MAP IT FORWARD Middle East

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a 5-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia, owners of the Kurasu UAE franchise.In this series, David and Valeria help us understand the process they went through bringing a globally recognised franchise from Kyoto, Japan, to Dubai and the wider UAE. The five episodes of this series are:1. Bringing a Global Coffee Brand to Dubai - https://youtu.be/8MeB02Wlbfk2. Preparing To Launch a Coffee Franchise in Dubai - https://youtu.be/YAR_78VpKWM3. Launching the First Kurasu in Dubai - https://youtu.be/C1hT-njJJT84. Unexpected Challenges Launching in Dubai - https://youtu.be/zEoKxHNg2DM5. The Future of Specialty Coffee in the UAE - https://youtu.be/sTwXkqCs08gIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee, David, and Valeria discuss the challenges, the unexpected viral success, and the emotional and physical toll of opening their first store.Learn about their experience of building a dedicated team and the importance of being hands-on owners. Join us for insights into the hard work and rewarding moments that come with bringing a beloved coffee brand to the UAE.Connect with Kurasu DXB/UAE as well as David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia here:https://www.instagram.com/kurasudxb/https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeria-garcia-16a266176/https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidzabinsky/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a 5-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia, owners of the Kurasu UAE franchise.In this series, David and Valeria help us understand the process they went through bringing a globally recognised franchise from Kyoto, Japan, to Dubai and the wider UAE. The five episodes of this series are:1. Bringing a Global Coffee Brand to Dubai - https://youtu.be/8MeB02Wlbfk2. Preparing To Launch a Coffee Franchise in Dubai - https://youtu.be/YAR_78VpKWM3. Launching the First Kurasu in Dubai - https://youtu.be/C1hT-njJJT84. Unexpected Challenges Launching in Dubai - https://youtu.be/zEoKxHNg2DM5. The Future of Specialty Coffee in the UAE - https://youtu.be/sTwXkqCs08gIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee, David and Valeria discuss the critical steps of team building, including hiring criteria focused on experience, confidence, and a genuine appreciation for the Kurasu brand.The conversation also explores the challenges of finding the right location in a competitive market like Dubai, the unique aspects of the Dar Wasl area, and Kurasu's distinct culture of minimalistic and high-quality customer experience. Additionally, David and Valeria share their personal experiences, fears, and inspirations in bringing Kurasu to Dubai. For more insights and details, watch the full episode.Connect with Kurasu DXB/UAE as well as David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia here:https://www.instagram.com/kurasudxb/https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeria-garcia-16a266176/https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidzabinsky/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a 5-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia, owners of the Kurasu UAE franchise.In this series, David and Valeria help us understand the process they went through bringing a globally recognised franchise from Kyoto, Japan, to Dubai and the wider UAE. The five episodes of this series are:1. Bringing a Global Coffee Brand to Dubai - https://youtu.be/8MeB02Wlbfk2. Preparing To Launch a Coffee Franchise in Dubai - https://youtu.be/YAR_78VpKWM3. Launching the First Kurasu in Dubai - https://youtu.be/C1hT-njJJT84. Unexpected Challenges Launching in Dubai - https://youtu.be/zEoKxHNg2DM5. The Future of Specialty Coffee in the UAE - https://youtu.be/sTwXkqCs08gIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee, Valeria, and David discuss how their admiration for the Japanese coffee brand Kurasu led to their venture of bringing it to Dubai. From discovering Kurasu on YouTube to making the first contact with the founder Yozo Otsuki, and eventually visiting Kyoto to solidify their partnership, David and Valeria share their journey in detail. Topics include the saturated coffee market in Dubai, the couple's background, and their steps in opening the Kurasu franchise in the UAE. Stay tuned to learn the intricacies of navigating a new coffee business in a competitive environment.Connect with Kurasu DXB/UAE as well as David Zabinsky and Valeria Garcia here:https://www.instagram.com/kurasudxb/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeria-garcia-16a266176/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidzabinsky/ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a 5-part series with Reza Kosar, Co-Founder/Managing Partner of Slick Coffee Co. in Oman, on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.In this series, host Lee Safar and Reza (originally from Iran) explore what quality is in coffee.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Tools That Assess Coffee's Quality - https://youtu.be/NoIyvxIEKHY2. Defining Quality in the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/1B5XZbBgfoo3. Coffee Competition and Coffee Quality - https://youtu.be/848P1bhuVsk4. The CVA Isn't Solving Problems - https://youtu.be/a_SWpLql0FU5. The Future Technology of Coffee - https://youtu.be/7XaTBVLiNpoIn the final episode of this podcast series, Lee and Reza explore the future of the coffee industry and impact of advancing technology on roles like baristas, Q graders, and cuppers. They also touch on the emergence of brands like Luckin in the U.S. market and how social media could redefine coffee quality.With insights on technology, industry trends, and business advice, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what's ahead for coffee professionals.Connect with Reza Kosar and Slick Coffee Co. here:https://www.instagram.com/rezakosar_/https://www.instagram.com/slickcoffeeco/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezakosar/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a 5-part series with Reza Kosar, Co-Founder/Managing Partner of Slick Coffee Co. in Oman, on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.In this series, host Lee Safar and Reza (originally from Iran) explore what quality is in coffee.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Tools That Assess Coffee's Quality - https://youtu.be/NoIyvxIEKHY2. Defining Quality in the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/1B5XZbBgfoo3. Coffee Competition and Coffee Quality - https://youtu.be/848P1bhuVsk4. The CVA Isn't Solving Problems - https://youtu.be/a_SWpLql0FU5. The Future Technology of Coffee - https://youtu.be/7XaTBVLiNpoIn this episode of the podcast, Lee and Reza delve into the complexities of quality assessment in the coffee industry.They critically analyze the new Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) and its impact on the industry, questioning whether it resolves issues relating to centralized power, inequality, and the focus on the consumer side over producers. The conversation also touches on sensory science, the disparity in pay within the coffee supply chain, and the challenges posed by dynamic perceptions of quality. Tune in to explore these pressing issues and their implications for coffee producers and industry professionals.Connect with Reza Kosar and Slick Coffee Co. here:https://www.instagram.com/rezakosar_/https://www.instagram.com/slickcoffeeco/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezakosar/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a 5-part series with Reza Kosar, Co-Founder/Managing Partner of Slick Coffee Co. in Oman, on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.In this series, host Lee Safar and Reza (originally from Iran) explore what quality is in coffee.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Tools That Assess Coffee's Quality - https://youtu.be/NoIyvxIEKHY2. Defining Quality in the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/1B5XZbBgfoo3. Coffee Competition and Coffee Quality - https://youtu.be/848P1bhuVsk4. The CVA Isn't Solving Problems - https://youtu.be/a_SWpLql0FU5. The Future Technology of Coffee - https://youtu.be/7XaTBVLiNpoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Reza discuss the intricacies and impact of coffee competitions on the industry. They delve into how these competitions influence perceptions of quality, the limitations and challenges they introduce, and the bias that can occur during judging. The conversation also touches on the broader implications for baristas, the significance of these events within the industry, and why some professionals dedicate their resources to competitions. Additionally, the episode explores the controversial aspects surrounding the business side of these competitions and their actual benefit to the coffee community. Join us for an insightful discussion about the dynamic world of coffee competitions.Connect with Reza Kosar and Slick Coffee Co. here:https://www.instagram.com/rezakosar_/https://www.instagram.com/slickcoffeeco/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezakosar/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a 5-part series with Reza Kosar, Co-Founder/Managing Partner of Slick Coffee Co. in Oman, on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.In this series, host Lee Safar and Reza (originally from Iran) explore what quality is in coffee.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Tools That Assess Coffee's Quality - https://youtu.be/NoIyvxIEKHY2. Defining Quality in the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/1B5XZbBgfoo3. Coffee Competition and Coffee Quality - https://youtu.be/848P1bhuVsk4. The CVA Isn't Solving Problems - https://youtu.be/a_SWpLql0FU5. The Future Technology of Coffee - https://youtu.be/7XaTBVLiNpoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Reza explore the complex topic of defining quality in the coffee industry. The discussion delves into the various perspectives scientific, philosophical, and psychological on what constitutes quality. Reza shares insights on the struggles at Origin, the importance of recognizing the broader context of quality, and how cultural and personal biases come into play. They also touch on the necessity of multiple quality systems for different stakeholders in the coffee supply chain. Don't miss this compelling conversation as they unpack the intricate layers of quality in coffee.Connect with Reza Kosar and Slick Coffee Co. here:https://www.instagram.com/rezakosar_/https://www.instagram.com/slickcoffeeco/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezakosar/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a 5-part series with Reza Kosar, Co-Founder/Managing Partner of Slick Coffee Co. in Oman, on The Daily Coffee Pro Podcast by Map It Forward.In this series, host Lee Safar and Reza (originally from Iran) explore what quality is in coffee.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Tools That Assess Coffee's Quality - https://youtu.be/NoIyvxIEKHY2. Defining Quality in the Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/1B5XZbBgfoo3. Coffee Competition and Coffee Quality - https://youtu.be/848P1bhuVsk4. The CVA Isn't Solving Problems - https://youtu.be/a_SWpLql0FU5. The Future Technology of Coffee - https://youtu.be/7XaTBVLiNpoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Reza delve into the topic of quality in the coffee industry. In this episode, they discuss the various tools and methodologies used to assess coffee quality, from physical attributes to sensory evaluations. They also explore the subjective nature of quality and the challenges faced by coffee professionals in different regions. Learn about the importance of education and the role of human perception in defining coffee quality. Connect with Reza Kosar and Slick Coffee Co. here:https://www.instagram.com/rezakosar_/https://www.instagram.com/slickcoffeeco/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rezakosar/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.The five episodes in this series are:1. Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/UKxM0ITYqI02. The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/myibyDphWkc3. Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - https://youtu.be/mkJs_QL_VLs4. Owners and Staff in the UAE - https://youtu.be/z3dhuEBFqxA5. Trends in UAE Cafes - https://youtu.be/to3gfPmTikoIn this final episode of the podcast series, Lee Safar and Saeed discuss the impact of trends on the coffee industry in the UAE, highlighting how social media-driven trends like hot chocolate, matcha, and Labubu toys can significantly boost business. Saeed shares insights on the challenges and opportunities in the evolving coffee market, and they explore future trends like infused coffees and cold brew. Subscribe to the podcast to hear inspiring stories from values-driven entrepreneurs in the Middle East.Connect with Saeed Al Blooshi, El Matador Coffee Roasters, and Lama Cafe here:https://elmatadorcoffee.com/our-story.phphttps://www.instagram.com/elmatador.ae/https://www.instagram.com/lamacafe_ae/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.The five episodes in this series are:1. Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/UKxM0ITYqI02. The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/myibyDphWkc3. Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - https://youtu.be/mkJs_QL_VLs4. Owners and Staff in the UAE - https://youtu.be/z3dhuEBFqxA5. Trends in UAE Cafes - https://youtu.be/to3gfPmTikoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the disconnect between coffee shop owners and their staff in the UAE. Saeed shares stories about successful staff development, including the inspiring journey of Jerry from cleaner to barista. They also touch upon the importance of communication, vision, and investment in employee growth. Additionally, they discuss the unique staffing and cultural challenges in the UAE coffee industry and how fostering a good team culture can transform a business. The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into the final episode of this series, focusing on the role of trends in the coffee industry.Connect with Saeed Al Blooshi, El Matador Coffee Roasters, and Lama Cafe here:https://elmatadorcoffee.com/our-story.phphttps://www.instagram.com/elmatador.ae/https://www.instagram.com/lamacafe_ae/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.The five episodes in this series are:1. Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/UKxM0ITYqI02. The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/myibyDphWkc3. Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - https://youtu.be/mkJs_QL_VLs4. Owners and Staff in the UAE - https://youtu.be/z3dhuEBFqxA5. Trends in UAE Cafes - https://youtu.be/to3gfPmTikoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the challenges faced by cafe owners in the UAE's coffee industry.They explore the lack of involvement from owners in their businesses, issues arising from poor supply chain understanding, and the impact of inconsistent sourcing decisions. The episode highlights the importance of understanding the coffee supply chain, building strong relationships with suppliers, and involving staff in the business for long-term success. Tune in to learn more about the complexities of managing a coffee business in the UAE.Connect with Saeed Al Blooshi, El Matador Coffee Roasters, and Lama Cafe here:https://elmatadorcoffee.com/our-story.phphttps://www.instagram.com/elmatador.ae/https://www.instagram.com/lamacafe_ae/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: • https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward• https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: • https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here:• https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list:• https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.The five episodes in this series are:1. Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/UKxM0ITYqI02. The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/myibyDphWkc3. Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - https://youtu.be/mkJs_QL_VLs4. Owners and Staff in the UAE - https://youtu.be/z3dhuEBFqxA5. Trends in UAE Cafes - https://youtu.be/to3gfPmTikoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the coffee crisis in the UAE.They explore the booming demand for quality coffee and the intense competition in the market. Saeed shares insights on starting and growing a coffee business, the importance of clear identity and long-term vision, and the challenges around staffing and green coffee supply. This episode is part of a five-part series focusing on building a successful coffee business in the UAE.Connect with Saeed Al Blooshi, El Matador Coffee Roasters, and Lama Cafe here:https://elmatadorcoffee.com/our-story.phphttps://www.instagram.com/elmatador.ae/https://www.instagram.com/lamacafe_ae/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with Saeed Al Blooshi, the Emirati founder of El Matador Coffee Roasters and Lama Cafe, based in Abu Dhabi, UAE.In this series, host Lee Safar and Saeed explore the insights of what it is to build a coffee business in the UAE.The five episodes in this series are:1. Changes in the UAE Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/UKxM0ITYqI02. The UAE and the Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/myibyDphWkc3. Business Owners and the Coffee Supply Chain - https://youtu.be/mkJs_QL_VLs4. Owners and Staff in the UAE - https://youtu.be/z3dhuEBFqxA5. Trends in UAE Cafes - https://youtu.be/to3gfPmTikoIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Saeed discuss the evolution of the coffee industry in the UAE, emphasizing the shift from commercial to specialty coffee cultures, the rise of local roasters, and the increasing consumer knowledge and expectations. Saeed shares his journey, from starting with a small coffee roasting setup to operating successful cafes and a roastery. They also set the stage for future episodes in the series by hinting at upcoming discussions on the coffee crisis in the UAE. Join us for an insightful look into the craft of coffee and the challenges of building a coffee business in the UAE.Connect with Saeed Al Blooshi, El Matador Coffee Roasters, and Lama Cafe here:https://elmatadorcoffee.com/our-story.php https://www.instagram.com/elmatador.ae/ https://www.instagram.com/lamacafe_ae/ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/NAn14_81A1E2. Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/Hfy24ikMnlM3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/Ph4IiAV30LM4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/CowcRniNhUQ5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/WsMz_n7-2XUIn 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.Connect with Isabela Raposeiras and Coffee Lab here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabela-raposeiras-coffee-lab/https://www.instagram.com/coffeelab_br/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/NAn14_81A1E2. Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/Hfy24ikMnlM3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/Ph4IiAV30LM4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/CowcRniNhUQ5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/WsMz_n7-2XUIn this episode of the podcast, 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.Connect with Isabela Raposeiras and Coffee Lab here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabela-raposeiras-coffee-lab/https://www.instagram.com/coffeelab_br/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/NAn14_81A1E2. Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/Hfy24ikMnlM3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/Ph4IiAV30LM4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/CowcRniNhUQ5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/WsMz_n7-2XUIn 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.Connect with Isabela Raposeiras and Coffee Lab here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabela-raposeiras-coffee-lab/https://www.instagram.com/coffeelab_br/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/NAn14_81A1E2. Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/Hfy24ikMnlM3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/Ph4IiAV30LM4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/CowcRniNhUQ5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/WsMz_n7-2XUIn 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.Connect with Isabela Raposeiras and Coffee Lab here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabela-raposeiras-coffee-lab/https://www.instagram.com/coffeelab_br/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, with 25-year coffee industry veteran Isabela Raposeiras from Coffee Lab in Brazil.This series first aired on the Map It Forward Global Podcast in June 2025.In this series, Lee and Isabela explore the lesser-discussed aspects of Brazil as a coffee-producing country.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Misconceptions About Brazil's Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/NAn14_81A1E2. Brazil's Specialty Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/Hfy24ikMnlM3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/Ph4IiAV30LM4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/CowcRniNhUQ5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/WsMz_n7-2XUIn this episode of the podcast, 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.Connect with Isabela Raposeiras and Coffee Lab here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabela-raposeiras-coffee-lab/ https://www.instagram.com/coffeelab_br/ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast 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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - https://youtu.be/6N6dEoLdFsQ2. The Japanese Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/o2AV2fE1dp43. Building a Coffee Concept - https://youtu.be/kP1Sf88qzyI4. Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - https://youtu.be/1LPOy8U8QyA5. Expanding Kurasu Globally - https://youtu.be/x2mDZkAfUYkIn 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.You can find out more about Map It Forward Japan at https://mapitforward.coffee/japan and https://instagram.com/mapitforwardjapanConnect with Yozo Otsuki and Kurasu here:https://kurasu.kyoto/https://www.instagram.com/kurasu.kyoto/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yozo-otsuki-84a13047/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast 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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - https://youtu.be/6N6dEoLdFsQ2. The Japanese Coffee Industry - https://youtu.be/o2AV2fE1dp43. Building a Coffee Concept - https://youtu.be/kP1Sf88qzyI4. Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - https://youtu.be/1LPOy8U8QyA5. Expanding Kurasu Globally - https://youtu.be/x2mDZkAfUYkIn 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.You can find out more about Map It Forward Japan at https://mapitforward.coffee/japan and https://instagram.com/mapitforwardjapanConnect with Yozo Otsuki and Kurasu here:https://kurasu.kyoto/https://www.instagram.com/kurasu.kyoto/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yozo-otsuki-84a13047/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforward Check out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshops Consider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoaching Join our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast 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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - https://youtu.be/6N6dEoLdFsQ2. The Japanese Coffee Industry - 3. Building a Coffee Concept - 4. Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - 5. Expanding Kurasu Globally - 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.You can find out more about Map It Forward Japan at https://mapitforward.coffee/japan and https://instagram.com/mapitforwardjapanConnect with Yozo Otsuki and Kurasu here:https://kurasu.kyoto/https://www.instagram.com/kurasu.kyoto/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yozo-otsuki-84a13047/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast 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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - https://youtu.be/6N6dEoLdFsQ2. The Japanese Coffee Industry - 3. Building a Coffee Concept - 4. Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - 5. Expanding Kurasu Globally - 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.You can find out more about Map It Forward Japan at https://mapitforward.coffee/japan and https://instagram.com/mapitforwardjapanConnect with Yozo Otsuki and Kurasu here:https://kurasu.kyoto/https://www.instagram.com/kurasu.kyoto/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yozo-otsuki-84a13047/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 1st of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast 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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Becoming a Japanese Coffee Entrepreneur - https://youtu.be/6N6dEoLdFsQ2. The Japanese Coffee Industry - 3. Building a Coffee Concept - 4. Growing Kurasu Beyond Homewares - 5. Expanding Kurasu Globally - 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/mapitforwardjapanConnect with Yozo Otsuki and Kurasu here:https://kurasu.kyoto/https://www.instagram.com/kurasu.kyoto/https://www.linkedin.com/in/yozo-otsuki-84a13047/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.The five episodes in this series are:1. Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - https://youtu.be/AX-Rdf-oC242. The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmers' Success - https://youtu.be/gBkGi-_HdnY3. The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - https://youtu.be/Fh5kHe0E26w4. Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - https://youtu.be/dOvCXgXLtRI5. Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - https://youtu.be/SjCULYTXt0IIn the final episode of this series, Lee and Angela discuss the dire state and uncertain future of coffee and cacao farming.The episode covers the aging plantations, economic difficulties, climate change impacts, and the shift towards illegal crops like coca. Angela shares her experiences with regenerative agriculture and the importance of stable, long-term business relationships. Learn about the urgent need for coffee industry stakeholders to adapt to ensure sustainability and protect the income of future generations.Connect with Angela Barrero here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-del-pilar-barrero-bernal-460107a1/https://www.instagram.com/bodegadelafinca/https://www.instagram.com/cafetiolita/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.The five episodes in this series are:1. Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - https://youtu.be/AX-Rdf-oC24 2. The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmers' Success - https://youtu.be/gBkGi-_HdnY3. The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - https://youtu.be/Fh5kHe0E26w 4. Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - https://youtu.be/dOvCXgXLtRI 5. Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - https://youtu.be/SjCULYTXt0I In episode four of our five-part series with Angela, we explore the volatile pricing in the coffee and cacao markets. Lee and Angela discuss the impact of inflation on coffee prices, the historical and current issues affecting cacao supply, and the economic difficulties faced by farmers.Despite high global demand, many farmers are struggling to sustain their operations due to low market prices and high production costs, driving some to reconsider their livelihoods.This episode sheds light on the challenges and the uncertain future of coffee and cacao farming.Connect with Angela Barrero here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-del-pilar-barrero-bernal-460107a1/https://www.instagram.com/bodegadelafinca/https://www.instagram.com/cafetiolita/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.The five episodes in this series are:1. Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - https://youtu.be/AX-Rdf-oC24 2. The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmers' Success - https://youtu.be/gBkGi-_HdnY3. The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - https://youtu.be/Fh5kHe0E26w 4. Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - https://youtu.be/dOvCXgXLtRI 5. Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - https://youtu.be/SjCULYTXt0I In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East podcast, Lee and Angela discuss the challenges of growing coffee and cacao due to climate change and the decrease in the agricultural workforce.She introduces regenerative agriculture as a solution to enhance soil life, ensure better yields, and create sustainable farming practices. Angela explains the essential role of microbiology in soil and how techniques like biochar and compost tea contribute to healthy plant growth.She emphasizes the importance of creating optimal conditions for plants to thrive and the long-term investment in soil health. Learn about practical applications of regenerative agriculture and how it can be implemented worldwide, including in arid regions like Saudi Arabia and Yemen.Connect with Angela Barrero here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-del-pilar-barrero-bernal-460107a1/https://www.instagram.com/bodegadelafinca/https://www.instagram.com/cafetiolita/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.The five episodes in this series are:1. Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - https://youtu.be/AX-Rdf-oC24 2. The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmers' Success - https://youtu.be/gBkGi-_HdnY3. The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - https://youtu.be/Fh5kHe0E26w 4. Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - https://youtu.be/dOvCXgXLtRI 5. Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - https://youtu.be/SjCULYTXt0I In this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee and Angela discuss the transition to regenerative agriculture on her coffee and cacao farm, the challenges faced by coffee farmers, and the importance of creating a sustainable business model. Learn about cash crops, the critical role of knowledge in farming, and how innovative practices can lead to a thriving farming ecosystem. This episode is part of a five-part series aimed at addressing the future of coffee farming amidst rising costs and climate change.Connect with Angela Barrero here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-del-pilar-barrero-bernal-460107a1/https://www.instagram.com/bodegadelafinca/https://www.instagram.com/cafetiolita/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber for early access to the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/mapitforwardCheck out our on-demand workshops here: https://mapitforward.coffee/workshopsConsider joining one of our Mastermind Groups here: https://mapitforward.coffee/groupcoachingJoin our mailing list: https://mapitforward.coffee/mailinglist••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with this week's guest, Colombian Regenerative Coffee and Cacao Farmer, Angela Barrero.In this series, Angela and podcast host Lee Safar explore the complicated question "Will We Have Coffee and Cacao in the Future?" and the equally complicated solutions.The five episodes in this series are:1. Why is it Getting Harder To Grow Coffee? - https://youtu.be/AX-Rdf-oC24 2. The Many Barriers to Coffee Farmers' Success - https://youtu.be/gBkGi-_HdnY3. The Role of Regenerative Agriculture in Coffee - https://youtu.be/Fh5kHe0E26w 4. Other Solutions We Need To Fix Coffee - https://youtu.be/dOvCXgXLtRI 5. Will there be coffee and cacao in 25 years? - https://youtu.be/SjCULYTXt0I In this first episode of the series, Lee and Angela discuss the significant challenges facing coffee and cacao farming today compared to five years ago, highlighting the impact of climate change, high mortality rates of coffee trees, and deforestation.The episode also covers Angela's family's legacy in coffee farming and their shift towards regenerative agriculture. Tune in to understand the risks, the history, and the future of coffee and cacao farming.Connect with Angela Barrero here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-del-pilar-barrero-bernal-460107a1/https://www.instagram.com/bodegadelafinca/https://www.instagram.com/cafetiolita/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Wayel Al Wohaibi, co-founder of Sulalat based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar, and Wayel discuss the genesis of the Saudi specialty coffee market and it's future.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Genesis Saudi Specialty Coffee - https://youtu.be/nI5krdiOKnE2. Discovering The Saudi Cultural Palate - https://youtu.be/1Mz-vmm8dPU3. Running a Business in Saudi - https://youtu.be/NmDxkiuTuzg4. The Future of Saudi Arabia as an Origin Country - https://youtu.be/QhcIfVSnz9E5. How to do Good Business - https://youtu.be/zdZUxa3Og_UIn this final episode of a five-part series, Lee and Wayel discuss key strategies for building a successful specialty coffee business. Wayel shares insights on the importance of not competing with your customers, offering support and financial consulting, and maintaining high standards of quality. He highlights the challenges faced in the coffee industry, such as imitation products, and the necessity of collaborating with trusted distributors. The episode underscores the significance of creating a holistic premium experience for consumers and not compromising on quality. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge from Wayel's experiences and learn how to build a sustainable and respected coffee business.Connect with Wayel Al Wohaibi and Sulalat here:https://sulalat.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wayel-al-wohaibi-b574a04/https://www.instagram.com/wesulalat/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Wayel Al Wohaibi, co-founder of Sulalat based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar, and Wayel discuss the genesis of the Saudi specialty coffee market and it's future.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Genesis Saudi Specialty Coffee - https://youtu.be/nI5krdiOKnE2. Discovering The Saudi Cultural Palate - https://youtu.be/1Mz-vmm8dPU3. Running a Business in Saudi - https://youtu.be/NmDxkiuTuzg4. The Future of Saudi Arabia as an Origin Country - https://youtu.be/QhcIfVSnz9E5. How to do Good Business - https://youtu.be/zdZUxa3Og_UIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Wayel delve into the historical significance of coffee in Jazan, recent government initiatives like Vision 2030, and the challenges and potential of Saudi coffee as a burgeoning origin. Wayel shares personal anecdotes, the importance of quality control, and comparison with Yemeni coffee. The episode emphasizes the growth of specialty coffee in Saudi Arabia and the vision for its future on the world stage.Connect with Wayel Al Wohaibi and Sulalat here:https://sulalat.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wayel-al-wohaibi-b574a04/https://www.instagram.com/wesulalat/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Wayel Al Wohaibi, co-founder of Sulalat based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar, and Wayel discuss the genesis of the Saudi specialty coffee market and it's future.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Genesis Saudi Specialty Coffee - https://youtu.be/nI5krdiOKnE2. Discovering The Saudi Cultural Palate - https://youtu.be/1Mz-vmm8dPU3. Running a Business in Saudi - https://youtu.be/NmDxkiuTuzg4. The Future of Saudi Arabia as an Origin Country - https://youtu.be/QhcIfVSnz9E5. How to do Good Business - https://youtu.be/zdZUxa3Og_UIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Wayel delve into the unique coffee culture of Saudi Arabia. They discuss the traditional methods of coffee preparation, the differences across the Middle Eastern region, and the impact of the specialty coffee industry. Wayel shares personal anecdotes about his upbringing and the rituals of serving coffee, as well as insights into the specialty coffee market and Sulalat's approach to roasting and customer service. They also talk about the entrepreneurial spirit in Saudi Arabia and the involvement of business owners in the coffee industry. Stay tuned for the next episode where they will explore Saudi Arabia as an emerging coffee origin.Connect with Wayel Al Wohaibi and Sulalat here:https://sulalat.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wayel-al-wohaibi-b574a04/https://www.instagram.com/wesulalat/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Wayel Al Wohaibi, co-founder of Sulalat based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar, and Wayel discuss the genesis of the Saudi specialty coffee market and it's future.The first episodes in this series are:1. The Genesis Saudi Specialty Coffee - https://youtu.be/nI5krdiOKnE2. Discovering The Saudi Cultural Palate - https://youtu.be/1Mz-vmm8dPU3. Running a Business in Saudi - https://youtu.be/NmDxkiuTuzg4. The Future of Saudi Arabia as an Origin Country - https://youtu.be/QhcIfVSnz9E5. How to do Good Business - https://youtu.be/zdZUxa3Og_UIn this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Wayel discuss the Saudi specialty coffee market and the unique challenges faced in catering to different cultural palates.Wayel shares his journey from tasting specialty coffee abroad to establishing a successful coffee brand in Saudi Arabia. They delve into the nuances of customer preferences, the impact of coffee auctions, the role of cultural and genetic differences in flavor profiles, and the importance of creating region-specific cupping forms. This insightful conversation also touches on the differing views of quality within the global coffee industry.Connect with Wayel Al Wohaibi and Sulalat here:https://sulalat.com/enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/wayel-al-wohaibi-b574a04/https://www.instagram.com/wesulalat/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Wayel Al Wohaibi, co-founder of Sulalat based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Map It Forward Founder, Lee Safar, and Wayel discuss the genesis of the Saudi specialty coffee market and it's future.The first episodes in this series are:1. The Genesis Saudi Specialty Coffee - https://youtu.be/nI5krdiOKnE2. Discovering The Saudi Cultural Palate - https://youtu.be/1Mz-vmm8dPU 3. Running a Business in Saudi - https://youtu.be/NmDxkiuTuzg 4. The Future of Saudi Arabia as an Origin Country - https://youtu.be/QhcIfVSnz9E 5. How to do Good Business - https://youtu.be/zdZUxa3Og_U In this episode of the podcast series, Lee and Wayel discuss the journey of Saudi Arabia's specialty coffee industry from its inception to its promising future. Wayel, a retired software engineer with a deep passion for coffee, shares how his hobby turned into a significant business, navigating challenges like coffee supply, infrastructure, and meeting customer demands. Join us for an in-depth conversation about launching a specialty coffee business in Saudi Arabia, the importance of cultural palette, and building relationships with farmers. Connect with Wayel Al Wohaibi and Sulalat here:https://sulalat.com/en https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayel-al-wohaibi-b574a04/ https://www.instagram.com/wesulalat/ ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Osamah Alawwam, co-founder of The Roasting House based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Osamah and Lee explore the challenges of running a business in the Middle East.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. A Coffee Entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia - https://youtu.be/tYt8XGBApxg2. Building The Roasting House - https://youtu.be/RuFGBUCSoUw3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/ngSV0QKHdkc4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/7j11s2LkjEc5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/lCHADKasV3oIn this final episode of the series, Lee and Osamah discuss the critical challenges and opportunities faced by the coffee industry, particularly in the Middle East.They address the alarming forecast that coffee may disappear by 2050 due to climate change and geopolitical issues. They speak about the significant decrease in coffee production, the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices, and the role of innovative methods like co-fermentation in improving coffee quality. The conversation also covers initiatives in Saudi Arabia to grow resilient coffee varieties and the potential for regenerative agriculture. Osamah shares his hopes for the future and emphasizes the importance of solving the root causes threatening coffee production.Connect with Osamah Alawwam and The Roasting House here:https://www.instagram.com/roastinghousesa/https://www.instagram.com/oalawwam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/oalawwam/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Osamah Alawwam, co-founder of The Roasting House based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Osamah and Lee explore the challenges of running a business in the Middle East.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. A Coffee Entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia - https://youtu.be/tYt8XGBApxg2. Building The Roasting House - https://youtu.be/RuFGBUCSoUw3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/ngSV0QKHdkc4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/7j11s2LkjEc5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/lCHADKasV3oIn this episode of the series, Lee and Osamah discuss the cultural barriers and challenges faced by business owners in the Middle Eastern specialty coffee industry.They cover difficulties such as initiating customer interactions across genders, the impact of cultural awareness, and the importance of owner involvement in the success of businesses. The episode also touches upon the role of social media in the coffee industry and delves into generational business dynamics and the complexities of entrepreneurship.Connect with Osamah Alawwam and The Roasting House here:https://www.instagram.com/roastinghousesa/https://www.instagram.com/oalawwam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/oalawwam/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Osamah Alawwam, co-founder of The Roasting House based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Osamah and Lee explore the challenges of running a business in the Middle East.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. A Coffee Entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia - https://youtu.be/tYt8XGBApxg2. Building The Roasting House - https://youtu.be/RuFGBUCSoUw3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/ngSV0QKHdkc4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/7j11s2LkjEc5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/lCHADKasV3oIn this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee Safar and Osamah discuss the multifaceted challenges and opportunities within the Middle Eastern business ecosystems. They explore issues like saudiization, the global financial crisis, and the impact of COVID-19 on the coffee industry. Osamah shares insights on how the coffee business can navigate difficulties, adapt to logistical issues, and embrace local talent. Additionally, they highlight the cultural challenges of employing locals in roles such as baristas and the immense professional growth available within the coffee industry. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics shaping the Middle Eastern coffee scene and valuable lessons on resilience and innovation.Connect with Osamah Alawwam and The Roasting House here:https://www.instagram.com/roastinghousesa/https://www.instagram.com/oalawwam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/oalawwam/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 2nd of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Osamah Alawwam, co-founder of The Roasting House based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Osamah and Lee explore the challenges of running a business in the Middle East.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. A Coffee Entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia - https://youtu.be/tYt8XGBApxg2. Building The Roasting House - https://youtu.be/RuFGBUCSoUw3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/ngSV0QKHdkc4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/7j11s2LkjEc5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/lCHADKasV3oIn this episode of the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast, Lee and Osamah discuss how he built the Roasting House business with a vision to elevate coffee standards and spread specialty coffee culture. From starting with a small shop to creating a community-driven coffee scene, Osamah shares insights on the role of education, market research, and the impact of the Saudi Vision 2030 on business development. Join us as we explore the challenges and triumphs of establishing a successful coffee business in the Middle East.Connect with Osamah Alawwam and The Roasting House here:https://www.instagram.com/roastinghousesa/https://www.instagram.com/oalawwam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/oalawwam/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the first of a five-part series on the Map It Forward Middle East Podcast with Osamah Alawwam, co-founder of The Roasting House based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.In this series, Osamah and Lee explore the challenges of running a business in the Middle East.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. A Coffee Entrepreneur in Saudi Arabia - https://youtu.be/tYt8XGBApxg 2. Building The Roasting House - https://youtu.be/RuFGBUCSoUw 3. The Role Of Specialty Coffee In Brazil - https://youtu.be/ngSV0QKHdkc 4. Converting Brazilians to Specialty Coffee Drinkers - https://youtu.be/7j11s2LkjEc 5. The Sins of the Past for Brazilian Coffee - https://youtu.be/lCHADKasV3oIn this episode, Lee Safar introduces Osamah Alawwam from Roasting House, a significant figure in the Middle Eastern coffee industry. Osamah shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing how he transitioned from the corporate world to starting his own coffee business in Saudi Arabia. He emphasizes the importance of finding the right financial and intellectual partners, and the challenges he faced in sourcing quality green beans. The conversation also touches on the evolving business landscape in Saudi Arabia and the impact of global geopolitical events on the coffee industry.Connect with Osamah Alawwam and The Roasting House here:https://www.instagram.com/roastinghousesa/https://www.instagram.com/oalawwam/https://www.linkedin.com/in/oalawwam/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 5th 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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Middle East Coffee Brands Are Innovating - https://youtu.be/tCqW8OyNIdo 2. What We're Getting Wrong Building Coffee Brands - https://youtu.be/iWPiFRf7aUU 3. How to Build Your Coffee Business Right - https://youtu.be/U74SoHsTZ-o 4. Current Coffee Crisis In The Middle East - https://youtu.be/1MO9KsMuhKY 5. Growth In The Region During The Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/ThBm_wle0m8 In this episode, Lee and Mohamad discussion focuses on the impact of the ongoing coffee crisis on the growth of the coffee industry in the Middle East. Topics include the challenges posed by climate change, supply chain issues, and economic instability. The conversation also touches on the importance of transparency, sustainability, and risk management, as well as the potential for growth and innovation in the face of adversity.Additionally, an exciting announcement is made about Map It Forward Japan, highlighting new resources for the Japanese coffee industry.Connect with Mohamad Merhi and Cypher Urban Roasters at:https://instagram.com/by_cypherhttps://www.bycypher.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 4th 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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Middle East Coffee Brands Are Innovating - https://youtu.be/tCqW8OyNIdo 2. What We're Getting Wrong Building Coffee Brands - https://youtu.be/iWPiFRf7aUU 3. How to Build Your Coffee Business Right - https://youtu.be/U74SoHsTZ-o 4. Current Coffee Crisis In The Middle East - https://youtu.be/1MO9KsMuhKY 5. Growth In The Region During The Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/ThBm_wle0m8 In this episode, Lee and Mohamad discuss the significant impact of recent coffee price increases on different coffee brands in the Middle East. Learn about the challenges faced by both mature and immature markets, the importance of direct relationships with producers, and how businesses are adjusting to price volatility. Understand the new dynamics of the coffee market, including shifts in consumer behavior and strategy adjustments in response to the coffee crisis. Ideal for anyone involved in or interested in the coffee industry, this episode offers critical insights and practical advice on thriving amidst market fluctuations.Connect with Mohamad Merhi and Cypher Urban Roasters at:https://instagram.com/by_cypherhttps://www.bycypher.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••This is the 3rd 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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. Middle East Coffee Brands Are Innovating - https://youtu.be/tCqW8OyNIdo 2. What We're Getting Wrong Building Coffee Brands - https://youtu.be/iWPiFRf7aUU 3. How to Build Your Coffee Business Right - https://youtu.be/U74SoHsTZ-o 4. Current Coffee Crisis In The Middle East - https://youtu.be/1MO9KsMuhKY 5. Growth In The Region During The Coffee Crisis - https://youtu.be/ThBm_wle0m8 In this episode, Lee and Mohamad dive into the key elements of building a successful coffee brand in the Middle East, with a focus on cultural fluency, consistency, and storytelling.Discover the importance of maintaining brand values even during crises and how a values-driven approach can positively impact the entire value chain in the coffee industry. Learn how Cypher Coffee Roasters exemplifies conscious capitalism and the significance of sticking to core principles for long-term success. Don't miss out on practical insights and strategies to navigate the challenges in the coffee industry.Connect with Mohamad Merhi and Cypher Urban Roasters at:https://instagram.com/by_cypherhttps://www.bycypher.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.Connect with Mohamad Merhi and Cypher Urban Roasters at:https://instagram.com/by_cypherhttps://www.bycypher.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.Connect with Mohamad Merhi and Cypher Urban Roasters at:https://instagram.com/by_cypherhttps://www.bycypher.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Who is RAW Coffee Company? - https://youtu.be/SRtjwb-zcwg2. Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - https://youtu.be/JJw6desk30I3. The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - https://youtu.be/RUPTXpC2ZnU4. Coffee Business Is Complex - https://youtu.be/vG3fSxvNumU5. How to Remain Relevant in Coffee - https://youtu.be/jOD7ECpLx4wIn 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.Connect with RAW Coffee Company here:• https://www.instagram.com/rawcoffeecompany/• https://rawcoffeecompany.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Who is RAW Coffee Company? - https://youtu.be/SRtjwb-zcwg2. Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - https://youtu.be/JJw6desk30I3. The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - https://youtu.be/RUPTXpC2ZnU4. Coffee Business Is Complex - https://youtu.be/vG3fSxvNumU5. How to Remain Relevant in Coffee - https://youtu.be/jOD7ECpLx4wIn 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.Connect with RAW Coffee Company here:• https://www.instagram.com/rawcoffeecompany/• https://rawcoffeecompany.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Who is RAW Coffee Company? - https://youtu.be/SRtjwb-zcwg2. Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - https://youtu.be/JJw6desk30I3. The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - https://youtu.be/RUPTXpC2ZnU4. Coffee Business Is Complex - https://youtu.be/vG3fSxvNumU5. How to Remain Relevant in Coffee - https://youtu.be/jOD7ECpLx4wIn 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.Connect with RAW Coffee Company here:• https://www.instagram.com/rawcoffeecompany/• https://rawcoffeecompany.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you're looking for business advisory services for your coffee business, email Map It Forward at support@mapitforward.org••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Who is RAW Coffee Company? - https://youtu.be/SRtjwb-zcwg2. Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - https://youtu.be/JJw6desk30I3. The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - https://youtu.be/RUPTXpC2ZnU4. Coffee Business Is Complex - https://youtu.be/vG3fSxvNumU5. How to Remain Relevant in Coffee - https://youtu.be/jOD7ECpLx4wIn 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.Connect with RAW Coffee Company here:• https://www.instagram.com/rawcoffeecompany/• https://rawcoffeecompany.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

This episode is brought to you by Raw Beverage Trading - Your hospitality supply chain partner. Connect at sale@rawcoffee.ae••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The five episodes in this series are:1. Who is RAW Coffee Company? - https://youtu.be/SRtjwb-zcwg2. Why Relationships Matter In Coffee - https://youtu.be/JJw6desk30I3. The Reality of the Dubai Coffee Scene - https://youtu.be/RUPTXpC2ZnU4. Coffee Business Is Complex - https://youtu.be/vG3fSxvNumU5. How to Remain Relevant in Coffee - https://youtu.be/jOD7ECpLx4wIn 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.Connect with RAW Coffee Company here:• https://www.instagram.com/rawcoffeecompany/• https://rawcoffeecompany.com/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Middle East Coffee Landscape - https://youtu.be/b2flXeAC2jA2. Building a Values Driven Business in Jordan - https://youtu.be/Dq2pc6bbmdY3. Challenges of the Middle East Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/dJPFoL-8Ln44. The Coffee Crisis and the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Hmd4AoXNkgY5. The Future of Coffee in the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Y8Lc_4b5dXwIn 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.Connect with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes at Bunni Coffee here:• https://bunni.coffee/• https://www.instagram.com/bunni.coffee/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Middle East Coffee Landscape - https://youtu.be/b2flXeAC2jA2. Building a Values Driven Business in Jordan - https://youtu.be/Dq2pc6bbmdY3. Challenges of the Middle East Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/dJPFoL-8Ln44. The Coffee Crisis and the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Hmd4AoXNkgY5. The Future of Coffee in the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Y8Lc_4b5dXwIn 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.Connect with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes at Bunni Coffee here:• https://bunni.coffee/• https://www.instagram.com/bunni.coffee/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list

If you love what we do, become a premium YouTube Subscriber or join our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/mapitforward••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••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.The 5 episodes in this series are:1. The Middle East Coffee Landscape - https://youtu.be/b2flXeAC2jA2. Building a Values Driven Business in Jordan - https://youtu.be/Dq2pc6bbmdY3. Challenges of the Middle East Coffee Market - https://youtu.be/dJPFoL-8Ln44. The Coffee Crisis and the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Hmd4AoXNkgY5. The Future of Coffee in the Middle East - https://youtu.be/Y8Lc_4b5dXwIn 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.Connect with Shireen Muhaisen and James Lynes at Bunni Coffee here:• https://bunni.coffee/• https://www.instagram.com/bunni.coffee/••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••Connect with Map It Forward here: Website | Instagram | Mailing list