#TheChocolateLifeLIVE Archive

TheChocolateLifeLIVE series ended on Tuesday, November 14th, 2023 after two years and 146 episodes. The series has been replaced by #PodSaveChocolate.

Pod Save Chocolate Calendar and Archive
News, views, and conversations on topics in cocoa and chocolate streamed live to YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook. #PodSaveChocolate!
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To read an archived post and find the links to watch archived episodes, click on the bookmark card, below.

Commenting has been left on for all archived posts.


»» All Episodes – 2012 to 2023 ««

November

Craft Chocolat Challenge Tasting Roundup | TCL LIVE Finale
Episode 145 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, November 10th.

Ep 146 | November 10th

The Past, Present, and Future of TCL LIVE
Episode 145 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, November 10th.

Ep 145 | November 10th

Updated: That Time When John Oliver Jumped the Shark | TCL LIVE
Episode 144 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, November 7th.

Ep 144 | November 7th – Note that YouTube took down the video. It’s still up on LinkedIn and Facebook at the time of this writing.

TCL LIVE | November News Roundup and AMA
Episode 143 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, November 3rd.

Ep 143 | November 3rd


October

TCL LIVE | A Choccy Week in London Town
Episode 142 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, October 31st.

Ep 142 | October 31st

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There were no episodes on October 24th and 27th – I was traveling internationally (London – the topic of the Oct 31 episode).
TCL LIVE | Winter is Coming ... Can Hot Chocolate Be Far Behind?
Episode 141 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, October 20th.

Ep 141 | October 20th

TCL LIVE | Pet Peeves About Cocoa and Chocolate
Episode 140 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, October 17th.

Ep 140 | October 17th

TCL LIVE | Halloween Chocolates: Treat or Trick?
Episode 139 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, October 13th.

Ep 139 | October 13th

TCL LIVE | The Int’l Cocoa & Chocolate Forum
Episode 138 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, October 10th.

Ep 138 | October 10th

TCL LIVE | October News Roundup and AMA
Episode 137 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE goes LIVE at 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, October 6th.

Ep 137 | October 6th

TCL LIVE | Will There Be Cocoa Here?
Episode 136 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, October 3rd.

Ep 136 | October 3rd


September

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There was no episode on the 29th because of a personal scheduling conflict.
TCL LIVE | AskTCL: Ceremonial Cacao & Cacao Ceremonies
Episode 135 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, September 26th.

Ep 135 | September 25th

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In this episode, the topic of ceremonial cacao and cacao ceremonies is explored. We first delve into the religious and spiritual history of cacao, from its origins to the present day, and discuss the lack of archaeological evidence linking cacao to its spiritual use in Ecuador and suggest that the powerful hallucinogen Ayahuasca may have overshadowed cacao’s significance. We then highlight the need to investigate the connection between cacao and creation mythology in Mesoamerica, particularly among the Maya and Olmec civilizations, and ask if the modern association between cacao and gods in the name theobroma might solely be a result of historical accidents and cultural influences.

The importance of respecting different belief systems is acknowledged while emphasizing that there is no direct connection between many modern cacao ceremonies and ancient creation myths. (If you know of any research on this topic, please share them.)

The role of ceremonial cacao in connecting with our inner selves and achieving a state of heightened consciousness is discussed, with an emphasis on minimal processing and traditional preparation methods involved in making ceremonial cacao. The qualities that make ceremonial cacao "ceremonial grade" are outlined, including organic cultivation practices and the use of high-quality cocoa beans. The cultural misappropriation of cacao ceremonies is touched upon, and the need for maintaining a connection to the heritage and original purpose of these ceremonies is stressed. The power of cacao ceremonies in fostering connections and understanding among different cultures is also highlighted.

TCL LIVE | The High Co$t of Cocoa
Episode 134 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, September 22nd.

Ep 134 | September 22nd

TCL LIVE | All You Need to Know About the 2023 Craft Chocolat Challenge Tasting
Episode 133 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, September 19th.

Ep 133 | September 19th

TCL LIVE | Busted? OLAM’s Troubles in Nigeria
Episode 132 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, September 15th.

Ep 132 | September 15th

TCL LIVE | News Roundup and AMA
Episode 131 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tuesday, September 12th.

Ep 131 | September 12th

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There were no episodes of TheChocolateLifeLIVE on September 1st, 5th, or 8th. Because. Labor Day weekend and personal and schedule conflicts.

August

TCL LIVE | Is #Woke-Washing the New #Greenwashing?
Episode 130 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, August 25th.

Ep 130 | August 25th

TCL LIVE | Pairing Event Review: Chocolate & Whiskey
Episode 129 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, August 18th.

Ep 129 | August 18th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Looking at the World Through Chocolate-Colored Glasses
Episode 128 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, August 11th.

Ep 128 | August 11th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Production Pathways: From Melangers to ... ?
Episode 127 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Friday, August 4th.

Ep 127 | August 4th


July

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Radical Transparency
Episode 126 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tue, July 25th.

Ep 126 | July 25th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Exploring the FCIA Glossary
Episode 125 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, July 21st.

Ep 125 | July 21st

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Influences and Orthodoxy
Episode 124 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tue, July 18th.

Ep 124 | July 18th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Who Decides What’s Fair?
Episode 123 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, July 14th.

Ep 123 | July 14th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | All the News That’s Fit to Eat + AMA
Episode 122 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tue, July 11th.

Ep 122 | July 11th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Proposed: IS Tony’s Chocolonely a Force for Good in the World?
Episode 121 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, July 7th.

Ep 121 | July 7th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Cocoa and Climate Change: Cause? Solution?
Episode 120 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tue, July 4th. Coming up in the next episode — Resolved: Tony’s Chocolonely is a Force for Good in the World.

Ep 120 | July 4th


June

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | FCIA / FFS Summer 2023 Roundup w/ Keith Ayoob
Episode 119 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 9:00 AM PDT / 12:00 PM EDT on Fri, June 30th.

Ep 119 | June 30th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Improving Cocoa Quality – How & Why?
Episode 118 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Tue, June 27th.

Ep 118 | June 27th – With updated Resource links

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This episode discusses the importance of improving cocoa quality and the challenges associated with it. Quality in cocoa beans can be subjective, and farmers are often incentivized to ship more waste along with the beans due to the way they are paid. The host highlights the need for a shared definition of quality and the importance of consistent distribution and fermentation for industrial chocolate makers. However, for craft chocolate makers, inconsistency can be seen as an opportunity to explore different flavors. The video emphasizes the need for education and informing consumers about cocoa flavors to cultivate market demand for high-quality chocolate. It also addresses the subjective nature of chocolate quality and the role of skill and expertise in chocolate making. Furthermore, the video suggests that educating children about quality chocolate can help develop an appreciation for higher-quality products.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Understanding Grenadian Cocoa w/ Shadel Nyack Compton of Belmont Estate
Episode 117 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, June 23rd.

Ep 117 | June 23rd – With updated Resource links

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Tue, June 20th
No episode today – I was a panelist and presenter at Confectionery LIVE.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Barriers to Change
Episode 116 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 AM PDT / 1:00 PM EDT on Fri, June 16th.

Ep 116 | June 16th – With updated Resource links

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The episode discusses various barriers to change in the cocoa and chocolate industry, including the prioritization of shareholder value, short-term thinking, extractive economics, and greenwashing. Host Clay Gordon suggests solutions such as regenerative agriculture, a focus on the triple bottom line, and the need for legal frameworks that prioritize long-term sustainability. Also acknowledged are cultural and political barriers that hinder change in different producing countries and emphasize the importance of considering the feelings attached to important decisions. Lastly, the video ends (as always) with a reminder for viewers to have fun while working with chocolate.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE | Just One Change ...
Episode 115 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE is LIVE from 10:00 MST/13:00 EDT on Tue, June 13th.

Ep 115 | June 13th – With updated Resource links

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This episode discusses the changes people would like to see in the cocoa and chocolate industry as posted on LinkedIn and Facebook. The suggestions range from better education and transparency to warnings on mass-produced chocolate packaging and the introduction of a living wage requirement for farmers that would create a baseline benchmark for pricing. They also discuss the need for sustainability and economic stability and the role of waste reduction in the cocoa-exporting sector. While contributors agree that change is necessary, there are concerns about how it will impact farmers and the complexities of implementing solutions. Lastly, the discussion addresses the need to organize cocoa farmers and federate them to create more bargaining power and attract buyers while also reducing human trafficking and forced labor in the cocoa industry.

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No episodes on Tue, June 6th and Fri, June 9th.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE | All the News and Ask Me Anything
Episode 114 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, June 2nd from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 114 | June 2nd – With updated Resource links


May

TheChocolateLifeLIVE | There’s Vitamins In My Chocolate!
Episode 113 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams worldwide from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Tue, May 30th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 113 | May 30th – With updated Resource links

TheChocolateLifeLIVE: 3rd AVPA Chocolates Processed @ Origin Contest
Episode 112 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 12th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ & featuring winners from around the globe.

Ep 112 | May 26th – With updated Resource links

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There was no #TheChocolateLifeLIVE on Tue, May 23rd.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Understanding Ecuadorian Cacao with Leila Carvajal, Cocoa Supply
Episode 111 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 12th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ & NYC.

Ep 111 | May 19th – With updated Resource links

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In this episode: Leila Carvajal from Cocoa Supply joins host Clay Gordon to discuss the history and geography of Ecuadorian cacao and the challenges of building a sustainable and traceable supply chain. From the story of the origin of Arriba Nacional cacao to the struggle to maintain the rainforest in Ecuador, Carvajal provides insight into the complex world of cocoa production in Ecuador. She discusses the impact of CCN-51, a cocoa variety that was initially demonized but has served as the foundation of the modern Ecuadorian cocoa economy. Carvajal also emphasizes the need to be open to new varieties and breeding that focus on productivity, flavor, and sustainability. Leila also explains the process Cocoa Supply uses to make cocoa butter in their facility, avoiding the use of chemicals such as petroleum solvents and bleaches.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Bolivian Cacao w/ Volker Lehmann
Episode 110 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 12th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ (and from somewhere in the Eastern Iténez region of the Bolivian Beni).

Ep 110 | May 16th – With updated Resource links

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In this episode: host Clay Gordon and guest Volker Lehmann discuss the history, uniqueness, and challenges of Bolivian cacao. Lehmann shared his experiences of discovering wild cacao, buying a hacienda, and exploring Bolivian cacao from Trinidad to La Paz. The speakers discussed the differences between Beniano and Alto Beni cacao, the significance of cacao juice, and the improvements made at Lehmann’s chocolatal, the Hacienda Tranquilidad. They also touched on issues of child labor and shared personal experiences of driving down dangerous roads in Bolivia. The production of Bolivian cacao remains small, but it has received praise for its fino y de aroma cocoa, and there are efforts to increase its visibility in the international markets.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Building a Craft Chocolate Business
Episode 109 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 12th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 109 | May 12th

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In this episode: Host Clay Gordon and guest Dustin Cornett discuss the significance of finding a balance between the path and the destination while building a craft chocolate business. They share insights on defining success, growing a business, sourcing ingredients, networking, and incorporating unique ingredients. They also highlight the importance of balance, personal values, and considering the location of a business. Additionally, they discuss the value of networking, both online and in-person, and the need for feedback to progress and improve. Overall, the speakers emphasize the need to find a balance between growth and personal enjoyment in their work while being aware of the financial implications of their decisions.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Fun With Chocolate
Episode 108 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 5th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 108 | May 9th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Building a Craft Chocolate Factory – Pro Tips
Episode 107 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Fri, May 5th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 107 | May 5th

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In this episode: Orinoco Chocolate Company co-founders, Christian Tyler and Jessica Ellis discuss the process and decisions that went into building their craft chocolate factory in Prescott, Arizona. They advise viewers to plan for growth and consider electrical needs and a functioning HVAC system. They also emphasize the importance of budgeting for independent inspectors and appraisals before buying or building a factory. Jessica and Christian also discuss the necessity of food safety audits and the advantages of being conscious of allergens. Additionally, they stress the significance of developing strong relationships with suppliers and equipment engineers to solve problems and save costs. They encourage chocolate makers to research alternative options and utilize industry resources. Finally, the speakers emphasize the importance of diversifying products and developing relationships with customers to inform product development and marketing strategies.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE: A Conversation With Niccolò Corallo
Episode 106 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT/17:00 Lisbon time on Tue, May 2nd from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 106 | May 2nd


April

Updated: TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Live Chocolate Tasting
Episode 105 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 09:00 MST/12:00 EDT on Friday, April 28th from the new HQ of TheChocolateLife: Prescott, AZ.

Ep 105 | April 28th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE: April All the News That’s Fit to Eat
Episode 104 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Tuesday, April 25th from 9:00~10:00 MST / 12:00~13:00 EDT) from the new HQ of TCL in Prescott, AZ.

Ep 104 | April 25th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Deconstructing the 2023 Chocolate Scorecard
TheChocolateLifeLIVE resumes from its new home in Central Arizona on Friday, April 21st, from 12:00~13:00 EDT (09:00~10:00 PDT).

Ep 103 | April 21st

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No episodes April 1-20 ... on the road on the Cross Country Craft Chocolate Odyssey.

March

TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Cross Country Craft Chocolate Odyssey Update (y mas)
Episode 102 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Friday, March 31st from 12:00~13:00 EDT on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Ep 102 | March 31st

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No episode March 28th – on the road.
TheChocolateLifeLIVE: The Changing Demographics of Who Buys Chocolate – and Why
Episode 101 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE livestreams/ed Friday, March 24th from 12:00~13:00 EDT.

Ep 101 | March 24th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – 100th Episode Special
Episode 100 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, March 21st, from 12:00~13:00 EDT.

Ep 100 | March 21st

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – The Chocolate War 2023
Episode 99 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Friday, March 17th from 12:00~13:00 EDT.

Ep 99 | March 17th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – What Can An AI Tell Us About Chocolate?
Anything new? Surprising? Episode 98 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Tuesday, March 14th from 12:00~13:00 EDT. That’s right folks, it’s Daylight Savings Time here in the US already.

Ep 98 | March 14th (Pi Day)

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – How Cool is COOL?
Episode 97 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Friday, March 10th

Ep 97 | March 10th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Making an alt.Milk Chocolate
Episode 96 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Tuesday, March 7th.

Ep 96 | March 7th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Healthy: What’s in a Word?
Episode 95 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Friday, March 3rd.

Episode 95 | March 3rd


February

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Alternative Ingredients
Episode 94 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 on Tuesday, February 28th.

Episode 94 | Feb 28th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE - Non-Traditional Pairings: Chocolate with Whaaaat?
Episode 93 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 on Friday February 24th.

Episode 93 |  Feb 24th

UPDATED: TheChocolateLifeLIVE – February AMA & Chocolate News
Episode 92 of #TheChocolateLIVE streams on Tuesday, February 21st from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Ep 92 | Feb 21st

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Valentine’s Day Retcon
Episode 91 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Friday, February 17th from 12:00~13:00.

Ep 91 | Feb 17th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Announcing the 3rd AVPA “Chocolates Processed at Origin” Contest
Episode 90 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE will stream on Feb 14th – Valentine’s Day – from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Ep 90 | Feb 14th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – The Adventures Continue: The Cross Country Craft Chocolate Odyssey
Episode 80 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00 EST on Friday, February 10th.

Ep 89 | Feb 10th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – 2023 Craft Chocolat Challenge Results Show
Episode 88 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, February 7th from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Ep 88 |  Feb 7th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – In The (Chocolate) News
Episode 87 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams live on Friday, February 3rd from 12:00 EST.

Ep 87 | Feb 3rd


January

Lead + Cadmium + Chocolate Does NOT Have to Equal Fear
The words lead, cadmium, and chocolate in the same sentence are a perfect storm for clickbait. Add kids into the mix and the topic is pretty much guaranteed to lead the 11 o’clock news because the optics are scary.

Ep 86 | Jan 31st

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Labeling for Packaging Deep Dive
Episode 85 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams worldwide from 12:00~13:00 Friday, January 27th from ChocolateLife HQ in Brooklyn, NY.

Ep 85 | January 27th

Updated: TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Rating and Judging Chocolate (Bars)
Episode 84 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 on Tuesday, January 24th on YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Episode 84 | January 24th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Where Does Chocolate Come From?
Episode 83 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Friday, Jan 20th from 12:~13:00 EST.

Episode 83 |  January 20th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – The 15th Anniversary Show
Episode 82 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE will be a celebration of the fifteen years of the history of TheChocolateLife. Streaming live from 12:00~13:00 EST on Tues, Jan 17th.

Episode 82 | January 17th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Chocolate in NYC Today, Rhonda Kave @ Roni-Sue Chocolates
Episode 81 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Tuesday, January 10th.

Episode 81 | January 10th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Reexamining Retail Markup
Episode 80 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Friday, January 6th.

Episode 80 | January 6th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – The Languages of Cocoa and Chocolate
Episode 79 – the first episode of 2023 – of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE starts streaming from 12:00~13:00 EST on Tue Jan 03, 2023.

Episode 79 | January 3rd


»» 2022 ««

December

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Looking Forward, Looking Back
Episode 78 – the last episode of 2022 – of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Friday December 30th from 12:00~13:00 EST

Episode 78 | December 30th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE: Deconstructing the Epicurious Guide to Chocolate
Episode 77 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, December 27th from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 77 | December 27th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – The $100 Chocolate Bar
Episode 76 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams from 12:00~13:00 EST on Friday, December 23rd.

Episode 76 | December 23rd

UPDATED: TCLLIVE – Awards Analysis Nerdgasm & AMA
Episode 75 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, December 20th from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 75 | December 20th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – with Bhavani V / Diamond Custom Machines
Episode 74 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams Friday, December 16th, from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 74 | December 16th

TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Dustin Cornett / The Craft Chocolate Challenge
Episode 73 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, December 13th from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 73 | December 13th

UPDATED :: TheChocolateLifeLIVE – Cocoa Runners’ Spencer Hyman
Episode 72 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams live on Tuesday, December 6th from 12:00 EST.

Episode 72 | December 6th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE - Raven Hanna, The Molecular Muse
Episode 71 streams live on Friday, December 2nd from 1200~13:00 EST.

Episode 71 | December 2nd


November

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Downscaling Chocolate Production Case Study
Episode 70 streams Tue, Nov 29th from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 70 | November 29th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – The Past, Present, and Future of Cacao?
Episode 69 streams live from 12:00~13:00 EST Friday, Nov 25th.

Episode 69 | November 25th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – AMA Innovation News
Episode 68 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday, November 22nd from 12:00~13:00 EST.

Episode 68 | November 22nd

Updated: TheChocolateLife::LIVE – 2nd Generation Chocolate
Episode 67 streams live from 12:00 EST Friday November 18th.

Episode 67 | November 18th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Where the Wild Chocolate Grows w/ Rowan Jacobsen
Episode 66 streams live on Tuesday, November 15th from ChocolateLife World HQ in Brooklyn, NY, NY beginning at 12:00 EST.

Episode 66 | November 15th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Meet the Director: Denise Speck
Episode 65 streams live from ChocolateLife World HQ in Brooklyn, NY beginning at 12:00 EST Friday, Nov 11.

Episode 65 | November 11th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Leslie Agyare / Three Mountains Cocoa
Episode 64 streams live from ChocolateLife World HQ in Brooklyn, NY starting at 12:00 EST on Tuesday, November 8th.

Episode 64 | November 8th

On The Road Again, Again
Episode 63 streams live from ChocolateLife World HQ (in Brooklyn, NYC) starting at 12:00 EDT Friday, November 4th.

Episode 63 | November 4th


October

🗒️
I was traveling internationally 22 days in October.
TheChocolateLife::LIVE – On The Road Again
Episode 62 of #TheChocolateLifeLIVE streams on Tuesday October 4th beginning at 12:10 EDT.

Episode 62 | October 4th


September

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – CADMIUM 2.0
Episode 61 streams live from 12:00 EDT Friday, Sept 30 w/ special guest and ChocolateLife contributor Keith Ayoob. Join us as we explore the topic of cadmium in chocolate in depth – with a close look at an influential source of (mis)information on this topic.

Episode 61 | September 30th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Top Q&A About Chocolate on Social Media
Episode 60 streams live from 12:00 EDT on Friday, September 16th. This is a “live remote” from Prescott, Arizona, where I am taking a much-needed break.

Episode 60 |  September 16th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Is Modern Slavery Really REAL Slavery?
Episode 59 streams live starting at 12:00 on Tuesday, Sep 13. Please help me spread awareness of this topic by using the hashtag #DontBuyTheLie.

Episode 59 | September 13th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Roasting Deep Dive
Episode 58 starts streaming live Friday, September 9th at 12:00 EDT. In this episode we take a look at approaches/techniques and equipment used for roasting cocoa. Questions are encouraged and appreciated!

Ep 58 | September 9th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Breaking Pairing Boundaries
Episode 57 streams live beginning at noon NYC time on Tuesday, September 6th. This stream builds on the Learning to Taste live stream – so you may want to watch that one first if you have not already.

Episode 57 | September 6th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Does Ben+Jerry+Tony = Greenwashing?
OR: The Good, The Bad, & The Greenwashing! Episode 56 streams live on Friday, Sep 2nd from 12:00 EDT and is a continuation of the discussions about what chocolate is ...

Episode 56 | September 2nd


August

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – What IS Craft Chocolate?
Episode 55 of TheChocolateLife LIVE streams on Tuesday, August 30 from 12:00 EDT. Having done a deep dive into what chocolate legally is (and isn’t) here in the US recently, it’s way past time to take a stab at what Craft Chocolate is (and isn’t).

Episode 55 | August 30th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – What is Chocolate?
Episode 54 streams live on Friday, August 26th from 12:00 EDT and is a deep dive discussion of the standards of identity for chocolate in the US Code of Federal Regulations – plus other applicable regulations chocolate makers should know about.

Ep 54 | August 26th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – How I Learned To Taste ... Anything & Everything
OR: How I approached training my palate on my journey to becoming a professional chocolate critic. Streaming worldwide on Tuesday, August 23rd, from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 53 | August 23rd

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Chocolate Claims DEBUNKED
Misinformation travels six times faster than the truth, and for some reason, bad information is sticky – resistant to being accepted as wrong. In this live stream I give debunking some erroneous claims about chocolate a go.

Episode 52 | August 19th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Dallas Chocolate 2022 Festival Preview
Live stream with my special guest, festival founder/organizer Sander Wolf, begins at 12:00 EDT on Tuesday, August 16th.

Episode 51 | August 16th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Brazilian Chocolate Tasting
Streaming worldwide from NYC starting at 12:00 EDT on Friday August 12th.

Episode 50 | August 12th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – The International Markets for Specialty Cocoa
A look at the international markets for cocoa and where specialty cocoa fits.

Episode 49 | August 9th


July

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I was traveling internationally most of the month – twice to Brazil and once to Colombia. There are quite a few posts from those adventures, but no live streams this month.

June

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Innovation Part 2: 2022 Summer Fancy Food Show Roundup
Episode 48 streams live Tuesday, June 14th from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 48 | June 14th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Innovation, Trends, Awards
Episode 47 streams live on Friday, July 3rd from 12:00 EDT. This is part one in a two-part series surrounding my return to the Fancy Food Show for the first time since June/July 2019.

Episode 47 | June 10th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – María Jiménez Rojas / Daarnhouwer
“A month in the life of a specialty cocoa specialist” streams worldwide live from ChocolateLife HQ in Brooklyn, NY on Friday, June 3rd starting at 10:00 EDT / 16::00 CET.

Episode 46 | June 3rd

May

UPDATED: TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Chocoa 2022 Preview (Unofficial)
Episode 45 streams live from Brooklyn, NY starting at 12:00 EDT on Tuesday, May 31st.

Episode 45 | May 31st

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Solar Drying Cocoa w/ GrainPro’s Diego Lara
Streaming WorldWide LIVE from Brooklyn NY on Friday, May 27th beginning at 12:00 EDT.

Episode 44 | May 27th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Can Chocolate be Raw? Paleo? + a Fad(?) & AMA
As with most things cocoa and chocolate, answers to questions about chocolate being raw or paleo are prefaced by, “It depends on what you mean by raw / paleo.”

Episode 43 | May 24th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Connecting Ethics, Sustainability, & Transparency to Impact
Episode 42 (as everyone knows, 42 is the answer to the ultimate question of Life, the Universe, and Everything) streams LIVE worldwide from Brooklyn, NY on Friday, May 20th from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 42 | May 20th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Bryan Graham / Fruition Chocolate Works
Episode 41 streams LIVE worldwide from Brooklyn, NY starting at 12:00 EDT on Tuesday, May 17th.

Episode 41 | May 17th

UPDATED – TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Constructing Transparent Transparency Reports
Episode 40 streams LIVE worldwide from Brooklyn, NY starting at 12:00 EDT on Tuesday, May 10th.

Episode 40 | May 10th

UPDATED: TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Deconstructing “Transparency” Reports
Episode 39 streams LIVE worldwide from Brooklyn, NY from 12:00 EDT on Friday, May 6th.

Episode 39 | May 6th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Samir Giha, Cacaosuyo, Perú
Episode 38 starts streaming to you live from Brooklyn NY & Lima, Perú at 12:00 EDT / 11:00 PET Tuesday, May 3rd.

Episode 38 | May 3rd

April

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Philippe Juglar / AVPA
Episode 37 streams live worldwide from NYC/Paris from 12:00 EDT Friday, April 29th.

Episode 37 | April 29th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE From the Front w/ Miki Mistrati
Episode 36 streams LIVE from 12:00 EDT / 17:00 BST on Tuesday April 26th.

Episode 36 | April 26th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Carlos Eichenberger, Danta Chocolate, Guatemala
Episode 35 starts streaming live at 12:00 EDT on Friday, April 22nd.

Episode 35 | April 22nd

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Heinde & Verre
Note the earlier start time! Episode 34 streams live from 10:00 EDT (16:00 CET) on Tuesday, April 19th.

Episode 34 | April 19th

TheChocolateLife LIVE - Deep Dive into Cut Tests
Episode 33 streams live starting at 12:00 EDT on Friday, April 15th.

Episode 33 | April 15th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – with Chantal Coady
Episode 32 streams live starting at 11:00 am EDT – that’s 16:00 British Summer time – on Tuesday, April 12th.

Episode 32 | April 12th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Deep Dive into Continuous Tempering
Episode 31 streams live on Friday, April 8th from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 31 | April 8th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Judging Quality
Episode 30 streams live from 12:00 EDT on Tuesday, April 5th.

Episode 30 | April 5th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – The Penn State Chocolate Short Course
Episode 29 streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn on Friday, April 1st starting at 12:00 noon EDT.

Episode 29 | April 1st


March

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Yes, Virgil, There IS Such a Thing as Bad Chocolate
Episode 28 streams live worldwide on Tuesday, March 29th from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 28 | March 29th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Melangers Deep Dive
Episode 27 streaming LIVE worldwide on Friday, March 25th from 12:00 EDT.

Episode 27 | March 25th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Jeff Abella / Moka Origins
Episode 26 streams worldwide LIVE from 12:00 EDT, Tuesday, March 22ndWi.

Episode 26 | March 22nd

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Mass Balance & Other Cautionary Tales
Episode 25 streaming worldwide LIVE from 12:00 EDT, Friday, March 18th.

Episode 25 | March 18th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Mackenzie Rivers / Map Chocolate & The Next Batch School
Episode 24 streaming worldwide live on Tuesday March 15th from 12:00 EDT – Daylight time here in the US.

Episode 24 | March 15th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Words. Beliefs. Actions. Consequences.
Episode 23 streaming worldwide live on Tuesday March 11th from 12:00 EST.

Episode 23 | March 11th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Nick Davis, One One Cacao, Jamaica
Episode 22 streaming worldwide live on Tuesday March 8th from 12:00 EST.

Episode 22 | March 8th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Chocolate Styles, Ancient & Modern
Episode 21: Streaming live from 12:00pm EST Friday March 4th

Episode 21 | March 4th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Max Gandy / Dame Cacao
Episode 20: Streaming live Tue Mar 1 from 12:00 EST.

Episode 20 | March 1st


February

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Printing & Packaging 101
Episode 19: Streaming live from 12:00pm EST Friday February 25th

Episode 19 | February 25th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Damion Badalamenti
Streaming live from 12:00pm EST Friday February 22nd

Episode 18 | February 22nd

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – the blacklist
Streaming live from 12:00pm EST Friday February 18th

Episode 17 | February 18th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – w/ Shawn Askinosie
Streaming LIVE on Tue Feb 15 from 12pm EST

Episode 16 | February 15th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Learning to Taste (Chocolate)
Streaming LIVE on Fri Feb 11 from 12:00 EST.

Episode 15 | February 11th

TheChocolateLife::LIVE – Wolter Chocolates, Tabasco, MX
Tue Feb 8 starting at 12:00 EST

Episode 14 | February 8th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Co-Packing 101
Friday, February 4th, 12:00 EST

Episode 13 | February 4th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Derek Pedersen & John Malik
The first in the new Tuesday series that focuses on individuals in cocoa and chocolate.

Episode 12 | February 1st


January

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Global & DR Cocoa Studies Part 2
Friday, January 28th starting at 10:00 EST / 16:00 CET.

Episode 11 | January 28th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Terry Collingsworth, International Rights Advocates
Friday, January 21st, 12:00 EST.

Episode 10 | January 21st

TheChocolateLife :: Live – 2021 Global Cocoa Study Preview
Friday, January 14th beginning at 12:00 EST.

Episode 9 | January 14th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – Learning to Teach Chocolate Making
Streaming LIVE Friday, January 7th from 12 noon EST.

Episode 8 | January 7th


»» 2021 ««

December

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE – ESG & Sustainability Reporting
Friday, December 31st starting at 12 noon EST.

Episode 7 | December 31st

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE 2021 Year in Review
Friday, December 24th starting at 12 noon EST.

Episode 6 | December 24th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Carolina Pozo, MUZE Chocolate
Streaming Live on Friday December 17th starting at 12 noon EST.

Episode 5 | December 17th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Lars Saquero Møller, Agroclimatica
Streaming Live on Friday December 10th starting at 10am EST.

Episode 4 | December 10th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Heather Terry, GoodSam Foods
The next stream in the regularly-scheduled series of interviews LIVE streamed to YouTube (on The Chocolate Wire channel) and Facebook (The Chocolate Life page and the Salones Internacionales de Cacao y Chocolate group).

Episode 3 | December 3rd


November

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Christopher Curtin
The next stream in the regularly-scheduled series of interviews LIVE streamed to YouTube (on The Chocolate Wire channel) and Facebook (The Chocolate Life page and the Salones Internacionales de Cacao y Chocolate group).

Episode2 | Nov 26th

TheChocolateLife :: LIVE w/ Arcelia Gallardo
Participate LIVE Friday, November 19th at 12 noon EST.

Episode 1 | Nov 19th


TheChocolateWire on YouTube

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