Mokhtar Alkhanshali

Mokhtar Alkhanshali, the founder of Port of Mocha, shares his incredible journey from a doorman in San Francisco to a coffee entrepreneur in war-torn Yemen. He discusses the transformative impact of a national coffee auction aimed at empowering local farmers despite ongoing conflict. Mokhtar takes listeners through the nuances of coffee brewing while reflecting on his deep cultural connections to the beverage. His unwavering determination amidst chaos showcases both personal ambition and the resilience of Yemeni coffee producers.

Mokhtar Alkhanshali, a passionate lover of history and coffee, dives deep into the compelling world of Yemeni coffee. He shares the rich cultural and historical significance of coffee in Yemen, revealing how it became commercialized. Listeners will learn about the unique terroir that shapes its flavor profiles and the challenges faced by coffee farmers today. The conversation also touches on the revival of Yemeni coffee culture and its emotional ties to the land, alongside a lighthearted debate on Kendrick vs. Drake.

Mokhtar Alkhanshali, an unlikely coffee entrepreneur and subject of Dave Eggers' 'The Monk of Mocha', details his harrowing journey during Yemen's civil war. He recounts his near-death experiences and imprisonment while desperately trying to export coffee samples to a major fair. The narrative explores his resilience, the rich history of Yemeni coffee, and his unexpected wrongful arrest in Djibouti. Ultimately, Mokhtar's determination leads him from chaos to showcasing Yemeni coffee at a prestigious expo, empowering local farmers along the way.