Back to the Brew: A BeansandMore Update

Ep. 23: Critical Process Parameters

Show Notes — Episode 23: Critical Process Parameters This episode of Beans & More slows things down and gives the time that was needed.  We travel to Donaghmoyne, just outside Carrickmacross, to meet Aidan and Kim Carroll, founders of the coffee trailer Bean There, Ate That. From the outset, this is not a quick coffee conversation — it’s a story that deserved to be told fully and without rushing. At the heart of the episode is Kim’s journey: a sudden and aggressive liver illness, months in hospital, long periods of waiting, and ultimately the gift of a life-saving liver transplant. Aidan speaks candidly about living with uncertainty, protecting their young daughter, and the emotional toll of waiting for news that could change everything. It’s an honest, deeply human conversation marked by vulnerability, resilience, and quiet hope. Out of that experience came clarity. Fear began to loosen its grip. Ideas once held back no longer felt too risky. We reflect on seizing the moment and how that shift was echoed around them — Kim’s father stepping into retirement, and her brother taking the courageous leap of opening GRA in Dublin, choosing purpose over security. The coffee trailer itself becomes a symbol of that turning point: a new chapter shaped by gratitude and courage. Alongside the story, we talk coffee in a grounded way — consistency, care, and why they chose Greenbean’s Supremo blend — with lighter moments too: secret-menu favourites, iced hot chocolate for local kids, and the joy of properly meeting neighbours for the first time. A central thread of the episode is community and a powerful encouragement to promote organ donation. Kim’s life continues because another family said yes, and this episode gently invites listeners to have that important conversation with their loved ones. Bean There, Ate That is open • Thu & Fri: 8:00am–3:30pm • Sat: 10:00am–4:00pm (weather updates on socials) Instagram: been_there.ate_that Recently recommended and recognised early on — a strong affirmation for a young, community-rooted venture. From bean to cup. From story to story.

Ep. 22: Your Coffee, Your Way!

What makes the perfect cup of coffee? According to Geison, manager and quality supervisor at Søren & Son, Dean St., Dublin 8 — it’s simple: the perfect coffee is the coffee you like. In this episode, Geison shares his remarkable journey from life as a lawyer in Brazil to becoming one of Dublin’s most passionate advocates for coffee quality. After a life-changing accident and a long recovery, he found purpose behind the counter — bringing precision, warmth, and a touch of soul to every cup. We talk about the art of consistency, the magic of human connection, and why good coffee and good company can transform even an ordinary morning. There’s a flat white made with Sumo Coffee, a few spilled-milk stories, and a soundtrack that swings gently from Bossa Nova to B.B. King. ☕ Honest talk. Heartfelt craft. 🎙️ Your Coffee, Your Way — because perfection tastes personal.

Back to the Brew: A BeansandMore Update

It’s been a while since our last episode — life got busy with An Trucail, my evening coffee cart in Drogheda, and the chaos of a house renovation. But on International Coffee Day, it feels like the perfect moment to return to the mic. In this short update, I share what’s been happening, why the pause, and what’s next for BeansandMore. From Dublin coffee stories to future plans (including a special episode about An Trucail), there’s a lot brewing. Thanks for listening, for sharing, and for being part of this community. Here’s to good coffee, good company, and the joy of conversation.

Ep. 21: Secret Syrup

In this heartwarming episode of beansandmore.coffee podcast, I sit down with Chiara, the spirited manager of Naked Bakes—a vibrant vegan coffee shop nestled in Dublin 8. We chat about her unexpected journey from educator to barista, the joy of early morning coffees, and how a coffee shop can quietly become a place of connection and community. Chiara shares stories that will make you smile—and maybe tear up a little—including a touching moment with a young family and the quiet magic of listening. We talk syrup secrets, playlist favourites (yes, Friday I’m in Love makes an appearance), and how kindness, humor, and a good flat white can make all the difference. This episode is a reminder that cafés aren’t just about coffee—they’re about people. They’re places where stories are shared, worries are lightened, and sometimes, unexpected grace is found in the simplest of exchanges. Chiara also speaks candidly about building a team, keeping spirits high during busy shifts, and the value of creating a space where customers and staff alike feel welcome, heard, and at ease. Whether you’re a barista, a business owner, or simply someone who loves the ritual of a morning brew, there’s something in this conversation for you. Pour yourself something warm, and join us for a chat full of laughter, heart, and caffeine-fuelled inspiration. Do you know a coffee shop that’s making a difference in your community or a barista with an inspiring story to share? I'd love to feature them on an upcoming episode! • Send me your nominations and tell me why you think they deserve to be featured. • Reach out via our socials or contact page to submit your suggestions. Get Involved! As I look to the future, I'd love your help to grow our  Beansandmore.coffee Podcast community: • Like the episode on your favorite podcast platform. • Follow  on social media for behind-the-scenes updates. • Share this episode with friends and fellow coffee lovers to help us spread the word! Follow us on Instagram, X, and TikTok for more behind-the-scenes stories. ☕✨

Ep. 20: AI Assisted Review of The Year

Reflecting on the Journey: A Special Review Episode of The Beansandmore.coffee Podcast. As we step into a brand-new year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the journey of The Beansandmore.coffee Podcast so far. In my latest episode, we’re doing something a little different—a review episode that highlights the most memorable moments, impactful stories, and the incredible people we’ve met along the way. This special episode was brought to life with the help of cutting-edge technology: GoogleLM. How GoogleLM Brought This Episode to Life? GoogleLM, short for “Language Model,” is an advanced AI tool that processes and analyzes text, generating summaries that capture key insights in a precise and engaging way. By feeding it the URLs of past podcast episodes, it sifted through hours of conversation to identify the standout moments, recurring themes, and most compelling stories. This allowed me to craft a polished audio summary - in the form of a Podcast - that not only reflects the heart of The Beansandmore.coffee Podcast but also brings back the emotions and energy of our previous episodes. It’s like a highlights reel, but with the added nuance and charm that only a podcast can deliver. What’s more, GoogleLM’s efficiency freed us up to add our personal touch—combining its insights with reflections, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and our gratitude for all who’ve joined us on this journey. A Big Thank You to Our Guests I couldn’t have done this without the incredible people who have participated in The Beansandmore.coffee Podcast so far. From baristas and coffee shop owners to advocates and listeners, every story shared has added depth and richness to this podcast. Your passion for coffee and community has inspired me and helped shape the vision for the future of The Podcast. To each of you who has been part of this journey—whether as a guest, a supporter, or a listener—thank you. This podcast is about celebrating the people behind the coffee, and it wouldn’t exist without your enthusiasm and contributions. Nominate Your Favourite Coffee Shop or Barista! As I plan for 2025, I'm opening the door for your input. Do you know a coffee shop that’s making a difference in your community or a barista with an inspiring story to share? I'd love to feature them on an upcoming episode! • Send me your nominations and tell me why you think they deserve to be featured. • Reach out via our socials or contact page to submit your suggestions. Get Involved! As I look to the future, I'd love your help to grow our  Beansandmore.coffee Podcast community: • Like the episode on your favorite podcast platform. • Follow  on social media for behind-the-scenes updates. • Share this episode with friends and fellow coffee lovers to help us spread the word! What’s Next? This episode is just the start of an exciting year. With projects like An Trucail, my new mobile coffee experience, and plans for more interviews and advocacy work, 2025 promises to be full of opportunities to celebrate the world of coffee together. So, grab a cup of your favourite brew, tune into the review episode, and join me in toasting the year that’s been—and the one to come. Thank you for being part of the journey so far. Here’s to great coffee, great conversations, and an even greater year ahead.