The Fresh CrEd

The Future of Agriculture: Expert Perspectives with Lorren Walker

Welcome to another episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast! Today, we're excited to have Mr. Lorren Walker, President and CEO of Elias Walker, and former Chief of Staff at USDA Ag Marketing Services. With a stellar career in agricultural policy, Lorren has been pivotal in shaping the regulations that keep our food supply safe and sustainable.In this episode, Lorren shares his journey from his early days in food policy in Washington, D.C., to leading a top-tier consulting firm. We dive deep into the importance of advocacy, the intricacies of the farm bill, and the critical role of fresh produce in schools. Recorded live at IFPA's Washington Conference, this conversation provides unique insights into the agricultural sector's challenges and opportunities.Special thanks to our sponsors for this episode: Cactus Packaging Supplies, Equifruit, Corner Image Packaging, Sunfed, and IFCO. Your support helps us bring these important conversations to our listeners.Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion that’s perfect for industry professionals, growers, and anyone passionate about the future of fresh produce. And remember, subscribe to The Fresh CrEd Podcast to stay updated with our latest episodes!https://linktr.ee/TheFreshCrEd#agriculture #farming #farmlife #sustainableagriculture #WashingtonDC

From Farm to Table: Managing Labor Costs with Technology

🌞 How is the produce industry coping with extreme weather? 🌞Join Craig Slate and Matt Mandel on this episode of the Credible Vegetable Report as they break down the latest updates affecting the produce world. From the impacts of Hurricane Beryl and heatwaves in the Southeast and Pacific coastal areas to the ongoing drought challenges faced by Texas growers, we’ve got it all covered.📈 What’s in this episode:00:01:30 Weather Watch: Hurricane Beryl projections, heat advisories, and drought impacts.00:10:00 Food Safety Alert: Listeria outbreak in New York affecting fresh spinach.00:15:00 Market Insights: Rabobank BBQ Index and its implications for 4th of July celebrations.00:20:00 Technological Innovations: How robotic harvesting is revolutionizing the industry in Kent, England.00:25:00 Crop Updates: Promising news from Ohio growers.🔗 Links and Resources:National Weather Service Meteorologists projections: https://www.usatoday.com/Solata Foods LLC Spinach Recall: FDA Spinach Recall Information https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/solata-foods-recalls-fresh-spinach-and-spinach-products-due-possible-health-riskCommercial Robotic Harvesting: Dogtooth Technologieshttps://www.dogtooth.techFollow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook!https://linktr.ee/TheFreshCrEd📸 Image Credits:Weather map: Credit USA TodayRobotic harvesting: Credit Dogtooth Technologies Limited👍 Enjoyed the episode? Like, comment, and subscribe for more updates!🔔 Stay Connected: Click the bell icon to get notified about our latest videos!#ProduceIndustry #WeatherImpact #FoodSafety #RoboticHarvesting #AgricultureTechnology

Post-COVID Economic Impact on Agriculture with Richard Kottmeyer

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, we are honored to welcome back Richard Kottmeyer, a renowned global thought leader in agribusiness and ag tech. Richard shares his expert insights on:- The economic effects of COVID-19 on agriculture- Changes in consumer behavior towards fresh produce- The role of AI and technology in the future of farming- Predictions for the future of family farms and corporate agriculture- The critical importance of policy changes in immigration and technologyTune in for a comprehensive discussion that covers the challenges and opportunities in the agri-business world today.A special thank you to our title sponsor, Cactus Packing Supplies, and our other sponsors Equifruit, Corner Image Packaging, Sunfed, and IFCO.Watch the episode or connect with us here!: https://linktr.ee/TheFreshCrEd#Podcast #Agriculture #Economics #FreshProduce #Innovation #PostCOVID---**Connect with The Fresh CrEd:**Linktree: https://linktr.ee/TheFreshCrEd**Sponsors:**🌵 Cactus Packing Supplies: sales@cactuspacks.com | 956-369-2055🍌 Equifruit📦 Corner Image Packaging🌞 Sunfed📦 IFCO

Produce Industry on the Brink? Labor Shortages, Water Crises, and Trade Tensions

Join us for a compelling episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast, proudly sponsored by Corner Image Pkg. This week, we sit down with Dante Galeazzi and Lance Jungmeyer, two prominent figures in the produce industry, recorded live at the Washington Conference. Discover why these critical issues matter to you as a consumer, producer, or industry stakeholder.What's Inside This Episode:Tomato Suspension Agreement:Understand how the Tomato Suspension Agreement could affect the prices and availability of your favorite produce items, and why it's crucial for the U.S. and Mexican markets.Labor Challenges:Learn why labor shortages in agriculture might lead to higher costs and reduced supply of fresh produce, and the urgent need for reform in the H-2A visa program.Water Crisis:Explore how severe water shortages in key agricultural regions impact the food supply chain, and what innovative solutions are being considered to ensure sustainable water resources.Industry Insights:Gain valuable perspectives on how these issues impact both producers and consumers, and the steps needed to ensure a stable and prosperous agricultural sector.Engaging Discussions:Hear Dante and Lance share their expert insights, backed by years of experience, as they navigate these complex topics and advocate for meaningful change.Special Thanks:We extend our gratitude to our title sponsor, Corner Image Pkg, and our other sponsors: Equifruit, Cactus Packaging Supplies, Sunfed, and IFCO for their invaluable support in making this episode possible.Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that highlights the critical issues and future of the fresh produce industry. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCETk4G_CQY_5ChS25CYZRGwInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefreshcred/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fresh-cred🌐 Visit Our Website: https://www.thefreshcred.com#TheFreshCrEd #Podcast #Agriculture #ProduceIndustry #TomatoSuspensionAgreement #LaborReform #WaterCrisis #DanteGaleazzi #LanceJungmeyer #WashingtonConference #CornerImagePkg

Farm Bill Insights: Cathy Burns on the Future of Fresh Produce

Join us for an insightful episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast as we sit down with Cathy Burns, CEO & President of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA). Recorded live at the Washington Conference hosted by IFPA, Cathy shares her expertise on the critical issues shaping the fresh produce industry today.What's Inside This Episode:Advocacy in Action: Learn about the importance of advocacy in Congress and how the IFPA is driving legislative support for the fresh produce industry.Farm Bill Focus: Dive into the challenges and significance of the Farm Bill, and why it's crucial for the future of agriculture.Health Innovations: Discover the transformative potential of produce prescriptions and their impact on public health.Industry Insights: Hear Cathy's perspective on the current state and future of specialty crops, and the ongoing efforts to secure greater investment.We extend our gratitude to our partners for their invaluable support in making this episode possible.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the fresh produce industry and the dedicated efforts of the IFPA. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions!🔗 Useful Links: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thefreshcred/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/99338034 🌐 Visit Our Website for more episodes and updates: https://www.thefreshcred.com#ProduceIndustry #AgricultureAdvocacy #FarmBill #HealthInnovation #IFPA #WashingtonConference

Transforming Farming with AI: The Born by Unispice Story

Join us for an eye-opening episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast as we explore the cutting-edge techniques transforming the produce industry with Alan and Christopher Safieh from Born, a division of Unispice. Discover how they are harnessing AI and regenerative agriculture to create a more sustainable and predictable food supply. Learn how their innovative approach can significantly impact the future of farming and food security.What's Inside This Episode:Agriculture Revolution: Explore how Born is using AI and data to transform farming into a precise and predictable science.Sustainable Innovations: Dive into their commitment to regenerative agriculture and the remarkable environmental benefits.Predictive Farming: Understand how their advanced technology ensures consistent supply and quality, reducing waste and inefficiency.Personal Journeys: Hear the inspiring stories of Alan and Christopher Safieh and their passion for driving change in the produce industry.We extend our gratitude to our partners Born Farms, Art MX, Mucci Farms, Sev-Rend, Santos International, 4Earth Farms, Sunfed, Zubelle Industries, IFCO, and our beverage sponsor, Tehuacán, for their invaluable support in making this event possible.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the produce industry and the experiences that shape its leaders. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions!🔗 Useful Links:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1j9dfxbFMDhVdrsoCdQCCuApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fresh-cred/id1566145559Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefreshcred/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-fresh-cred-51ab69234/🌐 Visit Our Website for more episodes and updates: https://www.thefreshcred.com#ProduceIndustry #AgricultureInnovation #Sustainability #RegenerativeAgriculture #BornFarms #Unispice"

Family Business Success: Mark Santos on Santos International’s Journey

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Santos of Santos International. Mark shares the incredible journey of his family business from its beginnings to becoming a leader in the customs brokerage and cold storage industry. Learn about the challenges and triumphs they've faced over 50 years, the secrets to their success, and Mark’s exclusive insights on the current trends and future of the produce industry.What's Inside This Episode:Family Business Legacy: Discover the rich history of Santos International and how it evolved from a small operation to a significant player in the industry.Industry Insights: Gain valuable insights into the current trends, challenges, and future outlook of the produce logistics sector.Personal Commitment: Hear about the personal dedication and hard work that drive Santos International's success.Expansion and Growth: Learn about their strategic expansions in McAllen and Laredo and the importance of cold storage in their operations.We extend our gratitude to our partners Born Farms, Art MX, Mucci Farms, Sev-Rend, Santos International, 4Earth Farms, Sunfed, Zubelle Industries, IFCO, and our beverage sponsor, Tehuacán, for their invaluable support in making this event possible.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the produce industry and the experiences that shape its leaders. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions!🔗 Useful Links:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1j9dfxbFMDhVdrsoCdQCCuApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fresh-cred/id1566145559Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefreshcred/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-fresh-cred-51ab69234/🌐 Visit Our Website for more episodes and updates: https://www.thefreshcred.com#VivaFreshExpo #ProduceIndustry #CustomsBrokerage #ColdStorage #FamilyBusiness #IndustryInsights"

Adapting to Change: Farmers on the Frontline | The Credible Vegetable Report

Join Craig Slate and Dustin Blank of Farmer's Alliance in this insightful episode of "The Credible Vegetable Report" as they explore the crucial issues and trends impacting the vegetable market in spring 2024. Dive deep into the discussions on weather challenges, labor costs, market dynamics, and evolving consumer habits that are reshaping the agricultural industry.🌟 Why Watch?Gain expert insights into the pressing issues affecting the vegetable market, from severe weather impacts to labor cost challenges. This episode offers valuable information for industry professionals, farmers, marketers, and anyone interested in the future of agriculture and food trends.What’s Covered:🌪️ Storms & Crop Damage:Severe Weather Impacts: Craig and Dustin discuss the recent storms in Georgia and Texas, detailing how extreme weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rainfall, have affected vegetable crops like squash and peppers.Recovery and Outlook: Learn about the immediate effects of the storms on crop yields and the strategies farmers are employing to recover and protect their future harvests.💼 Labor Costs in Agriculture:Rising Labor Costs: The conversation delves into the increasing labor costs due to regulatory changes and the reliance on the H-2A visa program for farm labor.Operational Challenges: Dustin shares insights into how labor management has become a critical aspect of farming operations, impacting everything from production to profitability.📊 Market Trends:Vegetable Market Analysis: An in-depth look at the current state of the markets for cucumbers, bell peppers, squash, and Roma tomatoes. The discussion includes recent price trends, supply chain disruptions, and predictions for market movements in the coming months.Consumer Demand Shifts: Insights into how consumer preferences have shifted towards more fresh produce and the implications for market demand and pricing.👨‍🌾 Consumer Habits:Long-Term Trends: Exploration of how consumer buying habits have evolved over the past 20 years, with a notable increase in the consumption of fresh vegetables.Market Implications: Discussion on how these changing habits are influencing farming practices, marketing strategies, and overall market dynamics.🔍 Key Takeaways:Adaptation Strategies: Practical advice for farmers on adapting to weather challenges and managing rising labor costs.Market Insights: Data-driven analysis and forecasts for key vegetable markets.Consumer Trends: Understanding the shifts in consumer behavior and how to leverage these trends for business growth.👇 Engage With Us:Have you noticed any changes in your vegetable-buying habits? Share your experiences and questions in the comments below! We love hearing from our viewers and fostering meaningful discussions.Useful Links:Farmer's Alliance: https://www.farmers-alliance.comProduceIQ Graphs: https://www.produceiq.com/index🔔 Subscribe and Stay Updated:Don’t miss out on our latest episodes! Subscribe and hit the bell icon to stay informed with "The Credible Vegetable Report."#VegetableMarket #AgricultureTrends #MarketDynamics #HealthyEating #2024Trends #FoodIndustry #Farming #Crops #H2A

Building a Career at H-E-B: Jaime Buentello’s 26 Years

Join us for an engaging episode of The Fresh Cred Podcast, recorded live at the 2024 Viva Fresh Expo in Houston, Texas! Dive into our conversation with Jaime Buentello, H-E-B's Business Development Manager, as he shares his 26-year journey with H-E-B and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s operations and culture.What's Inside This Episode:Jaime's Journey: Learn about Jaime's path from Del Rio, Texas to his current role at H-E-B, including his early days working in retail and his progression through various roles in the company.Career Insights: Discover valuable career advice and insights into what it takes to succeed in the produce industry, including the importance of face-to-face interactions and building trust.Company Culture: Hear about H-E-B’s approach to employee development and the emphasis on cross-functional experience to build knowledgeable leaders.Personal Stories: Enjoy personal anecdotes from Jaime’s life, including his love for football, music, and family.We extend our gratitude to our partners Born Farms, Art MX, Mucci Farms, Sev-Rend, Santos International, 4Earth Farms, Sunfed, Zubelle Industries, IFCO, and our beverage sponsor, Tehuacán, for their invaluable support in making this event possible.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the produce industry and the experiences that shape its leaders. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions!🔗 Useful Links:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1j9dfxbFMDhVdrsoCdQCCuApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fresh-cred/id1566145559Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefreshcred/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-fresh-cred-51ab69234/🌐 Visit Our Website for more episodes and updates: https://www.thefreshcred.com#VivaFreshExpo #ProduceIndustry #BusinessDevelopment #HEB #CareerJourney #IndustryInsights

Revolutionizing the Roots: GrubMarket’s Tech-Driven Transformation of the Food Supply Chain

Who is Mike Xu, and what is GrubMarket? Discover the answers this week on The Fresh CrEd. Join us for an exclusive interview with Mike Xu, CEO of GrubMarket, as we delve deep into his journey and the transformative impacts of his company on the food industry. This episode features Pamela Riemenschneider from The Produce Reporter, who will guide the conversation by bringing forth key industry questions to Mike, offering listeners a clearer view of the challenges and innovations shaping the food sector.Join Pamela and Craig Slate, CEO of Sunfed, as they sit down with Mike at GrubMarket's headquarters in San Francisco. Together, they will explore how strategic acquisitions and ground-up technological innovations are not only reshaping the food supply chain but also setting new standards for what we should expect from our food systems.Tune in to gain unique insights into how embracing technology can lead to greater #efficiency and #sustainability. This conversation is more than an interview; it's a window into the future of food distribution.Don’t forget to subscribe and follow The Fresh CrEd to stay ahead of the curve in technology and tradition. For more information and to listen to the episode, visit our website: https://www.thefreshcred.comListen to the full episode here and learn more about how GrubMarket is harnessing AI and technology to redefine industry standards: https://www.GrubMarket.comCatch Pamela on The Produce Reporter!https://www.youtube.com/@ProducewithPamela/videos#TheFreshCrEd #GrubMarket #Sunfed #FoodTech #AgTech #Innovation #Podcast #TechInnovation #SustainableAgriculture #Leadership #ChangeMakers #Disruptor