Summary: In this in-depth interview, Eric shares his journey from a print salesman to a successful coffee roaster and entrepreneur. Discover the science behind coffee roasting, the challenges of sourcing and tariffs, and how to differentiate in a competitive market.

Keywords: Coffee roasting, coffee business, coffee science, entrepreneurship, sourcing, tariffs, coffee industry, organic coffee, wholesale, subscription service

Key topics:

• Coffee roasting science and techniques
• Business strategies for coffee entrepreneurs
• Sourcing and supply chain management in coffee industry

Guest name: Eric Medina

Sound Bites:

• "A good roast is like baking cookies."
• "Light roasts are the most difficult to perfect."
• "Each region has unique flavor profiles."

Chapters:

00:00From La Jolla to Italy: Education in Coffee Science

02:21The Impact of Coffee Science Education

03:35Starting Libra Coffee in San Diego

04:30The Master's Program in Italy: Trieste and Illicafe

05:50The Mission: Giving Back with Coffee

07:06First Steps After Graduation: Building the Business

08:34Buying a Turnkey Roaster: Pros and Cons

10:01Roasting Techniques: First Roast and Flavor Development

11:49Understanding First and Second Crack in Roasting

13:34Challenges of Light vs Dark Roasts

14:09From First Batch to Consistent Product

14:41Market Preferences: Light vs Dark Roast

15:44Customer Segments and Business Models

16:23Wholesale, Private Label, and Volume Strategies

17:25Sourcing Green Coffee: Relationships and Economics

18:32Supply Chain and Reliability in Coffee Sourcing

19:21From Cherry to Cup: Coffee Growing and Harvesting

21:16Processing Methods: Natural vs Washed Coffee

22:30Quality Factors in Green Coffee Selection

23:13Regional Flavor Profiles and Blends

23:58Market Trends: Blends vs Single Origin

25:14Global Coffee Supply Chain and Tariffs

26:52Impact of Tariffs and War on Coffee Prices

28:09Advice for Aspiring Coffee Entrepreneurs

28:48Starting Small: Equipment and Licensing Tips

30:01Day-to-Day Challenges of Coffee Business

30:58Differentiating Your Coffee Brand

32:11Delivery and Customer Engagement

32:52Join the Libra Coffee Team

33:14The Art of Coffee Branding

35:25The Value of Organic Certification

38:27Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

39:47The Journey to Coffee Mastery

40:17Hands-On Learning and Career Opportunities