CropTalk

Follow CropTalk
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

CropTalk is a podcast dedicated to helping today’s agricultural business leaders find the foundational values that lead to success. Whether you’re looking to learn from industry experts who have transformed their organizations, discover how a value-first mentality can improve your business, or simp…

Charlie McKenzie


    • Jan 21, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 36m AVG DURATION
    • 243 EPISODES
    • 2 SEASONS

    4.7 from 34 ratings Listeners of CropTalk that love the show mention: agricultural, production team, crop, agriculture, charlie, growing, involved, tune, industry, engaging, business, informative, show, great, listen.


    Ivy Insights

    The CropTalk podcast is a must-listen for anyone involved or interested in the agriculture industry. Hosted by the engaging and knowledgeable Charlie, this podcast fills a much-needed niche by providing deep dives into various topics related to growing crops and the business of agriculture. Whether you're a grower, farmer, entrepreneur, or simply curious about how crops are grown, every episode of CropTalk offers valuable insights and information.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is Charlie's expertise and passion for the subject matter. He brings a wealth of knowledge to each episode and is able to engage his guests in candid and interesting conversations. The content is not only informative but also entertaining, making it enjoyable to listen to. Charlie's ability to connect with his audience and provide relevant and valuable information across platforms is commendable.

    Another great aspect of CropTalk is its unique focus on the intersection of agriculture and business. This podcast goes beyond just discussing the techniques of growing crops; it delves into the business side of agriculture as well. This makes it particularly valuable for entrepreneurs or those looking to get involved in the industry.

    In terms of drawbacks, there are very few negative aspects to mention about CropTalk. Perhaps one minor issue could be that some episodes may not be as relevant or interesting to listeners who are not directly involved in agriculture. However, even for those with no background in farming, there is still plenty to learn and appreciate from each episode.

    In conclusion, CropTalk is an outstanding podcast that provides invaluable insights into the world of growing crops and the business side of agriculture. With an engaging host like Charlie and a diverse range of topics covered, this podcast is informative, entertaining, and highly recommended for anyone interested in this field. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, CropTalk has something for everyone.



    Search for episodes from CropTalk with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from CropTalk

    253. Transforming Data Integration and Ownership w. Adam Greenberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2025 41:46


    In this episode of CropTalk, we dive into the transformative role of AI and data in Controlled Environment Agriculture with Adam Greenberg, CEO of IUNU. Adam shares his expertise on how AI and machine vision are revolutionizing greenhouse operations, the importance of data integration, and why growers must prioritize data ownership to stay competitive. We explore the evolution of technology in CEA, the commoditization of AI, and what the future holds for innovation, from new data metrics to advances in crop registration. Plus, Adam shares his vision for 2025, including industry growth predictions, the rise of private equity, and the need for transparent, grower-first tech solutions.

    252. Supply Chain & Operational Excellence w. Nadav Regev

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 27, 2024 25:11


    Nadav Regev, Director of Business Operations at Eden Green Technology, joins us on this week's episode of CropTalk to explore the intricacies of supply chain management and operational excellence within Controlled Environment Agriculture. With his deep expertise, we dive into effective strategies for optimizing supply chains, the role of accurate forecasting in CEA operations, and how to streamline processes for peak efficiency. Nadav also shares his vision for the future of business operations in the industry and key insights on staying competitive in an evolving market.

    251. CEA Lettuce Food Safety Bootcamp w. Randall Sanderson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 37:41


    Randall Sanderson, Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance at Little Leaf Farms, joins us on this weeks episode of CropTalk to delve into all things related to food safety in Controlled Environment Agriculture. With a wealth of industry experience, we discuss key strategies for keeping your operation safe from pathogens and contaminants, best practices for ensuring high-quality produce, and Randall's insights on the future of the CEA industry.

    250! Mastering CEA Profitability in 2024 w. Charlie Hall

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2024 47:38


    CropTalk has made it to episode 250! In this week's special episode, guest host Adam Greenberg of IUNU navigates a compelling discussion with Charlie Hall, esteemed professor at Texas A&M in person at this year's Cultivate tradeshow. Topics include optimizing economic strategies, enhancing profitability, and the broader economics impacting CEA. Charlie shares his expert analysis, highlighting key factors that influence financial success in this growing industry and his forecasts for its future economic trends. Don't miss this deep dive into the financial landscape of CEA with two leading voices in the field!

    249. Insights and Strategies for Design and Build Efficiency w. Jeff Lair

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 12, 2024 24:12


    Jeff Lair, Director of Architecture and Engineering at DAG, joins us to discuss insights and strategies for achieving design and build efficiency in Controlled Environment Agriculture. We explore the importance of optimizing processes, balancing cost and operational efficiency, and Jeff offers expert perspectives and forecasts on the evolving landscape of the CEA market.

    245. Bridging the Gap between Horticulture and Hospitality w. Jack Maruna

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 33:47


    Jack Maruna, co-founder of Local Grow, joins us to discuss how his startup is helping restaurants and the hospitality industry embrace the benefits of growing their own local produce. In this episode, we explore the marketing advantages of on-site cultivation, hear insights on how to best speak “chef”, and delve into Jack's predictions for the future of Controlled Environment Agriculture.

    246. Mobile Robotics Automation in Indoor Farming w. Christopher Weis Thomasen

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2024 26:21


    Christopher Weis Thomasen is the CEO of Seasony. With an innovative use of the scissor lift, Christopher and his team are developing technology to help vertical farms adopt more mobile robotics. In this episode of CropTalk, Christopher and I discuss the potential benefits of utilizing mobile robotics for crop monitoring, the recent changes in the financial market for vertical farming, and his overall perspective on the vertical farming space.  

    ceo mobile weis indoor farming robotics automation croptalk
    245. A Social Impact Apporach to CEA w. Nona Yehia

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2024 38:56


    In the vertical farming industry, Nona Yehia stands as a beacon of innovation and social impact. As the Co-Founder and CEO of Vertical Harvest, she spearheads a mission-driven initiative to revolutionize agriculture through vertical farming. In this week's episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech we delve into the remarkable journey of Nona and her team, tracing their trajectory from the company's inception in 2008 to their current expansions in Maine and Michigan. Amidst the myriad challenges they've encountered, Nona shares invaluable insights into their strategies for overcoming obstacles and underscores the pivotal role of social impact in their endeavors. In a world where knowledge is ever-evolving, Nona's reminder that "you don't know what you don't know" resonates as sage advice for navigating the complexities of innovation and social responsibility.  

    244. The importance of Emotional Intelligence in Horticulture w. Paige Franks

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2024 38:12


    Paige Franks, a Senior Executive Search Advisor at BEST Human Capital & Advisory Group, is an expert on the power of Emotional Intelligence (EI). Recently, she published an insightful article on the crucial role of EI in the horticulture industry. In this weeks episode of CropTalk, Paige and I delve into the current recruitment challenges faced by the horticulture sector, offering practical guidance on how to attract and retain top talent. Additionally, Paige highlights the unique perspectives and ways of thinking that each generation brings to the table, providing valuable insights for industry leaders looking to build diverse and dynamic teams. If you're looking to optimize your hiring strategy and improve employee engagement in the horticulture industry, this weeks episode is for you.

    243. An Optimistic Approach to Vertical Farming w. Paul Gauthier

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2024 50:57


    Paul Gauthier is the Professor of Controlled Environment Agriculture at The University of Queensland in Australia. With a wealth of experience, including founding the Princeton Vertical Farming Project and contributing to Bowery Farming, Paul offers invaluable insights into the industry. Together, we delve into the crucial role of academic collaborations in driving innovative R&D, maintaining a balanced perspective on the possibilities of vertical farming, and making thoughtful predictions about the future landscape of CEA.

    242. Preventing Future Bankruptcies in CEA w. Adam Bergman

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 1, 2024 37:16


    Adam Begman, as the Global Head of AgTech Investment Banking at Citi, possesses unparalleled expertise in AgTech investment. With a proven track record and extensive experience, Adam delivers invaluable insights and pragmatic approaches to drive your business toward prosperity. Drawing from successful case studies in Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) and other cleantech sectors, Adam and I delve into essential advice for thriving in CEA, innovative financing solutions, the critical role of retail relationships, and navigating potential pitfalls to ensure sustainable growth. 

    241. Unlocking Success Through Transparency and Calibration w. Carl Gupton

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 15, 2024 28:34


    Carl Gupton, CEO of Greenswell Growers, a leafy greens producer nestled outside Richmond, Virginia, brings a refreshing blend of humility and transparency to the forefront of agricultural innovation. Join us on this episode of CropTalk as Carl shares invaluable lessons gleaned from his expanding operation, offering insightful strategies for success in Controlled Environment Agriculture. Together, Carl and I explore the pivotal importance of setting the right course, breaking down industry silos through genuine transparency, and fostering a culture of collaborative CEA teamwork. Tune in to gain actionable insights for navigating the path to excellence in modern farming.

    240. CEA Mastery and Industry Branding Challenges w. Melanie Yelton

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2024 28:00


    Melanie Yelton, the founder of Grow Big CEA Consultants, brings a wealth of expertise cultivated through her impactful roles at Lumigrow and Plenty, with a strong emphasis on Research and Plant Science. In this episode of CropTalk, Melanie and I delve into our shared dedication to advancing local produce, explore the transformative journey to mastering Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) through focused cultivar concentration, and contemplate the exciting prospects shaping the future landscape of CEA.  

    239. Maximizing Production Efficiency within CEA Leafy Greens w. Devon Robinson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2024 43:00


    Devon Robinson is a leafy greens consultant focused on production efficiency and operation excellence. From his experience working at Springworks farm and Little Leaf Farms, Devon is helping growers perfect their grow operations. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Devon and I discuss the importance of cross-training your departments to ensure clear channel communication and a quality company culture, the dangers of internal company siloing, and his predictions for the future of CEA. 

    238. Defining "Data" and preparing for the AI revolution in CEA w. Anthony Younan

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2023 23:59


    Anthony Younan is the vertical market head of Food & Beverage at Siemens. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech, Anthony and I delve into the critical role of data collection and its pivotal role in fueling AI and the evolution of CEA. With a strong emphasis on grower precision and the immense potential AI holds for the advancement of growing excellence, tune in to gain a deeper understanding of why data collection is paramount today for shaping a transformative tomorrow. 

    237. People, Plan and Plants w. Jim Pantaleo

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 7, 2023 47:49


    Jim Pantaleo is the Industry Ambassador for the AI Institute for Next Gen Food Systems. With extensive experience in CEA through roles at Urban Produce, Oasis Biotech and Indoor Ag Con, Jim has a plethora of experience to share with the industry. In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech, Jim and I delve into the crux of industry dynamics, emphasizing the pivotal role of Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) and unveiling Jim's Triple P Approach for success in CEA.  

    236. An Economics driven approach to CEA w. Daniel Plant

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 15, 2023 45:54


    In this episode of CropTalk #Kyletalksagtech, I chat with Daniel Plant, President of Plant Dynamics, an Economics-driven executive in Controlled Environment Agriculture. We explore his data-focused approach, discussing the importance of backing claims with clear data as Dan offers insights into the future of the industry, and the significance of 'following the puck' in agtech. Tune in as we dissect the nuances of CEA through a pragmatic lens, delving into the economic forces shaping its trajectory.  

    235. The End of CEA 1.0 w. Curt Meltzer

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 2, 2023 32:10


    Curt Meltzer, founder of Curt Meltzer CEA Consulting, is a distinguished professional with a remarkable journey. With a wealth of experience as the former CEO of Kentucky Fresh Harvest and a background as an attorney, Curt brings a diverse and experienced perspective to controlled environment agriculture. In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech, Curt and I delve into the dynamic evolution of CEA. We explore the risks associated with unsubstantiated claims and share our hopeful outlook for the future as we transition from CEA 1.0 to the transformative CEA 2.0 era.

    234. Energy Optimizing the CEA Industry w. Gretchen Schimelpfenig

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2023 44:00


    Gretchen Schimelpfenig is the Senior Energy Engineer at Energy Resources Integration, LLC and the Executive Director of GLASE. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgTech Gretchen and I discuss the importance of energy optimization, utilizing the available resources to maximize your efficiencies and some of the key strategies to overcome the collective industry data siloing occurring.

    233. Automating the Greenhouse Leafy Greens Industry w. Patrik Borenius

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 5, 2023 58:21


    Patrik Borenius is the CEO of Green Automation Americas. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTaksAgTech I speak with Patrik about the future of leafy greens greenhouse production, some of the challenges vertical farms are facing, and how we can best evolve in an ever-changing industry.   

    232. The Power of Patience in CEA w. Erin Livesey-Becks

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2023 36:33


    With a wealth of industry experience ranging from Gotham Greens to Vertical Future, Erin Livesey-Becks is dedicated to the future of CEA through her newly launched consultancy, Gist. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Erin and I have an honest conversation about how we can collectively improve by staying true to our promises, setting realistic expectation, and leaning on proven experts to guide us while maintaing an open mind and patient attiude. 

    231. Overcoming Challenges through Scale, Genetics & Teamwork w. Matt Lingard

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 7, 2023 36:42


    Matt Lingard is the Senior Vice President of Agriculture and Science at BrightFarms. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Matt about some of the key challenges CEA leafy green growers are experiencing, his strategies for overcoming obstacles, and how we are in the business of people as much as we are in the business of plants. 

    230. Distribution Mastery & Unifying CEA w. Craig Carlson

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 24, 2023 41:27


    Craig Carlson is the CEO of Carlson Produce Consulting, where he is supporting the growth of high-performance products and services within the fresh produce supply chain. Craig has had extensive experience working with giants such as Walmart and US Foods, now with a consultative focus on large scale CEA endeavors. In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Craig and I discuss the importance of mastering distribution in order for any CEA producer to win,  the importance of having a unified message that transcends all growers and resonates with consumers, along with what the future landscape of CEA may look like.

    229. Cultivar Trialing for Continuous Growth w. Stephanie Cruz

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2023 20:19


    Stephanie Cruz is the R&D Lead Crop Specialist at 80 Acres. From her initial aspirations of managing an independent organic farm to her newfound passion for data and technology, Stephanie is at the forefront of driving progress in maximizing value through her endeavors in experimenting with a diverse array of Cultivars. In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Stephanie and I discuss the value of cultivar selection and trialing how her journey through horticulture exemplifies the continuous cycle of learning and personal growth the CEA industry provides.

    228. USA Regional Development of CEA w. Andrew Brooks

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 27, 2023 44:15


    Andrew Brooks is the Business Development Manager for the Southeastern USA at Priva. A South Carolina native, Andrew is passionate about CEA and developing the southeast, one state at a time. In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Andrew and I discuss the separating factor that leads some states to be leading the CEA charge while others are slow to adopt, the collective challenges we face within horticulture and stigmas associated with the industry within conventional farmers, and how we can collectively do better by working together.   

    227. CEA Technology & Input validation through Research Institutes w. Elliott Kellner

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2023 45:29


    Elliott Kellner is the Director of Commercial Innovation at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Elliott about the viability of using research institutions to prove the value of your technology, fertilizer, or substrate. Topics include the development of seed genetics to further the indoor horticulture space, the changing culture of CEA, and what the future of the industry may look like. 

    director technology cea kellner research institutes donald danforth plant science center input validation
    226. Creating the most Efficient Vertical Farm w. Tyler Baras

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 15, 2023 50:19


    Tyler Baras is the Chief Science Officer and Co-Founder of Area 2 Farms, a CSA vertical farm serving the greater D.C metro area. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech. Tyler sheds light on the secrets behind his farm's exceptional efficiency, shares his insights on recent industry closures within the vertical farming realm, and offers his predictions for the future landscape of Controlled Environment Agriculture.  

    225. Developing Fully Integrated CEA Facilities w. Kris Nightengale

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2023 4:54


    In this episode of #KyleTalksAgtech, I have the pleasure of chatting with Kris Nightengale, the VP of Sales at AdeptAg. We delve into the captivating story behind the company's origins, where a group of seasoned players in the horticulture field came together. Kris sheds light on the hidden complexities of the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry, drawing a parallel to an iceberg with unexplored depths. We also gain his valuable insights and predictions regarding the future path of the industry.

    224. Giving CEA equipment a Second Life w. Chris Lange

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2023 18:12


    Chris Lange is the founder of Second Bloom Auctions, a platform that aims to provide used equipment from greenhouses and vertical farms to the CEA community. In this episode of CropTalk's #KyleTalksAgtech, we explore the inception of this platform and discuss how the sale of such equipment can contribute to the community's success and sustainability.

    223. PART 2: Developing Resilience in CEA w. Chris Cerveny

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2023 29:41


    Get ready for an inspiring episode of CropTalk, where I continue my conversation with Chris Cerveny about the power of personal and professional resilience. In part two, we explore how a life-altering experience such as a house fire can change our perspectives and the importance of living a value-driven existence. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be motivated to overcome any obstacles in your path.

    222. PART 1: Developing Resilience in CEA w. Chris Cerveny

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2023 39:05


    With a wealth of experience at some of the industry's most prominent companies, including Scott's and Hawthorne, as well as expertise in vertical farming through his work at Fifth Season, Chris Cerveny is a true master of his craft. In the first installment of a special two-part episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Chris to discuss the challenges facing the CEA vertical farming industry and how we can all learn from the mistakes of the past. We explored why some of the largest vertical farms have failed, and what we can do to avoid similar pitfalls in the future. Throughout our conversation, Chris emphasized the importance of professional resilience in this fast-paced and rapidly evolving industry. By embracing change and staying adaptable, he believes that we can all thrive and succeed in the face of any obstacle.

    221. Leveraging Conventional Agriculture Experience to Improve Controlled Environment Agriculture w. Everett Hendrixon

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2023 44:23


    The better we understand our current food system and how we got here, the better we can improve upon it, according to Everett Hendrixon of Tergo Consultants & Eco Supply. On this episode of CropTalk, Everett and I discuss the power of disruption through a nuanced understanding of the horticulture industry at various levels, Stories of conventional agriculture mistakes and lessons learned, and what the future CEA idustry may look like. 

    220. Bridging the Gap between Academia & Commercial Growers w. Karla Garcia

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2023 34:29


    Karla is working to bridge the gap between academia research and direct commercial grower implementation. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Karla Garcia, Founder and Director of Microgreens FLN & Technical Service Specialist at Hort Americas, all about the importance of cross-pollination between universities and commercial grow operations, how we can better collectively communicate to decrease silos and increase innovation and what she thinks the future of CEA may look like.

    219. The Importance of Civil Engineering in Greenhouse Site Selection & Planning w. Nick Long

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2023 36:32


    So you want to start a greenhouse but don't know where to begin? According to Nick Long of Livic Civil, one of your first steps should be contacting a Civil Engineer. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAtech Nick and I discuss the importance of contacting a Site & Civil Engineer as early as possible to avoid headaches down the road, the crazy world of permitting, and how different the process can be depending on your state or region, and the importance of having a clear understanding of your timeline. (It may be longer than you think!)   

    218. Growing Produce on Campus for on Campus Dining w. Daniel Wells & Glenn Loughridge

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2023 44:31


    Daniel Wells and Glenn Loughridge are on a mission at Auburn University. Not only to empower students to learn about cultivation but to understand best practices when speaking to buyers such as chefs. Topics on this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech include the power of local produce and its impact on flavor, the potential for culinary / CEA hubs as the future of local produce production and utility, and future predictions for controlled environment agriculture and beyond.   

    217. Food System Myths and Misconceptions w. Christopher Grallert

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 22, 2023 43:56


    Christopher Grallert is the president of Green City Growers and believes we must respect conventional farming and farmers, dispel myths about our food system, and work together not to keep reinventing the wheel or “inventing the whistle”. Topics include creating more circular economies within the food system, the power of local, safe food, and how we must constantly keep an open mind and be on guard to not downplay the complexities of the world we live in.

    216. Leveling Up your CEA Operation w. Luis Trujillo

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 14, 2023 40:16


    “People rarely succeed unless they have fun in what they are doing” -Dale Carnegie On this week's episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Luis Trujillo, President of Hoogendoorn America. Topics include the power of user-friendly tools for the success of your CEA grow operation, making work fun and "like a video game" to attract the next generation of passionate talent, and tackling your greenhouse and vertical farming challenges to make your business truly profitable. 

    215. Combating Food Deserts through CEA w. Alaric Overbey

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 7, 2023 33:22


    In this week's episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Alaric Overbey, Chief Farming Officer at GreenSideUp.FARM in Las Vegas. Using small-scale indoor farming & vertical farming systems, Alaric and his team are working to combat the food desert issue. Topics in our discussion include the importance of educating the community (teach a man to fish), the outdated stigma of what farming is and can be, serving food deserts by finding your community champion, and the power of grassroot movements to feed these communities. 

    214. The Power of Highly Automated Greenhouse Leafy Greens Production w. Gus Brennan

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 1, 2023 37:02


    Gus Brennan is a graduate of Cornell University with extensive experience within multiple avenues of CEA, including OnePointOne (vertical farming), Holistic Industries (Indoor Farming Cannabis), and now Greenswell Growers (Greenhouse leafy greens) using a Green Automation grow system with assistance from Crop King. Through these experiences, Gus instills some knowledge about the power of automation in all areas of your operation, the importance of giving the grower "superpowers" vs. replacing them, key lessons learned and his thoughts on the future of Controlled Environment Agriculture. 

    213. An Unbiased Perspective on Vertical Farming Through Numerous Interviews w. Thea-Isabella Otto

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 24, 2023 31:53


    Is vertical farming the end all be all for controlled environment agriculture and crop production? The short answer: No. But IT IS another addition to the grower's toolbox. On this week's episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Thea-Isabella Otto, who works with the Association of Vertical Farming along with being a vertical farm research consultant. Thea has spent the last couple of years traveling to vertical farms across the globe, interviewing cea business operators for numerous research projects, and gaining an unbiased perspective about the collective industry.  

    212. Looking Back to Move Forward: Lessons Learned from Blue Thumb Farms w. Allison Driskill

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 17, 2023 36:13


    In this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Allison Driskill of Signify about her past experience running Blue Thumb Farms, which closed its doors in 2021. In this incredibly honest and brave conversation, Allison talks about the lessons she learned from her experience, changes she would of make in the planning stages of the business, and taking what she learned to now assist growers across the country each day at Signify.  I want to especially express my gratitude for Allison doing this recording with me.. The best way to move forward within CEA greenhouse vertical farming hydroponics etcothers' learn from other's experiences and adjust according. By putting yourself out there and talking about your personal wisdom, you have surely caused a butterfly effect. THANK YOU, Allison! 

    211. Successful Water Management and Water Movement for Hydroponics w. Tim Reusch

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 11, 2023 38:24


    Happy New Year! CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech has some exciting plans for 2023 and even more exciting guests on the roster. Starting the year off, I speak with Tim Reusch of DRAMM all about the ins and outs of successful water management and movement within a hydroponics CEA facility. Key topics include the challenges and solutions for excessive water discharge, pros and cons of reverse osmosis, and Tim's golden rule(s) for having the best possible situation with your aqua. 

    210. Figuring out the Planning Phase of Vertical Farms w. Mario Gatineau

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 21, 2022 46:57


    We often speak about the challenges of operating a vertical farm but what about everything leading up to your first harvest? On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Mario Gatineau, CEO of Potager Farms about his journey leading him to start down the path of vertical farming, the challenges and lessons he experienced during the ongoing planning and construction phases, and what is on the horizon for his operation scheduled to open in 2023 using an IGS system.

    209. Organic Aquaponic Production w. Molly Stanek

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 13, 2022 37:30


    "Large-scale organic hydroponics/aquaponics production is so easy!" said no one ever - On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Molly Stanek, VP of Growing & Operations at Superior Fresh all about their organic aquaponic production, some of the key challenges they've overcome and what the future of the CEA industry may look like.

    208. #KyleTalksAgtech: Educating and Restoring Community Bonds through Indoor Growing Systems w. Alex Tyink

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2022 43:24


    Alex Tyink is the president of Fork Farms, and he believes anyone can be a farmer. With their vertical hydroponic technology, Fork Farms is transforming the way schools, businesses, healthcare facilities, nonprofits, and home users can grow healthy food year-round. Topics in this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech include the power of community growth through indoor growing systems, the potential for farming and healthy food to improve mental health, and how recent lettuce price increases are improving the viability of indoor growing methods for institutions. 

    207. #KyleTalksAgtech: Recession-Proofing your CEA Business w. Tobias Peggs

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 22, 2022 48:39


    On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech I speak with Tobias Peggs, CEO at Square Roots indoor farms. With a unique partnership with Gordon Foods, Tobias and I discuss growing the business over the years, asking the question, is CEA vertical farming a bubble like the 2000 dotcom bust? and some key strategies to recession-proof your company as we prepare for a potential economic winter. 

    206. #KyleTalksAgtech: Talking CEA Shop with O.G (Original Grower) Jennifer Waxman

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 8, 2022 37:33


    Jennifer Waxman has been growing hydroponically for over 20 years and understands what it takes to grow quality produce. On this episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech we talk about some of the critical issues the industry is facing, the importance of keeping the grower experts in the decision-making process, and what the future of the indoor farming industry may look like. 

    205. #KyleTalksAgtech: An Honest Look at Strawberry Vertical Farm Production w. Alexandre Van Deun

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2022 43:45


    Growing strawberries in a vertical farm is hard. How do you pollinate? Can you automate your facility with robotics? Can I start my strawberries from seed? Can I use my own cuttings? Alexandre Van Deun, Founder of Urban Harvest and I discuss these questions and many more in this strawberry themed episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech

    204. #KyleTalksAgtech: BioPharma Solutions via Vertical Farming w. Jacob Eisenberg

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 19, 2022 39:57


    Jacob Eisenberg is the Director of BioPharma Solutions at OnePointOne, a vertical farming technology company specializing in high tech aeroponic systems. On this epsiode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Jake and I discuss the power of vertical farming for medicine development, his global experience within vertical farms, and what to expect in the coming years within these industries. 

    203. #KyleTalksAgtech: The CEA Water Episode w. Kyle Lisabeth

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2022 31:56


    "Growing food hydroponically will save 99.999% water compared to conventional farming!" We've all heard this line, and while hydroponically growing greatly reduces water consumption compared to conventional farming, we must be on high alert to back up our claims with clear data. On this "water" episode of CropTalk #KyleTalksAgtech Kyle Lisabeth, VP of Horticulture at Silver Bullet and I discuss, you guessed it- water, the importance of accurate data and predictions for the future of CEA. 

    202. #KyleTalksAgtech: The Evolution of CEA and the state of the industry w. Paul Brentlinger

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 21, 2022 44:40


    Paul Brentlinger is the second generation owner of CropKing. Being raised in an environment where hydroponics was a constant, Paul has developed a clear, honest and insightful perspective on the current state of the CEA Industry, what to expect in the future and some fundamental lessons learned along the way.

    Claim CropTalk

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel