Week in Review: Wisdom from Southern Exposure 

ORLANDO, FL – In the past, SEPC’s Southern Exposure has often had keynote speakers from the sports world. 

In light of legendary football coach Lou Holtz’s passing this week, many in the produce industry will recall he was the keynote speaker in 2013, and he delivered an amazing talk.

This year’s event, held February 26-28 in Orlando, seemed to feature more leadership wisdom than normal. 

So, here’s a collection of quotes from the event, from accomplished authors to produce, retail, and foodservice experts, that I hope people have and can put into use. 

“Show up, work hard, and do the right thing, and good things will happen,” Gary Bergstrom, SEPC Lifetime Achievement Award winner. 

“Heroes are people who break through barriers and help others become their best,” Stephen Mansfield, author. 

“Protect and fight for what’s important because happy warriors do hard things,” Mansfield. 

“The greatest separator of success in life is attitude. It’s not talent or gifts. It’s a choice,” John Maxwell, author. 

“Great leaders see more than others see and see them before others see,” Maxwell. 

“People of value add value to people who add value to others,” Maxwell. 

“Work your ass off. Read all you can about produce. Don’t take things personally,” Steve Church, Chairman, Church Brothers Farms. 

“Agriculture is the backbone of our country, even as it turns 250. We all worked in the fields. It’s incredibly important that you work on the farm, even if it’s just for a month before you go into the office. You will go farther, faster with that experience,” Sarah Frey, Founder and CEO of Frey Farms. 

“A domestic food supply is a matter of national security,” Ashley Rawl, VP of Sales and Marketing, WP Rawl. 

“In digital, retail has to make sure the product is delivered as expected, and if so, it will keep growing,” Shanan Cox, Senior Director of Produce, Sam’s Club. 

“The perception of inflation is higher than it actually is, so we have to better define value,” Anne-Marie Roerink, 210 Analytics. 

Statistics show 13 percent of people are taking GLP-1s “but it affects an entire household when one person is on them, and that is good for fresh produce,” Rick Stein, VP of Fresh, FMI.