In this soul-soothing episode of Mugside – The Opaqa Coffee Podcast, James and Hope explore how mindful coffee rituals, especially during the sacred golden hours of morning and evening, can elevate both mental well-being and sensory pleasure.

From the stillness of sunrise to the quiet reflection of sunset, we discuss how slowing down with a cup of coffee can become a daily act of mindfulness. You’ll experience a guided coffee-tasting meditation, discover tips for crafting calming moments at home, and learn how to turn your brew into a full-sensory ritual. We also share stories from listeners who’ve woven mindfulness into their coffee routines in beautiful, personal ways.

Whether you're sipping alone at dawn or winding down at dusk, this episode offers a gentle invitation to make coffee not just something you drink, but something you feel.

Summer is here, and it’s time to chill, literally. In this refreshing new episode of Mugside – The Opaqa Coffee Podcast, James and Hope dive headfirst into the world of iced coffee, guiding you through the essentials of brewing the perfect cup for those hot days. Whether you’re team flash-chilled or cold brew all the way, this episode has everything you need to elevate your iced coffee game.

From the science behind extraction temperatures and dilution rates to common cold brew pitfalls and flash-chilled espresso tips (yes, we’re talking peach and green apple notes!), you’ll walk away knowing exactly how to brew with confidence. Along the way, expect personal stories, summer memories, a bit of friendly debate, and a curated playlist to sip along to.

We’ll also unpack what acidity and body really mean in the context of iced coffee, how to avoid flavor flatness, and ways to pair your brew with summer snacks that enhance every sip. Whether you're chilling by the pool, working from a sunlit patio, or exploring a new brew method at home, this episode is your go-to summer brew guide.

Pour yourself something cool and get ready to taste summer like never before.

Travel to the heart of Africa’s coffee heritage in this deeply flavorful episode. James and Hope start by celebrating Africa's essential role as the birthplace of coffee, tracing its rich historical path from the ancient Ethiopian highlands to modern-day Kenya. Join them as they journey into Kenya’s picturesque highlands, introducing the Gititu Farmers Cooperative—one of the oldest and most revered specialty coffee cooperatives in Kenya. Discover the communal brewing rituals, cultural traditions, and sensory magic of Gititu Gold, Opaqa’s premium Kenya AA coffee. This coffee delights with vibrant notes of green apple, ripe peach, and smooth vanilla. With insightful personal anecdotes, friendly banter, and practical brewing tips, James and Hope share an intimate exploration of how deeply coffee is woven into Kenyan culture, community, and daily life.