In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, recorded live at the 2025 IFPA Foodservice Conference in Monterey, we spotlight Digital Nest — a nonprofit workforce hub that’s been creating opportunities for underserved youth for more than a decade. With centers across Watsonville, Salinas, Gilroy, Modesto, and Stockton, Digital Nest equips young people ages 14–24 with technical and creative skills that open doors to careers in tech, marketing, and beyond. Their work doesn’t stop at the classroom — they’re also experimenting with how Gen Z connects to food through projects like the “I’d Bite That” social media campaign. From mentorship to career pipelines, Digital Nest shows what’s possible when access, creativity, and community come together. 👉 Learn more at digitalnest.org 🎧 Listen now to learn how the next generation of leaders is being built in the heart of ag country. Series support: Wiggins Farms | IFCO | Little Bear Produce | Misionero | SunFed | Born Farms | International Fresh Produce Association

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, recorded live at the 2025 IFPA Foodservice Conference in Monterey, we sit down with Paul Hardy, CEO of Monterey Mushrooms. Paul shares a career shaped by international supply chains, data storytelling, and a philosophy of leadership built on systems and trust. From moving across the globe to leading one of America’s largest mushroom producers, he discusses how global experience translates to local leadership, why facts and context matter more than firefighting, and how educating consumers about mushrooms can reduce waste and grow the category.   Whether you’re in the produce business, a leader in any field, or simply curious about the food on your table, Paul’s insights on teamwork, planning, and communication offer value far beyond mushrooms.   🎧 Presented by IFCO. Series support: Wiggins Farms | IFCO | Little Bear Produce | Misionero | SunFed | Born Farms | IFPA.

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, recorded live at the 2025 IFPA Foodservice Conference in Monterey, we sit down with Peter Beaullieu, Director of Sourcing for Topco’s West Coast produce division.   From his first job behind a Central Market cheese counter to leading sourcing for one of the nation’s largest cooperatives, Peter’s journey is rooted in flavor, data, and servant leadership. He shares how co-ops give regional retailers the tools to compete, why data only matters when it tells a story, and what it takes to balance quality with value in a shifting consumer market.   We also explore consumer trends, specialty and local produce, and the narrowing gap between “luxury” items and everyday fresh. Whether you’re a produce professional or simply passionate about good food, this conversation offers insights into leadership, team growth, and the future of fresh.   🎧 Presented by Wiggins Farms. Series support: Wiggins Farms | IFCO | Little Bear Produce | Misionero | SunFed | Born Farms | IFPA.

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, recorded live at the 2025 IFPA Foodservice Conference in Monterey, we sit down with Jeanne Reilly, Director of School Nutrition @ RSU 14 Windham / Raymond School District.   Jeanne shares how schools can transform cafeterias into spaces that build lifelong healthy eating habits, and why getting fruits and vegetables onto every tray matters for kids, families, and communities alike.   We explore: How early exposure to produce shapes lifelong health outcomes The challenges and opportunities in today’s K–12 nutrition programs Why partnerships between schools, growers, and parents are critical for success Whether you’re in produce, education, or a parent invested in your child’s nutrition, this conversation offers insights you can put into action today. 🎧 Powered by Little Bear Produce. Series support: Wiggins Farms | IFCO | Little Bear Produce | Misionero | Sunfed | Born Farms | IFPA.

IFPA President Cathy Burns lays out a simple mandate: if we want better health outcomes, policy must say “fruits and vegetables”—plainly. We cover the Make America Healthy Again effort, why 90% of Americans miss the daily produce mark, and the moves that convert talk into action across K–12, colleges & universities, and foodservice.   Presented by Wiggins Farms. Series support: Wiggins Farms | IFCO | Little Bear Produce | Misionero | SunFed | Born Farms | International Fresh Produce Association   Takeaways: • Name fruits & vegetables explicitly in federal guidance • Fund programs that actually raise daily intake • Bring leaders on-site—seeing fresh in action converts

Join us inside the IFPA Retail Conference in Frisco, Texas, for three fast-paced conversations with the people shaping the future of fresh produce: Yan Branco, VP of Produce Merchandising at Sobeys Shares how cross-border collaboration—and removing competitive barriers—fuels innovation and keeps produce front and center as “food as medicine” and the “cleanest-burning fuel.” Joe Merenda, President / COO at Misionero Unpacks how regional supply chains are evolving, the power of intimate, decision-maker-driven events, and why right-sized agility lets them launch custom salad kits that drive consumption. Joe Watson, VP of Retail, Foodservice, and Wholesale at IFPA Reflects on the purpose behind this tight-knit gathering, how interactive breakout sessions amplified ideas between supply-side and retail leaders, and what’s next for the conference in Phoenix. Special thanks to our sponsors—Misionero, Born Farms, IFCO, SunFed and the International Fresh Produce Association—for making this episode possible.   🔔 Subscribe to The Fresh CrEd for more insider conversations on branding, supply-chain strategy and the innovations moving produce forward.

In this special live episode from Viva Fresh 2025, Craig and Ed sit down with TIPA President Dante Galeazzi and Fulltilt Marketing Vice President Jen Velasquez to unpack the tenth edition of the show in Houston. Recorded on the expo floor, they cover: • The year-long planning that brought together 2,800 attendees, 191 booths and over 400 retail & food-service buyers • How “coast-to-coast, border-to-border” participation underscores the Tex-Mex corridor’s role as North America’s produce connector • Creative pre-show networking ideas—from lazy-river floats with cocktails to poolside pitch sessions • Blending culinary innovation with industry advocacy: scratch-made produce dishes, keynote highlights and everything in between • The unsung work of TIPA’s volunteer leaders and Full Tilt Marketing to nail every operational detail • Early reflections on the keynote delivered by the former migrant farmworker-turned-astronaut Plus candid stories from the floor, a few laughs, and a sneak peek at Viva Fresh 2026 in San Antonio. 🎧 Sponsored by: EXP Group, LLC, Athos, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), SunFed, IFCO, Monterey Mushrooms, AnaVale Produce Corp, AgroGonzáMex, Agrival by First Produce, and Art Mx.

In this special edition of The Fresh CrEd from Viva Fresh 2025, we sit down with Jon Holder, VP of Produce and Floral at Superior Grocers, for a grounded and heartfelt conversation about his decades-long journey through the grocery world—from sacking groceries at 16 to leading procurement for a major California retailer. John reflects on: • The evolution of produce retail across generations • Growing demand for tropicals and Hispanic-focused offerings • Tariff uncertainty and pricing pressures • Why respect and relationships still matter most in the produce industry Plus: hunting stories, career pivots, and a powerful reminder that perseverance through personal loss can shape not only your leadership—but your legacy. 🎧 Listen now and get a front-row seat to one of retail’s most quietly influential careers. 🔈 Sponsored by: SunFed, IFCO, Monterey Mushrooms, EXP Group LLC, AnaVale Produce, ArtMX Produce, Agro GonzaMex, Athos, Agrival, and the Texas International Produce Association #FreshCrEd #ProduceIndustry #RetailLeadership #JohnHolder #SuperiorGrocers #VivaFresh2025 #FoodIndustry #CareerJourney #PodcastLaunch

In this inspiring close to our Viva Fresh 2025 series, we sit down with Jesse Jones, professor and advisor at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, and graduate student Sabastian Melendez to talk about building bridges between higher education and the produce industry through the Edge Program.   We explore: • Jesse’s journey from the fields to the front of the classroom • The value of exposing students to real-world produce careers • Why South Texas is ripe for agricultural investment • How competitions and hackathons could unlock next-gen solutions • The industry’s biggest challenges—from outdated systems to tech adoption • Sabastian’s take on bringing marketing and innovation to a “simple but high-quality” industry   It’s a conversation about roots, relevance, and rethinking how we attract the next wave of talent into agriculture.   🎧 Sponsored by: SunFed, IFCO, Monterey Mushrooms, AnaVale Produce Corp, AgroGonzáMex, Agrival by First Produce, Art Mx, Athos, and the Texas International Produce Association (TIPA). Huge thanks to these partners for making our Viva Fresh 2025 series possible.

In this high-energy episode recorded live at Viva Fresh 2025, we sit down with Austin Moore of H-E-B to talk early grind, retail strategy, and what it takes to grow within a Texas grocery giant. From his days hustling produce at 15 under legendary “notorious peddlers” to leading with intention at one of the nation’s top retailers, Austin brings a fresh, grounded take on the business.   We dig into: • Getting his start with cash-in-hand pirates of West Texas produce • The evolution from street smarts to corporate leadership • How H-E-B balances scale with community focus • The difference between managing vs. developing people • Why patience and people-first mentality still win • His unexpected entry into retail—and what’s kept him hooked   Plus, some wild stories from the early days, a few laughs, and a sharp look at where the industry’s headed.   🎧 Sponsored by: EXP Group, LLC, Athos, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), SunFed, IFCO, Monterey Mushrooms, AnaVale Produce Corp, AgroGonzáMex, Agrival by First Produce, and Art Mx.   Big thanks to each of these incredible partners for making this Viva Fresh 2025 series possible.

In this high-energy episode recorded live at Viva Fresh 2025, we sit down with Anthony Serafino, President of EXP Group LLC, to talk leadership, tropicals, and the state of the industry. From navigating volatile tariffs to building a people-first culture, Anthony brings bold insights and sharp perspective.   We dig into: His journey from family business to president at 30 EXP Group’s expansion from New Jersey to Texas Why tariffs are hitting harder than COVID-era disruptions The rising mainstream appeal of tropicals like yuca and papaya How leadership and communication are critical under pressure What Tokyo taught him about respect, toilets, and perspective Plus, a few laughs, a love for running, and a pledge to hit the pickleball court next year.   🎧 Sponsored by: EXP Group, LLC, Athos, Texas International Produce Association (TIPA), SunFed, IFCO, Monterey Mushrooms, AnaVale Produce Corp, AgroGonzáMex, Agrival by First Produce, and Art Mx.   Big thanks to each of these incredible partners for making this Viva Fresh 2025 series possible.

This week on The Fresh CrEd, we’re joined by Joe Watson, Vice President of Retail, Foodservice, and Wholesale Membership at IFPA, to dive into what makes the IFPA Retail Conference such a must-attend event for the produce industry. Joe shares what sets the Retail Conference apart — from its intimate size and tailored programming to the connections forged on the golf course and at evening receptions. We explore how events like this strengthen our industry’s sense of community and why shaking hands and sharing stories face-to-face still matters more than ever. Tune in to hear Joe’s insights, a few behind-the-scenes highlights, and a glimpse of what’s ahead as we head to Dallas for this year’s conference!   🎙 Topics include: Why intimacy and focused programming create bigger impact The magic of golf, networking, and evening events What attendees can expect at the 2025 IFPA Retail Conference The evolving role of community and connection in the produce industry  Enjoy the episode and get ready to join us at the Retail Conference!

From Navy submarines to cold pasteurization, Chip Starns takes us inside his journey and the revolutionary tech that’s giving strawberries weeks of extra life—without chemicals.

In this inspiring episode of The Fresh CrEd, we sit down with Cathy Burns, CEO of the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), for a candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of taking risks. From her early days bagging groceries in Maine to leading one of the most influential associations in the global produce industry, Cathy shares her journey of growth, grit, and purpose.   Discover how a bold idea for a parking lot tent taught Cathy the importance of “putting your name on something” — a lesson she now passes on to leaders around the world. Cathy also opens up about her formative years, overcoming gender bias, and her passion for driving the industry’s fight for fresh produce on every plate.   With anecdotes about Stephen King sightings, square-dancing championships, and her relentless pursuit of 10,000 steps every day for 4 years, Cathy reminds us that great leadership is a mix of discipline, creativity, and courage. This episode is packed with humor, heart, and actionable insights for leaders at every stage of their journey.   Episode Highlights: •“Put Your Name On It” — Why standing out matters in leadership. •From Bagging Groceries to CEO — Cathy’s journey of growth and impact. •Fighting for Fresh — How IFPA is driving global change for fresh produce. •Fun facts: Square-dancing Queen, 10K Step Streak, and Her Run-in with Stephen King   Special thanks to all of our sponsors who made this episode possible — JR Imports, Lakeway Produce, HM Produce, Kern Ridge Growers, Equifruit, Sunfed, and IFCO.

In this episode of The Fresh CrEd, we sit down with Karen Caplan, former president of Frida’s Specialty Produce and a true pioneer in the produce industry. From stepping into leadership at just 30 years old to navigating moments of betrayal and growth, Karen shares invaluable lessons on resilience, strategy, and what it takes to succeed in a family business. Hear how she turned challenges into opportunities, built lasting relationships, and established a legacy that continues to shape the industry today. It’s a conversation packed with insight, inspiration, and the kind of wisdom only gained through experience. This episode of The Fresh CrEd is proudly brought to you by JR Imports, your trusted partner for exceptional quality in the fresh produce industry. 🎉 Don’t miss out! Follow The Fresh CrEd on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on future episodes featuring the people and ideas transforming the produce world. #TheFreshCrEd #LeadershipLessons #ProduceIndustry #JRImports #KarenCaplan #FamilyBusiness #Innovation

Join us on this episode of The Fresh CrEd as we sit down with two extraordinary leaders in the world of fresh produce, Kinlyn Hinson, the South Carolina Watermelon Queen, and Tori Hobbs, the Gulf Coast Watermelon Queen.   Kinlyn and Tori share their unique journeys, from their paths to becoming watermelon queens to their roles as passionate advocates for fresh produce and agriculture. With a focus on education, advocacy, and the importance of supporting local farmers, they highlight the vital connection between the farm and the community.   Tune in to hear how these inspiring young women are using their platforms to promote fresh watermelon, educate future generations, and create lasting impact in the agriculture industry.   Special thanks to our title sponsor, HM Produce, for making this episode possible.

In this compelling episode of The Fresh CrEd, we’re joined by Jennie Coleman, President of Equifruit, a pioneering Fairtrade brand on a mission to transform the produce industry with what they call “Banana Justice.” Jennie brings a fresh perspective on fair wages, sustainable sourcing, and the role of ethical practices in the global banana market. Through an engaging discussion with hosts Ed Bertaud and Craig Slate, Jennie shares how Equifruit is challenging traditional industry practices and changing the way we think about bananas. From her journey into fair trade to the impact Equifruit is making for farmers and communities worldwide, Jennie’s insights shine a light on the possibilities of a fairer, more sustainable future in agriculture. Topics Covered: • Jennie’s unique path from international development to transforming the banana industry • Equifruit’s commitment to fair wages, sustainability, and ethical sourcing • The real impact of fair trade practices on farming communities • Strategies for educating consumers and retailers on the true cost of produce • How Equifruit’s bold approach is setting new standards for the industry Join us as Jennie reveals why fair trade matters—not just for farmers, but for consumers who want to make a difference with every purchase. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: • Title Sponsor: Equifruit • Supporting Sponsors: Lakeway Produce, HM Produce, Kern Ridge Growers, JR Imports, SunFed, and IFCO Don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of The Fresh CrEd as we bring you real stories and insights from leaders across the produce industry. If you’re interested in fair trade, ethical sourcing, or creating impact through sustainable choices, this episode is for you! #ProduceIndustry #FairTrade #SustainableAgriculture #TheFreshCrEd #BananaJustice #Equifruit #EthicalSourcing #AgricultureInnovation #SustainableFarming #SocialImpact

In this insightful episode of The Fresh CrEd, hosts Ed Bertaud and Craig Slate sit down with Yan Branco, Lead of Produce Sourcing Innovation and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) Development at Sobeys. Yan shares his journey from his family farm in Canada to his role at one of North America’s leading grocery retailers, bringing a fresh perspective on the future of produce.   Yan breaks down the importance of a “marathon mindset” when it comes to tech adoption in the produce industry, especially with advancements like AI and vertical farming. From overcoming early hurdles to understanding the true pace of innovation, Yan shares how retail leaders are cautiously embracing change while navigating the unique challenges of produce sourcing and consumer education.   Listeners can expect a mix of humor, hard-earned industry wisdom, and honest reflections on what it takes to balance tradition with transformation in the fast-evolving world of agriculture. With topics ranging from the competitive pressures of the food market to strategies for increasing produce consumption, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in food, farming, and the future of produce.   Key Highlights:   •Yan’s career journey in the produce industry •Why patience is essential in tech and innovation for agriculture •Vertical farming, AI, and the potential for industry-wide transformation •The role of consumer education in driving produce consumption •Building a collaborative approach to achieve industry change   Tune in for Yan Branco’s fresh perspective on what lies ahead for produce, and don’t miss upcoming episodes as we explore more voices from the Global Produce & Floral Show!   Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:   •Title Sponsor: Lakeway Produce •Series Sponsors: HM Produce, Kern Ridge Growers, Equifruit, JR Imports, SunFed, and IFCO   Be sure to subscribe to The Fresh CrEd for more industry insights, stories, and future-focused conversations from leaders who are shaping the produce world!

In this special episode, we sit down with Congressman Ruben Gallego, a dedicated public servant with a compelling story of perseverance and dedication. Born to immigrant parents from Colombia and Mexico, Ruben shares his journey from humble beginnings on the south side of Chicago to serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and eventually representing Arizona in Congress.   Join us as we delve into:   •His personal narrative: Overcoming adversity, serving in Iraq, and the challenges faced upon returning home. •The transition to politics: What motivated him to run for office and his approach to serving his constituents. •Immigration and border security: Insightful discussion on the complexities of immigration reform and its impact on both the economy and society. •Agriculture and trade: The importance of the produce industry, tariffs, and fostering strong trade relationships with Mexico. •Water rights and sustainability: Addressing the critical issue of water resources between the U.S. and Mexico and its effect on farmers.   This episode offers a candid look into the life of a congressman who continues to fight for the American dream and the constituents he serves. Whether you’re interested in politics, agriculture, or inspiring life stories, this conversation with Rep. Gallego is not to be missed.

In this insightful conclusion to our Fresh Insights: The Future of Food Service series, we sit down with Julie Krivanek, President of Krivanek Consulting and a renowned expert in executive development. With over 30 years of experience, Julie has worked closely with leaders in the fresh produce industry to enhance their leadership skills and create succession plans that ensure long-term business success. Julie shares her deep knowledge on the evolving leadership challenges in the produce sector, particularly in the face of an increasingly complex and globalized market. From developing talent to navigating family-owned business transitions, this conversation is a must-listen for executives, professionals, and entrepreneurs in the fresh produce industry looking to sharpen their leadership edge.   This episode is brought to you by Kern Ridge Growers, Wiggins Farms, SunFed, and IFCO.   Don't miss out on Julie’s transformative insights into leadership, coaching, and succession planning in an industry that's constantly evolving. Subscribe and visit www.thefreshcred.com for more exclusive content!