Inside Trader Joe's
From our humble beginnings as a small chain of eclectic Southern California convenience stores, Trader Joe’s has grown to become a national chain of 579 (and counting) neighborhood grocery stores, employing more than 67,000 Crew Members. How? By being comfortable with being different. Every episode takes you Inside Trader Joe’s in a podcast series only Trader Joe's could deliver. Are you a Trader Joe’s fan? Want to know what keeps people coming back? Hungry for all the new and exciting stuff coming to your neighborhood store? Let's go Inside Trader Joe’s. Thanks for listening.
S18 E88 · Mon, April 07, 2025
Episode 88: Trader Joe’s Goes to Modena, with Vim and Vinegar
There are certain foods that are synonymous with their place names. Parmigianno Reggiano. Kalamata Olives. And the focus of this episode, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. A world-renowned product with a long and fascinating history, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is produced exclusively in the Modena region of Italy. In this episode we sit down (and do a bunch of walking!) with one of Modena’s largest and most respected producers of this vigorous vinegar – they’ve been supplying Trader Joe’s for decades – where we learn some history and get a behind-the-scenes look at how it’s made. Listen in for a sneak peak at a new TJ’s product coming soon to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Trasncript (PDF)
S18 Enull · Mon, March 24, 2025
ICYMI: Does Trader Joe's Do Retail Media?
We get a lot of questions at Trader Joe’s. And we see things in the news that make us ask questions, too. Recently, we’ve seen a bunch of stories about so-called “Retail Media.” So what the heck is Retail Media, and does Trader Joe’s do it? In a nutshell, Retail Media is all about using screens and media and technology in retail stores, ostensibly to replace humans. That doesn’t make sense to us – instead of investing in technology and media resources to tell our stories, in our stores, we invest in our people and our products, so every experience you have with Trader Joe’s is a great one. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get our take on Retail Media. Transcript (PDF)
S18 E87 · Mon, March 10, 2025
Episode 87: A List for Springtime Shopping at Trader Joe's
It’s nearly spring. And at Trader Joe’s, that means new products popping up like flower buds after an early thaw. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re getting up close and personal with a baker’s dozen of our favorite new (and returning) things for spring. Looking for Easter candy and treats? You’ll find them here, and you’ll be impressed not only with how they look, but how they taste. A new Mini Sheet Cake that happens to be gluten free? Oh. Yes. Potato chips made with Irish potatoes and butter? Aye. A new blend of greens to elevate your salad game and a pasta sauce that’s simple, elegant, and extraordinarily delicious? Well… yes. Would you believe a wine made with oranges? You should believe, and you should try it. One last thing… no bunnies were harmed in the making of this episode. Transcript (PDF)
S18 Enull · Mon, February 24, 2025
Trader Joe's Wine Club: Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand
Welcome to another episode of the Trader Joe’s Wine Club, brought to you by Inside Trader Joe’s. In this sip-sized segment, we’re going grass-roots – or at the very least, grass-noted – with a conversation about New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. More specifically, we’re highlighting Raorao Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region, an area on the South Island renowned for this varietal (among others). This wine is an excellent expression of Marlborough Sauv Blanc – a quick listen here will reveal what makes this wine so special, some delicious pairing ideas, and what a tremendous value it is at Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S18 E86 · Mon, February 10, 2025
Episode 86: Pie-ning for Pizza at Trader Joe's
We often talk about traveling the world to find the most delicious products we can offer, so we can bring them to our customers at a great value. Decades ago, when we began our search for truly excellent frozen pizza, it occurred to us that maybe the best place to go was the birthplace of the stuff… Italy. Turns out we were right, and our frozen pizzas became the stuff of lore – they’re just that good. Our frozen pizza selection has evolved since those early days, yet some of our favorites still come from Italy. And perhaps even more striking, some of our favorites still come from the same supplier we serendipitously stumbled upon all those years ago. In this episode, we take you on a journey of pizza-rific proportions, visting this same Italian pizza producer and getting the inside scoop on how it all started, how they manage to make such delicious pies, and what the future may hold. Spoiler alert: the future is round, cheesy, and well-sauced. Transcript (PDF)
S17 E85 · Mon, January 27, 2025
Episode 85: The 16th Annual Trader Joe's Customer Choice Awards
The votes are in, and the time has come to reveal the winners of the 16 th Annual Trader Joe’s Customer Choice Awards! Sixteen years of celebrating our customers’ favorite products, as voted by you, our customers. It’s just as exciting to us this year as it was in year one. This year, we’ve added a New category. That’s right, a New category – Favorite New Product! There are so many possibilities… can you guess what it might be? We’re also welcoming another product to our Hall of Fame, that rarefied space populated by products you’ve named as favorites a total of five times. With awards season well-underway, we’re happy to present awards that eschew glitz and glamour to bring you the only awards where the winners are (almost) all edible! Transcript (PDF)
S17 E84 · Tue, January 21, 2025
Episode 84: Trader Joe's Snacky Hacks for Big Games and Awards Consideration
As listeners of this podcast know, the Trader Joe’s mothership is located in Monrovia, CA. Monrovia is really close to one of the wildfires that’s devastated Southern California recently. We have a lot of Crew Members and customers who’ve been impacted by these fires, and we wanted to take a minute to send our best wishes to them and everyone who’s dealing with the aftermath of these events. We recorded this episode not too long ago in our other mothership, in Boston. It’s a little silly, and, we hope, fun. We could all use a little fun and silly right about now. Winter is jam-packed with snacking opportunities, and if updating your snack routine is on your 2025 agenda, listening to this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s should be atop your to-do list. Whether it’s a big game or a fashion-forward awards show, when people pop by, you need snacks! We sat down with some Crew Members in our other mothership in Boston to discuss their favorite “snacktivities” using Trader Joe’s products. They shared spicy hacks and savory hacks, simple hacks and slightly more involved hacks. What every snack hack has in common? Great taste and a near-100% guarantee of good times. Have a listen, then pay us a visit to pick up what you need to enjoy some snacktivities of your own. Transcript (PDF)
S17 Enull · Fri, December 27, 2024
Trader Joe's Wine Club: Champagne for NYE and Beyond
We’re back with another episode of the Trader Joe’s Wine Club, brought to you by Inside Trader Joe’s. In this seasonally inspired sip-sized segment, we’re focusing on those most festive wines, the sparklers. Focusing in even further, we’re celebrating Champagne, perhaps the greatest gift France has ever given the wider world (we love you, Baguettes and Brie, but Champagne… it’s so festive and delightful it even comes with its own bubbles!). As New Year’s Eve approaches, join us as we learn a bit about what makes this wine special, some unexpected pairing ideas, and our recommendation for a high-quality, value-priced Champagne you’ll find on our wine shelves right now. Transcript (PDF)
S17 E83 · Mon, December 16, 2024
Episode 83: Inside the Trader Joe's Holiday Tasting Panel, vol. 2
Every year, just as most of our holiday decorations are packed away and the world is focused on winter’s snowscapes and the coming thaw of spring, the product development teams at Trader Joe’s are laser-focused on the holidays, nearly a full year in the future. Consider this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s a bit of back-to-the-future, or at least back-to-the-present, where we take you inside the Holiday Tasting Panel. This is a multi-day sensory extravaganza, where our panelists focus all their attention taste, value, and all the attributes that make a product just right for the holiday season lineup at Trader Joe’s. Best of all, each of these gems is now available at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, just for the ho-ho-holiday season. Transcript (PDF)
S17 E82 · Mon, December 02, 2024
Episode 82: It's the Most Wonderful Trader Joe's Shopping List of the Year
The Holiday Season is truly the most festive time of year at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, with hundreds of celebration-worthy products making appearances on our shelves for a limited time. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re making a list, checking it twice (thrice, even!), and delivering it right to you. English Toffee Ice Cream AND a British Shortbread Collection? Right-o! Lemon Peel Stuffed Olives and an Elevated Cracker Assortment to take your holiday hors d’ouevres to a higher level? Step right up! A cute cousin for a TJ’s holiday classic and even an option for your pup? Yes, at Trader Joe’s, the Jingle Jangles for us all. Tune in, make your own list, and head on over to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s for some holiday cheer! Transcript (PDF)
S17 Enull · Mon, November 25, 2024
TJ's Wine Club: Wine for Thanksgiving 2024
Welcome to the premiere episode of the Trader Joe’s Wine Club, brought to you by Inside Trader Joe’s. There’s no membership fee and no shipping charges – and that’s because this isn’t an actual Wine Club. In these occasional, sippable episodes of Inside Trader Joe’s (there we go being all figurative again – you can’t really sip this episode), we’ll uncork some information about some of our favorite wines of the moment – like tasting notes, origin stories, and pairing suggestions. In this inaugural pour, we’re focusing on two wines we think will be right at home on any Thanksgiving dinner table. Transcript (PDF)
S17 E81 · Mon, November 18, 2024
Episode 81: What We're Wine-ing About at Trader Joe's
Trader Joe’s has been a destination for winning wine finds since our earliest days, and more than 57 years into our journey, our stores remain a source of tremendous values on wines from the world’s best growing regions. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we sit down with four folks from our wine team who are doing the work, day after day, to find those wines and get them to our shelves. Grenache? Great. Champagne? ‘Course! Cabernet? Rosé? Okay, okay! Have a listen, then take a trip to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s wine section, where a Crew Member can help you find just the right bottle for any occasion. Transcript (PDF)
Mon, November 04, 2024
Episode 80: What Makes a Neighborhood Trader Joe's?
We all know that every neighborhood is unique. And because Trader Joe’s is a national chain of neighborhood grocery stores, every Trader Joe’s is as unique as the neighborhood of which it is a part. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re taking you inside two distinctive neighborhood Trader Joe’s stores, that just so happen to be in the same neighborhood. (Right? It’s amazing what a few blocks can do!) Starting with our original Back Bay store in Boston – the smallest Trader Joe’s in the known universe – and traveling almost five blocks away to Boston’s newest TJ’s (also in the Back Bay), it’s plain to see that every store is a reflection of its surroundings – the customers, the Crew, and the physical space it inhabits. And a super-exciting bonus – we’re learning about stand pipes and rack rooms! Yes! Transcript (PDF)
S16 Enull · Mon, October 21, 2024
ICYMI: How Do I Get a Trader Joe's in My Neighborhood
We get a lot of questions at Trader Joe’s. One of those we hear the most is, “Hey, when are you opening a store in my neighborhood?” And “How do you decide where to put a Trader Joe’s?” – that comes up a lot, too. As you can imagine, like Trader Joe’s stores themselves, choosing store locations isnot a one-size-fits-all approach. Truth is, we’d like to be in thousands of neighborhoods all across the country – and it’s going to take some time. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S16 E79 · Mon, October 07, 2024
Episode 79: What's In Your Trader Joe's Shopping Cart
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re taking you inside our customers’ shopping carts to find out what keeps them coming back to Trader Joe’s again and again. For this inaugural iteration of our Customer Cart Conversations, we go to Trader Joe’s number 122 in Studio City, California, where our store Captain Jay Jay gets up close and personal with the contents of customers’ carts, with questions about favorites. Along the way, we get some insights into how Trader Joe’s brings a little joy and deliciousness into their busy lives. We’ll get answer to pressing questions like: Savory or sweet? Snack or dessert? And even, Regular Fries or Sweet Potato Fries? What’s in YOUR cart? Transcript (PDF)
S16 E78 · Mon, September 09, 2024
Episode 78: Fall Into the Season with a Shopping List from Trader Joe's
It’s September at Trader Joe’s. That, of course, means the Pumpkin-palooza is underway. You’ll find more than 70 pumpkin-forward products on our shelves this season – including new entries like Pumpkin Spice Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate and the much-anticipated Pumpkin Mini Sheet Cake. And despite the plethora of pumpkin, this season is also about so much more. Like Apple (Shortbread Cookies), Maple (Brown Sugar Butter), Vanilla Cardamom (Cold Brew Coffee), and Butternut Squash (Mac & Cheese). There are returning faves and new finds filled with fabulous flavors in every corner of your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Listen in to this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s to get the scoop on a few of our favorites. Check out traderjoes.com and @traderjoes on Instagram for more on what’s new and what’s back (finally!) in your Trader Joe’s. Transcript
S16 E77 · Mon, August 26, 2024
Episode 77: Trader Joe's Goes Back to School with Chocolate and Mustard
When we think about back-to-school, we immediately think of chocolate and mustard. (Doesn’t everyone?) Specifically, we think of Belgian chocolate and Dijon Mustard. Just in time for back-to-school shopping – as well as classes like History, Geography, Chemistry, and Culinary Arts – this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s takes you to the source of these longtime favorites. Travel along with us as we go inside a chocolate factory – outside Brussels – talking to the folks who make some of our favorite chocolate (we’re looking at you, Pound Plus Bars!); and to the very (aromatic) room where the mustard magic happens, getting the inside scoop on how Dijon, France came to be home of the world’s most iconic mustard. Transcript (PDF)
S16 Enull · Mon, August 19, 2024
ICYMI: What Do the Bells Mean at Trader Joe's?
Do you ever feel like you’re hearing things when you’re shopping at Trader Joe’s? You’re not alone. The bells are ringing at Trader Joe’s – nearly all the time. They act as a kind of intercom system, and they keep us attuned to what’s happening in the store. Ever wonder what they mean? Come on, ring those bells, and tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S16 E76 · Mon, August 05, 2024
Episode 76: Growing People at Trader Joe's
When you ask folks why they shop at Trader Joe’s, they’ll usually mention the “Three Ps” – Products, Prices, and People. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re diving deep into the third P – People. As we continue to open more stores around the country, ensuring we have the right people in those stores is a top priority. And it doesn’t happen by accident. We’re always on the lookout for great people, and we’re constantly at work developing tools to help those folks cultivate their skills and strengths. More Trader Joe’s stores means more than just new buildings; it means more opportunities for more people to grow right along with us. Transcript (PDF)
S15 E75 · Mon, July 15, 2024
Episode 75: Trader Joe's Store Recipe Contest Winner
Fact number one: nothing generates excitement like a contest. Fact number two: when we announced our Store Recipe Contest, we could not have predicted the level of excitement it would generate. Fact number three: the Crew Members in our stores are culinary creative in countless ways, and the recipes they submitted for this contest were exciting, interesting, and most of all, delicious. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we get a behind the scenes look into how the winning recipe was chosen, and we have a chat with the curious and creative Crew Members behind the winning recipe. And speaking of recipes… fact number four: you’ll find the contest champ at traderjoes.com. Transcript (PDF)
S15 Enull · Mon, June 24, 2024
ICYMI: How Do I Find Great Trader Joe's Recipes
Looking for something interesting – and easy to prepare – for dinner? An appetizer to wow a crowd? A cocktail or mocktail to satisfy even the most critical companion? Or even a creative way to use up the very last bits of peanut butter or jam? We turn to our resident recipe developer for help, and share some tips to help you find recipes that are sure to make you love your favorite TJ’s products even more. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, for all the delicious details. Transcript (PDF)
S15 E74 · Mon, June 10, 2024
Episode 74: A List for Summertime Shopping at Trader Joe's
Trader Joe’s is ready for summer! Our shelves, freezers, refrigerators, and bakery racks are brimming with new and returning favorites to make the season really shine. Bet you didn’t know you needed Eggs & Bacon Gummies… but you do. And your dog needs Surf’s Pup Dog Biscuits just as much. Two new ready-to-pop-on-the-grill burgers will have all your friends on the lookout for your next cookout. A new Boba kit, Coffee Mochi Ice Cream, and Organic Freezer Pops… listen in for all the delicious details, and then swing by your neighborhood Trader Joe’s and fill a cart with your faves. Three, two, one… summer! Transcript (PDF)
S15 Enull · Mon, May 13, 2024
ICYMI: How Does Trader Joe's Set Prices (Spoiler Alert: It's About Value)
At Trader Joe’s, we more or less obsess over value, that magical place where top quality and excellent prices meet. From Olive Oil to Almonds, and a few thousand other products in between, we do the work to ensure we’re offering the best products at the best prices, every day. So, how do we do set our prices? Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S15 E73 · Mon, April 15, 2024
Episode 73: Trader Joe's Air Fryer Faves
The air fryer. Depending on who you listen to, it’s either the best thing to hit kitchens since the microwave, or it’s a silly waste of space. Once you listen to this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we think you’ll be happy to walk into the light of the humble air fryer. We asked some Crew Members in our office to share their favorite Trader Joe’s products, air fryer style. We head to the kitchen and enjoy some appetizers, entrees, breakfast treats, and even a vegetable! #babybroccoli Transcript (PDF)
S15 Enull · Wed, March 13, 2024
ICYMI: What's Up With Trader Joe's Mini Tote Bags
Mini Tote Bags? Those are a thing? Apparently, yes. And we knew we loved them – that’s why we decided to sell them. We absolutely did not predict how much our customers would love them. So what’s up with these adorable little tote-lets? Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S15 E72 · Mon, March 11, 2024
Episode 72: It's Springtime for Shopping List at Trader Joe's
Ah, spring. Birds singing, trees blooming, and products arriving, at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re getting up close and personal with some of our favorite new and returning products for spring. Chocolate Donut Holes? OMD yes. Orange Wine? We spend some time with our resident wine expert to talk about wine of many colors. We’ll take a peek at – and a taste of – Piquant Popcorn. Can we talk about the Cinnamon Twist Danish Pastry? Yes we can, and yes we do, with our Bakery Category Manager. There’s always something new, delicious, and exciting at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s – this episode is loaded with all of these. Have a listen, then make your own springtime list and pay a visit to your neighborhood store... Transcript (PDF)
S15 E71 · Wed, February 28, 2024
Episode 71: Inside – And Outside – Trader Joe's in Providence, RI
There are things that tie every Trader Joe’s together – delicious products, terrific everyday prices, and phenomenal Crew Members to name a few. Yet every store is also different. How can they all be different? That’s easy – we’re a neighborhood grocery store, and every store is in a unique neighborhood. The Crew reflects the neighborhood, the layout of the store reflects the neighborhood, and there are often signs and murals that reflect the neighborhood. Our store in Providence, Rhode Island is a great neighborhood store, with lots of only-in-Providence features to celebrate – let’s go, Parcel six! In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re going both inside and outside our store in Providence, Rhode Island, to get up close and personal with this quintessential neighborhood store. If you're in Providence, check out the store and their one-of-a-kind mural in person. And if you're not in Providence, you can check out images of their gorgeous mural in the images below, courtesy of The Avenue Concept. And click here for more information about the mural and its incorporation of Providence's history. Good stuff, indeed! Transcript (PDF) <img src= "data:image/jpeg;base64,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
S14 E70 · Mon, January 22, 2024
Episode 70: Trader Joe's 15th Annual Customer Choice Awards
The votes are in, and the time has come to reveal the winners of the 15 th Annual Trader Joe’s Customer Choice Awards! (Can we stop for a moment to consider that this is the 15 th Annual Customer Choice Awards? Seriously, we never saw this coming…) We’ve changed things up a bit this year, adding a couple of new categories for consideration – and that’s resulted in some new products in the winners’ circle. Excellent! Get ready for a (not-so) surprising upset in the Bath, Body & Home category and a delicious discussion of your favorite Breakfast & Brunch options. We even have some sneak peeks at a few new products, coming soon, that could just find their way on to the Awards stage next year… Click here for the complete list of winners. Transcript (PDF)
S14 E69 · Tue, December 26, 2023
Episode 69: Trader Joe's Rings in the New Year... with Bubbles!
Year’s end is a wonderful time for remembrances and reflections… it’s also an excellent time (some may say the best time) for toasting to what’s to come, for raising a glass to a hopeful future. We’ll drink to that! And we can’t think of a better drink for that toast than La Burgondie Crémant de Bourgogne, a crisp and easy-drinking sparkling wine from the Burgundy region of France. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we take you inside the winery where this stellar sparkler is styled, and we get the inside story of how this classic Crémant is crafted, directly from the winemaker. We hope you’ll join us on this idyllic journey to a most magical place, just in time to ring in the New Year. Transcript (PDF)
S14 E68 · Mon, November 27, 2023
Episode 68: It's a Holly Jolly Trader Joe's Holiday Shopping List
When the holliest and jolliest of holiday seasons is on the agenda, Trader Joe’s should absolutely be on your list of must-visits. In this episode, we celebrate some of the best we have to offer this holiday season. Danish cookies and delightfully decorated pretzels; candles redolent of chocolate croissants and 12 Days of Beauty to make your skin and spirit shine; cinnamon bun inspired coffee accoutrements and baking mixes… and SO. MUCH. MORE. To make your season merry and bright, have a listen, then, with a Jingle and a Jangle, pay a visit to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S14 Enull · Mon, November 20, 2023
A Mini: A Happy Thanksgiving Wish from Trader Joe's
In this mini episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we spend just a few minutes with our Chairman and CEO, Bryan Palbaum, and our Vice CEO and President, Jon Basalone, to talk about the things we’re thankful for this year. Friends, family, customers, Crew Members, favorite products being in-stock… And thanks to you, as always, for listening. Transcript (PDF)
S14 E67 · Mon, November 06, 2023
Episode 67: Inside the Trader Joe's Holiday Tasting Panel
Before most of the world has even packed away its holiday decorations, Trader Joe’s is busy developing new products for the following year’s holiday season. How do we decide which products you’ll see in stores during the holidays? Our Tasting Panel is at the heart of it, and in this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re taking you inside the Holiday Tasting Panel, a days-long event where our product developers put forth their best ideas for future holiday fare, and The Panel tastes and questions and ponders… and ultimately comes to consensus on which products will fill our shelves in the holiday season ahead. As an added bonus, we revisit the origins of one of our most beloved holiday sweet treats – Jingle Jangle – and chat with suppliers making a couple of this year’s new creations. Transcript (PDF)
S14 Enull · Mon, October 16, 2023
ICYMI: What's Not In Trader Joe's Products
You can see what’s in a product just by looking at the ingredient listing on the package. What you might not know is that Trader Joe’s has a long list of ingredients we don’t use in our products. There are reasons we use certain things, and reasons we don’t use other things. What’s what, and more importantly, why? Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S14 E66 · Tue, September 12, 2023
Episode 66: A Trader Joe's Shopping List for Fall? Heck, Yes!
Are you ready to fall in love? With fabulous faves like Fall Harvest Salsa and Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese? Or maybe new, destined-to-be-faves like Mini Maple Marshmallows or Maple Fudge? (Of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention some returning Maple marvels as well.) This fall-forward episode of Inside Trader Joe’s is a harbinger of the season, and a surefire way to whet your appetite for all things cozy and comforting. Honeycrisp Apple Granola? Wicked Good Mini Chocolate Bars? (Yes!) Have a listen, and have a pencil ready… you’re going to want to make a list of your own! Transcript (PDF)
S13 Enull · Mon, August 28, 2023
ICYMI: What the Heck is a Tasting Panel
Did you know that every product on the shelves at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s goes through a rigorous tasting process before we decide to sell it? Rigorous tasting? What the heck does that even mean, Trader Joe’s? In a nutshell, it means we don’t just offer something for sale because we can ; we only offer those things that taste great and represent a great value. To make those decisions, we taste everything – and tasting is, perhaps surprisingly, not the same as eating. It’s careful, it’s considered, it’s… rigorous. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get a taste for yourself. Transcript (PDF)
S13 E65 · Mon, August 14, 2023
Episode 65: Q&A with Trader Joe's CEO and President
Every Trader Joe’s has a few things in common – delicious products, excellent everyday prices, and really terrific people. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re talking to some of those people. We had the opportunity to chat with a group of Trader Joe’s Crew Members in Chicago, and then we sat down with our CEO and President/Vice-CEO so they could answer some of the insightful questions that came out of that conversation. As Trader Joe’s continues to grow, it’s the Crew working in your neighborhood store who make the magic happen, every day. Have a listen, then make your shopping list and come say “Hi!” to the Crew at your Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S13 Enull · Mon, July 17, 2023
ICYMI: What is a Private Label, and Why Does Trader Joe's Use Private Labels
Private label? What on earth is that? A label you can’t see, a hidden tag, a marker wearing a mask? Perhaps unsurprisingly, “Private Label” is none of these things. What it IS is enormously important to what makes Trader Joe’s, well, Trader Joe’s. Listen in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S13 E64 · Mon, June 12, 2023
Episode 64: Trader Joe's Splendid Summertime Shopping List
This episode of Inside Trader Joe’s is dedicated to sandwiches and salads in the sun, snacks in the shade, frozen treats in the sand (seaside or lakefront, of course), and all manner of food fabulousness in between. In other words, we are 100% ready for summer. How ready? Oh, we’re Lemon Pesto ready. We’re Strawberry Lemonade Ice Bar ready. We’re S’Mores Ice Cream ready. Listen in, then come on in and stock up on all the super summertime stuff your neighborhood TJ’s has to offer. Transcript (PDF)
S13 Enull · Mon, May 15, 2023
ICYMI: Why is Trader Joe's a Bricks and Mortar Store
Why doesn’t Trader Joe’s have online shopping? Why don’t you deliver? The answer is, we believe the store is our brand, that what happens within the four walls of your neighborhood Trader Joe’s is a huge part of what makes Trader Joe’s special. Our business is built on people – the people who shop in our stores and the people who work in our stores – and a constant flow of new and exciting products, offered at excellent, everyday prices. In other words, we’re a bricks and mortar store on purpose, and with purpose. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S13 E63 · Mon, April 17, 2023
Trader Joe's Knack for Hacks
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re back at the hacks, with delicious and often unexpected ways to use Trader Joe’s products throughout the store. Pizza Dough and Biscuits on hand but not in the mood for Pizza or Biscuits? We’re here for you. We’re considering all the possible ways of using Everything But The Bagel Seasoning… what’s your favorite? Meals out of mezze? Yes. Got an empty jar from a favorite TJ’s product? You could recycle, but you can also reuse! And just wait ‘til you hear what we’re doing with pasta water… Transcript (PDF)
S13 E62 · Mon, March 13, 2023
It's a Spring Shopping List from Trader Joe's
The vernal equinox is near, days are getting longer, and we have high hopes for higher temperatures day by day. All these things point to spring’s arrival as surely as this latest shopping list episode of Inside Trader Joe’s. There are so many fun new products to try – from Bananas! Bananas! Chocolate (that’s one product, and it’s delish) and a Chromatic Celebration Cake (trust us here), to our most verdurous candle yet and a Mini Sheet Cake that delivers a punch of puckery pleasure… did we mention there’s So. Much. Good. Stuff? Have a listen, then make your list, for a trip to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s that’ll put a spring in your step. Transcript (PDF)
S13 E61 · Mon, February 27, 2023
The Trader Joe's Club
On this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we take you to a super-secret, underground, high school club – the Trader Joe’s Club! What, your high school didn’t have one? Neither did ours… but we found out about some high schools that do, and, well, how could we resist? We really couldn’t, so we sat down with some cool kids (it’s hip to say, cool, right?) to cover all things Trader Joe’s. Listen in… it’s totally bussin’. Transcript (PDF)
S12 E60 · Mon, January 23, 2023
Trader Joe's 14th Annual Customer Choice Awards
We’ve tallied the votes (all 18,000+ of them!), and the winners of the 14th Annual Trader Joe’s Customer Choice Awards have been decided. When it comes to sweets and desserts, what takes the cake? What’s the favorite for folks feeling snacky? And what do you love most overall when you walk our aisles? On this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re announcing this year’s winners, and shining a light on some old favorites being honored in a whole new way. Transcript (PDF)
S12 Enull · Mon, January 02, 2023
ICYMI: Why Doesn't Trader Joe's Have a Loyalty Program
We get this question all the time, and it’s a good one. The truth is, once you start to think about “loyalty programs,” you quickly realize there’s nothing in them to promote loyalty. They’re just ever-so-slightly-disguised ways to collect data about your purchases. We look at loyalty with a significantly different lens. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S12 E59 · Mon, December 26, 2022
Looking Forward, Looking Back, with Trader Joe's
Phew! What a year! The end of one year, the start of another… there’s a reason folks get reflective at this time of year. Trader Joe’s is no different, as it turns out. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re looking back at the year that was, and forward, to the year ahead. Stores have opened, Crew Members have been hired – and promoted! – and millions of meals have been shared with our neighbors… We’re excited about what’s to come, and we look forward to seeing you at your neighborhood TJ’s in 2023! Transcript (PDF)
S12 E58 · Mon, November 28, 2022
It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like a Trader Joe's Holiday Shopping List
Chestnuts (roasting on an open fire)? Check. Peppermint Hold the Cones? Check. Cedar Balsam Candles? Check. And check. This is a big, bold holiday season shopping list episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, filled with the fun and festive fare you count on us to deliver. Join us as we peruse the aisles and take a foray through the freezers, finding returning favorites and some exciting new discoveries along the way. What’s that? Carolers at the door? Check. Transcript (PDF)
S12 E57 · Mon, November 07, 2022
Episode 57: Trader Joe's Wine Wonderings
Wine makes people nervous. We get it. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Like the rest of your TJ’s shopping experience, we think buying wine should be a fun and feel like an adventure. So, when you go to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s looking for a bottle of wine, and you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for… don’t panic! There are knowledgeable Crew Members there who can help. They taste the wines, they know which wines taste great with which foods, and they’re always happy to make suggestions. We had the opportunity to chat with a couple of those folks, who shared bunches of information about how we approach wine at Trader Joe’s. Have a listen, then head to your TJ’s and find the ideal bottle of vino for that party next weekend, a gift for a special someone, or dinner tonight! Transcript (PDF)
S12 Enull · Mon, October 10, 2022
ICYMI: What's Up With Trader Joe's Parking Lots
If there’s a question we get more than “When are all the holiday products coming back?” it’s definitely “What’s up with your parking lots?” We get it. They’re small. Which kind of makes sense when you think about it. Which we do. A lot. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to find out everything you ever wanted to know (and let’s be honest, probably a whole lot more) about Trader Joe’s parking lots. Transcript (PDF)
S12 E56 · Mon, October 03, 2022
Episode 56: Inside the Trader Joe's Captains' Meeting 2022
Aloha shirts as far as the eye can see, new products for everyone to taste, and So. Much. Energy! It’s the Trader Joe’s Annual Captains’ Meeting, and you have a front row seat, so to speak. Have a listen to find out about our plans for the future, the return of Demo (yes!), your store Captain’s favorite product, and what the heck is a Golden Potsticker Award! Transcript (PDF) Golden Potsticker Award Winners: Store # Location 8 Fresno, CA 26 Hillcrest, San Diego, CA 46 Orange, CA 59 Santa Barbara, CA 82 Reno, NV 85 Glendale, AZ 100 San Francisco, CA 101 Fairfield, CA 135 Queen Anne Hill, WA 164 Spokane (North), WA 167 Albuquerque, NM 211 Templeton, CA 215 West Los Angeles, CA 249 San Juan Capistrano, CA 250 USC, CA 284 Summerlin (West), NV 404 Fort Worth, TX 460 Tulsa, OK 510 Boston (Back Bay), MA 519 Portland, ME 552 Oceanside, NY 559 Staten Island, NY 571 Bridgemarket, NY 637 Media, PA 654 Centreville, VA 657 <td cl
S11 Enull · Mon, September 19, 2022
ICYMI: Why Did Trader Joe's Discontinue My Favorite Product?
Ever walk into your neighborhood TJ’s to find your favorite product is no longer on the shelf? It happens to us, too! A big part of shopping at Trader Joe’s is finding new things to love, and because our stores are small, making room for those new favorites means some old standbys may have to make way. Tune in to the latest in our series of bite-sized episodes, ITJ ICYMI, to get the scoop. Transcript (PDF)
S11 E55 · Mon, September 12, 2022
Fall for Trader Joe's Autumn Extravaganza
Autumn is in the air… and your neighborhood Trader Joe’s is filled with the finest that fall has to offer – for a limited time, of course! In the mood for maple? Marvelous. Craving caramel apples and cinnamon rolls? What a coincidence; so are we! Sweet on squash? Super. Pining for pumpkin? Perfect timing! Listen in to the latest episode of Inside Trader Joe’s for all this and a gathering of wine, beer, and spirits that will lift the spirit of any gathering. Transcript (PDF)
S11 E54 · Mon, August 29, 2022
Trader Joe's Product Hacks, The Sequel
What’s the difference between a “hack” and a “recipe”? We honestly have no idea, but whether you call them “hacks” or “recipes,” we have some more to share. We heard from customers and Crew Members from around the country about fun, easy, delicious ways to enjoy so many Trader Joe’s products. A sweet use for pizza dough? Yes! Scallion pancakes as taco shells? Yes, please! A cake made with sparkling fruit juice? Excuse us while we head to the kitchen. We have some hacking to do… #traderjoesproducthacks Transcript (PDF) Cinnamon Monkey Bread Pizza Dough Hack As this is more of a hack than a recipe, think of these as guidelines rather than hard and fast rules. A little more of this, a little less of that… it’s gonna be good! Ingredients: 1 ball of fresh pizza dough 1 cup of brown sugar 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 stick of salted butter, melted (Optional but recommended: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract) Instructions: Remove dough from refrigerator 20-30 minutes before use and place on a lightly floured surface Preheat your oven to 350ºF Mix the cinnamon and sugar together in one bowl Pour the melted stick of butter into a separate bowl, mix in vanilla extract (optional) Divide dough into 1-inch round pieces – roll dough balls first in melted butter then in the cinnamon sugar mixture Layer coated dough balls in a lightly greased 9x5 loaf pan (can be doubled to fill a larger Bundt pan) Bake in the oven at 350ºF for 30-40min or until lightly browned and cooked through Let cool at least 15 minutes but best served when still warm To serve, flip the loaf pan on top of your serving platter of choice
S11 E53 · Mon, August 08, 2022
How to Make a Trader Joe's, Part Two
That empty building from Part One? It’s a whole lot less empty now. Crew Members are working hard, designing the look of the store – spoiler alert, it looks like its neighborhood! – from wall murals to shelf signs, stocking shelves with your favorite TJ’s products (and some new stuff you haven’t seen yet), and establishing relationships with community organizations focused on ending hunger, so when we open, we’re ready to be a neighborhood store in every possible way. We have a great Crew, in a fantastic location… so let’s open those doors on the Trader Joe’s in Parker, Colorado! Whew! Transcript (PDF)
S11 E52 · Mon, August 01, 2022
How to Make a Trader Joe's, Part One
Fade in on an empty building. Four walls, some windows, not much else. How does that empty space become a bustling neighborhood grocery store? It’s a good story, and one that involves a whole bunch of hard-working, super talented people. In Part One, we’ll talk to the folks who find the perfect location and the folks who get stuff built. We also get to chat with some Crew Members getting the store ready to welcome their neighbors. It’s a lot of work, and these folks are having a great time doing it. Have a listen, and look out for Part Two, coming next week to a podcast app near you. Transcript (PDF)
S11 E51 · Mon, June 13, 2022
Trader Joe's Spectacular Summertime Shopping List
Summertime… and the shopping is delicious… It really is. Our shelves are stocked with returning favorites like Jalapeño Limeade and Dill Pickle Mustard, plus exciting new arrivals like Jalapeño Lime Crunch and Seasoning in a (Dill) Pickle (we’re sensing a theme here). Discover a new favorite while you’re listening? Make haste to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, because like the season itself, many of these summertime products will only be around for a limited time. Check out the whole list: Brazil Nut Body Scrub Cashew Butter Cashews Cherries Dill Pickle Mustard Horchata Ice Cream Jalapeño Lime Crunch Jalapeño Limeade Nectarines Peaches Pineapple Sparkling Water Seasoning in a Pickle Seedless Watermelons Sparkling Pineapple Juice Beverage Strawberry Basil Vinaigrette Ube Ice Cream Ube Spread Watermelon & Peach Macarons Transcript (PDF)
S10 E50 · Mon, May 23, 2022
A Trader Joe's Journey from Portland (ME) to Portland (OR)
When we set out to produce a podcast, our goal was a five-part series to take listeners Inside Trader Joe’s , literally and figuratively. Now here we are, episode 50! In this episode, we take you truly inside , traveling to Trader Joe’s stores in Portland, Maine and Portland, Oregon, where we get the inside scoop about what makes Trader Joe’s a special place to shop and to work, from the folks who really know all the inside info – our Crew Members! Transcript (PDF)
S10 Enull · Thu, May 19, 2022
ICYMI What's It Like to Work at Trader Joe's?
We get questions all the time. Questions like, why are your parking lots so… unique? Why did you discontinue my favorite product? What’s it like to work at Trader Joe’s? We have this tendency to just assume people know this stuff, because we live it, every day. So we’re launching a series of mini episodes we’re calling ITJ ICYMI: Inside Trader Joe’s In Case You Missed It. For the first ICYMI, What’s It Like to Work at Trader Joe’s? Transcript (PDF)
S10 E49 · Mon, April 11, 2022
Trader Joe's Trips the Light Hacktastic
This is, without a doubt, our most hacktacular episode yet! What does that even mean? It means this episode is chock-full of inspired uses for your some of your favorite TJ’s products. How to make your flowers last longer and stand straighter… check. How to make simple meals in minutes using ingredients you might not have thought to put together… check. Delicious and unexpected dessert ideas… check, check, check! We’re sharing creative ideas shared with us by Trader Joe’s Crew Members from around the country… these folks know their stuff! Do you have favorite hacks for your favorite Trader Joe’s products? Share them with us at podcastquestions@traderjoes.com, and we may just feature them in a future Hacktastic episode. Transcript (PDF)
S10 E48 · Mon, March 14, 2022
Spring Has Sprung at Trader Joe's
Everyone loves a list, right? And if that list leads to deliciousness, then even better. Right? Yes. This episode of Inside Trader Joe’s delivers a shopping list packed with some of our favorite offerings for the season. From sparkling tea to serious wine, and custard tarts to truffle crunchies, spring is in full bloom in every aisle… Listen in and you’re sure to have a spring in your step as you spring into action and spring forward to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF) Video Link: How to Build a Choc-uterie Dessert Board Shopping List Sour Cream & Onion Rings Fancy Cheese Crunchies Spring Cupcake Mix Organic Poppyseed Dressing Grapefruit Scented Candle Retinol Night Serum When Life Gives You Lemons Make Ice Cream Portuguese Custard Tarts 4 Cheese Pastry Rolls Springle Jangle Ricotta and Lemon Zest Ravioli Grain Free Cheeseburger Dog Treats Sparkling White Tea w/ Pomegranate Trader Joe's Reserve Oak Knoll Merlot Trader Joe's Reserve Edna Valley Pinot Noir
S10 E47 · Mon, February 28, 2022
Trader Joe's Designs Delicious
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we get to chat with the folks who design the packages and labels for your favorite Trader Joe’s products, as well as one of the people who makes sure all the information on that package or label is accurate. Ever wonder where the inspiration for the design on the Instant Cold Brew Coffee jar came from? Whose pets are on the treat packages? Or who the heck decides what a serving size is? This, podcast friends, is the episode for you! Transcript (PDF)
S10 E46 · Mon, January 24, 2022
13th Annual Trader Joe's Customer Choice Awards
It’s awards season, and time for our products to walk the red carpet. The votes have been counted, and on this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, all the winners are revealed. Favorite Entree? Check. Vegan and Vegetarian faves? Check. Favorite Overall? Check. It. Out. Listen in to find out if your favorite is a winner, or just honored to be nominated! Transcript (PDF)
S9 E45 · Mon, January 10, 2022
Hummus a Few Bars with Trader Joe's
From the humble garbanzo bean, the unassuming chickpea, comes the most delicious of dips, hummus. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re humming our favorite tunes, and they’re all about hummus! Listen in as we get a little history of hummus, learn about the state of the hummus at TJ’s, and visit two of our trusted hummus suppliers to find out how the heck they make all that hummus – 85,000 pounds of Mediterranean Hummus a week? You bet your garbs! Transcript (PDF)
S9 E44 · Mon, December 27, 2021
Cheers to the Crew at Your Neighborhood Trader Joe's
As we wind down another year on the calendar, this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s is a celebration of the nearly 55,000 Crew Members in the 530 (and counting!) Trader Joe’s stores across the country. Their hard work and dedication make Trader Joe’s a favorite place to shop in neighborhoods from Portland, Oregon to Portland Maine, and San Diego to Miami. We’d like to raise a glass and say “Cheers!” to every Trader Joe’s Crew Member, in every store, every day. Transcript (PDF)
S9 E43 · Mon, November 29, 2021
The Most Wonderful Trader Joe's Shopping List
Holiday shopping? Don’t forget to stock up on stocking stuffers, gifts for wrapping, and treats for the most important person on your list… you! In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s , we’re decking the halls and walking the aisles of your neighborhood Trader Joe’s, shining the holiday spotlight on some new, limited-edition holiday selections, as well as some returning festive favorites. From wine to oatmeal and chocolate to Brussels sprouts, discovery is the name of the game if you’re looking to add fun and deliciousness to your holiday season. Transcript (PDF)
S9 E42 · Mon, November 08, 2021
The Long and Wine-ing Road to Trader Joe's
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re travelling to California’s wine country. Our journey takes us through the stunning Sonoma Valley, where we chat with some of the folks who make the wine you’ll find at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. We get up close and personal with some grapes and learn about the work that goes into turning those grapes into delightfully drinkable bottles of wine. And we uncover the secret behind all the great values you’ll find in our wine section (spoiler alert: it’s not actually a secret). Transcript (PDF)
S9 E41 · Mon, October 18, 2021
Value and the Supply Chain at Trader Joe's
Value – it’s always a good time to talk about value. Look around your neighborhood Trader Joe’s and you’ll see value on every shelf, every day. Those values don’t happen by accident; they’re the result of our Buying Philosophy in action. (Yes, we’re a grocery store with a philosophy.) What does that Buying Philosophy mean to you and how does it impact what you pay at the cash register? This episode of Inside Trader Joe’s goes inside the Buying Philosophy – why we do it, how it works, and most importantly, what it means for you at the cash register, every time you shop. Transcript (PDF)
S8 E40 · Mon, October 04, 2021
Trader Joe's Noodles Around with Pasta and Olives
If pasta is your passion and olives are what you live for, consider this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s a table set for you! We dive into the Mediterranean region in a conversation with an Italian pasta supplier; we get some good info on the state of pasta, olives, and olive oil on our grocery shelves, and we travel to California to chat with a producer of Extra Virgin Olive Oil crafted in the Golden State. You can get an inside look at how this particular EVOO is made – from harvest to table – on our YouTube channel. Transcript (PDF)
S8 E39 · Mon, September 13, 2021
A Trader Joe's Shopping List of Fabulous Fall Finds
Once again, we’re falling head over pumpkin for fall. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s you’ll get a sneak peek at some of our favorite new stuff, like Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce and Pumpkin Oat Beverage, and even some things that have no pumpkin at all (gasp!), like Butternut Mac & Cheese Bites and Maple Walnut Biscotti. Grab a pen and a piece of paper - you’re going to want to make a list. Transcript (PDF)
S8 E38 · Mon, June 28, 2021
A Trader Joe's Shopping List to Add Sparkle to Your Summer
Summer’s here, and the time is right, for shopping at Trader Joe’s. Whether you’re snacking, sipping, slathering, or sizzling at the barbecue, this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s has just the thing to satisfy your seasonal cravings. Returning faves like Key Lime Cookies & summer-fresh stone fruits take their place alongside new arrivals Brazil Nut Body Butter and Sparkling Green Tea with Pineapple. And we have advance scoop on soon-to-be-available Carolina Gold BBQ Chips and Garlic Bread Cheese. Have a listen and perhaps you’ll be dancin’ in the street on the way to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S8 E37 · Mon, May 03, 2021
Trader Joe's Spices Up Your Shopping List
Are you Team Spices or Team Spicy? On this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we make the case that you can serve both squads, with delicious results. A heated conversation with our resident seasoning alchemist (aka Spices Category Manager) reveals an abundance of seasonings from savory to spicy; and we challenge a Crew Member’s palate with Trader Joe’s products spanning the spicy spectrum. Transcript (PDF)
S8 E36 · Mon, April 05, 2021
As the Cheese Melts: Trader Joe's "Professor Matt" Tells Us About That
Have you ever thought about why cheese melts the way it does? Or why some cheeses melt differently than others? And further to that, why some cheeses don’t really melt at all, but just get a little soft? On this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, our very own “Professor Matt” explains it all to you, with a little help from our resident cheese expert, Kim. From enzymes to acid, and fresh cheese to aged, we bring you the art and science behind one of the best ways to enjoy “milk’s leap toward immortality,” cheese. Stop what you’re doing and melt with us. Transcript (PDF)
S7 E35 · Mon, March 08, 2021
A Trader Joe's Shopping List to Liven Up Your Spring Eating
Spring is just around the corner, and while some focus on spring cleaning, we instead focus on our favorite seasonal activity, spring eating. (Actually, that's our favorite activity every season.) There are new products arriving in our stores every day, from sweet treats like Chocolate & Peanut Butter Joe Joe's to savory delights like Oven Baked Cheese Bites with Tomato and Chili. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe's, we present a baker's dozen of our new favorites that are sure to put a spring in your step. Transcript (PDF)
S7 E34 · Mon, February 15, 2021
11 (or more!) Trader Joe’s Fail-Safe Freezer Finds for Dinner (and more!)
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we step into the icy wonderland of Trader Joe’s freezer case and find a treasure trove of deliciousness ready to become dinner in minutes. From powerhouses like Mandarin Orange Chicken and Cauliflower Gnocchi to newer arrivals like Breaded Fried Ravioli and Branzino Fillets, there’s always something easy to prepare and even easier to eat. And the delights don’t stop at dinner… you’ll find options for breakfast, appetizers, and especially dessert. Ice Cream (and more!), anyone? Transcript (PDF)
S7 E33 · Mon, January 25, 2021
Trader Joe's 12th Annual Customer Choice Awards Winners
The votes have been cast, the ballots have been tallied, and the winners have been verified! Inside this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s we reveal the results of the 12 th Annual Customer Choice Awards. From Favorite Cheese to Best Beverage and Favorite Trader Joe’s Product Overall, this awards show has everything other awards shows have, and has been proven to be 242% more delicious. Transcript (PDF)
S7 E32 · Mon, January 11, 2021
Trader Joe's Seeds the Conversation About Plants & Plant-Based Products
Some might say everything’s coming up roses, but why stop there? In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we take a deep dive into all the plants and flowers, with an update on what’s changed in the world of greens and blooms over the last year. We also get some insights into the world of plant-based products, the constant evolution of vegan foods, and even some innovations in plant-based packaging! Transcript (PDF)
S7 E31 · Mon, December 07, 2020
Celebrating the Holidays with Trader Joe's Crew – And Cookies!
While the holiday season looks a little different this year, the Crew at Trader Joe’s are finding ways to celebrate the best of the season. In this episode, we chat with Crew Members from around the country about their favorite holiday traditions and holiday products at Trader Joe’s. Sparkling wines, multiple hot cocoa options, a cauliflower-centric take on classic latkes, charcuterie for days, candies, and of course cookies… beware, you will want cookies when this one is done! Transcript (PDF)
S6 E30 · Mon, November 23, 2020
Trader Joe's Holiday Shopping List
The holiday season is upon us, and your neighborhood Trader Joe's is bursting with inventive, intriguing, incredibly inviting food and drink (and soap!) to fill your shopping cart. In this Mini Shopping List episode of Inside Trader Joe's, we treat you to some of our new favorites you'll find in stores only during this holiday season. Have a listen... and have a pen & paper at hand – you'll want to be sure to add some of these to your shopping list. Transcript (PDF)
S6 E29 · Mon, September 14, 2020
Trader Joe's Fall Products to (Pumpkin) Spice Up Your Shopping List
Pumpkin, pumpkin, everywhere, good enough to eat! That could be our motto here at Trader Joe’s – at least in autumn. In this short-shopping-list episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re diving deep into Pumpkin Season, with new pumpkin-forward products you’ll find throughout the store. Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Slims? Check. Turkey & Pumpkin Mole Burrito? Sure! Spicy Pumpkin Curry Simmer Sauce? Oh. Yes. And so much more. If your shopping list is feeling a little “same old-same old,” have a listen and discover some great new stuff you’ll find only at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S6 E28 · Mon, August 10, 2020
Trader Joe's Takes You Inside The Tasting Panel Today
Even in these times of constant change, there’s one thing that’s remained constant, and that’s our commitment to innovating and developing new products to bring to our stores. We’ve made some adjustments to the way our Tasting Panel meets – who knew video conference tasting could be a thing? – but the basic function of the panel remains the same today as it’s ever been… making sure we’re bringing you delicious tastes from around the globe, and offering them at great values, every day. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re taking you inside the Tasting Panel, in today’s format. We’ll talk about how the changes have impacted product development, and we’ll hear about some new initiatives we’ve put in place to help us find vendors who might not have had access to our Tasting Panel process in days past. Transcript (PDF)
S6 E27 · Mon, June 29, 2020
Trader Joe's Talks Beer and Beyond
Whether you’re sipping from a glass or swigging from a can, beer may be the ultimate summertime beverage. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we take you deep into the history of beer, and jump into the present with conversations about the beer you’ll find at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s – including a discussion with one of our longtime brewery partners. Of course, when drinking beer, one must have snacks, so we have some snack pairings to suggest as well. How best to enjoy this episode? We suggest you pour your favorite brew, fill a bowl with snacks, sit back, and have a listen. Transcript (PDF)
S6 E26 · Wed, June 17, 2020
New Trader Joe's Products to Add to Your Shopping List
If you’ve been shopping from the same old list week after week, or even month after month, you might not know that even now, Trader Joe’s is introducing great new products every week. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s – a Shopping-List Short – we’re talking about a bunch of new things that have come in recently, and even more that are about to arrive at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Because even when life is unpredictable, one thing you can always count on is Trader Joe’s delivering great values on delicious stuff you won’t find anywhere else. Transcript (PDF)
S5 E25 · Fri, May 01, 2020
Trader Joe's Update on Covid-19: Our Supply Chain & Sharing with Our Neighbors
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we’re bringing you more information about how we’re responding to Covid-19, both in our stores and throughout our supply chain. The activity in our stores has been constantly evolving over the last few months, from packed aisles to social-distancing. So, too, has the volume of products flowing in and out of our stores. We’ll talk about how that in-store activity has impacted our supply chain, and how we’ve continued – and even strengthened – our commitment to being a good neighbor, through our longstanding Neighborhood Shares program. Transcript (PDF)
S5 E24 · Mon, April 20, 2020
The Coffee Cuppers' Guide to Trader Joe's
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s , we’re talking joe, as in, that cup of joe you’re drinking right now. We pay a visit to one of our longtime coffee suppliers, folks we’ve been doing business with for nearly 40 years! We spend some time with the folks who find the special, limited edition coffees you’ll find in our stores throughout the year. And we try to find the secret to what makes the perfect cup… spoiler alert… it appears this is different for every coffee drinker. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or a casual cupper, there’s something here for everyone. Just like the coffee section at your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. Transcript (PDF)
S5 E23 · Thu, April 09, 2020
Trader Joe's Update on COVID-19
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe's, we're bringing you an update about how we're responding to COVID-19. These are not ordinary times. In fact, every day, it seems like our definition of unprecedented changes. What will never change is our commitment to you, our Customers, and to our Crew working in your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. We remain focused on making it possible for you to buy the groceries you need, as well as ensuring the safest possible environment for Crew and Customers at all times. Episode 23 Transcript (PDF)
S5 E22 · Wed, March 04, 2020
Trader Joe's Beauty Routine is Pretty...
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we don’t talk about food. Nope. Instead, we’re talking about skin care, hair care, self-care… candles, cleansers, & scrubs… Known in the biz as HABA (for Health and Beauty Aids) and HH (for Household), this category of stuff at Trader Joe’s may be small, but it sure is mighty. We’ll take you inside what makes a good Trader Joe’s HABA product, reveal what all those complicated-sounding ingredients are all about, and chat with a TJ-HABA Super User who has some great tips for making the most of your HABA dollars! And, we’ll reveal some super-exciting soon-to-arrive HABA products that will have your skin smiling as summer approaches. Transcript (PDF)
S5 E21 · Mon, January 27, 2020
The Chocolate Lovers' Guide to Trader Joe's
Did someone say chocolate? Why yes, yes we did! In fact, we have lots to say about chocolate – an entire episode worth. In episode 21 of Inside Trader Joe’s, we take you deep into the heart of chocolate, revealing the answers to such mysteries as: What are all the percentages about? What makes white chocolate chocolate? Does all chocolate have sugar? Is there anything Trader Joe’s hasn’t covered in chocolate? We’re also revealing the winners of this year’s Customer Choice Awards – the results may surprise you! Episode 21 Transcript (PDF)
S4 E20 · Mon, December 09, 2019
Cheese, Cheese, and More Cheese with Trader Joe's
Cheese makes the world go ‘round. Or, at the very least, cheese often comes in rounds, and we’d go to the ends of the earth to get our hands on some good cheese. In this episode, we take you on a journey through the world of cheese, going around the globe and back again to your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. We spend some time with an English cheesemaker, we talk with a local TJ’s Crew Member who loves cheese as much as we do, and we learn about which wines pair best with certain cheeses, and we find out about a few special cheeses you’ll find in our stores during the holiday season. Episode 20 Transcript (PDF)
S4 E19 · Mon, November 18, 2019
The Holiday Show
The holidays are finally here! We pine for this season all year long, and we’re constantly at work developing and refining our holiday product lineup. In this episode, we’ll introduce you to some of the new delights you’ll find in your neighborhood Trader Joe’s this holiday season, we’ll learn about some of our Crew’s holiday traditions, we’ll get some table-scaping advice from our resident flowers and plants authority, and we’ll share some songs in the spirit of the season… as only Trader Joe’s could present them! Episode 19 Transcript (PDF)
S4 E18 · Mon, October 14, 2019
Our Spice Trade
Whether you're shopping for staple spices or in search of the next big thing, the spice section at Trader Joe's is the place to be. In this episode of Inside Trader Joe's, we take you on a journey through our own spice trade. Along the way, we'll learn a bit about everything from garlic to cinnamon, and Everything But The Bagel to... well, have a listen to find out what's coming next. Episode 18 Transcript PDF
S4 E17 · Mon, September 16, 2019
Live from the Annual Captains' Meeting
In this episode of Inside Trader Joe’s, we come to you live (well, we recorded it live) from the Trader Joe’s Annual Captains' Meeting. Every year, we gather every Captain (Manager) from every Trader Joe’s across the country together, in one place, to let them know where we’re going, say thanks for all the great things that have happened over the last year, and to give them some useful information to bring back to their stores. We’ll hear about some delicious new products (even for pets!) coming soon to a Trader Joe’s near you, and we’ll have a little fun with our Captains along the way. Episode 17 Transcript (PDF)
S4 E16 · Mon, July 22, 2019
Produce
In this episode, we’re digging deep into the world of Produce. Chances are, you don’t spend so much time thinking about your greens, your berries, your stone fruits, your avocados… (well, you probably do think about avocados quite a bit). The thing is, we spend loads of time thinking about all of it, so all you have to think about is what looks good when you walk into your neighborhood Trader Joe’s. We find out what it takes to ensure every one of our 488 stores gets the best produce we can find, from all around the world; we talk packaging, and steps we’re taking to reduce our produce packaging; and we’ll answer the burning question… what’s more popular, fruit or veggies? Episode 16 Transcript (PDF)
S3 E15 · Mon, June 24, 2019
You Asked. We Answered.
In this episode, we’re tackling the questions YOU (our listeners) asked. From the pretty straightforward “How do you decide what to sell?” and “How do you know what your customers want?” to the more philosophical “Why don’t you have WiFi?” and “Why not sell your products online?” We collected your questions and gathered some super knowledgeable Crew Members to help us answer them. Tune in to find out, once and for all, why we don’t carry diapers, and why we do plan to keep introducing limited availability products. Episode 15 Transcript (PDF)
S3 E14 · Mon, May 20, 2019
Why Is Everyone So Nice?
We get a lot of questions here at Trader Joe's; perhaps surprisingly, by far the most common question has nothing to do with the things we sell or the locations of our stores. The question we get the most is, without a doubt, "Why is everyone so nice?" In this episode we take you inside Trader Joe's to find out the answer. Come with us to a Trader Joe's store in Chicago, and to a session of Trader Joe's University (yep, that's a thing). Join in on our chat with some of the people responsible for finding the great Crew Members you encounter in our stores. Discover some of our Crew's favorite TJ's products. It'll be nice. We promise. Episode 14 Transcript (PDF)
S3 E13 · Mon, April 08, 2019
The Plants & Flowers Edition
It's the episode where we talk about the abundant flowers and plants you'll find at your neighborhood Trader Joe's. We travel the world in search of the most beauteous blooms and festive flowers, and we bring them to you at prices that really define value. How on earth do we do it? Have a listen. Got a question you'd really like to ask the folks who make things happen here at TJ's? Send it to us at podcastquestions@traderjoes.com . We'll use as many questions as we can in an upcoming episode of Inside Trader Joe's. Episode 13 Transcript (PDF)
S3 E12 · Mon, March 04, 2019
Frozen. The Foods
Come with us on a delicious journey through the freezer case at Trader Joe's. Hear how frozen foods can be fresher than the "fresh" foods; come along as we sample some of our Customers' favorite frozen finds at a neighborhood Trader Joe's; find out about some new treats coming soon to a Trader Joe's near you. Along the way, we'll share some info about how long frozen food keeps in your freezer (a good long time, it turns out), and the very best way to prepare our much-loved Cauliflower Gnocchi. If you're a frozen foods fanatic, or even if you're more fickle about freezer fare, this episode of Inside Trader Joe's will leave you hungry for more. (Figuratively and literally, we hope) Episode 12 Transcript (PDF)
S3 E11 · Mon, February 04, 2019
Sustainibility
Our approach to sustainability is simple. We all want to leave the planet a better place than we found it. At Trader Joe's, we're working hard to do just that, in part by reimagining how we approach packaging in our stores. We've eliminated certain types of packaging, we're reducing other types of packaging, and we're taking steps to remove more than a million pounds of plastic over the next year alone! We're going to the store, to a recycling plant, and to a next-generation manufacturing facility dedicated to making a positive impact, one plastic bottle at a time. Episode 11 Transcript (PDF)
S2 E10 · Mon, December 17, 2018
Here We Grow
At Trader Joe's, we are focused on growing, every day – with every product, in every store. We're opening new stores, hiring new Crew Members, meeting new Customers, and developing new products. Whew! In this episode, we talk about finding new store locations, we chat with customers at one of our original East Coast stores, and we look forward to some delicious new products coming to your neighborhood Trader Joe's in the year ahead. Episode 10 Transcript (PDF)
S2 E9 · Tue, November 13, 2018
Around the World in 80 Trader Joe's Products (Give or Take)
When we say we travel the world in search of great products for our customers, we really mean it! In this episode, come along with us as we circumnavigate the globe, finding the WOW in locations around the world, from South Korea to Southern California, with stops in places like New Zealand, Thailand, the Republic of Georgia, Puerto Rico, and so many more! Episode 9 Transcript (PDF)
S2 E8 · Tue, October 16, 2018
'Tis The Season
It's beginning to look a lot like the holidays at Trader Joe's! How do we come up with all the great holiday products you'll find at Trader Joe's every year? How long does it take to make all that delicious stuff come to life? What's new this holiday season? And did you know Dog Advent Calendars are a thing? Come Inside Trader Joe's and we'll help you get into the holiday spirit. Ho Ho Ho ! Episode 8 Transcript (PDF)
S2 E7 · Mon, September 24, 2018
We're Nuts About Wine and Cheese
Trader Joe’s has been selling nuts, wine, and cheese since our even-humbler beginnings. In this episode of “Inside Trader Joe’s,” we explain which nuts our customers are the most nutty about. We recommend some cheeses you may not have tried. And we reveal which wines are, we believe, the best in the store – at any price. Episode 7 Transcript (PDF)
S2 E6 · Fri, September 07, 2018
Quality
When it comes to quality, Trader Joe’s sets a high bar… way above what the law requires. In this episode, we explain what’s in the food, what’s not, and what will never be. So if you’re avoiding artificial flavors, added sugar, GMOs, or MSG, or think maybe you should , this episode is for you. Also, a new “mask” that could be fun for Halloween, and just happens to be great for moisturizing year round. Episode 6 Transcript (PDF)
S1 E5 · Tue, May 01, 2018
Please Won't You Be My Neighborhood Store
Sometime, someday, you may need a little help from a neighbor. Millions of us do. Find out how we try to be good neighbors in every one of the 475 neighborhoods we serve. Then, honest answers to some of the toughest Customer questions we receive. Like, “Why did you drop my favorite product?” and “What’s up with the parking lot?!” Finally, we peer into our crystal ball to see the future of Trader Joe’s – come along for the ride and join our shopping adventure! Episode 5 Transcript (PDF)
S1 E4 · Tue, May 01, 2018
The Store Is Our Brand
Oh sure, we could sell your favorite Trader Joe’s products online, but that’s not who we are. We could collect data about you, but that’s really not who we are. We strive to make shopping at Trader Joe’s an enjoyable experience, a fun adventure. For many, a Trader Joe’s store has long been the place to buy wine, and they ask us, “How do you do it – offer such great wines at such great prices?” We’ll show you the secret on a trip to Napa Valley, California. And why are Trader Joe’s Crew Members so happy, anyway? The answer is surprisingly simple. Also, the inspirational advice that one customer gave TJ’s CEO. Episode 4 Transcript (PDF)
S1 E3 · Tue, May 01, 2018
Informative and Seriously Not Too Serious
Informative and Seriously Not Too Serious – That’s always our goal at Trader Joe’s. We want our Crew Members and Customers to find it easy and fun to explore our stores, discovering everything from unique international fare and American basics, to vegan, to gluten-free, and low carb options. We’ll explain why Trader Joe’s Fearless Flyer has been called “a cross between MAD magazine and Consumer Reports.” And we’ll try some delicious bites at the Demo Station, because the best way to be informed is to taste for yourself. We bravely reveal some of our biggest product failures. And we ask our Crew Members the important question, “How many Hawaiian shirts do you own?” Episode 3 Transcript (PDF)
S1 E2 · Tue, May 01, 2018
It's About Values
At Trader Joe’s, values aren’t just great deals on great products. They’re also the values we live by, every day in every neighborhood store. We’ll share the ways we put those values into practice when we take you inside our (top-secret) Tasting Panel, where decisions are being made about what products to put on Trader Joe’s shelves. Then, Joe himself (yes, there is a Trader Joe) helps explain how it all began… including why we wear those oh-so-stylish Hawaiian shirts. Episode 2 Transcript (PDF)
S1 E1 · Tue, May 01, 2018
It's About The Products
People can’t stop tasting them and talking about them. What makes Trader Joe’s products so different? How does an idea go from being one of our new discoveries to one of yours? Meet the person with the best job at Trader Joe’s (or maybe anywhere!), traveling the world in search of new flavors. What went wrong (and turned out right) when we introduced Mandarin Orange Chicken, among our most popular products ever. How a customer got a laugh from our CEO and changed the way we sell bananas. What’s NOT in Trader Joe’s products? Episode 1 Transcript (PDF)
Trailer · Mon, April 23, 2018
Inside Trader Joe's Trailer
Here's a quick taste of Inside Trader Joe's, a new 5-part series coming May 1, 2018, from the folks at Trader Joe's. There's no other store like Trader Joe's. Now you can go behind-the-scenes to find out why Trader Joe's is... Trader Joe's. Trailer Transcript (PDF)
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