Nick Mabey and Michael Cleland, co-founders of Assembly Coffee, are leading the way in independent roasting with a focus on innovation and sustainability. In this episode, we explore their journey from concept to opening Assembly, how they are shaping the future of specialty coffee, and what it truly takes to run a business grounded in sustainability and forward-thinking practices.

Hear firsthand how Assembly Coffee combines craft, care, and conscience to create exceptional coffee while pushing the industry toward a more responsible future.

Credits music: "Soho" by Eirra in association with The Coffee Music Project
Create a free profile on The London Coffee Guide website, subscribe to @thelondoncoffeeguide on Instagram and follow the latest coffee news, openings, and stories from London’s specialty scene.

Ant Duckworth, founder and CEO of Dear Coco, has taken a humble mobile coffee van and turned it into a West London favourite — now expanding to multiple locations. In this episode, we explore what it truly takes to run a coffee business in today’s economic climate, from managing growth to staying resilient in challenging times.

Ant also shares how his authentic approach to social media has become a cornerstone of Dear Coco’s success, helping to build a loyal community around great coffee. Tune in to hear the story behind one of West London’s most beloved coffee brands.

Credits music: "Could This Be Real" by Aleks in Flux in association with The Coffee Music Project
Create a free profile on The London Coffee Guide website, subscribe to @thelondoncoffeeguide on Instagram and follow the latest coffee news, openings, and stories from London’s specialty scene.

In this episode, host Jeffrey Young sits down with Saskia Blum, co-founder of Batch Baby — one of East London’s standouts and firmly in our LCG Top 10.

Saskia shares how Batch Baby grew from a tiny neighbourhood spot into a vibrant community hub, how creative collaborations helped the business thrive, and why keeping things fun behind the bar matters just as much as brewing excellent coffee.

Tune in and dive into one of the most joyful stories in London’s specialty coffee scene.

Credits music: "Finance 300" by Kri in association with The Coffee Music Project
Create a free profile on The London Coffee Guide website, subscribe to @thelondoncoffeeguide on Instagram and follow the latest coffee news, openings, and stories from London’s specialty scene.

Welcome to The London Coffee Podcast, a brand-new interview series exploring the people, passion, and creativity behind London’s specialty coffee scene.

Our host, Jeffrey Young, sits down with founders, entrepreneurs, and key people behind some of London’s most inspiring coffee businesses — uncovering the stories, lessons, and craft that shape one of the most vibrant coffee cities on the planet.

In this first episode, Jeffrey chats with Paul Ross, founder of Special Guests and two-time UK Barista Champion. Paul shares his journey through the world of coffee — from competition wins to creating what is now one of London’s standout cafés, recently ranked among the Top 10 in The London Coffee Guide.

So grab a coffee and join us — as we find out what’s so special about Special Guests. ☕️

Credits music: "London’s Brewing" by Jnay in association with The Coffee Music Project and SEB Collective
Create a free profile on The London Coffee Guide website, subscribe to @thelondoncoffeeguide on Instagram and follow the latest coffee news, openings, and stories from London’s specialty scene.