Cultivation Station: Recent Episodes
Colorado Department of Agriculture
Cultivation Station, a business development podcast from The Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Colorado Proud program, dives into the rich and diverse world of food and agricultural businesses. Whether you’re just beginning to think about starting a food or ag business in Colorado, or your operation is already up and running, the many topics covered, expert insight and insider tips and tricks can help you be successful!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with John Milan, the creator of STOCK & SPROUT. This is an APP that can connect local farmers and homesteaders with consumers! You can buy, sell, and trade livestock, harvests, handcrafted goods, and equipment. Zero Listing Fees. Zero Subscriptions. 100% Free.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we dive into the gritty and unexpectedly strategic world of scaling a bold, spicy brand where most shoppers make decisions in under 30 seconds. From pitching c-store buyers and surviving slotting fees to designing packaging that pops under fluorescent lights, Tres Picosos is about meeting customers where they already are—and earning their loyalty one grab-and-go at a time.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with Jim Rubingh the Colorado Agricultural Development Authority (CADA) Board Secretary. The CADA loan program is known as the Beginning Farmer Loan Program. If you are just beginning your agricultural journey, this is the place to start.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with Chelsea Rutz and Rita May Hennigan, from UpRoot Colorado. Their mission is to increase the nutrition security of Coloradans by harvesting and redistributing surplus, nutrient-dense foods while supporting the resilience of farmers through gleaning.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while Rocky Mountain Farmers Union (RMFU). This organization is a grassroots group of family farmers and ranchers. We learn how they work with producers and communities.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we learn about Hell Yeah! Salsa - a Colorado Proud member. Discover the essence of Hell Yeah! Salsa through their commitment to partnering with local family-owned farms. Their mission is simple: to deliver a high-quality product directly to your doorstep, ensuring you experience the freshest tastes of home.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Tera Keatts from Philosophy Communications. Tera understands that reaching the Colorado consumer takes more than just great products—it requires a deep understanding of what makes the Colorado market unique. In this episode, we explore how brands can successfully connect with Colorado shoppers to grow their businesses and deliver unmatched excellence to Colorado consumers!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with Chad Reznicek about the Colorado AgrAbility project. For the past 27 years, Colorado AgrAbility Project Rehabilitation Specialists have provided on-farm and on-ranch assessments, assistive technology recommendations, and resource connections for individuals experiencing physical limitations due to injury, disability, or age-related issues. Colorado AgrAbility has served over 670 clients with these physical support services.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Polidori Sausage. Polidori is proudly recognized as America's oldest family-owned sausage company. The Polidori family has carried forward authentic Italian sausage-making traditions, building a brand rooted in heritage, hard work, and uncompromising quality. From hand-crafted recipes passed down through generations to their lasting impact on Colorado's food culture, Polidori Sausage represents more than just a product—it's a legacy.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we chat with Kyle Peters the founder of SEXY PIZZA. We will get into how this incredidble company was born from a neighborhood pizza joint to expanding to 4 stores and staying rooted in community, showing up for the people around them, and giving back in ways that actually matter. It's about doing business with intention, funding local causes, and proving that growth doesn't have to mean dilution.
Listen in as we chat with the Colorado Brewers Guild. We are going to learn all about the 2026 Collaboration Fest. This event is a celebration of everything we love about the brewing industry—community, camaraderie, creativity, and craft beer. Each year, Colorado breweries dive into the spirit of collaboration that defines Colorado craft beer.
Cultivation Station chats with Lenny from Deerhammer Distillery. After over 15 years of operation, Deerhammer remains a wholly independent business, free from the influence of investors or other entities. As an ever-evolving brand, Deerhammer continuously strives to redefine the flavor and future of independent American whiskey. One barrel at a time.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with the founder of Barn To Basket, their mission is to allow local producers a simple, straight-forward and honest way to cater to their neighbors and in turn, create communities that pay less for better food.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with the team at Creative Alignments. This group can affordably add recruiting bandwidth and expertise as you need. Contact Megan today.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with the co-founders of OSIA, an elevated spritz with functional benefits. Each drink contains the most high-quality fruits, herbs and mountain water. They keep it simple, so no additives or fake flavors.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with the Good Meat Project. This group is on a mission to advance an ethical meat system, and is serving ranchers, as well as consumers!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Alexander Thompson from Compost Colorado! Compost Colorado, has reimagined residential compost collection from the ground up. While traditional municipal programs simply apply the same model used for trash and recycling — large 64-gallon totes collected by heavy garbage trucks — they have developed a more thoughtful approach that better serves both our members and the environment.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with Arielle Pritchett the founder and CEO of ReBranded Design Company. Arielle is a Senior Creative Designer with over 10 years of experience shaping visual identities and crafting compelling brand stories.
She is inspired to push boundaries and explore new design possibilities, and committed to delivering exceptional results through a blend of artistic vision and practical solutions, always aiming to elevate brands and exceed expectations.
Listen in on Cultivation Station, as we chat with Christine Young of Hearth & Seoul. Christine will share with us how Hearth and Seoul embodies the fusion of two passions dear to her heart: the cherished memories of cooking alongside her Korean mother as well as her 16 year journey into the world of herbalism and integrative healthcare.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Karall the founder and truffleteer that has launched this company "To Create Community Based in Health and WellBeing". Naomi's truffles are incredible and delicious, and Karall will share with us her journey to creating a Colorado food that is good for the Earth and for us.
Dairy Max joins us for episode 19. Their mission is to create demand for dairy by transforming strategic investments into measurable, lasting impact. Their innovative marketing campagins are reaching new generations and supporting dairy consumption in the process.
Join us and Nicholas Colglazier, the Executive Director of the Colorado Corn Promotion Council. This council is expanding opportunities and advancing the use of the most innovative technology and production practices that result in profitable, sustainable corn crops.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with the Executive Director of the Colorado Pork Producers Council Joyce Kelly. Colorado Pork Producers Council is a livestock organization whose goal is to provide a unified voice for pig farmers leading the way in promoting, educating, and providing visibility and transparency of the industry to all of Colorado.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Bravo CPG. At Bravo, they specialize in pinpointing opportunities to stream operations, leverage technology, drive cost efficiencies and propel our clients towards sustainable growth.
Learn all about Naturally Colorado and their upcoming event: Fall Fling. Naturally Colorado is excited to gather hundreds of natural products professionals to create fresh connections, support blossoming relationships, and recognize new companies and services that have sprung up or branched out this year. Fall Fling is your time to let loose, have fun, and celebrate new and exciting ways our community is changing the industry for good. This industry in Colorado and beyond continues to flourish. Register here. Contact Taylor with any questions: taylor@naturallycolorado.org
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Dr. Brian DeDecker, the CEO of Biosystems. The have developed cutting edge technology to make specific proteins for human health applications, from soybeans.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with two companies: Olive & Olde's and the Rye Resurgence Project. These companies have collaborated to highlight both of their creations.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with a financial advisor that serves and empowers herclients by helping them create and implement sound strategies for a better financial future.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we learn about how the supply chain for Ag Tech is getting more streamlined. Alexandra at Factorem will share with us how they have been able to reduce lead times from 3 months to under 15 days. As innovation and time to market becomes more and more competitive, supply chain efficiency is one way a company can gain an edge.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with Lindsey Beatrice with Nude Foods. Did you know the average American produces 1,704 pounds of trash each year. That’s enough to fill 23 million garbage trucks, which is 50 garbage trucks per minute. Lindsey will share what her and others are doing to combat this, and how we can all get involved.
Notes:
Nude Foods Market Nude Foods is the easiest way to shop zero-waste for local and organic groceries. Visit our locations in Boulder (3233 Walnut St.) or Denver (3538 W 44th Ave), or order online for delivery in select areas. All you have to do is shop like normal, drop off your empty jars when you're done, and shop again. Nude Foods will wash, sanitize, and refill every jar with products we buy in bulk. We've already avoided over 1,000,000+ pieces of single use plastic from ever being created. nudefoodsmarket.com @nudefoodsmarket on all social media platforms Apply to be a vendor by filling out this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedmhoSzuUVkei_hLpBYupNI7Vu60DJgDIq-s8wXDrGZGYAnw/viewform Flatirons Farmers Coalition FFC creates a thriving and inclusive local agricultural community rooted in regenerative agriculture, food security, and land stewardship. To do this, we connect and empower Boulder County growers and community members through peer-to-peer learning, community building, and advocacy. Our coalition is made up of farmers and ranchers of all ages and experience levels, as well as local food advocates. We welcome anyone committed to tending the land and cultivating community. flatironsfarmers.org @flatironsfarmers on Instagram More about the Boulder Valley Farming Families Fund: https://www.flatironsfarmers.org/family-support
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with the fouonder and owner of From Scratch Farms - Adriana Karagozian. We will learn about her passion for urban land efficient farming and how she got her amazing business started.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with the founder of Younii - Blake Eve! As adults in our world today, there are so many things to do, stay on top of and manage...things they never taught us in school! Blake will share with us her incredible program, designed to help make adulting a bit easier
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with Maddi Hughes, the FarmABLE Specialist for Goodwill. Their goal is to supoprt Colorado's 8100 veteran farmers, as well as disadvantaged farmers and ranchers.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with a professioinal photographer. There are some great benefits to having excellent photos of your business and your goods.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we chat with Nourish Colorado and how they are addressing the disparties in our food systems. These are the changemakers who strengthen connections with and between farms, ranches, and communities so that all Coloradans have equitable access to fresh, nutritious foods.
- The Colorado Local Food Program Guidebook which provides resources for school meal operators, agricultural producers, and community members to launch and sustain various farm to school efforts.
- Nourish Colorado's Food Bill Action Team:
- Website
- Registration Form
- GFPP Coalition and program in general: Marion.Kalb@denvergov.org
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with Nora Weiser the Executive Director for The Good Food Foundation. The Good Food Foundation exists to celebrate, connect, empower and leverage the passionate and engaged, yet often overlooked, players in the food system who are driving towards tasty, authentic and responsible food in order to humanize and reform our American food culture.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with Dr Dawn Thilmany and Dr Libby Christensen about the Northwest Regional Food Center, based at Colorado State University. We know farms and food businesses are the foundation of our resilient, diverse and balanced food systems. As a USDA Regional Food Business Center, we’ve got the connections and resources to help you start up, and scale up, your manufactured and value-added food business. This will be an informative and fun discussion of what support is out there for Colorado Proud members!
Listen in as we talk with experts on the topic of GAP certification. There are so many opportunities for Colorado agricultural producers, however in many cases certain certifiactions are necessary. Learn what these vertifications are, and how to get them.
Listen as we talk with Colorado's Ag Commissioner - Kate Greenberg. We will learn what our Commissioner is looking forward to in 2025 inn terms of Colorado agriculture.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with Allie Reitz of gBETA - and accelerator group in Greeley Colorado that is focused on helping start-up companies get the boost they need to be successful.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with our Deputy Commissioner of Operations - Hollis Glenn. He will share with us his view of how 2024 went for Colorado Proud members and what 2025 may look like.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while expert Sari Kimball talks with us about customer service. Business owners are great at making creative products, but getting someone to buy them can be a real challenge! We will talk through tips and strategies to offer great customer service and keep your business alive.
The Flowerhill Institute is a Native owned and community directed non-profit group. They also serve as the overall Technical Assistance Coordinator for the MPPTA Program, working closely with AMS and the TA Providers to connect meat and poultry processors, USDA grant applicants, and grant-funded project managers to the resources and expertise best suited to support a project’s needs. Dave Carter will join us to talk more about the ways Colorado meat producers can work with Flower Hill and technical assistance available.
Coloradoans love to eat local. Whether it is in their homes or when they are out, consumers are looking for Colorado grown and produced food. At What Chef's Want, they focus on getting locally raised, grown and produced food into restaurants. Anna Haas will share more with us on what their local food program looks like.
Listen in on Cultivation Station where we will talk with Zach Gaines at Proximity Malt. This is the first new-generation, full-scale, regional malting facility in North America. He will share with us how Colorado farmers and Colorado brewers can work with Proximity and develop great local malts. Zach will also tell us about RENGENMALT made from regenerative grains.
We talk with expert Sari Kimball shares ideas and tips to keep our valuable customers happy and loyal while also attracting new customers.
We talk with the Colorado Department of Human Services and Nourish Colorado and learn more about electronic healthy incentives project (eHIP) and how it will benefit Coloradoans! We will also be joined by a framer that is involved and can help other Colorado Proud members find out more.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we speak with Amber Burr of Daddy's Homemade Syrups. This is a family run, Colorado Proud compnay that started in their home. Their passion for eliminating articifial ingredients and high fructose corn syryup has led them to making some delicious products! Learn how they did this and their goals for growing their business.
Join us on Cultivation Station to learn about Naturopathic Medicine and how Colorado Proud wellness products can contribute to health. Naturopathic medicine can be considered functional medicine, and uses natural remedies to help the body heal itself. Dr Kelsey Asplin, the manager of the Denver Naturopthic Clinic and President of of the Colorado Assoction of Naturopathic Doctors will share her passion and knowledge of this timeless form of healthcare.
Join us on Cultivation Station while we explore trade show prep. Trade shows are part of doing business, and showcasing your business in the best possible way is important. What are some ways to prepare and make the best impression possible? Listen to our expert Erika Tebbens while she walks us through some pointers. Fine more extra information here.
Join us on Culitvation Station while we chat with Dry Storage, whose mission is to change the world's food systems. We will talk with Naia Morse, Nina Sohn, and Martha Sullins on what this means for our Colorado schools and our Colorado grain producers.
If you are doing your own marketing and are looking for ways to enhance your current marketing program, listen in while we talk with experts about using partnerships & events to ehance your program. Bill Capsalis and Kuvy Ax will share their expertise on developing key partnerships and attending important and useful networking events. Register your food or ag business at Colorado Proud.
Food markets today are booming, and everyone loves to see new and innovative products. Joins us as we look at some food products that have been around a while, but are really in their own niche markets and growing in popularity!
As your business grows, you may be preparing to expand your distribution. The FULL GOOD FULLFILLMENT team is obsessed with solving our clients’ toughest logistics problems by providing packing consultations, simple product management solutions, transparent order fulfillment, and low cost shipping so you can focus on sustainable growth strategies. Full Good exceeds the standards required for storing, packing, and shipping food products and packaged goods. For brands that produce perishable goods, it is essential to partner with a fulfillment company that understands the unique shipping and delivery requirements for these products. Our team of expert CPG and food professionals has created a hassle-free logistics solution for new and emerging brands to scale quickly and sustainably.
In a fast moving world we always need to be looking for new opportunities! Join us while we talk with Martha Sullins from CSU and Greg Bloom from Barbers Farms & Foods as they share new supply chain ideas, along with the benefits and opportunities they can have for Colorado food producers.
The STEAD School an Alternative to Traditional Learning. The STEAD School is student-led school for experiential learning in science, technology, environment, agriculture and systems design. Join us for to learn more about the school, the leadership and the students!
Advertising & Digital Media to Round Out Your Marketing Plan: This is Part 4 of our 4 part series, In parts 1, 2, & 3 we covered getting organized to develop a strong Marketing plan as well as using PR, and in part 3, we covered using Social Media and Influencers as key parts of your Marketing plan. As we wrap up our 4 part series, we will cover advertising and digital media! Luke Tierny will join us to share his expertise on tapping into Amazon & Instacart and how advertising through these channels can grow your business.
Root Marketing PR
Join us for Part 3, our final episode in of our 3 part seriese of learning what the Jefferson County Food Policy Council teams are doing. The first episode focused on the School Food Pilot, while Part 2 highlighted the Community Leadership that is taking place. In this episode we will hear about the teams working on the Supply & Food Chains.
https://www.jeffcofoodpolicy.org/ javier@jeffcofpc.org
Join us for Part 2 of our 3 part series to learn what the Jefferson County Food Policy Council teams are doing. The first episode focused on the School Food Pilot. In this episode we will hear about the Community Leadership team. The Jefferson County Food Policy Council is a diverse community-led, collaborative organization made up of community members, activists, farmers, food businesses, nonprofit organizations, local governments, and policymakers working to build community power to influence change in Jefferson County for a thriving food future through community advocacy work and policy change.
https://www.jeffcofoodpolicy.org/ javier@jeffcofpc.org
This is Part 3 of our 4 part series, In parts 1 & 2 we covered getting organized to develop a strong Marketing plan as well as using PR, partnerships and events to strengthen your plan. In part 3, we will talk with ROOT Marketing & PR experts about using Social Meida and Influenders as key parts of your Marketing plan.
Join us while we embark on a 3 part series to learn what the Jefferson County Food Policy & Systems teams are doing. This first episode will focus on School Food Program. The Food Policy and Systems Team aims to promote food security in Jefferson County through policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes rooted in justice and racial equity. This includes food system programming development and administration, county-wide coordination of resilience building efforts, and leveraging tools for improved food justice and community engagement for food security.
https://www.jeffcofoodpolicy.org/ javier@jeffcofpc.org
This is Part 2 of our 4 part series, We will take what we learned in Part 1 with "Getting Organized" and then listen to experts Kuvy Ax and Emily Tracy from Root Marketing on how to implement the plan we have developed! Using PR, partnerships and events, they will walk us through how to get our plan from our computers to reality! Check out more from Root Marketing and PR here.
Tera Keats from Philosophy Communications joins us to help us navigate the best ways to start a new year with our marketing strategies! A new year means we can jump start our business with a fresh new look!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we kick-off a 4 part series! In Part 1, we talk with Jordyn Gottlieb at Root Marketing on how our businesses can have effective Marketing programs on a budget! The first step is to get organized!!!! Jordyn will share expert ideas and tools to get started on developing a great Marketing program while staying within a budget.
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we talk with experts from the Small Business Development Center on how to prepare to exit your business. This key part of all bsuinesses should be considered when building your business plan, but is often overlooked. Our advisors will share their experiences in selling a business, and offer advice on how to build value into your business for the future and preparation for when the time comes to sell your business.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we learn how to stay on top of opportunities & trends. For everyone in agriculture, every season is the busy season! How do we stay on top of submitting applications for funding opportunities? How do we learn about business trends that could help our businesses grow? Our expert panel from CSU includes Sydney Scholes, Sarah Rhoades and Willy Wilkins. They will share their tips on how to set reminders and make sure to be on time, all year long!
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we explore prospecting for new clients! Finding new customers can be a time consuming, and often a frustrating task! Learn some tips & tools from expert Kevin Kuhnen, an instructor at the CSU College of Business - Center for Professional Selling as he shares ideas for prospecting.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we explore sales & marekting tips! Do you need a CRM? Possibly! As your business grows, connecting with and managing your customers is critical. We will hear from Lidiane Mocko an expert in business growth strategy, and from Rocky Mountain Micro Financiers, a group that has first hand experience with utilizing a CRM system to grow.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we dig into Farm to School here in Colorado! We are joined by Chef Jess with Nourish Colorado, Dr. Becca Jablonski an Assistant Professor and Food Systems Economist at Colorado State University, and Dr. Libby Christenson the State Extension Specialist for Food & Ag. This team of experts will share what Farm to School looks like in Colorado and how we can all support the Local Food Program within the Healthy School Meals for All initiative.
Listen in on Cultivation Station when we learn about Spade & Spoon. This organization works with local farmers, ranchers. bakers & makers to bring fresh, LOCAL meal kits. They focus on minimal and returnable packaging while sourcing the best Colorado producst in season. We will interview Joy Rubey, their founder and CEO and learn how a Colorado Proud member could work with them, and gain insights into their business!
Listen in on Cultivation Station and learn about Mountain Roots! This organization was founded in 2010 and today is stronger than ever. Their mission is to cultivate a resilient and equitable food system by enhancing healthy connections between earth, food, and community. They foster knowledge, teach skills, and provide opportunities that ensure access to affordable, nutritious food that is regionally based and sustainably produced. We will talk with their Executive Director and learn how Colorado Proud members could work with them, and be a part of bringing local foods to all parts of Colorado!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we talk with some of the amazing staff behing 2023 Ag Day and learn more about CSU Ag Day 2023! Ag Day has been a tradition for more than 40 years and is a time when we can come together and celebrate Colorado agricultural producers and honor our agricultural roots! Dr James Pritchett the Dean of Agricultural Sciences will share his vison for Ag Day 2023 and for the future of Agriculture in Colorado! We will also meet the 2023 Rising Star in Agriculture at CSU, Jo Smeby and learn what Ag Day means to her.
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we interview Brian Coppom the Colorado Agricultural Future Loan Program Manager and JoAnne Hernandez the Colorado Department of Agriculture's Program Coordinator! Our experts will share details around the Agricultural Future Loan Program and other funding opportunities that are available to help our Colorado Proud members grow!
Listen in on Cultivation Station while we dive into various social media platforms and how best to use them! Our experts Gretchen Bloom the founder of Magnetic Digital Marketing and Rachel Roberts the Assistant Director for the Institute for Entrepreneurship will advise us on the best use of many social media platforms, using hashtags, and maximizing your marketing!
Listen in on Cultivation Station as we discuss Small Business Money Management! Lisa Hudson the Executive Director of the Eastern Colorado Small Business Development Center and Julie Stiewig the Site Manager of The Block will offer expert advice on money management! We will dive into finding funding, accounting for small businesses and resources available.
Listen to Cultivation Station as we are joined by the Corry Mihm, the Executive Director of the Colorado Agritourism Association, Belleza Pura's owner Natalie Wilson, Sauvage Spectrums own Kaibab Sauvage, and Roy Pfaltzgraff of Pfaltzgraff Farms. This panel of seasoned agritourism experts will discuss how important agritourism is to Colorado's economy, and share their journey to success as established agritourism destinations!
Listen to Cultivation Station as we are joined by Colorado Department of Agriculture's Brian Pauley (Section Chief - Fruit & Vegetable Inspection Service), Steve Lopez (Lead Audit Coordinator) and Colorado State University's Sheila Gains M.S. (Family & Consumer Science Specialist - Master Instructor - Arapahoe County Extension), and Mary Snow (Extension County Specialist – Family and Consumer Science/Family Resource Management) and they discuss the importance of food safety for our health and wellbeing, as well as the rules and regulations around it. Our conversation will look at food safety training for Cottage Food producers and offer insights and contacts for our Colorado Proud members!
Learn from industry experts within the digital marketing spaces. Listen on Cultivation Station to Greg Bloom (owner of Barbers Farm), Sarah Rhoades (Entrepreneurship Business Resident at Colorado State University - College of Business), and Gretchen Bloom (Owner of Magnetic Digital Marketing) discuss why digital marketing is important, and how to use it to maximize your return on investment and grow your business!
Farmers Markets: How to be Successful and Vendor Resources for our Colorado Proud Members.
Plant Forward Diets: What Are These and How Can Colorado Producers Benefit From This Marketing Campaign Speakers: Kate Schulz RDN, LD, LMNT - Nutrition and Health Promotion Consultant with the Colorado Beef Council
Derrick Hoffman - Owner Hoffman Farms, Greeley Colorado
Dr Kim Cox-York - Colorado State University - Associate Professor, Responsible Conduct of Research Coordinator and Research Integrity Officer (RIO), Colorado State University
This podcast will take a look at a relatively new marketing campaign that is being used to showcase beef and vegetables together as a choice for a healthy lifestyle. We are joined by the Colorado Beef Council, a Colorado Proud vegetable grower and a Nutrition Professor at Colorado State University. Our panel will explore the impact this campaign has made and provide insights to our members on how to utilize these types of marketing platforms to highlight their Colorado products.
Cultivation Station is starting season 2 and would like to thank our listeners for the continued support. In this episode we talk with:
Richard & Mary Warner - Owners of Bingo Burger
Sonia Riggs President & CEO of Colorado Restaurant Association
Caroline Glover - Chef/Owner of Annette - Scratch to Table Restaurant Daniel Asher - Executive Chef & Partner - Working Title Food Group This podcast will take a look at the changes in restaurant business and behavior and what we expect to see for 2023. We are joined by the CEO of the Colorado Restaurant Association and 3 Colorado based, local product focused restaurants.
Join us for a look at the agriculture/food/beverage industry trends of 2022, while we predict trends for 2023. We have three great guests chatting with us.
We chat with the Colorado Grain Chain. There are many ways to work with them and grow your small business by using local grains.
Our food system is constantly adapting to fit current needs. Businesses and organizations are reimagining the food industry to increase food accessibility in Colorado. Bondadosa is a great example of the amazing innovation occurring in our state’s food ecosystem. Bondadosa works with local growers and food producers, providing logistical support, fulfillment, warehousing, customer service, to deliver healthy options in the Denver Metro. Listen as I sit down with Bondadosa representative, Maggie Brown, and two local food producers currently distributing with them and see how you might be able to start a partnership with them!
Have you considered adding agritourism activities to your farm or operation? Whether it be tractor rides, farm tours, farm to table dinners, or the many other possibilities to bring tourists to your farm, agritourism can be a great way to add a revenue stream.
In this episode of Cultivation Station we speak with Dawn Thilmany from CSU Extension, Andrew Grossman, the director of Destination Development to discuss the CRAFT program, grant opportunities, and other agritourism resources, and Lynn Gillespee from The Living Farm, who discusses her own personal experiences and insight to running an agritourism operation.
You’ve invested a lot of time perfecting your recipe and getting your product to market. Before you can hit the shelves, you need to make sure you have an accurate nutrition label. The process of getting the label can seem daunting. In this episode we will speak with experts from CSU Food Processing Lab, and On the Menu, a Nutrition Consulting company, who will guide you through nutrition testing and lend some advice to those starting the process.
Grants are everywhere and can seem daunting. Take a listen to our latest episode of Cultivation Station to ease some of those fears. Grants are valuable resources and are plentiful, especially now. Learn some tips and tricks, and points of contact that can help you move through the process. We speak with Jennifer Benson with CDA We speak with Jude from MORP And from CSU we speak with Dr. Becca Jablonski
Our new hosts Catherine Boxler talks with experts about exporting your product (food, agricultural, or beverage). She talks first with John Addison and Ashley Warsh from our very own Department of Agriculture.
Cat then talks with Chef Kelly with Merfs Hot Sauce.
Exporting is an important part of every businesses long term plan.
Have you ever considered selling your food, beverage, or agricultural products to educational and/or government facilities? It is a very viable market with lots of growth from interest in local food procurement. Learn about how to get started in this unique market channel. We talk with Catherine Blackwell with Browns Farm, Stephen Menyhart with Boulder Valley School District, and Rebecca Boone with the Colorado Department of Education School Nutrition Division.
Resources:
https://nourishcolorado.org/nourish-institutions/#LoProCo
https://www.fns.usda.gov/cfs/farm-school-grant-program
Your brand tells a story to your customer that sticks with them long after they have used or consumed your products. Is your brand telling the right story? In this episode of Cultivation Station we talk with some heavy hitters in the retail world, and the brand builder that helped them get there. Joining us is John Recca - BrandWerks, Moni- Grandma's Noodles, Lori - Mulay Sausage, and Gina - Gina Cucina. These brands are in retailers because they convey their story and purpose concisely. Find out how they got there and the process to really sharpen your branding.
Time Stamps:1:25 John, Moni, Lori 25:26 Gina, John
We take a look at the consumer and marketing trends we saw pop up and accelerate just like COVID-19. Some trends and marketing tactics are here to stay, while others will eventually fade out. Hear from our expert guests on the show about how to position yourself for success moving forward. Time-stamps: 1:15 - Dr. Dawn Thilmlany and Dr. Becca Jablonski with Colorado State University's College of Agricultural Sciences Agricultural Economics and Resource Department (https://dare.agsci.colostate.edu/) (localfoodeconomics.com)
21:20 - CEO Laura Zaspel with Serendipity Catering in Denver 36:00 - Owner Kristine Root with ROOt Marketing and PR in Boulder
Worried about upcoming GAP/GIB audits? Confused how the produce safety rule mixes in with those? We have got you covered! We speak with our own state employees on how to get prepared, resources to utilize for both information and cost assistance, as well as producers who have been there and done that for the audit game. Please contact danielle.trotta@state.co.us with any questions, or podcast topic suggestions. Time Stamps: 1:02 - Colorado Department of Agriculture's Fruit and Vegetable Inspection Team - Brian Pauley (brian.pauley@state.co.us) and Steve Lopez (steve.lopez@state.co.us). More information at https://ag.colorado.gov/markets/fruit-vegetable-section 13:30 - Aspen Produce LLC - Jon Gonzales Food Safety/Quality Control Supervisor. More information at https://www.aspenllc.com/ 18:04 - Milberger Farms - Shane Milberger Owner/Operator. More information at http://milbergerfarms.com/ 28:26 - Colorado Department of Agriculture's Produce Safety Manager with Inspection and Consumer Services - Duane Sinning (duane.sinning@state.co.us). More information: coproducesafety.org http://freshproduce.colostate.edu/ https://www.fda.gov/food/food-safety-modernization-act-fsma/fsma-final-rule-produce-safety
Has anyone in your family's operation considered what might happen after retirement or the passing of a matriarch or patriarch of the family? Many family operations do not have an estate or succession plan in place. In this month's episode, we take a look at the process of starting a plan or how to find resources to help! Lori Hulbert - 1:10 Amanda Matthews - 19:30 Mark A. Gallegos - 35:10 Lori Hulbert - SGR, LLC - Attorney - lhulbert@sgrllc.com Amanda Matthews - Highland Stock Farms - Rancher - amandagracematthews@gmail.com Mark A. Gallegos - Colorado Department Agriculture - MarkA.Gallegos@state.co.us - 303.869.9090
You might be ready to make the leap from cottage foods in your own kitchen to a shared commercial kitchen space. This is a big leap, but one that many companies need to make to continue to grow. Join us for this months episode, where we dive into business incubators and commissary kitchens. We talk with a company who grew out of a commissary and into their own facility, a commissary kitchen owner who thrives on her tenants succeeding, and a business incubator that not only has a commercial kitchen but offers lots of other business resources. They have some good advice and we can't wait to share it with you! 0:58 Laura Mercier - Grand Junction Business Incubator - Info Here!
22:00 Justin Park- The Real Dill - Info Here! 45:00 Alexandra - Commissary 5280 - Info Here!
Your product is popular and selling...you're doing well at farmers' markets. Now, how do you get your product onto retail shelves and beyond? In our next episode, "Ready for Retail? Steps for Success," we'll discuss the logistics of your supply chain, transportation, and winning the distribution game. Join us and get ready for some insider tips and tricks in this episode of Cultivation Station.
Order of appearance: Ben Deda, CEO of FoodMaven Ashley Warsh, CDA Markets Division International Marketing Assistance - ashley.warsh@state.co.us Darrelle Weyant, Vendor Relations Manager of LoCo Foods Rob and Tiana, Owners of FishSki Provisions
Interested in selling your own home-grown produce at farmers' markets, roadside stands or through Community Supported Agriculture programs? This episode will help guide you through the process. We talk with a family farm that operates the largest CSA program in the Denver area, our own Colorado Proud program manager, Colorado State Extension Food Systems team, and the Colorado Farmers Market Association. Most importantly, we put the COVID-19 lens on this summer's situation and learn how to be adaptable and successful. All you need to know to begin selling your produce is right here on the Cultivation Station!
Listening Legend and Resources: * 1:00 minute Fleischer Family Farm * 17:00 minutes Wendy White - Colorado Proud * 23:30 minutes Martha Sullins and Christy Dice - Colorado State University Extension * 41:20 minutes Rosalind May - Colorado Farmers Market Association
Resources: Fleischerfamilyfarm.com Coloradoproud.org Foodsystems.colostate.edu cofarmersmarkets.org cofarmtomarket.com danielle.trotta@state.co.us
Have you considering or are you already selling animal protein products off of your farm, ranch, or small acreage? It is a great way to diversify your operation and add some income to your bottom line. In this episode, we will explore all it takes to sell animal protein products off of your place. Listening Legend and Resources: 0:45 - Inspector Consumer Services, Steve Blunt - Differences between processing facilities and a plan of action. 6:34 - Valley Packing and Catering Custom Exempt Plant, Luke Miller - What you need to know and plan for your processing appointment. 9:52 - Elizabeth Meat Locker USDA Inspected Plant, Justin Hundley - What you need to know and plan for your processing appointment. 13:50 - Prosper Meats, Julie Mackay - Selling beef on-line. 23:26 - Triple M Bar Ranch, Mary Miller - Selling lamb at farmers markets. 40:35 - Where Food Comes From, Inc., Leann Saunders - Value added distinctions and market differentiation. 40:58 - Colorado State University Food Systems Extension, Martha Sullins - Producer issues and resources and consumer trends. * Inspection and Consumer Services - https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/aginspection steve.blunt@state.co.us * USDA - https://www.ams.usda.gov/rules-regulations * Valley Packing and Catering - https://www.valleypacking.com/ * Elizabeth Meat Locker - https://www.facebook.com/elpcolorado/ * Prosper Meats - https://prospermeats.com/ * Triple M Bar Ranch - https://www.triplembar.com/ * Where Food Comes From, Inc - http://wherefoodcomesfrom.com/ * Colorado State University Food Systems -https://foodsystems.colostate.edu/ , https://cofarmtomarket.com/ Martha Sullins - martha.sullins@colostate.edu * Colorado Proud - https://www.colorado.gov/agmarkets/colorado-proud
In this episode of Cultivation Station our guest is Sari Kimbell, a food business consultant who is well versed in the realm of business promotion. We discuss marketing tips and tricks, networking, and how to navigate the startup and idea process. Sari is passionate about her successful work of promoting heros in the local food system.
Find more information post-podcast here: Sari Kimbell Food Business Consulting
Have you ever wondered how to turn your famous recipe into a sellable product? In this episode of Cultivation Station we explore the Colorado Cottage food act with Brianne Rael, Environmental Protection Specialist with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. It’s a complex topic, and we take things nice and slow to help you gain a basic understanding of the act.
Find more information post-podcast here: Farm to Table with Colorado State University.
This episode of Cultivation Station explores the economic climate of small food and ag businesses in Colorado. Our guests are Dr. Dawn Thilmany and Dr. Becca Jablonski of Colorado State University's College of Agricultural Sciences in Agricultural & Resource Economics. Both have conducted extensive research specifically related to the economics of small food and ag businesses.
Links mentioned in the podcast:
Farm to Table with Colorado State University
Ag and Resource Economics Department Outreach with Colorado State University
Food Systems with Colorado State University