Gooder named one of Fantastic 40

CRESCO - Some may think that being the owner’s kid gives him a free ride. That can’t be further from the truth when it comes to John Gooder.

He had to prove himself by slowly taking on responsibilities at Plantpeddler at which he excelled. He earned the respect of his coworkers, his parents (Mike and Rachel Gooder) and those whom he supervises.

For being a strong leader, Gooder was recently named one of the up-and-comers in the horticulture industry. He was listed in the “Greenhouse Product News” magazine’s 11th annual “Forty under 40” program.

The Fantastic 40 are trailblazers in their personal and professional lives. They demonstrate superior leadership, creativity, compassion and innovative thinking.

Gooder is the Chief Operating Officer of Plantpeddler. After graduating from Iowa State University (his parents’ alma mater), he returned to the family business and worked with the sales team, production and shipping to streamline and improve the ordering, pulling and shipping processes.

According to his bio in the GPN article, he worked with multiple companies and team members to expand operations and build a 100,000 square foot greenhouse and production facility that operates at optimal output, along with updating and improving existing facilities to improve overall efficiency.

The winners are recognized for their work in all elements of the greenhouse — sales, vendors, retail, breeders and growing.

“Being named to the 40 under 40 program came as a shock to me,” said John. “When you work hard, it is nice to be recognized.”

He and the others named were given their awards at a ceremony in Columbus, Ohio at the National Horticulture Convention.

Mike said, “Most of the time, people get recognized at the end of their career, when they are retiring. It’s nice to recognize young people at the start of their careers. And you have to thank your employees for their hard work.”

He added, John was the second 40 under 40 to be recognized from Plantpeddler. About eight years ago, Jason Sbiral was honored.

Mike was also happy to see several of the young people from other companies that Plantpeddler collaberates with get awards as well.