When it comes to creating a thriving workplace culture, sometimes all it takes is a banana—or at least, that’s part of the magic according to Erin Mittelstaedt, CEO of The FruitGuys. In a recent conversation for The Rundown with Ramon, Erin shared heartfelt and practical insights on why appreciation in the workplace matters more than ever, especially in today’s evolving business climate.

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From a Box of Fruit to a Culture of Care

Founded over 27 years ago by her brother, The FruitGuys started with a simple mission: deliver fresh, seasonal fruit to offices. Today, the company is a national operation with 11 shipping hubs, serving offices, schools, and homes across the U.S. But as Erin emphasized, they’re not just in the fruit delivery business—they’re in the business of creating joy and connection.

“We work with local farmers whenever we can, and hand-select the best of the season,” she shared. The most popular item? Bananas. But not just any banana—FruitGuys deliver the perfect balance of yellow with green tips, aiming to satisfy everyone’s preference.

Why Employee Appreciation Should Never Be Optional

While sending fruit is their business, Erin is passionate about the deeper message it conveys—appreciation. “We’ve seen a shift since COVID,” she explained. “Companies are realizing that when employees feel happy and satisfied, they’re better team members.”

The challenge many leaders face, however, is balancing that care with the financial realities of running a business. Erin’s take? “You have to be realistic, but some things—like respect, flexibility, and being heard—don’t cost much. They just require intention.”

And in many cases, she believes, appreciation outweighs compensation. “People don’t always leave because of money,” she said. “They leave because they don’t feel seen or supported.”

The FruitGuys’ Mission: Nourish with Purpose

Erin’s team isn’t just driven by profits. They operate as a certified B Corp and have a fiscal nonprofit arm that supports small farms and donates excess produce to local shelters and food banks. Their mission? Feed people in need and back sustainable agriculture.

“Our clients help us do good,” she said. “There’s no mission without margin. A successful business enables us to support others.”

Simple Acts, Big Impact

So how does The FruitGuys show appreciation internally? Erin shared some thoughtful, budget-friendly examples:

• Handwritten Notes: Each employee received a personal thank-you note for Employee Appreciation Month.
• Shared Time Off: Teams took half-days off together to truly disconnect.
• Virtual Team Building: A recent “Fruit Family Feud” game brought laughter and connection to remote staff.
• Public Recognition: Erin emphasized the power of acknowledging great work in front of others—whether that’s in a Zoom room or on a stage.

“It’s not about the scale of the gift,” she said. “It’s about sincerity and making sure your actions align with your culture.”

A Leadership Lesson That Sticks

Toward the end of our conversation, I shared a personal story—how a simple gesture from a boss who told me “I appreciate you” left an unforgettable mark. Erin nodded in agreement, underscoring that the most powerful appreciation is always genuine.

“If the work culture is toxic, no amount of thank-yous or free snacks can fix it,” she said. “But when the foundation is healthy, those acts of kindness go a long way.”

Final Word: Start With Sincerity

Erin Mittelstaedt offers a masterclass in leadership through care. Whether you’re running a five-person startup or a Fortune 500 firm, the takeaway is clear: don’t underestimate the value of appreciation. A box of fruit might be a good place to start—but a culture of care is what makes people stay.

To learn more about The FruitGuys and how they support health and happiness at work, visit fruitguys.com.

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