The Love of My Life: Nikol Novotná on Coffee, Determination and the Art of Roasting

Nikol Novotná, Head Roaster at WatchHouse, shares her remarkable journey from Bratislava to London, from accidentally becoming a barista to working in the roastery and becoming a Q Grader.
We talk about curiosity, persistence, tasting, roasting, women in coffee, learning from mistakes (and fires!), and why great coffee needs more than science, it needs care, intuition and a human touch.

What is London Coffee Podcast?

From the creators of The London Coffee Guide and 5THWAVE, Coffee Podcast London is a new interview-led series celebrating the people, passion, and community behind London’s vibrant coffee scene.

Hosted by coffee industry expert Jeffrey Young, each episode spotlights entrepreneurs, seasoned professionals and standout cafes to uncover what it takes to build a successful coffee business or career in London.

From exciting new openings and emerging trends to lessons in leadership, creativity, and starting out on your own - we delve into the real stories behind the cafés, roasteries, and individuals that make London one of the world’s great coffee destinations.