Episode 383: Julie Krivanek
Feb 25, 2026
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Julie Krivanek, a seasoned leader in the fresh produce industry. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the impact of the pandemic on business strategies, and the qualities that define effective executive leadership. Julie shares her journey from coal mining to fresh produce, emphasizing the unifying power of food and the personal connections it fosters. The conversation also highlights successful companies and the significance of bringing in external perspectives to drive innovation and growth in the industry.
Takeaways:
- Mentorship can significantly impact personal and professional growth.
- The fresh produce industry is unique in its ability to foster personal connections.
- Effective leadership requires a blend of strategic thinking and emotional intelligence.
- The pandemic revealed clear winners and losers in business.
- Successful executives possess key qualities that enable them to move mountains.
- Understanding consumer needs is crucial for business success.
- Wegmans exemplifies a company that prioritizes employee welfare.
- Transitioning industries can lead to unexpected opportunities.
- External perspectives can drive innovation in traditional industries.
- The foundation of leadership is built on essential skills developed over time.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Overview of 2026 Programming
02:21 The Impact of Mentorship and Leadership
04:46 Julie Krivanek’s Journey in Leadership
08:23 Transitioning from Coal to Fresh Produce
10:51 The Unifying Power of Fresh Produce
11:57 Executive Leadership in the Produce Industry
15:53 Identifying Winners and Losers in Business
18:59 Key Qualities of Effective Executives
21:41 Case Studies of Successful Companies
26:28 The Importance of External Perspectives in Leadership
Resources:
LinkedIn: Julie Krivanek | LinkedIn
