43. Veronica Blanco - Director of Human Resources at Innovative Produce, leadership, growth, and the power of community

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Veronica Blanco, Director of Human Resources, from Innovative Produce to talk about growth, leadership, and the power of community in the ag industry. From being the first in her family to graduate college to stepping into leadership roles, Veronica reflects on the importance of mentorship, staying positive, and telling the real story of agriculture. She opens up about the challenges of stepping outside her comfort zone and the value of connecting with like-minded professionals through industry forums and programs. She also talks about how organizations like United Ag, programs like the Ambassador Program, and the supportive culture at Innovative Produce have allowed her to explore critical issues like access to care, mental health, and employee wellbeing — all while developing as a leader.

Veronica opens up about the powerful role models in her life, beginning with her mother, whose positivity, work ethic, and belief in education laid the foundation for Veronica’s success. She also speaks deeply about the impact of colleagues like Amy Wolfe, who have offered not only support but also constructive challenge — helping her shift perspectives, make hard decisions, and grow stronger in the face of transition.

These relationships have built a sense of purpose and belonging, and Veronica has been intentional about passing on what she’s learned. She reflects on the responsibility to share ag’s story more clearly, especially the good that often goes unseen. Whether working behind the scenes or stepping up to public-facing roles, Veronica emphasizes the importance of staying positive, focusing on what’s within your control, and surrounding yourself with people who believe in doing good work for good people.

Whether you're in ag or any other industry, this conversation is a reminder that great people and strong values can shape your path in powerful ways.

Innovative Produce: https://innovativeproduce.com/

Kirti Mutatkar, President and CEO of UnitedAg. 

Reach me at [email protected], www.linkedin.com/in/kirtimutatkar
UnitedAg website - www.unitedag.org

UnitedAg Health and Wellness Centers - https://www.unitedag.org/health-benefits/united-agricultural-benefit-trust/health-centers/

Episode Contributors - Veronica Blanco, Kirti Mutatkar, Dave Visaya, Rhianna Macias

The episode is also sponsored by Brent Eastman Insurance Services Inc. - https://brenteastman.com

Blue Shield of California - https://www.blueshieldca.com

Elite Medical - https://www.elitecorpmed.com

Gallagher - https://www.ajg.com/

SAIN Medical https://sainmedical.com/

MDI Network - https://www.mdinetworx.com/about-us