Beyond Certifications: Cosecha Traders and Colombia’s Vulnerable Farmers | Ep 57
In this episode, I sit down with Luis from Cosecha Traders to talk about what “dignified coffee trading” actually looks like on the ground in Colombia. We get into how extreme weather and security issues are hitting smallholders, why many of the most vulnerable farmers never see the benefits of certifications, and what it takes to pay them fairly while still moving coffee in a tough market.
Luis shares stories of “diamond in the rough” producers, including an ex‑FARC combatant who traded guerrilla life for specialty coffee and is now experimenting with honey and semi‑washed lots. We explore how Cosecha Traders identifies and supports these farmers, helps them push quality, and connects them to roasters who care about impact beyond a label.
If you’ve ever wondered what’s really behind your single origin Colombia or how sourcing can create second chances in conflicted regions, this conversation will give you a grounded, unfiltered look at the realities—and possibilities—of the supply chain.
29 Jan 2026
56. 3 Year Anniversary Special
This episode marks three years since purchasing Maiden Coffee Roasters.
To celebrate the anniversary, Alyssa and I sat down and looked back—not just at the past year, but at how our thinking, stress, and leadership have evolved since year one. Last year’s anniversary episode became our best-performing episode to date, so we decided to revisit the format and go deeper.
In this conversation, Alyssa asks me questions such as:
What I believed in year one that I’ve completely changed my mind about by year three
What the Maiden brand actually stands for today
How our stressors have changed from survival mode to sustainability
Which habits and mindsets have proven most critical for long-term growth
This episode isn’t about overnight success or shortcuts. It’s an honest look at what changes when a business moves from excitement to responsibility—and what it takes to build something that can last.
If you’re an entrepreneur, small business owner, or creative trying to think long-term instead of just “getting through the week,” this one’s for you.
5 Jan 2026
55. Understanding the 1st, 2nd, 3rd & 4th Waves of Coffee
Curious what people really mean when they talk about the waves of coffee? In this episode, we break down the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Waves of Coffee—how they shaped culture, quality, and the way we drink coffee today—and then dive into what’s next with an honest look at the 4th Wave of Coffee and where the industry is heading.
We explore the journey from instant coffee and mass-market brewing, to the growth of café culture and espresso chains, to the rise of specialty coffee, craftsmanship, origin transparency, and flavor clarity. Then, I share my perspective on what I believe will define the next era of coffee and how it could impact roasters, café owners, baristas, and everyday coffee lovers.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
4.9 / 5
10 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 19 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
17
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
51
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