Meet Claudio LoCascio - a Dartmouth/Columbia grad, coffee connoisseur, and one of the brains behind the whole Joyride operation!
Hometown:
Teaneck, New Jersey
How did you get into coffee?
When I was traveling while working for Winebow, I started drinking espresso as a way of just staying awake. I really got into when I had a "god shot" at the Catalina Cafe in Houston, Texas. It made me realize the breadth of coffee was on par with that of wine. Since then it's been a growing obsession.
What is your first coffee memory?
As a child I spent summers in Germany with my grandparents. Sometimes they would bring out a pitcher of chocolate milk and a pitcher of coffee. The kids and adults would both add ice cream to their respective cups.
What is your role at Joyride?
I'm a partner here. I was brought on to help grow the business.
Alma Mater/Degree:
B.A. in Economics with a minor in Japanese from Dartmouth College, M.B.A. from Columbia Business School
Industry Certifications, etc.
WSAT (Wine and Spirits Trust) Advance Certification, Level II Sake Specialist
Previous work experience?
I worked as a Sake Brand Manager for Winebow, a premium wine and spirits importer and distributor up until business school. After Columbia, I worked at Bridgewater Associates as an investment engineer. Ultimately my love of food brought me back into the industry.
Where do you see the coffee industry being in a few years?
I see it heading along the path of craft beer: people will become increasingly concerned with quality and variety. I think the best roasters and growers develop loyal followings.
Pet Peeves?
Tardiness.
Interests outside of coffee?
Food and wine, international soccer. I also home brew beer.
Favorite Book?
Goethe's Faust, anything by Murakami.
Favorite Cup of Coffee?
Perfectly pulled espresso.
