Join John Paap and Patrick Kelly in this podcast series that explores the fascinating and often overlooked history of fresh fruits and vegetables. Each episode offers listeners a unique perspective on how produce has shaped our world, featuring in-depth interviews with top experts and historians, engaging storytelling, and a blend of historical and contemporary perspectives. Whether exploring the journey of grapes through time or the influence of produce in Tolkien’s Middle-Earth, this serie ...
…
continue reading
Produce Buzzers is a new podcast with the goal of inspiring people to eat more fresh fruit and veggies. Part informative radio show, part trivia game show, and part funny talk show, it will put a smile on your face while educating you about fresh produce. Join Theresa Nolan, Edwin Stepp, Rick Stepp, and Cynthia Benedetto as they share their knowledge about fresh fruits and veggies. Be fruitful and veg out! *This podcast discusses the nutrition and health benefits of fresh produce but the pan ...
…
continue reading
#1 Produce Industry Game Show Podcast
…
continue reading
In the wake of war, division, and rapid industrialization, South Korea’s countryside faced a crisis. By the late 1960s, rural poverty was deepening, farmers were abandoning their fields for the cities, and the gap between urban and rural life had never been wider. But then, a dramatic shift began. Join John and Patrick as they explore the origins a…
…
continue reading
Our guest this week is a fellow podcaster who also promotes the eating of more fresh fruits and veggies, so we are especially delighted to welcome her to the show. Amanda Keefer handles brand partnerships and marketing communications for the Healthy Family Project in addition to producing and hosting their podcast. The Healthy Family Project is mak…
…
continue reading
The relationship between Russia and Ukraine is as much about soil as it is about politics. The fertile black earth of Ukraine—cherished by empires, fought over by nations—has been both a source of great prosperity and deep conflict. And today, as world leaders negotiate the terms of peace, the historical struggle for control over Ukraine’s agricult…
…
continue reading

1
HFPC: African American Foodways and Fresh Produce in Chicago
1:04:58
1:04:58
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:04:58Chicago’s history is deeply entwined with African American migration, resilience, and food traditions. Once a key destination of the Great Migration, the city became a new home for millions seeking opportunity - bringing with them the rich culinary heritage of the South. But how did African Americans adapt to urban life when access to farmland was …
…
continue reading
African Americans have played an undeniable role in shaping American agriculture, yet today, they make up less than 2% of the nation’s farmers. From the rich agricultural knowledge enslaved Africans brought with them - cultivating crops like rice, okra, and yam - to the broken promise of "40 acres and a mule," Black farmers have faced generations o…
…
continue reading
On this week’s episode, we are telling our listeners to Beet It! But that’s not spelled b-e-A-t but instead b-e-E-t. Yes, today we are rootin’ for our favorite root! That’s right! We’re digging deep into the world of beets. The veggie that stains your fingers, confuses your taste buds, and somehow ended up in both salads and desserts. From the hist…
…
continue reading
After years of relentless study, George Washington Carver arrived in Alabama in 1896 with a bold vision: to transform Southern agriculture and help Black farmers break free from poverty. But what he found was a region devastated by over-farmed soil, sharecropping, and economic struggle. Joining the Tuskegee Institute under Booker T. Washington’s le…
…
continue reading
Love is in the air, and… on your plate! Welcome to this week’s special Valentine’s Day episode of The Produce Buzzers Podcast, where we’re diving into the most romantic fruits and vegetables to set the mood for love. From the aptly named passion fruit to mythical artichokes to heart-healthy beets and the silky sweetness of strawberries, we’ll explo…
…
continue reading
George Washington Carver, born into slavery in the early 1860s, would go on to become one of the most influential figures in American agriculture. His life began in turmoil - kidnapped as an infant, raised by his former enslavers after the Civil War, and set on a path of profound curiosity and innovation. Despite immense adversity, George developed…
…
continue reading
Super Bowl LIX is here! The week of Super Bowl is the biggest week for sales of avocados in the U.S. There are a lot of choices for snacks and meals for America’s biggest annual TV event, but fans know that avocados and guacamole have to be on the table. And that’s good for them because avocados are one of the healthiest foods you can eat, unlike p…
…
continue reading
Africa’s agricultural innovations have shaped global food systems for over 10,000 years, yet its legacy is often overshadowed by misconceptions of scarcity. This episode begins with exploring Africa’s deep-rooted contributions to agriculture, from the domestication of crops like millet, sorghum, and coffee to the continent’s vital role in feeding b…
…
continue reading
Today we have a very special guest who understands that the people who grow our fruits and vegetables are special people. In fact, they are stars. Our guest has been highlighting these stars for over thirteen years on her beautiful Website FarmStarLiving.com. On that Website you will find stories of these heroes and the challenges they face to brin…
…
continue reading

1
Top 10 Produce Gods (Livestream)
1:07:39
1:07:39
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:07:39For centuries, people from all walks of life have turned to gods and goddesses to ensure a bountiful harvest. The myths surrounding these deities are as diverse as they are fascinating, with stories of forbidden fruits, underworld bargains, and even gods donning flayed skins. But what common threads run through these ancient tales from distant cult…
…
continue reading
Julius Caesar adored it, the Catholic Church feared it, and Benjamin Franklin grumbled about it. Asparagus is a vegetable that has stirred strong emotions throughout history, yet it always finds its way back to the table. Known as the “aristocrat of the allium world,” asparagus captivated the ancient world, vanished for a time, and then made a gran…
…
continue reading
January is more than just a fresh start to the year—it’s also National Slow Cooking Month! As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming hearty stew packed full of veggies slowly blended together over hours of slow cooking. These meals can warm you up and satisfy you like no others. And it’s a convenient and easy way …
…
continue reading
Born into a humble farming family in Plains, Georgia, Jimmy Carter's life began with roots firmly planted in the red clay fields of the South. His early years were shaped by the rural rhythms of farm life, where peanuts, cotton, and sweet potatoes formed the backbone of his family's livelihood. This foundation cultivated his work ethic, character, …
…
continue reading
This week, we’re diving into one of the most universally celebrated events: New Year’s! But, as we know, how people ring in the New Year varies widely depending on where you are in the world. From feasting and fireworks to unique superstitions and rituals, the way we say goodbye to one year and hello to another can be incredibly different—and deepl…
…
continue reading

1
Were Gladiators Vegetarians? (Livestream)
1:06:14
1:06:14
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:06:14Who were the gladiators, and how did they become iconic figures in Roman history? What roles did slaves, criminals, and even emperors play in the gladiator world? How were these fighters trained, categorized, and prepared for combat? What did gladiators eat to stay battle-ready, and why was their diet primarily vegetarian? How did a strange brew of…
…
continue reading
So as the new year begins, we thought we would look back on the most tortuous moments in 2024’s Produce Buzzers podcasts. Yes, our infamous “Home Groans.” We tried our best to “PUN-ish” you in every episode, with our fearless leader, Theresa Nolan’s terrible puns. We were going to call it “The Best of Home Groan” but the word “best” just doesn’t wo…
…
continue reading
The Jaffa orange, a fruit that once symbolized prosperity and collaboration, is now tied to a complex and painful history. Before the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Jaffa's citrus industry was world-renowned, celebrated for its sweet, vibrant fruit. This thriving sector, cultivated by both Jewish and Arab farmers, symbolized the region's agricultural succe…
…
continue reading
Nuts have been symbols of faith, fortune, and fertility for centuries, and their deep-rooted significance can still be felt today during Christmas celebrations. From their connection to Christian symbolism to their role in medieval mystery plays, these humble gifts have held profound meanings throughout history. Why were hazelnuts, chestnuts, and w…
…
continue reading
This week we are so delighted to have our favorite guest back on the podcast. The man widely known as the “Produce Expert” is back to tell us about the delightful fruits and veggies his company Melissa’s World Variety Produce sells. Which frankly could be any fruit or vegetable on the planet because Melissa’s sells every fresh produce item that exi…
…
continue reading
In the early 20th century, the thriving citrus industry of Palestine became a complex backdrop for political tensions and shifting power dynamics. As the British Mandate took control, Jewish and Arab communities navigated a shared landscape of cooperation, competition, and rising nationalism. The Jaffa orange, once a symbol of prosperity, became a …
…
continue reading
Jaffa, known to the ancient Canaanites as "Yafi," meaning “gorgeous,” is one of the oldest cities in the world, and its history is as rich as the citrus groves that would later define it. From its days as a bustling trade hub under the Egyptians and Israelites to its transformation into a cultural and agricultural powerhouse under Ottoman rule, Jaf…
…
continue reading
"[This college] was not established to serve or to magnify Cornell University. It belongs to the people of the state. The farmers of the state have secured it. Their influence has placed it here... If there is any man standing on the land, unattached, uncontrolled, who feels that he has disadvantages and a problem, this College of Agriculture stand…
…
continue reading
This week, we’re diving into the colorful world of purple vegetables! From nutrient-packed purple cabbage, to purple beets, to the majestic purple eggplant, we’ll uncover the secrets behind their striking hues, their incredible health benefits, and how they’ve become stars in cuisines around the globe. We’ll share tips on cooking with them, stories…
…
continue reading

1
Produce and Dinosaurs (Livestream)
1:00:11
1:00:11
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:00:11Dinosaurs and fresh produce? It might sound unusual, but the connection between prehistoric plants and ancient giants is stronger than you think. In this episode, Patrick and John explore the fascinating history of ancient plants like cycads, ginkgoes, and conifers, and how they relied on dinosaurs for seed dispersal. Discover how the rise of flowe…
…
continue reading
The British are determined to secure control over the spice-rich island of Run in the Banda Islands. To do so, they need a strong, capable leader, and they find this in East India Company officer Nathaniel Courthope. As the Dutch intensify their efforts to seize Run, Courthope confronts formidable obstacles, from building defenses to managing dwind…
…
continue reading
Today we will talk about some traditional dishes that you can serve at your meal, but we also want to feature some unique fruits and vegetables that are in season during the fall but perhaps you have not thought about including in your menu. Not that we are trying to dissuade you from the usual fruit and veggie dishes like sweet potatoes, green bea…
…
continue reading
"Nutmeg, the seed of the tree, was the most coveted luxury in seventeenth-century Europe, a spice held to have such powerful medicinal properties that men would risk their lives to acquire it." - Giles Milton, Nathaniel's Nutmeg In the seventeenth century, a fierce rivalry emerged between the British and the Dutch in the East Indies over the lucrat…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we delve into the complex tapestry of Salem's early years, exploring how agricultural life intertwined with rising tensions that ultimately led to the infamous witch trials. Join John and Patrick as they recount the arrival of Puritan settlers in 1626 and the ensuing rivalry between the wealthy Porter and conservative Putnam famili…
…
continue reading

1
Coca-Cola: How Fresh Produce Shaped a Global Icon (Livestream)
1:00:57
1:00:57
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:00:57"Coca-Cola is Atlanta, and Atlanta is Coca-Cola." - Former Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young In our first ever, live in-person event, John and Patrick dive deep into the intriguing history of Coca-Cola, exploring its unexpected ties to fresh produce. Discover how John Pemberton, a pharmacist with a penchant for herbal remedies, transformed his initial con…
…
continue reading
Join John and Patrick as they embark on a captivating journey through the rich history and cultural significance of one of the world's most adored fruits—the mango. From its ancient roots in North-East India and its spiritual significance in Hinduism and Buddhism to its role in diplomacy and myth, the mango’s story is as sweet and complex as the fr…
…
continue reading

1
The [Weird] History of Apple Picking (Livestream)
1:00:44
1:00:44
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:00:44Each year millions of Americans spend their autumn days picking apples from the many orchards that dot the country. But why? And when did this tradition start? In this livestream episode, we explore the fascinating history of apple picking in America, tracing its journey from the introduction of apples by early European settlers to the rise of toda…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we continue our deep dive into the life and legacy of Henry Flagler, focusing on his transformative role in shaping Florida’s fresh produce industry. Following up on part one, which explored Flagler's rise from grain merchant to Standard Oil powerhouse, we now turn our attention to his ambitious projects in Florida. Join John and P…
…
continue reading
“I did not form a very favorable first impression, I must admit. I came here from Jacksonville by way of the river and the Tocoi railway and got here just at night. The accommodation was very bad and most of the visitors here were consumptives. I didn’t like it, and took the first train back to Jacksonville.” While Henry Flagler’s initial impressio…
…
continue reading
Our guest this week is leading a renaissance in agriculture that is spreading across the country. With this movement, he believes that hunger can be eliminated. His work is not just in theory. For decades, he has been spearheading grassroots efforts in local communities in Southern California not just to provide food to needy people but to teach th…
…
continue reading

1
The Mongol Empire's Agricultural Legacy
1:00:52
1:00:52
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:00:52At its height, the Mongol Empire was the largest contiguous land empire in history, initially forged under the leadership of Genghis Khan. Spanning from 1206 to 1368, it extended across much of Eurasia, fueled by advanced technology and a formidable force of nomadic warriors. The Mongol Empire's influence was profound, leaving a lasting legacy that…
…
continue reading
In this live-stream, John and Patrick follow up the week's earlier episode with a summary of their visit to America's oldest Botanical Garden. Bartram's Garden is a 50-acre public garden and National Historic Landmark in Southwest Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, situated on the banks of the Tidal Schuylkill River. Founded in 1728 by botanist John Bartr…
…
continue reading
In this episode, John and Patrick take a trip to the historic Bartram’s Garden, where they are joined by special guest Mandy Katz, Lead Gardener at Bartram’s Garden. Together, they explore the legacy of renowned botanist John Bartram, whose pioneering work in horticulture laid the foundation for America’s botanical heritage. Mandy shares insights i…
…
continue reading
This week we are going to have some more game show fun on the podcast and test our Produce Buzzers knowledge of different fruits and veggies. Once again, they will play a version of the classic TV Game Show “Jeopardy” with all the categories being about fruits and veggies. Since we are at the height of summer, we will feature summer fruits and vegg…
…
continue reading

1
Middle-Earth Produce: Tolkien’s Agrarian Dream
1:04:44
1:04:44
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Αναπαραγωγή αργότερα
Λίστες
Like
Liked
1:04:44Join John and Patrick as they dive into the rich, agricultural tapestry of Middle-earth in this episode focused on the symbolic significance of fresh produce and farming in Tolkien’s world. Explore how the idyllic Shire, with its abundance of gardens and homegrown foods, contrasts with the industrial blight of Isengard and the barren wastelands of …
…
continue reading
In the final episode of this Olympics marathon, John and Patrick share the story of the Delano grape strike. During the early 20th century, Filipino and Mexican immigrants arrived in America seeking better opportunities for themselves and their families. Many found themselves laboring on farms along the Western seaboard, often with little care give…
…
continue reading
In today's episode, John and Patrick discuss the disruptive impact of British colonization on Kenya and its agricultural landscape. Kenyan farmers and communities faced immense hardships, from having their lands appropriated to being restricted on what crops they could grow. As tensions boil over following the Second World War, leading to open rebe…
…
continue reading
This week’s guest returns to the Produce Buzzers Podcast for his second time. He is a man who pioneered podcasting about fruits and veggies. He was probably the first person to have a radio show that focused on fresh produce. Long before we had the term “podcasting” our guest was on the radio airwaves across the country with a show called “The Prod…
…
continue reading
Join John and Patrick as they unravel the captivating journey of coffee in Brazil, from its clandestine introduction in the 18th century to its explosive rise as a global powerhouse. Discover how coffee's rise redefined Brazil’s agricultural landscape, influenced global trade, and fueled social change, all while navigating the tumultuous impacts of…
…
continue reading
In today's episode, John and Patrick explore the extraordinary life and tragic fate of Nikolai Vavilov, a visionary scientist who revolutionized agricultural science in the early 20th century. Against the backdrop of revolution and war-torn Russia, Vavilov's commitment to collecting and preserving seeds from around the world, culminating in the cre…
…
continue reading
Join John and Patrick as they unravel the fascinating journey of the McIntosh apple, from its humble beginnings in Canada’s rugged wilderness to becoming a beloved global symbol. Discover how John McIntosh’s accidental discovery transformed the apple industry, and explore the surprising connection between this iconic fruit and the birth of a tech g…
…
continue reading
In today's episode, John and Patrick explore Japan's rich history with fruits, uncovering how what was once a rare indulgence has evolved into a symbol of luxury and cultural significance. From historical roots to contemporary practices, discover why fruits continue to captivate the Japanese imagination and why even today, a perfect melon or strawb…
…
continue reading
In today's episode, John and Patrick explore the remarkable journey of the kiwifruit, tracing its origins from the misty mountains of central China, where it grew wild for centuries, to its introduction in New Zealand by pioneering botanists and missionaries. Discover how this once-unknown fruit, initially dubbed the Chinese gooseberry, transformed…
…
continue reading