The Fresh CrEd

Craig Slate & Ed Bertaud

Welcome to The Fresh CrEd Podcast - The Heartbeat of Produce Innovation.

In a world where the seeds of innovation constantly need nurturing, The Fresh CrEd Podcast stands out as your go-to source for the freshest insights, stories, and trends from the heart of the produce industry. Join hosts Craig Slate and Ed Bertaud as they delve deep into the green fields of produce, bringing you face-to-face with the trailblazers shaping our food's future.

What We Offer:

  • Insider Insights: From the roots to the fruit, get the inside scoop on the produce industry's latest trends, challenges, and innovations.
  • Leadership Lessons: Learn from the masters. Our episodes feature conversations with industry leaders who share their journeys, strategies, and visions for a sustainable future.
  • Sustainability at its Core: Discover how the world of produce is evolving to meet tomorrow's needs today, with a focus on sustainability, equity, and innovation.
  • Community and Culture: At the heart of Fresh CrEd is a community passionate about the food that nourishes the world. Join us as we explore the culture, stories, and people that make the produce industry unique.


Why Listen?
Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or simply someone who cherishes the value of fresh food, The Fresh CrEd Podcast offers a blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration. With Craig and Ed's expert insights and infectious enthusiasm, you're not just listening to a podcast - you're joining a conversation that matters.

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Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Family Business Success: Mark Santos on Santos International's Journey
5d ago
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
May 25 2024
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
May 20 2024
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
May 14 2024
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
Viva Fresh 2024: Sev-Rend's Mark Hoppenjans on Innovative Packaging & Industry Trends
May 6 2024
Viva Fresh 2024: Sev-Rend's Mark Hoppenjans on Innovative Packaging & Industry Trends
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 Mark Hoppenjans from Sev-Rend as he discusses how their innovative packaging solutions are propelling the produce industry forward. In his first Viva Fresh appearance, Mark shares his insights on the significance of sustainable practices and the evolving dynamics of industry relationships.What's Inside This Episode:Discover the unique atmosphere and personal connections that define the Viva Fresh Expo.Learn how Sev-Rend is leading the way in sustainable packaging and automation, directly impacting produce handling and customer engagement.Explore the challenges and opportunities in implementing eco-friendly materials in packaging, from biodegradable options to advanced recycling practices.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 future of the produce industry and how innovation is driving growth. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment with your thoughts or questions!🔗 Useful Links:https://www.sev-rend.comSpotify: 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: The Fresh CrEd#VivaFreshExpo #ProduceIndustry #SustainablePackaging #BusinessInsights #InnovationInAgriculture
Viva Fresh 2024: Triumphs and Takeovers in Houston
Apr 29 2024
Viva Fresh 2024: Triumphs and Takeovers in Houston
Join us for an engaging episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast, recorded live at the 2024 Viva Fresh Expo in Houston, Texas! Hosts Craig Slate and Ed Bertaud unite with special guests Dante Galeazzi and Melinda Goodman for an in-depth discussion on this year's spectacular expo achievements and the vibrant future of the produce industry.🌟 What's Inside This Episode:A vibrant introduction to the 2024 Viva Fresh ExpoDante Galeazzi shares hilarious anecdotes and his dual role as an announcerMelinda Goodman talks about the overwhelming success and attendee feedbackInsights into the growing significance and impact of the Texas Mexico corridor in the produce industryWe extend our gratitude to our partners Born Farms, Art MX, Much 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 discover how these leaders and our community drive the produce industry forward. 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 #AgriculturePodcast #BusinessInsights #InnovationInAgriculture
Navigating DC's Maze: Fresh Insights on Ag Policy and Innovation at SEPC's Southern Exposure 2024
Apr 8 2024
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
Mar 22 2024
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
Mar 14 2024
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
Mar 11 2024
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.
Beyond the Comfort Zone: Michael Schutt's Path to Growth
Dec 11 2023
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
Dec 8 2023
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
Dec 8 2023
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.
Leading the Fresh Way: David Figliola @ Global produce and Floral Show
Dec 1 2023
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!
Building a Sustainable Future with Iñigo Canalejo Lasarte
Nov 26 2023
Building a Sustainable Future with Iñigo Canalejo Lasarte
In this captivating episode of The Fresh CrEd, hosts Craig Slate and Ed Bertaud welcome Iñigo Canalejo Lasarte, Vice President of ESG and Strategic Marketing at IFCO, all the way from Madrid. Dive into a fascinating conversation that spans from Spain to sustainability, as Iñigo shares his journey from the automotive industry to the forefront of environmental and social governance in the produce sector.Iñigo, with his rich background from Madrid and the automotive industry, discusses his transition to spearheading sustainable practices in the produce world. The episode offers insights into ESG, revealing how it extends beyond traditional environmental efforts to include broader social and ethical responsibilities within business operations. Explore the intricate balance between business efficiency and environmental sustainability, as Iñigo delves into the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility and the vital role of ESG in today's world.From his personal anecdotes about running with the bulls in Pamplona to his family's winemaking traditions, Iñigo's stories are as diverse as they are enlightening. The conversation also ventures into the world of wine, uncovering the familial connection to the vineyards of Spain.As we close this enriching episode, we extend 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, for their unwavering support. Their collaboration makes episodes like this possible, enabling us to bring you closer to the fascinating world of fresh produce.