Join us as we sit down with Sarela Herrada, co-founder of SIMPLi, whose chance encounter with quinoa farmers in South America transformed into a mission to revolutionize global food sourcing. During a fateful hiking trip with her then-boyfriend (now husband), Sarela witnessed firsthand the disconnect between quinoa farmers and the end market – an observation that would later spark a movement. Today, SIMPLi is redefining ethical food sourcing through direct partnerships with farming communities worldwide. Learn how becoming a mother deepened Sarela's commitment to building sustainable food systems for future generations, and discover why this innovative company's plastic-free, compostable packaging reflects their deep connection to both the earth and their partner farmers. In this episode, Sarela shares fascinating insights about sustainable agriculture (including why quinoa is actually a seed, not a grain!), discusses how SIMPLi has created a blueprint for better business practices, and offers invaluable advice about staying curious and resilient in the face of challenges. Whether you're a food industry professional, sustainability advocate, or conscious consumer, this conversation about authenticity, integrity, and purposeful entrepreneurship will leave you inspired. Don't miss this compelling story of how one woman's vision is helping shape the future of our global food system.
--------
43:00
--------
43:00
Beyond The Board - Row 7 Seed Company
In this compelling episode, James Beard Award-winning chef Dan Barber of Row 7 Seed Company reveals how a single conversation with a squash breeder transformed his understanding of our food system and launched him into the world of seed breeding. Barber shares the groundbreaking partnership between Row 7 and Whole Foods Market, exploring how the retailer took an unprecedented risk to support this venture in sustainable agriculture. The discussion delves into the critical challenges facing American farming, from declining acreage to the disconnect between modern seed breeding and flavor. Barber explains how conventional breeding prioritizes distribution needs over taste and nutrition, and why this approach needs to change. Through fascinating examples, including the story of the 'Willy Wonka of lettuce' who revolutionized nutrient-dense greens, Barber illustrates how Row 7 is working to transform our food system from the ground up. Learn how this chef-led seed company is empowering home cooks, supporting organic farmers, and reimagining vegetables that can stand alone on the plate. Barber makes a compelling case for why seed breeding might be the key to addressing both our health crisis and environmental challenges, offering a vision for a more sustainable and flavorful future. The information provided on this episode is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The content on this episode is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views, opinions, and claims expressed by guests in this podcast episode are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Whole Foods Market, its parent company, subsidiaries, or affiliates. This content is for informational purposes only.
--------
48:44
--------
48:44
Beyond The Board - Tuyyo
Join Whole Foods Market CEO and Amazon VP of WWGS, Jason Buechel, in conversation with Stefanie Garcia Turner, founder of Tuyyo, the agua fresca beverages with a modern twist. Utilizing her 15 years of experience as a Whole Foods Market Team Member, Garcia Turner shares her journey from retail expert to innovative entrepreneur. Discover how her mission to recreate cherished flavors using better ingredients transformed into a successful business venture. Garcia Turner's commitment to authentic taste without unnecessary additives offers a fresh take on traditional Latin America favorites. This inspiring episode explores how deep cultural connections, industry expertise and dedication to quality ingredients came together to build a brand that's reimagining heritage flavors for modern consumers. Listen as two industry veterans discuss the power of bringing authentic representation to natural foods. Did you enjoy listening to this episode? Don't forget to like and subscribe to hear more conversations spotlighting innovation, perseverance, and meaningful impact.
--------
17:49
--------
17:49
Beyond The Board - John Mackey
To commemorate Whole Foods Market's 45th anniversary, Jason Buechel, CEO of Whole Foods Market and Vice President of Amazon Worldwide Grocery Stores, welcomes John Mackey, co-founder and former CEO of Whole Foods Market, to share his remarkable journey transforming one small natural foods store into a grocery revolution that changed the way America eats. This inspiring conversation explores: The pivotal decisions that shaped the company's incredible growth since 1978 The evolution of the natural and organic foods movement since Whole Foods' founding How to maintain an innovative culture while scaling a business over four decades John's new venture, Love Life, and his vision for transforming healthcare Leadership lessons learned from 45 years of practicing conscious capitalism John also reflects on his proudest achievements during his tenure at Whole Foods Market, including the Whole Planet Foundation's impact on global poverty and the establishment of groundbreaking animal welfare standards. His passion for empowering others and creating positive change continues to shape the future of food, wellness and conscious business. Did you enjoy this 45th anniversary episode? Don't forget to like and subscribe to hear more conversations with innovative leaders who are transforming industries and improving lives. The information provided on this episode is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The content on this episode is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
--------
1:02:32
--------
1:02:32
Beyond The Board - Oat Haus
Sonya Gafsi Oblisk sits down with Ali Bonar, founder of Oat Haus, who transformed her personal struggle with an eating disorder into a mission to create joy-filled, allergen-free food. Ali shares her remarkable journey, from hand-filling jars in her home to building a dedicated manufacturing facility and landing coveted shelf space at Whole Foods Market. With raw honesty, Ali reveals how her past shaped her unique approach to entrepreneurship and continues to shape Oat Haus's future. In this episode, learn how the Oat Haus founder's persistence broke through countless "no's" to create: A food brand disrupting the spread aisle with a fun, school-friendly alternative A leadership philosophy rooted in prioritizing mental health A commitment to high-quality ingredients without compromise This episode serves up equal portions of inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone interested in food innovation, conscious entrepreneurship or transforming personal challenges into purposeful business ventures. Did you enjoy listening to this episode? Don't forget to like and subscribe to hear more conversations spotlighting innovation, perseverance, and meaningful impact. The information provided on this episode is for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. The content on this episode is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views, opinions, and claims expressed by guests in this podcast episode are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Whole Foods Market, its parent company, subsidiaries, or affiliates. This content is for informational purposes only.
Beyond the Board is a new podcast storytelling series that spotlights different guests — from founders of major brands to up-and-coming suppliers as well as community leaders and policy makers — all working to nourish people and the planet. New episodes will be released regularly, featuring conversations about innovation, perseverance and meaningful impact on food and agriculture. The podcast will feature a rotating cast of hosts from Whole Foods Market's leadership team, including CEO Jason Buechel, Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer Sonya Gafsi Oblisk and Senior Vice President of Merchandising Alyssa Vescio.
USA