Voices of the Valley

This episode of Voices of the Valley takes a closer look at an often-overlooked part of the food system: food loss on the farm.Join Western Growers' Jeana Cadby as she sits down with Leigh Prezkop of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to learn more about why perfectly edible produce may be left in the field, from market signals and buyer specifications to the economic realities that influence what gets harvested. Together, they discuss the difference between food loss and food waste, how food loss varies across crops and the solutions being developed to better utilize the harvest. They also explore WWF's Global Farm Loss Tool, efforts to create new markets for imperfect produce and how consumers can play a role in reducing food waste.As Leigh explains throughout the episode, addressing food loss requires looking beyond the farm and considering the entire supply chain.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, we're peeling back the layers on one of the most familiar ingredients in our kitchens: onions. Jessica Peri Dunham, Sales Manager at Peri & Sons Farms and a fourth-generation farmer, takes us behind the scenes of how onions are grown, harvested, cured and brought to grocery store shelves. She also shares her family's journey in agriculture, the evolution of farming and why some time-tested practices are still essential to producing a quality onion. Along the way, we'll uncover surprising facts about different onion varieties and how to choose the right onion for your next meal.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, Western Growers' Taylor Lauson sits down with Michelle Paul, Executive Director of the California Farm Water Coalition, to break down one of the most important and misunderstood topics in agriculture: water. From where California's water comes from and how it reaches farms to the technologies helping growers use it more efficiently, Michelle explains the complex systems that keep fresh food on our tables. Together, they discuss common misconceptions about agricultural water use, the challenges of managing water in the West and why reliable water infrastructure is essential to the future of farming and our food supply.As Michelle reminds listeners throughout the episode, "Food grows where water flows."

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, Western Growers' Jeana Cadby sits down with USDA research entomologist Dr. Daniel Hasegawa to explore the surprising role insects play in agriculture. From beneficial pollinators and parasitoid wasps to destructive pests and insect-borne crop diseases, Dr. Hasegawa breaks down how insects shape the food we grow and eat every day, and the cutting-edge research helping farmers protect crops while supporting healthy ecosystems.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, we explore the future of regenerative agriculture through the lens of stewardship, conservation and long-term resilience. Hosted by Western Growers’ Jeana Cadby, the conversation features Craig McNamara, founder of Sierra Orchards, who shares his decades-long journey in farming and his vision for farming for the next 100 years.From integrating sheep into orchard systems and restoring Chinook salmon habitat to investing in farmworker well-being and the next generation of farmers, McNamara shares how regenerative agriculture can support both the land and the people who depend on it. The conversation also explores water conservation, biodiversity and the importance of long-term stewardship in California agriculture.

This episode of Voices of the Valley highlights the voices and experiences of women shaping the future of agriculture. Hosted by Western Growers’ Michelle Rivera and Cierra Allen, the conversation features Briana Giampaoli of Live Oak Farms and Kristen Camarena of Bonipak, who share their career journeys, challenges and perspectives on leadership in the industry. In recognition of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer, the episode underscores the vital role women continue to play across all facets of farming and the importance of supporting the next generation of leaders in agriculture.

In this episode of Voices of the Valley, we sit down with Jacie Johnston and Zac Green of Johnston Farms and WN Citrus, afourth-generation family operation nestled at the base of the Tehachapi Mountains. What began nearly 80 years ago with a single potato crop has grown into a diverse farm producing citrus, potatoes, peppers, carrots and more across thousands of acres.Jacie and Zac share their agriculture journey, from Jaciereturning to her family’s farm after working in the Bay Area to Zac leaving a successful San Francisco coffee business to join the operation. Together, they reflect on the challenges and rewards of farming in California, the realities behind common agriculture myths and what it means to carry forward a multigeneration legacy.

On the latest episode of Voices of the Valley, Western Growers hangs out with Cannon Michael, President and CEO of Bowles Farming Company, and the sixth generation to run his family’s farm. Cannon takes us behind the scenes of a truly unique operation that grows everything from tomatoes and melons to pistachios and cotton, while also caring for thousands of acres of wildlife habitat. Cannon also discusses the importance of water to California agriculture, his work on regional waterboards and how Bowles Farming is investing in sustainability and leadership to shape the future of farming.

In this episode, we sit down with Grant and Elizabeth Talley — fourth-generation farmers from one of California’s most respected agricultural families. From vineyards to vegetable fields to grass-fed beef, the Talley's are carrying forward a legacy that began in 1948 in the Arroyo Grande Valley. Hear how they’re honoring family traditions, embracing innovation and educating the next generation — all while growing the food and wine that nourish California and beyond. This episode offers a heartfelt look into the life of a modern farming family.

Nestled in the heart of Irvine, Calif., Tanaka Farms is morethan just a working farm—it’s a living story of resilience, tradition and community. In this episode of Voices of the Valley, Western Growers’ Cory Lunde talks to fourth-generation farmer Kenny Tanaka. Join us as we dig into thefarm’s rich history, the vibrant “you-pick” experiences that let visitors harvest their own strawberries, pumpkins and more, and the many educational programs that bring kids and families closer to where their food comes from.