SUMMARY:

In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, hosts Aaron and Ben revisit their enlightening conversation with Brandon Eastman from Bentley's Coffee, featured in the previous episode. Brandon, who operates five locations across Albany and Salem in the heart of Oregon, shared invaluable insights on carving out a unique identity in the highly saturated Pacific Northwest coffee market.

Aaron and Ben dive deeper into the strategies that make Bentley's Coffee stand out, discussing Brandon's innovative approach to creating proprietary blends and ingredients from scratch. They explore how this commitment to quality and uniqueness helps Bentley's not only differentiate itself but also build a loyal customer base, even in an area dominated by well-known brands like Dutch Bros and Starbucks.

The hosts also touch on the importance of understanding and catering to your ideal customer, or "ideal avatar," and how Bentley's has successfully done this by focusing on dog lovers with their unique offerings like organic pup cups. Aaron and Ben highlight the significance of cutting out the middleman to reduce costs and increase profitability, drawing parallels to their own experiences in the coffee industry.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for coffee shop owners and enthusiasts alike, emphasizing the balance between innovative marketing and smart business practices to thrive in a competitive market. Tune in to hear more about Brandon's journey and how his strategies can inspire your own coffee business success.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Let’s talk about Drew’s beard

1:57 How Brandon stands out in Oregon

7:11 Leaning into the love of dogs

10:13 Cutting out the middleman

22:23 The whole new drink every week idea….

24:37 Adding hard goods to your shop

SUMMARY:

In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Brandon Eastman, the innovative mind behind Bentley's Coffee. Brandon's journey from a Dutch Bros franchisee to creating his own unique brand is nothing short of inspiring. Situated in mid-level Oregon, just south of Portland, Bentley's Coffee has not only expanded to multiple locations but has also cultivated a beloved community culture.

Brandon shares the story behind Bentley's, named after his 18-and-a-half-year-old Yorkie Shih Tzu, who embodies the brand's friendly and welcoming spirit. The conversation dives into the unique aspects of Bentley's Coffee, such as their commitment to crafting homemade syrups and ingredients, their innovative promotional strategies, and their dedication to community involvement, especially through initiatives supporting local animal shelters.

Listeners will learn about the challenges and triumphs of creating a distinct coffee experience in a competitive market, the importance of building a strong company culture, and the benefits of focusing on a niche—in Bentley's case, catering to both coffee lovers and their furry companions. From the delightful pup shakes made with real bananas and organic peanut butter to their extensive promotional campaigns, Bentley's Coffee stands out by offering something truly special.

Join us for an insightful and heartwarming discussion with Brandon Eastman, as we explore what it takes to build a successful and unique coffee business in today's market. Whether you're a coffee entrepreneur or a lover of a good brew, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction

5:20 Bentley’s brand is for the dogs

13:27 A drink for every week of the year

17:42 Made in house

25:42 Future plans for growing Bentley’s

SUMMARY:

In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, hosts Ben and Drew reflect on their recent interview with Cody Anderson, founder of Houdini Coffee Roasters and a longtime friend. They delve into Cody’s inspiring journey from roasting for Black Rock Coffee to starting his own company.

Ben and Drew discuss Cody's career evolution, highlighting his transition from working at Ethos Bakery and Coffee Shop to finally launching Houdini Coffee Roasters. They admire his steady progress toward his ultimate goal of running his own coffee roasting business, emphasizing his vast knowledge and hands-on experience in the coffee industry.

Listeners will hear about Cody’s exceptional skills in both coffee roasting and machine maintenance, as well as his unique approach to customer service. Ben and Drew share anecdotes about Cody’s meticulous attention to detail and his ability to manage teams effectively—skills honed over years of dedication and hard work.

The hosts also explore the business potential in the coffee industry, particularly for those interested in coffee roasting and tech services. They highlight the high demand for skilled espresso machine technicians and how Cody's expertise positions him perfectly to fill this niche.

Join Ben and Drew as they celebrate Cody Anderson’s achievements and discuss the bright future ahead for Houdini Coffee Roasters. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast, aspiring roaster, or simply curious about the inner workings of the coffee industry, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and predicting the weather in Belize

5:23 Cody moving towards being his own roaster

16:30 When Drew wanted to learn what Cody did

20:13 Ascending with Cody

26:19 There may be Cody’s on your team now

SUMMARY:

In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Cody Anderson, the founder of Houdini Coffee Roasters. Cody shares his inspiring journey from a passionate coffee enthusiast to a business owner carving out his niche in the competitive world of coffee roasting.

Cody details the multi-faceted nature of his business, which goes beyond just roasting exceptional coffee. He offers a full suite of services, including barista training, shop layout consulting, equipment sales and repair, and more. This holistic approach aims to support local coffee shops comprehensively, making Cody a trusted partner for new and established businesses alike.

Listeners will hear about Cody's extensive experience, including his significant contributions to well-known coffee chains and his hands-on expertise with various roasting machines. He discusses the thought process behind choosing his current roasting machine and how he plans to maintain the craft-oriented, manual control he loves.

Cody also delves into his vision for building a strong, supportive team at Houdini Coffee Roasters. He emphasizes the importance of creating a positive work environment for young talents, providing them with opportunities to grow and learn just as he did in his early career.

Tune in to hear Cody's heartfelt stories, his challenges and triumphs, and his strategic plans for the future. Whether you're a coffee shop owner, an aspiring roaster, or just a coffee lover, this episode offers a wealth of insights and inspiration.

Highlights:

• Cody's comprehensive business model: roasting, equipment sales, barista training, and more.
• The journey from working with major coffee chains to starting his own business.
• The importance of building trust and long-term relationships in the coffee industry.
• Choosing the right roasting equipment and maintaining a craft-oriented approach.
• The vision for fostering young talent and building a supportive team culture.

Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the passion, dedication, and expertise behind Houdini Coffee Roasters. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the art and business of coffee roasting.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and more locations in Belize?

6:16 Houdini Coffee Roasters

10:18 Some decision making in the roasting business

17:53 On needing another Cody

23:35 Staying local or expanding bigger

25:21 What sets Houdini apart

SUMMARY:

In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, hosts Aaron and Ben dive deep into the world of coffee trendsetting and the bold decisions that define successful coffee entrepreneurs. Aaron and Ben have a discussion inspired by their recent conversation with Paul Tosberg of Coffee Culture in Corvallis.

Paul's journey from launching one of the earliest drive-thru coffee shops in the U.S. to building a multi-location, self-sustaining coffee business serves as a central theme. The hosts explore how Paul navigated the coffee landscape of the early '90s without the modern resources we take for granted, his innovative integration of a photo lab with his coffee shop, and the strategic pivot he made to focus solely on coffee roasting and retail.

Listeners will hear insights on the importance of foresight, risk-taking, and adaptability in the coffee industry. Aaron and Ben also share their personal experiences and business philosophies, emphasizing the necessity of multiple locations for financial stability and growth. They touch on their own venture in Belize, their strategic planning to open multiple stores without drawing personal income in the early stages, and the broader lessons they've learned about leveraging revenue for sustainable expansion.

This episode is packed with practical advice and inspirational stories for coffee entrepreneurs, whether you're just starting or looking to scale your operations. Tune in to learn about the mindset and strategies that can transform your coffee business from a single shop into a thriving chain.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and Innovation in coffee

8:36 Focusing on what actually builds success and wealth in coffee

15:45 Economies of Scale

SUMMARY:

Join us for an inspiring episode of The Coffee Experts Club as we sit down with Paul, a pioneer in the Coffee Culture of Corvallis since 1993. Discover how Paul and his wife Lisa transitioned from the fast-paced life of Southern California to the heart of Oregon, where they launched their first drive-through coffee stand, Photo Espresso. Paul shares the trials and triumphs of starting a business in a college town, expanding to four locations, and creating a beloved community hub.

Special guest Andrew joins us to share his unique path to becoming the head roaster at Coffee Culture, emphasizing the blend of passion, science, and a bit of luck that fuels great coffee.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a coffee enthusiast, or just love a good origin story, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in and learn how Paul Tostberg and Lisa have crafted a legacy in the world of coffee.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and the man sweeping by the dumpster

3:49 Starting a coffee chain in Corvallis

6:41 The confidence to just do coffee

9:27 Going from one store to 4!

14:25 Jumping into roasting

24:13 Balancing tech and vision and desires for your coffee shop

SUMMARY:

Welcome to the latest episode of Coffee Experts Club! In this episode, Aaron takes a day off, giving Ben and Drew a chance to dive into their recent experiences and discussions. From mustache compliments to exploring the lush landscapes of Belize, join the conversation as they share their insights from their conversation with Malcolm Robinson of Gallon Jug.

Discover the hidden paradise of Gallon Jug Lodge as they discuss the breathtaking beauty of the Belizean rainforest and the unique experiences it offers. From horseback riding to sampling their own locally grown coffee, the team paints a vivid picture of this exclusive destination.

Delve into the details of their tour with Mr. Malcolm Robinson, exploring the intricacies of coffee cultivation at near sea level altitudes. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of growing coffee in such an environment and the dedication behind producing some of the finest beans in Belize.

Explore the cultural pride of sourcing locally and the importance of showcasing Belizean coffee to the world. From discussions on branding to potential collaborations, the team reflects on the value of supporting local industries and the possibilities for future partnerships.

Join the Coffee Experts Club as they share their adventures, insights, and dreams of bringing the best of Belizean coffee to coffee enthusiasts everywhere. Tune in for a journey through the flavors and landscapes of Belize's coffee culture like never before!

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and living in paradise

5:47 Growing coffee at low altitude!

8:31 Where are people in Belize getting their coffee from?

12:39 Retiring in Belize

23:10 The other industries Malcolm Robinson is involved in

SUMMARY:

In this captivating episode of The Coffee Experts Club, hosts Aaron, Ben, and Drew delve into the enchanting world of Belizean coffee with none other than Malcolm Robinson, the mastermind behind Gallon Jug Estate. Joined by special guest Malcolm, the trio explores the unique journey that led him to Belize and the remarkable story of how Gallon Jug Estate became a beacon of exceptional coffee production in the heart of Central America.

Listeners are treated to an intimate glimpse into Malcolm's life, from his initial skepticism about relocating to Central America to his profound love affair with Belize. Malcolm paints a vivid picture of Gallon Jug Estate, a 50,000-acre oasis nestled amidst 550,000 acres of protected rainforest, where every cup of coffee tells a story of passion, dedication, and sustainability.

With each anecdote, Malcolm unveils the intricacies of coffee cultivation at Gallon Jug, from the meticulous harvesting process to the art of roasting and packaging. Despite facing challenges like unpredictable weather and wildlife, Malcolm and his team remain steadfast in their commitment to producing the finest Belizean coffee, elevating it to international acclaim.

The episode brims with admiration as Aaron, Ben, and Drew express their gratitude for the privilege of partnering with Malcolm and Coffee de Los Mayas. Drew's firsthand account of his visit to Gallon Jug Estate underscores the magic of Belizean coffee, leaving the hosts and listeners alike in awe of its purity and flavor.

Join The Coffee Experts Club on a journey to paradise as they uncover the untold story behind Belizean coffee and celebrate the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and sustainability that defines Gallon Jug.

Minute by Minute:

0:00 Introduction and welcome Malcolm Robinson

3:54 Malcolm’s backstory

13:44 Not so bad working in paradise

16:54 Some of the challenges

19:15 Wisdom on opportunities