EP 865 Saeed Al Blooshi - Trends in UAE Cafes - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.

In this final episode of the podcast series, Lee Safar and Saeed discuss the impact of trends on the coffee industry in the UAE, highlighting how social media-driven trends like hot chocolate, matcha, and Labubu toys can significantly boost business.

Saeed shares insights on the challenges and opportunities in the evolving coffee market, and they explore future trends like infused coffees and cold brew.

Subscribe to the podcast to hear inspiring stories from values-driven entrepreneurs in the Middle East.

EP 864 Saeed Al Blooshi - Owners and Staff in the UAE - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the disconnect between coffee shop owners and their staff in the UAE.

Saeed shares stories about successful staff development, including the inspiring journey of Jerry from cleaner to barista.

They also touch upon the importance of communication, vision, and investment in employee growth.

Additionally, they discuss the unique staffing and cultural challenges in the UAE coffee industry and how fostering a good team culture can transform a business.

The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into the final episode of this series, focusing on the role of trends in the coffee industry.

EP 863 Saeed Al Blooshi - Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the challenges faced by cafe owners in the UAE's coffee industry.

They explore the lack of involvement from owners in their businesses, issues arising from poor supply chain understanding, and the impact of inconsistent sourcing decisions.

The episode highlights the importance of understanding the coffee supply chain, building strong relationships with suppliers, and involving staff in the business for long-term success.

Tune in to learn more about the complexities of managing a coffee business in the UAE.

EP 862 Saeed Al Blooshi - The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the coffee crisis in the UAE.

They explore the booming demand for quality coffee and the intense competition in the market.

Saeed shares insights on starting and growing a coffee business, the importance of clear identity and long-term vision, and the challenges around staffing and green coffee supply.

This episode is part of a five-part series focusing on building a successful coffee business in the UAE.

EP 861 Saeed Al Blooshi - Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the evolution of the coffee industry in the UAE, emphasizing the shift from commercial to specialty coffee cultures, the rise of local roasters, and the increasing consumer knowledge and expectations.

Saeed shares his journey, from starting with a small coffee roasting setup to operating successful cafes and a roastery.

They also set the stage for future episodes in the series by hinting at upcoming discussions on the coffee crisis in the UAE.

Join us for an insightful look into the craft of coffee and the challenges of building a coffee business in the UAE.

EP 860 Isabela Raposeiras - The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.

In this final episode of the series, Lee concludes an enlightening conversation with Isabela from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

They delve into the historical and ongoing issues of colonization and exploitation in the coffee industry, the significance of the Q grading system, and the importance of quality in ethical coffee production.

Isabela shares her personal journey and insights as a barista and Q grader, emphasizing the need for fair compensation for producers.

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the future of coffee quality metrics and a heartfelt closing message from Isabela.

EP 859 Isabela Raposeiras - Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae

This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.

In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.

In this episode of the podcast, Lee and Isabela discuss the current state and future of the Brazilian coffee market.

They explore topics like the health benefits of coffee, the need for increased investment in Brazil’s coffee industry, the challenges in converting Brazilian consumers to specialty coffee, and the impact of Brazil's taxing policies on coffee businesses. Isabela also shares her insights into how associations like the SCA can better support the industry and the critical need for coffee education.

Additionally, the episode covers the importance of setting clear quality standards and the broader implications for the global coffee supply chain.

Don't miss this insightful conversation that touches on everything from business strategy to the social impacts of coffee production.

EP 858 Isabela Raposeiras - The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.

In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Isabela discuss the significance of specialty coffee to the Brazilian economy, environment, and social well-being.

They discuss the need for consumer education, the challenges in shifting from staple to high-quality coffee, and the economic dynamics within the coffee industry.

Isabela provides insights into how specialty coffee is viewed in Brazil, both from producing and consuming perspectives, and emphasizes the importance of fostering relationships and educating consumers to drive the specialty coffee movement forward.

EP 857 Isabela Raposeiras - Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.

In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Isabela discuss the intricacies of Brazil's internal specialty coffee market, sharing stories about the challenges and successes of building fair and sustainable trade relationships with coffee producers.

Isabela talks about how paying fair prices and establishing long-term trust can positively impact producers and the coffee ecosystem.

The episode also sheds light on the importance of specialty coffee for Brazil's economy, the environment, and the social dignity of Brazilian coffee farmers.

EP 856 Isabela Raposeiras - Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.

In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.

In this episode of the podcast, Lee and Isabela explore insights on the complexities of the Brazilian coffee industry.

Isabela sheds light on misconceptions about Brazil as an origin country, the challenges faced by small coffee producers, and the importance of cupping and quality to make better decisions.

The discussion also touches on the exploitation of producers by traders and cooperatives, and how Isabela's journey in the coffee world began.

A must-watch for anyone wanting to delve deeper into the realities of coffee production in Brazil.

EP 855 Yozo Otsuki - Expanding Kurasu Globally - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Yozo Otsuki from Kurasu.

In this series, we're exploring the journey that Yozo went on, starting, building, growing, and expanding Kurasu within Japan and around the world with a franchise model.

In this final episode of a five-part series, Lee and Yozo deep dive into the significance of maintaining integrity and values while expanding a global brand.

Yozo shares insights on the holistic approach that drives Kurasu, emphasizing customer experience, partner relationships, and the importance of staying true to one's core values.

They discuss the challenges and considerations of global growth, the impact of franchise models, and the complexities of integrating investors.

The episode concludes with reflections on past journeys and advice to future selves, encapsulating the essence of intentional business growth in the specialty coffee industry.

MIFME25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar17 July 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Map It Forward Middle East, Yozo Otsuki, kurasuComment

EP 854 Yozo Otsuki - Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Yozo Otsuki from Kurasu.

In this series, we're exploring the journey that Yozo went on, starting, building, growing, and expanding Kurasu within Japan and around the world with a franchise model.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Yozo discuss the intricacies of building, growing, and expanding a Japanese coffee brand while striking the right balance between expansion and maintaining a conscious supply chain.

Yozo shares insights on the franchise model, how Kurasu compares to % Arabica, and the importance of transparency and intention in the coffee business.

Additionally, the episode announces the launch of Map It Forward Japan, which aims to bring new perspectives to the Japanese coffee industry.

MIFME25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar16 July 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Map It Forward Middle East, Yozo Otsuki, kurasuComment

EP 853 Yozo Otsuki - Building a Coffee Concept - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Yozo Otsuki from Kurasu.

In this series, we're exploring the journey that Yozo went on, starting, building, growing, and expanding Kurasu within Japan and around the world with a franchise model.

In episode three of this series, Lee and Yozo discuss the importance of building a strong brand before expanding globally.

Discover how Kurasu started with coffee equipment and home brewing education, their focus on merging Japanese and international perspectives, and the complexities of the coffee industry.

Yozo shares his vision for sustainable growth and the unique challenges faced by Japanese roasters.

Stay tuned for more insights on building and growing a successful coffee brand.

MIFME25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar15 July 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Map It Forward Middle East, Yozo Otsuki, kurasuComment

EP 852 Yozo Otsuki - The Japanese Coffee Industry - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Yozo Otsuki from Kurasu.

In this series, we're exploring the journey that Yozo went on, starting, building, growing, and expanding Kurasu within Japan and around the world with a franchise model.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Yozo dive deep into the unique aspects of the Japanese coffee industry, drawing fascinating comparisons between Japanese and global coffee cultures.

Yozo shares insights about his journey from a finance professional to a coffee entrepreneur, the influence of Japanese mastery on coffee brewing, and the meticulous, ritualistic nature of Japanese coffee craftsmanship.

The discussion also covers the significant role of external influences in shaping Japan's coffee scene, the impact of omakase in coffee, and the delicate balance of sustaining business amidst tourism and local patronage.

Lastly, they touch on the exchange of barista talent between Japan and Australia and its impact on both coffee cultures.

Join us for a rich exploration of coffee passion, dedication, and the art of brewing.

MIFME25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar14 July 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Map It Forward Middle East, Yozo Otsuki, kurasuComment

EP 851 Yozo Otsuki - Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 1st of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Yozo Otsuki from Kurasu.

In this series, we're exploring the journey that Yozo went on, starting, building, growing, and expanding Kurasu within Japan and around the world with a franchise model.

In this episode of a new five-part series, Lee and Yozo explore Kurasu’s evolution from its origins in Japan to becoming a global coffee brand.

Yozo shares his journey from working in finance to entering the coffee industry and discusses the unique characteristics of the Japanese coffee market.

They also delve into the importance of sustainable business practices and maintaining brand authenticity in a global market.

Lee announces the launch of 'Map It Forward Japan,' an initiative to make their content accessible to the Japanese coffee community.

You can find out more about Map It Forward Japan at https://mapitforward.coffee/japan and https://instagram.com/mapitforwardjapan

MIFME25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar13 July 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Map It Forward Middle East, Yozo Otsuki, kurasuComment

EP 850 Angela Barrero - Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.

In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.

In the final episode of this series, Lee and Angela discuss the dire state and uncertain future of coffee and cacao farming.

The episode covers the aging plantations, economic difficulties, climate change impacts, and the shift towards illegal crops like coca.

Angela shares her experiences with regenerative agriculture and the importance of stable, long-term business relationships.

Learn about the urgent need for coffee industry stakeholders to adapt to ensure sustainability and protect the income of future generations.

EP 849 Angela Barrero - Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.

In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.

In episode four of our five-part series with Angela, we explore the volatile pricing in the coffee and cacao markets. Lee and Angela discuss the impact of inflation on coffee prices, the historical and current issues affecting cacao supply, and the economic difficulties faced by farmers.

Despite high global demand, many farmers are struggling to sustain their operations due to low market prices and high production costs, driving some to reconsider their livelihoods.

This episode sheds light on the challenges and the uncertain future of coffee and cacao farming.

EP 848 Angela Barrero - The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.

In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, Lee and Angela discuss the challenges of growing coffee and cacao due to climate change and the decrease in the agricultural workforce.

She introduces regenerative agriculture as a solution to enhance soil life, ensure better yields, and create sustainable farming practices.

Angela explains the essential role of microbiology in soil and how techniques like biochar and compost tea contribute to healthy plant growth.

She emphasizes the importance of creating optimal conditions for plants to thrive and the long-term investment in soil health.

Learn about practical applications of regenerative agriculture and how it can be implemented worldwide, including in arid regions like Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

EP 847 Angela Barrero - The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmer's Success - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.

In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee and Angela discuss the transition to regenerative agriculture on her coffee and cacao farm, the challenges faced by coffee farmers, and the importance of creating a sustainable business model.

Learn about cash crops, the critical role of knowledge in farming, and how innovative practices can lead to a thriving farming ecosystem.

This episode is part of a five-part series aimed at addressing the future of coffee farming amidst rising costs and climate change.

EP 846 Angela Barrero - Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.

In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.

In this first episode of the series, Lee and Angela discuss the significant challenges facing coffee and cacao farming today compared to five years ago, highlighting the impact of climate change, high mortality rates of coffee trees, and deforestation.

The episode also covers Angela's family's legacy in coffee farming and their shift towards regenerative agriculture.

Tune in to understand the risks, the history, and the future of coffee and cacao farming.