To say Mike Preacher is a breath of fresh air is an understatement. In actuality, he’s a massive gust of fun that almost knocks you off your feet laughing, leaving you smiling from ear to ear. But don’t mistake his lightheartedness for a lack of prowess, because this marketing whiz knows the biz and is sharing some of his insights, inspiration, and advice, so we can better understand how his sales mind works. And, of course, he’s doing it with flair…
Vice President of Marketing,
Superfresh Growers®
“Our job is to encourage people to eat our fruit. To that end, I strive to be a mash-up of Ted Lasso and Julie McCoy from The Love Boat. Cruise Director Julie is all about customer service, punctuality, organization, and responsibility. Ted is competitive. He understands that success requires teamwork, optimism, collaboration, and honesty. He plays people to their strengths, challenges them to take chances, celebrates successes, and eases losses. A team that thinks like Julie and Ted—and injects some quirkiness and humor along the way—will sell fruit!”
A.B. Preacher, Jr.: a.k.a. Pops
Tim Lane: President, Sales and Marketing, Superfresh Growers®
Rachel Ruggeri: Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Starbucks Coffee Company
“Since elementary school, I have been able to stand on my head longer than anyone in the room. Try me on the show floor!”
“Listen more than you speak; don’t fear the pregnant pause. Join your local non-profit Toastmasters Club. Practice; get to know your mirror. Never stop learning; ask questions. Show interest; what are your customers’ favorite things?”
“Many things necessary to marketing fruit are also important to nurturing meaningful relationships with family, friends, and coworkers: listening, negotiation, argument, concession, patience, resilience, and empathy. I am not perfect at these things, but I’m fortunate to practice them daily.” 
