Podcast

  • Season 1, Episode 65: Exploring Soups, Cold Brew & The Essence of Flavors

    Episode Summary:
    In this introspective episode, I explore my complex relationship with soups and cold brew coffee. I draw fascinating parallels between these culinary experiences and different coffee brewing methods like pour overs, immersion, and espresso.

    The first paragraph provides an overview: I delve into why I find soups and cold brew underwhelming - it strips away the vibrant essence and personality I crave from ingredients. This leads to an engaging discussion contrasting the concentrated intensity of espresso with the more hollow nature of cold brew. I posit that techniques like pour overs best capture a coffee's true character.

    The second paragraph sets up what listeners can expect to learn: Buckle up for a thought-provoking ride as I resolve to experiment with making both a soup and sauce today. My aim? To maintain and enhance the ingredients' fundamental flavors rather than obscuring them. This pursuit unlocks broader insights about understanding my likes, dislikes, and how to bring out the best in any experience. Get ready to explore coffee, cooking, and life's wonders through a philosophical lens.
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  • Season 1, Episode 64: Troubleshooting Poor Coffee Roasts: Tips and Tricks

    Episode Summary:
    In this episode, I dive deep into the world of coffee brewing and roasting. I tackle the common belief that storytelling in content creation is overrated, instead focusing on delivering value to the audience. Through a vivid descriptive passage, I immerse listeners in the anticipation and letdown of receiving an underwhelming batch from a beloved coffee roaster.

    The core lesson revolves around troubleshooting and making the best of a subpar situation. I provide insights on adjusting brewing methods, identifying roast defects, and assessing whether to provide feedback or find a new roaster. Listeners will learn tips and tricks to salvage an unexpectedly poor coffee and walk away with renewed confidence in their brewing knowledge and skills. This episode equips coffee enthusiasts with a mindset of taking control when things don't go as planned.
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  • Season 1, Episode 63: Coffee Roasting Experiments & Consumer Experiences

    Episode Summary:
    In this episode, I dive deep into several relatable everyday experiences. First, I analyze a coffee roast that didn't turn out as expected, detailing the various roast levels tried and the brewing methods used to try salvaging the coffee's flavor. This provides insights into a roaster's thought process for experimentation and continuous improvement.

    I also share personal stories like firing my dentist over poor communication regarding a bill, as well as voicing frustration about changes to a magnesium supplement drink I enjoy. These anecdotes highlight the importance I place on being treated fairly as a consumer and having products maintain their original essence after updates. Finally, I ponder identifying my target market as likely being women, especially mothers, based on observations of their daily need for coffee.
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  • Season 1, Episode 62: The Craft Coffee Roaster's Insightful Philosophy

    Episode Summary:
    In this casual, conversational episode, I engage in a freeform discussion touching on various coffee-related topics. I share details about an accidental "pre-sale" experience where I offered free coffee and received orders before roasting, highlighting the efficiency of that model. I also explore the idea of relinquishing control over how people ultimately brew their coffee, accepting that variables like individual preferences and circumstances are out of my hands as the roaster.

    I contemplate the role of water quality in brewing, sharing an experiment using third wave water that seemed to enhance perceived sweetness. Throughout, I adopt a relaxed, introspective tone, allowing thoughts to meander from technical considerations to deeper ruminations on honesty, managing expectations, and focusing my efforts on what I can control in the coffee journey. Listeners can expect an insightful dive into the philosophy and human elements behind my craft coffee roasting.
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  • Season 1, Episode 61: Behind the Scenes

    Episode Summary:
    I. In this candid and conversational podcast episode, I take listeners behind-the-scenes into my life as an entrepreneur in the coffee industry. With a refreshingly authentic tone, I share insights into running an e-commerce coffee business, navigating the creative process of content creation, and the joys and challenges of pursuing one's passions.

    Through personal anecdotes and musings, listeners get a glimpse into my morning routine and how savoring a good cup of coffee provides a grounding moment amidst the hectic pace of life. The episode delves into my reflections on a specific coffee offering, the Honduras brew, exploring its unique flavor profile in a descriptive, sensory-rich manner.

    II. Beyond the discussions around coffee itself, I candidly open up about the realities of entrepreneurship and content creation. I touch on the hard work and dedication required for endeavors like podcasting and YouTube, providing an authentic perspective that both inspires and manages expectations. Listeners will gain insights into the logistics of running an e-commerce business, from roasting and fulfilling orders to determining shipping strategies.

    By the end of this podcast, listeners will have a deeper appreciation for the artistry, experimentation, and commitment behind bringing a specialty coffee experience to consumers. My genuine, relatable demeanor makes this episode feel like a casual conversation with a friend passionate about their craft.
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  • Season 1, Episode 60: Mexican Organic Coffee Tasting - Bright Acidity & Sweet Notes

    Episode Summary:
    In this episode, I take an in-depth look at a Mexican organic coffee. You'll learn what flavors and characteristics to expect from this particular coffee when brewed using different methods and drink preparations.

    I start by brewing the coffee using a V60 pour over at a 1:16.5 ratio, which is slightly weaker than my usual 1:15 brewing ratio. I taste the coffee black first to get a baseline of the flavors before adding cream. With the black coffee, I pick up a classic coffee flavor up front followed by pronounced lemon-like acidity in the aftertaste. There are also notes of apple-like sweetness that balance out the acidity somewhat.

    When tasted with added cream and sugar, the coffee takes on a more mellowed, approachable profile that I think most coffee drinkers would enjoy. The acidity is tamed, allowing the chocolate notes to come through more. I discuss how replicating typical at-home brewing and drinking methods is important for judging a coffee's mass appeal.

    Overall, this Mexican organic coffee delivers a balanced cup with bright lemon acidity complemented by sweet notes of chocolate and apple. It shines as an easy-drinking morning coffee but could also work as an afternoon pick-me-up for those looking for a flavor change of pace. With its fuller body, this coffee could also excel as a french press brew.
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