Takeaways Quality assurance is crucial in coffee roasting. Cupping is essential for coffee quality. You need to taste your own coffee. Cupping should be a priority in your business. Learn to cup, then cup to learn. Make cupping enjoyable and accessible. Invest in basic quality control tools. Cupping with peers enhances learning. Practice is key to improving your cupping skills. Production brewing can be more effective than cupping. Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Jul 02, 2025•55 min•Ep. 3
00:00 Introduction to Coffee Terminology 02:50 Understanding FOB and Its Importance 05:57 The Process of Coffee Stripping 09:05 Buying Forward: Securing Future Inventory 12:02 Defining Your Coffee Position 15:06 Delivery Orders and Their Role 17:49 Understanding NANS and Its Implications 21:10 Grain Pro: Enhancing Coffee Quality 23:56 The Role of the Green Coffee Association 27:12 Hedging: Managing Risk in Coffee Trading 27:54 Understanding Hedging in Coffee Trading 30:17 The Importance of Alloc...
Jun 24, 2025•55 min•Ep. 2
Takeaways Sam's background in coffee started with Dunkin' Donuts and coffee milk. Her first job in coffee was with coffee extracts. Marketing in coffee involves a variety of tasks and events. The coffee industry is heavily influenced by the people involved. Navigating market changes can be challenging for marketing efforts. Sam values the willingness of others to share knowledge in the coffee community. Covoya aims to be more present in the market and at events. The importance of storytelling in...
Jun 20, 2025•17 min•Ep. 17
Takeaways Rae Tran aims to uplift the quality of Vietnamese coffee. Karmic Circle Coffee Trading focuses on quality rather than quantity. Innovative processing methods are being introduced in Vietnam. The US market is diverse and seeks unique coffee offerings. Rae credits Miguel from Paradise for his mentorship. Vietnam is experiencing a mini Renaissance in specialty coffee. The company imports between three and five tons of coffee annually. Pre-orders help minimize risks for small operations. I...
Jun 17, 2025•17 min•Ep. 16
Takeaways The coffee industry thrives on personal connections and relationships. Attending coffee expos provides invaluable face time with suppliers and peers. Building trust is essential in the coffee business, especially when separated by distance. Newcomers to the coffee industry bring fresh excitement and perspectives. The evolution of coffee expos reflects changes in the industry and community dynamics. Sharing experiences and stories helps roasters learn and grow together. Networking at ex...
Jun 10, 2025•43 min•Ep. 41
Takeaways The absence of dark roast options in specialty is puzzling. 35% reported drinking dark roast, while only 12% light roast. Consumer preferences shift significantly after age 40. Dark roast consumption is higher among older demographics. Specialty coffee roasters should offer dark roasts for business growth. Good roasting skills are essential for quality dark roasts. The coffee industry has shifted towards lighter roasts in recent years. Understanding consumer preferences can drive bette...
Jun 05, 2025•9 min•Ep. 10
Coffee is a collaborative journey involving various stakeholders. Sustainability in coffee is not just a trend but a necessity. The coffee market is evolving, and so are consumer expectations. Entrepreneurship in coffee requires resilience and adaptability. The importance of community and relationships in the coffee industry cannot be overstated. The Cup of Excellence highlights the best in coffee but needs to support all farmers. Innovative solutions like biochar can help address climate issues...
Jun 03, 2025•31 min•Ep. 15
Packaging is both a marketing tool and a means to preserve freshness. The choice of packaging should reflect the coffee's intended market and distribution method. Simple and elegant packaging can be effective for local sales. Investing in quality packaging technology can enhance operational efficiency. Distinctive packaging helps brands stand out on crowded shelves. Understanding your brand identity is crucial for packaging decisions. Cost considerations are important when choosing packaging opt...
May 28, 2025•8 min•Ep. 9
00:00 Introduction to Coffee Journeys 02:59 Rachel's Coffee Origins and Career Path 06:01 Transitioning to Coffee Trading 08:58 The Impact of Coffee Quality and Sourcing 12:04 Exploring Coffee Preferences and Brewing Methods 15:08 Steve Cuevas and Freelance Coffee Project 18:10 Building Relationships in the Coffee Industry 20:54 Learning and Mentorship in Coffee Roasting 23:49 Coffee Trends and Market Insights 26:47 Show Highlights and Recommendations 29:47 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions...
May 23, 2025•35 min•Ep. 14
Takeaways Sepia Coffee Project is a black-owned roastery in Detroit. Martell Mason transitioned from coffee trading to roasting during the pandemic. The coffee market is volatile, but staying focused is key. Building relationships in the coffee community is essential. Transparency with partners helps navigate market challenges. Detroit has a growing coffee market with many opportunities. Sourcing diverse coffee blends is important for differentiation. Small businesses should prioritize their cor...
May 15, 2025•10 min•Ep. 8
The Proper Cap on Spotify The Proper Cap on Apple 00:00 Welcome to the Coffee Business Lounge 02:55 Introducing The Proper Cap Podcast 04:32 The Vision Behind The Proper Cap 08:26 The Exchange Podcast Journey 12:48 Navigating Challenges in the Coffee Industry 18:32 Teasing Future Episodes and Guests 25:34 The Espresso Experience: Crafting Perfection 28:05 Exploring Coffee Options: Tradition vs. Innovation 31:57 The Podcast Journey: Embracing Imperfection 34:51 Building Relationships: The Heart o...
May 13, 2025•49 min•Ep. 40
00:00 Introduction to Coffee Equipment Challenges 02:53 The Pressure of Providing Equipment to Retailers 06:03 Historical Context of Equipment Provisioning 08:49 Negotiating Equipment Deals with Clients 11:59 Structuring Contracts for Equipment Provisioning 15:10 The Importance of Equipment Maintenance 17:46 Navigating Risks in Equipment Financing 20:49 Alternative Strategies for Small Roasters 24:00 Understanding the Cost of Espresso Equipment 26:51 Exploring Distribution and Financing Options ...
May 09, 2025•47 min•Ep. 1
Takeaways There are two types of SAS contracts: SASNANS and SAS Replace. SASNANS allows roasters to hold coffee while waiting for samples. SAS Replace is used to hold a commitment for a type of coffee. Traders should be consulted about using SAS contracts effectively. SAS contracts help roasters access unique coffee offerings. Understanding SAS contracts can lead to better coffee quality. Roasters should not abuse SAS contracts to hoard coffee. Effective use of SAS contracts can differentiate su...
May 06, 2025•6 min•Ep. 7
Takeaways The Grow Guatemala event emphasizes sustainability and community support. OFI plays a crucial role in enhancing local health services. Educational initiatives include coffee kindergartens for children. The event will feature a farmer panel to discuss interconnectedness in coffee production. Sustainability projects are ongoing throughout the year, not just during harvest. Local health clinics are supported by Covoya and Funcafe. The event will include tastings of local Guatemalan ingred...
Apr 30, 2025•10 min•Ep. 6
It's essential to have a plan when attending the SCA Expo. Prioritize events and meetings to avoid buyer's remorse when you get home. Divide and conquer with your team to maximize learning. Don't try and tackle the entire exhibit floor in one day. Don't rely on chance encounters; plan to meet people. Evaluate the purpose of attending each event or party. Change your shoes to keep your feet comfortable. Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Apr 17, 2025•9 min•Ep. 5
takeaways Blending serves multiple purposes in the coffee industry. All coffee can be considered a blend in some form. Blending can appeal to a wider audience and create signature flavors. Economic factors play a crucial role in coffee blending decisions. Quality can be enhanced through thoughtful blending. Signature blends can become the cornerstone of a coffee brand. The market for coffee is evolving, and blending is a key strategy. Blending allows for flexibility in pricing and quality target...
Apr 16, 2025•39 min•Ep. 39
00:00 Introduction to Ana 03:04 Ana's Journey in Coffee 06:03 Transitioning to Coffee Trading 09:04 Navigating the Coffee Market 12:06 Building Relationships in Coffee 14:54 Memorable Origin Trips 17:59 Becoming a Trader at Covoya 21:03 Reflections on Career Growth Silver Spells by The Sugar Honey Iced Tea The Sugar Honey Tea on Spotify Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Apr 08, 2025•26 min•Ep. 13
Current green coffee prices are unprecedented in nominal dollars. The term 'unprecedented' can create unnecessary uncertainty. Inflation must be considered when discussing coffee prices. Historical prices show that coffee has survived similar challenges. The average price of green coffee has often run contrary to other costs. Specialty coffee roasters often fail to raise prices appropriately. Consumers have different price expectations for coffee compared to other goods. The coffee market has ex...
Mar 25, 2025•11 min•Ep. 9
00:00 Introduction to Origin Travel in Coffee 01:05 Personal Experiences: First Origin Trips 05:48 The Evolution of Origin Travel 11:51 The Importance of Relationship Building 16:03 Understanding the Role of Origin Travel 20:11 Costing and Budgeting for Origin Travel 23:01 Investing in Communities: Ethical Considerations 29:03 Navigating Suggestions and Expertise 32:15 Unforgettable Experiences in Coffee Travel 41:44 Closing Thoughts and Espresso Etiquette Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LIST...
Mar 18, 2025•54 min•Ep. 38
The Grow event allows attendees to experience an entire coffee region in one country. Networking opportunities with coffee producers and customers from around the world. Sustainability is a key focus, with educational presentations on carbon and water footprints. Logistics in Guatemala can be challenging but manageable with proper planning. Casa Santo Domingo offers a unique and beautiful venue for the event. Cupping sessions will include data on sustainability impacts of the coffees. A silent a...
Mar 13, 2025•15 min•Ep. 12
Takeaways Josh's journey into coffee began unexpectedly through a family coffee shop. Building relationships with roasters is a key aspect of being a trader. Quality control has played a significant role in Josh's understanding of coffee. Traveling to coffee origins has been a highlight of Josh's career. Memorable experiences include sensory summits in various countries. Josh values the collaborative nature of the coffee industry. His passion for coffee has remained strong over the years. Every ...
Mar 11, 2025•17 min•Ep. 11
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Another Cup Podcast 03:00 Brittany Amell's Journey in Coffee 05:53 The Impact of COVID-19 on Careers 08:58 Marketing and Education in the Coffee Industry 12:04 Lessons from Bloomingdale's 14:57 Team Dynamics and Sales Summit Insights 17:55 Personal Interests and Hobbies 21:04 Future Aspirations and Commitments Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Mar 04, 2025•25 min•Ep. 10
00:00 Welcome Back: Coffee Prices in Focus 02:57 Market Dynamics: Understanding Current Coffee Prices 06:12 The Impact of Climate Change on Coffee Production 09:04 Supply and Demand: The Future of Coffee Pricing 11:53 Raising Prices: Strategies for Roasters 15:11 Navigating Financial Challenges in the Coffee Industry 17:57 Consumer Behavior: Adapting to Price Changes 21:06 The Role of Technology in Coffee Production 23:52 The Future of Coffee: Sustainability and Adaptation 27:09 Conclusion: Embr...
Feb 26, 2025•54 min•Ep. 37
00:00 Introduction to Coffee Market Dynamics 01:07 Understanding the C Price and Market Forces 02:35 Current Trends in Coffee Pricing 05:28 Volatility in the Coffee Market 08:25 Harvest Forecasts and Market Speculation 12:44 Strategies for Small to Medium Roasters 16:04 Alternatives to Brazilian Coffee 19:26 Impact of Geopolitical Conflicts on Coffee Prices 21:23 The Viability of Robusta Coffee 22:52 Challenges Facing the Coffee Industry 26:13 Conclusion and Future Outlook Takeaways The C price ...
Dec 12, 2024•27 min
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Logistics 01:08 Colleen's Journey Through Logistics 04:42 Transitioning to Coffee Logistics 06:37 The Impact of COVID on Shipping 09:57 Advice for Coffee Roasters 11:49 The Community of Coffee Professionals 12:44 Surprising Experiences in Coffee Logistics 15:41 The Language of Shipping Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Nov 26, 2024•17 min•Ep. 9
You can call us at (888) 652-6872 Our Brazil Offerings TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Nov 20, 2024•8 min
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! 00:00 Introduction to Coffee Journeys 02:57 Angela's Coffee Career Path 06:01 Transitioning from Barista to Sales 08:58 Cultural Shifts in the Coffee Industry 12:08 Personal Interests and Hobbies 14:54 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans Visit and Explore Covoya! TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY...
Nov 19, 2024•18 min•Ep. 8
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! Takeaways The podcast explores the etymology of the word coffee. Etymology involves phonetic changes and linguistic borrowings. Hobson-Jobson is a key reference for English borrowings from Indian languages. The Arabic word for coffee is qahwah, which evolved into various forms. Skepticism exists regarding the connection between coffee and the Kaffa region. Historical figures like Sir James Murray contributed to the understanding of coffee's etymology. The debate among s...
Nov 12, 2024•34 min•Ep. 5
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! 00:00 Navigating the Coffee Supply Chain 02:54 Understanding Logistics Challenges 06:07 The Journey from Farm to Port 08:55 Risks During Transportation 11:50 Shipping and Container Challenges 15:07 Delays and Quality Control 17:52 Maritime Risks and Regulations 27:22 Challenges in Coffee Shipping and Storage 30:12 Navigating Port Operations and Delays 33:34 Customs Holds and Their Impact 40:14 Quality Control Upon Arrival 49:32 Understanding Risks in Coffee Logistics Vi...
Nov 08, 2024•55 min•Ep. 36
TAKE OUR LISTENER SURVEY! Liesa transitioned from the art world to coffee. Her role involves a lot of data management and systems. Collaboration is key in the coffee industry. Understanding the journey of coffee from farm to cup is crucial. The coffee industry has a rich history and community. Being adaptable is essential in her role. The importance of relationships in business cannot be overstated. Learning from colleagues enhances the work experience. Problem-solving is a significant part of h...
Oct 30, 2024•18 min•Ep. 7
