Best London Coffee Guide Podcasts (2025)

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Hogmanay | A Traditional Scottish New Year 40:33

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44m ago40:33

40:33

Celebrated as Scotland’s traditional New Year’s festival, Hogmanay is rich with ancient customs, heartfelt gatherings, and a touch of mystery. From Viking roots and fire festivals to the tradition of first-footing and singing “Auld Lang Syne,” Hogmanay is a celebration unlike any other. Tonight, journey through the history, folklore, and enduring s…

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Episode 72: Inventive Hellos and Economic Goodbyes 28:05

7h ago28:05

28:05

The word Hello showed up just as the world was changing . . . in the absolute biggest ways ever. Nothing was the same after "Hello". In this episode we cross paths with Michigan J Frog, Tin Pan Alley, the Phonograph, Western Union, Laura Ingalls Wilder, Alexander Graham Bell, Scott Joplin, the telephone operator, Thomas Edison and J. N. Pattison.…

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Dates: A User's Guide 41:45

3m ago41:45

41:45

Dan Saladino explores culinary cultures and world religions to find out how the date became one of the earliest, most revered, and diverse of all cultivated fruits, and also a feature of Christmas. Some of the world's historically important date palm oases have survived in the south of Tunisia. Dan travels to the ancient cities of Gafsa and Tozeur …

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Assembly Coffee: Innovation, Sustainability, and Independent Spirit 39:00

3d ago39:00

39:00

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 sustainabili…

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Department Stores 55:52

4d ago55:52

55:52

From their opulent rise in 19th-century Paris and London to their golden age in bustling American cities, department stores revolutionized shopping and shaped modern consumer culture. These grand spaces weren’t just for buying...they were places of wonder, luxury, and social change. Tonight, explore the evolution, charm, and cultural legacy of depa…

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Going Cold Turkey: Alternative Christmas Dinners 41:47

6d ago41:47

41:47

Annie Gray always rejects turkey and the trimmings at Christmas. She believes they are a construct of a bygone era and will often eat pizza on the big day instead.She explores alternative dinners from Christmases past, present and future. She visits Bath to discover what would have been eaten over Christmas in the Regency period and bakes tradition…

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Growing Dear Coco: Ant Duckworth on Community, Coffee, and Social Media 40:33

14d ago40:33

40:33

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 …

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Road To Redemption, by Tom Fitzgerald 56:07

10d ago56:07

56:07

Send us a text For today's episode we got to read another fictional running story. These are rare but we've enjoyed every single one we read so far and this one was no exception. Toeing the start line of the 1983 Boston Marathon, Cooper McKenzie (the main character) finds himself in a race to make meaning of his troubled, unimpressive life. Cooper …

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Eggnog 46:07

11d ago46:07

46:07

Known today as a creamy holiday treat, eggnog has a rich past that blends Old World traditions, American invention, and even a touch of rebellion. From its medieval European roots to its rise as a Christmas classic in the colonies, eggnog has long warmed winter nights. But in 1826, a spiked bowl of eggnog at West Point sparked one of the most unexp…

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The Food Books of 2025 42:27

13d ago42:27

42:27

Leyla Kazim takes a look at the best food books and writing from 2025, and chats to food writer Ruby Tandoh about her new book looking at why we eat the way we eat now. We hear picks from the rest of The Food Programme presenters - Sheila Dillon, Dan Saladino and Jaega Wise; books to get you cooking and books to get you thinking. Tom Tivnan from Th…

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Where Fun Meets Serious Coffee: Inside the Batch Baby Journey with Saskia Blum 31:06

21d ago31:06

31:06

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 matte…

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Marzipan 48:25

19d ago48:25

48:25

Tonight, indulge in the sweet and surprising history of marzipan. Made from almonds and sugar, marzipan has long been a symbol of celebration, luxury, and artistry—from medieval European courts to festive confections around the world. But where did this treat originate, and how did it become so beloved across cultures? Tonight, unwrap the rich and …

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The Great Tartan Tea Swindle 41:45

20d ago41:45

41:45

When Tam o’ Braan began marketing Scottish Tea from his Wee Tea Plantation, the response was astonishing. Upmarket retailers such as Fortnum and Mason and hotels from the Dorchester in London to the Balmoral in Edinburgh paid top prices for the supplies of this rare treat. Scottish farmers caught the bug and bought tea bushes from Tam's plantation …

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Alan and Liz's Running Chatter and Rundown on Books 111-120 1:40:31

24d ago1:40:31

1:40:31

Send us a text Here we are again with another recap episode. Alan and Liz chat about their last ten reads and we've also linked the full episode for each book in case you want to hear more! If you're behind in your listening then this episode is for you. You can get a feel for each of the last 10 books, before going back to the episodes in order of…

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The Roman Colosseum 47:27

25d ago47:27

47:27

Tonight, step into ancient Rome and explore the captivating history of the Colosseum. Once the grand stage for gladiators, emperors, and roaring crowds, the Colosseum has stood for nearly two thousand years as a symbol of power, entertainment, and engineering brilliance. But what stories lie within its ancient stones, and how did it come to represe…

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And the Winner Is... The BBC Food And Farming Awards 2025 41:47

27d ago41:47

41:47

The judges have reached their verdicts so who has won the coveted Food Programme chopping boards in 2025's BBC Food and Farming Awards? Sheila Dillon and chair of the judges Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall meet some of the best food and drink producers in the country at this week's ceremony in Bristol. Produced by Robin Markwell of BBC Audio in Bristol…

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Episode 71: The Amana Utopia and Patriot Missile 27:11

1M ago27:11

27:11

Can you imagine a group running on perfect communism, flourishing in the capitalist market and then eventually spawning the Patriot Missile - to fight actual Communists. And it happened twice. In this episode we cross paths with Quaker Oatmeal, microwave popcorn, Vennevar Bush, the Amana Colonies, Oneida Silverware, Bob Hope and Raytheon.…

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Benjamin Franklin 1:02:00

1M ago1:02:00

1:02:00

Inventor, writer, diplomat, and one of America’s Founding Fathers, Benjamin Franklin’s curiosity and brilliance helped shape the modern world. From printing presses and lightning experiments to revolutions and philosophies, his story is one of endless innovation and enduring wisdom. But his life was not without turmoil either. Tonight, travel back …

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Why Is Africa Feeding Us? 41:43

1M ago41:43

41:43

Dan Saladino and reporter Jack Thompson investigate the UK's growing dependence on two farms in northern Senegal based around a lake. In recent years they have become the source of most of the sweetcorn, radishes and beans sold by supermarkets. Is this a good arrangement for the UK and the Senegalese or a risk to food security in both countries? Pr…

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The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 48:42

1M ago48:42

48:42

It wasn't even the first Thanksgiving Day parade in the United States. But what began as a small holiday celebration in 1924 has grown into one of America’s most beloved traditions, complete with giant balloons, marching bands, and a touch of magic. From its humble beginnings to the iconic spectacle it is today, discover the story behind the parade…

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Ultra Women, by Lily Canter and Emma Wilkinson 58:30

1M ago58:30

58:30

Send us a text Recently, a trend has captured public attention: female athletes have been beating the strongest male contenders, in the toughest races in the world, races designed for men. In Ultra Women, the authors (who are themselves endurance athletes) delve into the surprising science of sporting performance to explore the physiological and ps…

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The Breakfast Club Challenge 42:51

1M ago42:51

42:51

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day - but what happens when thousands of children arrive at school too hungry to learn? In this programme, Jaega Wise looks into how the Government’s new free breakfast club scheme is being rolled out across England, seven months into a trial involving 750 primary schools. While the policy which …

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A Very Special Guest: Paul Ross at London Coffee Podcast 36:41

2M ago36:41

36:41

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 …

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Catherine the Great 48:15

2M ago48:15

48:15

Drift off to sleep with the remarkable life of Catherine the Great in this relaxing bedtime history story. From a young German princess to one of Russia’s most powerful and enlightened rulers, Catherine’s reign was marked by ambition, intelligence, and sweeping reform. But who was the woman behind the crown, and how did she leave such a lasting leg…

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Eels and Elvers 41:29

2M ago41:29

41:29

Dan Saladino looks at why eels numbers are plummeting and asks if the species can be saved. On the River Severn he meets the last of the glass eel fishermen and conservationists. Produced and presented by Dan Saladino.By BBC Radio 4

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The Gunpowder Plot 49:10

2M ago49:10

49:10

In 1605, a group of English Catholics plotted to blow up the Houses of Parliament and assassinate King James I. At the heart of it was Guy Fawkes, a name still remembered in England every November 5th. But what led to this bold plan, and how was it ultimately foiled? Tonight, explore the twists, turns, and lasting legacy of the Gunpowder Plot, one …

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Fuel For Thought, by Renee McGregor 1:06:55

2M ago1:06:55

1:06:55

Send us a text Link for 20% discount on Caffeine Bullet https://caffeinebullet.com/RUNNINGBOOK Discount automatically applied and visible on checkout Support the show Any feedback or suggestions on this review or any of our other podcast episodes would be greatly welcomed. Leave us a review using your favorite podcast player or contact us on social…

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Keeping It Local: A Suffolk Story 42:07

2M ago42:07

42:07

It's twenty years since the Aldeburgh Food Festival began. Sheila Dillon examines its impact in this small Suffolk seaside town where food producers work together to forge strong local supply chains. She speaks to the festival's co-founder Lady Caroline Cranbrook who has been a passionate advocate of Suffolk's rich food ecosystem. She goes on a sho…

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The Dead Sea Scrolls 58:00

2M ago58:00

58:00

Hidden in desert caves for nearly two thousand years, the Dead Sea Scrolls offer a rare and fascinating glimpse into ancient history, religion, and daily life. Who wrote them, and why were they sealed away for centuries? Tonight, journey to the shores of the Dead Sea as we explore the mystery, meaning, and legacy of the Dead Sea Scrolls, all while …

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Feeding Britain: Can Our Best Food Producers Deliver? 42:21

2M ago42:21

42:21

Sheila Dillon and this year’s head judge of the BBC Food and Farming Awards, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall, hit the road to meet the finalists in the Best Food Producer category. From sourdough pioneers Aidan Monks and Catherine Connor at Lovingly Artisan in Kendal, and regenerative grower Calixta Killander at Flourish Produce in Cambridgeshire, to c…

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Episode 70: Who Knows The Truth? Does A.I.? 31:23

2M ago31:23

31:23

Somewhere along the way, we lost the truth. The questions we ask about the truth haven't been the same since Orson Welles' War of the World's Broadcast in 1938, but that doesn't mean we haven't stopped trying. In this episode we cross paths with William Moulton Marston, Alice Guy-Blache, Frye Vs The United States, John Houseman, Alan Turing, The Sh…

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Bigfoot 49:26

2M ago49:26

49:26

For generations, tales of a mysterious, towering creature roaming the forests of North America have stirred curiosity and wonder. But the tales of Bigfoot (or Sasquatch) extend much farther back into history than you may think. From ancient Indigenous lore to modern-day sightings, Bigfoot has remained one of the most enduring mysteries in cryptozoo…

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The Food Innovators: 2025 41:35

2M ago41:35

41:35

Dan Saladino meets people behind pioneering projects rethinking the future of chocolate, seafood and food forests. Which one will win this year's BBC Best Food Innovation Award? Produced and presented by Dan Saladino.By BBC Radio 4

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Chasing the Grid, by Kenneth Posner 1:23:21

2M ago1:23:21

1:23:21

Send us a text Chasing The Grid is the story of the authors physical and spiritual journey running in the Catskill Mountains. Originally wanting to beat the record for climbing all 35 peaks in one outing, Kenneth Posner got injured on his second attempt and needed to find a new goal for his running. His new goal came from a chance encounter while i…

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Cinema 48:42

3M ago48:42

48:42

From flickering silent films to the golden age of Hollywood and the digital blockbusters of the modern day, the history of cinema is a tale of creativity, innovation, and storytelling. Discover how moving pictures came to be, captivated audiences, transformed culture, and became a beloved part of daily life. Tonight, we dime the lights and raise th…

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In Search of Mustard in Norwich 41:09

3M ago41:09

41:09

Five years ago, after 160 years in Norwich, the Colman's factory shut its doors for the last time. John Osborne is a writer, a poet and a performer - he's called Norwich home for 25 years. But last year, while writing a show about his city, he began to learn more about the depth of the history of Colman's, and he started to wonder why more people d…

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Ibn Battuta | The World's Greatest Traveler? 51:45

3M ago51:45

51:45

One of the greatest travelers the world has ever known, Ibn Battuta journeyed over 70,000 miles across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. And he did so centuries before modern maps or air travel. His detailed accounts offer a rare glimpse into the cultures, empires, and wonders of the 14th-century world. Tonight, follow in the footsteps of …

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Wales's Secret Ingredient: Lessons from Cymru on the Future of Food 42:38

3M ago42:38

42:38

Sheila Dillon is joined by four guests who each have a deep connection with Welsh food and farming for a panel discussion recorded at the 2025 Abergavenny Food Festival. Beca Lyne-Pirkis is a food writer and broadcaster; Patrick Holden is an organic farmer and founder of the Sustainable Food Trust; Carwyn Graves is a Welsh food historian and author…

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Stroke of Luck, by Steven Kelly 1:40:58

3M ago1:40:58

1:40:58

Send us a text Stroke of Luck: My Life in Amateur Athletics is a chronicle of passion and rediscovery—the emotional story of a dedicated competitive runner, Steven Kelly, whose participation in the sport spans fifty years. As a teenager, Steve searches for his niche while dealing with challenges that will be familiar to many families. After he disc…

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Episode 69: Status Symbol for Rent 33:59

3M ago33:59

33:59

In today’s episode we’re discussing three of the history's most amazing "status symbol" stories. The story involves the Silk Road, Sulieman the Magnificent, Tulipomania, Carolus Clusius, Chuck Berry, Christopher Columbus, Henry Ford, James Dole, Madame C.J. Walker, and Mahalia Jackson.

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The Hanging Gardens of Babylon 47:00

3M ago47:00

47:00

One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon have long captured imaginations with stories of lush terraces rising high above the desert sands. But did they truly exist—or are they a beautiful myth? Tonight, explore the mystery, history, and enduring allure of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, as you drift into a restf…

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The Rise of Matcha 41:54

3M ago41:54

41:54

As sales of matcha continue to boom, Leyla Kazim traces the story of the powdered green tea from centuries-old Japanese tradition to global health trend phenomenon. We look behind the social media videos and headlines to find out more about the reported matcha shortage, how the matcha supply chain is reacting, and ask what might happen next. Also i…

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Fashion Week 40:44

3M ago40:44

40:44

Fashion Week began as exclusive salon shows in Paris and evolved into a global phenomenon that defines style, trends, and creativity across the world. From the haute couture houses of the early 20th century to the front rows of New York, London, Milan, and Paris, discover how Fashion Week became the heartbeat of the fashion industry. Tonight, explo…

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Follow the Food: The Rise of Food Tourism 42:46

3M ago42:46

42:46

Sheila Dillon investigates the growing number of food tours and trails in the UK as consumers show more and more interest in the provenance of what is on their plate. She heads to Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire – a town that boasts the title of Rural Capital Of Food - and joins a walking tour that spans pork pie producers, stilton sellers, a samo…

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Marathon Mindset, by Erica Rasmussen 1:25:17

3M ago1:25:17

1:25:17

Send us a text Marathon Mindset is Erica’s story of becoming a runner while on a 100 pound weight loss journey. She also talks about her past struggles with an eating disorder, anxiety and depression which started in high school. Through her running journey, Erica learned 5 lessons which she brings to the rest of her life: Grit, Grind, Grace, Growt…

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The Renaissance 56:50

3M ago56:50

56:50

The Renaissance was a period of rebirth, beauty, and bold new ideas. In this sleepy story, we will explore it all...from the art-filled streets of Florence to the scientific breakthroughs that reshaped human understanding. Meet the thinkers, artists, and visionaries who lit up Europe after the darkness of the Middle Ages. Tonight, let the inspiring…