The Fresh CrEd

Navigating DC’s Maze: Fresh Insights on Ag Policy and Innovation at SEPC’s Southern Exposure 2024

Dive into the latest episode of our podcast, recorded live from the dynamic Southern Exposure event in Tampa, Florida, 2024, where we explore the future of agribusiness through the lens of industry experts and innovators. This episode features an in-depth conversation with Robert Guenther of Breakthrough 365, who discusses his transition from a leading advocate in Washington, D.C., to spearheading efforts to tackle the agricultural industry's most pressing issues through his new venture.Guenther shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities within agribusiness, including critical policy discussions, labor reforms, and the pivotal role of bipartisan support in advancing the sector. He highlights the importance of navigating the complexities of import/export dynamics, strengthening supply chain resilience, and ensuring governmental support for both veteran farmers and those new to the field.Key highlights of the episode include:The journey from advocating for fresh produce industry policies to founding Breakthrough 365 to achieve impactful results in agribusiness.A deep dive into the evolving landscape of agricultural policy, labor reforms, and the necessity for robust, year-round supply chains.Expert analysis on the future of farming, emphasizing the need for strategic governmental support to cultivate sustainable agricultural practices.This episode offers invaluable perspectives for anyone interested in the intersections of business, policy, and innovation within agribusiness. Whether you're an industry professional, policymaker, or agribusiness enthusiast, join us for a thought-provoking discussion on shaping a sustainable future for the industry that sustains us all.Get in touch with Robert!Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlgmd1987/Email: Rguenther@btgr365.comBreakthrough 365: https://www.linkedin.com/company/breakthrough365-government-relations-strategies/USDA Urban Agriculture and Innovative Production (UAIP) Grants: https://www.usda.gov/urbanFarm Bill Information: https://www.usda.gov/farmbillStay tuned for more episodes that bring the forefront of agribusiness straight to your ears, and visit our website for more information on this episode's topics and what's coming next in the series.

Fresh Forces: Behind the Scenes of Military Nutrition with Mike Downey

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd podcast, recorded live from the bustling floor of SEPC's Southern Exposure, we sit down with Mike Downey, the strategic mind behind Military Produce Group's mission to nourish our nation's service members. Dive into a discussion that traverses from the origins of SEPC's premier event to the vital role fresh produce plays in supporting military families across the globe.What You'll Discover:A Veteran's Vision: Join us as Mike Downey shares his incredible journey from the early days of SEPC to spearheading efforts that ensure our military personnel have access to the freshest, most nutritious produce. Discover the evolution of an event that's grown from a humble gathering to a cornerstone of the produce industry.The Mission Behind Military Produce Group: Unpack the story of a privately held powerhouse that's more than just a supplier — it's a lifeline to the men and women who serve. Learn about the logistical marvels and heartfelt dedication required to feed the forces, from stateside bases to Guantanamo Bay.From Field to Commissary: Mike delves into the unique challenges and triumphs of delivering fresh food to military families, offering insights into how these efforts foster wellness, morale, and a taste of home, no matter where duty calls.A Personal Touch: Beyond the business, Mike gets personal, sharing his own pursuits of health and happiness through hobbies like golf, music, and culinary adventures. It’s a testament to the balance and passion that drive his professional endeavors.Exclusive Insights:Stick around for an exclusive look into Military Produce Group's operations and the impact of their work on the military community. This episode is more than just a conversation; it's an homage to those who serve and the dedicated individuals ensuring their well-being through quality nutrition.Join the Mission:Tune in for an enlightening journey into the heart of military nutrition with Mike Downey. Whether you're in the produce industry, part of a military family, or simply a patriot at heart, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and appreciation for the essential connection between agriculture and the armed forces.#SEPCSouthernExposure #MilitaryProduceGroup #FeedingTheFrontlines #ProduceIndustry #HealthyEating #SupportOurTroops

Spicing Up Agriculture: A Taste of Sweet Seasons’ Exotic Produce Revolution

Join Us for a Special Episode of The Fresh Cut, recorded Live @ SEPC's Southern Exposure in Tampa, Florida. This episode features Yasmani Garcia from Sweet Seasons, a trailblazing produce company from McAllen, Texas, known for their commitment to innovation, quality, and flavor. Yasmani shares a peek into their exciting innovations in the fresh produce industry and what they're showcasing at SEPC's Southern Exposure.In This Episode:Spotlight on Sweet Seasons: Discover the buzz around Sweet Seasons' first exhibition, their spicy super peppers, versatile jackfruit, and exotic cacao beans, showcasing their innovative approach to produce.Acknowledgements:Thanks to Our Partners: A big thank you to our partners, Sunfed & IFCO, for leading in quality produce and packaging, and to Zubelle Industries for their expertise in sustainable packaging and design. A special shoutout to Sweet Seasons for their collaboration and support, making this exploration of fresh produce innovation possible.Mark Your Calendars:Don't miss "The Credible Vegetable Report with Paul Manfre" launching March 29th for insights into the latest fresh produce trends, available on your favorite podcast platforms.Stay Connected:Follow The Fresh Cut on social media for up-to-date episodes and deep dives into the fresh produce world. Your engagement matters to us and enriches our community.Experience the innovation at SEPC Southern Exposure with Sweet Seasons in this enlightening episode of The Fresh Cut. Join us on this flavorful journey!Stay Tuned for a Special Treat:As a thank you for joining us on this flavorful journey, don't switch off just yet! We've saved a special treat for those who've made it this far. At the end of our interview, we'll share an exclusive 1.5-minute highlight clip from the Sweet Seasons booth at SEPC Southern Exposure. Get a glimpse of the innovation, energy, and vibrant produce that made their booth a standout at the event. It's a vivid snapshot of the passion and creativity fueling the fresh produce industry, brought to life by Sweet Seasons. Don't miss it!

Spicing Up the Industry: Introducing Paul Manfre and The Credible Vegetable Report

Join us on The Fresh Cut for a landmark episode direct from SEPC's Southern Exposure in Tampa, Florida. We're thrilled to welcome Paul Manfre, the renowned Red Pepper King, to the Fresh Cred family. Starting March 29th, dive into "The Credible Vegetable Report with Paul Manfre," your weekly dose of expert analysis on fresh produce sales, quality, consumer trends, and much more.In this engaging episode, discover Paul's journey from the vibrant streets of New York to becoming a pivotal figure in the fresh produce industry. With decades of experience, Paul's new show promises to spice up the conversation around fresh produce, focusing on everything from domestic and international sales to innovative strategies for boosting consumption.What's Inside:Paul's Vision: Learn about his commitment to increasing fresh produce consumption and his plans for the new show.Market Insights: Get a sneak peek into Paul's expert analysis on current trends in fresh produce and how he plans to address consumer demand.Engagement & Growth: Understand Paul's approach to engaging with a broader audience and enriching the industry dialogue.Special Thanks to Our Partners:This episode and the launch of "The Credible Vegetable Report" are made possible by the generous support of our sponsors. A heartfelt thank you to:Sunfed: Pioneers in providing fresh, quality produce year-round.IFCO: Innovators in reusable packaging solutions for the fresh food sector.Zubelle Industries: Leading the way in sustainable agriculture technologies.Sweet Seasons: Celebrating the bounty of the earth with their delicious, seasonally harvested fruits.Don't Miss Out:Mark your calendars for the premiere of "The Credible Vegetable Report with Paul Manfre" on March 29th. Available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you enjoy your podcasts. Get ready for invaluable insights that promise to transform your understanding of the fresh produce industry.Connect with Paul:LinkedIn: Paul Manfre - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-manfre-1214a134/Website: https://www.redpepperking.comCompany: http://topkatz.comFollow Us for More:Stay updated with The Fresh Cut and never miss an episode. Follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for the latest in fresh produce insights and industry trends.Engage with Our Community:We love hearing from you! Share your thoughts, questions, and insights with us in the comments below. Let's cultivate a vibrant community passionate about the fresh produce industry.

Global Insights and Industry Pioneers: Fresh Perspectives

Celebrating Fresh Perspectives: A Holiday Collection from The Fresh CrEd Podcast" invites you on an inspiring journey with three industry trailblazers. Discover their unique insights and innovative approaches in the dynamic world of produce.Laura Himes: Trailblazing in RetailUncover Laura Himes’ remarkable journey at Walmart, where she revolutionizes retail strategies and empowers future leaders. Her episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the complexities and innovations driving today's produce industry.Iñigo Canalejo Lasarte: Pioneering SustainabilityJoin Iñigo Canalejo Lasarte in a compelling exploration of sustainability in the produce industry. From IFCO's breakthrough initiatives to global environmental efforts, his story is a testament to the power of green innovation.Pamela Riemenschneider: Capturing the Produce NarrativeDive into the colorful world of Pamela Riemenschneider, where her passion for produce journalism brings stories to life. Her journey from photojournalism to produce reporting is a vibrant blend of advocacy, creativity, and industry love.Celebrate the holidays with The Fresh CrEd Podcast in this special bundle, showcasing stories of resilience, innovation, and global insights in the produce industry.

Beyond the Comfort Zone: Michael Schutt’s Path to Growth

Greetings, Fresh CrEd listeners! We're back with another compelling episode from the Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, California. We are so ready to dive into an enlightening conversation with our distinguished guest, Michael "Schutty" Schutt, the dynamic Director of Business Development at Bay Area Herb.In this episode, Schutty shares his fascinating journey in the produce industry, starting from a humble beginning at 16 in a local grocery store, climbing the ranks to become an industry influencer. His story is a testament to the power of growth, adaptability, and resilience in an ever-changing industry landscape.Schutty brings to the table a wealth of knowledge on personal branding, embracing discomfort, and the art of driving change, both in personal endeavors and professional pursuits. His insights into the evolving dynamics of the produce industry, particularly in connecting with the younger generation through innovative outreach, are thought-provoking and valuable.We explore Schutty's unique approach to business development at Bay Area Herb, discussing the complexities of retail strategies and supplier relationships. His dedication to promoting health and nutrition, coupled with his engaging storytelling, makes this episode a must-listen for industry veterans and newcomers alike.A special thanks to our partners: Law's Logistics, Real Time Intelligence, Thx! Dreams, Sunfed, IFCO, Full Tilt Marketing, and the International Fresh Produce Association for their support. Their contribution helps us bring these insightful stories from the heart of the produce world to you.Join us in this episode with Michael "Schutty" Schutt for an inspiring blend of industry expertise and personal flair that epitomizes true leadership in the produce sector, all here on Fresh CrEd.

Global Insights and Industry Pioneers: Trailblazing Voices

Celebrate the holiday season with The Fresh CrEd Podcast as we present "Global Insights and Industry Pioneers: Trailblazing Voices," a special bundle that showcases the inspiring stories and innovative minds in the produce industry.Jordan Okumura: Delve into a captivating discussion about the intersection of lifestyle, nutrition, and parenthood. Jordan shares how to balance health-conscious choices with life’s little pleasures, providing insights on achieving a runner's high and rethinking common foods. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for parents and wellness enthusiasts alike.Tomas Gonzalez: Journey with Tomas through his incredible life story, from his early experiences in Cuba to his influential role at Walmart. Discover how his love for agriculture and childhood memories shape his current work in organic produce and sustainability. Tomas's episode is an inspirational tale of passion, growth, and impact in the agricultural world.Kim Chackal: Follow Kim's unexpected venture into the banana industry, where her marketing expertise is revolutionizing our perception of this beloved fruit. Explore Equifruit's dedication to Fair Trade, sustainable farming, and learn about their unique shark branding. Kim's mission to ensure fair compensation for banana farmers is both enlightening and impactful.Happy Holidays from all of us at The Fresh CrEd Podcast! Join us in this bundle for a journey that celebrates innovation, resilience, and global insights in the produce industry.

Innovating for Good: Raul Fernandez’s Journey with Thx! Dreams

In this captivating episode of Fresh CrEd, streamed live from the bustling Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, California, we dive into a narrative that spans continents and redefines innovation. Our guest, Raul Fernandez of Thx! Dreams, brings a story that intertwines global experiences with groundbreaking agricultural advancements.Raul's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Costa Rica, raised in Argentina, and having lived across diverse cultures, his global perspective is a mosaic of unique insights. This episode traverses his intriguing path, from his early beginnings in various countries to spearheading pivotal changes in the produce industry.Raul recounts his pivotal role at Chiquita, where his creativity and problem-solving skills led to notable industry advancements. But it's his current venture with Thx! Dreams that truly captures the essence of his mission – a commitment to revolutionizing how we view and support farmworkers globally.This conversation isn't just about agricultural innovation; it's a deeper exploration of social responsibility and sustainability. Raul eloquently discusses the importance of connecting consumers with the real stories behind their food, transforming the agricultural narrative into one of community, support, and empathy.Join hosts Craig Slate and Ed Bertaud as they navigate this inspiring journey, uncovering the layers of passion and drive that fuel Raul's vision. His dedication to empowering communities and reshaping the agricultural industry will leave you both enlightened and inspired.As we wrap up this engaging episode, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners: Law's Logistics, Real Time Intelligence, Thx! Dreams, Sunfed, IFCO, Full Tilt Marketing, and the International Fresh Produce Association. Your support is invaluable in helping us bring these insightful and entertaining stories from the world of produce.Stay tuned for more episodes from the show, where the fascinating stories of leaders and innovators in the produce world continue to unfold.

We Got It This Time! Pamela’s part deux

Welcome back to The Fresh CrEd, coming to you from the vibrant Global Produce and Floral Show in Anaheim, California. In this special 'Part Deux' episode, we’re thrilled to feature Pamela Riemenschneider, a renowned figure in the produce media world, joining us straight from Austin, Texas.Pamela takes us on a delightful journey from her beginnings as a photojournalism graduate to becoming a prominent voice in the produce industry. Her tales are sprinkled with humor and insight, including quirky anecdotes and a memorable tale from a golf tournament.As someone known for her vivid personality and unique approach to branding in produce, Pamela discusses how embracing her extroverted side has been instrumental in shaping her professional persona. Recorded against the backdrop of the bustling Global Produce and Floral Show, this episode perfectly captures the dynamic and spirited essence of the produce industry. Pamela's vibrant energy and deep expertise, coupled with the lively atmosphere of the event in Anaheim, create a truly memorable listening experience.As we wrap up this episode, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners: Law's Logistics, Real Time Intelligence, Thx! Dreams, Sunfed, IFCO, Full Tilt Marketing, and the International Fresh Produce Association. Your support is invaluable in helping us bring these insightful and entertaining stories from the world of produce.

Leading the Fresh Way: David Figliola @ Global produce and Floral Show

Join Craig Slate and Ed Bertaud in this engaging episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast, live from the International Fresh Produce Association's Global Produce and Floral Show. Our distinguished guest, David Figliola, Business Unit Director at HEB, shares his extensive experience and insights into the produce industry.David Figliola takes us through his remarkable journey, beginning with his early days in the dynamic environment of wholesale trading at CH Robinson. He recounts the evolution of his career, leading up to his influential role at HEB, where he now oversees key strategic initiatives for a range of produce categories.David provides a deeper look into the human aspects of the industry, highlighting the significant impact of strong leadership and mentorship throughout his career. He discusses the art of developing one's leadership style and the importance of fostering future talent within the industry.As we wrap up this enriching episode, we express our heartfelt thanks to our partners: Law's Logistics, Real Time Intelligence, Thx! Dreams, Sunfed, IFCO, Full Tilt Marketing, and the International Fresh Produce Association. Their support significantly enhances our podcast and the wider produce community.Don't forget to subscribe to The Fresh CrEd Podcast for more fascinating discussions and industry insights. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we continue exploring the vibrant world of produce and floral!