Rob Hoos-Led Roasting Lab Expands with Apps and AI

"Moving to having a dedicated app for people's phones is something I've been planning for some time. The way of accessing the community is new, but the community has deep roots. Building on Roasting Lab's three-year run as a subscription-based professional development and networking hub, the apps are designed to make the platform easier to use day to day, extending its focus on community mentorship, guidance and practical advice for roasters of all skill levels."

"The apps are also designed to sharpen member-to-member communication tools and introduce an AI agent trained on Hoos' books, training materials and Roasting Lab community content. Hoos said the goal is for the tool to stay roasting-specific and grounded in real-world practice rather than pulling in random internet noise."

"We have home roasters who are just starting up with 50-gram batches to people running 5-bag coffee roasting machines - 300 kilograms per batch - and everyone realizes there is something to learn from each person's perspective. Roasting Lab also offers some direct access to Hoos, who has monitored the forums closely since 2023, frequently jumping into discussions."

Roasting Lab, created by roaster and consultant Rob Hoos, has launched dedicated iOS and Android applications to make its subscription-based professional development platform more accessible. Built on three years of community engagement, the apps enhance member-to-member communication and introduce an AI agent trained specifically on Hoos' books, training materials, and community content. The platform connects roasters across all skill levels—from hobbyists working with 50-gram batches to production operators managing 300-kilogram batches—to share knowledge, troubleshoot problems, and exchange ideas. Topics include diagnosing roast defects, dialing in flavor targets, translating profiles between machines, and addressing production challenges. Hoos actively monitors forums and participates in discussions, ensuring the platform remains grounded in real-world roasting practice rather than generic internet information.

Read at Daily Coffee News by Roast Magazine