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PODCAST

Specialty Matcha Podcast

Sanko Matcha Products

The Specialty Matcha Podcast is hosted by Ryan Ahn and Zongjun Li, cofounders of Sanko Matcha Products. We discuss the growth in popularity of matcha, innovation, and matcha science. We also interview thought leaders, tea merchants, and tea educators to discuss everything from sourcing, processing, blending, milling, storytelling, health claims, and much more. Sanko Matcha Products is a startup dedicated to using functional design to create contemporary matcha gear and the use of new technology to

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All Episodes

00:47:57

Matcha + Milk Debate

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/03/06

This conversation explores the current debate about consumers buying scarce matcha powder and mixing it with milk. On one side of the spectrum "let consumers do what they want" and on the other side "consumers are destroying the subtly and nuance that makes high quality matcha incredibly unique". The hosts discuss the ongoing matcha shortage, the implications of the 'ceremonial grade' label, and the evolving landscape of matcha culture as it becomes more mainstream

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00:33:00

Mini Update & The Science of Matcha Whisking Repost

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/02/28

This conversation delves into the intricate science of matcha whisking, exploring its cultural significance, preparation methods, and the sensory experience it offers. Hosts Ryan and Zongjun discuss the unique properties of matcha as a suspension, the challenges of achieving the perfect foam, and the evolution of matcha consumption from traditional ceremonies to modern-day practices. They also touch on the subjective nature of quality in matcha and the need for innovation in its preparation.

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00:47:31

Authenticity Trap, Opinion

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/02/20

In this episode, Ryan Ahn and Zongjun (Sam) Li explore the concept of authenticity, particularly in the context of matcha and tea culture. They discuss how the term 'authenticity' can be problematic, often used as a weapon to police others' practices, and how it creates a fear of judgment that stifles innovation. The conversation delves into the contradictions between tradition and modernity, the implications of cultural appropriation, and the double standards faced by different cultural

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00:51:01

Interview with Jacque and Matcha, Jacque

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/02/13

On this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, hosts Ryan and Zongjun talk to Jacque from Jacque and Matcha based in Manila, the Philippines. We discuss pop ups, the rise of specialty matcha, Filipino matcha preferences and the launch of her new brand.

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00:38:46

Battles to be Won

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/02/06

Episode Summary:Ryan Ahn and Zongjun (Sam) Li explore how specialty matcha can go mainstream, drawing lessons from specialty coffee. They discuss the role of major brands, the need for consumer education, quality standards, and innovative preparation methods to grow the global matcha community.

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00:54:33

What is Authentic Matcha? Opinion

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/01/30

Modern advancements in farming, breeding, and production reveal that matcha is far from being a relic of the past—it is a dynamic and evolving tradition. Although the matcha enjoyed today differs from what earlier generations experienced, it maintains a lineage of ongoing development. These changes arise from the interplay of industry, market forces, and culture, creating a vibrant and interconnected community that continually influences and redefines itself.This adaptability is what defines

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00:58:12

Are Poetic Matcha Names Harmful?

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/01/23

In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan Ahn and Zongjun (Sam) Li delve into the complexities and confusions surrounding poetic matcha names. They discuss how these names can mislead consumers, the cultural context of matcha consumption, and the need for transparency in the industry. The conversation highlights the potential harm to consumers and farmers alike, as well as the importance of evolving the naming conventions to better serve a modern audience. The hosts advocate for a shift

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00:38:57

Interview with Tea for Me Please, Nicole

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/01/16

In this conversation, Ryan and Nicole from Tea for Me Please discuss the evolution of matcha in the US, the impact of influencer culture on tea, and the importance of building relationships within the tea community. They explore the challenges of maintaining consumer interest in tea, the role of online communities, and the future trends in the matcha landscape, including the growing demand for transparency and quality in matcha products.https://www.teaformeplease.com/

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00:51:42

Interview with Tea Nursery, Pau

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/01/09

In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan and Zongjun welcome Pau from Tea Nursery to discuss his journey as a tea farmer in Wazuka, the intricacies of tea farming, and the importance of cultivars. Paul shares insights from his experiences in Japan, detailing the seasonal challenges of tea farming and the significance of cultivar development. The conversation also touches on the role of geography in tea cultivation and the complexities of cultivar registration system in Japan. The

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00:50:05

Kissatens, Blue Bottle, and Specialty Matcha

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2025/01/02

In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan and Zongjun explore their recent experiences in Tokyo, focusing on the cultural significance of kissaten coffee shops and their influence on the specialty coffee movement, in particular at Blue Bottle. They discuss the parallels between coffee and matcha, emphasizing the importance of hospitality, intentionality, and consumer experience. The conversation highlights lessons that the matcha industry can learn from the evolution of specialty coffee,

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00:41:50

Reflections on Tencha Sourcing Trip

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/12/19

In this episode, Ryan and Zongjun (Sam) Li share their experiences and insights from their recent trip to Uji, Izumo City, and Yame. They discuss the unique practices of tea farmers, the intricacies of tea processing, and the differences between artisanal and industrial matcha production. The conversation also touches on the impact of matcha's growing popularity, the challenges faced by small farmers, and the future of matcha sourcing and innovation.

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00:55:45

Interview with Matcha Moments, Monique

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/12/13

Ryan and Zongjun welcome Monique from Matcha Moments. Monique shares insights into the growing matcha culture in the Philippines, her Urasenke practice, educating consumers about high-quality matcha, and the importance of local cafes in promoting specialty matcha.Instagram: @matchamoments.ph

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01:00:37

Notes at Origin: Yame vs Uji Matcha

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/12/05

Ryan and Zongjun recorded this episode "in the field" during their tencha sourcing trip in Japan. In this episode they discuss differences between Uji and Yame as tea production areas. Some topics discussed are: honzu shading, ishi usu vs ball milling, hika aroma ("fire" or "roasted" aroma), hoshino yame matcha, and technology in tencha processing. If you're interested in the Fukuoka tea tourism map, please reach out to us directly on Instagram or on our website.

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00:48:34

Notes at Origin: Izumo City and Yame

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/11/28

Ryan and Zongjun recorded this podcast episode during their sourcing trip to Japan and share there notes and experiences.

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00:41:42

Notes at Origin: Uji 2024

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/11/21

In this episode, cohosts Ryan and Zongjun record directly in Uji after visiting several family owned and operated multi-generational tea farms. We share our notes and reactions from everything we learned and experienced. Topics range from the distinction between Uji Matcha vs Matcha from Uji, tencha fertilization practices, and industry power dynamics.

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00:47:07

Matcha Retail in Uji and Kyoto

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/11/14

Ryan and Zongjun recorded this episode in Japan and shared their experiences buying matcha retail in Kyoto and Uji. They dive into product positioning, how information is communicated to consumers, and compare the flavor profile of the cheapest and most expensive matcha they could find.

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00:49:16

Status Quo of Fresh Ground Matcha

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/11/07

In this conversation, Ryan and Sam explore the evolving landscape of fresh-milled matcha, discussing its rise in popularity, the technology behind its milling, and the various consumer perspectives on its quality and flavor. They delve into critiques of fresh-milled matcha, the challenges of maintaining quality, and the future of specialty matcha as an inclusive industry that embraces innovation while respecting tradition.

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00:52:53

*Breaking News: Marukyu Koyamaen's Announcement

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/10/31

Special thanks to future guest on the Specialty Matcha Podcast Pau from Tea Nursery, and former guests Ian from Yunomi and Cole from My Matcha Addiction.Marukyu Koyamaen's Announcement: https://www.marukyu-koyamaen.co.jp/information/apology-and-notice-regarding-to-quantity-limit-restriction-on-matcha-products-and-the-current-situation/ https://www.teanursery.com/ https://yunomi.life/ https://mymatchaaddiction.com/

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00:39:48

Matcha Science with Dr. Yizhou Ma

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/10/24

Ryan and Zongjun talk to friend and former colleague Dr. Yizhou Ma, assistant professor of food process engineering at Wageningen University in the Netherlands. In this episode they discuss matcha from a food science perspective including matcha milling, particle analysis, particle size distributions, morphology, suspensions, and foam formation. Check out Yizhou's podcast Hood in the Hood: https://open.spotify.com/show/04rulokx6auswo5gnhOqu9

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00:43:46

Interview with Chaseki, Tom

Specialty Matcha Podcast ·

2024/10/17

In this episode of the Specialty Matcha Podcast, Ryan and Sam interview Tom Greese, co-founder of Chaseki, a matcha-focused business in Thailand. Tom shares his journey from the hospitality industry to launching Chaseki, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the evolution of the matcha market in Thailand. The conversation delves into the importance of educating consumers about matcha cultivars, the growing specialty coffee scene's relationship with matcha, and future plans for

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90 results

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