Barista Champion and Director of Coffee & Education at Monogram Coffee.Jill’s story is one of grit, growth, and relentless curiosity. From her early days on bar to leading one of Canada’s most respected coffee programs, she’s built a powerful career in specialty coffee and she’s done it while lifting others along the way.In this episode, we dive into:-How she built a meaningful career in coffee through education, competition, and connection-The behind-the-scenes grind of training barista champions-Her approach to green buying and forming long-term relationships with producers-What mentorship in coffee looks like when it’s done right-Why building a career in coffee takes both intention and love for the craftWhether you’re a barista, trainer, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with wisdom from one of the industry’s most respected voices.Press play—this one’s for anyone dreaming of a lasting career in coffee.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes of Buy The Drip!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLY: https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions — we’d love to roast for you too: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTING: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ PODCAST Coffee and business insights: Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBE: @buythedrip.coffeeFollow us on INSTAGRAM: @buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: @crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: @torodeo

Max Boegler, co-founder of Sovda, went from discovering coffee while living in China to launching one of the most talked-about coffee tech companies in the world. In this episode, Max shares how Sovda is building tools like The Pearl to help producers and roasters improve quality, consistency, and efficiency without losing sight of the values that define specialty coffee.We cover a lot in this conversation:-How Max’s journey into coffee began with curiosity and hustle in 2017-The early days of Sovda and how crowdfunding helped launch their first machine-Why color sorting still underused in roasting is becoming a game-changer-How Sovda is addressing a 145% U.S. tariff while expanding into markets like Australia, Korea, and Japan-The tension between tech and ethics in specialty coffee: is post-roast sorting “cheating,” or just smart QC?-What it means to grow a coffee business that serves both sides of the value chain from farm to final cupThis episode is for anyone navigating the intersection of craft, tech, and business in coffee. Whether you’re building a roastery, sourcing green, or obsessed with quality. Max brings insight, honesty, and a refreshing perspective on what it takes to push the industry forward.#buythedrip #Sovda #CoffeeTechnology #SpecialtyCoffee #CoffeeSorting #CoffeeInnovation #CoffeeBusiness #MaxBoegler #CoffeeRoasterTools #RoasterLife

In this episode of Buy The Drip, we sit down with John Gordon! Barista champion, roaster, engineer, and consultant to talk about his unexpected path from the security industry into the heart of specialty coffee.John shares his early days learning hospitality from the ground up in Melbourne, the pivotal moment that sparked his coffee passion, and how a fear of public speaking led him to barista competitions including multiple appearances on the World Barista Championship stage. We unpack his transformative time at Square Mile Coffee, his philosophy on quality control, and the evolution of coffee technology and culture over the past two decades.John also opens up about:Why finding your niche in coffee is hard—but worth it...The power of collaboration and community in building a meaningful careerHis vision for a creativity-focused coffee spaceThe importance of business acumen in today’s industryAnd how passions like art and engineering fuel his curiosity outside of coffeeWhether you’re behind the bar, in the cupping lab, or running your own coffee business, John brings a refreshing honesty and depth to this conversation.

Dave sits down with Cole Torode to unpack the exciting relaunch of Forward Coffee—now based exclusively in Panama. Cole shares the story behind Forward 2.0, a bold new business model built around quality, freshness, and strong producer relationships.We dive deep into:🔹 The decision to focus solely on Panama as a sourcing origin🔹 Why freshly milled coffee is a game-changer for flavor and consistency🔹 How shortening cash flow cycles supports producers and sustainability🔹 The hidden costs buyers often miss—and how Forward is helping reduce them🔹 Cole’s approach to logistics and transparency to save buyers time and money🔹 The challenges and costs of sampling, and why better quality control mattersThis episode is packed with insights into the coffee supply chain, from origin to cup—plus, Cole shares the community’s overwhelmingly positive response to the new model.Whether you're a green buyer, a roaster, or just passionate about specialty coffee, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of what it really takes to build a better, more sustainable sourcing model.Tune in and get a first look at the future of Forward Coffee.📍 Watch now & subscribe! .#BuyTheDrip #ForwardCoffee #ColeTorode #SpecialtyCoffee #CoffeeSourcing #PanamaCoffee #CoffeeIndustry #GreenCoffee #CoffeeInnovation #CoffeeBusiness

Coffee, Innovation & Entrepreneurship w/ Kirk Pearson ☕In this episode of Buy The Drip, we sit down with Kirk Pearson, founder of Project Zero Coffee, to talk about his journey in coffee—from washing dishes at a café to building a brand focused on quality, sustainability, and innovation.We dive into:The role of milk and alternative milk in specialty coffeeThe challenges of sustainability in dairy and plant-based optionsHow COVID-19 impacted his business—and how he bounced backKirk's vision for instant coffee, media in coffee, and the future of the industryThe power of community and coffee culture in driving changeBut beyond the coffee talk, this episode is a heartfelt story of following Kirk's dream of opening a coffee shop. Kirk’s passion for great coffee and meaningful connections led him to create Project Zero Coffee, a space dedicated to quality, innovation, and community.Plus, Kirk shares some big updates on the It's Just Coffee podcast and breaks some news about its future.🔥 Hit play and tune in now!📍 Watch now & subscribe!#BuyTheDrip #CoffeeIndustry #SpecialtyCoffee #Entrepreneurship #CoffeeInnovation #ProjectZeroCoffee #CoffeeCulture

What does it take to leave a stable career in finance to chase a passion for coffee?In this episode ofBuy The Drip, hostsCole and Dave sit down withJay Kim, founder ofUFO Drippers, to unpack his bold transition into the specialty coffee world.Jay shares how his love for coffee grew through personal tasting sessions and a desire to connect with others. He takes us behind the scenes of launchingUFO Drippers, revealing the challenges of manufacturing, developing specialized filters, and navigating the highs and lows of starting a coffee business.Beyond the technical side, this conversation dives intothe power of personal branding, education, and hospitality in coffee—proving that great coffee is more than just a drink, it’s about creating meaningful experiences.Don’t miss this deep dive into coffee entrepreneurship!

What does 2025 have in store for the coffee industry?In this episode, Dave shares his bold predictions for the future of specialty coffee while Cole offers his perspective and insights.From the rise of grab-and-go coffee shops to the transformative role of AI in quality control, Dave outlines his vision for the year ahead. Will home brewing become the new norm? Will coffee blends reclaim their place in the spotlight? And how will hybrid coffee shops reshape the way we experience coffee? These are just a few of the questions they dive into.Dave’s predictions for 2025 include:Green coffee prices are expected to decline due to better growing conditions and economic factors.AI will revolutionize coffee quality control, optimizing processes and reducing waste.Grab-and-go coffee shops will dominate, focusing on speed and convenience.Home brewing will continue its rise, fueled by influencers and affordable high-quality equipment.Coffee blends are making a comeback, both on cafe menus and in competitions.Hybrid coffee shops will evolve into multifunctional spaces for work, connection, and creativity.Inclusivity in coffee competitions will expand, opening doors for more diverse participation.Way more Buy The Drip content to be created!Are Dave’s predictions grounded in reality or overly ambitious? Tune in to find out and decide for yourself!💌 Join a Global Audience with BUY THE DRIP WEEKLYGet our personal coffee insights, brewing tips, and behind-the-scenes content delivered straight to your inbox every week: https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe☕ ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS, since 2007Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you. We roasted for the last two World Barista Champions and would love to roast a coffee for you too – try our world-class coffees: www.rossocoffeeroasters.com🎓 COACHING & CONSULTINGElevate your coffee game or business with personalized coaching and consulting: www.buythedrip.coffee🎙️ Listen to the PODCASTCoffee and business insights:Apple | Spotify📺 Subscribe on YOUTUBECatch all our videos: @buythedrip.coffee📸 Follow us on INSTAGRAMStay updated with the latest: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeFollow Dave: www.instagram.com/crosbyandcoffeeFollow Cole: www.instagram.com/torodeo

What does 2025 have in store for the coffee industry? In this episode, Cole shares his bold predictions for the future of specialty coffee while Dave offers a dose of skepticism. Known for relying on intuition over hard facts, Cole’s forecasts spark curiosity (and some good-natured teasing) as they explore what might be next for coffee.From the rise of decaf to Canada’s shot at a World Coffee Championship title, Cole outlines his vision for the year ahead. Will Cezve brewing finally have its moment? Will cozy, community-focused cafes make a comeback? And how will sustainability, education, and authenticity shape the industry? These are just a few of the questions they dive into.Cole’s predictions for 2025 include:1. Decaf coffee continues gaining traction and appreciation.2. Innovations in packaging improve shelf life and sustainability.3. See Above??4. Canada has a real shot at a World Coffee Championship.5. Cezve brewing steps into the spotlight.6. Cafes shift toward cozy, community-focused designs.7. Signature beverages become central to cafe menus.8. Baristas focus on coffees that authentically represent them.9. Geisha coffee becomes more mainstream, with engineered coffees used as educational tools.Are Cole’s predictions visionary or overly optimistic? Tune in to find out and decide for yourself!

Join us as we reflect on an unforgettable year in the coffee industry. In this episode, Dave and Cole dive into 2024’s biggest coffee industry moments, packed with insights, predictions, and plenty of laughs. We also share highlights from our journey coaching world-class baristas at the World Barista Championship, the release of The Flower Story documentary, and exciting milestones for Buy The Drip, including our growing podcast and YouTube channel.Topics covered include:Coffee prices reaching record highs: What it means for producers, roasters, and consumers.The European Union’s deforestation regulation (EUDR) and its impact on the coffee supply chain.The staying power of alternative milks in specialty coffee.Innovations in coffee processing methods and their influence on the industry.Behind-the-scenes insights into coaching barista champions and creating a coffee documentary.

Listen to Paul Ross, founder of Special Guests Coffee in London, as he shares how he’s transforming competition-level coffees into something everyone can experience—all while staying grounded in hospitality and community.Paul takes us through:-His journey from university student to café owner.-The art and logistics of managing a menu with 16 unique coffees.-The philosophy behind building a café that celebrates both baristas and customers.-Coaching world-class coffee competitors and why it matters to the industry.-Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship, travel, and life.Paul’s approach to coffee is refreshing and authentic, blending big ideas with a commitment to human connection.Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join us as we continue exploring the people and ideas shaping the coffee industry.📍 Follow Paul Ross and Special Guests Coffee:Instagram: Special Guests CoffeeInstagram: Paul Ross#BuyTheDrip #SpecialtyCoffee #CoffeePodcast #CoffeeCulture #InspiringStories #Hospitality

In this milestone episode of Buy the Drip, we’re celebrating reaching 5,000 YouTube subscribers! Join us as we dive into an engaging Q&A session, where we answer questions from our amazing audience.We discuss everything from our journey as brothers and the story behind the podcast name, to our personal coffee preferences and future plans for Rosso Coffee Roasters. Along the way, we share light-hearted moments with fun "would you rather" questions and reflect on our favorite travel experiences.This episode also delves deep into the coffee industry, touching on topics like authenticity in product labeling, the evolution of coffee competitions, and the importance of transparency in coffee sourcing. We explore how automation is shaping the coffee trade, the role of coaching for baristas, and the need for community support to drive the industry forward.We want to take a moment to thank all of you for being part of this journey and helping us build Buy the Drip into what it is today. Your support, engagement, and passion for coffee fuel us to keep growing and creating meaningful content.

In Episode 34 of Buy The Drip, we’re joined by Tim Williams, Director of the World AeroPress Championship and founder of Fieldwork Coffee in Melbourne, Australia. From his humble beginnings in coffee at a bratwurst stall in Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market to managing iconic specialty coffee spaces like Penny University and Intelligentsia Venice, Tim shares a fascinating journey through the coffee industry.We explore: Tim’s early days in Melbourne’s coffee culture and his transition to the UK specialty coffee scene. The rise of the World AeroPress Championship—from a grassroots event in Oslo to a global coffee competition featuring 5,500 competitors across 64 countries. How the AeroPress format stays accessible, fun, and focused purely on coffee quality. The creative side of the competition, including the iconic poster designs and themed events. Fieldwork Coffee’s philosophy of focusing exclusively on washed coffees and staying true to their unique vision amidst a sea of trends.Tim also shares insights into his creative partnership with Grant Gamble, the challenges of balancing operational efficiency with creativity, and what’s next for both the World AeroPress Championship and Fieldwork Coffee.

We start by diving into the release of our new documentary, The Flower Story, which chronicles Miki’s journey and highlights the incredible baristas we had the honor of coaching. Miki reflects on the emotional moments the documentary brought back and what it means to share his story with the world.In this episode, Miki unpacks the deeper messages behind his award-winning presentation, revealing how mindfulness and directive affirmations have been critical to his success. He opens up about the challenges of competition, the importance of teamwork, and the transformative lessons he learned about vulnerability and embracing support from others.Gain a rare glimpse into the mindset of a champion as Miki shares his practices for staying grounded, overcoming self-doubt, and maintaining balance amid a hectic schedule. From managing whirlwind travel to savoring life’s simple pleasures—like stopping to enjoy a sunset—Miki’s story is an inspiring reminder of the power of presence.#WorldBaristaChampion #TheFlowerStory #CoffeeCommunity #BuyTheDrip #CoffeePodcast

We sit down with the legendary Mike Strumpf from Swiss Water Decaf. Mike shares his fascinating journey into the world of specialty coffee, from his start in Madison, Wisconsin, to becoming a key figure in coffee competitions worldwide as a WCE rep and head judge. We dive into the evolution of coffee competitions, the unique process behind Swiss Water’s decaf, and why decaf coffee deserves a spot on the top shelf.Mike also opens up in an incredibly touching moment about his personal health journey and the lessons it’s taught him about resilience, community, and appreciating the little things. TakeawaysThe Value of Decaf Coffee: Mike explains why decaf coffee deserves respect and how it supports coffee farmers and the industry as a whole.The Evolution of Coffee Competitions: From technical rules to scoring changes, Mike gives an inside look into how competitions have shifted over the past two decades.The Importance of Familiarity in Competition: Mike’s advice on using coffee you know well in competitions to manage variables and ensure consistency.Judging as a Growth Experience: Mike highlights how judging offers a unique perspective on coffee, helping judges become better coffee evaluators and even inspiring competitors.Resilience in the Face of Health Challenges: In a deeply personal moment, Mike opens up about his health journey and how it’s reshaped his approach to life, community, and self-care.

We dive into the world of sensory-driven coffee design with Hany Ezzat, founder of Ni Wares. Hanny shares his journey from his early days making coffee in a Turkish restaurant to the inception of Ni Wares, his company dedicated to designing cups that elevate the sensory experience of coffee drinking. With insights from years as a competitive barista, Hany explains how colors, shapes, and textures of cups can alter our perception of taste, transforming how we experience every sip.Throughout our conversation, Hany offers valuable insights for those entering the competitive coffee scene, stressing commitment, simplicity, and personal accountability as keys to success. He opens up about his belief in personal responsibility and the importance of focusing on one’s journey in the industry. Beyond competitions and coffee sales, Hanny’s focus shifted to innovation and craftsmanship, leading him to create coffee cups that make drinking an immersive experience. He also sheds light on how inspiration from other industries influences his designs and shares his work on a sustainable coffee cultivation project in Fiji.Key Takeaways:Design for Taste: Ni Wares cups are crafted to influence the perception of flavors through colors, shapes, and textures.Competitive Influence: Hany’s background as a competitive barista instilled a deep understanding of simplicity, accountability, and connection, values he brings into his designs.Craftsmanship and Collaboration: Working with local artisans, Ni Wares cups are created to enhance the sensory experience, making every cup unique.Inspired by Other Industries: Hany draws from diverse influences to keep his designs innovative and grounded in craftsmanship.Sustainable Vision: With untapped potential in Fiji, Hany emphasizes community involvement as he embarks on sustainable coffee projects.Explore Hany’s dedication to coffee and sensory innovation with Ni Wares, where artistry meets function in every cup.

In this episode of Buy The Drip, Juan Pablo Campos from Lojas Coffee dives deep into the cutting-edge processing techniques that are revolutionizing the coffee industry. From thermal shock to innovative fermentation methods, Juan Pablo shares how these advancements are shaping coffee flavors and elevating the quality of specialty coffee. He also sheds light on the recent controversies surrounding the Best of Panama and its open letter to Colombian coffee producers, addressing industry debates on standards and transparency.Juan Pablo’s journey from organic to specialty coffee highlights the importance of education, market dynamics, and building long-term relationships with producers. He emphasizes how techniques like microlots and precise harvest timing are key to ensuring better pricing and quality, while also exploring the rise of championship farms in Colombia and the challenges posed by market fluctuations. This conversation offers a unique look at the balance between terroir and processing and the role human intervention plays in creating exceptional coffee profiles.Takeaways:Thermal shock and fermentation techniques are vital for developing unique coffee flavors.The Best of Panama controversy highlights tensions between coffee-producing regions.Lojas Coffee transitioned from organic to specialty coffee.Microlots ensure better pricing for producers and focus on quality.Market fluctuations impact certified and regional coffee sales.Championship farms are gaining recognition in coffee competitions.Education and innovation are key to understanding and improving coffee quality.Infused coffees raise debates on coffee complexity and processing standards.Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the world of specialty coffee!

In this compelling episode of Buy the Drip, hosts David Crosby and Cole Torode dig into the real reasons behind the closure of Forward Coffee. They explore the highs and lows of running a green coffee importing business, from the struggles of cash flow to the complexities of direct trade and the often misunderstood pricing pyramid. Cole reflects on the critical role relationships play in sourcing high-quality coffee and how transparency can both help and hinder business operations.Listeners will hear about some of Forward’s proudest achievements, including hitting revenue milestones and the unique marketing impact of the Forward Lottery. Cole also shares the heartfelt reactions from clients and team members when the decision was made to close the company.Cole reveals what’s next for him and hints at the future of Forward Coffee, with plans to return to the coffee industry in an exciting new capacity. If you're curious about the behind-the-scenes challenges of the coffee business and what's next, this episode offers valuable insights.

Listen to the inspiring Elysia Tan, a three-time Singaporean Brewers Cup champion and co-founder of Home Ground Coffee Roasters, as she explores how she’s transforming the home brewing scene in Singapore. Elysia opens up about her journey into the coffee world, her passion for creating a welcoming space for coffee lovers, and how education is key to building an engaged community of home brewers. The conversation dives deep into the challenges of coffee competitions, where Elysia emphasizes that success is often shaped by preparation, not just the results.Tune in for insights on the expanding specialty coffee market, the comforting and evolving process of home brewing, and why being authentic and trusting oneself are essential in the competitive landscape. Elysia also shares her future plans for growing Home Ground Coffee Roasters e-commerce business and reminds us of the importance of enjoying the process while pursuing long-term success in coffee.

In this episode of Buy The Drip, host David Crosby and co-host Cole Torode welcome Nelson Phu, the 2024 Canadian Barista Champion, to share his inspiring journey into specialty coffee. Nelson opens up about his path from Rosso Coffee Roasters in 2015 to becoming a national champion, the intense world of barista competitions, and the surprising parallels between coffee and fine dining. The trio explores the critical role of storytelling in coffee, how competitions challenge baristas beyond just making great coffee, and the importance of community in the evolving coffee industry.Nelson provides valuable insights into how fine dining informs coffee service, the importance of practicing routines for competition success, and trusting the process. He also emphasizes personal growth, innovation, and sharing knowledge as essential for the future of coffee. The episode wraps up with Nelson's ambitions for the World Barista Championship and his vision for pushing the coffee industry forward.Support the Pod:Join a Global audience at BUY THE DRIP WEEKLY: ⁠https://buythedrip.beehiiv.com/subscribe⁠ROSSO COFFEE ROASTERS: Anyone can be a specialty coffee drinker, and that means you.Listen to the PODCAST: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4vnytSW...⁠Subscribe on YOUTUBE: / @buythedrip.coffeeFollow us on INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/buythedrip.coffeeRead our EMAIL NEWSLETTER: buythedrip.beehiiv.com/