Fresh Takes On Tech

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 Takeaways
Seana 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Modernizing an agribusiness like Dave Wilson Nursery involves creating a comprehensive data backbone, evolving from outdated systems to a more agile, technology-enabled operation.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 succes

Guest Resources
Seana 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 Links
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/

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 Takeaways
Agentic 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 Resources
Elliott 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 Links
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 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 Takeaways
Agentic 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 Resources
Jared 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 Links
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/

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 Takeaways
Proof 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 Resources
Measure to Improve (MTI): Website
International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA): Website
USDA's Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP): USDA AMP Page

Embark 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 Links
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/

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 Takeaways
The 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 Resources
Elevated Foods
International 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 Links
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/