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# #PodSaveChocolate Archive – Episodes 101-200
- URL: https://thechocolatelife.com/podsavechocolate-archive-episodes-101-200/
- Published: 2026-05-12T18:44:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-09-07T17:42:50.000Z
- Description: News, views, and conversations on topics in cocoa and chocolate streamed live to YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook. #PodSaveChocolate!
- Author: The Archivist
- Tags: PodSaveChocolate

## **Episodes 101 - 200**

### *February 18th 2025 – May 12th, 2026*

[May News & AMA | #PSC 200OVERVIEW: Episode 200 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate and cocoa news fit to eat, as well as the monthly live AMA (Ask Me Anything about chocolate or cocoa) for May 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-466.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-200-May-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/may-news-ama-psc-200/)

Ep 200 ****|** Tue May 12th

[Seed Oils Bad! Cocoa Butter is a Seed Oil. Does That Make Cocoa Butter a Bad Fat? | #PSC 199Episode 199 of #PodSaveChocolate explores the recent demonization of seed oils, examining what differentiates various types of fats/oils, why people believe seed oils are harmful, and what distinguishes cocoa butter from other seed oils.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-455.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-199-SeedOils---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/seed-oils-bad-cocoa-butter-is-a-seed-oil-does-that-make-cocoa-butter-a-bad-fat-psc-199/)

Ep 199 ****|** Fri May 1st

### **April**

[What I Learned Judging S5 of the Craft Chocolat Challenge | #PSC 198Episode 198 of #PodSaveChocolate is an exploration of my judging process for the 2026 (Season 5) Craft Chocolat Challenge. I’ve judged many competitions, and each one is an opportunity to learn.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-454.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-198-CCC-Judging---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/what-i-learned-judging-s5-of-the-craft-chocolat-challenge-psc-198/)

Ep 198 ****|** Fri Apr 24th

[Are these Twelve “The Only Chocolate Bars Worth Buying?” | #PSC 197Episode 197 of #PodSaveChocolate explores a very recent listicle post (April 17th, 2026) on the NY Times in which they claim there are only TWELVE bars under $25 worth purchasing. Which twelve bars are they, and how did the editor arrive at this startling conclusion?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-453.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-197-NYT-OnlyBars---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/are-these-twelve-the-only-chocolate-bars-worth-buying-psc-197/)

Ep 197 ****|** Tue Apr 21st

[ATLAS production management software for chocolate makers | #PSC 196Episode 196 features an interview and demo with the developer of ATLAS production management software for chocolate makers by a chocolate maker.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-452.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-196-Atlas-SJohnson---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/atlas-production-management-software-for-chocolate-makers-psc-196/)

Ep 196 ****|** Fri Apr 17th

[Updated: 2026 Craft Chocolat Challenge LIVE Awards Show | #PSC 195Episode 195 of #PodSaveChocolate is dedicated to presenting the winners of the 2026 Craft Chocolat Challenge. Joining me will be Dustin Cornett, the founder of the challenge, and Leila Carvajal of Cocoa Supply, the sponsor of the Innovation Awards.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-451.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-195-2026-CCC---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/2026-craft-chocolat-challenge-live-awards-show-psc-195/)

Ep 195 ****|** Tue Apr 14th

[20th Anniversary Interview with Shawn Askinosie | #PSC 194Episode 194 of #PodSaveChocolate features an interview with Shawn Askinosie, founder of Askinosie Chocolate, about the lessons learned and roads not taken over the past two decades of working in the worlds of craft/bean-to-bar/specialty chocolate and cocoa. \[updated to add two books\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-450.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-194-AskinosieAnniversary---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/20th-anniversary-interview-with-shawn-askinosie-psc-194/)

Ep 194 ****|** Fri Apr 10th

[Updated: April News & AMA | #PSC 193OVERVIEW: Episode 193 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate and cocoa news fit to eat, as well as the monthly live AMA (Ask Me Anything about chocolate or cocoa) for April 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-449.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-193-April-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/april-news-ama-psc-193/)

Ep 193 ****|** Tue Apr 7th

### **March**

[Updated: The UKFRC & UKCC: EUDR 2.0 Lite? | #PSC 192Episode 192 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at the recent formation of the UK Cocoa Coalition, which hopes to influence the implementation of the UK Forest Risk Commodities regime. OR, is it Brexit-induced EUDR FOMO?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-448.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-192-UKFRC-UKCC---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-ukfrc-ukcc-eudr-2-0-lite-brexit-fomo-psc-192/)

Ep 192 ****|** Tue Mar 31st

[The True Origins of Criollo | #PSC 191Episode 191 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a deep dive into the history of Criollo cacao varieties, separating myth and conventional wisdom from facts revealed via recent archaeogenomic research and historical sources.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-430.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-191-TrueHistoryCriollo---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-true-origins-of-criollo-psc-191/)

Ep 191 ****|** Tue Mar 24th

[“When Virtue Tastes Like Cocoa” | #PSC 190Episode 190 of #PodSaveChocolate is an interview with Philippe Juglar, the President of AVPA (the organizer of the Chocolate Processed at Origin competition), and Carolina Faure of Paris-based importer/distributor La Cooperativa.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-429.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-190-AVPA-Virtue---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/when-virtue-tastes-like-cocoa-psc-190/)

Ep 190 ****|** Fr Mar 20th

[Pono Cocoa, Again? | #PSC 189OVERVIEW: Episode 189 of #PodSaveChocolate takes another look at Pono Cocoa: a deep-ish dive into what has (and hasn’t) changed since the last time I took a look in 2022\. (TL;DR – there has been \*some\* movement, but not the necessary improvement, in my opinion.) \[Updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-428.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-189-PonoCocoa-Redux---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pono-cocoa-again-psc-189/)

Ep 189 ****|** Tue Mar 17th

[Prepping to Beat Summer’s Heat | #PSC 188OVERVIEW: Episode 188 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at getting ready for warm weather shipping. I also present a quick (and relatively inexpensive) hack I just learned about to keep chocolates from melting on hot summer market days. Is it too hot for chocolate? Tune in and find out.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-427.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-188-Summer-Prep---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/prepping-to-beat-summers-heat-psc-188/)

Ep 188 ****|** Fri Mar 13th

[2026 Craft Chocolat Challenge Season 5 Preview | #PSC 187OVERVIEW: Episode 187 of #PodSaveChocolate is a preview of the 2026 Craft Chocolat Challenge (Season 5) with the Challenge’s founder, Dustin Cornett. Discover why the Challenge was created, who it’s for, how it’s judged, and more.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-426.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-187-CCC-S5---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/2026-craft-chocolat-challenge-season-5-preview-psc-187/)

Ep 187 ****|** Tue Mar 10th

[Updated: March News & AMA | #PSC 186OVERVIEW: Episode 186 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate and cocoa news fit to eat, as well as the monthly live AMA (Ask Me Anything about chocolate or cocoa) for March 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-425.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-186-March-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/march-news-ama-psc-186/)

Ep 186 ****|** Fri Mar 6th

[Updated: Salon du Chocolat NYC 2026 Preview | #PSC 185OVERVIEW: Episode 185 is a preview of the upcoming Salon du Chocolat NYC. This preview episode will include organizers, exhibitors, and contributors to the Culinary Theater, Taste & Learn, and Kids Zone areas of the Salon.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-424.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-185-SdCNYC26-Preview---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/salon-du-chocolat-nyc-2026-preview-psc-185/)

Ep 185 ****|** Tue Mar 3rd

### **February**

[Updated: Dubiously Dubai | #PSC 184OVERVIEW: Episode 184 features a tasting of three examples of so-called “Dubai” Chocolate bars I found at the checkout counter at a local C-Store here in north-central Arizona. Do these signal the coming demise of the “Dubai”-ish craze? \[Updated on Mar 14 with a phyllo clarification.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-423.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-184-Dubiously-Dubai---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/dubiously-dubai-psc-184/)

Ep 184 ****|** Fri Feb 27th

[The Continuing Cases Against Big Chocolate | #PSC 183OVERVIEW: Episode 183 features an interview with Terry Collingsworth of International Rights Advocates, updating the (legal) cases against Big Chocolate in the US. Along the way, we’ll take a look at their history, too. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-422.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-183-IRAdvocates---Featured1920x1080-1-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-continuing-cases-against-big-chocolate-psc-183/)

Ep 183 ****|** Tue Feb 24th

[Home Chocolat’s Chocolatier Pro Kickstarter | #PSC 182OVERVIEW: Episode 182 takes a look at the very recent Kickstarter launch for the Chocolatier Pro chocolate tempering appliance from Home Chocolat.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-400.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-182-ChocolatierProKickstarter---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/home-chocolats-chocolatier-pro-kickstarter-psc-182/)

Ep 182 ****|** Fri Feb 20th

[Preparing For Annual Reports Season | #PSC 181OVERVIEW: Episode 181 features a preview of two annual reports that should be released in the next 90 days – The 7th edition of The Chocolate Scorecard and Tony’s Chocolonely’s Annual “Fair” (emphasis added) Report. What should we expect based on last year’s findings? \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-399.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-181-ReportSeason---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/preparing-for-annual-reports-season-psc-181/)

Ep 181 ****|** Tue Feb 17th

[February 2026 News & AMA | #PSC 180OVERVIEW: Episode 180 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate and cocoa news fit to eat, as well as the monthly live AMA (Ask Me Anything about chocolate or cocoa) for February 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-398.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-180-Feb-NewsAMAv2---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/february-2026-news-ama-psc-180/)

Ep 180 ****|** Fri Feb 13th

[Is Maïa Ceremonial Cacao a Scam? | #PSC 179Episode 179 of PodSaveChocolate examines the health claims made about and for Maïa’s “#Ceremonial Cacao.” Are they believable? Should you trust them? Why – or why not?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-397.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-179-BuyMaia---Featured1920x1080-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/buymaia-ceremonial-cacao-panacea-or-scam-psc-179/)

Ep 179 ****|** Tue Feb 10th

[Tasting Chocolate: Orinoco Chocolate Co. | #PSC 178Episode 178 features a tasting of four bars – and one new product in a new product line – from Prescott, AZ-based maker Orinoco Chocolate Co. Disclaimer: Orinoco’s factory is just down the road from me, and they are one of the reasons I relocated to Prescott.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-395.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-178-OrinocoTasting---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/tasting-chocolate-orinoco-chocolate-co-psc-178/)

Ep 178 ****|** Fri Feb 6th

### **January**

[UPDATED: Viral Chocolate Trends & How to Make More Money With Them | #PSC 177Episode 177 of #PodSaveChocolate looks at ten #trendy chocolate #trends #trending and what chocolate makers and confectioners can do to grow their businesses by riding – smartly – on their coattails.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-394.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-177-TenTrendyTrendsTrending---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/viral-chocolate-trends-how-to-make-money-with-them-psc-177/)

[Updated: Interview with Jorge Redmond, Chocolates El Rey (VZ) | #PSC 176Episode 176 of PodSaveChocolate was to feature an interview with Jorge Redmond of Chocolates El Rey.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-393.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-176-El-Rey---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-with-jorge-redmond-chocolates-el-rey-vz-psc-176/)

This episode was not completed due to technical difficulties. I am still trying to reschedule it.

[Updated: January 2026 News & AMA | #PSC 175Episode 175 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for January 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-390.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-175-Nov-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/january-2026-news-ama-psc-175/)

Ep 175 ****|** Tue Jan 13th

[2026 Craft Chocolat Challenge | #PSC 174Episode 174 of PodSaveChocolate takes a look at the upcoming Craft Chocolat Challenge – Season 5.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-392.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-174-CCC-s5---Featured1920x1080-1-3.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/2026-craft-chocolat-challenge-psc-174/)

Ep 174 | Fri Jan 9th

[Why Agriculture? Was it Fermentation? Beer?! | #PSC 173Episode 173 of PodSaveChocolate takes a look at recent research into what might have motivated hunter-gatherer societies to become agrarian. Could it have been beer? And what does that mean for the use and domestication of cacao?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-367.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-173-AgBeer---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/why-agriculture-fermentation-beer-psc-173/)

Ep 173 ****|** Tue Jan 6th

[Updated: The Impact of Fermentation Research & Quality | #PSC 172Episode 172 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at research on cocoa fermentation published in 2025 (with some context from 2021). Is it useful? Usable?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-366.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-172-FermentationUpdates---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-impact-of-fermentation-research-quality-psc-172/)

Ep 172 ****|** Fri Jan 2nd

## **»» 2025 Episodes ««**

### **December**

[2026: A Look Ahead at the Year in Chocolate & Cocoa | #PSC 171Updated: Episode 171 of #PodSaveChocolate is a look forward at the stories and trends that will shape the Year in Chocolate, 2026.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-365.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-171-LookAhead2026---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/2026-a-look-ahead-at-the-year-in-chocolate-cocoa-psc-171/)

Ep 171 ****|** Tue Dec 30th

[2025: A Look Back at the Year in Chocolate & Cocoa | #PSC 170 \[updated\]Episode 170 of #PodSaveChocolate is a look back at the stories that shaped the Year in Chocolate, 2025\. In Episode 171, I will look ahead to 2026\. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-364.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-170-LookingBack2025---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/2025-a-look-back-at-the-year-in-chocolate-cocoa-psc-170/)

Ep 170 ****|** Fri Dec 26th

[Exploring Chocolate Gifting Options | #PSC 169Episode 169 of #PodSaveChocolate is a follow-up to the episode on Advent Calendars. I asked several search engines what the most popular holiday chocolate gifting options were. What can we learn from these lists? \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-363.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-169-HolidayGifting---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/exploring-chocolate-gifting-options-psc-169/)

Ep 169 ****|** Tue Dec 23rd

[Preview: Red Rock Region Chocolate & Fine Foods Fest | #PSC 168Episode 168 of #PodSaveChocolate is a preview of the inaugural Red Rock Region Chocolate Fine Foods Festival with founder Jake Potter. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-362.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-168-RedRock-CFFF---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/preview-red-rock-region-chocolate-fine-foods-fest-psc-168/)

Ep 168 ****|** Fri Dec 19th

[What’s Behind Door #24? | #PSC 167Episode 167 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at chocolate-themed Advent calendars; not a buying guide and not a critical tasting guide; just a look at what was/is on offer and what to think about them and the way they are described. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-361.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-167-Advent-Calendars---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/whats-behind-door-24-psc-167/)

Ep 167 ****|** Tue Dec 16th

[AVPA 2025 Roundup | #PSC 166Episode 166 of #PodSaveChocolate features an interview with Philippe Juglar, the president of AVPA – the Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products, located in France.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-360.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-166-AVPA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/avpa-2025-roundup-psc-166/)

Ep 166****|** Fri Dec 5th

[December 2025 News & AMA | #PSC 165Episode 165 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for December 2025.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-369.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-162-Nov-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/december-2025-news-ama-psc-ep-165/)

Ep 165 ****|** Tue Dec 2nd

### **November**

[2025 Midwest Craft Chocolate Festival Roundup | #PSC 164Episode 164 of #PodSaveChocolate features a roundup of the Midwest Craft Chocolate Festival, including a sampling of chocolates I picked up there – many of which I haven’t tasted (yet).![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-358.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-164-MwCCF2025---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/2025-midwest-craft-chocolate-festival-roundup-psc-164/)

Ep 164 ****|** Fri Nov 28th

[The Future of Cocoa is ... Chocolate | #PSC 163Episode 163 of #PodSaveChocolate will present ideas to address the past, present, and future of cocoa, suggesting ways to navigate our way out of the current crisis. To many, chocolate is not the obvious starting point, but by the end of the episode, my hope is that you will. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-357.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-163-Future---Featured1920x1080-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/the-future-of-cocoa-is-chocolate-psc-163/)

Ep 163 ****|** Tue Nov 18th

[November 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 162Episode 162 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for November 2025\. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-356.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-162-Nov-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/november-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-162/)

Ep 162 ****|** Fri Nov 14th

[Why the EPIC FAILURE of Cocoa Sustainability Initiatives? | #PSC 161In episode 161 of #PodSaveChocolate, I will take a look at why cocoa sustainability initiatives have failed and why the failures were inevitable.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-355.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-161-EpicFailure---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/why-the-epic-failure-of-cocoa-sustainability-initiatives-psc-161/)

Ep 161 ****|** Tue Nov 11th

[ARS 1000: The Future of Cocoa? | #PSC 160Episode 160 of #PodSaveChocolate casts a critical look at ARS 1000, a continent-wide framework for sustainable cocoa. What is its future? Will the idea spread to other cocoa-producing regions? \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-354.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-160-ARS1000---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/ars-1000-the-future-of-cocoa-psc-160/)

Ep 160 ****|** Fri Nov 7th

### **October**

[Hallowe’en & Trick-or-Treats: A History | #PSC 159This episode of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at the history of Hallowe’en from its pagan roots through the history of trick-or-treating to today. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-368.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-159-Halloween---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/halloween-trick-or-treats-a-history-psc-159/)

Ep 159 ****|** Fri October 31st

[The Early Education of a Chocolate Critic | #PSC 158After questions about lead/cadmium and white chocolate, one of the most common questions I get asked during live AMAs is, “How did you become a chocolate critic?” Episode 158 takes a deep-ish autobiographical dive to get to the bottom of that query.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-315.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-158-EarlyEd---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-early-education-of-a-chocolate-critic-psc-158/)

Ep 158 ****|** Tue October 28th

[Oops! They’re At It Again: CR’s Love Affair With Lead | #PSC 157With apologies to Britney Spears, this episode takes a look at Consumer Reports’ recent reporting on heavy metals in protein powders and protein shakes, comparing it with past reporting on baby foods and chocolate products. \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-314.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-157-CR-Protein---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/oops-theyre-at-it-again-crs-love-affair-with-lead-psc-157/)

Ep 157 ****|** Fri October 24th

[Interview &Tasting: Tandy Peterson, Embers Chocolate | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 156Interview/Tasting episodes are my favorite - so note the later start time, because you won’t want to miss one! (If you’d like to be featured in a Q4 2025 tasting/interview episode, send me an email, DM, or comment below or on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram.)![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-313.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-156-EmbersChocolate---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-tasting-tandy-peterson-embers-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-156/)

Ep 156 ****|** Tue October 21st

[The Changing Landscape of Cocoa Sourcing: Part 4 | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 155#PodSaveChocolate Episode 155 is the concluding part of this series, which examines challenges specialty chocolate makers face when assessing their bean suppliers’ claims for transparency, sustainability, corporate ownership, etc. \[Updated with summaries before the episode went live and after.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-312.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-155-ChangingLandscape---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-changing-landscape-of-cocoa-sourcing-part-4-podsavechocolate-ep-155/)

Ep 155 ****|** Fri October 17th

[Midwest Craft Chocolate Festival 2025 PREVIEW | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 154#PodSaveChocolate Episode 154 is a preview of the upcoming 2025 Midwest Craft Chocolate Festival ... in Rushville, Indiana. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-311.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-154-MWCCF---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/midwest-craft-chocolate-festival-2025-preview-podsavechocolate-ep-154/)

Ep 154 ****|** Tue October 14th

[Ten Top Problems Facing Chocolate Today | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 153#PodSaveChocolate Episode 153 takes a look at ten top problems facing chocolate and cocoa that cocoa producers, chocolate makers, confectioners, and chocolate lovers face today. \[Updated pre-episode for grammar and sense.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-310.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-153-TopTenProblems---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/ten-top-problems-facing-chocolate-today-podsavechocolate-ep-153/)

Ep 153 ****|** Fri October 10th

[Debunking Chocolate Conspiracy Theories | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 152#PodSaveChocolate Episode 152 takes a look at seven (plus one) Conspiracy Theories about chocolate that can be found making the rounds on social media channels – especially Reddit. \[ Updated post-episode \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-309.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-152-Conspiracies---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-dark-side-chocolate-conspiracy-theories-podsavechocolate-ep-152/)

Ep 152 ****|** Tue October 7th

[October 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 151Episode 151 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for October 2025.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-274.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-151-Oct-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/october-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-151/)

Ep 151 ****|** Fri October 3rd

### **September**

[Are YOU Marketing Your Chocolate Wrong? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 150#PodSaveChocolate Episode 150 is inspired by video shorts featuring the UK adman extraordinaire Rory Sutherland. He suggests companies are thinking about their marketing claims backward, among other misunderstandings.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-272.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-150-MarketingWrong---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/are-you-marketing-your-chocolate-wrong-podsavechocolate-ep-150/)

Ep 150 ****|** Tues September 30th

[An Ideal Chocolate Judging Rubric? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 149Episode 149 of #PodSaveChocolate revisits the hows and whys of judging systems, for your own enjoyment and professionally, and poses the question, “Is there an ideal rubric?” \[ Updated Sep 28 \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-271.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-149-IdealJudgingRubric---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/an-ideal-chocolate-judging-rubric-podsavechocolate-ep-149/)

Ep 149 ****|** Friday September 26th

[Imagining the Next Dubai Chocolate? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 148Episode 148 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at the phenomenon of “Dubai” chocolate, taking a detour into imagining some alternatives with the help of an LLM.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-264.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-148-DubaiNew---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/imagining-the-next-dubai-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-148/)

Ep 148 ****|** Friday September 19th

[September 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 147Episode 147 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for September 2025.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-263.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-147-Sept-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/september-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-147/)

Ep 147 ****|** Friday September 12th

### **August**

[Ending the Cocoa Crisis? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 146Episode 146 of #PodSaveChocolate explores industry responses to the ongoing cocoa crisis. Do any address root causes? (Spoiler Alert: No.)![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-262.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-146-Cocoa-in-Crisis---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/ending-the-cocoa-crisis-podsavechocolate-ep-146/)

Ep 146 ****|** Friday August 29th

[Callebaut in Crisis: The End of a Dynasty? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 145Episode 145 of #PodSaveChocolate explores the exodus of top talent at Barry Callebaut and the cratering of the company’s stock price as this industry behemoth struggles. Question: Is the “new” BC a digital dinosaur in the age of mammals? \[ Updated on Aug 27 \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-261.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-145-BC-in-Crisis---Featured1920x1080-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/callebaut-in-crisis-the-end-of-a-dynasty-podsavechocolate-ep-145/)

Ep 145 ****|** Tuesday August 26th

[Making the Perfect Chocolate? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 144Episode 144 of #PodSaveChocolate responds to a clickbait article published in Popular Science. \[Spoiler Alert: they don’t reveal the secret to making perfect chocolate but they do refer to a very interesting article on fermentation published in Nature Microbiology.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-260.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-144-Perfect-Chocolate---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/making-the-perfect-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-144/)

Ep 144 ****|** Friday August 22nd

[Critiquing Chocolate Judging | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 143Episode 143 of #PodSaveChocolate is a continuation of the discussion about chocolate judging from Episode 142\. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-259.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-143-Critiquing-Judging---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/critiquing-chocolate-judging-podsavechocolate-ep-143/)

Ep 143 ****|** Tuesday August 19th

[Judging Innovation in Cocoa | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 142Episode 142 of #PodSaveChocolate features an exploration of judging innovation in cocoa, from the perspective of a judge (me) of the 2025 Ecuadorian Cacao Innovation Award, with a BONUS tasting!![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-241.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-142-Judging-Innovation---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/judging-innovation-in-cocoa-podsavechocolate-ep-142/)

Ep 142 ****|** Friday August 15th

[August 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 141Episode 141 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for August 2025\. \[Updated with Futures Prices link\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-240.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-141-August-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/august-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-141/)

Ep 141 ****|** Tuesday August 12th

[ICI Says the Obvious: Disappoints Again | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 140Episode 140 takes a look at a recent report issued by the ICI - “Tackling child labour in cocoa: Results of ICI’s Member Reporting Exercise 2024.” What it says, and why this reporter is unconvinced.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-239.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-140-ICI-Report---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/ici-says-the-obvious-disappoints-again-podsavechocolate-ep-140/)

Ep 140 ****|** Friday August 8th

[Mario Kart Economics & The Chocolate Value Chain | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 139Episode 139 takes a look at “Mario Kart Economics,” if and how they can be applied to the chocolate value chain, and what they can mean for cocoa farmers and chocolate fans of all flavors.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-238.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-139-MarioKartEcon---Featured1920x1080-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/mario-kart-economics-the-chocolate-value-chain-podsavechocolate-ep-139/)

Ep 139 ****|** Tuesday August 5th

[Tasting Random Chocolates (& Stuff) | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 138Episode 138 answers the question: “Is the middle of Summer in the high desert of Arizona too hot for chocolate?” Given what you know about me, the answer will not surprise you, but my selections just might. \[Updated with products tasted ⋯ watch the episode for details.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-237.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-138-RandomTasting---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/tasting-random-chocolates-and-stuff-podsavechocolate-ep-138/)

Ep 138 ****|** Friday August 1st

### **July**

[EUDR Update: Legislator’s Remorse? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 137Episode 137 explores some implications of a recent vote by the EU Parliament to amend the EUDR, as well as calls to delay (again) it coming into force. \[Updated to include links to other episodes dedicated to EUDR coverage.\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-236.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-137-EUDR-Desolation---Featured1920x1080-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/eudr-update-legislators-remorse-podsavechocolate-ep-137/)

Ep 137 ****|** Friday July 25th

[Just Say NO to Tariffs | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 136Episode 136 is a presentation and discussion of a Trump Administration olive branch regarding tariffs on cocoa and coffee and what you can do to lobby against them. Time is of the essence - so tune in and activate!![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-235.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-136-Protest-Tariffs---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/just-say-no-to-tariffs-podsavechocolate-ep-136/)

Ep 136 ****|** Tuesday July 22nd 

[Playing “The Taste Game” | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 135Episode 135 of PodSaveChocolate explains how a simple exercise in the form of a card game can turbocharge your creative ideation game when it comes to developing recipes for chocolate, confections, pastry, and more.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-234.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-135-TasteGame---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/playing-the-taste-game-podsavechocolate-ep-135/)

Ep 137 ****|** Friday July 18th

[15 Years of the Good Food Awards | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 134Episode 134 of PodSaveChocolate explores the 15-year history of the Good Food Awards in the Chocolate and Confections categories. Insights into the results, as well as into what it took to compile and clean the data. (TL;DR – extracting and cleaning the data was NOT pretty.)![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-233.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-134-GFA2025---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/15-years-of-the-good-food-awards-podsavechocolate-ep-134/)

Ep 137 ****|** Tuesday July 15th

[What IS The Chocolate Life? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 133Episode 133 is a road trip through my history, a journey from where I started to where I am now ⋯ and, along the way, I will chat about what drives me in everything I do (not just chocolate).![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-198.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-133-WhatIsTCL---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/what-is-the-chocolate-life-podsavechocolate-ep-133/)

Ep 133 ****|** Friday July 11th

🗒️

**This episode of Pod Save Chocolate is a deep dive into the origins, philosophy, and personal journey behind “The Chocolate Life,” as told by its creator.*  
  
**The Chocolate Life is about more than chocolate—it’s about finding your purpose, having fun, sharing what you love, and inspiring others to do the same. The episode is a blend of memoir, philosophy, and a call to action, encouraging everyone to seek out and embrace their own “chocolate life”—whatever form it may take.*  
**— AI-generated summary*

[Can an LLM Teach You How to Make Chocolate? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 132Episode 132 of #PodSaveChocolate was inspired by a post in the r/chocolate sub on Reddit. Let’s take a look at what the OP (referring to ChatGPT “advice”) posted, how the community responds, and then ask other LLMs and ChatGPT to chime in and explore what LLMs can teach us about making chocolate.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-197.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-132-ReddtLLM---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/can-an-llm-teach-you-how-to-make-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-132/)

Ep 132 ****|** Tuesday July 8th

[Manufactured Sweetness: World Chocolate Day | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 131Episode 131 of #PodSaveChocolate features a deep-ish dive into the history of World Chocolate Day (celebrated on July 7th, this coming Monday in 2025) and how it has been, and will be, observed this year in the US and elsewhere.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-196.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-131-WorldChocoDay---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/manufactured-sweetness-world-chocolate-day-podsavechocolate-ep-131/)

Ep 131 ****|** Friday July 4th

[July 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 130Episode 130 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for June/July 2025\. (There was no June News/AMA episode.) \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-195.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-130-JuneJuly-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/july-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-130/)

Ep 130 ****|** Tuesday July 1st

### **June**

[Deep Dive: International Chocolate Awards 2024 World Final | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 129Episode 129 takes a deep dive look at the Winners in the 2024 World Final round of the International Chocolate Awards. Which company was the biggest winner? What can we learn about the distribution of winning entries? And more. \[Updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-194.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-126-Gemini-AI-SY1280x720-9.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/deep-dive-international-chocolate-awards-2024-world-final-podsavechocolate-ep-129/)

Ep 129 ****|** Friday June 27th

[A #Chowhound Listicle Review | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 128Episode 128 is an exploration of a Chowhound listicle titled, “The Absolute Best Chocolate Shops In Every State.” Are the 50 shops listed The Absolute Best?![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-193.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-126-Gemini-AI-SY1280x720-8.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/a-chowhound-listicle-review-podsavechocolate-ep-128/)

Ep 128 ****|** Tuesday June 24th

[What Makes a Good Chocolate “Good?” | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 127Episode 127 of #PodSaveChocolate was inspired by the similarly named and themed episode (125) on the Craft Chocolate TV YouTube Channel, hosted by Dylan Butterbaugh of Manoa Chocolate (Hawaii). \[updated with resources\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-174.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-126-Gemini-AI-SY1280x720-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/what-make-a-good-chocolate-good-podsavechocolate-ep-127/)

Ep 127 ****|** Friday June 20th

[Examining Tony’s Open Chain: Is This a Good Use of AI? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 126Episode 126 of #PodSaveChocolate features an exploration of using Gemini to summarize Tony’s Open Chain Report for the 2023-2024 reporting year. Is this a good use of AI? What can we learn from Gemini’s analysis? What are the limits? Is anything missing? Can Gemini be trusted? \[updated\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-172.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-126-Gemini-AI-SY1280x720.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/is-this-a-good-use-of-ai-podsavechocolate-ep-126/)

Ep 126 ****|** Tuesday June 17th

[Where Chocolate Grows | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 125Episode 125 of #PodSaveChocolate features an interview with three of the authors of the book Onde Cresce o Chocolate (Where Chocolate Grows). \[updated to include photo and link mentioned\]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-171.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-125-Onde-Cresce---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/where-chocolate-grows-podsavechocolate-ep-125/)

Ep 125 ****|** Friday June 13th

[Exploring Tony’s “Open” Chain | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 124Episode 124 of #PodSaveChocolate is an exploration of Tony’s Open Chain, searching for answers to, among other questions, “How ‘Open’ is Open?”![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-170.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-124-TonysOpenChain---Featured1920x1080-1-2.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/exploring-tonys-open-chain-podsavechocolate-ep-124/)

Ep 124 ****|** Tuesday June 10th

---

### **May**

[Interview and Tasting – Baianí Chocolates, Brazil | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 123Episode 123 of #PodSaveChocolate features an interview and tasting of Baianí Chocolates (São Paulo)/Vale Potumuju (Sul da Bahia) with Juliana and Tuta Aquino.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-169.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-123-Baiani---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-and-tasting-baiani-chocolates-brazil-podsavechocolate-ep-123/)

Ep 123 ****|** Tuesday May 27th

[Top Ten Questions People Ask About Chocolate | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 122Episode 122 of #PodSaveChocolate is an exploration of what search engines and AI Chatbots – Google, DuckDuckGo, Perplexity, and ChatGPT “think” are the top ten questions people ask about chocolate.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-168.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-122-TenTopQs---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/top-ten-questions-people-ask-about-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-122/)

Ep 122 ****|** Friday May 23rd

[May 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 121Episode 121 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for May 2025\. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-166.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-121-May-NewsAMA---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/may-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-121-2/)

Ep 121 ****|** Tuesday May 20th

[Interview/Tasting: Neil Ransom, SIAMAYA Chocolate | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 120May is Tasting Month on PodSaveChocolate, with at least five episodes featuring tastings – most of them with interviews with makers. Episode 120 is dedicated to an interview and tasting with Neil Ransom of SIAMAYA Chocolate (Thailand).![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-165.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-120-Siamaya-IntTaste---Featured1920x1080-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-tasting-neil-ransom-siamaya-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-120/)

Ep 120 ****|** Friday May 16th

[Interview/Tasting: Warren Hsu, Fu Wan Chocolate | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 119May is Tasting Month on PodSaveChocolate, with at least five episodes featuring tastings – most of them with interviews with makers. Episode 119 is dedicated to an interview and tasting with Warren Hsu of Fu Wan Chocolate (Taiwan). \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-164.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-119-FuWan-IntTaste---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-tasting-warren-hsu-fu-wan-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-119/)

Ep 119 ****|** Tuesday May 13th

[Interview/Tasting: Ali Gower, Chocolate Tree | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 118May is Tasting Month on PodSaveChocolate, with at least five episodes featuring tastings – most of them with interviews with makers. Episode 118 is dedicated to an interview and tasting with Ali Gower of Chocolate Tree in Scotland.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-111.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-118-ChocTree-IntTaste---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/pinned/interview-tasting-ali-gower-chocolate-tree-podsavechocolate-ep-118/)

Ep 118 ****|** Friday May 9th

[Interview/Tasting: Tania Molina, VillaKuyaya | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 117May is Tasting Month on PodSaveChocolate, with at least five episodes featuring tastings – most of them with interviews with makers. Episode 117 is dedicated to an interview and tasting with VillaKuyaya Chocolate’s Tania Molina. \[ Updated to include discount code \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-110.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-117-Tania-Molina-IntTaste---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/interview-tasting-tania-molina-villakuyaya-podsavechocolate-ep-117/)

Ep 117 ****|** Tuesday May 6th

[Tasting Random Chocolate & Stuff | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 116Episode 116 of #PodSaveChocolate will feature a tasting of some chocolate bars I have rattling around the office, as well as some ingredients to consider. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-109.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-116-TastingStuff---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/tasting-random-chocolate-stuff-podsavechocolate-ep-116/)

Ep 116 ****|** Friday May 2nd

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### **April**

[The 2025 Craft Chocolat Challenge Awards | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 115Episode 115 of #PodSaveChocolate is dedicated to recognizing the winners, sponsors, judges, and organizers of the 2025 Craft Chocolat Challenge.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-108.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-115-CCC-Awards---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-2025-craft-chocolat-challenge-awards-podsavechocolate-ep-115/)

Ep 115 ****|** Tuesday April 29th

[The 2025 Chocolate Scorecard & Tony’s “Fair” Report | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 114Episode 114 of #PodSaveChocolate features a discussion of two recurring topics: The Chocolate Scorecard (released just in time for Easter), and the most recent “Fair” Report from Tony’s Chocolonely. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-107.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-114-ScorecardTonys---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-2025-chocolate-scorecard-tonys-fair-report-podsavechocolate-ep-114/)

Ep 114 ****|** Friday April 25th

[The ChocolateLife Forums | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 113Episode 113 of #PodSaveChocolate features a re-introduction to TheChocolateLife Forums.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-105.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-113-Forums---Featured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-chocolatelife-forums-podsavechocolate-ep-113/)

Ep 113 ****|** Tuesday April 22nd

[The Nature of Innovation | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 112Episode 112 of #PodSaveChocolate features an exploration of what makes a chocolate bar “innovative” – one of the judging categories in the 2025 Craft Chocolat Challenge.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-89.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-112-NatureOfInnovation---Featured1920x1080-2c4db66af3e6bd20.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/the-nature-of-innovation-podsavechocolate-ep-112/)

Ep 112 ****|** Tuesday April 15th

[April 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 111Episode 11 of #PodSaveChocolate features chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for April 2025\. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-88.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-111-AprilNewsAMA---Featured1920x1080-760e3345ae8c86f5.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/april-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-111/)

Ep 111 ****|** Friday April 11th

[Grading Cocoa | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 110Episode 110 explores how cocoa quality is evaluated and expressed. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-80.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-110-GradingCocoa---Featured1920x1080-687d6c6b7553b1fa.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/grading-cocoa-podsavechocolate-ep-110/)

Ep 110 ****|** Tuesday April 8th

[Chocolate in NYC 2025 Trip Report | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 109Episode 109 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look back at the time I spent at the recent Salon du Chocolat in NYC as well as thoughts about NYC as a chocolate destination after two days of walking. The Things We Do For Chocolate.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-79.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-109-NYCtripReport---Featured1920x1080-41e61aa131f3d195.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/chocolate-in-nyc-2025-trip-report-podsavechocolate-ep-109/)

Ep 109 ****|** Tuesday April 1st

---

### **March**

[Chocolate in NYC | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 108Episode 108 of #PodSaveChocolate takes a look at my first steps back in Manhattan and a search for new chocolate experiences after being away for two years. \[ Updated with links \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-78.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-108-Prodigal-NYC--Featured1920x1080-2815eb9b5326bcac-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/chocolate-in-nyc-podsavechocolate-ep-108/)

Ep 108 ****|** Tuesday March 18th

[Judging Chocolate | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 107Episode 107 of #PodSaveChocolate is an exploration/explanation of judging entries in the 2025 edition (Season 4) of the Craft Chocolat Challenge.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-57.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-107--CCC-Judging---Featured1920x1080-41d62f216d78af56.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/judging-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-107/)

Ep 107 ****|** Friday March 14th

[March 2025 News & AMA | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 106Episode 106 of #PodSaveChocolate features the chocolate news that’s fit to eat and AMA/Ask me Anything (about chocolate and cocoa) for March 2025.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-58.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-106--MarchNewsAMA---Featured1920x1080-6a619544887873de.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/march-2025-news-ama-podsavechocolate-ep-106/)

Ep 106 ****|** Friday March 7th

[Elements of a Successful Chocolate Festival | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 105After attending and/or participating in well over 100 chocolate/food festivals and conferences between 1998-2025 (and a similar number between 1983 – 1998 during my high-tech career), Episode 105 of PodSaveChocolate takes a look at what makes a festival successful and why some fail. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-59.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-105--ElementsOfSuccessfulFestivals---Featured1920x1080-0308532800d62598.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/elements-of-a-successful-chocolate-festival-podsavechocolate-ep-105/)

Ep 105 ****|** Tuesday March 4th

### **February**

[A Threat to Craft Chocolate? | #PodSaveChocolate Ep 104Episode 104 is a response to an OpEd penned by Alastair (Ali) Gower of Chocolate Tree (Scotland), published in the industry newsletter Cocoa Radar. While the OpEd posits questions about the definition of craft, it questions how (some) companies market themselves as being craft. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-42.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-104-CraftThreatGower---Featured1920x1080-970bc72f4e4ce66e.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/a-threat-to-craft-chocolate-podsavechocolate-ep-104/)

Ep 104 ****|** Friday February 28th

[Salon du Chocolat NYC 2025 Preview | #PodSaveChocolate Ep103Episode 103 .... previewing the upcoming Salon du Chocolat in NYC to be held March 21-23 at the Javits Convention Center.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-36.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-103-SdCNYCPreview---Featured1920x1080-0b03caa7ca4cc7e5.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/salon-du-chocolat-nyc-2025-preview-podsavechocolate-ep103/)

Ep 103 ****|** Tuesday February 25th

[Equipping a Startup Craft Chocolate Biz | #PodSaveChocolate Ep102Episode 102 explores options for equipping a startup craft chocolate business for success and where the CapEx equipment budget is a key concern. I will only cover build-out issues incidentally.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-35.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-102-Startup-Workshop---Featured1920x1080-7bbe83b8bd73e2b1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/equipping-a-startup-craft-chocolate-biz-podsavechocolate-ep102/)

Ep 102 ****|** Friday February 21st

[Equipping a Budget Workshop Pt 2 | #PodSaveChocolate Ep101Episode 101 explores options for smallwares and low(er)-cost items that fill in the gaps when kitting out a budget chocolate/confectionery workshop. \[ Updated \]![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-34.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/Ep-101-Budget-Wkshp-Pt2---Featured1920x1080-d85329c2bd338372-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/equipping-a-budget-workshop-pt-2-podsavechocolate-ep101/)

Ep 101 ****|** Tuesday February 18th

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## **»» Episodes 1-100 ⬇️ ««**

### **November 17th 2023 – February 14th, 2025**

Splitting up the archive makes page loading much faster. Click the card below to visit the page for episodes 1-100.

[#PodSaveChocolate Archive Episodes 1-100News, views, and conversations on topics in cocoa and chocolate streamed live to YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook. #PodSaveChocolate!![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/icon/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons-40.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/thumbnail/TagImageBanner-PodSaveChocTagFinal_1920x1080-5-1.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/podsavechocolate-archive-episodes-1-100)

Episodes 1-100

---

### **#TheChocolateLifeLIVE Archives**

**To read an archived post** and find the links to watch archived episodes, click on the bookmark card, below.

[#TheChocolateLifeLIVE ArchiveNews, views, and conversations on topics in cocoa and chocolate streamed live to YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook.![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/size/w256h256/2020/12/JR_Pods60x60FavIconCutoutButtons.png)The Chocolate LifeClay Gordon![](https://thechocolatelife.com/content/images/2023/03/solen-feyissa-WG7v_wYZW4Q-unsplash-CalendarFeatured1920x1080.jpg)](https://thechocolatelife.com/thechocolatelife-live-calendar/)

All episodes

⁉️

After a year-long+ experiment, the audio-only versions of PodSaveChocolate episodes have been taken down after an end-of-year review. There were not enough listens to continue uploading episodes and paying for hosting.

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