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PODCAST

The Buyer"s Desk

Independent Natural Food Retailers Association

Join Promotions Program Manager Chris Sorensen and Director of Member Programs Angela Bozo on The Buyer’s Desk, where they connect conscious brands, independent natural food retailers, and industry partners to dive into the most pressing topics in natural foods today. From regenerative agriculture to strategic merchandising, The Buyer’s Desk is your go-to resource for all things natural food retail!

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All Episodes

27:11

Introducing The Good Collective: An Exclusive Brand...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/10/28

This episode is brought to you by Edna’s Non-Alcoholic Cocktails.In this episode, we dive into INFRA’s latest private label initiative—The Good Collective—a bold new wellness brand created exclusively for our independent retailer community. Hear from INFRA President & CEO Pat Sheridan and Wellness Strategist Sarah Super about the why behind the brand, the importance of differentiation in a competitive market, and how this strategic focus on wellness products is designed to help INFRA Members

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34:57

From Concept to Shelf: How CADIA Supports Independent...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/10/21

This episode is brought to you by Unreal.This week on the show, we welcome Tyler Hemming, Director Sales Strategy, and Linda Stielstra, Director of Business Management, from CADIA, INFRA’s close partner in the private label space. They chat with Chris about strategies for product development, sourcing, sustainability, and current challenges in the supply chain. They also emphasis the importance of feedback from retailers, while looking forward to the future of the private label market.Next week,

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24:42

The Private Label Playbook with Kelly Miles

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/10/14

This episode is brought to you by DeSoi.In this episode, Chris chats with INFRA’s own Manager of Member Success, Kelly Miles. Hear from Kelly about the urgency of adopting private label strategies at a time where shoppers are looking for value in their shopping experience. They’ll also delve into the balance between private label and emerging brands, the spectrum of quality in private label offerings, and how INFRA Members can improve price perception by adopting their own private label

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20:38

Unpacking Private Label with SPINS

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/10/07

This episode is brought to you by Mingle Mocktails.This month, we’re tackling a topic that’s taken the natural grocery retail landscape by storm—private label.From Whole Food’s 365 line to Albertson’s O Organics, there’s no denying that private label products drive real customer value.In this episode, Angela chats with SPINS Senior Retail Insights Manager Jim Olson to learn more about why independent retailers should capitalize on the trend. We’ll explore some of the most exciting opportunities in

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28:41

From Family Roots to Industry Impact with True Grace

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/09/30

In this episode, Angela sits down with Brian and Kristie Hall, Co-Founders of True Grace, a family-owned supplement company. They delve into the company's mission-driven approach, focusing on True Grace's larger impact on human health, planet health, and the natural foods industry.The Halls share their journey of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic, their commitment to sustainable packaging, and the unique challenges and benefits of being a mission-based company. They also discuss their

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34:57

Organic Integrity in a Changing Marketplace with Max...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/09/23

This week on The Buyers Desk, Chris chats with a strong leader and watchdog in the organic space, Max Goldberg of Organic Insider. They'll delve into the complexities of maintaining organic standards—from the new era of hydroponics to the increasing number of fraudulent “organic” imports. Tune in for an insightful discussion on protecting the future of organic food!Next week, we’re rounding out the month with a message from our partner and 20 years sponsor—True Grace. Hear from Founders Brian and

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30:58

Revolutionizing Agriculture with the Rodale Institute

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/09/16

Join Chris in this week’s episode as he delves into the world of organic integrity with Jeff Tkach, CEO of the Rodale Institute. Jeff shares his personal journey in the organic space—from overcoming childhood health challenges to becoming the leader of the Rodale Institute, a pioneer in regenerative organic agriculture since 1947. Learn more about the importance of consumer education, the role retailers play in advocating for organic integrity, and the work Rodale is doing to build more sustainable

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22:39

Farming the Future with CCOF

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/09/09

This episode is brought to you by Solaray.In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Angela chats with Shawna Rodgers, Donor Relations Manager for the CCOF Foundation.Shawna shares her own personal journey with food as medicine, the evolution of the CCOF Foundation, and the critical role of organic farming in shaping a more ethical and sustainable food system. Learn more about the challenges new farmers face and the innovative programs CCOF has launched to support the next generation of organic food

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24:54

From Roots to Regeneration: Celebrating Organic Month...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/09/02

This episode is brought to you by Rishi Tea.In this episode of The Buyer’s Desk, Chris, Angela, and Jim dive into the dynamic world of organic. Discover how consumer demand is driving innovation, the rise of organic options in kid-focused categories, and the role of private labels in expanding organic accessibility. Plus, learn more about how INFRA Retailers are leading the charge in the natural channel, with an impressive 11% growth in organic product sales year-over-year.Next week, we’re

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35:47

Longevity and Leadership with Cornucopia Natural Foods

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/08/26

This episode is brought to you by Rishi Tea.In this episode of The Buyers Desk, we’re bringing you a fascinating re-run from our member-driven podcast – Common Roots! INFRA Board Member Drew Alexander shares his own leadership journey from dishwasher to store owner of Cornucopia Natural Foods in Sayville, NY. The conversation also explores the strategies he uses to support employee longevity and how Cornucopia upholds its commitment to rigorous product standards.Next week, we are excited to start

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39:22

The All One Approach to Leadership with Dr. Bronner's

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/08/19

In this episode of "The Buyer's Desk," hosts Chris Sorensen and Angela Bozo dive into a refreshing take on leadership with David Bronner, the Cosmic Engagement Officer of Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps. From capping executive salaries and ensuring ethical sourcing to launching initiatives like the Purpose Pledge, David leads with humility, collaboration, and a clear vision for a better world. His leadership sets new standards in zero waste, climate action, and ethical employment, all while keeping doing

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34:59

How to Be a Courageous, Intentional Leader with Plucky

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/08/12

This episode is brought to you by Mezcla.This week, we take our leadership focus to a new level as Chris talks to Jen Dary from Plucky, a leadership coaching firm, about the complexities of being a leader. Jen shares real-world insights on what it means to lead with intention, how to manage with empathy, and why connection, not control, is the secret of strong leadership. Whether you're a store manager, team lead, or just getting your leadership footing, this episode is packed with practical tools

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38:27

Redefining Grocery Leadership with Michele Lamppa

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/08/05

This week, we’re kicking off our month-long focus on leadership with a thoughtful conversation featuring Michele Lamppa, INFRA’s Director of People and Culture. Together, we explore why leadership is more than a role; it is a force that shapes company culture, drives change, and connects people. Michele shares insights on the power of diverse leadership styles and how, when grounded in shared values, they can strengthen teams and create meaningful impact across the grocery industry.Next week, join

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28:31

Embracing Integrity with Just Ice Tea

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/07/29

To wrap up our celebration month of independents month, we’re joined by Seth Goldman, Co-Founder of Just Ice Tea (previously Honest Tea), for a conversation about what it means to build a business rooted in justice, purpose, and integrity. From the fast-moving launch of Just Ice Tea to the challenges of growing a mission-driven brand, Seth shares what it takes to stay independent - and why that independence matters now more than ever. He also reflects on the vital role INFRA has played in their

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25:55

From Corporate to Community: Coleen Noel’s Journey to...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/07/22

This episode is brought to you by Bachan's. This week, we sit down with Coleen Noel, INFRA’s newest board member and the owner of Diane’s Natural Market and Sunflower Health Foods in FL, to hear about her journey from corporate life into the heart of the natural foods industry! In this inspiring episode, Coleen shares what drew her to becoming a business owner and touches on the unique value that independents bring to customers and communities.Next week, to round out our “independent” theme, we’re

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37:14

Independence in Every Bite with Grandy Organics

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/07/15

This week, we’re spotlighting Grandy Organics — a brand that’s stayed fiercely independent since day one. Owner and Chief Granola Officer Aaron Anker joins us to share what it takes to stay true to your values in a competitive industry, and how Grandy’s commitment to authenticity, organics, and sustainability continues to drive their success. From solar-powered production to clean ingredients, this is a story of purpose in every bite.Next week, Angela sits down with Coleen Noel, newly elected INFRA

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30:47

Organic, Independent, and Informed with The...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/07/08

This episode is brought to you by Yogi Tea.This week, we’re continuing our celebration of independents by chatting with Michele Marchetti, Deputy Director of The Cornucopia Institute. As a non-profit consumer education and watchdog organization, The Cornucopia Institute helps consumers understand the value of shopping independent and organic. Join us for a deep dive into their Independent Organic Brand List – a tool that makes it easier for retailers to help their consumers make informed choices

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27:02

Celebrating Independent Innovation with SPINS

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/07/01

We’re kicking off July with a theme that’s close to our hearts: independents. Join Chris, Angela, and Jim as they explore what it means to be independent in today’s grocery landscape, from the relentless innovation of independent brands to the growing pressure of mergers and acquisitions on natural food retailers striving to maintain their product standards.Next week, we’ll be joined by the Cornucopia Institute to discuss their Independent Organic Brand List; a powerful resource designed to help

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29:30

Practical Strategies for Merchandising Success with...

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/06/24

This episode is brought to you by Nixie.In this episode, Chris and Angela chat about all things merchandising with Mark Rodriguez, Director of Grocery at Frazier Farms Market in California. With over 20 years of grocery experience, learn how Mark turns his critical eye for merchandising into practical, in-store wins. Tune in as he breaks down his personal philosophy on merchandising, reveals tips for building a compelling local product set, and explains why data is key to measuring success and

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28:50

Merchandising Roundtable: Displays that Deliver

The Buyer"s Desk ·

2025/06/17

In this episode, Chris dives into effective merchandising techniques in a roundtable discussion with Promotions & Merchandising Advisory Specialists Rachel Keeler and Braden Flores. Learn how to up your merchandising game by simplifying your displays and using themes to enhance customer engagement.If you’re interested in learning more from the experts, be sure to attend our session at the INFRA Annual Conference – Core Principles of Effective Merchandising!

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