The Produce Moms Podcast

In this episode, Lori Taylor and Jackie London discuss the importance of heart health and the role that nutrition, specifically fruits and vegetables, plays in maintaining a healthy heart.  The episode concludes with a discussion on natural fruit and veggie aphrodisiacs.

In this episode, Lori Taylor and Britton Ladd discuss various topics related to the grocery retail industry.   They cover the importance of fresh produce in grocery retail, the potential Kroger-Albertsons merger, the impact of mergers and acquisitions on fruit and vegetable suppliers, the growing retail media industry, the decline in produce consumption, the power of storytelling in food and groce...

In this episode, Lori Taylor hosts a roundtable discussion with Karen Nardozza, CarrieAnn Arias, and Tristan Simpson, who are thought leaders in the produce industry. They explore various trends in the industry, including plant-based foods, functional foods, flavor and culinary innovations, and convenience.

In this episode, Lori Taylor and Jackie London discuss their collaboration and the upcoming monthly podcast. They also reflect on the highs and lows of the food and beverage industry in 2023 and discuss the emerging trends for 2024. The main themes include food as culture, the importance of convenience in consuming fruits and vegetables, and the impact of GLP-1s on food sales.

In this episode, Lori Taylor interviews Amit Patel, the Director of Innovation for NatureSweet, about the importance of innovation in the fresh produce industry.

In this episode, Lori Taylor and Pamela Riemenschneider discuss the latest trends in the produce industry. They cover topics such as flash-in-the-pan trends vs. long-lasting mega trends, the rise of direct-to-consumer shopping on TikTok, the demand for convenient cooking at home, and the popularity of functional foods.

The conversation focuses on the potential impact of the tomato suspension agreement between the United States and Mexico. The agreement, which has been in place since 1996, has allowed for stability, innovation, and the availability of high-quality tomatoes year-round. Terminating the agreement could lead to a significant increase in tomato prices, limited availability, and negative economic conse...

For too long, the mental health of those working in agriculture has been a silent struggle. The relentless demands of the profession, coupled with factors like unpredictable weather, market fluctuations, and financial uncertainties, have created an environment ripe for stress and anxiety. Farmers often find themselves isolated, navigating these challenges alone without the necessary support system...

Lori Taylor announces Marshal Sewell as the 2023 Trailblazer Award recipient for his work to raise awareness of mental health in the agriculture industry. Marshal is the founder of Mind Your Melon, and his personal story originally aired as episode 217 on The Produce Moms Podcast. Part 1 of 2 in our Trailblazer Award celebration.

In this episode, Lori Taylor interviews Jennifer Sanchez, the Vice President of Marketing at Sun World. They discuss the global launch of Sun World's AUTUMNCRISP ®   grape variety. They also delve into the technology and genetics behind farming, the characteristics that consumers look for in table grapes, and the importance of meeting the needs of growers. The episode concludes with a description...

In the heart of modern agriculture, a growing movement is taking root – regenerative farming. This transformative approach not only seeks to sustainably feed a growing global population but also aims to restore and enhance the health of our planet. In this episode, we delve into the world of regenerative farming, exploring its principles, emphasizing the importance of soil health, and shedding lig...

In a world where culinary trends shift as swiftly as customer preferences; the food service industry finds itself in a perpetual state of adaptation. To gain insights into the current landscape and future prospects, Lori Taylor chats with Maeve Webster, President of Menu Matters, a leading consultancy firm specializing in food industry trends and consumer behavior.

Potatoes have become a culinary cornerstone in the American diet, gracing our tables in various forms, from crispy fries to creamy mashed goodness. However, the journey from field to fork involves a complex network of farmers, policymakers, and industry leaders working together to ensure a thriving potato industry. We had the privilege of sitting down with Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato C...

School cafeteria dining has long been associated with bland, institutional food and a lackluster atmosphere. However, there's a growing movement to redefine this experience, offering students not just nourishment but an engaging, diverse, and healthy dining environment. To delve deeper into this transformative approach, I had the pleasure of speaking with Diane Grodek, a visionary in the field of...

In a world where fast food has long been synonymous with unhealthy indulgences, a surprising shift is taking place, led by an unexpected pioneer - Little Caesars. The popular pizza chain is breaking new ground by championing healthy changes in the way America eats, proving that convenient and delicious food doesn't have to compromise on health. Little Caesars' commitment to change how America eats...

In the bustling world of school food services, there are unsung heroes who tirelessly work to ensure students receive not only nutritious meals but also a holistic education about the food they consume. Jessica Shelly, the Director for Student Dining Services at Cincinnati Public Schools, stands out as one such remarkable figure who is leading the charge for healthier eating habits and the importa...

In today's rapidly evolving food landscape, consumers are increasingly interested in the provenance of their meals. They want to know where their food comes from and the story behind it. In response to this demand, there's been a heartening trend of farmers and restaurants collaborating to promote sustainable, locally sourced cuisines and beverages. This unique partnership goes beyond just busines...

In the realm of education, the significance of nutrition in the lives of students cannot be overstated. Proper nutrition plays a pivotal role in their growth, development, and overall well-being. To delve deeper into this topic, we had the privilege of hosting Christine Clarahan, a renowned expert in school nutrition, on our podcast.

On the Produce Moms Podcast we are going to be diving into a new series focused on school foodservice. In these upcoming episodes,  we're going to have some thought-provoking discussions as we tackle important topics like childhood nutrition, food sustainability, budget constraints, and the ever-evolving world of dietary preferences. Stay tuned!

In a world that often prioritizes profit over purpose, it's heartening to see businesses that put social and environmental responsibility at the forefront of their mission. B-Corp, or Benefit Corporation, is a certification that recognizes companies committed to balancing profit with a positive impact on society and the environment. One such shining example is NatureSweet®, a company known for its...

"When I started 25 years ago doing this, there was a huge disparity between leadership roles of Latinos in kitchens."   Chef Aarón Sánchez        Because restaurants are so prolific across the United States, there are many, many jobs in kitchen service, but historically an under-representation of Latinos in chef and managerial positions. Out of the almost 150,000 chefs currently employed in the Un...

On today's episode,  we talk to Jill Castle whose career spans over two decades, during which she has dedicated herself to the mission of helping parents and caregivers lay the foundation for lifelong healthy eating habits in their children. Her expertise extends beyond just nutritional knowledge; it encompasses a deep understanding of child development, psychology, and practical strategies for su...

Agriculture lies at the heart of our nation's prosperity, and the Farm Bill plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of this essential industry. As we approach the reauthorization of the Farm Bill in 2023, the International Farm Policy Association (IFPA) has been working diligently to ensure that the legislation addresses the ever-evolving needs of farmers, rural communities, and the environment...