The Coffee Experts Club Podcast

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The Coffee Experts Club Podcast

Welcome to the Coffee Experts Club! If you're anything like us, then you've taken what could have been just a job and appreciated it enough to make it a calling. Coffee is at the center of communities, economies and most people's mornings. Being a coffee professional can allow you to be a stable presence in the lives of many, but it also comes with a lot of hard work and a lot of variables that need to be figured out in order to deliver that perfect cup every day. Aaron, Drew and Ben have over 25 years of combined experience in the coffee industry and they are still helping major coffee brands today with their daily operations and opening of new locations. Come join these experts as they have in depth conversations about: opening new locations, managing people, sourcing products, business strategies and pitfalls and a whole lot more. And when you're ready to make this world your own, let us help you open up YOUR FIRST COFFEE DRIVE THRU! www.myfirstdrivethru.coffee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecoffeeexpertsclub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecoffeeexpertsclub

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    73. Starbucks did what?? Balancing pricing, profitability, and customer experience

    SUMMARY: In this episode, we dive into Starbucks’ recent decision to remove the upcharge for alternative milks and explore the broader implications for coffee businesses. While this move may seem like a simple win for consumers, industry insiders know the real costs behind alternative milk pricing. We break down how Starbucks is likely absorbing and redistributing these costs, the psychology behind reducing sticker shock, and what this strategy means for smaller coffee shops trying to balance pricing, profitability, and customer experience. We also discuss the ever-growing challenge of price increases in the coffee industry and how businesses can navigate customer perception. From strategic price adjustments to creating value-driven experiences, we explore ways to maintain customer trust while keeping operations sustainable. Whether you're a coffee shop owner, barista, or just a coffee enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the business side of your daily brew.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction + Starbucks is not upcharging anymore 4:36 The balance between what we charge and profitability 9:53 “The customer” 14:45 Customer reactions to changing prices 19:10 Always keep an eye on Starbucks operationally

    22 min

  2. FEB 12

    72. How Much will Starting a Coffee Company Cost Me

    SUMMARY: Thinking about opening a coffee shop but unsure about the costs? In this episode we dive into one of the most frequently asked questions: How much does it really cost to start a coffee shop? Our hosts, along with industry experts Ben and Drew, break down the numbers—from the price of building a brick-and-mortar café to the more affordable options like coffee carts and mobile setups. We also explore creative funding solutions, partnerships, and alternative business models that can help aspiring coffee entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. Whether you're planning to start small or go big, this episode is packed with insights to help you make informed decisions. Tune in now to learn how to make your coffee business vision a reality—without breaking the bank!   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 4:24 It’s gonna cost how much?! 9:46 Partnering with someone else  20:42 Taking over a business that needs help 25:40 Partnerships vs doing on your own

    29 min

  3. FEB 5

    71. Tips for Improving Your Coffee Business by Streamlining Your Systems

    SUMMARY: In this episode we dive into the essential systems that drive successful coffee businesses. Ben and Aaron discuss the power of standardized operations, drawing lessons from franchises like Starbucks while maintaining the independent coffee shop spirit. From streamlining equipment choices to optimizing labor costs and tracking key performance metrics, we explore why having a replicable system is the secret to scaling without chaos. Discover how a well-structured scorecard can give you control over your business, allowing you to make data-driven decisions instead of relying on gut feelings. Whether you're opening your first location or expanding to multiple stores, this episode is packed with insights to help you build a thriving, efficient coffee brand. Want to get our coffee shop scorecard template? Comment “scorecard” on any of our socials, and we’ll send it your way!   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 5:58 It’s not recreating the wheel 9:37 Do you have a scorecard? 16:56 Breaking down numbers for multiple locations 24:33 People want to have fun at work

    29 min

  4. JAN 29

    70. From Coffee Carts to Multi-Locations: Balancing Risk, Growth, and Opportunity

    SUMMARY: In this episode, Aaron and Ben dive deep into the unpredictable world of coffee carts, trailers, and the entrepreneurial journey. From event planning nightmares and wasted product to leveraging risk for growth, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of scaling a coffee business. The guys share personal stories from their early days in coffee, including the highs and lows of running a cart at unpredictable events and the lessons learned along the way. They explore how owners can move beyond the "hourly rate" mindset and adopt a profit-driven approach. Key topics include: Strategies for managing unpredictable event traffic and minimizing waste. Creative business models for coffee trailers, including partnerships and franchising. Scaling from a single location to a multi-location brand and why it's critical for long-term success. The risks and rewards of investing in growth and building an asset that’s primed for a lucrative exit. Whether you’re running a coffee cart, dreaming of opening a brick-and-mortar, or planning your exit strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights for coffee entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction and recap from Susan’s interview 6:37 The unpredictability of remote coffee locations 8:58 The finances need to work 16:32 Your Threshold of risk in business

    27 min

  5. JAN 22

    69. Things to Evaluate in your Coffee Business

    SUMMARY: In this episode, we dive deep into the essential art of employee evaluations and their transformative impact on your coffee business. We explore how consistent and structured feedback not only boosts employee morale but also enhances overall performance and retention. Key topics include: The importance of regular evaluations to recognize and retain star employees. Why arbitrary raises and unclear expectations can breed frustration and false narratives among team members. The power of clear metrics and actionable goals,  Creating a culture of ownership and open communication to align your team with the company’s vision. Leveraging scorecards and surveys to blend quantitative performance data with team feedback. Whether you're an owner managing multiple locations or a new manager navigating leadership, this episode is packed with actionable insights and tools to build a thriving, motivated team. Tune in to learn how effective evaluations can streamline decision-making, foster trust, and drive measurable success in your business.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 3:41 Evaluating your employees 8:50 But do you really wear every hat? 16:32 Metrics Matter 25:15 Evaluating the overall experience

    28 min

  6. JAN 15

    68. The Ins and Outs of A Coffee Truck with Susan Arredondo of Good Grounds Coffee

    SUMMARY: In this inspiring episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Susan Arredondo, a coffee enthusiast who turned passion into purpose. Starting with a mobile coffee shop in late 2020, she shares how a heart for community service—especially aiding those affected by natural disasters—sparked the idea for a coffee truck designed to serve free, quality coffee to volunteers and victims. From navigating the challenges of starting a business during the pandemic to eventually expanding to a brick-and-mortar location, she recounts the highs, lows, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. This episode offers a candid look at what it takes to break into the coffee industry, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, community connections, and continuous learning. Whether you’re considering starting a coffee business or are curious about the behind-the-scenes challenges of mobile versus brick-and-mortar setups, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in for a story of resilience, growth, and the unyielding drive to bring excellent coffee to the heart of a community.   Minute by Minute:   0:00 Introduction 4:53 Susan’s mobile shop roots 10:08 Where do you put a mobile coffee trailer? 15:46 The school of learn as you go

    27 min

  7. JAN 8

    67. Overcoming the Jitters & Opening a Coffee Shop: Lessons from the Field

    SUMMARY:   In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, the team dives into the inevitable pre-launch jitters that come with starting a new coffee shop—even for seasoned professionals. Whether it's your first location or your 50th, the nerves never truly go away, but they don’t have to hold you back. We share insights on effective advertising strategies, the importance of standout signage, and why a strong grand opening plan can double as a powerful marketing tool. From leveraging local community connections to navigating the bureaucratic maze of permitting, this episode is packed with practical advice for coffee entrepreneurs. Listen in for actionable tips on: How to market your coffee shop before and during the grand opening. Building relationships with city officials and contractors to streamline permits and construction. Why investing in the right experts can save time, money, and headaches. The value of maintaining strong professional relationships for long-term success. Whether you're a first-time shop owner or looking to improve your business strategies, this episode will inspire you to face challenges head-on and foster community connections that ensure your coffee shop thrives.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 3:21 The jitters don’t go away 8:49 What did the permitting process look like opening a shop? 15:42 Shop, cart or truck? 22:24 Taking out loans

    24 min

  8. 11/20/2024

    66. How to Tell if You're Pricing Correctly

    SUMMARY: In this episode we dive deep into the pricing strategies that help coffee shops thrive, even in a challenging economic landscape. Aaron, Ben and Drew tackle the big question every coffee shop owner faces: "Are our prices still the right prices?" From minimum wage hikes to fluctuating ingredient costs, they discuss why regular pricing evaluations are essential and how to decide which drinks need a price adjustment without alienating loyal customers. Drew and Ben share insights into their own experiences, including how to factor in competitors' prices, balance high and low-margin items, and even run promotions to make price increases feel like a win for customers. They introduce Ben's "Cost per Cup" tool, a powerful resource that provides a clear breakdown of production costs, so shop owners can make informed decisions about pricing. Listeners can get a free copy of this tool by reaching out on social media—just comment "Cost per Cup." Whether you're a new shop owner or scaling up, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep costs in check while ensuring customers feel they’re getting value. Plus, hear how Drew and Aron are navigating the process of opening their third location and the challenges that come with it. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on pricing, strategy, and finding the sweet spot between profitability and customer loyalty.   Minute by Minute: 0:00 Introduction 3:53 Are our prices still the right prices 15:12 Positioning based on competitors 19:25 Frequency of raising prices

    28 min
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About

Welcome to the Coffee Experts Club! If you're anything like us, then you've taken what could have been just a job and appreciated it enough to make it a calling. Coffee is at the center of communities, economies and most people's mornings. Being a coffee professional can allow you to be a stable presence in the lives of many, but it also comes with a lot of hard work and a lot of variables that need to be figured out in order to deliver that perfect cup every day. Aaron, Drew and Ben have over 25 years of combined experience in the coffee industry and they are still helping major coffee brands today with their daily operations and opening of new locations. Come join these experts as they have in depth conversations about: opening new locations, managing people, sourcing products, business strategies and pitfalls and a whole lot more. And when you're ready to make this world your own, let us help you open up YOUR FIRST COFFEE DRIVE THRU! www.myfirstdrivethru.coffee FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecoffeeexpertsclub Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecoffeeexpertsclub

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