This week on the Global Fresh Series, we're diving into the dynamic world of private label programs —and we’re taking you straight to the heart of Tuscany, Italy . Our guest is a seasoned global affairs executive and passionate good food ambassador with over 15 years of international experience connecting the dots between retailers, olive oil suppliers, and third-party certifiers . Tune in as we explore what makes private labels thrive, the behind-the-scenes standards that matter, and why the fu...
Jul 09, 2025•43 min
In the shadow of revolution, a campaign of quiet devastation unfolded. While Washington’s Continental Army fought British redcoats along the eastern seaboard, a very different war was being waged in the lush valleys of upstate New York. It was not a war for cities or forts but for orchards, granaries, and the very soil beneath Seneca feet. Join John and Patrick as they unearth the harrowing truth behind the Sullivan Expedition - a scorched-earth campaign ordered by George Washington to annihilat...
Jul 08, 2025•59 min
In this episode of The Produce Industry Podcast , host Patrick Kelly welcomes two industry powerhouses — Ross "The Produce Boss" Nelson and Tony Nuovo from Grower Stock — for a dynamic conversation about innovation in produce sourcing. Together, they explore what sets Grower Stock apart as a game-changing platform in the produce supply chain. From streamlining procurement to increasing transparency and efficiency for buyers and sellers alike, Patrick, Ross, and Tony break down how this digital m...
Jul 07, 2025•52 min•Season 1Ep. 543
In this episode, Juanita Gaglio connects with Michael Grunwald to explore the topics within his compelling new book. They reflect on the powerful intersection of food, ecosystems, and human ingenuity—discovering how thoughtful approaches in agriculture can help nourish both people and the planet. Michael brings insight about the next frontier in sustainable food systems. They discuss a range of initiatives—from breakthrough crops to emerging technologies—that hint at a future where we can feed t...
Jul 02, 2025•49 min
The rise of the organic movement is often remembered as a peaceful revolution - a return to the earth, to purity, to harmony with nature. But its true origins tell a far darker tale. Born not in the flower-strewn fields of 1960s counterculture, but in the grim laboratories of fascist ideology, the organic movement was shaped by the poisonous ideal of Blut und Boden - blood and soil - Hitler’s vision of racial purity rooted in sacred, cultivated land. In the shadow of the First World War, as mode...
Jul 01, 2025•56 min
In this episode of The Produce Industry Podcast , host Patrick Kelly is joined by Ross Nelson, known as “The Produce Boss.” The conversation delves into the upcoming OPS Show in Monterey, California, offering insights into what attendees can anticipate. Additionally, the episode touches on Stemilt's dark-sweet cherries, highlighting their appeal in the fresh produce market with a small taste test. We also dive into a brief lesson with Ross sharing his perspective on what it takes to be a "Produc...
Jun 30, 2025•34 min•Season 1Ep. 542
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays from The Produce Industry Network and AgLife Media, it’s summertime—and that means stone fruit is on fire ! Ross and Dan welcome Kevin Steiner from Mountain View Fruit to talk all things peaches, nectarines, peachcots, plumcots, and plums—yellow, white, and everything in between. The season’s hitting its stride, and the fruit is everywhere . It’s the time of year when warm weather and fresh fruit come together to revitalize us. Plus, we’ve got a garden u...
Jun 27, 2025•35 min
Join host Patrick Kelly and guest Manuel Michel, Managing Director of the Colombia Avocado Board, to explore how Avocados from Colombia is redefining consumer perception and building a standout brand in the global produce aisle. They dive into how the nation’s powerful country-branding—highlighting Colombia’s lush biodiversity, sustainability ethos, and rich cultural story—is fueling awareness and retail momentum This episode offers a compelling story for growers, marketers, and avocado lovers a...
Jun 25, 2025•39 min
From the sun-soaked pineapple fields of Puerto Rico to the grapevines that shaped Puritan Connecticut, from Madrid’s legendary El Oso y el Madroño to Grenada’s fragrant nutmeg empire, symbols of fresh produce have found their way onto flags, seals, and coats of arms across the world. But behind these charming emblems lie stories of indigenous resilience, colonial ambition, revolutionary struggle, and ecological peril. Join John and Patrick in this month's livestream episode as they reveal how fr...
Jun 24, 2025•49 min
This week on The Produce Industry Podcast, we’re recapping all the energy, insights, and fresh ideas from the NGA Fresh Summit in Milwaukee, Wisconsin — and who better to join us than Mary Heslepp , the official MC of the event! Mary shares her behind-the-scenes perspective, favorite moments, and the meaningful conversations that made this year’s show stand out. From panels that challenged the status quo to unforgettable networking moments and produce showcases that wowed the crowd, we break it ...
Jun 23, 2025•38 min•Season 1Ep. 541
This week on Fresh from the Field Fridays , Ross the Produce Boss and Dan the Produce Man welcome Joel Hewitt from CMI Orchards. We’re diving deep into the Northwest Cherry season—talking timing, trends, and taste. Joel gives us the lowdown on the American Dream label—what it stands for, what’s behind it, and why it matters. We’ll also dig into some exciting newer varieties, like the Skylar Rae and the Strawberry Cherry , plus what’s happening in the world of organic cherries and the unique chal...
Jun 20, 2025•34 min
Join us for a dynamic session hosted by Global Women Fresh, where we shine a spotlight on bold beginnings, fearless leadership, and the power of community. In this episode features with Julie Escobar and Carmell Clark brings an inspiring Powercircle conversation with trailblazing women across the global fresh produce industry—and a special spotlight on Casey Kio, a leader whose story exemplifies resilience, innovation, and transformation. Visit Global Women Fresh: www.globalwomenfresh.com...
Jun 20, 2025•27 min
This week, we’re taking you to new heights as we peel back the story behind the U.K.’s latest innovation to extend the shelf life of one of the world’s most beloved—and wasted—fruits: the banana. We’ll also dive into a spicy global face-off: Egyptian vs. Chinese garlic—where do your tastebuds land in this flavorful showdown? Plus, get the inside scoop on who's shaking up the fresh apple scene (hint: Superman might be involved) and where growth is booming across Spain’s retail aisles. Grab your s...
Jun 18, 2025•22 min
The pineapple may have begun as a rare curiosity from the tropics, but by the 18th century, it had become a symbol of imperial power, elite refinement, and national rivalry. In this second and final part of their journey into the history of the world’s most flamboyant fruit, John and Patrick explore the height of pineapple mania in Georgian Britain, where aristocrats competed to grow the perfect specimen in lavish “pineries,” often at extraordinary cost. Possessing a pineapple was no longer just...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 7 min
In this episode, we head to Bonita Springs, Florida, for an inside look at the Florida Citrus Mutual Annual Conference , where the heart of the Sunshine State’s citrus community gathered last week. From growers and packers to scientists, shippers, marketers, and environmental advocates—this event brought together the brightest minds and the most passionate people working to secure the future of Florida citrus. Host Patrick Kelly recaps the biggest moments from the conference, including groundbre...
Jun 16, 2025•27 min•Season 1Ep. 540
This Friday the 13th, there’s no superstition—just produce ambition! Ross and Dan are talking summer veg with Henry Dill of D’Arrigo Produce. What’s going down in Salinas? What should be going on your plate ? We’re serving up fresh updates and seasonal goodies— So tune in and turn on—it’s Fresh From the Field Fridays!
Jun 13, 2025•32 min
What does it really take to succeed in China’s booming fresh produce market? In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Annette Partida, a seasoned industry expert who spent twelve years living, working, and thriving in China. From mastering Mandarin to navigating complex cultural dynamics, Annette shares insider tips for anyone looking to export avocados, cherries, or other commodities into the world's fastest-growing import market. If you're serious about doing business in China, this is th...
Jun 11, 2025•45 min
The pineapple - today a familiar tropical fruit, boxed in lunch kits and blended in cocktails - was once the most exotic and awe-inspiring delicacy known to Europeans. Its journey from the hands of Indigenous cultivators in the rainforests of South America to the hothouses of Georgian England is a tale of exploration, obsession, imperial rivalry, and horticultural espionage. In this first episode of a two-part series, John and Patrick trace the pineapple’s origins to the Tupi-Guarani people, for...
Jun 10, 2025•57 min
In this special episode of The Produce Industry Podcast , host Patrick Kelly welcomes longtime friend and co-author Dr. Hans Finzel —renowned leadership expert and co-author of Millennial BOOM . Broadcasting live from Tampa , the two dive into Dr. Finzel’s iconic leadership book, Top 10 Mistakes Leaders Make , and explore what timeless leadership looks like in today’s fast-paced, generationally diverse world. From navigating the workplace gap between Boomers and Millennials to avoiding the pitfa...
Jun 09, 2025•52 min•Season 1Ep. 539
🌱 Fresh From the Field Fridays 🌽 This Week with Ross & Dan 🎙️ On the Mic: Ross and Dan are back, chatting all things fresh and local as the farmers markets open up across Indianapolis! From homegrown produce to artisan goods, it’s the best time of year to support your local food scene. 🗞️ In This Episode: Ross’s Recap of WCPE Get Ross’s take on the latest from the West Coast Produce Expo —insights, highlights, and what it means for your plate. What Is Local? Dan and Ross dig into the que...
Jun 06, 2025•25 min
Tariffs might seem like dusty matters for economists, but their effects on fresh produce have been anything but dry. In this episode, John and Patrick trace the surprising - and at times surreal - impact of American trade policy on fruits and vegetables. First, they dive into the Mongrel Tariff Act of 1883, where a tomato’s very identity was put on trial to decide whether it was a fruit or vegetable. Next it’s on to the chaos of the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, a protectionist gamble that backfired ...
Jun 03, 2025•51 min
Join host Patrick Kelly for a special milestone episode of The Produce Industry Podcast as he welcomes Caitlin Gerstenberger of Jac. Vandenberg, Inc. for her very first in-studio podcast appearance ! Recorded live from the Produce Industry Podcast Studio in Tampa, Florida , this episode dives into the story behind SUNRAYS® – the snack that gives back , Jac. Vandenberg’s leadership in sustainability , and hot topics like tariffs, trade , and what’s ahead for the industry. It’s authentic, insightf...
Jun 02, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 538
This week’s episode is coming to you straight from the desert heat and produce sweet! With Dan taking a well-deserved week off, Ross “The Produce Boss” is joined by a very special (and slightly mischievous) guest — Patrick Kelly , who’s officially hijacked the mic and taken over the show! Join Ross and Patrick as they dive into: 🚗 Grocery store adventures across the West Coast 🥝 The buzz and highlights from the West Coast Produce Expo 🍊 Behind-the-scenes moments from Palm Desert It’s a fun, f...
May 30, 2025•31 min
In this flavorful episode of the Global Fresh Series, Patrick Kelly joins the conversation to talk all things fresh—from trade show trends to air-fried tacos during Memorial Day. We also explore the rising international audience of the Global Fresh Series and celebrate a milestone moment for Marlene, the beloved "Daughter of the Alps," as she marks 30 years with VOG. Don’t miss the laughs, insights, and a few tasty surprises! First Class Sponsorship: Peak of the Market: https://p...
May 28, 2025•30 min
A new Pope has been chosen! And that got us thinking: have Popes of the past shaped the history of fruits and vegetables? In this month’s livestream, John and Patrick explore the surprising connections between the Papacy and produce. From Popes with a passion for fresh fruits to the hidden stories of the Vatican gardens, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the role of produce in the lives of history’s holiest leaders. ---------- In Sponsorship with Cornell University: Dyson Cornell SC Joh...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 5 min
In this powerful episode of The Produce Industry Podcast , host Patrick Kelly welcomes Paul Rice, former CEO of Fair Trade USA and a global leader in ethical trade, to discuss the role of Fairtrade in the fresh produce supply chain. With decades of experience fighting for fairness in farming, Paul shares the challenges and triumphs behind the global Fairtrade movement—and how it’s shaping the future of agriculture. Paul also introduces his compelling new book, “Every Purchase Matters,” which div...
May 26, 2025•44 min•Season 1Ep. 537
This week on Fresh From The Field Fridays from The Produce Industry Network and AgLife Media , Ross and Dan welcome the arrival of stone fruit season and spotlight fresh Memorial Day offerings. Special guest Chef Jeffery Schissel joins the guys to share some top-notch grilling tips and seasonal recipes. Then, it’s off to Sigona’s Produce to sample a perfectly ripe Cherimoya and grab one last taste of citrus with a juicy Gold Nugget Tangerine. The season’s changing—and we’re lovin’ it! So tune in...
May 23, 2025•32 min
Join us for a historic first as Global Women Fresh presents its first-ever Café Virtual in Spanish, bringing together voices that empower, uplift, and lead across the global produce industry. Hosted by the incredible Julie Escobar, Co-Founder of Global Women Fresh, and the inspiring Coach Jen Monterroso, this live segment highlights Latina leadership, connection, and community within the fresh produce space. Get ready for powerful insights, real stories, and an inclusive conversation focused on ...
May 22, 2025•28 min
In this episode of the Global Fresh Series , we take you on a tour of the international trade show circuit, diving into the key takeaways from Freshfel Europe’s sustainability-focused events and the innovation-packed Macfrut 2025 in Rimini. We also explore the booming global demand for fresh cherries , their emergence as a premium fruit, and how they’re shaping sourcing and strategy in key markets. Finally, we zoom in on China’s growing influence in the produce space — from skyrocketing cherry i...
May 21, 2025•31 min
We're back with Part 2 of our special coverage from the ROFDA Conference , and co-host Dan Avakian joins Patrick Kelly as we dive deeper into the innovation, collaboration, and leadership shaping the retail and wholesale produce space. In this episode, we sit down with a phenomenal lineup of guests including: 🥬 Brent Shammo – bringing insights on fresh strategies and customer engagement 🥕 Teresa Pope – sharing her perspective on supplier partnerships and sustainability 🍊 Miguel Herrera – expl...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Season 1Ep. 536
