The AGA Podcast

Episode 14 – Elizabeth Ripperdan with Publix

In this episode of the AGA Podcast, Paul DeMarco sits down with Elizabeth Ripperdan of Publix, Alabama’s Best Bagger. Elizabeth shares how she got started in the grocery industry, winning the Alabama Grocers Association Best Bagger Competition, and representing Alabama at the National Championship in Las Vegas — where she placed fifth in the nation. Hear how practice, precision, and customer focus helped her succeed and why great bagging makes a difference in the grocery experience.

Episode 13 - Grace Graffeo with Children's Hospital

In this episode of the Alabama Grocers Association Podcast, Paul DeMarco sits down with Grace Graffeo from Children’s of Alabama at the Alabama’s Best Luncheon to discuss the powerful partnership between Children’s Hospital and the Buy Alabama’s Best program. Grace shares how the campaign—now celebrating more than 20 years—has raised over $900,000 to support children and families facing cancer and blood disorders across all 67 counties of Alabama. The conversation highlights how these funds directly support patient assistance, research, and medical team training at the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders. As the spring campaign kicks off, listeners are encouraged to look for the Children’s icons and Buy Alabama’s Best products at their local grocery store and join in supporting this meaningful cause that keeps dollars—and impact—right here in Alabama.

Episode 12 - Ellie Taylor and Patrick McWhorter

Paul DeMarco, Ellie Taylor, and Pat McWhorter look back at key legislative, political, and industry issues from 2025 and discuss what lies ahead for Alabama’s grocery industry in 2026. Topics include grocery tax efforts, the impact of the federal government shutdown on SNAP benefits, rising grocery prices, and a major election year in Alabama. The episode also highlights upcoming AGA events and priorities for the year ahead.

Episode 11 - SNAP and the Federal Government Shutdown

In this special episode, Ellie Taylor, President and CEO of the Alabama Grocers Association, talks about how the government shutdown is affecting SNAP and what it means for grocers and participants. She explains why this is happening, what needs to be done to restore funding, and shares key information and resources to help those impacted. Tune in for a quick, clear update on what you need to know right now.

Episode 10 - Reflections with Immediate Past Chairman Bob Crawford

In this special episode recorded live at the AGEF Clay Shoot, Immediate Past Chairman Bob Crawford reflects on his impactful tenure leading the Alabama Grocers Association (AGA). Having recently passed the gavel to new Chairman Wade Payne, Bob shares his thoughts on the future of Alabama’s grocery industry and the vital role the AGA continues to play in supporting its members. Between rounds of sporting clays and the smell of great food on the grill, Bob and his team from United Distributors of Alabama took time out from cooking for all the participants to talk about the importance of fellowship, giving back, and supporting the next generation of industry professionals through the Alabama Grocers Education Foundation (AGEF). He also highlights the AGA’s ongoing efforts to cut the state grocery tax and its dedication to raising over $1.5 million in scholarships — all efforts that strengthen the industry and those who make it thrive. Join us for an episode full of gratitude, camaraderie, and reflection on what makes the AGA family so special.