La Colombe Coffee Roasters: Todd Carmichael and J.P. Iberti. A Brotherhood Built on Coffee (2020)

In this episode, Todd Carmichael and JP Iberti recount their journey of founding La Colombe Coffee Roasters, a company that revolutionized the specialty coffee industry in the U.S. Starting as part-time baristas, they had a vision of creating high-quality, flavorful coffee sourced directly from farmers. The pair discusses their initial meeting in Seattle and their unique bond, which fueled their entrepreneurial spirit.

They describe how they navigated the early days of their business, making a significant impact on the coffee culture by focusing on quality and direct relationships with coffee farmers. Despite the 1990s challenges, La Colombe developed a strong reputation in the restaurant industry, supplying some of the best kitchens in the country. Through hard work and strategic decisions, the company grew, eventually leading to their idea for cold brew coffee.

As La Colombe expanded, they faced challenges with outside investors who wanted to push the brand in a different direction. However, they successfully bought out the investors with the help of Hamdi Ulukaya from Chobani, who became a significant partner in their journey. The co-founders reflect on their experiences, from overcoming personal struggles to achieving financial success, ultimately emphasizing the importance of luck and timing along with hard work in their story, filled with highs and lows.