In our corner of the world here in Northern California, Raley’s Family of Fine Stores is synonymous with quality, creativity, variety, and flavor. From dynamic fresh produce departments to an ever-changing vision to keep the Raley’s, Nob Hill Stores, and Bel Air formats modern and innovative, the team seeks to impress and invigorate the way food ends up on the table. One ambassador executing that enormous responsibility is Michael Schutt, Director of Produce and Floral. With 35 years at the company, Michael has used his creativity and passion to help elevate the fruit and vegetable plate. But, there is more to Michael than meets the eye, and these IFs help us pull back the curtain on our friend and fellow Sacramentan…
IF you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Pursue happiness over financial gain, it will serve you well.
IF you could make everyone watch a movie of your choosing, which movie would you want them to see?
Wild. So many things can be put into perspective by putting your boots on the trail.
IF you could be a character in any book, who would you be?
Tom Sawyer. Life should be an adventure!
IF you could imagine yourself in a different industry, what would it be?
I can’t! I interviewed with this company when I was 15 years old, and so many relationships—personal and professional—have been forged. But, if I had to, I’d be a camp host somewhere beautiful where I could help others appreciate the outdoors like I do.
IF you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
My grandparents—hands down. My grandfather had a tremendous work ethic, from a pilot in the Navy and rancher to finishing his work career with the state. He married my grandmother (who had four kids) and they had two of their own. That alone should have earned him a medal in that era. My grandmother was creative, from oil painting to pottery, and together they provided a shining example of many things, and, without exception, proved that opposites attract.
IF you had to wear the same thing every day, what items of clothing would you pick?
Jeans, flip flops, a T-shirt (likely of a brewery), and a good watch.
IF you had to eat the same thing every day for the rest of your days, what would you eat?
Naan bread, cheese, basil, tomatoes—and throw in some good olive oil.
IF you could enhance one aspect of your intelligence, what part would you want to improve?
I am constantly working on my emotional intelligence. When leading a team, that consists of patience.
IF you could reexperience an awesome day in your life, what would you choose and why?
The day my daughter came into the world 16 years ago. She is my favorite thing on the planet, and she stamped my card to the most exclusive club ever: fatherhood.
IF you had to choose one song to be the soundtrack of your fall season, what would it be?
“California Dreamin’” by The Mamas and The Papas.
