Fresh Takes On Tech

Hosted by International Fresh Produce Association

Technology Arts Food Health FitnessInterviews guestsExplicit

Website RSS feed LinkedIn Instagram

Episodes

132

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

About the show

Welcome to Fresh Takes on Tech, a podcast from the International Fresh Produce Association. At IFPA, Our trade association represents companies from every segment of the global fresh produce and floral supply chain. We advocate, connect and guide to enhance members’ prosperity. This is a show for people interested in the intersection between technology and the produce and floral industries. Each episode we explore the problems, solutions, people and ideas that are shaping the industry.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 11, 202627 min

The Autonomy Shift: When AI Moves from Answering to Acting

Join host Vonnie Estes as she welcomes Rob Leclerc from AgFunder to discuss the transformative impact of Agentic AI on the venture capital industry. Delve into AgFunder's cutting-edge use of AI to innovate VC processes, manage portfolios, and streamline operations. With insights into the future of AI-driven investments and real-world use cases, this episode explores how AgFunder is harnessing AI for strategic advantage, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of venture capital. Discover the potential of AI as a game-changer in food tech and beyond.Key TakeawaysAgFunder leverages AI to streamline its venture capital processes, optimizing research, deal sourcing, and portfolio management.Rob Leclerc highlights the evolution from traditional to agentic AI, describing significant disruptions in the VC landscape.Agentic AI allows AgFunder to automate complex tasks, equipping it to manage a plethora of articles and data-driven decisions.The potential for AIs to conduct recursive self-improvement and the implications on the future of venture capital are explored.Rob envisions a future where AI agents negotiate and collaborate, representing both startups and investors in the VC ecosystem.Guest ResourcesRob Leclerc is a co-founder of AgFunder, a venture capital firm focused on food tech, climate tech, and agricultural innovation. With around $300 million in assets under management, AgFunder invests primarily in seed and Series A funding rounds, emphasizing transformative technologies in food and agriculture. Rob holds a master's degree in AI and virtual robotics and a PhD in computational biology and evolutionary biology from Yale University. As a leading figure in the venture capital landscape, Rob has a distinguished track record in leveraging technology to drive significant advancements in the agtech and foodtech sectors.Show LinksInternational 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/

August 4, 202625 min

Starting with the Problem: The Key to Unlocking AI Success in AgTech

Vonnie Estes hosts a conversation with Shail Khiyara, CEO of Swarm, exploring the transformative potential of agentic AI in agriculture. Khiyara shares insights on how Swarm's decision intelligence solutions optimize supply chain logistics and workforce planning, enhancing efficiency in various agricultural sectors. The discussion emphasizes the importance of starting with business problems rather than AI, capturing institutional knowledge, and the value of domain-specific AI solutions over generic alternatives. They highlight practical strategies for integrating AI in agriculture to boost margins and decision-making processes.Key TakeawaysVertical Domain AI Solutions: Swarm focuses on vertical domain-specific AI, providing tailored solutions that learn and adapt to specific business environments over time, particularly in agriculture.Start with Business Problems: Businesses should identify core problems needing AI solutions, rather than fixating solely on data cleanup and standard AI applications.AI and Institutional Knowledge: Utilizing AI to capture the decision-making prowess of experienced operators enhances sustainability and knowledge retention within agricultural entities.AI as a Springboard: Companies can treat AI investment as a strategic asset to significantly improve efficiency and profitability, without overhauling existing processes.Human in the Loop: In agriculture, AI is intended to augment human expertise, respecting the complex biological systems intrinsic to the field.Guest ResourcesShail Khiyara is the CEO of Swarm, a decision intelligence company specializing in leveraging AI technology to tackle complex operational and business challenges across various industries, including agriculture and agri-food sectors. With extensive experience in heavy industrial operations such as oil, gas, and infrastructure megaprojects, Shail's oversight is driven by the critical need for precision and safety in decision-making. Under his leadership, Swarm has developed domain-specific AI solutions that transcend common technological hype and directly address customer needs in optimizing supply chain logistics and workforce planning.Show LinksInternational 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/

July 28, 202637 min

Unlocking the Secrets of Physical AI in Agriculture

Delve into the transformative world of AI in the produce industry with host Vonnie Estes and guest Steve Statler, CEO of AmbientChat AI. Explore the intersection of AI, IoT, and supply chains, focusing on how agentic AI can revolutionize food logistics by enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving consumer experiences. Gain insights into the implications of data ownership, AI standards, and the evolving dynamics between tech giants and traditional players. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the future of food supply chains and the vital role of AI.Key TakeawaysAgentic AI: Moves beyond data visibility, offering actionable insights and system-wide improvements in the produce supply chain.Data Ownership: Crucial for leveraging AI technologies in supply chains; businesses must ensure control over their data to retain agency.Physical AI in Logistics: Innovations like sensor-tagged shipping crates drastically improve supply chain efficiency and minimize waste.Consumer Empowerment: AI can customize and optimize food buying decisions, potentially increasing fresh produce consumption.European Initiatives: Europe's efforts in digital product passports may set a global standard for ethical data management in supply chains.Guest ResourcesSteve Statler is the CEO of AmbientChat AI and the host of the Mr. Beacon podcast. With an extensive background at the intersection of AI, ambient IoT, traceability, and supply chains, Steve is a recognized thought leader in the technology sector. His previous work with Wiliot, an Israeli semiconductor company, highlighted his innovation in ambient IoT, pioneering advances like affordable and ubiquitous temperature-sensing tags. Steve is passionate about the transformative potential of AI in physical supply chains, seeking to enhance efficiency and sustainability.Show LinksInternational 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/

July 21, 202633 min

Building the Data Foundation: Modernizing Ag from the Ground Up

Vonnie Estes hosts Seana Day, CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery, on "Fresh Takes on Tech." Seana shares her journey from investment banking to leading a longstanding tree nursery business, tackling challenges of modernizing legacy systems. Discover how Shauna used her tech and finance background to revolutionize the nursery industry, focusing on data-driven decision-making and enhancing customer outcomes. The conversation delves into integrating AI and technology to address implementation challenges in agtech, offering valuable insights for industry stakeholders. Tune in for a comprehensive look at transforming traditional agricultural practices.Key TakeawaysSeana Day transitioned from investment banking to agtech innovation, eventually becoming CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery, showcasing her diverse career in finance and agriculture.The critical role of a nursery in the specialty crop supply chain is often underestimated, as nurseries are integral in helping growers select and commercialize fruit and nut varieties.Modernizing an agribusiness like Dave Wilson Nursery involves creating a comprehensive data backbone, evolving from outdated systems to a more agile, technology-enabled operation.Successfully driving change in a nursery business requires strong leadership, effective communication, and involving staff in the design and implementation processes.Agtech companies often falter in implementation and onboarding; treating these aspects with the same care as product development can greatly enhance adoption and succesGuest ResourcesSeana Day is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in investment banking, agtech innovation, and agriculture. She has worked at the intersection of technology, finance, and agribusiness, transitioning from evaluating agricultural technologies to hands-on leadership as the CEO of Dave Wilson Nursery. Her career spans roles across investment banking, agtech investment strategies, and advisory capacities. At Dave Wilson Nursery, she brings her expertise to revitalize and innovate within this longstanding tree nursery business, applying her knowledge to drive modernization and operational transformation.Show LinksInternational 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/

July 14, 202633 min

Unleashing Agentic AI: Revolutionizing Food & Agriculture

Vonnie Estes hosts Elliott Grant on Fresh Takes on Tech to explore the revolutionary potential of agentic AI in the food and agriculture sectors. Unlike generative AI, agentic AI autonomously sets goals and executes tasks, transforming processes from pricing negotiations to supply chain efficiency. The conversation delves into how this technology could level the playing field between small suppliers and large retailers, optimize consumer choices for health and sustainability, and fundamentally reshape industry dynamics. Grant also previews his upcoming book, "Eating Tomorrow: AI and the Future of Food."Key TakeawaysAgentic AI vs. Traditional AI: Agentic AI is designed to independently set goals, plan, and execute tasks, unlike existing AI that primarily provides information based on prompts.Potential in Agriculture: Agentic AI could revolutionize agricultural processes, from disease diagnosis to optimizing supply chains, offering actionable insights and automation.Levelling the Playing Field: Smaller producers may benefit from agentic AI as it could provide them with negotiation power comparable to larger corporations, fostering fairness.Consumer Impact: This AI advancement could lead to healthier consumer choices by aligning shopping behaviors with nutrition and sustainability insights.Transparency and Trust: Ensuring that agent discussions are transparent and follow clear protocols is essential for acceptance and success in real-world applications.Guest ResourcesElliott Grant is a distinguished professional who has consistently operated at the intersection of technology, agriculture, food, and data. He has an impressive track record of leading agricultural technology companies and delving deeply into food-related decision-making processes. Currently, Elliot is exploring significant shifts in AI, particularly the transition of AI from being a mere information tool to becoming an active agent capable of making decisions, taking actions, and negotiating autonomously. Elliot is also an author with a forthcoming book that encompasses various dimensions of AI, including a chapter focused on agentic AI. He continues to contribute valuable insights into the fresh produce industry while engaging with cutting-edge technology sectors.Show LinksInternational 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/

July 7, 202628 min

The Future of Produce: Infor and the Agentic AI Revolution

In this enlightening episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," hosted by Vonnie Estes, the discussion orbits around the transformative role of Agentic AI in the food and agriculture industries. Special guest Jared Helenic from Infor brings valuable insights into how agentic AI can redefine enterprise operations and decision-making in produce companies. As companies struggle to integrate AI into their workflows while maintaining operational stability and security, Jared delineates a balanced approach to adopting this technology strategically and efficiently.Explore the journey of implementation and the strategic nuances of adopting agentic AI within produce companies. Discover how enterprise workflow and decision-making are poised to change dramatically with AI advancements, breaking away from generic AI's limitations. By delving into aspects like data fragmentation, the importance of holistic approaches over isolated use cases, and the future landscape of food and agriculture, this episode sheds light on why operational efficiency and governance in AI are indispensable. Stay engaged to understand how your company might seamlessly transition to leveraging agentic AI effectively.Key TakeawaysAgentic AI versus Generative AI: Unlike generic generative AI models, Agentic AI can execute tasks autonomously and more contextually, like a private chef preparing a dish from start to finish while tailoring it to specific needs.Integration Critical for Success: For successful AI implementation, all enterprise systems need to be interconnected. Disparate systems lead to inefficiencies and increased risk of errors or "hallucinations."Holistic vs. Isolated Use Cases: Companies are encouraged to target entire business units, such as finance or operations, rather than focusing on isolated use cases for impactful AI adoption.Role-Based Access and Security: Proper governance and security are paramount. Setting up role-based access can prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, promoting trust in AI systems.Guest ResourcesJared Helenic is an expert working at the intersection of food operations, AI, automation, and innovation strategy at Infor. Infor is one of the largest ERP companies worldwide, focusing on manufacturers, distributors, and service companies, particularly in the food and beverage sector. Jared has been instrumental in integrating AI, machine learning, and automation into operational strategies, helping businesses optimize their processes for increased profitability and efficiency.Show LinksInternational 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/

April 28, 202626 min

The Growth Revolution: Scaling Regenerative Agriculture for a Sustainable Future

Dive into regenerative agriculture with host Vonnie Estes as she explores the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. Guests Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove from Measure to Improve discuss the importance of implementing sustainable practices on farms, the challenges growers face, and how AMP bridges the gap between farm practices and market recognition. This episode highlights the collaborative efforts needed across the supply chain to empower growers, enhance sustainability, and foster market demand. Listen to discover how regenerative agriculture is reshaping the future of farming and produce industry.Key TakeawaysProof of Concept: The AMP program aims to establish viable conservation practices that work across different farms and environments, providing growers with confidence in their sustainability investments.Supply Chain Education: There is a need for alignment and clarity among supply chain stakeholders concerning terms like "sustainable" and "regenerative," ensuring everyone speaks the same language.Risk Reduction: The program offers financial and technical support to mitigate the risks growers face when trialing new practices.Storytelling Importance: Effective communication of sustainability efforts is crucial in connecting farm practices to market value and consumer understanding.Farmer-First Approach: While centered on growers' needs, the initiative demands active participation from the entire supply chain for holistic success.Guest ResourcesMeasure to Improve (MTI): WebsiteInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): WebsiteUSDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP): USDA AMP PageEmbark on this informative journey as Vonnie Estes and her guests, Nikki Cossio and Kyle Cosgrove, discuss these crucial themes in agriculture today. Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and stay tuned to Fresh Takes on Tech for more engaging discussions on the future of food and agriculture.Show LinksInternational 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/

April 14, 202626 min

Inside the AMP Initiative: Building Markets that Work for Growers

Episode Summary:In this episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," host Vonnie Estes delves into the significant themes of regenerative agriculture and market opportunities for growers engaged in climate-smart practices. The episode specifically highlights the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program, showcasing its attempt to forge tangible market value for sustainable farming practices. Featured guest Peter Wells from Elevated Foods shares insights into his company's role within this program, focusing on how they aggregate products from multiple growers to reach new consumer markets.Elevated Foods is actively contributing to resolving the disconnect between sustainable agricultural practices and market incentives by developing commercial supply chains linking growers with consumers and buyers. The discussion centers on the innovative approaches that Elevated Foods is pursuing, such as nutrient density testing, and the emphasis on local and regional food systems. Wells discusses the challenges and successes encountered, particularly with data collection and market engagement, providing listeners with a detailed view of the company's strategic initiatives.Key TakeawaysThe USDA's AMP program aims to connect climate-smart agricultural practices with real market value for growers by fostering collaborations among producers, buyers, and supply chain partners.Elevated Foods focuses on aggregating produce from multiple growers to enter new markets, relying on storytelling and local food systems to differentiate their products.Nutrient density testing is an innovative approach being utilized by Elevated Foods to highlight the quality and health benefits of sustainably grown produce.The challenges of data collection have been alleviated somewhat by recent changes to the program, enabling more efficient engagement with growers.There is significant interest from growers in adopting sustainability practices, and buyers are intrigued by the potential for differentiation through these practices in the marketplace.Guest ResourcesElevated FoodsInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)For those intrigued by the interplay between sustainable agriculture and market forces, this episode offers a deep dive into the solutions and opportunities being explored. Listen to the full episode to gain further insights and stay tuned for more discussions that push the boundaries of innovation in the food and agricultural sectors.Show LinksInternational 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/

April 9, 202625 min

Unlocking the Secrets of Regen Ag: A USDA-Supported Effort Shaping Agriculture’s Future

Dive into the world of regenerative agriculture with host Vonnie Estes and guest Tamara Muruetagoiena, VP of sustainability at IFPA, as they discuss the latest developments in regenerative practices. Learn about the USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers grant and its impact on the produce industry. Discover how California and Washington state growers are adopting innovative practices, reducing risks, and exploring new market opportunities. Explore the economic benefits and market potential of regenerative agriculture, while supporting sustainability and environmental efforts across the supply chain.Key TakeawaysThe IFPA is working with the USDA on a grant to promote regenerative agriculture practices among specialty crop growers in California and Washington.This initiative aims to reduce the financial risk for growers trying sustainable practices, offering compensation and measuring outcomes like yield and soil health.Regenerative agriculture practices align closely with the increasing market demand, giving growers a competitive edge in sustainability storytelling.The program engages with the entire supply chain, actively involving retailers to enhance market access for regenerative agriculture products.The wealth of data and real-world application from this initiative will provide robust insights into future agricultural practices.Guest ResourcesInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): WebsiteDiscover how regenerative agriculture is shaping the future of the produce industry by listening to the full episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on the intersection of food, technology, and sustainability on Fresh Takes on Tech.Show LinksInternational 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/

March 10, 202626 min

Data Driven Decisions: The Global Intelligence Engine Revolutionizes Produce Insights

In this episode of "Fresh Takes on Tech," hosted by Vonnie Estes, Rachel Blake from the International Fresh Produce Association shares her insights on the transformative power of the Global Intelligence Engine. This episode delves into the intersection of artificial intelligence and the agricultural sector, revealing how technology is reshaping the produce industry's approach to data and decision-making. Rachel provides an in-depth look at how this innovative platform is addressing the rapidly changing dynamics of global trade and consumer behavior.The discussion spotlights the critical role artificial intelligence plays in the produce industry, especially amidst factors like climate change, inflation, and shifting consumer preferences. Rachel explains the comprehensive capabilities of the Global Intelligence Engine, including its ability to provide data-backed insights tailored to individual member needs. The engine combines proprietary consumer trend data with POS sales data from Circana, setting it apart as a reliable resource for members navigating market complexities. Rachel emphasizes the engine's unique ability to provide reliable insights, unlike generic market reports or public dashboards, underscoring its importance in making informed business decisions.Key TakeawaysThe Global Intelligence Engine is an AI-enabled platform that provides reliable, data-backed insights for the fresh produce and floral industries, allowing for highly customized decision-making.The platform integrates proprietary consumer trend data and US retail POS data, providing unparalleled insights into consumer behavior and market trends.The engine's capabilities are particularly vital in today's rapidly changing global trade and consumer environment, offering valuable predictive insights.Trust and security are prioritized in the Global Intelligence Engine, ensuring that member queries remain confidential and the data remains reliable.Ongoing advancements in the platform include expanding market data access and potentially integrating global policy and regulatory information to further benefit members.Guest ResourcesInternational Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)Listeners are encouraged to tune into this insightful episode to learn more about how cutting-edge technology is shaping the future of the produce industry. Don’t forget to subscribe to “Fresh Takes on Tech” for more engaging discussions on innovation in agriculture.Show LinksInternational 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/