Coffee Expert James Hoffmann on The Diary of A CEO Podcast
My Take Aways
“People’s expectation of coffee is often very low, but when we show them what it can be, that’s a very satisfying moment”
During the week, I managed to catch James Hoffmann on Steven Bartlett's Diary of A CEO podcast. As someone who regularly tunes into the podcast and a lover of coffee, seeing James Hoffmann (who’s work I often come across on YouTube) featured was a treat. Here are a few captivating points from the interview.
Bye Bye Speciality Coffee
When discussing the future of Coffee James brought up the sad reality of climate change 😞 The weather condition in which specialty coffee thrives are increasingly vulnerable to the effects of rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and shifting climates. Regions that have historically produced the highest quality coffee beans are experiencing altered growing conditions, including changes in rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, and the spread of pests and diseases. :(
High Source of Fibre
Coffee is commonly linked with caffeine, often being the go-to for a morning boost. Some even opt for an espresso shot pre-workout for its caffeine perks. Surprisingly, coffee's role as a source of fibre often goes unnoticed. With reports indicating a national deficiency in fibre intake, it's enlightening to realise that my daily cups—be it one, two…. or three—are actually contributing to my fibre intake.
Made 3 Times
When we think about coffee we often think about it in its latter forms. The final roasted bean or the final cup we consume, Although not a revelation, it was good to be reminded of the coffee supply chain and appreciate the journey of coffee before these stages in its production.
Coffee is first made in the farm where the coffee fruit is grown, picked and processed.
It is then made when it’s roasted. At this stage a perfectly sourced bean can be roasted to perfection or not.
Lastly, it’s made when a barista or when we at home make a brew. Which again can make or break a perfectly roasted bean at the stage before.
Dependent but not Addicted
Steven asked James if we as coffee drinkers are addicted, in which he replied we are not addicted but perhaps are dependent. Which I find to be true for myself. I occasionally go a week or 2 (maybe just a week) without coffee, the first couple of days I feel lethargic which I see as the ‘dependent’ part but after a couple of days, my body seems to adjust and I can function perfectly fine without it. The exciting part is when I start drinking it again and I’m reminded of the impact it is having.
They delve into several other subjects that I believe make the watch worthwhile. Specifically, the part where he conducts blind taste tests of renowned high-street-coffee retailers and provides his live feedback.
Watch the full episode and let me know your thoughts.