Ready to dive deep into the world of coffee, where the chill of iced coffee squares off with cold brews? That's what we're brewing up in our chat with Michael Harwood, co-owner of Vignette Coffee Roasting. He demystifies the difference between these two summer saviors, explaining why cold brew may just outlast iced coffee in your fridge. But that's not all - he takes us on a sensory exploration of coffee roasting, unraveling the stark contrast between being a barista and the physical demands of toasting those beans to perfection.

The conversation doesn't stop there. We stir the pot on the importance of seasonality in coffee buying. How does it affect your cup of joe? Does it bring more value to you, the coffee aficionado? We discuss how the hard work of farmers, pickers, and processors adds to the quality of the coffee and why it's crucial to buy in sync with the seasons. We even touch upon the globe's northern and southern hemisphere dividing line and its impact on coffee availability. So, refill your cup and join us on this caffeinated journey that's sure to change your perspective on your morning brew.

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Have you ever pondered the true value of a barista or the complexities of tipping culture within the coffee industry? As we unfold these intricate layers, we guarantee an enriching brew of insights and stories with our esteemed guest, Michael Harwood, co-owner of Vignette Coffee Roasting. Be prepared to discover a world beyond your morning coffee pick-me-up, as we unravel the delicate balance between a warm, inviting café environment and ensuring a fair living wage for the hardworking baristas. We also venture into the innovative concept of pay-as-you-can models, and how they could potentially stir up the coffee scene.

We invite you to embark on a journey of love, laughter, and entrepreneurship with us, as we navigate the highs and lows of running a coffee business as a newly wedded couple. Michael brings his diverse experiences from theatre and nursing to the coffee industry, offering a unique perspective on the myriad facets of coffee. And, it’s not just all work and no play. We'll also share the delightfully quirky tale of our raccoon mascot, and its surprising role in brewing positivity within the industry.

Finally, let's plunge into the rich and robust blend of coffee culture and community support. As we reflect on our global travels, we realize how different perspectives can enrich our understanding of the coffee supply chain. We'll delve into the significance of barista and craft culture, with a focus on the importance of continuous learning to propel the industry forward. We're proud of Vignette Coffee's commitment to providing exceptional customer experiences while nurturing our local community. Get ready to grind through these stimulating discussions and deepen your appreciation for your beloved cup of joe!

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Can you imagine savoring your favorite grilled summer salad with a perfectly paired coffee cocktail? Picture a medium roast Colombian or Guatemalan coffee, enhanced with a hint of honey, served chilled using large ice cubes or ice balls to avoid dilution, and topped with frozen berries for an unexpected flavor twist. That's what food and former Cordon Bleu Chef, Lisa Record, brings to our table in this exciting episode.

Get ready to fire up those grills as Lisa shares her expert tips and tantalizing recipes for grilling our favorite summer delicacies. 

But that's not all. Our gastronomic adventure doesn't stop there! We journey with Lisa through Michigan's distinct barbecue tradition and learn how to perfectly grill venison tenderloin. So, plug in your headphones and get ready for a delicious experience that promises to transform your summer grilling narrative. Brace yourself for a thrilling culinary adventure that will awaken your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Get ready to sizzle and savor with Lisa Ricord!

And, of course, a big thank you to our sponsor, Better with a Cup of Coffee, for making this adventure possible.

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Support the show

https://www.instagram.com/betterwithacupofcoffee/
https://betterwithacupofcoffee.com/

This episode is about trying new things and being willing to overcome fear.

Cate and I experienced glamping, coffee shop stopping at one of the most notorious gunman in the west’s cafe, hiking through Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park.

The road trippen through the wide open spaces of the west is about exploring and feeling a sense of freedom that we never have felt when we have driven through forest lined highways on the east coast.

If you’re wanting to explore and feel freedom caress your soul, come along with us on our journey through Utah.

We hope you enjoy the experience.

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This episode is with a broadcasting legend, Sandra Hughes.

Sandra Hughes was the first African American woman to host her own talk show in North Carolina, with Sandra and Friends. She was the first female broadcaster invited to participate in the European Communities' Visitors Program. She was the first African American woman in the Southeast to host PM Magazine, which was broadcasted nationally, along with many more awards and accomplishments.

As I was growing up in Greensboro, North Carolina, I knew Sandra Hughes, but I called her aunt San.

Here in North Carolina people have seen Sandra Hughes for decades on WFMY-TV, but what you didn't get to see was the funny, great story telling aunt San. This episode not only tells the story of her past, but it also gives you a glimpse of the person, not just the legend.

We hope you enjoy!

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This episode is with Elizabeth McGuire, the Executive Director of the Colorado Music Festival & Center for Musical Arts.

Her love for coffee is just as strong as her love for the symphony. Liz, we affectionately call her, studied music at West Carolina University. We don't know which came first, her love of coffee or music, but we do know that both sure have evolved since her time in Boulder, Colorado.

We get a chance to hear about the world class musical talent that is showcased during the summer in the quaint neighborhood of Chipaqawah, which is a hidden gem above the campus of The University of Boulder Colorado, and some of the best coffee shops in Boulder.

If you've ever wanted to know what it entails to put on a world class event and to grab a tasty cup of coffee in Boulder, listen up. Liz's personality shines bright and is very engaging.

We hope you enjoy the journey.

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Today's episode is with Emmanuel Dunbar, owner of Royal Diaspora Coffee in Tampa, Florida. Emmanuel has brought exquisite Brazilian coffee to Tampa, FL. 

Coffee is a bridge to learn about other cultures and to experience the different ways of life, and Emmanuel wants to incorporate that by bringing coffee to his neighborhood and teach young black people what the coffee culture is all about. 

His journey started way back from his childhood when his mother brewed her morning coffee. Coffee just stuck in his mind. Now as an adult, he has become an entrepreneur within the industry that he has loved so much, the coffee industry.

I loved this conversation because Emmanuel is a fascinating person. He is candid about traveling, coffee, and his journey through life.

We hope you enjoy our conversation.

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Today's episode is about a company that is empowering female coffee producers and revolutionizing how coffee is roasted and sold in Guatemala. 

The company is called Chica Bean, and I'm speaking with partners, Josue Martinez and Abby Grabner. Their new way of doing business has cut out the middle man. They roast their own coffee, and use UPS to transport their coffee all over the world. Chica Bean is showing the world that there is a better way.

This is a new business model for how coffee farmers in other small countries could follow. The best part about it is that the coffee farmers get paid more money.

What a wonderful interview. Listen in to hear to full story. 

We hope you enjoy the show.

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This episode is not only about how Cate and I relaxed and enjoyed the simpler times as we drank our coffee watching the most stunning sunrises and sunsets, nor is it about being inspired by three of the loveliest people we met on our hiking adventure. It's about nature stealing the show.

The day started in Palms Springs, CA with us taking the tallest air tram in the world to dine for lunch. Then, hike the San Jacinto State Park. After finishing our exploration within the wilderness, we navigated our way to the town of Joshua Tree, CA where we found all that we needed at our retreat amongst the stunning features of wildlife and its habitat.

Even though we had only two days in the desert, we created a multitude of memories.

We hope you enjoy the journey.

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