Dialed In: A Coffee Podcast

"Season Three" Wrap

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 08:55:00 -0400

Looking back on recent episodes (and a few not-so-recent episodes) Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed have a freewheeling (at times unhinged?) conversation about everything from Down Syndrome Awareness Month to dream coffee interviews. Coffee as a vehicle for many forms of cultural expression, the changing state of the coffee scene in Rochester, our past podcast endeavors, and other Rochester creatives to get involved with (including our Lunchador network mates and Cleveland Prost, one of our favorite Rochester Substacks) this conversation HAS IT ALL.

Mentioned in this episode:

Rochester Amerks (@amerkshockey) - Rochester Ice Cats - Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network (@thedsdn) - Best Buddies (@bestbuddiesny) - Bitty & Beau's Coffee (@bittyandbeauscoffee) - Sager Beer Works - (@sager_stoneyard_pub) - Cleveland Prost (@cleveland.prost) - Gigi's Playhouse (@gigisplayhouserochester) - Archers Coffee (@archers.ae) - WAYO 104.3 FM (@wayoradio) - Common Thread - (@commonthreadhxcpodcast) - Ugly Duck Coffee (@uglyduckcoffee) - Joe Bean Roasters (@joebeanroasters) - Grounds for Health (@groundsforhealth) - Kopani Coffee (@kopanicoffee) - Ghost Town Oats (@ghosttownworld)

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business

Check out Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/gettingrealwithbossy/

Lily and Michelle Soehadi of Kopani Coffee are Pouring Gotong Royong in Every Cup

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Aaron, Chris, and Wade sit down with Lily and Michelle Soehadi, who founded Kopani Coffee in November, 2024. Alongside roasting delicious coffee, they've served drinks from their signature menu on their coffee cart, and held educational events to enrich their community's experience of coffee. Their story and approach to coffee are driven by gotong royong, a commitment to mutual enrichment in community settings, a value they carry from their Indonesian heritage, but especially from their late mother. Coupled with a drive to truly learn and teach about coffee, Kopani continues to grow in every direction, telling an inspiring story along the way.

Mentioned in this episode

Kopani Coffee (@kopanicoffee) - Cat & Cloud (@catcloudcoffee) - Wonderstate Coffee (@wonderstatecoffee) - Friedhats (@friedhats) - Mill City Roasters (@millcityroasters)

Shoutouts

Ugly Duck (@uglyduckcoffee) - The Potted Bean (@the_pottedbean) - Whole Latte Love (@wholelattelove)

Mentioned in this episode:

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Marvin Gay of LoPhase Coffee Wants You to Know Coffee Comes from Africa

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 07:45:00 -0400

Aaron and Wade sit down with Marvin Gay of LoPhase Coffee, to follow a journey through hard times, big successes, adversity, and self-assertion. Marvin's describes his experience of coming into conflict with the dominant cultures of the coffee industry and his decisions to trust himself, express himself, and ultimately be himself in spite of the pressure to conform. Marvin's story is not merely about coffee; it is a powerful example of how to rise from challenges, stay true to yourself, demand more of those around you, and ultimately expand the cultural purview of the coffee industry.

Mentioned in this Episode

LoPhase Coffee (@lophasecoffee) - AM:FM (@amfm_coffee) - Ugly Duck Coffee (@uglyduckcoffee) Krudco Skateshop (@krudcoskateshop) - Hooked Venice (@hooked.venice) - Fauve Coffee (@fauve_coffee)

Shoutouts

The Potted Bean (@the_pottedbean) - Kopani Coffee (@kopanicoffee)

Mentioned in this episode:

Common Thread

Check out Common Thread on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/common-threads-hardcore/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

New to Specialty Coffee, Anthony Coffaro of The Potted Bean Brings Passion and Curiosity

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 07:00:00 -0400

Aaron, Chris, and Wade sit down with Anthony Coffaro of The Potted Bean: a very new coffee popup here in Rochester. Anthony's journey in Specialty Coffee began five years ago when a friend replaced his morning drive-thru coffee with a local Rochester option. Since then, Anthony's growing passion and natural curiosity have led him to a love of coffee service through the Potted Bean.

Shoutouts

Potted Bean (@the_pottedbean) - Pearson's (@ilovepearsonsroc) - Charlie Riedel's (@charliereidelsrestaurant) - Valor Coffee (@valor.coffee) - AM:FM (@amfm_coffee) - Artisan Works (@artisanworksny) - Sips Coffee & Cafe (@sipsrochester) - Irondequoit Market (@irondequoit_market) - Fauve Coffee (@fauve_coffee)

Mentioned in this episode:

It’s A Lot

Check out It’s A Lot on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/itsalot/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Fauve coffee is bringing a wealth of experience to bear on a curated coffee lineup

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 08:30:00 -0400

Chris and Wade sit down with Billy Lyons, Rochester native and founder of Fauve Coffee. Billy walks us through his wide-ranging experience in coffee and the art world, and how that comes to both are expressed in the unique perspective Fauve delivers.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

Mentioned in this episode:

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Nights and Weekends

Check out Nights and Weekends on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/nightsandweekends/

Episode 47: Mexican Coffee Tasting

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode we taste two coffees from different regions of Mexico and two different roasters. Then, we dive into some stats and characteristics of Mexican coffees.

You can still grab the @behindlassroc YearBook Zine (Years 1-3)!

Listen to @plantsxbeats by the illustrious @byrobbell.

C’mon. Who doesn’t love @fellowproducts Drops?

Coffees enjoyed in this episode were from @onyxcoffeelab and @broadsheetcoffee.

The ever-amazing Jackie McGriff BLEW OUR MINDS with a literally perfect, single-take ad read for @voicesproj during our break.

@allianceforcoffeeexcellence holds @cupofexcellence competitions and auctions in 17 countries. The results are fascinating.

Shoutouts

@uglyduckcoffee

@gimmecoffee

@fauve_coffee

Mentioned in this episode:

Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business

Check out Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/gettingrealwithbossy/

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode: 46 Industry Talks - Natural Process Coffee and Beyond

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:30:00 -0400

Peaks Coffee Company

Ugly Duck Coffee Company

Aporia Coffee Company

What is washed coffee?

What is Natural Process Coffee?

Anaerobic respiration

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Connections with Evan Dawson

Connections with Evan Dawson - Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts

Connections

Episode 45: The LOST Episode!

Sun, 25 Jan 2026 14:56:00 -0400

FINALLY! The LOST episode! This episode didn’t air because…life? Hard to even remember why it was shelved a year ago. And, it must be said, a lot has changed since we recorded it. The intention behind publishing it now is to provide context on a couple other episodes we published this past summer. If anything here spurs thoughts for you, please send them to us. This is a conversation for everyone.

Check out our Calgary Episodes for context! Episode 41 (Apple; Spotify) and Episode 42 (Apple; Spotify)

We mentioned last year’s Lunar New Year Celebration, but this year Winter Swan Coffee (@winterswancoffee) is hosting one on February 22!

This episode could easily be called our “name drop” episode, so forgive the unending list of Rochester coffee establishments mentioned here. You should support them all.

Mercury Coffee Co (@mercurycoffeeco)

AM:FM Coffee (@amfm_coffee)

Happy Gut Sanctuary (@happygut.sanctuary)

New City Cafe & Roastery (@newcityroc)

Joe Bean Roasters (@joebeanroasters)

Ink Wtr Coffee & Tea (@ink_wtr)

Legendary Beans (@legendofthebeans)

Language of Coffee (@lanuageofcoffeeny)

Imprint Coffee Roasting (@imprintcoffeeroasting)

Coffee Connection now includes Our Blend Coffee & Roastery (@coffeeconnectionmarketplace)

Java’s Cafe (@javascafe)

Fuego Coffee Roasters (@fuegocoffee)

Union Place Coffee Roasters (@unionplacecoffeeroasters)

Hydra Coffee House (@hydracoffeehouse)

Melo Coffee & Kitchen (@melocoffee.kitchen)

Leaf & Bean Coffee Co (@leafandbeancoffee)

The Yards Collective (@attheyards)

Gold Mountain Coffee Growers (@goldmtncoffee)

Pandemonium Coffee House (@pandamoniumcoffeehouse)

Mentioned in this episode:

Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business

Check out Getting Real with Bossy: For Women Who Own Business on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/gettingrealwithbossy/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 44: Adam Almansoob of Albunn Coffee House

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 07:45:00 -0400

We sat down with Adam Almansoob of Albunn Coffee House to hear about their inspirations, goals, and incredibly rich appreciation for the history and culture of coffee.

Check out @albunncoffeehouse!

Sanaani coffee sounds new, but I’m sure you’ll find it’s very familiar.

Coffee was not discovered by a #@*&ing goat, but you should still read up on coffee history.

Yemen occupies a truly unique space in world history!

Rochester Business Journal (@rbjdaily) did a great write up of the changes coming to Citygate.

Shout out to the Islamic Center of Rochester.

Brush up on Ramadan.

Watch Outkast’s Rock Hall of Fame Induction Speech.

Albunn serves treats by @special_occasions_sweets

Shout outs

@elvioscoffee

@halal_yemen_restaurant

Mentioned in this episode:

Common Thread

Check out Common Thread on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/common-threads-hardcore/

It’s A Lot

Check out It’s A Lot on Lunchador! https://feeds.captivate.fm/itsalot/

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 43: Grab Bag or The Holiday Gift Guide

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 11:16:00 -0400

Brewers

Goose neck Kettles

Hario Goose Neck Kettle
Fellow Stagg Kettle

Scales

Update on Starbucks union strike

The Starbucks Bearista

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 42: Calgary pt. 2

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Chris wraps up the discussion of his trip to Calgary. This is part two of a two-part series in which we analyze how a coffee scene takes on the particular identity Chris discovered in Calgary. This episode features some comparative analysis and critique of the Rochester coffee scene based on Chris’s reactions to and feelings about the scene in Calgary.

The shop that truly enchanted Chris with the Calgary coffee scene is Sought X Found.

We will air the lost episode.

If you don’t recall the details of the panel discussion referred to, check back to Episode 40.

Shoutouts

Monogram Coffee (@monogramco)

Ugly Duck (@uglyduckcoffee)

Pearson’s (@ilovepearsonsroc)

Particle Coffee (@particlecoffee)

Lo-Phase (@lophasecoffee)

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 41: Calgary pt. 1

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we hear about Producer Chris Lindstrom’s experience visiting the coffee scene of Calgary. This is part one of a two-part series in which we analyze how a coffee scene takes on the particular color Chris discovered in Calgary. This episode is predominantly narrative: Chris describes the spaces and drinks that made for a one-of-a-kind experience. Stay tuned for part two, where we compare the Rochester scene and explore how we’ve developed in a completely different direction.

Visit Travel Alberta (@travelalberta) for more information on the sites Chris describes from his visit.

Stop 1: Q Lab by Chronicle Coffee (@qlabcoffee)

The barista competitor whose name Wade forgot is Michael Phillips (@1shot4theroad) who won the WBC representing the US and Intelligentsia Coffee in London in 2010.

Comandante hand grinders (@comandantegrinder) are thoughtfully made and changing minds about the utility and potential of hand grinders. On top of that, the company has invested in the global coffee community by sponsoring competitions all over the world.

Stop 2: Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters (@philandseb)

Stop 3: Monogram Coffee (@monogramco)

Benjamin Put (@benjaminput) represented Canada at the World Barista Championship again this year and took third place.

Apex Coffee Imports (@apexcoffeeimports) has fostered some special relationships across the world to build an excellent portfolio of green coffees.

Stop 4: Eight Ounce Coffee (@eightouncecoffee)

Stop 5: Particle Coffee (@particlecoffee)

Shoutouts

xBloom (@xbloom_coffee)

Ugly Duck (@uglyduckcoffee)

Lo-Phase (@lophasecoffee)

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 40: Panel Discussion at Aporia Coffee Co

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 18:30:00 -0400

This episode features a panel discussion held at Aporia Coffee Co with Rory van Grol of Ugly Duck Coffee (@uglyduckcoffee) and Angela Liu of Pandamonium Coffee House (@pandamoniumcoffeehouse). They shared their unique approaches to opening a coffee shop in Rochester 10 years ago and 17 months ago.

Rory credits Joe Bean and The Owl House with supporting his vision in the early years of launching Ugly Duck, which began on Sundays at Scratch Bakeshop, Saturdays at Fiorella, along with weekend popups at Swillburger, Thread, and other private events.

Angela links her success to the support network she has in Happy Gut Sanctuary (@happygut.sanctuary) and Winter Swan Coffee (@winterswancoffee)

Shoutouts

New City Cafe

@newcityroc

Fuego Coffee Roasters

@fuegocoffee

Montgomery Court Coffee

@montgomerycourtcoffee

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Guglielmo's Home Grown Marinara Sauce

Guglielmo's Home Grown Marinara Sauce is available in your favorite grocery stores! Pick up a jar today! https://www.guglielmosauce.com/

Epsiode 39: An Update on CVA and Q-Grading

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this short episode, we look at news from April about a massive change in the structure of how Specialty Coffee is graded and some criticisms from industry insiders.

Here’s a great introduction to the 9-Point Hedonic Scale.

The @specialtycoffeeassociation Coffee Value Assessment is meant to give professionals a fuller language for describing quality, a language that potentially meets the market at a number of points of contact.

We’ve previously covered the Coffee Value Assessment and Q-Grading on Dialed In.

The Coffee Sensory & Cupping Handbook by @mariofernandezalduenda and @petereodesic is an essential resource for understanding sensory science as it relates to coffee.

A study based on affective testing found that coffee drinkers’ taste preferences can be correlated not only to flavors discovered in descriptive analysis, but also the the object TDS numbers of each brew.

Shoutouts

@itsjustcoffeepodcast

@elvioscoffee

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 38: Colin Floom of Montgomery Court

Sat, 20 Sep 2025 10:15:00 -0400

We sat down with Colin Floom of Montgomery Court Coffee to hear his story of everything from fishing boats in Alaska to how he met his wife and partner Courtney to his experience with the city’s Zoning Alignment Project.

Go follow @montgomerycourtcoffee to keep up with Colin and the team

@languageofcoffeeny is the roasting side of Montgomery Court

Bored? Read about the Zoning Board. But for the real scoop on zoning, check out the Zoning Alignment Project

Shoutouts

@roostercatcoffeehouse

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Behind the Studio Door

Behind the Studio Door, hosted by Molly Darling and Christian Rivera, takes listeners on a captivating exploration of artists and their creative processes. Through deep and meaningful conversations, they uncover the stories and experiences that shape the outward expression of their work. https://behind-the-studio-door.captivate.fm/

Episode 37: Is coffee a "universal language?"

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 10:33:00 -0400

John Cena likes coffee, and our many opinions about that lead into conversations about standardization, cafe identity, signaling, and how to (and NOT to!) communicate in a hospitality environment.

5:25 - Pilot Coffee, Toronto, ON Canada

9:33 - Watch the John Cena flat white video on @bonappetitmag

12: 05 - Don’t wikipedia flat white

31:22 - @melocoffee.kitchen

40:30 - @cartelroastingco

40:35 - @oldpueblogrill

45:25 - @rochesterfringe x @lunchadorpodcasts

46:00 - @commonthreadhxcpodcast

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Behind the Glass

Behind the Glass, hosted by Richard B Colón and Quajay Donnell, is a monthly talk with the current month’s BTG Roster. Artists are interviewed about their submissions and we dive deep into their process, inspiration and thought process centralized around their artwork in the Behind the Glass Gallery located in the heart of Downtown Rochester NY. https://behind-the-glass-gallery.captivate.fm/

Episode 36: Tariffs and Starbucks

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 06:00:00 -0400

In the inaugural episode of Season Three, Aaron, Chris, and Wade celebrate “Coffee Outside Season,” pull some receipts on tariffs, fall down a Reddit hole, and, once again, talk Starbucks.

Tariff Overview: https://perfectdailygrind.com/2025/04/how-us-tariffs-will-impact-global-coffee-industry/

23:30: Great BBC piece about tariffs on Brazil: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c5yl00qlyz9o

24:51: Understanding the C-Market: https://sprudge.com/what-is-the-c-market-183157.html

30:42: If you’re interested in the NCA’s Advocacy, check out @nationalcoffeeusa

https://www.ncausa.org/Advocacy

48:00: Starbucks closing “Starbucks Pick Up”

https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2025/07/31/starbucks-to-shut-down-all-pick-up-stores-see-new-york-locations/85466762007/

1:00:00: Park Ave Starbucks & Montgomery Court

Shoutouts!

5:32 - @dewolfbrewing

5:56: @rochesterfringe previews can be found on @lunchadorpodcasts

6:15: Check out @karmasauce on @foodabouttownpodcast

Hudson Whiskey

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Episode 35 - Coffee Tasting: Black and White Coffee Roasters -The Future PainKiller

Wed, 14 May 2025 11:06:00 -0400

Fellow Drops

The Future Painkiller

The Pain Killer Cocktail

Xocoveza by Stone

Episode 34 - Coffee Tasting: Washed Columbia Huila Castillo and a natural Uganda

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:00:00 -0400

https://crecertspecialtycoffee.com/productor/yaqueline-hernandez/

https://interamericancoffee.com/uganda-nkg-bloom-silverback/

Mentioned in this episode:

Refined Taste - Cripsy Comedy at Crisp!

Check out Dario and Chris from Refined Taste and other guest comics at CRIPS 3/7! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crispy-comedy-stand-up-at-crisp-rochester-tickets-814152982487

Episode 33 - Elvios with Dan and Elvio Fernandes

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 22:58:00 -0400

https://www.instagram.com/elviofernandes?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.gvalleyclub.org/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 32 - Coffee Tasting: yunnan china and anarobic ethiopian

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 11:45:00 -0400

buba kiki study https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bouba/kiki_effect

https://pacificarenew.com/products/dongka-washed ( yunnan china)

Paper Plane cocktail

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Glass

Podcast and gallery focusing on underrepresented artists utilize the space to amplify their work. Curated by @Richardbcolon @qua.jay. Check out the podcast or join them in person first Fridays at 240 E Main St, Rochester, NY! https://behind-the-glass-gallery.captivate.fm

Episode 31 -Tasting Coffee washed Mexico Natural VS. Mexico Niaret

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 11:21:00 -0400

https://pacificarenew.com/products/gruppo-terruno-washed

https://pacificarenew.com/products/grupo-terruno-natural

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Studio Door

Late Night Coffee Tasting: Little Waves Gesha X 1959 for Standart

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:18:00 -0400

In this episode we taste a special edition Geisha roasted by Little Waves Coffee Roasters in combination with Cafe 1959. This washed coffee brings notes of candied lemon, raspberry and a variety of florals. The complexity and depth of this coffee is enhanced by the suggested use of the included Sibaist Specialty Fast Cone S coffee filter.

Links referenced in this episode:

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Glass

From Home Barista to Mobile Espresso: Meet Mercury Coffee - Food About Town

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 07:00:00 -0400

Mercury Coffee Company, a new mobile coffee brand in Rochester out of The Commissary (@roccommissary), joins hosts Chris Lindstrom, Aaron Pascucci, and Wade Reed from Level Up (@levelup.wny) to delve into the journey of launching their venture, from the inspiration behind their delicious offerings to the challenges of starting a business in the food and beverage industry. Co-founders Kyle and Isabelle O'Gara share insights on crafting balanced coffee drinks that resonate with new and seasoned coffee drinkers, emphasizing the importance of flavor and approachability. Join the discussion as they explore the art of coffee making, the significance of brand identity, and the exciting future of Mercury Coffee Company.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

@mercurycoffeeco
@UglyDuckCoffee
@WinterSwanCoffee
@holykakow
@scottsphotoroc
@butterjoybakery
@clementine_roc

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone.

Use promo code Lunchador for 15% off your order! https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Punches & Popcorn

The masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films. https://punches-and-popcorn.captivate.fm/

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin (@magnusapollo) interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Cult Leaders, community, and A Grey Nato

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 16:48:00 -0400

Cult Leader Coffee - Astral Projection

https://player.captivate.fm/episode/15869f9d-341b-4dbd-8bfa-1139e09b8893/

Drinking Ditta Artigianale

https://player.captivate.fm/episode/3e932768-f84c-4343-820c-603cc02a383b/

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Studio Door

Episode 22: Astral Projection From Cult Leader Coffee

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 21:23:00 -0400

https://www.cultleadercoffee.com/product-page/astral-projection-medium-roast

https://www.hodinkee.com/

Counter Culture Coffee

https://thegreynato.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Lunchador Podcast Network

Lunchador Podcast Network is a network of podcasts originating in Rochester, NY. Our goal is bringing creative people together to be a positive force in the arts community. The shows that make up Lunchador are owned by the creators and cover a wide range of topics and backgrounds. http://lunchador.org/

Third Wave Coffee: The Must-Visit Spot in Toronto

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:03:00 -0400

www.thirdwavecoffeeinc.com

https://ethicaroasters.com/

https://hellodemello.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Starbucks' Identity Crisis: Are They a Third Place or Just a Chain?

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 17:58:00 -0400

Show Notes

"Unfiltered" - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt8912280/

Other Half Brewing - https://otherhalfbrewing.com/
Aporia Coffee - https://www.aporiacoffee.com/
AM FM - https://www.instagram.com/amfm_coffee/
Best of Panama
Perfect Daily Grind
- https://perfectdailygrind.com/2024/10/diversity-in-gesha-coffee-panama-processing/
Joe Bean - https://shop.joebeanroasters.com/
Ugly Duck - https://www.uglyduckcoffee.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Behind the Beans: Ditta Artigianale

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:46:00 -0400

Standart Magazine - LInk

Ditta Artigianale Specialty Coffee - Link

Duck Rabbit Coffee - Link

The Kalita Wave - Link

Fellow Ode

Chris's Brew

15g Ground Coffee

250 grams brewed Coffee

204 degrees F

Mentioned in this episode:

Refined Taste with Dario & Chris

Weekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 017: The Coffee Supply Chain is a Mess

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In a "lost" episode recorded in July, Aaron, Wade, and Producer Chris Lindstrom discuss some coffee news that illustrates the systemic inequalities and poor policymaking decisions that plague the coffee supply chain.

Mentioned in this episode:

Behind the Studio Door

Drinking Coffee - Intelligentsia Colombia El Futuro

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:06:00 -0400

Intelligentsia for Standart

Mentioned in this episode:

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Drinking Coffee - Scenery Coffee

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:13:00 -0400

In this coffee session Wade and Aaron discuss Scenery Coffee from England. Colombia El Encanto brewed using the cleaver dripper. See our impressions below.

Scenery Coffee

Coffee Archive: Colombia El Encanto

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 016: Coffee isn't just a drink.

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Aaron, Wade, and Chris sit down with Angela Liu of Pandamonium Coffee in Rochester's North Winton Village to talk about the inspirations and stories behind her new and very community-oriented coffeeshop.

Go visit Angela at 686 N Winton Rd, at pandamoniumcoffee.com, and on IG @pandamoniumcoffeehouse.

Find more show notes here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Pauly Guglielmo Show

Pauly Guglielmo is a former radio guy turned food business entrepreneur. While running a manufacturing facility is his day job, he likes to dust off his broadcasting skills once a week on this podcast and talk to entrepreneurs and other influencers. https://pauly-guglielmo-show.captivate.fm/

Episode 015: Atlanta is for Coffee Lovers

Fri, 12 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400

Aaron Pascucci sits down with producer Chris Lindstrom to discuss Chris' recent trip to Atlanta, Georgia and the many coffee gems he discovered. Full show notes here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Behind the Glass

Episode 014: All the robots were men??

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In part three of our conversation with Bob Kruger and Mary Vacca of Ugly Duck Coffee, we attempt to dive into the world of Expo tech. However, we find a lot of detours along the way and can't quite get around the big personalities at the table.

Mentioned in this episode:

Refined Taste with Dario & Chris

Weekly Live show where comedians Dario Joseph and Chris Thompson talk and laugh with representatives of Rochester, New York’s food and drink scene.

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 013: Oh, you're that person?

Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In part two of our conversation with Bob Kruger and Mary Vacca of Ugly Duck Coffee, we hear how they ended up at Expo this year, all the great connections they made, and what life is like as a famous coffee social media personality working for a famous multi-roaster coffee shop.

More show notes, covering everything mentioned in the episode, available on our Substack.

Thanks for listening!

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Episode 012: How many co-ferments can you drink in 20 minutes?

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 06:00:00 -0400

We sit down with Bob Kruger and Mary Vacca of Ugly Duck Coffee to hear about their time at the 2024 Specialty Coffee Association Expo in Chicago, IL.

Visit us on Substack for a list of links related to the episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Behind the Studio Door

Episode 011: Introducing Blue Heron Coffee

Thu, 16 May 2024 21:29:00 -0400

Aubrey Mowers, of Blue Heron coffee shares with us how she ventured from drinking Folgers coffee to becoming an SCA certified roaster and barista.

https://www.instagram.com/blueheroncoffeeroc/

https://rococorochester.com/

https://www.uglyduckcoffee.com/

https://sca.coffee/

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Starbucks Workers United brings Megacorporation to the table: Mini-Episode

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 07:15:00 -0400

A quick update about the progress of Starbucks Workers United, and the first signs of the company's willingness to slow or stop what many consider to be retaliatory, anti-union practices. We look at recent statements from the company and a quick history of the SWU movement and what we can hope on from this shift in tone from the coffee giant.

Mentioned in this episode:

Joe Bean Roasters

Joe Bean Coffee - Coffee that lifts everyone. https://shop.joebeanroasters.com

Episode 010: What is "Big Coffee" and "Small Coffee?"

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Greek yogurt giant Chobani purchased La Colombe and we...have thoughts.

You can find breakdowns of the acquisition at technical.ly and Fast Company.

Rebel Beverage Labs is now Loftiwater.

Read up on the RTD coffee market at Perfect Daily Grind.

Madcap!

For some excellent analysis of the effects of private equity and market consolidation in coffee read and interact with Boss Barista and Coffee Intelligence.

If numbers are your thing, read this.

Shoutouts to Perc and Ugly Duck!

SCA: Toward a Definition of Specialty Coffee

Why 40 Blank Street locations opened in NYC. And why it sucks.

Shoutout to Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters.

Thanks for listening.

Special thanks to producer Chris Lindstrom, the Food About Town Studio, and The Lunchador Podcast Network.

You can find us on Substack and wherever you get your podcasts. Please subscribe, rate, review, and tell a friend to listen.

Also look for us on IG @levelup.wny. DM us your questions and future show suggestions and someone will read it.

Enjoy your coffee!

Mentioned in this episode:

Refined Taste - Cripsy Comedy at Crisp!

Check out Dario and Chris from Refined Taste and other guest comics at CRIPS 3/7! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/crispy-comedy-stand-up-at-crisp-rochester-tickets-814152982487

Mind of Magnus

Artist Magnus Champlin Interviews guests sharing the stories and life adventures with the goal of expanding minds.

Pauly Guglielmo Show

Ep 009: You Should Brew The Way Your Roaster Does!

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Hoop Brewer

Tricolate Brewer

Coffee Geek No- Bypass Coffee Brewing

Mentioned in this episode:

Punches & Popcorn

The masters of Couch Potato style Mike Huntone, Jason Bills, and Dr. Dominic D’Amore take a deep dive into the best and worst of martial arts films.

Behind the Studio Door

Coffee Education

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed talk about recent developments in Coffee Education after Producer Chris Lindstrom introduces the Lunchador Podcast Network.

Check out the Lunchador Podcast Network

Check out the Specialty Coffee Association and National Coffee Association for some solid, time-tested education resources.

Importers have also made meaningful contributions to the Coffee Education space: try out the Center for Coffee by Sucafina and Cafe Imports' Ed + U.

Some general education platforms also have coffee-related offerings: Uncommon Goods, Udemy, Skillshare, Good Form.

Shoutout to our friends at Coffee Geek!

We are the Proud Mary fanclub.

Check out Level Up on Instagram and Substack.

Mentioned in this episode:

Food About Town

Food About Town hosted by Chris Lindstrom, focusing on restaurants, food and drink of all kinds, and whatever topics I want to cover! https://foodabouttown.captivate.fm/

Behind the Glass

Announcing the Lunchador Podcast Network!

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Lunchador co-founders Matt Austin and Chris Lindstrom talk about the new Lunchador Podcast Network, bringing you the best in arts, culture and more from Western NY!

www.lunchador.org

Coffee Design

Sat, 13 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Thanks for listening!

Level Up is a production of the Lunchador Podcast Network

Check out our producer Chris Lindstrom's podcast Food About Town

Level Up is Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed

You can find us on Instagram @levelup.wny please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes. DM us and someone will read it.

Enjoy your coffee!

Episode 006: Coffee Liqueur Experiment

Sun, 05 Nov 2023 13:00:00 -0400

Producer Chris Lindstrom invited Aaron and Wade to taste his coffee liqueur experiments, which leads to dialogue on all kinds of related topics

Thanks for listening!

Special thanks to our sponsor Nominate Meals

Check out our producer Chris Lindstrom's podcast Food About Town

Level Up is Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed

You can find us on Instagram @levelup.wny please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes. DM us and someone will read it.

We mentioned a number of makers and groups in this episode. A roundup of those can be found on our substack.

Enjoy your coffee!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 005: Coffee & Photography

Sat, 09 Sep 2023 13:59:00 -0400

Thanks for listening!

Thanks to Producer Chris Lindstrom and the Food About Town Studio

Special Thanks to our sponsor Nominate Meals

Level Up is Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed

You can find us on Instagram @levelup.wny please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes. DM us and someone will read it.

Check out Narada's website: https://www.callmenrad.com/ and on IG: @nrad257

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 004: Sensory Science Revisited

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 09:30:00 -0400

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

BONUS Episode 3.5: Climate Change Cont'd

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 09:30:00 -0400

With a topic this huge, a lot was left on the cutting room floor, but here it is!

This episode is a little different, and will sound a little rough at times, but we know you'll get a lot out of the additional content!

Thanks for listening!

Thanks to Producer Chris Lindstrom and the Food About Town Studio

Special thanks to our sponsor Nominate Meals and our guest host Janine Melnick

Level Up is Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed

You can find us on Substack or Instagram (@levelup.wny) please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes, if you DM us someone will read it

All resources used in this episode can be found here:

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 3: Climate Change

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 21:18:00 -0400

Thanks for listening!

Thanks to Producer Chris Lindstrom and the Food About Town Studio

Special thanks to our sponsor Nominate Meals

Level Up is Aaron Pascucci and Wade Reed

You can find us on Instaram: @levelup.wny, please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes, if you DM us someone will read it

All resources used in this episode can be found here: https://levelupwny.substack.com/p/episode-3-resources-climate-change?sd=pf

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 2: Sensory Science Overview

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 11:17:00 -0400

Thanks for listening!

Thanks to Producer Chris Lindstrom and the Food About Town Studio

Special Thanks to our sponsor Nominate Meals

Level Up is Sapphire Courchaine, Aaron Pascucci, and Wade Reed

You can find us on Instagram at levelup.wny, please reach out with any questions or requests for future episodes, please DM us and someone will read it.

All resources used in this episode can be found here: https://open.substack.com/pub/levelupwny/p/episode-2-sensory-science-overview?r=2eq6c1&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 1: Audience, Preference, and Responsibility in Specialty Coffee

Fri, 12 May 2023 10:00:00 -0400

Resources used in this episode can be found here: https://open.substack.com/pub/levelupwny/p/episode-1-audience-preference-and?r=2eq6c1&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Episode 0: Who are we? What is Level Up?

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 04:47:00 -0400

John Cannon, Sapphire Courchaine, Aaron Pascucci, and Wade Reed give us their individual coffee journeys and talk about what drives Level Up and our plans for the future.

Check out our website for updates on classes, events, more media, and direct consultations: https://www.levelupwny.com/

You can find us on Instagram @levelup.wny.

Thanks for listening!

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit levelupwny.substack.com

Dialed In: A Coffee Podcast

"Season Three" Wrap

Lily and Michelle Soehadi of Kopani Coffee are Pouring Gotong Royong in Every Cup

Marvin Gay of LoPhase Coffee Wants You to Know Coffee Comes from Africa

New to Specialty Coffee, Anthony Coffaro of The Potted Bean Brings Passion and Curiosity

Fauve coffee is bringing a wealth of experience to bear on a curated coffee lineup

Episode 47: Mexican Coffee Tasting

Episode: 46 Industry Talks - Natural Process Coffee and Beyond

Episode 45: The LOST Episode!

Episode 44: Adam Almansoob of Albunn Coffee House

Episode 43: Grab Bag or The Holiday Gift Guide

Episode 42: Calgary pt. 2

Episode 41: Calgary pt. 1

Episode 40: Panel Discussion at Aporia Coffee Co

Epsiode 39: An Update on CVA and Q-Grading

Episode 38: Colin Floom of Montgomery Court

Episode 37: Is coffee a "universal language?"

Episode 36: Tariffs and Starbucks

Episode 35 - Coffee Tasting: Black and White Coffee Roasters -The Future PainKiller

Episode 34 - Coffee Tasting: Washed Columbia Huila Castillo and a natural Uganda

Episode 33 - Elvios with Dan and Elvio Fernandes

Episode 32 - Coffee Tasting: yunnan china and anarobic ethiopian

Episode 31 -Tasting Coffee washed Mexico Natural VS. Mexico Niaret

Late Night Coffee Tasting: Little Waves Gesha X 1959 for Standart

From Home Barista to Mobile Espresso: Meet Mercury Coffee - Food About Town

Cult Leaders, community, and A Grey Nato

Episode 22: Astral Projection From Cult Leader Coffee

Third Wave Coffee: The Must-Visit Spot in Toronto

Starbucks' Identity Crisis: Are They a Third Place or Just a Chain?

Behind the Beans: Ditta Artigianale

Episode 017: The Coffee Supply Chain is a Mess

Drinking Coffee - Intelligentsia Colombia El Futuro

Drinking Coffee - Scenery Coffee

Episode 016: Coffee isn't just a drink.

Episode 015: Atlanta is for Coffee Lovers

Episode 014: All the robots were men??

Episode 013: Oh, you're *that* person?

Episode 012: How many co-ferments can you drink in 20 minutes?

Episode 011: Introducing Blue Heron Coffee

Starbucks Workers United brings Megacorporation to the table: Mini-Episode

Episode 010: What is "Big Coffee" and "Small Coffee?"

Ep 009: You Should Brew The Way Your Roaster Does!

Coffee Education

Announcing the Lunchador Podcast Network!

Coffee Design

Episode 006: Coffee Liqueur Experiment

Episode 005: Coffee & Photography

Episode 004: Sensory Science Revisited

*BONUS* Episode 3.5: Climate Change Cont'd

Episode 3: Climate Change

Episode 2: Sensory Science Overview

Episode 1: Audience, Preference, and Responsibility in Specialty Coffee

Episode 0: Who are we? What is Level Up?

Episode 013: Oh, you're that person?

BONUS Episode 3.5: Climate Change Cont'd