BeanScene Podcast Ep3: The cup of kindness with Alan White – BeanScene

Ahead of CafeSmart Day 2026, StreetSmart Australia CEO Alan White joins The BeanScene Podcast to discuss the impact that Australia’s coffee industry can have beyond the cup.

For more than 15 years, CafeSmart has united cafes, roasters, baristas, and coffee drinkers around a simple idea: donating $1 from every coffee sold on a single day to support grassroots organisations tackling homelessness in local communities. In this episode, Alan shares the origins of the campaign, explains how funds are distributed, and reveals why localisation is at the heart of StreetSmart’s approach.

The conversation also explores the growing challenge of homelessness in Australia, including the reality of hidden homelessness, and the vital role community organisations play in providing support, stability, and pathways forward.

Alan reflects on his own journey into the non-profit sector, the power of collective action, and why cafés remain some of the most important community hubs in the country.

Catch the latest episode of The BeanScene Podcast, featuring StreetSmart CEO Alan White, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or below.