Today we sit down with Steven Cardoza, Owner of Cardoza & Cardoza Farming Company, as he shares his family's remarkable transition to organic and regenerative ag. Discover why they made the switch to organic farming back in 1998 and how embracing regenerative practices has revolutionized their approach to agriculture. From enhanced soil health to increased yield and quality, Steven explains the impact on their farm's ecosystem, highlighting the importance of holistic perspectives in addressing agricultural challenges.

Listen in as we explore the biggest hurdles faced during the transition, advice for engaging with organic growers, and the benefit of learning from experienced practitioners to navigate potential pitfalls. Whether you're a seasoned regenerative farmer or considering switching to regenerative practices, this episode offers guidance for cultivating sustainable agricultural systems.

• Why the Cardoza family transitioned their business to organic.
• What got Steven started on the regenerative agriculture journey.
• How their transition to regenerative agriculture has impacted the farm soil health.
• The biggest challenges they faced when switching over.
• The importance of looking at the entire ecosystem not just each individual problem.
• How to engage with an organic grower if you want to work with them.
• Advice for those wanting to start in regenerative agriculture.

• Steven Cardoza: LinkedIn

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

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LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

What is the future of crop protection? Join us as we sit down with Ben Cicora, Senior VP of Sales and Marketing at Vestaron, to explore the game-changing innovations in agriculture. Discover how Vestaron is leading the charge with peptide-based technologies, addressing pest issues and resistance problems while prioritizing safety and sustainability in the face of climate change. In this conversation, we explore the transformative potential of peptide-based crop protection, from understanding its differences from traditional insecticides to navigating pricing strategies and engaging with growers to meet their evolving needs.

Listen in to hear about the trials, testing procedures, and challenges of acceptance, and learn how Vestaron's products contribute to biodiversity and climate resilience in agriculture. Join us as we uncover the future of sustainable crop protection and its profound impact on the agricultural landscape.

• How peptide technologies differ from traditional synthetic insecticides.
• Why peptides are safer for the environment.
• The trials and testing procedures to test for effectiveness.
• How the pricing is worked out for these newer technologies.
• The biggest challenge of acceptance.
• How Vestaron engages with the growers to understand their needs.
• Who their main competitors are.
• How their products help with biodiversity and climate change.

• Ben Cicora: LinkedIn

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

How crucial is it for businesses to integrate sustainability practices into their operations? Today, we're joined by Nikki Cossio, Kyle Cosgrove, and Gabe Worthington from Measure to Improve to explore the significance of their partnership with IFPA on the climate-smart commodities grant. As pioneers in building successful sustainability programs, they shed light on why sustainability has become imperative, especially in the fresh produce industry. With new regulations emerging and buyers increasingly demanding sustainability metrics, staying ahead in sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity for remaining competitive.

In this episode, we discuss the origins of climate-smart agriculture and the essential practices that businesses need to adopt. From understanding how the risks are removed to measuring inputs and yields, Nikki, Kyle, and Gabe provide insights to enhance your organization's sustainability efforts. Whether you're just beginning or already have a sustainability team, you'll learn how to navigate the evolving landscape of sustainability and equip yourself with the tools needed to thrive in an increasingly eco-conscious market.

• What Measure to Improve does.
• How Measure to Improve is involved with the IFPA grant.
• Where the term climate-smart agriculture came from.
• The key climate-smart production practices that should be encouraged.
• How these incentives will encourage farmers to change their practices.
• How the risks are removed from the growers.
• The importance of measuring the inputs, outputs, and yields.

• Gabe Worthington: LinkedIn
• Nikki Cossio: LinkedIn
• Kyle Cosgrove: LinkedIn

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

In our milestone 100th episode, we're diving deep into the realm of climate-smart agriculture, a pivotal topic shaping the future of farming. Joining us are Max Teplitski, Chief Science Officer at the International Fresh Produce Association, and Drew Zabrocki, Managing Partner at TOTEM LTD. Together, we explore IFPA's ambitious climate-smart program, diving into its current status, anticipated outcomes, and the transformative benefits it offers.

From the essential role of soil health in crop cultivation to the challenges of data integration, we uncover how IFPA is bridging the gap between existing grower systems and innovative agricultural practices. As consumer consciousness drives demand for sustainable food production, we dissect the vital nexus between agriculture, climate, and consumer preferences. Reflecting on the evolving landscape of climate-smart agriculture, we emphasize the importance of education, flexibility, and patience in fostering widespread adoption.

• An overview of the Climate Smart Program at IFPA.
• The projected outcomes of this program.
• The benefits of this program.
• How they are bringing this system to farmers at scale.
• The importance of education and meeting people where they are.
• What the reaction of growers has been.
• How we can get signage up.

• Max Teplitski: LinkedIn
• Drew Zabrocki: LinkedIn

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Unlock the secrets of innovation and success in the produce industry with today's power-packed lineup! Join us as we dive into the world of cutting-edge technology and data solutions with Greg Gatzke and Thuan Ngo from ZAG Technical Services, Inc. Discover how their accelerated business growth strategies are reshaping the technological landscape and propelling the industry into the future.

Next up, we're joined by Amy Tranzillo and Ethan Meyers from AgroFresh, a trailblazing company providing integrated technologies for growers, packers, and retailers. Explore the innovative solutions that are driving success across the entire supply chain. Wrapping up this episode is Chris Jones, Principal at RSM. As a top advisor to middle-market leaders globally, RSM plays a crucial role in shaping the future of business. Listen in to learn how RSM navigates the complex landscape of providing valuable guidance, managing data responsibly, and ensuring the utmost importance of data security.

• Why data needs to be managed.
• How data can be used responsibly.
• How ZAG is making technology more accessible.
• The importance of security in data usage.
• How does someone gather data?
• How FreshCloud works.
• The value in having quality inspection of produce.
• The benefit of taking small steps towards change.

• Greg Gatzke: LinkedIn
• Thuan Ngo: LinkedIn
• Amy Tranzillo: LinkedIn
• Ethan Meyers: LinkedIn
• Chris Jones: LinkedIn
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

We're diving into the cutting-edge world of AgTech with a double feature in today's episode with two industry pioneers who are shaping the future. First up is Walt Duflock, VP of Innovation at Western Growers, a true trailblazer in the AgTech startup scene. Following Walt, we're honored to hear from Melissa Ackerman, CEO of Planet Harvest, on a mission to revolutionize the produce supply chain and make a positive impact on the environment, health, and society.

Listen in as we unravel the innovative landscape Walt is helping to craft and learn about the profound impact of technology on agriculture. From there, you will be inspired as Melissa shares the vision and passion behind her mission-driven company, highlighting the incredible value fresh fruits and vegetables offer to our healthcare structure.

• How technology is going to impact the agriculture industry.
• The importance of being innovative and ahead of the game.
• The benefit of collecting data and using it.
• Why simplicity and forward thinking are the keys to AgTech innovation.
• How technology fits into the new labor force in agriculture.
• The importance of being flexible and optimistic in what we can do.
• Why fresh produce should have a place in our healthcare structure.

• Walt Duflock: LinkedIn
• Melissa Ackerman: LinkedIn
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Take a look into the ever-evolving fresh produce industry in this episode featuring Andrew Kennedy, Co-Founder of New Era Partners, and Jeff Butler, General Manager of Silo Capital. Andrew shares his unique journey transitioning from the FDA to the private sector, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities of traceability in the food industry. From there, we delve into the world of Silo Capital with Jeff Butler, exploring the innovative platform's role in empowering buyers, growers, and shippers. 

Listen in to gain a deeper understanding of Silo's operations, its potential shift toward funding or software, and Jeff's journey from Amazon to the produce sector. You'll learn about the intricacies of sales in Silo and the profound significance Jeff places on face-to-face interactions. This episode spotlights companies revolutionizing the fresh produce landscape, providing you with a wealth of knowledge about the latest innovations and solutions in the industry.

• Andrew’s unique perspective on working with data.
• How the industry has shifted in its use of data.
• How people are reacting to having data that is shared.
• The benefits Andrew can see in the future from using this data.
• The challenges of working with traceability.
• Whether Jeff sees Silo becoming more of a funding or a software company moving forward.
• How sales work in Silo.
• How Jeff transitioned from Amazon to produce.
• Why Jeff believes face-to-face interactions are so important.

• Andrew Kennedy: LinkedIn
• Jeff Butler: LinkedIn
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Today we are taking a deep dive into the realm of technology in fresh produce and the remarkable advancements shaping the industry. In our first conversation, Gene Wisakowsky, CEO of Agniuity, Inc, reveals how their revolutionary horticulture lighting system is not just illuminating crops, but doing so with exceptional energy efficiency, setting a new standard in the field. Stay tuned to explore the path forward, lit by a full spectrum of possibilities.

Next, we venture into the world of vertical farming with Benjamin Weir, Director of Sales, and Emily Gee, Marketing Director of AeroFarms. Discover how AeroFarms is redefining the landscape of food production, offering a glimpse into the cutting-edge technologies transforming agriculture. Buckle up for a journey through AgTech and innovation, where each conversation paints a vivid picture of the future of fresh produce and the role technology plays in reshaping our approach to growing and consuming food.

• How Agniuity has taken horticulture lighting to the next level.
• How Gene discovered this way of enhancing crop growth.
• The ROI of using this innovative lighting system.
• What Gene learned that will change the way they go to market.
• Where AeroFarms is currently.
• What microgreens are.
• What is important to the consumer.
• How technology and AI will impact the industry moving forward.

• Gene Wisakowsky: LinkedIn
• Benjamin Weir: LinkedIn | AeroFarms
• Emily Gee: LinkedIn
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Join us today as we uncover the groundbreaking Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator Program, a platform propelling 12 revolutionary companies toward commercialization within the next 1-2 years. In this episode, our insightful guests share their journeys and their insights into the agricultural markets, and shed light on the invaluable advantages of participating in this accelerator program.

Listen in as we talk to James Ethington, CEO of Arable, who believes in the power of digitizing the analog world to revolutionize agriculture, ensuring sustainability, reducing environmental impact, and improving lives. Guillaume Wegria, Co-Founder & CEO of Fyteko, takes climate-smart agriculture to new heights by developing innovative biomolecules, while Kristine White, CEO of Spornado, introduces a game-changing crop disease early alert system, revolutionizing the way we approach sustainability.

• What Spornado is setting out to change.
• Why early crop disease spotting is important.
• How Spornado works.
• The motivation behind these initiatives.
• What Fyteko is working on.
• How the market is different in the USA versus Europe.
• The advantages of being a part of the program.
• The problems Arable hopes to change.
• Arable’s competitive advantage.

• James Ethington: LinkedIn | Arable
• Guillaume Wegria: LinkedIn | Fyteko
• Kristine White: LinkedIn | Spornado
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/

Today we are starting a journey into the heart of innovation with the inaugural episode of our special season, recorded live at the Global Produce & Floral Show. Throughout this season, join us for 2-4 interviews in each episode, featuring discussions with experts from groundbreaking companies and pioneers in cutting-edge technology within the produce and floral industry. These dynamic conversations offer quick glimpses into the innovative solutions addressing the industry's most pressing challenges. Whether you're a seasoned professional in the field or simply curious about the latest advancements, this season has something for everyone.

In this episode, we kick off with the Tip of the Iceberg Podcast, sharing insights into the accelerator program's purpose and impact. Following that, we explore Julian Godding's perspective as the Lead Data Scientist at Gardin, a pioneering company in the Fresh Field Catalyst Program. Lastly, we speak with Brandon Contino, CEO, and Co-Founder of Four Growers, as he shares his unique insights into the main pain points for growers.

• What the accelerator program entails.
• The benefits of participation.
• The purpose of the accelerator program.
• What Gardin is working on in terms of crop growth.
• Julian’s experience in the Fresh Field Catalyst Program.
• What Four Growers has set out to do in the industry.
• The major pain points of growers.

• Julian Godding: LinkedIn
• Brandon Contino: LinkedIn
• IFPA innovator Vonnie Estes on opening up the produce industry
• Global Produce & Floral Show

International Fresh Produce Association - https://www.freshproduce.com/

Fresh Takes on Tech - https://www.freshproduce.com/resources/technology/takes-on-tech-podcast/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/InternationalFreshProduceAssociation/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/IntFreshProduce/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/international-fresh-produce-association/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/intlfreshproduceassn/