Transforming the Produce Industry | The Entrepreneurial Journey

Karen Caplan's family has created long-lasting trends in the produce and grocery industries that continue to this day. Karen is the former owner and CEO of Frieda's Branded Produce, a company that quite literally changed how America eats. Built on the vision of her mother, Frieda Caplan, the business introduced more than 200 fruits and vegetables to the U.S. market, including kiwifruit, spaghetti squash, sugar snap peas, dragon fruit, and purple sweet potatoes. In this episode, Dave sits down with Karen to unpack a remarkable entrepreneurial journey rooted in family, courage, and conviction. Karen shares what it was like growing up inside a family business, working alongside her sister, earning her leadership seat, and eventually buying the company from her mother. She opens up about the realities of running a family enterprise, navigating generational transitions, and making the difficult decision to sell the business after more than three decades. They also explore Karen’s evolution after exit, her move into executive coaching, and why experience, perspective, and passion matter more than theory when guiding leaders. This conversation is about legacy, leadership, and knowing when to hold on and when to let go. Can't wait for you to join us this Tuesday morning!