Dynamic keynote speakers to headline IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show
The International Fresh Produce Association announced its highly anticipated keynote speaker lineup for the 2025 Global Produce & Floral Show, taking place in Anaheim, CA, Oct. 16–18. This year’s event will feature a powerhouse slate of leaders, innovators and change-makers from across sectors who are set to inspire, challenge and energize attendees in the global produce and floral industry.
The show kicks off with a deep dive into the trends shaping the future of the industry, followed by general sessions packed with fresh insights and compelling personal stories.
“This speaker lineup is exactly what our industry needs right now — bold voices, fresh ideas and real inspiration,” said Tom Pierce, director of supplier development at Sobeys and Global Produce and Floral Show committee member. “These sessions will spark important conversations and energize everyone attending the show.
Keynote Speaker Lineup
State of the Industry — Oct. 16 | 8:45 a.m.
Cathy Burns, CEO of IFPA, will once again open the show with her highly anticipated State of the Industry presentation. Burns will bring the organization's insight on key trends, challenges, and opportunities—and what they mean for association members and the global produce and floral community.
General Session: Leading Through Turbulence — Oct. 16 | 1:00 p.m.
Later that day, Sarah Robb O’Hagan, executive, entrepreneur, author and founder of Extreme Living, will keynote the Leading Through Turbulence General Session. Known for transforming iconic brands like EXOS and Gatorade, O’Hagan brings bold insights on how to embrace headwinds to sharpen performance and seize tailwinds to accelerate success. She will challenge us to change the game — reshaping the competitive landscape so others follow your lead.
Following her keynote, a panel of industry leaders will unpack how her high-performance principles can be applied to today’s most pressing challenges — from supply chain disruptions to evolving consumer behaviors and economic volatility.
General Session: The “No Barriers” Life — Oct. 17 | 8:35 a.m.
The following day, Erik Weihenmayer, a world-class blind adventurer who has summited Mt. Everest and kayaked the Grand Canyon, will deliver a moving and motivational keynote titled “The ‘No Barriers’ Life.” Through stories of extreme challenge and triumph, Weihenmayer explores how individuals and teams can turn adversity into advantage, build strong support systems and reach for seemingly impossible goals. Discover the mindset needed to shatter barriers, embrace innovation and lead with purpose.
Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast: Breaking Barriers & Owning the Huddle — Oct. 18 | 7:45 a.m.
Rounding out the slate of General Sessions is The Women’s Fresh Perspectives Breakfast, where attendees will hear from Amy Trask, former CEO of the Raiders and Current CBS Sports Analyst. In “Breaking Barriers & Owning the Huddle,” the NFL’s first female front office executive and a true game changer in business and broadcasting will bring candid insights on leadership, resilience and owning your seat at the table.
Only attendees with an All-Access Pass can attend these sessions. For more information or to register for the world’s largest fresh produce and floral trade show, visit IFPA’s website.
