TAMPA, FL - In our industry, it’s all about connection. Patrick Kelly, the Founder and host of The Produce Industry Podcast, knows this better than most. To capitalize on networking, the podcast/media platform will host its first in-person networking event ahead of the Southeast Produce Council's Southern Exposure in Tampa, Florida, on March 7, 2024.

“It’s time to bring the power of our virtual networking events to life! I’m excited to host our sponsors and community of produce industry supply chain friends in the podcast’s hometown of Tampa, Florida, for our first—of many to come—in-person networking events,” Kelly shared.

According to a press release, the event is supported by the generosity of title sponsors Continental Fresh, BelleHarvest, Sev-Rend, Arctic Apples, and Noble Citrus. It is powered by Ten Acre Marketing and Golden Star Citrus.

For those interested in attending, here’s the latest deets. VIP guests will set sail on a three-hour harbor cruise of Tampa Bay on the evening of Thursday, March 7. Guests will be joined by Feeding Tampa Bay’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Thomas Mantz, a meeting made possible thanks to the sponsorship by Thx! Dreams. There will also be a surprise guest onboard for the event.

“This exclusive networking opportunity will allow us to celebrate the business relationships that have been fostered through the podcast over the past 3 ½ years,” Kelly added. “Our community continues to grow, and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate our home-runs and touchdowns over the years as we continue to collaborate to advance the fresh produce supply chain, in the city that I love—Tampa.”

Founded by Kelly in 2020, The Produce Industry Podcast media platform has grown to include The Produce Industry Show on YouTube, Fresh From the Field Fridays featuring host Dan Avakian, The Global Fresh Series featuring host Juantia Gaglio, and The History of Produce featuring host John Paap. As a release noted, the media platform engages more than 24,000 listeners weekly, and reached the admirable milestone of 1 million downloads in 2023.

This exclusive event is by invitation only.

Perhaps we’ll see you there!