EP 1380 Yozo Otsuki - Expanding Kurasu Globally - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 5th of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward 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.

The Daily Coffee Pro, DCP25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar20 June 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Yozo Otsuki, Kurasu, JapanComment

EP 1379 Yozo Otsuki - Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 4th of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward 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.

The Daily Coffee Pro, DCP25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar19 June 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Yozo Otsuki, Kurasu, JapanComment

EP 1378 Yozo Otsuki - Building a Coffee Concept - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward 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.

The Daily Coffee Pro, DCP25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar18 June 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Yozo Otsuki, Kurasu, JapanComment

EP 1377 Yozo Otsuki - The Japanese Coffee Industry - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward 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.

The Daily Coffee Pro, DCP25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar17 June 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Yozo Otsuki, Kurasu, JapanComment

EP 1376 Yozo Otsuki - Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 1st of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward 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

The Daily Coffee Pro, DCP25 Yozo OtsukiLee Safar16 June 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Yozo Otsuki, Kurasu, JapanComment

EP 1375 Michael Sheridan - The Long-Term Focus for CQI - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 5th of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with Michael Sheridan from the CQI. Michael has joined us on the podcast to discuss the changes recently announced at SCA Expo in Houston regarding the licensing agreement of the Q grader program to the SCA and what it means moving forward.

In the final episode of this intensive series, Lee and Michael discuss the significant changes and future direction of CQI, amidst the various crises set to impact the coffee industry by 2025.

Michael provides insights into how CQI plans to navigate these challenges and maintain trust within the community.

This episode unpacks the critical role of quality in the coffee trade and what CQI is doing to uphold its mission despite the hurdles.

Don't miss this closing chapter filled with vital industry insights.

EP 1374 Michael Sheridan - What's Next For The CQI - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 4th of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with Michael Sheridan from the CQI. Michael has joined us on the podcast to discuss the changes recently announced at SCA Expo in Houston regarding the licensing agreement of the Q grader program to the SCA and what it means moving forward.

In this episode of the Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, host Lee Safar converses with Michael Sheridan about CQI's critical transition, immediate next steps after recent decisions, will the industry find a path back to trusting the CQI, and the broader impact on the coffee industry.

Sheridan details the four key processes involved in the transition phase, including the fast-track path for Q graders to the new Q system, the PHP program's curriculum review, and efforts to rebuild trust within the community.

They discuss organizational sentiments and the implications of the CQI-SCA relationship, while also touching on perceptions of the recent changes and the future roadmap.

EP 1373 Michael Sheridan - The Reaction to the Changes to the Q - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 3rd of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with Michael Sheridan from the CQI. Michael has joined us on the podcast to discuss the changes recently announced at SCA Expo in Houston regarding the licensing agreement of the Q grader program to the SCA and what it means moving forward.

In this episode of the Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee engages in a heated and detailed discussion with Michael Sheridan from the CQI.

They delve into the reasons and aftermath of the recent changes in CQI's licensing agreement with the SCA.

Michael clarifies the decision-making process, the lack of community consultation, and the subsequent reaction from the Q grading community.

This candid conversation aims to address the feelings of betrayal and distrust while providing insights into the future steps for the CQI.

Join us as we explore the complexities and challenges faced by the organization in this pivotal moment.

EP 1372 Michael Sheridan - The Agreement Between the SCA and the CQI - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the 2nd of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with Michael Sheridan from the CQI. Michael has joined us on the podcast to discuss the changes recently announced at SCA Expo in Houston regarding the licensing agreement of the Q grader program to the SCA and what it means moving forward.

In this in-depth episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Michael from the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI) discuss the significant changes at CQI, focusing on its mission to serve coffee producers and the implications of the recent agreement with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

They explore the historical context, the challenges faced by CQI, the financial considerations, and the details of the new licensing and grant agreements that shape the future of coffee quality standards.

Michael provides insights into the roles of both organizations, the importance of development projects, and the potential impact on the coffee industry at large.

EP 1371 Michael Sheridan - The History and Mission of the CQI - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This is the first of a five-part series on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward with Michael Sheridan from the CQI. Michael has joined us on the podcast to discuss the changes recently announced at SCA Expo in Houston regarding the licensing agreement of the Q grader program to the SCA and what it means moving forward.

Welcome to the first episode of The Daily Coffee Pro's new series featuring Michael Sheridan from the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI).

Lee and Michael engage in a profound discussion about the challenges faced over the last few months, the importance of hard conversations, and the impact of CQI's work on the coffee industry.

They delve into Michael's 20-year journey in coffee, his passion for development work, and the significance of CQI's mission: to improve both the quality of coffee and the lives of coffee producers.

The episode sets the stage for understanding the complexities of coffee quality, the role of the Q program, and the transformative effects of post-harvest processing innovations.

EP 1370 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Future of Coffee in the Middle East - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This week, the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast is also being syndicated to the Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.

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 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 1369 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Coffee Crisis and the Middle East - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This week, the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast is also being syndicated to the Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.

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 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 1368 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - Challenges of the Middle East Coffee Market - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This week, the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast is also being syndicated to the Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.

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 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 1367 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - Building a Values Driven Business in Jordan - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This week, the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast is also being syndicated to the Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.

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 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 1366 Shireen Muhaisen & James Lynes - The Middle East Coffee Landscape - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

This week, the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast is also being syndicated to the Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.

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 1365 Mark Bartlett - What's Eroding Demand For Quality in F&B? - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

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.

The Daily Coffee ProLee Safar30 May 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Tim Heinze, sca, Mark Bartlett, Bon AccordComment

EP 1364 Mark Bartlett - Is Quality Subjective? - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

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.

The Daily Coffee ProLee Safar29 May 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Tim Heinze, sca, Mark Bartlett, Bon AccordComment

EP 1363 Mark Bartlett - The Relationship Between Cost and Quality - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

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.

The Daily Coffee ProLee Safar28 May 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Tim Heinze, sca, Mark Bartlett, Bon AccordComment

EP 1362 Mark Bartlett - A Shift Away From Quality In F&B - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

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.

The Daily Coffee ProLee Safar27 May 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Tim Heinze, sca, Mark Bartlett, Bon AccordComment

EP 1361 Mark Bartlett - What Is Quality? - The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward

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.

The Daily Coffee ProLee Safar26 May 2025the daily coffee pro, Lee Safar, Tim Heinze, sca, Mark Bartlett, Bon AccordComment

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