Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a 5-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with César Magaña, the Director of Cacao at Belco. In this series, César and host, Lee Safar discuss the cacao industry in 2025.

In this final episode of the series, Lee and Cesar dive into the nuanced differences between cacao and chocolate, the impact of consumer behavior on the cacao industry, and the market forces at play.

They discuss how traditional consumption patterns intersect with modern trends, like the rise of protein-rich diets influenced by health initiatives and celebrity endorsements.

Cesar also shares insights on the historical and cultural significance of cacao, while highlighting the role of high-quality, sustainable production in the future of the industry.

This enlightening conversation provides a comprehensive look at the past, present, and future of cacao and chocolate.

This is the 4th of a 5-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with César Magaña, the Director of Cacao at Belco. In this series, César and host, Lee Safar discuss the cacao industry in 2025.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Cesar discuss the complexities and passions involved in the specialty cacao industry.

They tackle topics such as the definition of specialty cacao, the impact of companies like Mr. Beast's Feastables, and the role of certifications like Fairtrade.

The conversation also touches on the personal pride and sense of fulfillment that farmers derive from their work. Additionally, it delves into modern trends such as ceremonial cacao and its commercial implications.

Join us for this insightful discussion into the future of the cacao industry and its parallels with the specialty coffee sector.

This is the 3rd of a 5-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with César Magaña, the Director of Cacao at Belco. In this series, César and host, Lee Safar discuss the cacao industry in 2025.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and César delve into the ambiguous definitions of specialty cacao and specialty coffee, discussing how these definitions vary according to different perspectives.

The episode explores the complexities of defining what makes cacao 'special' and the implications on producers' lives and the environment.

Cesar emphasizes the importance of agroforestry, the need for a dignified livelihood for cacao producers, and the significance of clean, high-quality cacao.

Tune in to learn more about the challenges and intricacies of the cacao industry, and why it's essential to focus on sustainability and ethical production practices.

This is the 2nd of a 5-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with César Magaña, the Director of Cacao at Belco. In this series, César and host, Lee Safar discuss the cacao industry in 2025.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and César delve into the intricate and volatile world of the cacao industry.

They discuss the multi-layered challenges faced by producers in Africa, the devastating effects of pests and diseases on cacao crops, and the systemic issues within the global supply chain.

The episode also highlights the impact of market manipulation and speculation, drawing parallels with the coffee industry.

Join us to understand the complexities of the cacao industry, the humans involved in its production, and the ongoing battle for fair trade practices.

This is the first of a 5-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with César Magaña, the Director of Cacao at Belco. In this series, César and host, Lee Safar discuss the cacao industry in 2025.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee Safar welcomes César Magaña, the Director of Cacao from Belco, to discuss the intricate and volatile world of the cacao industry.

The conversation delves into the various elements and actors involved in the cacao supply chain, the historical and cultural significance of cacao, and the ongoing challenges of volatility and production.

César provides insights into the realities faced by small and large producers around the globe, from Latin America to Africa, and addresses the systemic issues causing price fluctuations.

The episode also touches upon the similarities between cacao and coffee markets, and sets the stage for future episodes exploring the human elements and economic dynamics of cacao production.