The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network

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 Blog Part 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.  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network 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.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network 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  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

 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  Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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 BearCoffeebar Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

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 Roast Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Coffee is a collaborative journey involving various stakeholders.Sustainability in coffee is not just a trend but a necessity.The coffee market is evolving, and so are consumer expectations.Entrepreneurship in coffee requires resilience and adaptability.The importance of community and relationships in the coffee industry cannot be overstated.The Cup of Excellence highlights the best in coffee but needs to support all farmers.Innovative solutions like biochar can help address climate issues in coffee.The coffee industry offers endless opportunities for growth and exploration.Compassion and empathy are key traits for success in the coffee business.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!

Packaging is both a marketing tool and a means to preserve freshness.The choice of packaging should reflect the coffee's intended market and distribution method.Simple and elegant packaging can be effective for local sales.Investing in quality packaging technology can enhance operational efficiency.Distinctive packaging helps brands stand out on crowded shelves.Understanding your brand identity is crucial for packaging decisions.Cost considerations are important when choosing packaging options.Freshness is a key factor in packaging for longer distribution routes.Artisanal approaches to packaging can slow down production but may add value.Collaborating with established roasting plants can reduce initial packaging costs.   Part of The Exchange Coffee Podcasting Network TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY Visit and Explore Covoya!