Coffee, Culture and Le Cordon Blue: Spilling the Beans with Enrique

People at the Core

Ever found yourself captivated by the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and wondered about the story behind the beans?* Enrique, our guest this week, is a coffee buyer with an exceptional tale that starts in the vibrant heart of Oxnard, California, and stretches across continents. As he unfolds his family's journey from Mexico to the US, we connect over the shared experiences of cultural heritage and the pursuit of dreams far from where our stories began.
Embark on an exploration through the highs and lows of culinary education, the gritty details of the job market, and the balancing act with student debt. Enrique's career path, from food writing to mastering the coffee industry in NYC, is a testament to resilience and the power of following one's passion. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone intrigued by the complexities of coffee—from the subtle art of roasting to the ethics of direct trade and fair wages in the supply chain.
Our conversation concludes with the bittersweet decision to bid farewell to New York's towering skyline for Madrid's charming streets. Enrique shares a deeper look into the enduring influence of family on work ethic and identity, stirring up nostalgia and laughter with tales of his parents' quirks. Join us for a heartfelt episode that's as much about the love and labor poured into each cup of coffee as it is about the indelible marks of family and heritage on our lives.
*Please be patient with us as we improve our recording and editing techniques and equipment. Every conversation we have had with our guests have been too rich and wonderful to not share. We appreciate you all hanging in there as we continue to learn and grow. Huge thanks to Tim Gideon for salvaging this episode!
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Kapitel

1. Intimate Conversations With Eclectic Individuals (00:00:00)

2. Culinary School Experiences and Reflections (00:13:26)

3. Coffee Importing and Roasting Logistics (00:25:24)

4. Sustainable Direct Trade Coffee Initiatives (00:36:21)

5. Fair Wages in Coffee Supply (00:43:39)

6. Move to Madrid for Lower Costs (00:53:36)

7. Family Dynamics and Personal Identity (00:57:11)