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