Best Cynthia Neal Podcasts (2024)

1
110: Reusable Packaging, Supply Chain Innovation, and Collaborative Solutions with Tim Debus 29:43

5h ago29:43

29:43

What are the benefits of using reusable packaging versus traditional single-use packaging? Join us as Tim Debus, President & CEO of the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA), explores this crucial question. RPA is a nonprofit trade organization that promotes the common and pro-competitive interests of member suppliers and users of reusable packaging…

1
109: Leading Change, Sustainable Packaging, and Global Outlook with Rachel Depree 34:04

2d ago34:04

34:04

What can we learn from a company that supplies premium quality kiwi to over 50 markets worldwide? Today, Rachel Depree, Executive Officer of Sustainability at Zespri, joins the show to share insights from her role at a company that manages 30% of the global volume of kiwis. Learn about Zespri's unique financial relationship with their growers, Rach…

1
108: How Industry Collaboration and Technological Innovation Impact Sustainable Packaging with Garland Perkins 30:27

9d ago30:27

30:27

Today Garland Perkins, Director of Innovation and Sustainability at The Oppenheimer Group (Oppy), shares insights into the challenges and solutions surrounding sustainable packaging. Learn about the importance of balancing product protection with environmental considerations and why simply eliminating plastic isn't necessarily the answer. Garland e…

1
107: Sustainable Packaging, AI-Driven Material Discovery, and Robotics with Po-Yen Chen 23:12

16d ago23:12

23:12

How can cutting-edge technology revolutionize packaging for fresh produce? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Po-Yen Chen, Assistant Professor at the University of Maryland, to explore how his lab is leveraging AI and flexible robotic technologies to discover and develop new functional materials. By implementing active learning frameworks with r…

1
106: Emerging Trends in Sustainable Packaging with Max Teplitski and Andrew Stephens 29:33

23d ago29:33

29:33

Are you passionate about fresh, healthy produce and a cleaner planet? In this first episode of our six-part series, we highlight the vital connection between packaging practices in the produce industry and the urgent need for sustainability. We'll explore the delicate balance between ensuring top-quality, pathogen-free products and reducing the env…

1
105: Partnerships and Collaborations to Elevate Food with Peter Wells 23:43

1M ago23:43

23:43

Today we're joined by Peter Wells, Chief Strategy Director at Elevated Foods, who shares insights into the company's innovative approach to agriculture. Discover how Elevated Foods measures success with new sustainability practices and how the USDA’s Partnerships for Climate Smart Commodities grant has impacted them. Listen in as Peter delves into …

1
104: Embracing the Principles of Nature Farming with Wiam Haddad 35:49

2M ago35:49

35:49

What does it take to transform a leading agricultural company into a beacon of sustainability? In this episode, we talk with Wiam Haddad, Systems Ecologist at ZZ2, a renowned agricultural company in South Africa committed to environmental stewardship. Join us as we explore ZZ2's journey towards climate-smart agriculture, delving into the strategies…

1
103: How to Get Started in Regenerative Agriculture with Steven Cardoza 25:24

2M ago25:24

25:24

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 i…

1
102: Revolutionizing Crop Protection with Ben Cicora 25:15

2M ago25:15

25:15

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…

1
101: Sustainable Agriculture Strategies with Measure to Improve 24:51

3M ago24:51

24:51

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, …

1
100: Charting the Path to Climate-Smart Agriculture 26:06

3M ago26:06

26:06

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 progra…

1
Short Takes on Tech 06: Pioneering Innovations in Produce Industry Tech 38:11

6M ago38:11

38:11

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 an…

1
Short Takes on Tech 05: AgTech Revolution 26:41

6M ago26:41

26:41

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 mis…

1
Short Takes on Tech 04: Navigating Traceability and Innovation in the Produce Industry 24:36

6M ago24:36

24:36

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 i…

1
Short Takes on Tech 03: Illuminating AgTech Innovations in Fresh Produce 24:43

6M ago24:43

24:43

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 …

1
Short Takes on Tech 02: Inside the Fresh Field Catalyst Accelerator Program 34:56

6M ago34:56

34:56

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 par…

1
Short Takes on Tech 01: Harvesting Innovation from the Global Produce & Floral Show 37:48

6M ago37:48

37:48

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 prod…

1
Special Episode: The Connected Farm: New Technology and Tools for Farmers to Reduce Waste and Optimize Work Cycle 30:41

6M ago30:41

30:41

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 …

1
89: Nurturing Growth: Supporting Farmers in Climate-Smart Solutions with Julie DiNatale 23:29

7M ago23:29

23:29

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 focus…

1
88: Cultivating a Greener Tomorrow: Climate-Smart Agriculture Initiatives for a Sustainable Future with Suzy Friedman 27:09

7M ago27:09

27:09

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 acce…

1
87: Bayer's Commitment to Regenerative Agriculture and Climate-Smart Solutions 29:13

8M ago29:13

29:13

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…

1
86: Revolutionizing Agriculture: Award-Winning Regenerative Practices with Braga Fresh and Agrology 37:18

8M ago37:18

37:18

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, t…

1
85: Regenerative Organic: A Path to a Healthier Planet with Paul Lightfoot 25:26

8M ago25:26

25:26

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-…

1
84: Driscoll’s Global Commitments and Climate-Smart Strategies with Marta Baptista 21:08

8M ago21:08

21:08

Marta Baptista, Global Director of Strategic Research and Technology Adoption at Driscoll’s, joins the show to share the core sustainability commitments of the renowned berry producer. Driscoll’s has dedicated itself to the principle of "more berries, less resources," highlighting specific global priorities. They aim for a remarkable 30% increase i…

1
83: The Path to Climate-Smart Agriculture with Renée Vassilos 31:22

9M ago31:22

31:22

How do we usher in a more sustainable and climate-resilient future for agriculture? This season, we embark on a journey through climate-smart agriculture (CSA) to explore the solutions and innovations driving change. In our inaugural episode, we dive deep into the world of CSA with Renée Vassilos, Director of Agriculture Innovation at The Nature Co…

1
82: Charting the Future of Sustainable Packaging: IFPA Expert Insights 33:38

9M ago33:38

33:38

Welcome to the final episode of our 6-part series on green packaging. In this episode, we are joined by two experts from the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), Max Teplitski, the Chief Science Officer, and Tamara Muruetagoiena, the Director of Sustainability. Together, they provide insights into sustainable packaging, addressing the te…

1
81: Life Cycle Assessments in Packaging Sustainability with Wyatt Maysey 20:51

9M ago20:51

20:51

Wyatt Maysey, Director of Sustainability for Taylor Farms, joins the show to continue our conversation about sustainable packaging. Wyatt's extensive background in sustainability and his commitment to considering the entire life cycle of a product provide a unique perspective. In this episode, he shares valuable insights into the concept of renewab…

1
80: Compostable Revolution: Sustainable Solutions to Plastic Waste with John Paap 31:32

9M ago31:32

31:32

Have you ever wondered about the shift toward compostable materials and their role in reducing plastic waste? Join us in this episode with John Paap, a multifaceted expert in the industry, as he delves into the driving factors behind compostables and their advantages. In this conversation, John paints a vivid picture of the current state of plastic…

1
79: Redefining Sustainability, Flavor, and Impact in Food with Simply Good Jars 29:05

10M ago29:05

29:05

Joining the show today is Jared Cannon, the visionary CEO of Simply Good Jars, a company founded on the belief that food can be a catalyst for global change. Jared shares the journey of introducing salads to a broader audience while enhancing access to healthy food through portability, convenience, and value. Discover how Simply Good Jars is commit…

1
78: Compostable Concerns: The Future of PLU Stickers in a Sustainable Produce Industry 25:36

10M ago25:36

25:36

Today we are talking about PLU stickers—those tiny, ubiquitous labels on our fruits and vegetables. For those in the produce industry, they are well-known, but for others, PLU stickers ensure pricing accuracy for loose produce in supermarkets. Each sticker boasts a Price Look Up (PLU) code, a cashier's tool for identifying products quickly. Recentl…

1
77: Sustainable Packaging: Balancing Quality, Safety, and the Environment with Adam Hollowell 27:49

10M ago27:49

27:49

Welcome to the inaugural episode of a six-part season that sheds light on the crucial intersection of packaging practices within the produce industry and the pressing imperative for sustainability. Join us on this journey as we navigate the intricate balance between delivering high-quality, pathogen-free products and minimizing the environmental im…

1
76: Providing Fresh Produce to Underserved Communities & Measuring the Environmental Impact of Last Mile Changes 35:04

1y ago35:04

35:04

In this episode we speak with Max Teplitski and Mollie Van Lieu and discuss the challenges of increasing access to healthy produce in underserved communities. They explore the role of programs like SNAP, WIC, and produce prescriptions, as well as the need for public-private partnerships and technological solutions to address food waste. The convers…

1
75: How Multigenerational Produce Industry Leaders Continue to Innovate While Maintaining Tradition 36:07

1y ago36:07

36:07

In this episode, three leaders from multigenerational family businesses in the produce industry share their experiences and insights on how they have maintained and evolved their businesses in the face of unique challenges. They talk about the importance of keeping up with industry trends like sustainability and technology, while balancing the need…

1
74: How Plenty and Local Bounti are Innovating and Tackling Last Mile Challenges 41:56

1y ago41:56

41:56

In this podcast episode, Jill Carlson from Plenty and Brian Cook from Local Bounti share their innovative approaches to indoor vertical farming. They discuss the benefits of year-round production and the ability to grow in locations that are not typically arable. The companies are committed to sustainability, with Plenty focused on reducing waste a…

1
73: Navigating Perishable Logistics and Food Insecurity with Katsiroubas Brothers and Fresh Connect 29:16

1+ y ago29:16

29:16

This episode brings together experts to discuss their innovative solutions to address food insecurity and improve access to fresh, healthy food for those in need. You’ll learn about Katsiroubas Brothers' use of technology to increase efficiency in produce distribution, and how About Fresh's Fresh Connect program provides prepaid debit cards and mob…

1
72: Fresh Produce, Fresh Ideas: Exploring the Cutting-Edge World of Last Mile Distribution with Greg Corsaro & Jim Reynolds 51:30

1+ y ago51:30

51:30

In this episode dives we dive deep into the ever-evolving produce industry, uncovering the secrets to success of two leading companies and the innovative trends driving the future of fresh food. We explore the challenges of labor constraints and inflation, and how companies like Fresh Edge and Pacific Coast Fruit Company have adapted to stay ahead.…

1
71. The Last Mile: Innovation and Challenges for Produce Delivery to Consumers, Foodservice, and Retail 27:53

1+ y ago27:53

27:53

Host Vonnie Estes speaks with the team at Produce Alliance and dives deep into the fast-paced and ever-changing world of the fresh produce industry. From innovations in packaging to third-party delivery services, the team explores the impact of the pandemic and other factors on the industry. They also discuss how technology has enabled the movement…

1
Bonus - Future of Agriculture Ep353: Connecting Tech Entrepreneurs to the Produce Industry with Vonnie Estes 38:00

1+ y ago38:00

38:00

In this bonus episode we share Vonnie Estes appearance on the Future of Agriculture podcast, hosted by Tim Hammerich. We explore the challenges facing the produce industry, including climate change, labor shortages, and changing consumer preferences, and how innovation and technology can address these issues. We discuss the importance of understand…

1
70. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: Making Better Qualitative Decisions With Best-In-Class Software Solutions 33:30

1+ y ago33:30

33:30

We are talking with Justin Machell (CEO, Highland Ag Solutions) & Cole Powers (Co-Founder, IntelliCulture) Join us as we discuss: Best practices for producers to manage their equipment lifecycle How to prevent pest outbreaks, and increase labor efficiency The benefits of automating the machine management process Segment 1 - Justin Machell (Highland…

1
69. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: Tackling Carbon Emissions, Improving Back-Office Processes and the Importance of Cyber-Security 29:24

1+ y ago29:24

29:24

We are talking with Lydia Ashburn (Growth Marketing, CarbonSpace), Kaitlin Mercier (VP of Partnerships, Routeique) Greg Gatzke (President, ZAGtech) Join us as we discuss: Developing best-in-class standards for carbon monitoring Understanding how to improve and enhance back-office processes and automation The importance of cyber-security and how to …

1
68. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: New Innovations Improving All Aspects of Our Produce Supply Chain 32:36

1+ y ago32:36

32:36

We are talking with Mike Meinhardt (EVP of Sales, Provision Analytics), Karen Long (VP of Sales, iFoodDS), and Diane Wetherington (Founder & CEO, iDecisionSciences) Join us as we discuss: Efforts being made to digitize all touch points in the produce supply chan cycle Updates on new initiatives to improve safety and traceability Work being done to …

1
67. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: New Technology Spurring Innovations in Produce Shelf Life & Repurposing Waste 31:54

1+ y ago31:54

31:54

We are talking with Kaitlin Mogentale of Pulp Pantry, Charles Swartz of Compact Membrane Systems and Jeff Beegle of mobius. Join us as we discuss: Opportunities for repurposing fruit and vegetable pulp into nutrient rich foods Technology advancements to help fruits and vegetables stay fresher, longer New uses for produce waste to be repurposed in t…

1
66. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: Technology’s Critical Role in Local Produce and Controlled Environment Farming 32:16

1+ y ago32:16

32:16

Live from IFPA’s Global Show: Technology’s Critical Role in Local Produce and Controlled Environment Farming A very special live podcast from IFPA’s 2022 Floral and Produce show! We are talking with Craig Hurlbert and Dave Vosburg of Local Bounti, John Purcell of Unfold, and Ali Daniali of HRVSTS. Join us as we discuss: Networking at a global level…

1
65. Live from IFPA’s Global Show: Technology’s Critical Role in Fresh Produce 33:02

1+ y ago33:02

33:02

A very special live podcast from IFPA’s 2022 Floral and Produce show! We close out our season on nutrition with a panel of experts with Vonnie on the lasting impact technology has made and continues to grow on for the farming and fresh produce industries. Our panel includes Haven Baker, CBO at Pairwise, Jenny Du, Senior Vice President for Governmen…

1
64. How the Purple Tomato is Expanding Biotechnology in Produce 33:42

1+ y ago33:42

33:42

The market for fresh and delicious produce is continuing to expand thanks to innovations in biotechnology. The latest in produce expansion is the purple tomato! Thanks to Nathan Pumplin, President and CEO at Norfolk Health Produce, the purple tomatoes' nutritious qualities will be reaching markets as early as 2023 and it’s all thanks to the innovat…

1
63. Creating More Produce in the World for Global Access 31:08

1+ y ago31:08

31:08

The limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables is the biggest reason consumers aren’t getting their recommended daily requirements of produce. With the help of Tom Adams, CEO at Pairwise, they are innovating through technological advances in the farming and growing industries to help expand and increase access to fresh produce for everyday consu…

1
62. Food is Medicine: Expanding Access to Fruits and Vegetables 32:42

2y ago32:42

32:42

From government programs to private sector initiatives, giving people access to options for healthy food choices is a big challenge. Thanks to our guest Sam Hoeffler, Program Manager at Reinvestment Partners, the Eat Well program helps families throughout North Carolina not just by giving access to purchase healthy food choices but also provides fu…

1
61. Developing New Produce for Consumer Delight and Nutrition 32:29

2y ago32:29

32:29

Some of the most nutritious food on Earth is unfortunately some of the toughest produce to grow. With the help of Joyce Van Eck, Associate Professor at Boyce Thompson Institute, the practice of gene editing in crops is better understood by farmers and other growers to increase production and access to highly nutritious crops. Join us as we discuss:…

1
60. Back to School with Fresh Produce 45:58

2y ago45:58

45:58

Students are heading back to school, but don’t forget about one of the most important parts of the day - - lunch! Thanks to Fred Espinosa , Director of Food and Nutrition for the San Diego Unified School District and Janelle Manzano , Specialist for the Farm to School Program, students are getting access and education to the “full plate” of their l…

1
59. Locally Grown Through Vertical Farming 37:49

2y ago37:49

37:49

Growing crops at full capacity is one of the many extreme challenges for farmers. But there are innovations that help them create new techniques to meet these challenges head on — like vertical farming. With the help of Netled and Kasey Snyder, Sales Operations Manager, they are expanding the innovation of vertical farming to help farmers grow thei…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Cynthia Neal Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide