EP 832 Mohamad Merhi - What We're Getting Wrong Building Coffee Brands - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Mohamad Merhi, founder of Cypher Urban Roasters, a company based in the UAE.

In this series, Mohamad and Lee discuss what it takes to grow a successful coffee brand in the Middle East.

In this episode, they discuss the nuances of building a successful coffee brand in the Middle East.

Among the key topics are the uniqueness of the region's diverse consumer behaviors and regulatory frameworks, the importance of authenticity and community connection, and the pitfalls brands face when importing Western business models without customization.

They also touch upon the collaboration versus competition debate and the significant role of trust and relationships in business success.

Contact sales@rawcoffee.ae for partnerships and check the show notes for more details.

EP 831 Mohamad Merhi - Middle East Coffee Brands Are Innovating - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Mohamad Merhi, founder of Cypher Urban Roasters, a company based in the UAE.

In this series, Mohamad and Lee discuss what it takes to grow a successful coffee brand in the Middle East.

In the first episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast series, host Lee and Mohamad discuss the evolution and identity of coffee culture in the Middle East, the diverse approaches to branding in the region, and how brands like Cypher can communicate a unique story that resonates with local and global audiences.

Mohamad shares his personal journey from a finance career to building a unique coffee brand influenced by his Palestinian roots, his experiences in Montreal, and a passion for coffee.

They also touch on how different markets within the Middle East have varying preferences and the importance of respecting local culture while introducing new ideas.

EP 830 Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood - How To Remain Relevant In Coffee - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th of a 5-part series with Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood from RAW Coffee Company in Dubai on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast.

In this series, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the journey of the specialty coffee shop that started it all here in the Middle East - RAW Coffee Company.

In this final episode of our five-part series with Kim and Matt from Raw Coffee Company, Lee delves into how Raw Coffee Company has evolved from a specialty coffee shop to a multifaceted business entity, particularly focusing on their successful venture into Raw Beverage Trading.

The conversation explores their strategies for remaining relevant in an ever-changing market, the importance of maintaining ethics and relationships, and the burgeoning role of matcha in the beverage industry.

The discussion also touches on the broader coffee crisis, the impact of global supply chain issues, and shifts observed in the Middle Eastern market.

Tune in for insights on sustainability, growth, and the balance between innovation and tradition in the coffee industry.

EP 829 Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood - Coffee Business Is Complex - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 4th of a 5-part series with Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood from RAW Coffee Company in Dubai on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast.

In this series, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the journey of the specialty coffee shop that started it all here in the Middle East - RAW Coffee Company.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee talks with Kim and Matt from Raw Coffee Company about the true cost of coffee production and the challenges of running a profitable café.

They discuss the importance of understanding fully loaded costs, the stark difference between aesthetics and profitability in café design, and the reality of operating a successful coffee business in Dubai and the broader Middle East.

Additionally, the conversation touches on the business models prevalent in the UAE, the significance of owner involvement, and the impact of meticulous detail in operations.

This episode offers valuable insights for anyone involved in the coffee industry or looking to understand it better.

EP 828 Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood - The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 3rd of a 5-part series with Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood from RAW Coffee Company in Dubai on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast.

In this series, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the journey of the specialty coffee shop that started it all here in the Middle East - RAW Coffee Company.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the true challenges faced by specialty coffee shops in Dubai.

The conversation highlights the financial pressures of operating in the city, from high air conditioning costs to expensive sewage removal, and the unique obstacles such as a nine-month business season due to extreme heat and Ramadan.

The episode also addresses common misconceptions about Dubai's coffee scene, emphasizing the importance of business fundamentals over mere brand building.

Tune in for an eye-opening discussion on what it really takes to run a successful coffee business in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

EP 827 Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood - Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 2nd of a 5-part series with Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood from RAW Coffee Company in Dubai on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast.

In this series, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the journey of the specialty coffee shop that started it all here in the Middle East - RAW Coffee Company.

In this episode, they discuss the crucial role that relationships play in the specialty coffee industry. From direct trade with producers to community building in Dubai, discover how Raw Coffee Company navigates business challenges and prioritizes integrity and sustainability over trade shows.

Learn about their personal journeys, the value of business mentorship, and the evolving coffee scene in the Middle East.

Whether you're a new or seasoned coffee business owner, this episode offers invaluable insights into building enduring, trust-based relationships in the industry.

EP 826 Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood - Who is RAW Coffee Company? - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the first of a 5-part series with Kim Thompson and Matt Toogood from RAW Coffee Company in Dubai on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast.

In this series, Lee, Kim, and Matt discuss the journey of the specialty coffee shop that started it all here in the Middle East - RAW Coffee Company.

In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, Lee welcomes Kim and Matt from RAW Coffee Company to discuss the myths and realities of building a successful coffee business in the UAE.

The founders share their journey from New Zealanders to establishing RAW as a sustainable, Emirati business.

They debunk common myths about their funding, specialty coffee status, and relationships within the industry.

The episode sheds light on RAW's commitment to quality, community, and values-driven business practices. Tune in to gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of the specialty coffee industry in the Middle East.

EP 825 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Future of Coffee in the Middle East - Map It Forward Middle East Podcast

This is the 5th 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 final episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast series, host Lee Safar engages with Shireen and James from Bunni Coffee to discuss the future of coffee in the Middle East.

The conversation delves into the cultural significance of coffee, its deep-rooted traditions, and the emerging trends in the region's coffee market, with a focus on Jordan, the GCC (especially KSA and UAE), and beyond.

The episode also covers the growing awareness and shifts towards quality coffee in the Levant, the challenges and opportunities in the specialty coffee industry, and the importance of marrying good business practices with coffee expertise.

Additionally, they introduce the upcoming 'Start A Coffee Side Hustle' mastermind group launching in July, designed to help new coffee entrepreneurs navigate the industry.

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.

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