Fresh Takes On Tech

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/

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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/

Step into the world of agricultural innovation with a unique perspective on The Connected Farm. In this special episode, the tables are turned as I join the ITSPmagazine Podcast for their CES 2024 Coverage. 

Listen in as we explore the evolving landscape of farming technology and the challenges farmers face in adopting new practices. You will learn the critical role of technology in addressing labor shortages, reducing waste, and enhancing food safety, revolutionizing the way we approach agriculture and sustainability.

• How technology has evolved over the years.
• How we’re working to counteract the labor issue in produce.
• The value in technological automation for weeds and picking.
• How technology can help to reduce waste.
• If food safety can be helped through technology.

• The Connected Farm: New Technology and Tools for Farmers to Reduce Waste and Optimize Work Cycle

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/

With a wealth of experience predating the widespread discussions on sustainability, Julie DiNatale, Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer at FMC Corporation, joins the show to share a look into FMC's commitment to sustainability. As the world faces the dual challenge of feeding a growing population while safeguarding our planet, FMC focuses on empowering farmers to achieve optimal results with minimal resources. In this episode, discover the crucial role stewardship plays in sustainable agriculture, bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and responsible farming practices.

You will learn about the foundations of regenerative agriculture, an outcomes-based approach aimed at enhancing soil health, biodiversity, and emissions reduction. Uncover the often-overlooked significance of crop protection in the broader context of climate solutions. Julie also sheds light on the vital support farmers need to transition successfully into regenerative agriculture, preparing them for the challenges posed by climate change.

• FMC’s sustainability commitments.
• The importance of creating solutions for farmers.
• How to make sustainable agriculture more widely accepted.
• The benefit of stewardship in the agricultural industry.
• How to help farmers prepare for climate change.
• The importance of education in where crops need to be protected.
• Why we must have crop protection solutions.
• How we can support farmers moving into regenerative agriculture.

Julie DiNatale: 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/

Today Suzy Friedman, Senior Director of Food Policy at the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), joins the show to share the organization's commitment to sustainability. In this episode, Suzy emphasizes that the ability to sustain our food sources relies fundamentally on healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. Suzy explains the urgency of adopting quick and accessible solutions for broader adaptation and explores how cutting-edge technologies are discovered to reach these sustainability goals.

You will learn the value of collaboration and collective effort in turning sustainability commitments into tangible actions. Suzy also sheds light on the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable communities and advocates for drawing wisdom from indigenous traditional ecological knowledge in climate-smart agriculture. Listen in as we dissect the critical considerations of equity and access in the pursuit of sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the need to restructure programs to address infrastructural requirements and ensure products reach the market effectively.

• The sustainability commitments of WWF.
• Why climate-smart agriculture is essential for the future of our planet.
• The importance of measuring our progress in sustainable agriculture.
• Why these solutions must be quick and easy for broader adaptation.
• How new technologies are found.
• How climate change impacts vulnerable communities.
• The benefit of learning from indigenous traditional ecological knowledge.
• How we can make sustainable agriculture more accessible.

Suzy Friedman: 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/

Join Bayer leaders, Cristiane Lourenço and Josh VanDeWalle, as they unveil Bayer Crop Science's commitment to sustainability and regenerative agriculture. They break down how sustainability aligns with Bayer's mission, exploring practical strategies for optimizing resources and leaving a positive impact on soil and communities.

You will learn about the transformative role of breeding techniques, offering growers sustainable production pathways. Listen in as they share the innovative business models contributing to climate-smart agriculture and how we can actively engage in practical solutions to global challenges.

• What Bayer’s primary sustainability commitments are.
• The difference between regenerative and climate-smart agriculture.
• How breeding is being used in vegetable seeds.
• The new business models that aim to contribute to climate-smart agriculture.
• The importance of making steps towards solutions rather than just talking about them.

Cristiane Lourenço: LinkedIn

Josh VanDeWalle: 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/

Today we are talking to Eric Morgan, Vice President of Environmental Science and Resources at Braga Fresh, and Charlie Dubbe, Head of Regenerative Partnerships at Agrology, winners of the IFPA Science and Tech Circle of Excellence Award. Their collaboration in regenerative agriculture has earned them this prestigious recognition. In this episode, they share insights on enhancing soil health, increasing CO2 respiration, and the broader positive effects on the environment.

Listen in to discover how their innovative approaches are addressing the growing demand for sustainable produce, driven by the changing climate and retailer pressures. You'll learn about the fascinating dynamics of soil respiration, carbon measurement, and the crucial role soil health plays in the pursuit of a greener, more sustainable future.

• How they are working to increase CO2 respiration.
• How carbon is measured.
• The importance of soil health.
• How their companies are working to solve this problem.
• What they are most excited about for the future.

Eric Morgan: LinkedIn

Charlie Dubbe: 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/

Discover the future of sustainability with Paul Lightfoot, the General Manager at Patagonia Provisions, in this episode. Paul's passion for sustainability, health and the well-being of our planet shines through as he explores the current state of sustainability efforts and the changes he believes are crucial for our planet. A shift towards climate-smart produce agriculture, emphasizing whole organic foods, and moving away from factory-farmed, meat-heavy and processed foods is at the forefront of this discussion. 

Organic produce plays a pivotal role in this transformation, promoting sustainability by avoiding synthetic inputs, enhancing farmer profits, fostering biodiversity, improving nutrition and protecting waterways. Listen in to learn about the benefits of regenerative organic produce, discover the pathways to secure funding and understand the certification process.

• How Paul began thinking about sustainability.
• What he thinks we are doing right in sustainability right now.
• What he believes we need to change or upgrade in terms of sustainability.
• The importance of shifting away from factory meats and processed foods.
• How organic produce can help the produce agriculture industry.
• The benefit of producing regenerative organic produce.

Paul Lightfoot: 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/