EP 824 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Coffee Crisis and the Middle East - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th episode in a 5-part series of the new direction of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast. Host Lee Safar is joined by co-founders of Bunni Coffee in Amman, Jordan, Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes.

In this series, Lee, Shireen, and James discuss what it's like to do business in the Middle East, the birthplace of roasted and brewed coffee.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee Safar hosts Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes to discuss the significant impact of the global coffee crisis on businesses and consumers in the Middle East.

The conversation delves into the rising coffee prices, the differences between specialty and commercial coffee markets, and how cultural sensitivities in regions like the Levant and GCC shape the consumer response to this crisis.

The episode also touches on logistical challenges, climate impact on coffee supply, and the role of business values and sustainability in navigating this crisis. Finally, they explore the unique challenges of operating a coffee business in a region where extreme summer heat leads to a seasonal exodus of consumers.

EP 823 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - Challenges of the Middle East Coffee Market - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd episode in a 5-part series of the new direction of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast. Host Lee Safar is joined by co-founders of Bunni Coffee in Amman, Jordan, Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes.

In this series, Lee, Shireen, and James discuss what it's like to do business in the Middle East, the birthplace of roasted and brewed coffee.

In the third episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, host Lee Safar talks with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes from Bunni Coffee in Jordan about the challenges of establishing a specialty coffee business in the region.

They discuss the complexities of importing goods, regional stability, and logistics that affect their operations.

Despite these hurdles, Shireen and James share their experiences in managing people, the importance of trust in sourcing coffee, and their continuous journey in developing their business.

This episode highlights the unique business landscape in Jordan and offers insights into the broader coffee industry.

Stay tuned for the next episode, where the discussion will focus on the coffee crisis.

EP 822 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - Building a Values Driven Business in Jordan - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd episode in a 5-part series of the new direction of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast. Host Lee Safar is joined by co-founders of Bunni Coffee in Amman, Jordan, Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes.

In this series, Lee, Shireen, and James discuss what it's like to do business in the Middle East, the birthplace of roasted and brewed coffee.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, host Lee Safar talks with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes from Bunni Coffee about building a values-driven coffee business in the Middle East.

They discuss the importance of core values, understanding the market, balancing profitability with impact, and differentiating their brand from competitors.

They also explore how cultural heritage plays a role in their business model and the challenges of pioneering specialty coffee in Jordan. Join us for insightful conversations about navigating the coffee industry with a strong foundation of values.

EP 821 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Middle East Coffee Landscape - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first episode in a 5-part series of the new direction of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast. Host Lee Safar is joined by co-founders of Bunni Coffee in Amman, Jordan, Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes.

In this series, Lee, Shireen, and James discuss what it's like to do business in the Middle East, the birthplace of roasted and brewed coffee.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the newly relaunched Map It Forward Middle East Podcast! Host Lee Safar sits down with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes, co-founders of Bunni Coffee in Jordan.

In this episode, they discuss the evolving coffee market in the Middle East, the shift from commercial to specialty coffee, and the unique challenges and opportunities in the region. They also touch on their backgrounds in humanitarian work and how those values influence their business.

Tune in to learn about building a values-driven coffee business and the intricacies of the Middle Eastern coffee landscape. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe!

EP 820 Mark Bartlett - What's Eroding Demand For Quality in F&B? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products and host Lee Safar have a fascinating discussion about the bastardization of quality in restaurants and cafes.

In this episode, Lee and Mark discuss the importance of regenerative agriculture and its impact on quality in the F&B sector.

They discuss the challenges and benefits of adopting regenerative practices, the roles of consumers, businesses, and producers in driving the shift towards quality ingredients, and how the coffee industry can better understand and implement these practices.

Additionally, the episode touches on the necessity of immediate feedback in improving food quality and highlights successful examples from the Middle East's coffee and food scene. Tune in for real conversations on farming, quality ingredients, and the dynamic coffee market in the Middle East.

Lee Safar29 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Tim Heinze, Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), cva, quality, Bon Accord, Mark BartlettComment

EP 819 Mark Bartlett - Is Quality Subjective? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products and host Lee Safar have a fascinating discussion about the bastardization of quality in restaurants and cafes.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, host Lee Safar converses with Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products about the subjectivity of quality in food.

They delve into how personal experience and exposure shape our perceptions of quality, illustrated through examples of wine, oysters, cheese, and pizza.

The discussion highlights the significance of trusting one's taste and the inherent subjectivity in defining quality.

Additionally, they explore the role of mentorship and ingredient selection in culinary education, concluding with a teaser for the next episode on factors eroding society's demand for quality produce and ingredients.

Lee Safar28 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), cva, Bon Accord, Mark Bartlett, qualityComment

EP 818 Mark Bartlett - The Relationship Between Cost and Quality - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products and host Lee Safar have a fascinating discussion about the bastardization of quality in restaurants and cafes.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, host Lee Safar continues a lively discussion with Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products.

The episode delves into the misconceptions surrounding 'ceremonial grade' matcha, a term that holds no standard in Japan and is considered a Western invention. They also explore the impact of product quality on customer preferences, specifically how high-quality peanut butter can transform café offerings.

Additionally, Mark shares insights into the challenges faced by chefs and cafés in maintaining quality amidst economic pressures such as high rents.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that touches on everything from matcha and peanut butter to the broader dynamics between quality and cost in the food and beverage industry.

Lee Safar28 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), cva, Bon Accord, Mark Bartlett, qualityComment

EP 817 Mark Bartlett - A Shift Away From Quality In F&B - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products and host Lee Safar have a fascinating discussion about the bastardization of quality in restaurants and cafes.

In this thought-provoking episode of 'The Daily Coffee Pro' by Map It Forward, Lee and Mark discuss the shift away from quality in the hospitality industry over the past 20 years.

They explore the transition from traditional, high-quality ingredients and cooking methods to the commercialization and trend-driven nature of modern cafes and restaurants.

Featuring insights on the importance of passion-driven, independently owned eateries, the impact of convenience on food quality, and the enduring value of classic dishes, this episode is a must-watch for anyone in the coffee and food service industries.

Don't miss out as they delve into how quality and nutrition are intertwined and the critical role single-owner establishments play in maintaining culinary standards.

Lee Safar26 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Tim Heinze, Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), cva, quality, Bon Accord, Mark BartlettComment

EP 816 Mark Bartlett - What Is Quality? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Mark Bartlett from Bon Accord Products and host Lee Safar have a fascinating discussion about the bastardization of quality in restaurants and cafes.

In this episode, Lee and Mark delve into the evolving definition of quality in the food and beverage industry, sharing insightful examples and personal experiences.

From comparing milk and bread production in the past to discussing the impact of corporate decisions on quality, this episode explores how our understanding and expectations of quality have shifted over the decades.

Discover how nutrition, marketing, and commercial influences play a role, and why it's crucial to reconnect with the sources of our food.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of what truly defines quality in today's market.

Lee Safar26 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Tim Heinze, Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), cva, quality, Bon Accord, Mark BartlettComment

EP 815 Tim Heinze - Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI) - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.

In this insightful episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, host Lee and Tim discuss SCI's relaunch as a registered nonprofit in the US, their commitment to transparency, and the new Coffee Cuppers Certificate as an alternative to the Q Grader certification.

Tim also addresses the courses available for farmers, the current state and history of SCI, and their plans for bridging educational gaps in the coffee industry.

Dive into this episode for an in-depth look at the future of coffee education and the values driving SCI's mission.

EP 814 Tim Heinze - Why People Are Polarised by The CVA - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Tim discuss the industry's reaction to the recent changes in the Q Grader certification.

They explore the polarizing decision by the SCA and CQI to implement new quality evaluation measures during a time of multiple crises in the coffee industry, including price, supply, climate, and logistical issues.

The episode features a detailed examination of the challenges faced by industry professionals, the concerns over accessibility and transparency, and the impact on educators and producers.

Lee and Tim also address the broader implications of these changes and the need for a balance between certification accessibility and maintaining educational quality.

EP 813 Tim Heinze - Issues With The 2004 Cupping Form - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.

In this episode of 'The Daily Coffee Pro' by Map It Forward, Lee and Tim delve into the complexities of evaluating coffee quality. They discuss the importance of using methods like cupping forms, while highlighting the industry's misalignment with reducing coffee quality to just a score.

The conversation also touches upon the controversial new CVA form by the SCA, including its implications, reception, and comparisons to the 2004 cupping form.

Tim shares his insights from years of experience in coffee evaluation and sensory education, emphasizing the need for balanced, multi-faceted approaches to coffee quality assessment.

EP 812 Tim Heinze - Does the Q Need Evolving? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Tim discuss the controversial shift from the 2004 Q Grader form to the new CVA form in the coffee industry.

Tim expresses concerns about the bulky nature of the CVA form and its impact on high-volume quality control labs in producing countries.

The discussion touches on the broader implications for coffee producers, importers, exporters, and the overall supply chain.

They highlight the need for the industry to adapt and innovate while also emphasizing the need to address more pressing issues like climate change and economic challenges faced by coffee farmers.

EP 811 Tim Heinze - SCA, CQI, and the "Evolved Q" - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first in a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward. Tim Heinze, the Director of Education of the Sustainable Coffee Institute (SCI), and host Lee Safar discuss the recent changes announced to the Q Grader program.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, the discussion covers the impacts of these changes on the specialty coffee community, the lack of transparency from the CQI and SCA, and the future direction of coffee education.

They also explore the industry's response, including the creation of the Sustainable Coffee Institute to fill the void left by these changes.

Tune in to understand the seismic shift affecting the entire specialty coffee industry and its ramifications.

EP 810 César Magaña - Who Is The Future Consumer of Cacao - 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.

Lee Safar15 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Cesar Magana Belco CacaoComment

EP 809 César Magaña - The Impact Of Specialty Cacao - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

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.

Lee Safar14 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Cesar Magana Belco CacaoComment

EP 808 César Magaña - What Is Specialty Cacao? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

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.

Lee Safar13 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Cesar Magana Belco CacaoComment

EP 807 César Magaña - The Volatility In The Cacao Market - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

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.

Lee Safar12 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Cesar Magana Belco CacaoComment

EP 806 César Magaña - The Volatility In The Cacao Market - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

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.

Lee Safar11 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Cesar Magana Belco CacaoComment

EP 805 Mollie Sitkowski - How Can We Mitigate The Impact of Tariffs - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th episode in a 5-part series with Mollie Sitkowski, Partner at Faegre Drinker. Mollie specializes in Trade Compliance and is based in Chicago.

In this series, Mollie and host Lee Safar focus on the impact of Trump's tariffs on the global coffee supply chain.

Please note that all the information in this series is purely the opinions of Mollie Sitkowski and Lee Safar and should not constitute legal and business advice.

In the final episode of this five-part series, Lee Safar and trade compliance expert Mollie Sitkowski discuss potential changes to tariffs, the intricacies of customs classifications, and strategies for businesses to mitigate these financial challenges.

Mollie provides insights into the roles of customs brokers and compliance experts while highlighting the need for businesses to exercise reasonable care in their operations.

Stay updated with tariff changes by following Mollie on LinkedIn.

Lee Safar8 May 2025Lee Safar, Map It Forward, Mollie Sitkowski Faegre DrinkerComment

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