In today’s world of fast food, packaged snacks, and convenience culture, it’s easy to forget about the people who make it possible for fresh fruits and vegetables to reach our tables every day. Patrick Kelly, entrepreneur, supply chain executive, and published author, has made it his mission to change that narrative. With over 15 years of experience in the fresh produce industry and a unique vision for bridging communication gaps across the supply chain, Patrick has become one of the most recognizable and trusted voices in global agriculture.
From Logistics to Leadership
Patrick Kelly’s career didn’t begin in front of microphones or behind cameras. It started on the ground, deep within the operational heart of the produce industry. For more than a decade, Patrick worked across distribution, logistics, and supply chain management. He saw firsthand the challenges growers faced in moving product, the struggles distributors endured in keeping up with demand, and the realities retailers confronted in meeting customer expectations.
This practical knowledge gave him a rare, 360-degree view of how the industry functioned — and more importantly, where its blind spots were.
“I realized early on that while fresh produce feeds the world, the people behind it weren’t always getting the recognition they deserved,” Patrick explains. “There wasn’t enough storytelling happening in agriculture. And without storytelling, it’s hard to inspire change or connect with consumers.”
Building a Media Platform for Agriculture
He was inspired by a true visionary and friend Chris Krimitsos of Podfest Global to launch of The Produce Industry Podcast, which quickly became a hub for conversations with industry leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs across the globe. What began as a passion project soon evolved into a powerful platform. Today, the podcast is complemented by Aglife Media, Inc., Patrick’s media company that produces multiple shows, videos, and digital content designed to bring agriculture into the spotlight.
Through Aglife Media, Patrick has created a network that connects growers, distributors, retailers, and consumers in a way that hasn’t been done before. By blending traditional supply chain expertise with modern storytelling tools — podcasting, video, and digital transformation — he has given agriculture a new kind of visibility.
“We’re not just talking about fruits and vegetables,” Patrick says. “We’re talking about people, families, communities, and a global system that deserves more appreciation. My mission is to put produce in the front row — ahead of chips and candy.”
Overcoming Challenges With Persistence
Of course, the road hasn’t always been smooth. When Patrick first introduced the idea of merging produce with media, many in the industry were skeptical. Agriculture had long been considered too traditional, too behind-the-scenes, to merge with storytelling and digital branding.
“There were times people looked at me like I was crazy,” Patrick recalls. “They didn’t see how a podcast could add value to the agriculture space. And like any entrepreneur, I had to deal with the usual challenges — limited resources, long hours, and building something from the ground up.” Heck, I remember recording in my car, in the closet and anywhere I deemed suitable.
But persistence, authenticity, and a clear vision carried him through. By surrounding himself with mentors and collaborators who believed in his mission, Patrick turned obstacles into stepping stones. Today, The Produce Industry Podcast and Aglife Media are respected platforms with a growing international audience.
Career Highlights and Recognition
Patrick Kelly’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed. Over the years, he has been recognized with numerous awards and honors, including being named a “40 Under 40” honoree by Produce Business Journal in 2015, receiving the Next Generation Award from the Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) in 2021, and earning the Leadership Award from the International Pineapple Organization.
His work has also been featured in Bloomberg and Yahoo Finance, and he was named the Official Voice of the Produce Industry by Podfest Global — a title that reflects both his influence and his authenticity.
But for Patrick, the real highlight has been the partnerships and community he has built along the way. “Awards are nice, but what matters most to me is creating a platform that unifies the industry and gives it a stronger voice,” he says.
A Unique Perspective: Blending Media and Supply Chain
What truly sets Patrick apart is his ability to connect two worlds that rarely intersect: the hands-on, often invisible work of supply chain management and the high-visibility power of media. Few people can speak both languages, but Patrick’s background allows him to translate the challenges of growers and distributors into stories that resonate with consumers and policymakers alike.
This unique perspective has made him not just a voice within agriculture but also a bridge between the industry and the wider public. By spotlighting stories of innovation, resilience, and growth, Patrick is redefining how people think about farming and food.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Patrick’s influence extends beyond the present moment, he’s also shaping the future. Through Aglife Media and his podcast, he’s inspiring younger generations to think differently about agriculture. His work highlights not only the importance of fresh produce but also the role of digital transformation, podcasting, and storytelling in building modern industries.
“Digital transformation isn’t just for tech companies,” Patrick emphasizes. “It’s happening in agriculture too. Podcasting, advertising, and storytelling are tools that can help the industry evolve, attract new talent, and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.”
Looking Ahead
When asked where he sees himself in a few years, Patrick talks about growth; not just for his own brand, but for the entire produce industry. He envisions Aglife Media becoming a leading global platform for agricultural storytelling, with expanded shows, larger audiences, and even stronger partnerships.
“My dream is that when people think of agriculture, they don’t just picture farms,” he says. “They picture the innovators, the entrepreneurs, and the supply chains that make it possible. I want to help create a world where agriculture is celebrated and understood on a deeper level.”
A Trusted Voice for Agriculture
Patrick Kelly’s journey is one of persistence, innovation, and passion. From his early days in distribution and logistics to becoming a recognized media voice, he has remained committed to a simple but powerful mission: giving fresh produce and the people behind it the attention they deserve.
Through Aglife Media, The Produce Industry Podcast, and his relentless advocacy for storytelling in agriculture, Patrick is redefining what leadership looks like in this essential industry. His work is uplifting, inspirational, and rooted in growth — not just for himself, but for everyone who brings food to our tables.
Connect with Patrick Kelly:
- Facebook: The Produce Industry Podcast
- Instagram: @theproduceindustrynetwork
- LinkedIn: Patrick Kelly
- YouTube: The Produce Industry Show
