I'M NOT A BARISTA: Voices of the Coffee World

I'M NOT A BARISTA
I'M NOT A BARISTA: Voices of the Coffee World

Welcome to "I'M NOT A BARISTA," the podcast that brews conversations with the heartbeat of the coffee industry.  Dive deep into the world of beans and brews as we chat with coffee aficionados from every corner of the globe. From the bustling streets of the world's coffee capitals to the quiet corners of local coffee shops, we bring you stories, insights, and tips that percolate with passion. Our episodes are a blend of vibrant narratives. We chat with world champions and unsung heroes alike because we believe in the universal truth – everyone has a story worth hearing. Whether you're looking for the secret behind the perfect cup, curious about the journey of a bean from farm to mug, or itching to hear the challenges and triumphs of running a café, we've got a sip of everything. You could be a seasoned barista, a homebrewer just starting out, or someone who simply loves a good coffee tale; "I'M NOT A BARISTA" is your cozy nook in the vast world of coffee conversations. And remember, you don’t have to be famous or a coffee virtuoso to join us. Today’s listener could be tomorrow’s guest. Because in this world of aromas and flavors, every voice deserves a moment in the spotlight. So, pull up a chair, pour yourself a cup, and let's steep in the stories of the coffee world together. Cheers! www.notabarista.org [http://www.notabarista.org]

  1. From Medical Engineering to Greek Barista Champion: Nikos's Journey of Passion and Purpose

    09/13/2024

    From Medical Engineering to Greek Barista Champion: Nikos's Journey of Passion and Purpose

    In this episode of the I'M NOT A BARISTA podcast, we sit down with Nikos Antzaras [https://www.instagram.com/p/CfBd_gaKegb/?img_index=1], a two-time Greek Barista Champion whose love for coffee transformed his life and career. Starting as a medical engineering student working as a barista to cover expenses, Nikos found his true calling in the world of coffee—a decision that led to both family tensions and remarkable personal growth. "I really fell in love with coffee," Nikos recalls. Despite his parents' concerns—"What are you doing? Are you crazy? You studied... what coffee things are these?"—he pursued his passion relentlessly.  Nikos shares valuable insights from his extensive experience in coffee competitions, emphasizing that "you never lose; you always win something." His journey took a profound turn during a trip to Colombia, where he helped save a coffee farmer's livelihood by challenging an incorrect defect evaluation.   At his own establishment, Roast Warehouse in Athens, Nikos continues to inspire both customers and employees. "I always tell my employees, 'It doesn't matter where you work. If you love this job, you have to always give your 100 percent.'" With an open roastery concept, he invites everyone to witness the art and science behind every cup. Join us as we explore Nikos's inspiring story—a testament to passion, perseverance, and the impact one individual can have on an entire community. Whether you're a coffee professional or an enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons and motivation for your own journey in the world of coffee. www.notabarista.org [https://www.instagram.com/p/CfBd_gaKegb/?img_index=1]

    32 min
  2. S3E12: A Cup of Savina Giachgia: Stories from the Coffee World"

    02/03/2024

    S3E12: A Cup of Savina Giachgia: Stories from the Coffee World"

    Hello and a very warm welcome to all our listeners out there! You're tuning into the 'I'M NOT A BARISTA' podcast, and today marks the beginning of our exhilarating 2024 journey together. As we sip our first cups of coffee in this new year, we're thrilled to bring you stories that brew inspiration, stir passion, and pour out the essence of what it truly means to be part of the global coffee community. Before we dive into today's episode, I want to extend a heartfelt Happy New Year to each and every one of you. We've been away for a bit, focusing all our energy on the MOMENTEM grinder project. Your patience and encouragement have been our steady guide, and now, we're back, more ready than ever to share the incredible voices from the coffee world with you. In our comeback episode, we're bringing you a conversation that's been brewing since last year. Our guest is none other than Savina Giachgia from Greece, a name that resonates with dedication, skill, and an unwavering love for coffee. From facing unexpected challenges at the World Brewers Cup to embarking on a journey of self-discovery and professional growth, Savina's story is a testament to the power of community, passion, and hard work in the coffee industry. Despite our brief hiatus, we believe that some conversations are timeless, and Savina's insights, experiences, and heartfelt advice are as relevant and inspiring as ever. Whether you're a budding barista, a seasoned coffee professional, or simply someone who appreciates a good cup of coffee, this episode is brewed just for you. So, let's not wait any longer. Please join me in giving a warm, caffeinated welcome to Savina Giachgia. Savina, welcome to 'I'M NOT A BARISTA. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamnotabarista/ Follow Savina https://www.instagram.com/savina.giachgia/

    21 min
  3. S3E11: Melissa's "Everybody's busy" Coffee Revolution: Where Passion Meets Reservation

    09/15/2023

    S3E11: Melissa's "Everybody's busy" Coffee Revolution: Where Passion Meets Reservation

    Today, we have the pleasure of introducing you to an exceptional coffee entrepreneur, Melissa Stinson [https://www.instagram.com/everybodysbusy/]. The brilliance behind the successful 'Everybody's Busy' coffee studio in Chicago, Melissa embodies the spirit of innovation and fervor in the coffee industry. But what truly sets her apart is her unique concept: a reservation-style business model, weaving exclusivity and personalization into every coffee experience. While the world often measures success in revenue and numbers, Melissa's journey teaches us that it's so much more than that. For many in the coffee world, it's the pure, unbridled passion for the craft that holds more weight than financial returns. Every pour, every brew, every sip she offers at 'Everybody's Busy' is a testament to that undying love for coffee. So, if you ever find yourself wandering the streets of Chicago, take a moment to reserve a spot at 'Everybody's Busy [https://www.everybodysbusy.com/].' Dive into a coffee encounter like never before and let Melissa's story inspire you to find success on your own terms. Enjoy the episode! If you prefer reading, read Melissa's coffee story here https://notabarista.org/melissa-stinson/ -- At "I'M NOT A BARISTA," our essence lies in echoing the voices of coffee aficionados who often remain unheard. We champion the tales, trials, and triumphs of every individual in the coffee community. Every story matters, and yours could be the next one we share. Don't be a silent brewer; let the world hear your story. Want to share your coffee chronicle? DM us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/iamnotabarista/].

    47 min
  4. S3E10: Jeremy Zhang: Crafting China's Coffee Culture One Bean at a Time

    09/12/2023

    S3E10: Jeremy Zhang: Crafting China's Coffee Culture One Bean at a Time

    In this illuminating episode, we have the honor of hosting Jeremy Zhang [https://www.instagram.com/jeremyzhang4180/], a titan in the realm of specialty coffee in China. As the founder of M2M, one of China's largest specialty coffee roasteries, Jeremy's influence stretches far beyond the bustling streets of Nanjing, where his journey began.  His pioneering spirit has carved out a space in coffee competitions, setting a benchmark for many to follow. But who is Jeremy Zhang beyond the entrepreneur? Dive in to understand the fabric of the Chinese coffee industry, the dynamics of evolving tastes and preferences, and the fascinating interplay between tradition and modernity. Jeremy speaks candidly about breaking stereotypes, integrating different aspects of the coffee supply chain, and fostering young talent like the Beijing-born world champion barista Jiangning Du he once recruited, and the infused coffee. Discover how his passion led him from an employer to a mentor, shaping not just beans but lives.  As China's coffee scene remains an enigma to many international coffee lovers, let Jeremy be your guide to unveil its depths. Join us on this caffeinated journey, and you might just see coffee, and China, through a new lens. -- Cover photo from M2M-木 [http://xhslink.com/uAgkuu] on Red book Read more coffee stories at www.notabarista.org [https://notabarista.org/coffeestories/] #coffee #m2m #coffeeinchina #roastery #jeremyzhang #barista #nanjing #nanjingcoffee #notabarista

    47 min

About

Welcome to "I'M NOT A BARISTA," the podcast that brews conversations with the heartbeat of the coffee industry.  Dive deep into the world of beans and brews as we chat with coffee aficionados from every corner of the globe. From the bustling streets of the world's coffee capitals to the quiet corners of local coffee shops, we bring you stories, insights, and tips that percolate with passion. Our episodes are a blend of vibrant narratives. We chat with world champions and unsung heroes alike because we believe in the universal truth – everyone has a story worth hearing. Whether you're looking for the secret behind the perfect cup, curious about the journey of a bean from farm to mug, or itching to hear the challenges and triumphs of running a café, we've got a sip of everything. You could be a seasoned barista, a homebrewer just starting out, or someone who simply loves a good coffee tale; "I'M NOT A BARISTA" is your cozy nook in the vast world of coffee conversations. And remember, you don’t have to be famous or a coffee virtuoso to join us. Today’s listener could be tomorrow’s guest. Because in this world of aromas and flavors, every voice deserves a moment in the spotlight. So, pull up a chair, pour yourself a cup, and let's steep in the stories of the coffee world together. Cheers! www.notabarista.org [http://www.notabarista.org]

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