EP 1394 George Howell - The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - 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 Boston-based 50-year coffee industry legend and CoE Co-Founder, George Howell from George Howell Coffee and The Coffee Connection.

This series is the 2025 edition of our annual series, "The Coffee Industry According to George Howell," where we explore various aspects of the industry from the perspective of one of the founders of the specialty coffee movement.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and George engage in a deep conversation about regenerative agriculture's role in the future of coffee farming.

They discuss the challenges farmers face, including climate change, labor shortages, and the fear of failure in adopting new agricultural methods.

The conversation also highlights the importance of quality in regenerative coffee and the potential impact of advanced technologies like drones and robotics in coffee farming.

Additionally, they touch upon the consumer's perspective on regenerative coffee and what it means for the coffee industry.

Tune in to learn about the dynamic changes shaping coffee farming and the importance of sustainable practices.

EP 1393 George Howell - Passing on Price Increases to Customers - 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 Boston-based 50-year coffee industry legend and CoE Co-Founder, George Howell from George Howell Coffee and The Coffee Connection.

This series is the 2025 edition of our annual series, "The Coffee Industry According to George Howell," where we explore various aspects of the industry from the perspective of one of the founders of the specialty coffee movement.

In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and George discuss the impact of rising coffee prices on the industry and whether these increases should be passed on to consumers.

George shares insights from his experiences dating back to 1975, including how the black frost in Brazil affected coffee prices and the subsequent impact on his business, Coffee Connection.

He details the challenges faced by small cafes and roasters in balancing quality and price, as well as the evolving landscape of specialty coffee.

As part of a five-part series, this episode also touches on the broader implications for the future of coffee prices and quality.

Stay tuned for the next episode where they will delve into the role of regenerative agriculture in coffee.

EP 1392 George Howell - Should Coffee Be Priced Differently? - 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 Boston-based 50-year coffee industry legend and CoE Co-Founder, George Howell from George Howell Coffee and The Coffee Connection.

This series is the 2025 edition of our annual series, "The Coffee Industry According to George Howell," where we explore various aspects of the industry from the perspective of one of the founders of the specialty coffee movement.

In this episode of this series, Lee and George discuss the complexities of coffee pricing, differentiating between green and roasted coffee, and the challenges small companies face in a capitalistic market.

George shares his experiences with wholesale and retail coffee businesses and the impact of market trends on pricing.

They also explore regenerative coffee farming and strategies to improve coffee quality and sustainability amidst ecological challenges.

EP 1391 George Howell - What is Quality? - 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 Boston-based 50-year coffee industry legend and CoE Co-Founder, George Howell from George Howell Coffee and The Coffee Connection.

This series is the 2025 edition of our annual series, "The Coffee Industry According to George Howell," where we explore various aspects of the industry from the perspective of one of the founders of the specialty coffee movement.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and George explore the concept of quality in coffee, emphasizing its importance both in taste and ethical cultivation.

George shares his journey from art to coffee, examining how his focus on authenticity and excellence has shaped his approach to the coffee business.

The conversation delves into cultural differences in coffee preferences, the evolution of quality over time, and the potential future of coffee amid growing challenges.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into what truly defines quality coffee.

EP 1390 Darrin Daniel - How to do Good Business - 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 coffee industry expert Darrin Daniel from Cityful Press Coffee Consulting.

Throughout this series, Lee and Darrin lay out the landscape of how the specialty coffee ecosystem eventuated and the landscape of coffee politics pre- and post-Houston.

In this episode of this podcast series, Lee and Darrin engage in a candid discussion about the critical issues plaguing the coffee industry today.

The conversation focuses on the 'dark side of the cycle' the industry is entering, emphasizing the survival challenges amidst controversies and distractions like the CVA.

They dissect the compounding crises in coffee production due to price fluctuation, logistics, labor shortages, and climate change.

Darrin shares his insights on potential future consolidations and mergers, the economic pressures faced by small roasters, and the grim predictions for coffee's future if immediate action isn't taken.

The episode closes on a hopeful note, urging the coffee community to acknowledge these pressing issues and strive for solutions.

Don't miss this final installment of a thought-provoking series.

EP 1389 Darrin Daniel - The Potential For Impact In Coffee - 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 coffee industry expert Darrin Daniel from Cityful Press Coffee Consulting.

Throughout this series, Lee and Darrin lay out the landscape of how the specialty coffee ecosystem eventuated and the landscape of coffee politics pre- and post-Houston.

In this episode of the series, Lee and Darrin discuss the complex politics within the coffee industry both pre and post-Houston, reflecting on potential opportunities to impact coffee positively.

The episode delves into the contentious comments made by Garfield Kerr, the president of the global SCA, and the implications it has for the coffee industry, particularly around the adoption of the CVA form and the Evolve Q program.

They also highlight pertinent issues such as the economic viability for coffee producers, the role of NGOs, and the importance of creating legitimate market bridges.

This engaging discussion further unpacks the crucial need for pragmatic solutions to elevate the coffee industry during volatile times.

EP 1388 Darrin Daniel - The Roots of SCA and CQI - 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 coffee industry expert Darrin Daniel from Cityful Press Coffee Consulting.

Throughout this series, Lee and Darrin lay out the landscape of how the specialty coffee ecosystem eventuated and the landscape of coffee politics pre- and post-Houston.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Darrin discuss the history and evolution of key coffee organizations: the Specialty Coffee Institute (SCI), the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), and the Coffee Quality Institute (CQI).

They delve into the initial goals and standards set by these organizations, their impact on the coffee industry, and the changes they have undergone over time.

The conversation also touches on the recent controversies and challenges, providing insights into how these organizations have shaped and been shaped by the global coffee scene.

EP 1387 Darrin Daniel - Do Coffee NonProfits/NGO's Help Producers? - 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 coffee industry expert Darrin Daniel from Cityful Press Coffee Consulting.

Throughout this series, Lee and Darrin lay out the landscape of how the specialty coffee ecosystem eventuated and the landscape of coffee politics pre- and post-Houston.

In this episode of The Daily Coffee Pro by Map It Forward, Lee and Darrin discuss the disparity in profitability and margins in the coffee industry.

They delve into the crucial roles of NGOs and nonprofits in supporting coffee producers, despite a commodified market and stagnating margins in producing countries.

The conversation explores the definitions and missions of such organizations, and highlights the importance of financial and technical support from entities like USAID.

The episode addresses the ongoing challenges faced by coffee producers and questions the sustainability of the current model, urging a reassessment of industry relationships and support mechanisms.

Join us for this insightful discussion on the impact and necessity of nonprofit interventions in the coffee sector.

EP 1386 Darrin Daniel - The Evolution of Specialty Coffee - 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 coffee industry expert Darrin Daniel from Cityful Press Coffee Consulting.

Throughout this series, Lee and Darrin lay out the landscape of how the specialty coffee ecosystem eventuated and the landscape of coffee politics pre- and post-Houston.

In this episode of the series, Lee and Darrin Daniel discuss the evolution of the specialty coffee industry over the past 30 years.

They explore the early days of specialty coffee, the key figures like Alfred Peet and George Howell, and how the industry has grown from a niche market to a mainstream phenomenon complete with competitions and commercial endeavors.

They also touch on the various economic challenges faced by coffee producers and set the stage for deeper discussions on the role of nonprofits and NGOs in the coffee sector.

EP 1385 Isabela Raposeiras - The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - 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 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

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

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 1384 Isabela Raposeiras - Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - 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 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

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 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 1383 Isabela Raposeiras - The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - 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 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

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 1382 Isabela Raposeiras - Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - 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 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

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 1381 Isabela Raposeiras - Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - 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 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.

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 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 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.