Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network

Takeaways Entering retail can make or break your business.FOMO should not be the reason to enter retail.Retail can distract from core competencies.Creative alternatives to retail.Engaging with the community is crucial for success.Staffing is a major challenge in retail.A merchant's heart is essential for retail success.Understanding the costs of retail is vital.Food can bleed money in retail.The best cafes have a narrow focus.Retail is incredibly competitive today.Have a clear concept and plan.Don't leave any stone unturned in planning.Never do a handshake deal for business agreements.Streamlined operations lead to better profitability.Experience in retail is crucial for roasters.     Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

 Takeaways Joe's journey into coffee began unexpectedly through his work in the portable toilet business.He discovered the difference in quality between mass-produced coffee and artisanal coffee.The Coffee House Finder website aims to be a positive platform for coffee lovers to share their favorite shops.They believe coffee reviews should be positive and community-driven.The subjective nature of coffee means everyone has different preferences and tastes.Networking at the World of Coffee show revealed the passion of coffee producers.Joe's favorite coffee shop is Steady State in Carlsbad Village.The excitement of meeting other coffee enthusiasts at the show was a highlight for both Joe and Jill.They aim to create a community where coffee lovers can connect and share their experiences.     Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

 Takeaways Coffee is a heavily fertilized product.Fertilizer is essential for coffee quality and yield.Global supply chain issues are impacting fertilizer availability.Brazil relies on imports for 85% of its fertilizer needs.Fertilizer prices have significantly increased recently.The war in Ukraine affects global fertilizer supply.Long-term impacts on coffee production could be severe.Market trends may not yet reflect these supply chain issues.Farmers face tough choices regarding fertilizer use.The coffee industry must consider agricultural dependencies.       Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

 Some Takeaways Do you want to be a coffee roaster?If you want to be a coffee roaster, do not start your own coffee roastery.You have to like the idea of manufacturing something.You have to be somebody who's pretty handy.A home roaster is not the same as a commercial roaster.Learning the machine is crucial for success in roasting.Rushing into starting a coffee business can lead to mistakes.Creativity is essential in finding ways to sell coffee.Apprenticeship is a valuable path in the coffee industry.Fire safety is a critical concern in coffee roasting.Roasting coffee is a fulfilling and enjoyable craft.Opportunities in coffee roasting can be regionally specific.       Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Among other things, the conversation includes:  Liesa's job at Covoya.  A Throwdown in Bristol.  Market Machinations.  A little Starbucks and Peets history.  Rob's dad jokes.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Angela and Brit share stories about some of the Cafe Delas producers they have met.     Cafe DelasPart of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Topics Include Suez Canal Currency fluctuations, especially the Brazilian real and US dollarBrazilian domestic policy and its effect on coffee exportsMarket volatility driven by geopolitical and logistical factorsTariff refundsPart of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Chapters 01:22 Rob's Morning Coffee and Brain Activation Routine 02:11 First Data Source: Market Screen and Live Feed 03:16 Using Charts for Market Sentiment and Direction 04:45 Monitoring Overnight Market Changes and Pending Grading 05:50 Reading the Crop Report and COT Data for Market Sentiment 06:06 Email and News Digest as Market Indicators 07:06 Skimming Reports and Managing Information Overload 08:21 Using Alerts and External News for Market Fundamentals 09:15 The Value of Bloomberg and Objective Reporting 10:20 Talking to Peers for Perspective and Avoiding Echo Chambers 11:23 Current Events: Tariffs and Legal Decisions Impacting Trade 12:46 Market Outlook: Supply, Demand, and Price Trends 14:25 Brazil Crop Outlook and Producer Strategies 15:08 Market Volatility and Future Contract Expectations 16:11 Upcoming Live Podcast Event in San Diego   Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysSpecialty coffee is a highly differentiated product.Consumer preferences significantly influence coffee marketing strategies.Words like 'rich' and 'smooth' resonate with coffee drinkers.Flavor notes serve a practical purpose in the coffee buying process.The NCA survey provides valuable insights into consumer behavior.Coffee drinkers may not align with industry-specific flavor descriptors.A balance of vague and specific terms can attract a wider audience.Sweet notes should be prioritized in flavor descriptions.Understanding consumer perspectives is crucial for effective marketing.Coffee tasting language should evolve to meet consumer needs.The Written Blog   Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Takeaways2025 was a challenging year for the coffee industry.Market volatility led to unprecedented price fluctuations.Tariffs significantly impacted coffee imports and pricing.Small roasters faced immense pressure due to high costs.Unionization efforts are gaining traction in the coffee sector.Women in coffee are making significant strides in leadership roles.The specialty coffee market is evolving with consumer preferences.The importance of supporting smallholder producers is critical.Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysFebruary is the busiest month for coffee buyers.Current market prices are experiencing a steep decline.The gap between current and future coffee prices is narrowing.Brazil's coffee crop forecast looks promising this year.Coffee stocks are slowly increasing, but still below optimal levels.Brazil's coffee consumption fell by 2.5% last year.No significant news from the White House meeting is a positive sign.Market dynamics can change rapidly, impacting prices.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysBlending aims to create a coffee better than its individual components.Creating iconic blends is essential for brand identity.Marketing cannot compensate for poor blending practices.Consistency in blends fosters customer loyalty.Simplicity in coffee offerings can be more effective than complexity.Managing a limited number of offerings can enhance brand focus.Blending for price point is a critical consideration for roasters.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

 Geletka Plus, Covoya's Creative AgencyPart of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Takeaways2025 was marked by unprecedented challenges in the coffee industry.Tariffs significantly impacted the cost structure for importers and roasters.The inverted market created disincentives to hold inventory.Financial strain affected even the largest players in the coffee sector.Current market trends indicate a potential recovery with more coffee availability.Adaptability and quick reactions are crucial for survival in the coffee business.New Year's resolutions should focus on improving accounts receivable management.Understanding market dynamics is essential for making informed business decisions.The importance of taking breaks and unplugging from the business was highlighted.The conversation emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptation.   Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysCosta Rica's commercial coffee history dates back to the 1830s.Producers initially struggled to find markets for their coffee.Direct trade routes were established by shipping entrepreneur William Le Lacheur.Costa Rican coffee was often exported through Chile to Europe.The lack of infrastructure hindered coffee distribution in early years.William Le Lacheur played a crucial role in connecting Costa Rican coffee to England.Costa Rican coffee producers were determined to improve their market situation.The legacy of Costa Rican coffee includes advancements in processing technology.Costa Rican coffee was recognized for its quality even before the specialty coffee movement.The determination of coffee producers has shaped the industry's evolution in Costa Rica.Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysCoffee forecasts are essentially opinions based on various data points.Mother nature plays a significant role in coffee production outcomes.Forecasts can vary widely and are often influenced by market sentiment.Understanding the factors behind forecasts is crucial for industry stakeholders.The coffee market is sensitive to changes in production estimates.Export trends from major coffee-producing countries impact global supply.Consumption patterns in countries like Brazil are changing significantly.Forecasts are not static and should be revisited regularly.Market prices are influenced by the balance of supply and demand.The coffee industry relies on a mix of scientific data and anecdotal evidence.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

"The last of the coffee-carrying sailing vessels to reach the United States was the bark Padang, which arrived in New York on Christmas day, 1914." -WH Ukers Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysProcessing is crucial for flavor development in coffee.Historical context shows the evolution of coffee processing methods.Washed and natural processing methods yield different flavor profiles.The rise of semi-washed and honey processes reflects innovation in coffee.Costa Rica has played a pivotal role in coffee processing advancements.Consumer preferences influence the popularity of processing methods.Anaerobic and co-fermented coffees are gaining traction in specialty coffee.Digestive processing.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysDave Zachary is the controller at Covoya Specialty Coffee.Dave enjoys numbers and has a background in business analysis.The team at Covoya embraces challenges together.Memorable moments include moving to a new office and implementing a new ERP system.Team dynamics are lively and collaborative at Covoya.Dave emphasizes the importance of passion in the coffee industry.The culture at Covoya is non-corporate and supportive.  Part of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysRobusta was once considered the enemy of specialty coffee.The stigma against Robusta was deeply emotional and personal.Not all Robusta is of low quality; it varies significantly.Robusta's global production share has increased dramatically.Robusta plays a crucial role in meeting coffee demand.Robusta was first cultivated commercially in the late 19th century.Robusta's reputation has improved due to quality advancements.The rise of instant coffee helped Robusta gain acceptance.Climate change poses a threat to coffee supply.It's time to reconsider Robusta's role in the coffee industry. Written Blog: Life and Times of RobustaPart of The Covoya Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

"All that this report does is tell them, are they long or are they short? If they're long, they are hoping or betting that the prices will go up. And if they're short, they're hoping or betting that the price will go down. And so what we do then is look at these different types of participants in the market and the report tells us if they are long or if they're short. And it tells us if that position has changed from the prior report. Because if a change, a significant change,  like either less long or less short or going from net long to net short, it would be an indication of a change in sentiment. So this segment of the market now believes that prices will go up or this segment of the market now believes that prices will go down. Does that mean they will go up or down? No. It does not. But it's important for you to know and helpful for you to know if the people who basically make their living  looking at the market and have skin in the game."  Commodity Futures Trading CommissionCOT Chart for Coffee from Barchart.comMarket-Bulls.comTradingster.comPart of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysCoffee consumption has remained steady despite rising prices.Many consumers are changing their purchasing behaviors in response to costs.52% of respondents will not change their coffee format even if prices rise.Older coffee drinkers are feeling the financial pinch more than younger ones.The balance of coffee consumed at home versus out of home remains constant.A significant percentage of consumers are switching to less expensive coffee formats.Financial well-being impacts coffee purchasing decisions.The trend of portion control is influencing coffee format choices.Consumer habits are evolving in response to economic conditions.    WRITTEN BLOG This blog is based on information from the National Coffee Association (NCA) National Coffee Data Trends Fall 2025 Report. I provided here a handful of statistics, but it should be noted, I barely scratch the surface of what is available within the report. The full report provides over 100 pages of comprehensive and detailed data on a vast variety of issues important to coffee professionals. I encourage anyone with the means to purchase the full report from the NCA.  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysAlthough it's been announced that reciprocal tariffs on coffee are no longer in effect as of Friday, November 14th at 12:01 am, punitive tariffs, like those being applied to Brazil and India, remain in place for now. So, tariff on Brazilian coffee has gone from 50% to 40%. Refunds from the government are unlikely.There are some positive signs that the punitive tariffs on Brazil might also end but nobody really knows what will happen.The market did not react bearishly to the rollback on coffee tariffs as some might have expected.Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysThe Intercontinental Exchange is analogous to a bank, making money from fees, services, and interest.Only certain countries can tender coffee to the exchange, some at the C price ("at par"), some at a premium, and some at a discount.There are Exchange licensed warehouses in several U.S. cities and four cities in Europe. Some of these warehouse also come at a premium or a discount.Buyers do not get to choose what coffee they will receive when they buy coffee from The Exchange.High prices incentivize coffee being tenders to the exchange to become certified stock.  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

FOR THIS EPISODE TODD MACKEY JOINED MEMBERS OF OUR MEXICO AND CENTRAL AMERICA TEAM IN AN ONLINE CHAT TO TALK ABOUT OUR UPCOMING GROW EVEN IN CHIAPAS, FEBRUARY 23-26. AFTER VERY SUCCESSFUL EVENTS IN COLOMBIA AND GUADEMALA WE ARE VERY EXCITED TO BE HEADING TO MEXICO. YOU SHOULD GO WITH US. Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network   TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY   Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysThe lower the exchange certified stocks go, the more dangerous it is for the liquidity of the market.Liquidity is crucial for the stability of financial markets.Futures contracts require underlying assets to guarantee their value.A futures contract is essentially a promise to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price.Market participants must trust that they can execute futures contracts without issues.The relationship between certified stocks and market liquidity is significant.Understanding futures contracts is essential for navigating financial markets.Market liquidity impacts the overall economy and investor confidence.The dynamics of supply and demand play a critical role in market liquidity.Effective risk management strategies are necessary for dealing with futures contracts. Ice Coffee C Daily StocksPart of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysConsumers are buying more coffee on sale due to rising prices.There's a shift from whole bean to ground coffee to save costs.Tariffs are impacting coffee prices significantly.Coffee consumption remains steady despite economic pressures.Older consumers feel less financially secure than younger ones.Consumers are adapting by brewing coffee at home more often.Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysVolatility is a significant characteristic of the current coffee market.Understanding historical context is crucial for predicting future trends.Weather events have historically influenced coffee market fluctuations.Political factors can also impact coffee supply and pricing.Current challenges include high costs and supply chain issues.Consumer behavior is shifting, especially among lower-income groups.Retail prices are at record highs, affecting demand.Small roasters must focus on quality and customer relationships.Integrity in business practices is essential for long-term success.The coffee market is influenced by both natural and human factors.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysEUDR stands for European Union Deforestation Regulation.Coffee is a significant contributor to deforestation in the EU.Compliance with EUDR requires extensive documentation and traceability.Larger companies are generally more prepared for EUDR compliance.Small producers face greater challenges in meeting compliance requirements.The penalties for non-compliance can be severe for companies.Market dynamics will shift as companies adapt to EUDR regulations.EUDR could disrupt traditional coffee supply chains globally.Technology plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with EUDR.  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Full black defect is likened to 'The Creature from the Black Lagoon'.Sour defect is compared to Stephen King's 'Christine'.Fungus damage is paired with the movie 'Annihilation'.Foreign matter in coffee is humorously linked to 'The Last Werewolf in London'.Insect damage is associated with 'The Fly'.Partial black defect is humorously tied to 'Beetlejuice'.Withered beans are compared to 'The Mummy'.Shell defect is likened to 'The Exorcist'.Parchment defect is humorously linked to 'Children of the Corn'.Floaters are humorously associated with 'Altered States'.Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysThe sold out Roast Summit was the most attended yet.Coffee guilds were seen as the backbone of the coffee community.The intimate feeling of the Roast Summit mirrors that of past guild events.Educational moments at events are crucial for growth in the coffee industry.Community and belonging are essential in the coffee industry.The importance of mentorship opportunities at events like the Roast Summit.The future of coffee events should focus on fostering connections.     Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

00:00 Introduction to Coffee Memo and Current Industry Landscape02:42 Understanding the Unprecedented Volatility in Coffee Prices05:16 The Importance of Engagement and Peer Support08:07 Navigating Burnout and Overwhelm in the Coffee Industry10:42 Market Dynamics: Supply, Demand, and Climate Change13:33 Decision-Making in Uncertain Times16:12 The Role of Stakeholders in Business Decisions18:48 Finding Stability Amidst Chaos21:37 Conclusion and Call to Action  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysTight supply and credit are major issues in the coffee industry.Working capital is crucial for navigating market fluctuations.Coffee prices have significantly increased over the past few years.Tariffs and hedging costs are adding financial pressure on importers.Supply chain issues are exacerbating the crisis in the coffee market.Roasters need to protect their credit lines during tough times.Communication with suppliers and banks is essential for maintaining credit.The market's uncertainty is likely to persist in the near future.Strategic planning is necessary for roasters to adapt to changing conditions.Understanding the macroeconomic factors affecting coffee prices is vital.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

The term 'Quaker' in coffee refers to under-roasted beans.Quaker Brown is linked to the clothing of the Society of Friends.Quaker defects are a result of immature green beans.Quaker defects are the same color as clothing worn by many in the Society of Friends in the 1800'sThe term 'Quaker' was initially derogatory but was reclaimed.Researching coffee history can reveal surprising connections.  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Inverted Market02:49 Understanding Backwardation and Contango05:24 Implications of the Inverted Market for Roasters08:20 Navigating Challenges in Coffee Sourcing10:46 Strategic Planning for Coffee Businesses13:33 Conclusion and Future Considerations  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Chapters00:00 Introduction to The X-Files Podcast00:44 Building a Team in Coffee Roasting02:23 The Importance of Vision and Values06:25 Cash Flow and Team Growth08:28 Hiring Employees: Mindset and Responsibilities10:26 Empowering Employees and Allowing Failure12:09 Defining Roles and Growth Opportunities13:57 Sales vs. Roasting: Who to Hire First?15:20 Finding the Right Salesperson21:34 Structuring Your Organization23:14 Needs vs. Wants in Hiring30:38 Inverted Hierarchy in Team Structure35:13 Encouraging Employee Growth and Loyalty  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

00:00 Introduction to Selling Roasted Coffee02:48 The Four P's Framework05:22 Focusing on Whole Bean Sales in Your Own Coffeehouse08:15 Innovative Packaging Solutions10:54 Building Community Presence16:43 The Importance of Persistence29:38 Understanding Pricing Strategies  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysThe coffee market is unpredictable and requires constant scenario planning.Recent cold weather in Brazil had minimal impact on overall crop size.Demand for coffee remains strong despite market fluctuations.Supply and demand dynamics are crucial in determining coffee prices.Tariffs and regulations are reshaping global coffee trade patterns.The EUDR will complicate coffee imports from Africa to Europe.China's increased authorization of Brazilian exporters could shift trade flows.Roasters are currently facing challenges in sourcing coffee.Understanding the global coffee supply chain is essential for businesses.Strategic planning is vital for navigating market uncertainties.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysMount Kenya's discovery was shrouded in mystery and folklore.Colonial powers significantly influenced coffee cultivation in Kenya.Missionaries played a crucial role in introducing coffee farming.The Kikuyu people have a deep cultural connection to the land.Economic opportunities for Kenyans grew with the establishment of cooperatives.The history of coffee in Kenya reflects broader themes of colonialism and resistance.Only white settlers were allowed to own coffee farms for decades.The rise of smallholder farmers transformed the coffee landscape in Kenya.Kenya's coffee story is intertwined with its cultural heritage and identity.      The Written BlogPart of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysErik's role involves extensive use of Excel and Power BI.He acts as a connector between different departments at Covoya.Learning about the coffee industry is a fulfilling part of his job.Erik has a background in food service and competitive intelligence analysis.Data quality is crucial in coffee operations.The democratization of data is essential for effective decision-making.Building relationships within the team enhances collaboration.Erik likes helping others access and understand data.The coffee industry is still adapting to modern data practices.Erik aspires to further integrate data analysis into the coffee industry.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Understanding tariffs is important for coffee industry players.Current tariffs on coffee are broad and uncertain.Brazilian coffee is significantly impacted by new tariffs.Roasters need to consider short-term and long-term strategies.Substituting Brazilian coffee with other sources is a consideration.The coffee market is reacting to tariff news with caution.Planning based on rumors can lead to poor business decisions.Exploring coffee blends can help mitigate tariff impacts.Communication with customers about changes is vital.  TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

TakeawaysThe podcast focuses on personal coffee stories and experiences.Each guest shares their unique journey into the coffee industry.Storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting.Memorable experiences often define one's journey in coffee.   TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

00:00 Introduction to the Coffee Consumption Quiz02:23 Exploring Coffee Preferences: Lattes vs. Cappuccinos05:07 Brewing Methods: Percolators vs. Pour-Overs07:52 Regional Coffee Trends: Dark Roasts and Popularity10:25 The Shift in Coffee Drinking Habits13:10 Coffee Consumption Statistics: Age and Preferences15:54 The Popularity of Single-Cup Brewers18:26 The Lightning Round: Quickfire Coffee Questions21:07 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up  Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

00:51 Customer Training for Coffee Roasters03:44 The Role of Trainers in Coffee Businesses07:45 Monetizing Training Programs11:37 Engaging Different Learning Styles14:39 Training Centers vs. On-Site Training18:36 Monetizing Training and Communicating Value22:29 The Importance of Standards in Training26:00 Alternative Brewing Methods in Restaurants29:31 Consultative Selling in Coffee Training32:41 Communication Styles in Training37:02 Standardization vs. Individual Expression43:49 The Value of Industry Standards52:43 Conclusion: The Importance of Training in Coffee  Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

TakeawaysQuality assurance is crucial in coffee roasting.Cupping is essential for coffee quality.You need to taste your own coffee.Cupping should be a priority in your business.Learn to cup, then cup to learn.Make cupping enjoyable and accessible.Invest in basic quality control tools.Cupping with peers enhances learning.Practice is key to improving your cupping skills.Production brewing can be more effective than cupping.   Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Terminology02:50 Understanding FOB and Its Importance05:57 The Process of Coffee Stripping09:05 Buying Forward: Securing Future Inventory12:02 Defining Your Coffee Position15:06 Delivery Orders and Their Role17:49 Understanding NANS and Its Implications21:10 Grain Pro: Enhancing Coffee Quality23:56 The Role of the Green Coffee Association27:12 Hedging: Managing Risk in Coffee Trading27:54 Understanding Hedging in Coffee Trading30:17 The Importance of Allocation33:38 Counterparty Dynamics in Coffee Transactions35:51 Differentials: A Unique Pricing Strategy38:32 Long and Short Positions Explained41:52 The Concept of Lots in Coffee Trading46:32 Understanding Carry Charges49:52 Unit of Measure: The Basics of Coffee Pricing  Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

TakeawaysSam's background in coffee started with Dunkin' Donuts and coffee milk.Her first job in coffee was with coffee extracts.Marketing in coffee involves a variety of tasks and events.The coffee industry is heavily influenced by the people involved.Navigating market changes can be challenging for marketing efforts.Sam values the willingness of others to share knowledge in the coffee community.Covoya aims to be more present in the market and at events.The importance of storytelling in marketing coffee products.Sam enjoys a simple life filled with family and cooking.Having pets adds joy and comfort to her home life.   Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

TakeawaysRae Tran aims to uplift the quality of Vietnamese coffee.Karmic Circle Coffee Trading focuses on quality rather than quantity.Innovative processing methods are being introduced in Vietnam.The US market is diverse and seeks unique coffee offerings.Rae credits Miguel from Paradise for his mentorship.Vietnam is experiencing a mini Renaissance in specialty coffee.The company imports between three and five tons of coffee annually.Pre-orders help minimize risks for small operations.Instagram is the best way for roasters to connect with Karmic Circle.The current political climate poses challenges for coffee importers.   Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

TakeawaysThe coffee industry thrives on personal connections and relationships.Attending coffee expos provides invaluable face time with suppliers and peers.Building trust is essential in the coffee business, especially when separated by distance.Newcomers to the coffee industry bring fresh excitement and perspectives.The evolution of coffee expos reflects changes in the industry and community dynamics.Sharing experiences and stories helps roasters learn and grow together.Networking at expos can lead to unexpected opportunities and collaborations.The significance of community in fostering growth and innovation in coffee.Bird and Bear Coffee represents a new wave of coffee roasting in San Francisco. Greg's entrepreneurial spirit was influenced by his mother's example.Starting a coffee business involved overcoming many obstacles.Personal experiences shape the way we approach business.Failure can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth.A unique coffee experience can differentiate a business.The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with ups and downs. Visit:Bird and BearCoffeebarVisit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY

TakeawaysThe absence of dark roast options in specialty is puzzling.35% reported drinking dark roast, while only 12% light roast.Consumer preferences shift significantly after age 40.Dark roast consumption is higher among older demographics.Specialty coffee roasters should offer dark roasts for business growth.Good roasting skills are essential for quality dark roasts.The coffee industry has shifted towards lighter roasts in recent years.Understanding consumer preferences can drive better business decisions.Theme music: Dark Symphony Written blog: Making a Case for Dark RoastVisit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY