Connecting, Innovating, and Empowering: A Conversation with Karen Caplan on the Power of Leading, Data and Networking

Biosketch? Karen Caplan is an accomplished business leader with over 40 years of experience in the produce industry. As the former CEO/President of one of the first woman-owned and woman-managed produce companies in the US, she pioneered the introduction of exotic fruits and vegetables to American consumers. Under her leadership, the company grew into a well-known and respected force within the produce industry. In addition to her business acumen, Karen is a passionate advocate for women in leadership. She founded?Women in Produce to provide a platform for women to support each other and excel in a traditionally male-dominated industry. After selling the family business in 2023, Karen transitioned into executive coaching, where she continues to inspire and mentor emerging leaders.

Introduction In Fall 2016, I was teaching a freshman advising seminar and invited guest lecturers with UCR connections to share their personal stories and inspire the new students about science.? At the time, Karen was CEO of Frieda’s Inc.? To the class, she brought fresh produce and tossed one to students when they answered her questions.? It was a teaching lesson for me – reaching students with intensity and levity.

A Legacy of Leadership? Karen was born into an entrepreneurial family.? Her mother, Frieda Rapoport Caplan (aka the Kiwi Queen), launched a wholesale produce business shortly after Karen was born. Karen admired her mother's work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. Yet despite feeling frustrated sometimes that her mom wasn’t like other moms, Karen eventually embraced her mother's path, joining the company right after graduating from college.? Karen's leadership quickly became evident; by the age of 30, she convinced her mom to make her president of the company. Only a few years later, Karen and her sister bought the company, which then became one of the best-known produce businesses in the US.

Innovating in Produce? Karen’s innovation wasn't only about introducing new produce, it was about creating new ways of thinking in the produce industry. Under her leadership, the company introduced over 200 exotic fruits and vegetables to American consumers, such as purple sweet potatoes. Her commitment to innovation also extended to product packaging; her company was one of the first to incorporate color in their packaging (i.e., a brand) for produce and to use individual stickers on fruits and vegetables.? You know the little stickers on each apple at the grocery store?? That’s one of those “of course!” innovations that helped the company improve the consumer experience using data-driven strategies.

The Role of Data in Business Success? During her tenure at the company, Karen recognized the importance of using data not just for inventory management but also for selling produce. "Selling with data became a key part of our approach. I remember telling a customer like Costco, 'We’re not just a produce company—we’re a data company,'" Karen shared. Really?? A data-driven approach to selling vegetables?? Yes, really.? Her focus on data helped the company maintain strong customer relationships and adjust quickly to changes, such as the COVID-19 pandemic impact on the supply chain and work-from-home shift.

Empowering the Next Generation of Women? Karen has also made significant contributions to the industry by founding?Women in Produce. ?She saw a need for women in the produce industry to network and mentor each other. What started as a reception at a trade meeting, has now grown into an annual invitation-only gathering of hundreds of women.? As Karen transitioned from running the family business to becoming an executive coach, she recognized the challenges women face in leadership, especially in industries that have historically been dominated by men and is optimistic.? "For me, it’s not about pushing women into leadership roles. It’s about creating a space where they can see women who look like them…I know what it’s like to be the only woman in the room. When you see women who’ve made it to the top, it becomes possible for others to follow," Karen emphasized.

Conclusion? For Karen, CEOs don’t just make business decisions, they make people decisions.? "As leaders, we have a responsibility to not just push our companies forward but to also build a culture that values connection and inclusivity. The true power of leadership is helping others succeed," Karen said.? Her message?? Success is how you connect with and support others, a characteristic that she admires in another famous business leader, Taylor Swift.