Spotlight_Episode_221

August 16, 2025

Episode 221

Cydian Kauffman brings a rare clarity to the chemistry of water and its deep connection to taste—especially in tea.

“A water molecule is like a tiny magnet,” he explains, “pulling apart other molecules, including tannins and polyphenols in tea.” As a solvent, water doesn’t just carry H2O but a host of dissolved minerals, trace metals, and hydrogen ions that directly shape a tea’s flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel.

Cydian is the CEO at Pure Water Northwest, helping people make better, science-backed decisions about their water by combining technical expertise with practical solutions. Whether addressing London’s hard water or Seattle’s softer profiles, he emphasizes the importance of consistency and control — often recommending reverse osmosis systems to optimize the brewing experience.

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Spotlight | The Science of Sip

Cydian has been with Pure Water Northwest since 2019. What sets him apart is his ability to demystify water treatment, exploring fringe topics such as structured or hydrogenated water, while also addressing challenges like industrial runoff, high iron levels, arsenic, and bacterial contamination. He is certified by the Water Quality Association as a water treatment representative and holds a degree from North Seattle College. “Water clarity,” he says, “should mean more than just how it looks-it should mean transparency about its true contents and impacts.”

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Dan Bolton

Dan Bolton is a veteran journalist and publisher specializing in the global tea industry. He founded Tea Journey magazine and the Tea Biz podcast, amplifying expert voices and trade insights worldwide. His work spans thousands of articles and interviews, shaping industry dialogue on trade, sustainability, and market trends.

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Dan Bolton

Dan is publisher, podcast host, and blogger. He is a frequent speaker at industry seminars and conferences (virtual and in-person). Dan was the first editor and publisher at World Tea News, worked as editor and publisher of Tea Magazine and managing editor of STiR coffee and tea. His work appears online and in many magazines. In 2016 he organized the collaborative group of tea journalists and experts who founded Tea Journey magazine and in 2021 he launched the Tea Biz podcast. He began his publications career in 1974 as a newspaper reporter.