This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Mishkaat “Mish” Anderson, General Manager of Culdevco, South Africa’s cultivar management company responsible for commercialising varieties bred by the Agricultural Research Council (ARC).Celebrating 20 years in the industry, Culdevco has shaped the deciduous fruit landscape—bringing to market some of the country’s most successful stone fruit, pome fruit, table grape and raisin varieties. From global success stories like Ruby Sun, Ruby Star, African Delight, and Cheeky Pear, to the exciting new K-Blush early pear, Culdevco’s breeding and commercialisation pipeline is deeply rooted in local adaptation, long-term sustainability, and grower value.Key Takeaways•South Africa’s leading plum cultivars (Ruby Sun, Ruby Star, African Delight) are ARC-bred and Culdevco-commercialised•The new K-Blush pear is showing exceptional promise as an ultra-early variety•Low-chill apples are transforming fruit production in warm regions of Africa•Raisin breeding is entering a new era with strong emerging selections•Canning peaches, despite industry challenges, remain a key SA strength•Locally adapted breeding is essential for long-term competitiveness•Culdevco’s 20-year journey emphasises sustainability, clean plant material, and grower support•Empowerment initiatives through Cultipower are strengthening industry transformationConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with David Farrell, Founder and CEO of Blue North Sustainability, to explore one of the most important conversations happening in global agriculture today: the shift toward sustainability, mindset change, carbon measurement, and the future of tools like Sherpa and Carbon Heroes.David shares the remarkable journey that led from his early days as an extension officer in the subtrop industry, to building an export business, to becoming a pioneer in sustainability frameworks that now influence agriculture worldwide. His work helped lay the foundations for major industry initiatives like CSER and Confronting Climate Change, and today Blue North operates across South Africa, Europe, South America, and beyond.This episode goes deep into what sustainability really means for farmers, exporters, buyers, and retail supply chains — beyond compliance, beyond auditing, and into the heart of business resilience and system thinking. David explains why mindsets must shift, how transparency creates opportunity, and why regenerative approaches are resonating with a new generation of agri-professionals.We also unpack the origin and purpose of Carbon Heroes, the evolution of Blue North’s sustainability management platform Sherpa, the role of data and AI in future food systems, and what David would change globally if he had unlimited funding for planetary health.Whether you're a grower, agribusiness leader, exporter, retailer, or simply someone who cares about the future of food — this is a powerful, perspective-shifting conversation.Key Takeaways•The real purpose of sustainability: understanding business within a social and environmental system.•Why farmers initially resisted audits — and what helped shift mindsets.•The origin stories behind CSER and Confronting Climate Change.•How Carbon Heroes helps growers communicate positive sustainability actions credibly.•What Sherpa does and why it’s becoming a global sustainability management tool.•The challenges of carbon credits — and why Blue North takes a cautious stance.•How AI will accelerate sustainability insights and decision-making.•Why global agriculture needs a “paradigm shift” in worldview.•What David would do with unlimited funding to improve planetary health.More about Blue North: https://bluenorth.co.za/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Michael Esmeraldo, Managing Director of Netafim Southern & East Africa, for a fascinating deep dive into the past, present, and future of irrigation across Africa.Michael shares his journey from agronomist to MD, explains Netafim’s global footprint and South African manufacturing capabilities, and unpacks the dramatic shifts happening in irrigation technology — from subsurface drip to cloud-based control systems, automation, and the growing role of AI.The conversation also dives into water scarcity, crop innovation, blueberry and citrus expansions, irrigation challenges in maize and sugarcane, as well as Africa’s development opportunities in countries like Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Kenya, Ghana, and beyond.Michael also speaks passionately about South Africa’s resilience, the mindset shift after the Day Zero drought, and why he believes now is the most optimistic he’s felt about the country in a decade.Key Takeaways•South Africa is far ahead of the global average in drip irrigation adoption, but major opportunities still exist.•Subsurface irrigation is revolutionising crops like sugarcane and may expand to more crops over time.•New cultivars in blueberries and other fruit crops are reshaping global demand.•Cloud-based irrigation control is now a reality for farmers, enabling automation, better reporting and fewer errors.•AI-driven recommendations for irrigation and fertigation are close to becoming mainstream.•Recycling of irrigation plastics is a major future shift — and a business opportunity.•Africa holds enormous agricultural potential, but development and education must accelerate.•South African farmers remain among the most resilient and innovative in the world.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Angus Davison, Founder and Chairman of Haygrove, a global leader in high-tech growing systems and berry, cherry, and horticultural farming.Angus shares the remarkable story of how Haygrove began as a single university thesis project in the UK and evolved into an international operation supplying polythene tunnels, net systems, and advanced growing solutions to more than 50 countries while farming 600+ hectares of berries and cherries across the UK, South Africa, Portugal, and China.From the origins of modern multi-bay tunnels to Haygrove’s bold expansion into key global regions, this conversation dives deep into the mindset, innovation, and long-term strategy that shaped one of the world’s most influential horticultural companies.Angus also unpacks the future of protected cropping — including rising opportunities in kiwis, cherries, sweet peppers, tomatoes, and even avocados — while reflecting on climate challenges, technological innovation, retailer pressures, global labor mobility, and why he believes Southern Africa is one of the best regions in the world for agricultural investment.This is a rich, inspiring conversation with one of the most respected thinkers in global fruit production.Key Takeaways:•Innovation often starts small — but grows through perseverance and learning•Protected cropping is the backbone of future horticulture•Southern Africa remains a uniquely strong investment opportunity•Empowering labor can transform entire communities•Berry and cherry demand will continue to grow for decades•Leadership requires curiosity, global perspective, and long-term thinkingConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Hans Liekens, Global Head of Marketing & Innovation at Planasa, one of the world’s largest berry-breeding powerhouses. Recorded live at the IBO Summit, this conversation dives deep into the future of blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, asparagus, avocados and even zero-chill cherries.Hans shares his journey from major FMCG companies like PepsiCo and Chiquita to leading innovation in global horticulture. The discussion covers the expanding role of genetics, new breeding programs, global retail trends, sustainability, organic production, and South Africa’s hidden competitive advantages in the global berry market.From carbon footprint calculations that favour South African exporters, to why flavour segmentation will become the “pink lady moment” for blueberries, Hans offers a rare insider’s perspective from someone who speaks directly with supermarket buyers worldwide.He also reveals exciting developments such as low-chill cherries, new raspberry and blackberry genetics coming to South Africa, and Planasa’s expanding global R&D network across seven regions.Whether you're in berry production, horticulture, agribusiness, retail sourcing, or simply passionate about the future of fresh produce, this episode offers a wealth of insight into how global trends are reshaping the industry.Key Takeaways•Planasa’s expansion from asparagus and strawberries into all four major berries — blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries — plus avocados and zero-chill cherries.•South Africa’s unique advantages: sustainability, shipping carbon footprint, flavour profile, season length, and potential for organic production.•Why supermarkets increasingly want one-stop suppliers and how this benefits Southern African growers.•The massive gap and opportunity in organic blueberries for Europe and the UK.•Why flavour segmentation in blueberries will follow the same trajectory as tomatoes and Pink Lady apples.•How supermarkets’ sourcing models, climate constraints, and consumer expectations shape global breeding pipelines.•The importance of the IBO Summit for global collaboration, networking, and industry alignment.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Dr. Boitshoko Ntshabele, Chief Executive Officer of the Citrus Growers’ Association of Southern Africa (CGA), to unpack one of the most remarkable citrus seasons South Africa has ever recorded.Based on the insights shared in this in-depth conversation, we explore the industry’s 203.4 million carton season, market performance across the globe, logistics improvements, policy developments, the rise of young growers, and the road ahead to Vision 260.From booming demand in India, to protocol changes in China, to the surprising resilience of exports despite US tariff disruptions — this episode gives a rare and comprehensive look inside the engine room of one of South Africa’s most dynamic agricultural sectors.Dr. Ntshabele also reflects on his first season as CGA CEO, the adjustments of moving from government into industry, and the strategic priorities shaping the future of SA citrus.Key Takeaways:•SA citrus is performing at world-class levels, with exceptional fruit quality and strong global demand.•Logistics improvements played a decisive role in the success of the 2025 season.•India and Asia represent massive long-term growth opportunities.•Protocol improvements, especially on cold treatment, will unlock better returns for growers.•Vision 260 is realistic — and the industry is already over 200 million cartons.•Local research and extension remain the backbone of SA’s global competitiveness.•Young people are entering the citrus sector in large numbers, signalling a healthy future.•Leadership in agriculture needs collaboration with government, strong strategy, and constant demand creation.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Jon Salters, CEO of United Exports and Director at Berries ZA, for an in-depth conversation about the rapidly evolving global blueberry industry — and South Africa’s growing role on the world stage.Recorded during the IBO Summit in Cape Town, this discussion dives into the market forces, genetics, branding, labour, and global consumer trends reshaping blueberries into one of the most dynamic fresh produce sectors worldwide.Jon shares rare insights from United Exports’ global footprint — spanning South Africa, Peru, Mexico, USA, Spain, Portugal and Australia — and explains why premium genetics, strong supply chains, and consistent quality are becoming the core differentiators in a competitive global landscape.He also unpacks how consumer behaviour in markets like China and India is shifting rapidly, and why South Africa is well positioned to capture demand for premium blueberries.This episode is essential listening for growers, exporters, agribusiness leaders and anyone interested in where the global berry industry is headed.Key Takeaways•South Africa is now recognised as a major global player in premium blueberry genetics and production.•Consumer demand for high-quality blueberries continues to grow worldwide, especially in China and India.•Premium genetics, flavour, firmness, and shelf life define market competitiveness.•The move from air freight to sea freight has transformed export viability.•Branding and quality consistency will shape the next era of blueberry marketing.•R&D and technological innovation remain essential, from breeding to post-harvest to supply chain optimisation.•Blueberries provide one of the highest job creation ratios per hectare in South African agriculture.•Berries ZA is playing an increasingly critical role in market access, regulatory alignment and sector development.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Werner Opperman, Head of Capital Partners at 27four Investment Managers and the lead behind Agrarius, to unpack the evolving world of agricultural finance, investment opportunities, sustainability, risk, and the future role of technology in food production.Werner has been a guest on the podcast twice before, but this conversation goes deeper than ever. Together, the hosts explore how Agrarius—South Africa’s JSE-listed agricultural investment vehicle—structures capital solutions for producers, why agriculture is misunderstood by traditional finance, and why global investors are increasingly looking to Southern Africa for food security.This two-hour discussion covers everything from risk modelling and project-based funding to global trade dynamics, carbon credits, sustainability standards, AI in agriculture, and the major infrastructure constraints facing South African agribusiness today.Key Takeaways•Agriculture is far less risky than people believe—the real issue is perception and lack of specialist knowledge.•South Africa remains an attractive investment destination for agricultural production despite tough local conditions.•Impact investment works best when tied to measurable, science-based standards, something the industry urgently needs.•AI is accelerating rapidly, already transforming analysis, packing, risk assessment, and livestock management.•Carbon credits have huge potential, but the global standardisation gap is preventing widespread adoption.•Collaboration across funds, exporters, farmers, and government is essential for building infrastructure and long-term food security.Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Colin Fain, CEO of Agronometrics, and Louw Pienaar, Senior Analyst at the Bureau for Food and Agricultural Policy (BFAP).Together, they unpack the story behind the global blueberry boom — and why South Africa is emerging as one of the world’s most promising producers.From the IBO Global Blueberry Report to tariff negotiations, labor trends, and local market growth, this conversation brings deep insight into the data that’s driving the fruit industry forward. Colin and Louw explore how reliable analytics and policy foresight are shaping decisions in trade, production, and market access — and why it’s time for South Africans to back themselves as global agricultural leaders.Key Takeaways:•How global data is helping farmers and exporters make better decisions.•Why South Africa’s blueberry industry has unique structural advantages.•The role of tariffs and trade agreements in shaping future growth.•What the U.S., Peru, and South Africa can learn from each other.•Why domestic blueberry consumption is rising — and how marketing can drive it further.Connect with Colin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/colin-fain-7175623aConnect with Louw on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louw-pienaar-3a6b02b8/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Linda Nielsen, CEO of the Horticultural Development Council (HDC), and Alistair Campbell, Chairman of the HDC, to explore one of Africa’s most exciting agricultural success stories — the rise of Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry.Just ten years ago, Zimbabwe had no commercial blueberry production. Today, it’s gaining international recognition for its premium quality berries, unique marketing window, and growing global influence.Linda and Alistair share the remarkable journey behind this transformation — from overcoming financing and policy challenges to opening new export markets such as China and the Far East.They also discuss how collaboration between growers, government, and development financiers is reshaping the investment narrative for Zimbabwean agriculture — turning “risk” into opportunity.Key Takeaways:•How Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry grew from trials to international exports in under a decade•The role of the Horticultural Development Council (HDC) in shaping agricultural investment policy•Why global buyers now seek out “Product of Zimbabwe” blueberries•Opportunities for investors in horticulture and the country’s expanding production base•The power of collaboration among growers, marketers, and policymakersConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Mario Steta, Chairman of the International Blueberry Organization (IBO) and Vice President of Sustainability, Compliance & Public Affairs at Driscoll’s, for a fascinating discussion on the evolution and future of the global blueberry industry.Speaking from the IBO Summit 2025 in South Africa, Mario shares deep insights into how genetics, government support, infrastructure, and international collaboration are shaping the global fruit industry. From the rise of Peru to the lessons learned from Argentina and Chile, this episode explores what it takes to build a resilient, innovative, and sustainable blueberry sector.Discover how public–private partnerships drive trade access, why “country brands” matter, and how consumer awareness and agricultural storytelling can elevate entire industries. Mario also draws thought-provoking parallels between Mexico and South Africa — and even takes the hosts down a fun detour into the world of blueberry-infused tequila.Key Takeaways•How global trade and genetics transformed blueberry production•Why government collaboration is key to industry success•The role of infrastructure and cold-chain management in competitiveness•Lessons from Peru, Chile, Mexico, and South Africa•The importance of storytelling and national branding in agriculture•Insights on IBO’s future direction and sustainability goalsConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie speak with Luis Miguel Vegas, General Manager of Proarándanos – the Peruvian Blueberry Growers and Exporters Association.From a country once barely present in the blueberry trade, Peru has risen to become the world’s leading blueberry exporter. Luis shares how favorable climate, private-sector leadership, government support, and global trade agreements combined to spark one of agriculture’s most remarkable success stories.The discussion covers how agriculture is now Peru’s largest job creator, the vital role of foreign investment in rural areas, and the industry’s next challenges – from labor and logistics to driving global blueberry consumption. Luis also reflects on the importance of sustainability and diversified ports and offers a glimpse into Peru’s new mega-port projects linking to Asia through the Belt and Road Initiative.Key Takeaways:•How Peru went from zero to #1 in global blueberry exports in a decade•Why agriculture is transforming Peru’s rural economy and reducing poverty•The importance of trade agreements and foreign investment in agri growth•Why industry collaboration and consumer promotion matter for the future of blueberries•How Peru is preparing for logistics and sustainability challenges aheadConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Cort Brazelton, President & CEO of Fall Creek and Founder of the International Blueberry Organization (IBO) — one of the most influential figures in the global blueberry sector.Cort shares the remarkable story of Fall Creek’s growth from a small family nursery in Oregon to a global leader in blueberry genetics and plant supply, and his optimistic outlook for the Southern African blueberry industry.From the early days of the antioxidant boom that put blueberries on the map, to today’s premiumization and flavor-driven markets, this episode explores how genetics, collaboration, and a shared vision are shaping the future of fruit production worldwide.Cort discusses:•The evolution of the global blueberry industry and Fall Creek’s international journey•Why Southern Africa is perfectly positioned for the next wave of blueberry growth•The critical role of flavor, firmness, and genetics in consumer preference•How investment and professionalism will shape the next decade of farming•His personal reflections on leadership, learning, and building a purpose-driven companyPacked with insight, optimism, and global perspective, this conversation reminds us that agriculture’s best future lies in collaboration, innovation, and heart.Key Takeaways:•The blueberry market is still in its early growth phase, with major opportunities in Africa.•Genetics, flavor, and consumer experience are central to future competitiveness.•Institutional investment and professionalization are essential for scaling the industry.•Education and critical thinking remain vital for future agricultural leaders.“Our competition isn’t each other — it’s junk food,” says Cort. “We’re all in this boat together.”Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Reni le Roux, Sales and Marketing Manager at AMANTECO and founder of The Almond Girl, to explore the rise of almonds in South Africa and what it means for farmers, consumers, and the broader agri-sector.Reni shares her family’s pioneering story as South Africa’s first commercial almond producers, the challenges and opportunities of developing a new industry, and how she’s educating consumers through her brand, The Almond Girl. From varieties and flavor differences, to exports, mechanization, and the growing demand for plant protein, this is a fascinating inside look at one of agriculture’s fastest-growing nut crops.Key Takeaways:•How South Africa’s almond industry started and where it’s heading•Why not all almonds are the same: varieties, flavors, and best uses•The role of The Almond Girl in consumer education and direct-to-market sales•Export opportunities and global demand for South African almonds•Lessons in innovation, resilience, and pioneering a niche cropConnect with Reni on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reni-le-roux-3a8a325b/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
This podcast is proudly sponsored by Agrarius. Find out more: https://www.agrarius.co.za/?ref=recR9vP8u5CYfEOek&utm_source=lucentlands&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=LucentLandsPromoVisit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this milestone 100th episode of the Lucentlands Podcast, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with two of the most influential figures in global fruit branding — Abs van Rooyen, the visionary behind Clemengold, and Peter Dahl, founding chairman of the Pink Lady International Alliance.Together, they unpack the fascinating journeys of how these two fruit brands became household names — Pink Lady redefining the apple category globally, and Clemengold transforming South Africa’s citrus landscape.Peter shares the origins of Pink Lady in Western Australia in the 1970s, how government breeders accidentally created a global icon, and the lessons learned in reclaiming control of a brand that had been sold across the world. Abs traces the evolution of Clemengold from a nursery venture to a fully fledged brand — built through innovation, quality control, and an exclusive retail partnership with Woolworths.This episode offers an inside look at what it takes to turn fruit into a brand: from strict licensing and marketing discipline to decades-long investments in consumer trust. It’s a conversation about vision, persistence, and the art of transforming agriculture into global storytelling.Key Takeaways:•Brand control is everything: A brand succeeds when quality, supply, and marketing are tightly managed across the value chain.•Consistency builds trust: Taste, color, packaging, and presentation must stay uniform to create recognition.•Long-term investment pays off: Clemengold and Pink Lady both took more than a decade to reach retail success.•Partnerships matter: Exclusive collaborations (like Clemengold’s with Woolworths) and disciplined marketing (like Pink Lady’s in Europe) are crucial.•Producer ownership: Both guests stress that successful fruit brands must remain farmer-led — not retailer-owned.•Lessons for the next generation: Focus, discipline, and passion are essential if you want to turn an agricultural product into a global icon.As Abs notes: “Be an inch wide and a mile deep — not the other way around.”And Peter adds: “If you want to build a brand, you’d better be passionate about it.”Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1
Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Elmé Coertzer-Boersma, CEO of Agriya (formerly FoodPLUS, the company behind the GlobalG.A.P. standards).Elmé shares her journey from South Africa to leading a global organization, explaining why GlobalG.A.P. remains the world’s benchmark in Good Agricultural Practices, and what the transition to Agriya means for the industry.From the pressures farmers face during audits to the role of sustainability, risk management, and consumer trust, this conversation unpacks the realities of modern agriculture, food safety, and certification. We also touch on technology, AI, and how collaboration can build resilience for both commercial and smallholder farmers worldwide.Key Takeaways:•The difference between GlobalG.A.P. (standards) and Agriya (company)•Why audits matter: ensuring trust, safety, and market access•The balance between food safety, sustainability, and farmer realities•How global standards adapt to local conditions and regulations•The future of certification: AI, collaboration, and consumer transparencyConnect with Elmé on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elmecoetzer/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/
Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Darci Vetter, internationally renowned Food & Agriculture Policy Expert and former U.S. Chief Agricultural Negotiator, to unpack the realities behind trade tariffs, global food security, and the shifting role of agriculture in U.S. and global policy.Darci shares insights from her career in the U.S. Senate, USDA, and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, where she led agricultural negotiations for the Trans-Pacific Partnership. She explains in plain language how tariffs really work, who pays for them, and what this means for producers, exporters, and consumers around the world.From South Africa’s citrus and blueberry industries to U.S. consumers’ grocery bills, Darci highlights how interconnected global food systems are — and what might come next as court cases, political negotiations, and shifting consumer pressures reshape trade policy.The conversation also touches on:•The impact of broad U.S. tariffs on farmers, exporters, and consumers•Why tariffs are essentially “taxes on food” and hit low-income families hardest•The future of U.S. agricultural research and its global role•How bilateral deals affect countries like South Africa•The tension between trade policy and public health goals•Opportunities for regenerative agriculture and supply chain transformationKey Takeaways:•Tariffs are not paid by foreign governments — they raise costs for importers and consumers.•U.S. trade policy is shaping not just economics, but also access to healthy food worldwide.•South Africa’s citrus and fruit industries are deeply exposed to U.S. tariff shifts.•Reduced U.S. investment in agricultural research could have global ripple effects.•Trade negotiations are increasingly linked to health, environment, and investment agendas.Connect with Darci on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darci-vetter/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/
Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie speak with Ilse Trautmann, Deputy Director-General of Agricultural Research and Regulatory Services at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, as she reflects on her extraordinary career and the challenges and opportunities facing agriculture today.From her beginnings in plant physiology to leading diverse teams in research, veterinary services, and agricultural economics, Ilse shares insights into the transformation of South African agriculture, the state of the ARC, and why building capacity and partnerships are crucial for the future. As she prepares for retirement, she discusses her legacy, leadership lessons, and hopes for the next generation entering agriculture.Key Takeaways:•Why research funding and capacity building are essential for South Africa’s farmers•Lessons from Ilse’s leadership journey and management philosophy•The role of soil reform, agritourism, and youth programs in securing the future of food•Behind-the-scenes challenges in government and the importance of partnerships•Ilse’s vision for agriculture beyond her official careerConnect with Ilse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilse-trautmann-14250b17/Connect with us: Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/
Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie sit down with Hugh Campbell, former Hortgro Science General Manager, to reflect on his remarkable career and the evolution of South Africa’s deciduous fruit industry.Hugh shares his journey from farming and international experience in the U.S. and U.K. to decades of leadership in Hortgro, where he played a pivotal role in shaping research, grower support, and technical innovation. He discusses the importance of building research capacity, the role of statutory levies, how science underpins market access, and why mentorship and bursaries are vital for the next generation of agricultural leaders.From cherries in Michigan to managing Vergelegen Estate, to guiding Hortgro Science through transformation and strategy, Hugh’s story is one of vision, collaboration, and commitment to growers.Key Takeaways:•Why research funding is the foundation of a sustainable fruit industry•How Hortgro Science built world-class systems linking growers, researchers, and markets•The importance of bursaries and mentorship in developing future agricultural talent•Challenges of balancing commercial vs. grower interests in industry structures•How science and innovation continue to transform fruit quality, yields, and market accessConnect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/
Support this podcast by buying us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lucentlands?new=1Visit our agricultural stock site: https://lucentlands.smugmug.com/In this episode, hosts Dewald Kirsten and Louise Brodie speak with Nitasha Baijnath-Pillay, Resource & Sustainability Manager at Hortgro, about the complex challenges and opportunities facing South Africa’s deciduous fruit sector.Nitasha shares insights from her 20+ years in environmental and resource management, now applied directly in agriculture. She discusses how climate change, plastic alternatives, carbon credits, ESG compliance, and smart agriculture are shaping the future of fruit farming.From soil health to packaging innovations, and from EU regulations to carbon tax, this conversation dives deep into what it means to build a resilient, sustainable industry.Key Takeaways:•Why plastics aren’t the enemy—but poor management is•How global regulations like the EU’s Farm-to-Fork strategy impact South African farmers•The role of carbon footprinting, credits, and taxes in agriculture’s future•Smart agriculture tools: climate apps, soil health practices, and precision farming•ESG compliance as the gateway to market access in 86 countriesWhether you’re a grower, exporter, policymaker, or consumer, this episode reveals the realities and innovations shaping fruit farming in a climate-conscious world.Connect with Nitasha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitasha-baijnath-pillay-a17690154/Connect with us:Website: https://lucentlands.co.za/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucentlandsmedia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucentlandsmediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lucentlandsmedia/