Episódios
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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
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive into the world of bootstrapping a coffee business and making your dream a reality. The guys share insights on the approachability of starting out in coffee, where minimal overhead and creative solutions make it possible to launch with limited resources. We discuss ways to find the perfect location, manage equipment costs, and leverage your skills to get the best out of every cup, even if you're on a tight budget.
Our hosts also stress the importance of mentorship and community in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. They explore lessons learned from growing within established coffee businesses, the value of a robust support network, and the power of surrounding yourself with people whose skills complement your own. Through personal stories, like Drew, rising from barista to owner, including some unconventional paths like opening locations abroad, we get a candid look at the risks, frustrations, and rewards of going solo in the coffee world. Tune in for practical advice, inspiring stories, and a blueprint for success, whether you're considering your first coffee cart or your tenth café location.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
3:31 Why coffee is a great business to try
7:39 Drew’s journey of becoming a coffee shop owner
17:20 The in-between of trying to build something big
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, we’re thrilled to introduce Meleni Cruz, owner of Press Coffee House in Battle Mountain, Nevada—a unique coffee spot that blends small-town charm with big-city coffee quality. Aaron stumbled upon this hidden gem on a road trip and was immediately captivated by Meleni’s passion and expertise.
Meleni shares her journey from working as a barista to buying and rebranding the coffee shop she once worked at, transforming it into a thriving hub. Hear about the hurdles she’s overcome, from convincing her husband to dive into the coffee business, to dealing with supply challenges in a remote desert town. She’s even got a mini-warehouse of supplies to ensure her shop never runs out of essentials!
From mastering espresso shots to navigating small-town challenges, Meleni’s story is one of grit, family, and community. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about what it really takes to succeed in the coffee world and how a close-knit team can make all the difference. Don’t miss her insights into building a brand, managing resources, and creating a welcoming space in a unique setting!
Tune in and get inspired by Meleni’s journey with Press Coffee House.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction + buying a coffee shop in Battle Mountain
7:29 Revamping an existing coffee shop
12:58 Promoting your own culture to your team
15:33 Getting the things we have is not so easy
24:13 Take it slow
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive into the inevitable challenges and growth opportunities that come with competition in the coffee industry. When a rival opens across the street, it’s easy to feel defensive, but thriving businesses use competition as motivation for excellence. Today, we discuss how staying on top in a competitive landscape means honing your brand identity and delivering a consistent experience.
We explore practical approaches to building a business with clear core values, the role of consistency in customer loyalty, and how metrics can keep teams aligned on goals. From team meetings to systemized communication, we uncover strategies for setting high standards and maintaining a robust operation—even when new players enter the scene. Plus, hear insights on customer experience, from reliable car times to upholding brand-specific details, that make a local shop stand out.
Tune in to learn how to turn competitive pressure into an opportunity for growth and become the go-to coffee destination in your community.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
4:11 Lazy is not how you grow
7:10 What is your unique identifier
13:27 Ways to communicate company values
24:06 Quarterly employee reviews
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, our hosts dive deep into a critical aspect of coffee stand operations: drive-thru speed and its impact on profitability. While many shops prioritize customer engagement, the hosts emphasize that if drive-thru times lag, even the best customer service or product quality won’t keep customers from leaving the line.
They share personal experiences about how focusing on speed not only satisfies customers but also dramatically boosts sales. From timing car orders with sticky notes to using advanced systems like Zoom timers, they explain the evolution of speed tracking and its benefits. Key points include the importance of coaching baristas on efficiency, fostering a fun and competitive work environment through gamification, and understanding that speed is an essential pillar for long-term success.
The episode also highlights how car times influence customer experience and employee tips, and why coffee shop owners should consider speed as part of their overall customer satisfaction strategy. By mastering drive-thru efficiency, coffee shops can ensure profitability, build better customer relationships, and improve employee satisfaction.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
6:25 You need the data
11:12 Zoom timers
16:19 Your customers need to be somewhere and so do you
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, Ben and Drew dive deep into the challenges of scaling a coffee business and the importance of having a clear roadmap for both financial growth and employee development. They discuss the critical metrics to consider when expanding from one store to multiple locations and the complexities that come with managing a growing team.
Ben and Drew share their experiences in creating business plans, revisiting them as the business evolves, and learning from mistakes along the way. They also highlight the need for structured management systems, the importance of employee growth paths, and how to maintain motivation and engagement within a diverse workforce.
Whether you're a first-time coffee shop owner or looking to expand your operation, this episode provides invaluable insights on building sustainable systems that ensure both business success and employee satisfaction.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
5:10 The importance of having a business plan
9:42 Motivating our young staff
14:51 Own Your Store
20:51 Goals for the quarter, goals for the year
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, we dive into the evolution of coffee shop inventory management and how smart systems can dramatically improve efficiency and profitability. Hosts Aaron, Ben and Drew discuss the journey from old-school, manual ordering methods to streamlined, data-driven systems that help managers make smarter decisions. Learn how their Google Sheets-based tool helps track inventory, prevent over-ordering, and empower managers to adjust stock levels based on real-time insights.
With tips on reducing costs of goods sold (COGS) and managing multiple locations remotely, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to optimize your coffee shop operations. Whether you're running a single café or managing several locations, these insights will help you save money and create a more sustainable, profitable business. Plus, discover how to access their smart ordering sheet and the other essential tools they offer through Coffee Experts Academy.
Key Takeaways:
The evolution of inventory management from manual to digital How smart ordering systems reduce overstocking and waste Practical tips for teaching young managers to run a profitable coffee shop Remote management of multiple locations using simple, effective toolsTune in for expert advice on taking your coffee shop operations to the next level!
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
3:35 Origins of the Smart Ordering Sheet
9:59 Rolling out this tool at multiple locations
16:52 I ran out can I borrow from you?
24:20 Most people leave when culture has gone bad
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, the experts dive even deeper on last week's discussion: understanding your numbers and using them to run a profitable business. Aaron, Ben, and Drew share their experiences with navigating financial challenges in the coffee industry, from the anxiety of managing by bank account balance to developing systems for solid financial tracking. They discuss the importance of transitioning from instinctual decisions to data-driven ones, focusing on profitability and sustainability.
The team breaks down how owners can motivate their staff to care about the bottom line by introducing profit-sharing incentive programs. By simplifying financial data—such as gross sales, cost of goods, and labor—baristas and managers alike can contribute to the overall success of the business while feeling a sense of ownership. They also emphasize the significance of balancing passion with clear numbers and the power of collaboration between leadership and staff.
Whether you're a new business owner or scaling multiple locations, this episode provides actionable insights on how to reduce financial anxiety and build a motivated team that shares in your company’s success. Stay tuned for valuable tips and tools to help you make smart, profitable decisions.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
5:50 Knowing your numbers gives you authority
9:27 Incentivizing based on profitability
24:34 Can you really be transparent with your numbers?
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SUMMARY:
In this essential episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive into the crucial, yet often overlooked topic of profitability. It may not be the flashiest subject, but it’s the one every coffee shop owner must understand to ensure the long-term success of their business. Ben and Aaron discuss why knowing your numbers is the key to avoiding financial pitfalls and share real-life stories of cafes that have struggled—or even closed—due to lack of financial oversight.
We explore common mistakes, like relying solely on bank accounts to gauge business health, and offer actionable advice for managing costs and improving profitability. From the importance of using accounting software and hiring a bookkeeper, to setting up incentive plans that empower managers to think like owners, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your coffee shop’s finances.
Whether you're a new coffee shop owner or a seasoned pro, tune in to learn how to make your business not just survive, but thrive.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction and the waves of budgeting
7:44 Bank accounts and accounting software
12:30 Measuring efficiency
19:58 Counting the cups
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, hosts Ben, Drew, and Aaron discuss the innovative strategies they've used to drive customer engagement and sales at their coffee shops, particularly in Belize. They share how they've adapted to a tech-limited environment by leveraging WhatsApp for marketing, building community-driven initiatives, and creating spontaneous, buzz-worthy promotions. Drew recounts the success of a recent flash sale that led to a surge in sales, while Ben emphasizes the importance of speaking directly to local communities. From finding your shop’s unique niche to engaging with customers on a personal level, this episode is full of actionable insights for coffee shop owners looking to connect with their audience in meaningful ways.
Tune in to learn how to foster loyalty, increase visibility, and make your coffee business thrive, no matter where you are!
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
3:07 The MOST important part of marketing
6:22 Collaboratives when done right
20:16 Marketing doesn’t have to be all you
23:42 What makes your coffee shop unique
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club, the team welcomes back Jonathan Maiers to dive into the challenges and unexpected opportunities that arise when expanding a coffee business. Jonathan shares his journey of opening a second location for his coffee shop in Great Falls, Montana—a decision that came about quite unexpectedly. He explains how he stumbled upon a vacant drive-thru space attached to a gas station, a serendipitous find that transformed into a fully operational coffee location in just three months.
Jonathan discusses the unique logistics and creative problem-solving involved in turning this unconventional space into a profitable venture. He touches on the importance of thinking outside the box, especially when it comes to growth and expansion. The episode delves into the nitty-gritty of navigating local regulations, negotiating leases, and adapting to customer flow in a shared business space. The conversation also explores broader themes of strategic pivoting, taking calculated risks, and leveraging community relationships to drive traffic and build a brand.
Listeners will gain insights into the benefits and drawbacks of unconventional locations, like being attached to a gas station, and how to manage these spaces for maximum visibility and customer engagement. Jonathan's story is an inspiring testament to the power of agility and resilience in the coffee business, emphasizing the need to stay open to unexpected opportunities that could potentially redefine a brand's growth strategy.
Whether you're a seasoned coffee shop owner or just starting out, this episode offers valuable lessons on how to capitalize on unique business opportunities and navigate the complexities of expansion with confidence.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 introduction + grease traps and septic backups
4:55 The juking and pivoting of opening a new location
12:21 Move aside $2 day, we’re doing FREE
17:21 The things that come along with the building itself
23:40 Franchising with the right people
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive deep into one of the most critical aspects of running a successful coffee shop: people management. Join us as Ben and Drew, seasoned coffee shop operators, share their experiences and strategies on how to build, train, and retain a stellar team that aligns with your company’s ethos and culture.
With a combined experience of managing over 20 locations and more than 150 employees, our guests provide a wealth of knowledge on the complexities of hiring the right talent, developing effective training programs, and fostering a positive work environment. They emphasize that while the right people can elevate your business, the wrong hires can be a costly mistake.
Listeners will learn about the importance of structured training, the balance between experienced and inexperienced hires, and how to cultivate a workplace that attracts and retains enthusiastic employees. Whether you’re a coffee shop owner, manager, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights into mastering the art of people management in the coffee industry. Don’t miss it!
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction and what people mean to your business
4:34 The hiring, onboarding and training process
15:24 The right experience level to target for your team
17:47 Interviews to determine energy
21:29 Do you really want all the people you manage to ascend?
26:47 How long do you wait before you cut somebody
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we dive into one of the most critical decisions for any coffee business: selecting the right location. Whether you're dreaming of opening your first shop or expanding to a new site, our hosts share valuable insights on what to look for—and what to avoid.
We discuss common pitfalls, like choosing a spot with poor visibility, heavy traffic, or challenging ingress and egress. Learn from real-world examples of locations that seemed promising but ended up being traffic nightmares, causing lost customers and missed opportunities. We also explore unconventional approaches, such as revamping underutilized spaces in shopping centers or partnering with local property owners to secure high-traffic, low-cost sites.
Our hosts emphasize the importance of understanding traffic patterns, demographic studies, and your target customer’s daily habits. Whether it’s being near schools, sports fields, or key intersections, this episode is packed with tips to ensure your coffee shop thrives by being in the right place at the right time. Tune in and make sure your next location is a winner!
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
2:41 Think about traffic
12:51 A bit of magic in deciding a location
17:21 Do you know your avatar?
25:04 Have a list to work from when building your coffee shop
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SUMMARY:
In this episode the guys dive into the evolving landscape of the coffee industry, exploring the growing competition from unconventional rivals like McDonald's new sub-brand, Cosmc's. The conversation covers the rise of alternative beverage shops that are expanding beyond traditional coffee offerings to include energy drinks, specialty sodas, and more. The hosts discuss the concept of the "third place"—a communal space between work and home—and how coffee shops have long fulfilled this role, but now face new challenges from these emerging trends.
They also touch on the importance of craft and quality in coffee, emphasizing how specialization has helped coffee shops maintain their relevance. The episode wraps up with reflections on how large brands like McDonald's are tapping into this market with innovative approaches, and the potential implications for local coffee businesses. Whether you're a coffee shop owner or a fan of the industry, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at the future of coffee culture.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
5:31 CosMc
10:58 Don’t forget the craft of it all
19:20 A whole new brand standing on its own
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SUMMARY:
In this episode Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Clay Weigand, a passionate coffee entrepreneur with an inspiring journey. Clay shares his story, starting as a 16-year-old at Dutch Bros, where he developed a deep appreciation for customer service and coffee culture. He recalls his nights on the graveyard shift, where his curiosity led him to dismantle coffee machines, dreaming of one day owning his own shop.
Clay’s journey took him from Dutch Bros to Good Bean in Jacksonville, where he was mentored by barista trainer Jake Tarando, deepening his understanding of the science behind coffee. His path then led him to Tennessee, where a chance encounter with a local roaster opened doors he never expected. Despite his youth and inexperience in business, Clay was offered an opportunity to take over a roastery, which he transformed into Bad Habit Coffee. He talks about the challenges of starting a coffee shop and the unexpected twists that led to its success.
The episode delves into Clay’s philosophy on coffee, from his Dutch Bros-inspired customer service approach to his third-wave coffee shop aesthetic. He shares his thoughts on small-batch roasting, community building, and the personal connections that coffee fosters. Clay’s story is one of passion, learning, and embracing opportunities, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the coffee industry or entrepreneurial journeys.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
4:25 Clay’s coffee origins
13:16 A passion for roasting
17:31 From nerdy roaster to actual coffee expert
22:53 Is there still a place for small batch coffee for Clay?
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, hosts Aaron, Ben, and Drew delve into the critical importance of focus and specialization in the coffee and restaurant industries. Using In-N-Out Burger as a prime example, they discuss the benefits of limiting menu options to excel in quality and customer satisfaction. The conversation explores the pitfalls of diversifying too broadly, illustrated by Drew's experience with the challenges of offering avocado toast in coffee shops.
The trio emphasizes the need for coffee shops to stick to their core offerings while thoughtfully innovating within their niche. They share insights on leveraging local partnerships to enhance product offerings without diluting brand identity. The episode highlights the value of measured innovation, drawing from their experiences in Belize, where they've successfully integrated local vendors and seasonal products.
Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on balancing menu variety, maintaining quality, and strategically expanding offerings. Whether you're a coffee shop owner or an enthusiast, this episode provides actionable insights into mastering your craft and growing your business sustainably. Tune in to learn how to stay true to your passion while navigating the complexities of the food and beverage industry.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
2:28 Let’s talk about In N Out
5:24 Food baits us all in
9:39 Offering unique items over popular
11:30 Finding the right things to produce in house
17:51 What is my passion source
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SUMMARY:
In this episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, we revisit our insightful conversation with Derek Tonn, Vice President at Black Rock Coffee. Derek offered a rare glimpse into the operational strategies of a large coffee chain with over 100 locations. He shared invaluable lessons on scaling business operations, particularly in the context of technology upgrades, such as the challenges and rewards of transitioning to a new point-of-sale (POS) system.
Whether you're managing a small café or aiming to expand into a multi-location chain, this episode is packed with practical advice such as the importance of keeping your operations efficient, tracking key metrics, and the role of technology in supporting a growing team. We also explore how to apply these big-chain insights to smaller coffee businesses, emphasizing the necessity of planning and adapting tools as your business evolves.
Tune in to learn how to map your journey to success, track your progress with meaningful data, and make strategic decisions that can drive your business forward, regardless of its size.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction and Drew vs the hurricane
2:56 Revisiting Derek Tonn’s interview and switching POS systems
11:26 Tracking your metrics is important
20:49 Nobody wants to work forever
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SUMMARY:
In this insightful episode of The Coffee Experts Club Podcast, hosts Aaron, Ben, and Drew sit down with Derek Tonn, CEO of Black Rock Coffee, to delve into the complexities of upgrading a point of sale (POS) system across over 100 locations. Derek shares the journey of moving from a limited POS system to Revel Systems, an iPad-based, cloud POS with an open API, enabling seamless integration with various enterprise systems.
Derek explains the challenges and triumphs of integrating their new POS with third-party applications like Seven Shifts for time and attendance, and Patronix for online ordering. Also how these integrations have streamlined operations, enhanced reporting accuracy, and boosted customer experience through a cohesive system that allows for real-time data flow and unified inventory management.
Derek also discusses the strategic importance of choosing technology partners that specialize in specific functionalities rather than opting for an all-in-one solution. From ensuring consistent naming conventions across menus to leveraging data for optimizing supply chains, this episode is packed with practical advice for coffee shop owners looking to scale their operations efficiently.
Whether you're running a single location or managing a multi-store operation, this episode offers valuable insights into the tech-driven strategies that can propel your business forward. Tune in to hear Derek’s expert tips and lessons learned from overseeing a massive technology upgrade at Black Rock Coffee.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction and get to know Derek Tonn
6:51 Pursuing the best point of sale system
11:00 The pain of swapping software for your business
15:42 Flowing data between many different stores
21:41 Considering supply chain across regions
26:14 Utilizing vendors at a large scale
28:20 Suggestions for technology and your growing process
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SUMMARY:
This week the guys reflect on their engaging interview with industry veterans Paul Tostberg and Andrew Schmunk. Dive deep into the unique dynamics of running a coffee shop in a college town, where the seasonal ebb and flow of students creates both challenges and opportunities. The hosts share their experiences and lessons learned from managing a predominantly young workforce, the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and the critical role of training in maintaining high customer service standards.
The discussion also explores the complexities of the coffee industry, from employee management and customer service to the intricacies of coffee roasting and brewing. Learn about the layers of expertise required to succeed in this competitive field and the importance of fostering a clear career progression path for motivated employees.
Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or a business owner, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to help you navigate the vibrant and ever-evolving world of coffee. Tune in to discover how passion, dedication, and strategic planning can transform a simple cup of coffee into a thriving business.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
3:41 The pitfalls of having a staff all the same demographic
8:31 Making a career ascension plan for coffee
16:41 You think you know coffee
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SUMMARY:
In this episode, hosts Aaron and Ben dive into an insightful conversation with Andrew Schmunk and Paul Tostberg from Coffee Culture, highlighting the unique dynamics of running a coffee shop in a bustling college town.
Paul and Andrew share how the presence of a large student population influenced their decision to establish Coffee Culture in Corvallis, emphasizing the importance of adapting to seasonal shifts in customer flow and sales. They discuss their strategic approach to staffing, drawing from a talented pool of college students and the challenges and benefits that come with it.
The conversation takes a deeper turn as they explore their meticulous process of training baristas, the significance of creating robust standard operating procedures (SOPs), and the continuous effort to improve their coffee brewing methods. Andrew, with his background in food science, sheds light on the scientific precision and experimentation involved in perfecting their coffee brewing process, from grind size adjustments to pulse settings on brewers.
Listeners will gain a unique perspective on the intricate world of coffee roasting and brewing, learning about the importance of consistency, measurement, and taste in delivering the perfect cup of coffee. The episode wraps up with a discussion on their approach to customer education, providing simple yet effective guidelines for brewing coffee at home.
Minute by Minute:
0:00 Introduction
2:42 Choosing a college town
6:52 Hiring not for experience, but personality
10:08 Winning systems
16:26 Secrets from the coffee lab
30:48 A bit about Tri Cities heat
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