In this special episode of Crave – The IFDA Podcast, host Julien LeBlanc sits down with industry leaders to share a major announcement from IFDA and unpack how collaboration, networking, and cross-functional leadership can transform organizations across foodservice distribution.

Guests Angie Dark and Aaron Kerkhoff discuss why bringing sales, operations, marketing, transportation, and leadership together in one room in San Antonio can break down silos, spark innovation, and create powerful “aha” moments that drive measurable business growth.

From mentorship stories and customer experience strategies inspired by brands like Disney and Chick-fil-A, to practical examples of ideas implemented after conferences, this episode highlights why investing in people, learning, and industry community is one of the fastest ways to accelerate results and retention.

Whether you’re a distributor, operator, manufacturer, or emerging leader, this conversation will help you rethink collaboration, leadership development, and the true power of industry connection.

Topics Covered

👉 The big IFDA conference announcement
👉 Breaking down silos between departments
👉 Why cross-functional collaboration multiplies results
👉 How conferences create real business wins
👉 Mentorship and networking that accelerate careers
👉 Retaining employees through professional development
👉 Customer experience strategies that build loyalty
👉 Generational communication in today’s workforce
👉 Turning insights into actionable business changes

Timestamps

00:00 Special Announcement + Guest Introductions
01:34 Why People Love the Foodservice Industry
04:17 Major IFDA Conference Reveal
05:23 Breaking Down Organizational Silos
08:22 Networking That Drives Growth
10:48 Turning Insights Into Strategy
12:07 Mentorship Stories That Changed Careers
15:47 Real Examples of Ideas Implemented
17:55 Generational Communication Insights
19:10 Leadership Perspective Shifts
21:12 Why Investing in Learning Matters
22:12 Retention Through Employee Development

Learn more about Crave – The IFDA Podcast and future episodes: https://ifdaonline.org/crave-podcast/