The Fresh CrEd

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 exposin...

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...

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 fro...

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 reception...

In this special Viva Fresh 2025 edition of The Fresh CrEd, we sit down with Chip Starns, Executive Vice President and Founder of Reveam, for a conversation that’s part tech deep dive, part founder origin story — and all heart.   Recorded live at the Marriott Marquis in Houston, TX, Chip shares how his journey from Navy diver and nuclear engineer led him to pioneer electronic cold pasteurization —...

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 purpos...

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 opp...

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...

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 Berta...

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...

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...

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 su...

Welcome to another installment of Fresh Insights: The Future of Food Service on The Fresh CrEd podcast! In this episode, we sit down with award-winning Chef David Ruiz, a culinary visionary who is transforming the way we think about fresh produce and modern menus. Chef Ruiz shares his journey from the kitchen to becoming a key innovator in the food service industry. He discusses the latest culinar...

Welcome to the next installment of Fresh Insights: The Future of Food Service! In this episode, we dive deep into the world of food distribution with Joe Merenda, a seasoned leader in the produce industry. With decades of experience under his belt, Joe shares his unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing foodservice distribution today. From navigating supply chain disruptions t...

Welcome to the third installment of Fresh Insights: The Future of Food Service! In this episode, we sit down with Andy Hamilton, CEO of Markon, a visionary leader in the fresh produce industry. Andy shares his expertise on the economic factors influencing the produce sector, the challenges faced by distributors, and the strategic decisions that are shaping the future of fresh food. Andy offers a d...

This episode of The Fresh CrEd podcast is brought to you by Wiggins Farms. Welcome to the 2nd installment of Fresh Insights: The Future of Food Service! Join us as we sit down with two industry leaders who are transforming the fresh food landscape. Steve Grinstead, CEO of FreshEdge, and Dorene Mills, award-winning chef at Hannaford Supermarkets, share their insights on the current trends and futur...

In this kickoff episode of our special series "Fresh Insights: The Future of Foodservice," recorded live at the IFPA Foodservice Conference, we sit down with Cathy Burns, CEO of IFPA. Cathy shares her expert perspective on the latest trends and innovations shaping the foodservice industry. From sustainability to consumer preferences, gain invaluable insights that will keep you ahead of the curve....

Join us for an enlightening episode of The Fresh CrEd Podcast recorded at the Viva Fresh Expo, featuring Mayra Vazquez, co-founder of Latin Specialties. Discover Mayra’s journey from Mexico City to the bustling produce markets of Houston, and how she’s leveraging her media background to drive significant advancements in the industry. What's Inside This Episode:  • Diverse Leadership Roles: Mayra s...

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 day...

🌞 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 i...

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 corp...

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 A...

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 adv...

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...

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 i...