We're delighted to have produce manager Ryan Vann, produce regional supervisor Jason Riggs, and vice president of produce operations Mike Roberts — all from Harps Food Stores — as our guests this week. The International Fresh Produce Association has recognized Ryan as one of the best in the business, naming him among 20 honorees this year for its Retail Produce Manager Awards Program. In this episode, Ryan discusses how he got into the business; what the transition was like from his previous industry, foodservice; his development as a leader; what he enjoys most about being in the store; his experience with the Southeast Produce Council's STEP-UPP program; how he evaluates potential in team members; how he breaks up his day and makes time to train his team members; and more. Jason and Mike discuss their internal process for selecting nominees for IFPA recognition; Ryan's contribution not just to his own store but to the broader company; Ryan's ability to identify and cultivate emerging leaders; Mike's commitment to educating produce managers not only on products but on leadership as well — and how his own leadership journey informed that passion; and other topics. Hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did!

<p>We're delighted to have produce manager Ryan Vann, produce regional supervisor Jason Riggs, and vice president of produce operations Mike Roberts &mdash; all from Harps Food Stores &mdash; as our guests this week. The International Fresh Produce Association has recognized Ryan as one of the best in the business, naming him among 20 honorees this year for its Retail Produce Manager Awards Program. In this episode, Ryan discusses how he got into the business; what the transition was like from his previous industry, foodservice; his development as a leader; what he enjoys most about being in the store; his experience with the Southeast Produce Council's STEP-UPP program; how he evaluates potential in team members; how he breaks up his day and makes time to train his team members; and more.&nbsp;Jason and Mike discuss their internal process for selecting nominees for IFPA recognition; Ryan's contribution not just to his own store but to the broader company; Ryan's ability to identify and cultivate emerging leaders; Mike's commitment to educating produce managers not only on products but on leadership as well &mdash; and how his own leadership journey informed that passion; and other topics. Hope you enjoy the conversation as much as we did!</p>

The Produce Retail Podcast is the place for thought leaders in the industry to talk shop. Join us for conversations on strategy, business partnerships, planning, training, leadership, communication, merchandising and much more. We'll have regular guests as well as more occasional visitors, and the goal is always to deliver conversations that inform, inspire and ultimately illuminate opportunities for growth. This podcast is hosted by Ashley Nickle, produce industry enthusiast and founder and CEO of Ashley Nickle Growth Strategies.  

<p>The Produce Retail Podcast is the place for thought leaders in the industry to talk shop. Join us for conversations on strategy, business partnerships, planning, training, leadership, communication, merchandising and much more. We'll have regular guests as well as more occasional visitors, and the goal is always to deliver conversations that inform, inspire and ultimately illuminate opportunities for growth. This podcast is hosted by Ashley Nickle, produce industry enthusiast and founder and CEO of Ashley Nickle Growth Strategies.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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