C
ole Mucci is the perfect blend of an old soul and a modern mind. This is the sentiment I took with me after recently reading through the industry up-and-comer’s fascinating IF List. As the next generation in Mucci Farms’ legacy, Cole has his feet firmly planted in the ever-evolving greenhouse produce industry. And with a passion to rival as well. As we make our way through these first months of 2024, I can’t help but feel like many of his IFs are just reality in the making...
IF you could have been born in another century or decade, which would it be and why?
I would choose the ’80s. I think there were fewer distractions back then. Today is all about instant gratification, so we’re constantly moving onto the next thing without taking the time to enjoy the present.
IF you had to choose now, what would your last meal consist of?
That’s an easy one. My Nonna’s pasta, made with Mucci Cherto™ Tomatoes.
IF you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Elon Musk because he dreams big and is obsessed with the future. I’d love to pick his brain.
IF you were stranded on a desert island, what three items would you bring?
As a grower, just give me some vegetable seeds, LED lights, and diffused glass!
IF you could redo one moment or event in your life, which one would you choose and why?
I’d love to go visit my late Nonno in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, again. It’s a trip I always looked forward to.
IF you were another species in the animal kingdom, what would you be?
An elephant, because of their steel-trap memories that never forget a face. I meet so many people that I sometimes forget faces!
IF you had to wear the same thing every day, what items of clothing would you pick?
Black jeans, comfy Nike’s, and a Mucci Farms vest.
IF you could have any actor play you in a movie, who would you want?
Mark Wahlberg. He can do so many different kinds of roles, which is important in my line of work.
IF you had to eat the same thing every day for the rest of your days, what would you eat?
This is a layup. Mucci Farms veggies, of course!
IF you could join a musician, dead or alive, on stage to sing along or play an instrument with, who would you choose and why?
Jimmy Buffett, because “It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere.”
IF you could re-experience an awesome day in your life, what day would you choose and why?
The first day I visited my grandparents’ hometown in Italy—it gave me a real sense of my family history.
IF you had $10 million that you had to donate to someone else, who would you choose and why?
I can’t choose one person, but I’d like to give that money to the Make-a-Wish Foundation to grant a special last wish to as many kids as possible.
IF you had to choose one song to be the soundtrack of your year, what would it be?
“Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, because of the Rocky movies. They tell a great story about overcoming the odds.
IF you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Mistakes are okay.
IF you could invent anything, what would you invent?
A cure for all forms of cancer.
