Vertical Farming Podcast

Ever wondered how a seasoned executive from the oil and gas industry ends up leading a vertical farming startup? I sat down with Michael Oster, CEO of Saffron Tech, to explore this fascinating journey.Michael's transition from the corporate world to the innovative field of vertical farming is a testament to adaptability in business. With decades of experience in oil and gas, real estate, and M&A, he brings a unique perspective to Saffron Tech. The company is pioneering the indoor cultivation of saffron, the world's most expensive spice, with potential applications ranging from culinary use to pharmaceuticals.We delved into the challenges of scaling up startups, particularly in the agricultural technology sector. Michael emphasized the importance of careful planning, realistic financial modeling, and securing off-take agreements before major investments. He shared valuable insights on balancing ambitious goals with practical considerations, drawing from both successes and setbacks in his career.Our conversation also touched on the geopolitical implications of saffron production, the potential for saffron-based pharmaceuticals, and the intricacies of building a commercial-scale vertical farm. Michael's leadership style, focused on leading by example and leveraging a small but highly skilled team, offers a blueprint for startup success in challenging industries.Curious about the intersection of traditional business acumen and cutting-edge agricultural technology? Listen to this episode to gain invaluable insights from a leader who's bridging these worlds and revolutionizing saffron production.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key Takeaways5:03 Board member roles and responsibilities explained8:08 Saffron's unique properties and market potential14:00 Challenges of scaling up agricultural startups17:35 Balancing passion and practicality in business21:42 Learning from failed real estate project26:47 Mitigating risks in high-risk venturesTweetable Quotes"Just to give you a perspective, you need 120,000 flowers growing to create £2 or a kilo of dry saffron. That's a lot of space. That's a lot of flowers.""We're producing the highest quality of saffron if you compare it to the different bands. In all categories of the active ingredients, we're producing a higher quality than the top notch saffron.""We're in a business that has high risk by design. The last thing you want to do is add to that with bullish assumptions. So we try to minimize them in a way that we'll have room for some failure and still be very successful."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://saffron-tech.ag/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeloster01/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

Ever wondered how indoor farming is revolutionizing the way we connect with our food? I sat down with Marc Oshima, CEO of Babylon Microfarms, to explore the cutting edge of sustainable agriculture.Marc Oshima brings over 30 years of experience in driving large-scale commercial businesses, including co-founding AeroFarms. Now at the helm of Babylon Microfarms, he's spearheading innovative solutions in B2B indoor farming across healthcare, corporate dining, hospitality, and education sectors.In this episode, we dive deep into how Babylon Microfarms is bringing the farm directly to customers, fostering a greater connection between people and their food. Marc shares insights on the company's success in increasing leafy green consumption by 35% in senior care facilities and their expansion to over 350 farms across five countries.We also discuss the evolution of the indoor farming industry, the importance of customer feedback, and how Babylon Microfarms is preserving cultural heritage through locally grown, culturally relevant produce. Marc offers valuable lessons on business fundamentals and the power of focus in scaling a successful AgTech company. Ready to discover how indoor farming is reshaping our relationship with food and transforming industries? Tune in to this episode for a fascinating glimpse into the future of sustainable agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:07 Babylon Microfarms' focus on key verticals10:40 Surprising installations and high-profile customers 16:19 Lessons from early industry struggles21:53 Listening to customers and adapting strategies27:17 Workforce development in indoor farming33:40 Cultural connections through locally grown food37:18 CEA Alliance's role in industry advocacyTweetable Quotes"We're seeing amazing use cases that we might not even have thought about. We were at this conference last week, and this fantastic operator chef was telling us how they've got the mint planted for the mint juleps for Kentucky Derby next week, and then they have the cilantro already planted and ready for Cinco de Mayo.""Understanding what business you're in, understanding the economics of your business, and appreciating how your technology can uniquely solve some of these challenges. I think that's core when you think about what's worked, what hasn't worked.""We have units cruising the world on cruise ships, literally cruising on cruise ships. It gives you a sense of the autonomy, the self-autonomous aspect and how resilient the farming approach is."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://babylonmicrofarms.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcoshima/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest -

Ever wondered how a mushroom farm could revolutionize the food industry? I sat down with John James Staniszewski, the creator of the fungitarian lifestyle and a pioneer in the vertical farming space, to uncover the secrets of his success.John's journey from nightclub manager to mushroom mogul is as fascinating as it is inspiring. He shares how he built a thriving mushroom farm from scratch, producing up to 35,000 pounds of mushrooms per month and supplying over 350 grocery stores.In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges of starting a vertical farm, the importance of hands-on leadership, and John's vision for creating 10 million fungitarians by 2027. John reveals how his past experiences in bodybuilding and personal training shaped his approach to the mushroom industry.We also explore the parallels between vertical farming and bodybuilding, the potential of mushrooms in addressing childhood health issues, and John's upcoming launch of bioavailable mushroom tinctures and gummies.If you're curious about the future of food, the potential of mushrooms, or how to build a successful vertical farming business, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain insights from a true innovator in the field.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:42 Transition from nightclub scene to bodybuilding11:15 Spiritual journey and discovery of magic mushrooms16:59 Building a mushroom farm22:31 Challenges of vertical farming and industry insights28:15 Developing fungitarian food products and business growth39:33 Current business operations and partnerships45:46 Defining success: Goal of 10 million fungitarians by 202750:57 Leadership growth and employee management strategiesTweetable Quotes"I've always been a weirdo, so in all reality it was for me I've been on this like universal timeline where all the things that I want to embody and do have just been ahead of time.""I believe that I have the opportunity, which you don't get in another lifetime, to be able to gear people towards a new food.""I'd rather have somebody that knows nothing and wants to learn everything than somebody who thinks they know everything."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://windycitymushroom.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-james-staniszewski-0728312ab/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights -

Ever wondered how automation is shaping the future of indoor farming? In this episode, I speak with Renko Schuil, Sales Manager of Indoor Farming at TTA ISO, a leading company in horticultural automation. With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Renko offers invaluable insights into the evolving world of vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture.We dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing the indoor farming sector, discussing everything from market dynamics to technological advancements. Renko shares his perspective on the importance of knowing your market, the potential of hybrid growing systems, and the critical role of automation in scaling up operations.Throughout our conversation, we explore the global landscape of indoor farming, touching on regional differences, emerging crop varieties, and the delicate balance between innovation and practicality. Renko also offers candid advice for newcomers to the industry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and forward-thinking.If you're curious about the future of food production and want to hear from an industry veteran, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights that could shape your understanding of indoor farming and its potential to revolutionize agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:14 Renko's extensive experience in horticulture industry10:47 Shift in sentiment towards vertical farming15:50 Origins and growth of TTA company20:13 Renko's role and responsibilities at TTA-ISO25:59 Common mistakes in vertical farming projects31:45 Regional differences in vertical farming needs36:53 TTA's approach to new crop automation requests41:46 Balancing advice and business opportunitiesTweetable Quotes"I think there's a market for vertical farming for sure, because otherwise I wouldn't be so enthusiastic about it.""Make a choice. Are you a tech company or a grower? Know your market.""Think ahead. Even if you're not ready for automation or high capacity equipment yet, get into talks with automation companies. It can save you a lot of time and money when you have to change certain things in your company in the future."Resources MentionedWebsite - www.tta.euLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/renkoschuil/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Ever wondered how to navigate the challenges of indoor farming and create successful products in this evolving industry? Oliver Rotko, CEO of Plant TUI and Arctic Farming, shares his journey and insights into the world of vertical farming.I sat down with Oliver to discuss his unique path from business student to indoor farming innovator. He revealed how his experiences in B2B sales, marketing, and even watchmaking contributed to his success in developing cutting-edge vertical farming solutions. Oliver's story is a testament to the power of patience, market research, and customer-centric product development.We delved into the development of Arctic Farming's flagship product, Herbie, a sleek and efficient indoor farming unit designed for the hospitality industry. Oliver explained the careful considerations behind its design, from the choice of materials to the user interface, all informed by extensive customer feedback and market testing. He also shared insights into the company's expansion into the consumer market with the acquisition of Plantui, a award-winning desktop hydroponic system.Throughout our conversation, Oliver emphasized the importance of taking a measured approach to growth in the vertical farming industry. He highlighted the need for patience, both from investors and entrepreneurs, and the value of learning from industry failures. We also touched on Arctic Farming's exciting ventures into space agriculture and the company's unique "Earth first, space second" strategy.If you're interested in the future of food production, sustainable agriculture, or entrepreneurship in emerging industries, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation with Oliver Rotko. Tune in to gain valuable lessons from a leader at the forefront of indoor farming innovation.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:53 Importance of video marketing for CEOs13:30 AI tools revolutionizing content creation16:19 Early days of Arctic Farming development 21:53 Herbie: Innovative restaurant-grade vertical farm27:41 Switching from aeroponics to fogponics34:53 Space ambitions and Earth-first strategy37:52 Acquiring Plantui: Consumer-focused hydroponic system43:18 Motivation behind pursuing indoor farmingTweetable Quotes"We've taken it incredibly slow, gathering feedback, meanwhile seeing all these bankruptcies, for example, from infarm, learning from them, interviewing the insiders, interviewing their ex investors, interviewing their customer suppliers and so on, and kind of feeding all of that information and learnings from the customers, from the industry, from experts like you back into the product.""Why do we do this? To be honest, I had a wonderful conversation with a colleague from the US where the standard greeting that we have is, how are you doing? Fine, thank you. And as well as you can do as an indoor farming startup or entrepreneur, it's. This is the most difficult industry that I can imagine getting into.""Just seeing the iterative progress with a product that you have designed from zero, literally scratch, is the most rewarding feeling that you can have."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.arcticfarming.io/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliverrotko/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter -

Have you ever wondered how to grow fresh produce year-round, even in the harshest climates? I sat down with Conner Tidd, co-founder and CEO of Just Vertical, to discuss the innovative world of indoor farming and how it's changing the way we think about food production. Conner's journey into vertical farming began with a desire to make a tangible impact on food security and sustainability. With a background in environmental law and restaurant experience, he saw the potential for indoor farming to address issues of food waste and accessibility. Just Vertical started as an academic project and evolved into a company offering both consumer and commercial vertical farming solutions.We delved into the challenges of developing user-friendly indoor farming systems, from early prototypes built with Home Depot materials to sleek, furniture-like designs that fit seamlessly into homes. Conner emphasized the importance of making vertical farming technology accessible and easy to use, whether for home growers or large-scale commercial operations.The conversation also touched on Just Vertical's expansion into commercial projects, including partnerships with educational institutions and humanitarian efforts. Conner shared insights on the future of vertical farming, the need for innovation in seed development, and the importance of collaboration within the industry.If you're curious about the future of food production and how vertical farming could revolutionize agriculture, don't miss this enlightening conversation with Conner Tidd. Listen now to gain valuable insights into the world of indoor farming and its potential to address global food challenges.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:09 Conner's restaurant experience and food waste10:55 Origin story of Just Vertical21:23 Variety of crops grown on living walls25:01 Accessibility and ease of use focus29:48 Global projects and ideal farming partners33:56 Innovation in vertical farming seeds36:18 Addressing AeroGarden closure and industry outlookTweetable Quotes"We always say everything's fixable as long as we know about it. And that's, you know, we emphasize that with employees now. But even early days, like the first few indoor gardens we sold, like, watch the leak, they spilled onto people's floors. Like we short circuited stuff. The worst thing we could have done would have been to kind of shirk responsibility and try and hide from those customer calls.""Our big thing that we always push is accessibility and easy use in this technology. We view our role as understanding all the really cool science that goes into making great LED lights, great control systems, great nutrients and integrating that into a package that is easy for farmers to use and grow with.""We span the education sphere from kindergarten all the way through PhD research. With little kids it's often just about showing them where food comes from and it's not just from the grocery store and getting hands-on experience. So education is a great venue. It's something people are really interested in and we're happy to be part of it because it really drives the industry as well."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://justvertical.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/connertidd/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter -

Ever wondered how to revitalize struggling communities while promoting sustainable practices? I had the pleasure of speaking with Kirk Taylor, co-founder of Land Betterment Corporation, about their innovative approach to community development and sustainable agriculture. Kirk's background in accounting and finance, combined with his entrepreneurial spirit, led him to tackle the challenges faced by transitioning communities in areas like Kentucky, West Virginia, and southern Indiana.We discussed Land Betterment's unique projects, including the transformation of abandoned industrial sites into housing solutions and the development of container-based farms in partnership with Anu. Kirk explained how their 20-foot shipping container farms, equipped with advanced automation technology, are revolutionizing local food production. These compact, efficient units are being deployed in various settings, from restaurants and grocery stores to universities, addressing food security issues and promoting education in sustainable agriculture.Throughout our conversation, Kirk emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and community-driven solutions. He shared examples of how Land Betterment works closely with local communities to identify their needs and develop tailored solutions, whether it's creating affordable housing or repurposing land for agricultural use. We also touched on the company's involvement in sustainable fertilizer recycling and their commitment to circular economy principles.If you're interested in innovative approaches to community development, sustainable agriculture, or the intersection of business and social impact, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in to hear Kirk Taylor's insights on creating positive change through entrepreneurship and technology.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways11:31 ReElement Technologies: Recycling battery elements16:31 Innovative housing solutions using shipping containers22:20 Partnership with Anu for container farming28:43 Applications for container farms in various industries34:34 Building a diverse board for Land Betterment39:50 Balancing opportunities and allocating time effectivelyTweetable Quotes"We understood that we were not a nonprofit. We wanted to create a business that made sense financially. But we also wanted our investors and our partners to understand that we were making decisions not just for their return, but to maximize the return of all our stakeholders.""The challenge with any farming is external environment and human error. We solve the external environment by doing it inside a shipping container. Our competition doesn't solve for the human error component, but the Anu team does.""I think that everybody has the ability to make something out of themselves and be proud of what they do. Not everybody realizes that. By providing direct roadmaps, direct opportunity for these community members, we can give them the steps that they can walk up on their own."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.landbetterment.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkptaylor/Connect With...

Ever wondered how beer brewing could revolutionize vertical farming? Mat Halter, founder of TerraFerm, is turning brewery waste into a game-changing resource for indoor agriculture. Mat Halter, a plant scientist turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from researching biofuels to developing an innovative system that captures CO2 from brewery fermentation for use in vertical farms. His patented technology promises to significantly boost crop yields while reducing carbon footprints.In this episode, Mat discusses the challenges of bringing a new idea to market, from conducting initial experiments to seeking partnerships with breweries. He reveals how his spinach trials resulted in an astounding 89% increase in yield, far surpassing typical carbon dioxide enrichment results.We also explore the intersection of craft beer culture and sustainable agriculture, Mat's approach to team building as a first-time founder, and the potential for this technology to transform both the brewing and farming industries.If you're curious about innovative solutions in sustainable agriculture or the unexpected synergies between different industries, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to discover how Mat Halter is brewing up a greener future for vertical farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsIndoor AgCon - https://indoor.agKey Takeaways5:37 Early career in plant science and biofuels10:43 Initial idea for carbon dioxide enrichment15:36 Patent process and prototype development21:40 Current status and plans for pilot project27:51 Challenges as a first-time founder32:32 Building a team and seeking mentorship36:07 Potential brewery partnerships and marketing38:38 Where to learn more about TerraFermTweetable Quotes"The advantage we have is, in theory, a never-ending supply. So we can use carbon dioxide enrichment at whatever set point we want - high, low, medium, whatever. We can take it as high as metabolically the plants will allow.""What am I missing? Again, I am a first-time founder. This is the first business I've started. What don't I know? I don't know what I don't know. It's a constant battle to learn more about strategies for starting a business, for seeking funding.""San Diego is a great place to be for beer. There's a lot of small to medium range breweries out here. Very high density. I'm hoping to make contact with a couple of them and eventually find one that sees the vision I have for this and wants to come along."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.terra-ferm.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathew-halter-082043a3/X - https://x.com/TerraFerm_AgInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/terraferm_agtech/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

Ever wondered how vertical farming could revolutionize food production and make fresh, flavorful produce more accessible? In this enlightening conversation with Rick Langille, CEO of Harvest Today, we explore the cutting-edge developments in vertical farming technology and their potential impact on the future of agriculture.Rick shares exciting updates on Harvest Today's progress, including the launch of their Shopify site and upcoming innovations in their Harvest Wall system. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and customer-centric approaches in the vertical farming industry, highlighting the need for diverse crop solutions beyond just lettuce or strawberries. Rick's insights into the company's expansion into international markets, particularly in India and the Middle East, showcase the global potential of their technology.We delve into Harvest Today's partnerships and technological advancements, such as their collaboration with Ecoplume for AI-driven plant growth monitoring and their work with Rooted Robotics for automated cleaning solutions. Rick also discusses the company's plans for cost reduction, including strategic manufacturing decisions and the potential establishment of a private equity fund to support farmers.If you're curious about the future of sustainable agriculture and how vertical farming is evolving to meet global food demands, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights from an industry leader and learn how Harvest Today is working to make fresh, flavorful produce more accessible through innovative vertical farming solutions.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:05 Industry outlook and diversifying crop offerings9:43 Harvest Wall's unique microbiome approach15:28 Navigating challenges and maintaining patience20:13 Manufacturing partnerships and cost reduction strategies25:31 Developing a super app for wellness 31:00 Success story of small-scale vertical farmTweetable Quotes"We need to be much more broad spectrum. We need to be able to address diets that are more than lettuce.""The harvest wall was really based around the plant biology of rooted plants. Because as we vertically irrigate or we use hydroponic technology in order to feed plants, hydroponics never allows a true microbiome to get going.""Quality is number one, though. Always, always, always. This isn't a toy."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.harvest.today/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/harvest-today/YouTube - @harvesttodayInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/harvest.today/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/HarvestTodayLLC/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

In this special tribute episode of The Vertical Farming Podcast, I honor the life and legacy of Dr. Dickson Despommier, the visionary who laid the foundation for vertical farming as we know it today.His book, The Vertical Farm: Feeding the World in the 21st Century, completely changed the way I thought about food production, sustainability, and the future of agricultureReading it in 2019 was a turning point for me—it was the spark that led to the creation of this podcast.Over the years, I've spoken with over 150 CEOs and founders in the industry, and so many of them cite Dr. Despommier as a major influence on their work. His vision of growing food in urban skyscrapers was once considered radical, but today, it's shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.Though he's no longer with us, his ideas continue to inspire, and it's up to all of us—researchers, farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors—to carry his vision forward. This episode is my way of saying thank you to a man whose ideas changed my life—and the world.Additional Social TributesMarc Oshima on LinkedInNona Yehia on LinkedInHonoring Dr. Dickson Despommier: The Visionary Who Planted the Seeds for Vertical Farming's Future - Henry Gordon-SmithThanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Resources MentionedThe Vertical Farm: Feeding the World in the 21st Century, by Dickson Despommier - https://amzn.to/3QhWWyYConnect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Ever wondered how to start a vertical farm in a city with limited space and resources? Jessica Naomi Fong's journey with Common Farms in Hong Kong is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and customer-focused growth. Jessica Naomi Fong, Founder and CEO of Common Farms, shares her inspiring story of launching a vertical farming business in Hong Kong just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. With a background in the restaurant industry and manufacturing, Jessica leveraged her unique perspective to create a thriving microgreens and specialty greens business in one of the world's most densely populated cities.In this episode, Jessica delves into the challenges of starting a vertical farm from scratch, including educating customers, building relationships with chefs, and adapting to market demands. She discusses the importance of keeping systems simple, focusing on customer needs, and continuously improving product quality and diversity.Jessica also touches on the future of Common Farms, including their focus on functional foods and the nutritional benefits of microgreens. She shares insights on growing as a CEO, the importance of building a strong team, and the value of collaboration within the indoor farming industry.If you're interested in the intersection of urban agriculture, culinary innovation, and entrepreneurship, this episode offers a wealth of practical insights and inspiration. Tune in to learn how Jessica turned challenges into opportunities and built a successful vertical farming business in an unlikely environment.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:07 Starting a business during COVID10:22 Origin story of Common Farms15:05 Building relationships with chefs26:20 Customizing produce for chefs32:31 Focusing on functional food43:10 Tough questions for entrepreneurs46:42 Collaboration in indoor farmingTweetable Quotes"We were very methodical about that. But then again, we had to test the market. Do people want microgreens? What microgreens do they want? How do they want them? What's the crop diversity? How much diversity do we need? What's the price point?""I created this scenario and this character and that future of the business. And that was the mission. That was the goal for me.""We can't do this alone. We really welcome anyone that's developing anything to reach out to us. We're constantly in the experimental stage, which means we're always incrementally making improvements and we can't figure all of this out on our own."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://commonfarms.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-naomi-fong/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer -

Ever wondered how cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing indoor farming? I've got the inside scoop on the latest innovations that are changing the game. In this episode of the Vertical Farming Podcast, host Harry Duran sits down with Per Lysaa, CTO and co-founder of Elevate Farms and founder of Intravision Group AS. With over two decades of experience in photobiology and LED technology, Per brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation about controlled environment agriculture.Per shares his journey from architecture to pioneering LED applications in plant growth, discussing the development of Elevate Farms' patented gravity flow system. This innovative approach allows for highly automated, large-scale production of leafy greens at commodity pricing, potentially disrupting traditional farming methods.The conversation delves into the challenges of scaling vertical farming operations, the importance of partnerships in innovation, and the potential for machine learning and AI to further advance the industry. Per also touches on the global water crisis and its implications for future food production, highlighting the critical role vertical farming could play in addressing these challenges.If you're curious about the future of food production and how technology is shaping sustainable agriculture, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain insights from one of the industry's leading innovators and discover the potential of vertical farming to address global food security challenges.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:22 Early Work with LEDs and Photobiology10:09 Space Research and Plant Growth15:52 Cannabis Research and LED Advancements20:29 Founding Elevate and Business Strategy25:21 Balancing Roles in Two CompaniesTweetable Quotes"Plants have light receptors. So they are able to detect from far red through red, green, blue, up to the UV. And whenever they detect, the combination of spectrum and intensity sets off a chemical process in the plant that directly controls morphology and what we call primary and secondary metabolite processes.""I read Peter Drucker, the guy who invented management theory and quality management, and he said that the purpose of a business is the creation of customers. It's not about shareholder value or maximizing return on investment, it's about creation of customers.""We are facing a global water crisis which will greatly impact and disrupt how we make food on this planet. And 2030 and onwards, it's going to look bad. Countries in Asia, Africa, parts of Europe, parts of North America are really badly positioned."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.elevate.farm/ & https://www.intravisiongroup.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/per-aage-lysaa-9685592/Connect With UsVFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

Ever wondered how vertical farming could revolutionize the cotton industry? I sat down with Simon Wardle, CEO of Gooddrop, to explore this groundbreaking concept.Simon Wardle brings a unique perspective to vertical farming, combining his background in design with a vision for sustainable cotton production. As the leader of Good Drop, he's spearheading an initiative to grow cotton in controlled environments, potentially transforming the textile industry.In this episode, we delve into Good Drop's ambitious plans to create a closed-loop system for cotton production. Simon shares insights on their progress, from container-based experiments to plans for a pilot facility, and discusses the challenges of reinventing the cotton supply chain.We also explore the broader implications of this innovation, touching on topics such as energy sustainability, the potential for localized production, and the hurdles of disrupting a centuries-old industry. Simon offers a candid look at the realities of bringing a new concept to market in the vertical farming space.If you're curious about the future of sustainable textiles and the role vertical farming could play, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Simon's fascinating journey and the potential impact of vertically farmed cotton.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways00:42 Collaboration and Industry Insights06:00 Thanksgiving and Cultural Differences12:00 Design Background and Transition24:00 Challenges and Innovations30:00 Leadership and Team Building36:00 Industry Disruption and Future PlansTweetable Quotes"We're not just growing the raw material, we're going to convert it. And with that we're then going to a third party supply chain to deliver product. Working with dyeing companies, weaving companies, fabrication companies, designers as a proof of concept.""There's expertise at many milestones that I have an overall understanding of these things. I have lots of curiosity about these things, but true expertise in the relevant areas - we need to go and get that.""We don't want to be restricted to the UK borders, though, once we get going. We want to build these things wherever they need to be built and scale, scale, scale, and see what we can do about helping the climate, turn it around somewhat, be part of that movement to try and make a difference there."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.good-drop.com/LinkedIn - http://linkedin.com/in/simon-w-09900827Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

Are you tired of the rat race and dreaming of a self-sufficient lifestyle? In this episode, I chat with Daryl Urbanski, a seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for personal sovereignty. Daryl's journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a successful business strategist is nothing short of inspiring. With over 17 years of experience in helping businesses thrive, Daryl has now turned his focus to innovative housing solutions.We dive into the concept of the Oasis Biohome, a revolutionary approach to off-grid living that promises self-reliance and sustainability. Daryl shares how these homes can be built quickly and affordably, offering a path to freedom from traditional utility dependencies. We also explore the potential of vertical farming within these homes, providing fresh produce right at your doorstep.Beyond housing, we touch on broader themes of personal freedom, the importance of self-reliance, and the challenges of modern living. Daryl's insights into the future of sustainable living are both thought-provoking and practical. If you're curious about breaking free from conventional living and embracing a more independent lifestyle, this episode is a must-listen. Click to hear more about how you can take control of your future!Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways14:00 Self-Reliance and Business Philosophy26:00 Challenges and Opportunities32:00 Steps to Building an Oasis Home38:00 Sovereignty and Sustainable LivingTweetable Quotes"Everything I'm not made me everything I am.""A job is just a business with one customer, your boss, and one product, your time, and that's not scalable.""We farm food crops for food. People herd livestock for meat and profit. Governments farm people."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://members.bestbusinesscoach.ca/ & https://wonderfulstructures.com/oasis-bio-homes/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/darylurbanski/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - www.getrevue.co/profile/verticalfarmingpodcast

Are you curious about how vertical farming could revolutionize agriculture and address global food challenges? Join me as I explore this fascinating topic with Alexander Jaworski, co-founder of GreenHub, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in sustainable agriculture and innovative farming solutions.Alexander Jaworski, a passionate advocate for vertical farming, shares his journey from growing up in a small German town to becoming a leader in the field of sustainable agriculture. With a background in finance and a deep commitment to creating sustainable solutions, Alexander has dedicated his career to transforming the way we think about food production.In our conversation, we dive into the intricacies of vertical farming, discussing its potential to provide fresh produce in urban areas and its role in addressing food security issues worldwide. Alexander explains how GreenHub's innovative systems are designed to support research and development, helping to optimize growing conditions and improve crop yields.We also touch on Alexander's experiences in Latin America, the challenges of starting a business in the vertical farming industry, and the importance of collaboration and data sharing among industry players. His insights offer a unique perspective on the future of agriculture and the potential for technology to drive positive change.Ready to learn more about the future of farming and how it could impact your life? Click to listen and discover the transformative power of vertical farming with Alexander Jaworski.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways05:44 Starting the Aquaponics Project17:36 Industry Challenges and Opportunities30:49 Leadership and Mentorship35:31 Future of GreenHub and Vertical Farming38:03 Collaboration and Data Sharing in the IndustryTweetable Quotes"I never wanted to be part of the agricultural sector, but then my co-founder got me into the topic, and it became important to me.""We realized the price point customers wanted was around €2,000, but our system would have cost at least €10,000, so we pivoted from a B2C to a B2B product.""It's always great to see the initial reactions of young students when you talk to them about vertical farming, because most of them haven't heard about it."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://greenhub.eu/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-jaworski-796b00188/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/greenhub.eu/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@greenhub7525/featuredConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs -

Are you still manually turning your greenhouse lights on and off? Discover how integrated control systems can revolutionize your vertical farming operations. Join me as I sit down with Gretchen Schimelpfenig, a leading expert in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry. With a background in high-performance buildings and sustainable design, Gretchen has carved out a niche in energy efficiency for greenhouses and indoor farms. Her journey from aspiring sustainable designer to a key player in the CEA industry offers valuable insights into the intersection of energy and agriculture.In our conversation, we explore the transformative potential of integrated control systems in vertical farming. Gretchen shares her experiences and findings from a California-based study, highlighting the untapped opportunities for energy monitoring and smarter control strategies. We delve into the challenges and innovations within the industry, emphasizing the importance of blending traditional and modern technologies to drive progress. Beyond the main discussion, we touch on the significance of diversity in the CEA industry, the role of conferences in fostering connections, and the evolving landscape of vertical farming. Gretchen also shares her thoughts on the future of the industry and the trends shaping its growth. Curious to learn how you can optimize your vertical farming operations and stay ahead in the industry? Click to listen and gain insights from Gretchen's expertise and experiences.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:38 Early Career Path10:01 Role in CEA20:15 Data Sharing Challenges26:17 Upcoming Conferences33:17 CEA Industry Trends45:20 Nutritional Value in CEATweetable Quotes"I always saw myself as a translator, taking best practices from building design and energy management and applying them to the CEA industry. It's been a pleasure to learn and share knowledge across these fields.""As a woman in STEM, I've always pushed for more representation. I believe in lifting others up and being a voice that offers a new perspective, especially in an industry that often sees the same types of people on panels.""The challenge is making the work I do pay for itself, especially when costs are high. I strive to ensure that my contributions, whether through rebates or grants, ultimately make projects more affordable for growers."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://gretchenschimelpfenig.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gschimelpfenig/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

Are you ready to explore the intersection of technology and agriculture with insights from a seasoned expert? Join me as I sit down with Floris Berghout, CEO of Viemose DGS, a leader in the horticulture industry. Floris brings a wealth of experience from his journey through various roles in horticulture, culminating in his current position where he bridges traditional and modern agricultural practices. In our conversation, Floris shares his unexpected entry into the world of horticulture and how his passion for green technology and international business has shaped his career. We delve into the sophisticated technologies behind greenhouse systems and the innovative moving gutter systems for leafy greens and herbs that Viemose specializes in. Floris offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the vertical farming industry, emphasizing the importance of blending old and new knowledge to drive innovation. Beyond the main discussion, we touch on the importance of mentorship, the dynamics of building a cohesive team, and the evolving landscape of indoor farming. Floris also shares his thoughts on the future of agriculture, the impact of climate change on farming practices, and the potential for growth in international markets. Curious to learn more about how technology is transforming agriculture and what the future holds for this vital industry? Click to listen and gain valuable insights from Floris Berghout's experiences and vision for the future of farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways05:00 Early Career and Horticulture10:00 Moving Gutter Systems15:00 Team Building and Company Culture20:00 Industry Trends and Challenges25:00 Conferences and Networking30:00 Future Plans for ViemoseTweetable Quotes"I stumbled upon horticulture by chance, and it was a steep learning curve. But the industry either captivates you, or you leave straight away.""The mindset is crucial. It's not about reaching the end, but enjoying the journey. I try to make the best out of every situation, even when things don't go as planned.""Reach out and talk to people from all walks of life. Don't create a bubble for yourself. The more diverse your conversations, the more you learn and grow."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://viemose-dgs.dk/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/floris-berghout-88630a9/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ViemoseDgsYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHPRlFRsoGmCVj6usewG-FQConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs -

Are you tired of bland supermarket produce that lacks flavor and nutrition? Join me as I dive into a conversation with Daniel Bosman, the innovative founder of Our Greenery, who is revolutionizing the way we think about food production and consumption. With a background in entrepreneurship and sustainable product development, Daniel brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the table, aiming to reconnect people with the food they eat.In this episode, Daniel shares his journey from a young entrepreneur selling cocktails outside clubs to founding a company focused on hyper-local food production. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of creating the Raumgarten, a stylish and efficient indoor gardening system that allows users to grow fresh produce right in their living rooms. Daniel's insights into the importance of food quality and the impact of supply chains on nutrition are eye-opening and thought-provoking.We also explore Daniel's diverse background, including his ventures in surfboard manufacturing and his passion for design and sustainability. The conversation touches on the role of technology in food production, the potential health benefits of interacting with living plants, and the importance of building a community around innovative food solutions.Curious to learn how you can transform your relationship with food and embrace a healthier lifestyle? Click to listen to the full episode and discover the future of indoor farming with Daniel Bosman.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways05:00 Fundraising and Major Customers10:00 Passion for Electronic Music20:00 Our Greenery's Mission 25:00 Product Design and Community30:00 Form Factor and Market Approach35:00 Challenges and Timing40:00 Collaboration in the IndustryTweetable Quotes"I always love to create new things that have a combination of usefulness and design. With our greenery, that is hopefully the pinnacle of that journey, where a furniture piece can inspire people to live healthier and better." "We have to step away from trying to be perfect or pretending something that is not natural because I feel that is actually one of the roots of our current society issues." "I really believe that together we are standing a way better chance. This market is so young, and I think that even the D2C brands, even the brands that are doing similar products, should look into our timeline of the next products that we want to do."Resources MentionedWebsite - http://www.ourgreenery.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-bosman-og/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ourgreenery_de/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oz0J896ueMgConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

Are you curious about the challenges and triumphs of building a business in the vertical farming industry? Join me as I sit down with Jacob, the Co-founder of FarmBox Foods, who shares his journey from firefighting to entrepreneurship. With a background in building companies and a passion for mission-driven work, Jake offers a unique perspective on the indoor farming space.In our conversation, Jacob delves into the origins of FarmBox Foods, highlighting the company's evolution from an idea for shipping container homes to a thriving business in vertical farming. He discusses the development of their key products, including the Vertical Hydroponic Farm and the Gourmet Mushroom Farm, and the lessons learned along the way. Jacob's insights into the importance of adaptability and learning from mistakes provide valuable takeaways for anyone interested in entrepreneurship.We also explore the impact of COVID-19 on FarmBox Foods, the company's approach to team building, and the significance of mission-driven work. Jacob's shares stories of how their products have made a difference in communities, from providing fresh food to creating educational opportunities. His reflections on the indoor farming industry and the importance of collaboration offer a thought-provoking look at the future of sustainable agriculture.If you're eager to learn more about the innovative world of vertical farming and the inspiring journey of FarmBox Foods, click to listen to the full episode.Discover how Jacob and his team are making a difference, one container at a time.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways05:34 Entrepreneurial beginnings and firefighting10:09 Transition to solar and business influences15:34 Founding FarmBox and initial challenges20:46 Impact of COVID-19 on business operations26:00 Product offerings and market focus31:07 Mission-driven approach and community impact36:33 Industry insights and future outlook for FarmBoxTweetable Quotes"We started FarmBox in late 2017... we didn't know anything about the industry, we didn't know anything about what we were doing. We just kind of jumped into it and figured it out.""There's a lot of problems in the world and I think there's a lot of smart people that can solve those problems, but they need to solve them. So if we can be part of the solution, which we're not the solution, you know, we're just this little piece of it, I think that's powerful.""I think our food system is broken... people need to start understanding, you know, if we don't change it, like if we don't start changing what we're putting in our bodies, it's going to be really bad."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://farmboxfoods.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-savageau-0b99a5193/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/farmboxfoods/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@farmboxfoodsConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram -

In this episode, I speak with Mattias Karls, a seasoned entrepreneur hailing from Stockholm, Sweden. Mattias shares his journey from the heartland of Sweden to becoming a serial entrepreneur, starting right after his university days during the IT boom of the late '90s. We dive into his experiences with his first company, which grew rapidly and hooked him on the thrill of entrepreneurship. Mattias also opens up about his time at Disruptive Materials, where he helped launch a groundbreaking new material, and how his career took a turn after a personal health challenge. His story is one of resilience and passion for innovation, and it's fascinating to hear how these experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and business.We also explore Mattias's current venture, Direct Carbon, and the exciting potential it holds in the indoor farming and air quality sectors. Mattias talks about the company's origins, the innovative technology they're developing, and the unique challenges and opportunities in the vertical farming industry. He shares insights into the decision-making process behind joining Direct Carbon and the strategic moves they're making to expand their impact. Whether you're interested in entrepreneurship, cutting-edge technology, or sustainable solutions, Mattias's journey offers valuable lessons and inspiration.Join us as we uncover the story behind Direct Carbon and the future of indoor farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways02:05 Journey of a Serial Entrepreneur8:26 The Disruptive Materials Journey12:10 The Origin Story of Direct Carbon18:09 The Potential of Direct Air Capture and Indoor Farming22:54 Greentech Conference Experience26:44 Direct Carbon Capture for Small Farms29:25 Plug and Play Farm Technology38:08 Challenges in the Indoor Farming Industry39:42 Transitioning to New TechnologiesTweetable Quotes"I think when you get more experienced, you have the confidence to actually make decisions, even if you don't have all the information. Early in your career, you gather input endlessly, thinking it will make the decision easier, but it often doesn't.""We launched our first unit at Greentech, and having the machine running in the booth drew a lot of attention. It was a smart move because it allowed us to show how it worked, which was crucial for engaging potential clients.""Balancing spending and progress is always a struggle in a startup. You want to invest in everything—fairs, customer visits, better processes—but you have to decide if it's the right time or if you should achieve certain milestones first."Resources MentionedWebsite - www.direct-carbon.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattiaskarls/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs -

In this episode, I speak with Juan Gabriel Succar, the Co-founder of Verde Compacto, as he returns to share the latest developments in the world of vertical farming. Since our last conversation in 2022, Juan and his team have been busy refining their approach, focusing on standardizing their product offerings and expanding their reach. We dive into the lessons learned over the past two years, including the importance of selecting the right opportunities and aligning them with their core business strategy. Juan's insights into the evolving market in Mexico and beyond are invaluable, especially as he discusses the growing interest in vertical farming and the strategic shifts his company has made to stay ahead.Juan also opens up about the exciting new projects Verde Compacto is working on, such as their micro-farming catalog aimed at bringing vertical farming into homes. He shares how the company is leveraging partnerships, like their collaboration with Siemens, to enhance their technology and data capabilities. We also explore the broader industry trends, including the increasing visibility of vertical farming in Mexico and the role of conferences in fostering industry growth.Juan's passion for innovation and his commitment to making a positive impact through sustainable farming practices shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways04:22 Lessons Learned from International Expansion07:41 Evolution of Leadership Roles at Verde Compacto12:55 Vertical Farming's Rise in Mexico14:13 Building a Vertical Farming Ecosystem15:34 Shift in Vertical Farming Investments17:28 Launch of Micro Farming Catalog22:19 The Impact of Severe Drought on Water Awareness24:27 Political Environment and NAFTA's Role in North American Trade28:04 Educating Consumers on Home Hydroponics29:53 Vertical Farming's Brand Strategy in Mexico31:20 Growth of Vertical Farming Industry in Mexico34:20 Zen Communities in MexicoTweetable Quotes"Experience is the best teacher there is. We've made a lot of mistakes on this road, but these mistakes have helped us improve our quality controls, selling terms, sales strategy, and partnerships.""Our client's success is our own success. Most of the success of the client is in the daily operations and management of the farms.""As long as we work together and are willing to cooperate, make partnerships, and talk about success stories, more than seeing us as competitors, we can create confidence behind the industry."Resources MentionedLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-gabriel-succar-abascal-53331b191/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerdeCompactoInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/verdecompacto/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

In this episode, I speak with Juan Gabriel Succar, the Co-founder of Verde Compacto, as he returns to share the latest developments in the world of vertical farming. Since our last conversation in 2022, Juan and his team have been busy refining their approach, focusing on standardizing their product offerings and expanding their reach. We dive into the lessons learned over the past two years, including the importance of selecting the right opportunities and aligning them with their core business strategy. Juan's insights into the evolving market in Mexico and beyond are invaluable, especially as he discusses the growing interest in vertical farming and the strategic shifts his company has made to stay ahead.Juan also opens up about the exciting new projects Verde Compacto is working on, such as their micro-farming catalog aimed at bringing vertical farming into homes. He shares how the company is leveraging partnerships, like their collaboration with Siemens, to enhance their technology and data capabilities. We also explore the broader industry trends, including the increasing visibility of vertical farming in Mexico and the role of conferences in fostering industry growth.Juan's passion for innovation and his commitment to making a positive impact through sustainable farming practices shine through, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways04:22 Lessons Learned from International Expansion07:41 Evolution of Leadership Roles at Verde Compacto12:55 Vertical Farming's Rise in Mexico14:13 Building a Vertical Farming Ecosystem15:34 Shift in Vertical Farming Investments17:28 Launch of Micro Farming Catalog22:19 The Impact of Severe Drought on Water Awareness24:27 Political Environment and NAFTA's Role in North American Trade28:04 Educating Consumers on Home Hydroponics29:53 Vertical Farming's Brand Strategy in Mexico31:20 Growth of Vertical Farming Industry in Mexico34:20 Zen Communities in MexicoTweetable Quotes"Experience is the best teacher there is. We've made a lot of mistakes on this road, but these mistakes have helped us improve our quality controls, selling terms, sales strategy, and partnerships.""Our client's success is our own success. Most of the success of the client is in the daily operations and management of the farms.""As long as we work together and are willing to cooperate, make partnerships, and talk about success stories, more than seeing us as competitors, we can create confidence behind the industry."Resources MentionedLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juan-gabriel-succar-abascal-53331b191/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerdeCompactoInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/verdecompacto/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

In this episode, I speak with Elmar Mair, the CEO and founder of Neatleaf. Elmar shares his fascinating journey from growing up in the Italian countryside to becoming a leader in the vertical farming industry. We dive into his early passion for AI and robotics, which led him to work on groundbreaking projects like Google's Everyday Robot. Elmar's story is a testament to how diverse experiences can converge to create innovative solutions in agriculture. His insights into the fourth agricultural revolution and the potential of data-driven farming are truly eye-opening.We also explore the origins of Neatleaf and the challenges Elmar faced in starting the company during the pandemic. He discusses the development of their flagship product, the Neat Spider, a cable-based robot that monitors crops in greenhouses. Elmar's enthusiasm for leveraging technology to improve crop yields and reduce waste is contagious. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or someone interested in sustainable farming, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.Join us as we uncover the future of agriculture through the lens of AI and robotics.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways1:07 Elmar's Journey from Google to Agtech3:34 The Fascination with AI's Capabilities5:05 Complexity in Robotics8:35 The Future of Greenhouse Technology9:52 Neatleaf's Impact on Agriculture12:57 Challenges in Agtech Adoption17:13 The Evolution of the Spider System19:39 Recruiting Challenges for Startups22:42 The Importance of Mission and Meaning27:52 Evolution of the Cultivator Role28:54 Analogy of London Cab Drivers and Cultivators32:43 Cannabis as a High-Margin Market34:41 Automation and Data in Large-Scale Farming37:00 Automating Cultivation Processes41:28 Automation in AgricultureTweetable Quotes"I fell in love with automation, robotics, and AI, and ended up studying that, working in space. Then I learned about agriculture and the fourth agricultural revolution. It felt like closing the loop, coming from the countryside, spending summers at my aunt's farm, and now working in that space again.""The first time I actually programmed an embedded system and had an impact in the physical world with my programming, I realized, wow, this is super exciting. You can distort audio, make a guitar distortion device, and see something moving around. I wanted to move things in the world and talk to these machines.""In cultivation, one of the biggest markets and the oldest markets, we rely on humans to walk the aisles, look at the crop, understand what's going on, and interpret the language of the plants. It's such a complex space with all these factors—temperature, humidity, CO2, lighting, irrigation, nutrients—all correlated and impacting each other. And a human goes in there and subjectively assesses the situation."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.neatleaf.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elmar-mair/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/neatleaf.inc/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP

In this episode, I speak with Junell Abdi, the Founder and CTO of GEIA.AI. We first met at the Indoor Agtech Summit in Chicago, and I was immediately impressed by his innovative approach to indoor farming. Junell shares his journey from being a city boy in Israel to moving to Hungary and starting GEIA.AI. He talks about the challenges and triumphs of pitching his startup on a big stage and the importance of small startups in the Agtech space. His passion for automating and improving farming efficiency is truly inspiring, and his story is a testament to the power of curiosity and self-learning. Junell dives into the technology behind GEIA.AI, explaining how his system uses sensors and automation to help farmers, both big and small, optimize their growing environments. He shares fascinating anecdotes about his early experiments with aquaponics and the development of his IoT-based solutions. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or someone interested in sustainable farming, Junell's insights into the future of vertical farming and the role of AI in agriculture will captivate you. Join us for a conversation that blends technology, innovation, and a genuine love for making farming more efficient and accessible.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:21 Leonardo da Vinci's Influence on Junell8:17 Junell's Childhood Memories of Fresh Produce10:35 Junell's Journey into Vertical Farming15:53 GEIA's Evolution and Target Market18:46 GEIA's Technology and Automation Solutions22:21 Advanced Sensor Integration24:08 IoT Ecosystem in Growing Environments27:04 Data Overwhelm in IoT31:51 GEIA Hub Knowledge Sharing Community33:57 Integrating Robotics with GEIA41:07 Philosophical Approach to Plant Lighting AutomationTweetable Quotes"I always had to autodidact, always learning by myself. When I did that server, that was the first journey of me on the Internet. I decided to make my own servers and became a data host ever since.""We lived in Haifa, just 50 meters from the market, so fresh veggies and fruits were always near us. My father, an artist, had a small garden in the city where I planted tomatoes and cucumbers. Those early experiences shaped my love for being close to the source of food.""The toughest thing as a startup is the chicken and egg issue. We invest a lot of time and resources, but to build up further, especially in marketing, we need more investment. Finding investors is not easy these days."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://geia.aiLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/junell-/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

In this episode, I speak with Scott Massey, the CEO and co-founder of Anu, who returns to share his journey and the exciting developments since our last conversation. Scott dives into the evolution of Anu, formerly known as GrowPod, and how their mission to empower individuals and communities to produce pure, self-sufficient produce has sharpened over time. We discuss the challenges and rewards of attending industry events, the importance of making strategic decisions, and the impact of their innovative technology on both residential and commercial vertical farming.Scott also opens up about the rebranding process, the significance of their partnerships, and the future of modular, rapidly deployable growing systems. His insights into the food-as-medicine movement and the role of technology in enhancing food security are particularly compelling. Whether you're a startup founder, a tech enthusiast, or someone interested in sustainable agriculture, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice.Join us for a candid and inspiring conversation that highlights the intersection of technology, health, and sustainability.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:42 Consumer Experience Focus8:45 Core Theme10:44 Business Ideas14:26 Business Ideas18:14 Core Investment Thesis at Land Betterment22:18 Vision for Future Partnerships and Collaborations28:36 Integration of Nature in Dwellings30:08 Appliance Placement32:10 User Verticals36:02 Leadership Inspiration39:00 Indoor Agtech Events43:41 Indoor Agriculture InnovationTweetable Quotes"Anu is a health and wellness brand that seeks to empower individuals and communities to become self-sufficient in the production of pure produce.""We are not just a box that grows food and does so profitably and efficiently. We are a machine that makes health accessible through food that is produced.""The best technology is the one that the operator does not even know exists; it's so seamless into the user experience that it becomes non-obvious."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.growanu.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-massey-755419b9/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - www.getrevue.co/profile/verticalfarmingpodcast

Welcome, listeners! Join me in this bonus episode as I share some exciting updates and a sneak peek into what's coming up for Season 11 of the Vertical Farming Podcast. As we wrap up Season 10, I want to take a moment to recap some of the incredible conversations we've had with industry leaders like Felipe Hernandez of Hexagrow, Victor Kolkatar of Velis Farming, and many more. Each guest brought unique insights into the world of vertical farming, from urban aeroponics to the innovative use of microgreens. If you missed any episodes, this is your chance to catch up on the highlights and get inspired by the amazing work happening in our field.This is also a chance for me to express my gratitude for your support through the seasons thus far. Your support means the world to me, and I'm eager to hear your thoughts on the show. Over the next few weeks, I'll be setting up interviews with listeners to get your feedback and learn more about what you enjoy and what we can improve. If you're interested in chatting, shoot me an email at harry@verticalfarmingpodcast.com with the subject line "Let's Chat." Stay tuned for more great conversations and thank you for being part of this journey!Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways01:00 Recap of Season Ten Guests08:52 Roster of Confirmed Guests for Season ElevenConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - www.getrevue.co/profile/verticalfarmingpodcast

In this episode, I speak with Chris Corkery, the founder and CEO of Hundred Acre, who shares his journey from being a chef in New York City to starting a vertical farm in Milwaukee. Chris talks about the early mornings at farmers' markets, the respect he developed for fresh produce, and the realization that led him to bring farming into urban areas. His passion for food and community shines through as he discusses the challenges and rewards of creating a year-round urban farm that not only provides fresh produce but also creates jobs and educational opportunities.Chris also opens up about the personal experiences that shaped his love for food, from cooking with his mom as a child to working in high-end restaurants. He reflects on the importance of community in his work and how his farm aims to serve and connect with the local area. Chris's candid insights into the realities of running a vertical farm, the obstacles he faced, and the innovative solutions he implemented make this conversation both inspiring and informative.Join us as we explore the intersection of food, community, and sustainability with someone who's truly passionate about making a difference.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:52 Chris Corkery's Culinary Journey12:01 Running a Farm 15:02 The Restaurant Experience18:24 Community Building Through Farming23:59 Communicating Value in Indoor FarmingTweetable Quotes"The first thing that occurred out of that was really the understanding and respect for the products themselves, because you were trying to get the best, and in order to do that, you had to learn what was the best, and you had to try to get it before someone else did.""Food inherently brings us together. We all got to eat, and we tend to like to do it together. For thousands of years, I don't think that's going to change anytime soon.""Just because you open a giant lab-type facility that has a controlled environment doesn't mean that it all just works at the push of a button. It's still plants and people. So remember, it takes people to feed people, and there's no perfect science to working with people."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://hundred-acre.org/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-corkery-ba72b54/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hundredacre_mke/?hl=enConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - www.getrevue.co/profile/verticalfarmingpodcast

In this episode, I speak with Stefan Hey, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer at vGreens. We reminisce about our initial meeting at Vertifarm in Dortmund and the fascinating dinner conversations that led to a deeper connection. Stefan shares his journey from a childhood dream of becoming a gardener to his current role, where he combines his passion for plants with cutting-edge technology to revolutionize indoor farming. We delve into the specifics of vGreens' focus on strawberries, exploring the challenges and innovations involved in growing this delicate fruit efficiently and sustainably.Stefan's insights into the intricacies of strawberry cultivation are truly enlightening. He explains how vGreens is not just about growing strawberries but about creating a scalable model that can be applied to other fruits in the future. We also discuss the importance of R&D, the role of their farm management software, and the exciting prospects of expanding into the Asian market with a new facility in Singapore.Stefan's dedication to sustainable food production and his collaborative approach with partners and engineering companies make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways7:38 Entrepreneurship Journey10:51 Core Theme16:33 Onboarding Process with New Partners21:55 Future Outlook27:19 Support for Indoor Farming31:42 Diversity in Strawberry Varieties33:58 Expansion to Singapore for Year-Round Production38:09 Reintroduction of Fresh Produce42:14 Indoor Farming and Future BerriesTweetable Quotes"I started to study agricultural biology at university, where it became more and more clear about how huge challenges that are facing agriculture, and specifically the sustainability aspect of how we grow food.""One thing to realize is that the science matters and the plant is in the center of everything we do. That is probably one of the important messages that I would say is putting the plant in the center.""The important thing about a system like DAP running smoothly is that man and machine becomes a unit and sort of works together, and software builds that bridge so that the machine is working together with the human to grow these crops and helps the human to make those growing decisions, to have a productive crop over time."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://v-greens.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hey-ba9099130/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

In this episode, I speak with Kendra Armstrong, the Co-Founder and CEO of Crop Convergence. Kendra shares her journey from growing up on a family farm in Indiana to becoming a startup founder in the agtech industry. We dive into her early experiences on the farm, her decision to pursue plant breeding, and how she eventually found her passion in creating decision-making tools for farmers.Kendra's story is filled with relatable moments, like shoveling hog manure as her first job and the humorous family joke about getting a "real job." Her insights into the challenges and rewards of farming, both traditional and vertical, are truly enlightening.Kendra also opens up about the realities of running a startup, from bootstrapping and calling in favors to the importance of honest communication with farmers. She emphasizes the need for tech solutions that genuinely benefit growers, rather than just being another shiny tool. Our conversation touches on the importance of listening to farmers' needs, the value of building resilient and efficient tech, and the collaborative spirit within the agtech community.If you're interested in the intersection of technology and agriculture, or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode is a must-listen.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways4:25 Work Ethic in Farming5:57 Transition to Computational Tools in Plant Breeding9:30 Starting Crop Convergence10:50 Kendra Armstrong's Transition to Entrepreneurship13:55 Core Focus of Crop Convergence15:20 Vertical Farming Requirements20:22 Indoor Farming Journey29:41 CEO Transition32:00 Making Tech Tools Useful for Farmers38:41 Goals for Crop ConvergenceTweetable Quotes"My first job was shoveling hog manure out of a hog barn. It does provide a different standpoint. I think my personal feeling around value and the value I bring to society is so much associated with the farm.""I think that sometimes I think back, and I'm like, what was I thinking at the time? I was in the truck with my dad when I was 16 years old. He asked, 'Kendra, do you want to farm?' I said, 'No, I don't want to farm. It's too stressful.' And now, here I am, a startup founder.""We build decision-making tools for growers and farmers, enabling them to better understand the overall scope of their decisions and how those decisions interact with each other. Our goal is to provide as much information as we can in a simple, quantified, and straightforward manner."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.cropconvergence.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendra-armstrong-a9109322/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

In this episode, I speak with Max Knight and Eric Roth, the Co-founders of Rooted Robotics. We dive into their journey from meeting at a large-scale vertical farm to starting their own company focused on affordable automation solutions for small and medium-sized farms. Max shares how his passion for robotics and engineering led to the creation of Rooted Robotics, while Eric discusses his extensive experience in the Agtech space and how it has shaped their approach to solving labor challenges in vertical farming.We also explore the evolution of their business model, the importance of understanding unit economics, and the innovative products they are developing to help farmers increase efficiency and profitability. Max and Eric's insights into the industry, combined with their genuine desire to support and collaborate with other farmers, make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of vertical farming and agricultural technology.Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the practical solutions and real-world experiences driving success in the Agtech industry.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520 Key Takeaways5:46 Lessons from Kalera15:30 Microgreens Seeder Innovation19:43 Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Farms24:46 Challenges Faced by Small Farm Owners31:02 Maximilian and Eric's Comprehensive Farming Business Insights35:05 AI and Robotics in Agriculture38:27 Computer Vision in Vertical Farming47:01 Balancing Custom Projects and Core Products51:22 Advice for New Growers in the IndustryTweetable Quotes"We saw that labor is one of the biggest operating expenses of these facilities. There needs to be a middle ground where you do a lot of automation, but more affordably.""The biggest lesson learned, especially when scaling, is understanding you might not have to automate your entire system on day one, but you need to plan for it.""We need more collaboration and openness in the industry. A rising tide lifts all ships, and we need to create more positive stories about successful businesses."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.rootedrobotics.com/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@RootedRoboticsInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/rootedrobotics/Max's LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/maximilianknightEric's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdroth/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

In this episode, I speak with Jesper Hansen, the Chief Commercial Officer at YesHealth. Jesper shares his unique journey from studying history in Denmark to becoming a key player in the vertical farming industry in Taiwan. We discuss his transition into agriculture, driven by a desire to explore the world and a chance encounter with his now-wife's family business. Jesper's story is a testament to the unexpected paths life can take and the opportunities that arise from them.Jesper also delves into the challenges and successes of YesHealth, a company that has become a leader in vertical farming in Asia. He explains the importance of building large-scale farms and the company's strategy of partnering with local entrepreneurs to ensure the success of these projects. Jesper's insights into the cultural differences and the evolving landscape of vertical farming in Asia provide a fascinating look at how this innovative industry is developing globally. Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the potential of vertical farming to transform the way we think about food production.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:03:53: The Value of Studying History in Business00:05:13: Cultural Differences Between Denmark and China00:19:31: Importance of Collaborative Partnerships00:21:29: Differences in Vertical Farming Perspectives Between Asia and the West00:27:28: Disrupting Traditional Views on Produce Pricing00:31:32: Increasing Awareness of YesHealth in the West00:37:30: Timeline for Setting Up a Vertical Farm00:39:52: Growing Awareness and Conferences in Asia00:41:57: Challenges in Aligning Partners and Teams00:44:26: Family Involvement in YesHealthTweetable Quotes"In Denmark, because I'm from a rural area, we are very individualized, so we have a lot of private space. In China, it's the opposite. It's all about the collective. You don't look at the needs of the person first; you look at the needs of the group.""I think the industry in Asia is coming back, but it's at a slightly slower pace. The initial excitement there was before is not there, but I don't think that's necessarily a bad thing because one of the things that went wrong in the first iteration in the West was that it was too much excitement, maybe too much money and push towards unrealistic goals in the short term." "I feel like I could send the design drawing of our farm to anyone in the industry. First of all, they have their own design, so they wouldn't just adopt ours. Even if they did, they wouldn't know how to run the farm because there's so much more to it."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.yeshealthgroup.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/yeshealth-group/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/yeshealthgroupTwitter - https://x.com/YesHealthGroupConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter -

In this episode, I speak with Edwin McClure, CEO of Bio520, who shares his journey from finance to the world of indoor agriculture. Edward's story is one of passion and perseverance, moving from Miami to San Diego, and eventually diving into the agtech space. We discuss his background in finance and how it shaped his approach to business, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and profitability. Edward's love for entrepreneurship shines through as he talks about his early ventures and the lessons learned along the way, making this conversation both insightful and relatable for anyone interested in business and innovation.Edwin also delves into the specifics of Bio 520, a product developed in Japan that has shown promising results in the indoor ag industry, particularly in cannabis cultivation. He explains the meticulous process of finding the right product and the importance of having a solid team to bring it to market. We touch on the challenges and rewards of starting a new company, the significance of collaboration in the agtech space, and the exciting potential of new technologies like AI and robotics. Join us as we discuss the intersection of finance, entrepreneurship, and agriculture, and it offers valuable insights into the future of indoor farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:06:16: Early Interest in Business and Finance00:10:17: Importance of Financial Discipline in Business00:12:32: Discovery and Development of Bio 52000:18:44: Incremental Improvements in Agriculture00:23:21: Experience at Indoor Ag-Con00:26:27: Ideal Clients for Bio 52000:30:21: Building a Team and Hiring Strategy00:36:43: Key Decisions as a CEO00:39:36: Future Focus and Industry Trends00:42:55: Final Thoughts and Collaboration in the IndustryTweetable Quotes"I've always been interested in business, you know, small companies, and there's nothing more American to me than some guy or woman putting it on the line, blood, sweat, and tears, and trying to create something out of nothing.""Until you have had to meet a payroll and not pay yourself because there wasn't quite enough money for both, you're not really an entrepreneur.""You can't do everything well. If you can focus and do one thing really well, you can make money, and then you can start looking at this other stuff. But if you try to climb all five mountains at once, you're going to fall off and die."Resources MentionedWebsite - http://bio520usa.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/101683174/admin/feed/posts/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bio520usa/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -

In this episode, I speak with Rick Langille, the founder and CEO of Harvest Today. Rick's journey from growing up on a farm in Manitoba to becoming a serial entrepreneur in the manufacturing and electronics industries is nothing short of inspiring. We dive deep into his passion for vertical farming and how his diverse background has uniquely positioned him to innovate in this space. Rick shares candidly about the challenges and triumphs of building Harvest Today, emphasizing the importance of nutrient-dense food and the impact it can have on communities. His stories of sailing around the world and witnessing food insecurity firsthand add a rich layer to his mission of making fresh, healthy food accessible to all.Rick's warmth and genuine dedication to his work shine through as he discusses the intricacies of the Harvest Wall, a vertical farming solution designed to maximize space and efficiency. He talks about the importance of building a strong team, the lessons he's learned from his mentors, and the values that drive him. Whether you're a seasoned professional in the vertical farming industry or just curious about innovative ways to grow food, this episode is packed with insights and practical advice.Join us for a conversation that not only explores the technical aspects of vertical farming but also delves into the heart and soul behind Harvest Today.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:03:03: Transition from Farming to Manufacturing00:04:25: Sailing Adventure and Realization of Food Insecurity00:05:42: The Concept and Development of Harvest Today00:09:59: Nutrient Density and Flavor in Hydroponics00:11:40: The Importance of Fresh, Nutrient-Dense Food00:19:13: Building a Strong Team and Company Culture00:24:24: Challenges and Opportunities in Scaling Up00:32:28: The Catalyst for Starting Harvest Today00:36:14: Engineering and Design of the Harvest Wall00:42:40: Community Impact and Local Food Production00:45:28: Harvest Today App and Technology IntegrationTweetable Quotes"I didn't want to be Rick had a family, had a business, and died. I'd like to think that people will look back at Harvest Today and know that we're not copiers. We don't. I'm not. If it was just to create another NFT channel system, I'm out. Like, that's not me. Right. Because I always believe that there's a better way to do things. It just might not. And not necessarily. Well, no, I am going to say better, because I'm going to hold up my flag and tell you that I really do believe that the harvest wall was designed, and we say engineered by farmers. For farmers.""Any leafy green or herbs can lose up to or more than 50% of its nutrient value within 72 hours. Then to lose 100% takes ten days. The average number of days it takes for a harvested farm or harvested vegetable, leafy greens or herbs to get to a grocery store shelf is ten. So that means everything that we're basically eating, be it any retailer that you're talking about, the value, the nutrient value of the food is zero.""Business is people. It's not about me. And that took me a while to figure that out. Certainly, I think the older we get, the ego gets smaller. Right. Hopefully, you know, and that's I think that. I hope that's the case for myself as I've gotten more gray hair. The ability to understand that if we build a really super strong team and we listen to them. Right. So. And I do listen to my people all the time."Resources MentionedWebsite -

In this episode, I speak with Matt Lohr, Virginia's Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry, who brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for agriculture. Matt shares his journey as a fifth-generation farmer from the Shenandoah Valley and how his early experiences on the farm with his grandfather shaped his love for the land and conservation. We dive into his varied career, from local public service roles to leading the Natural Resources Conservation Service at the USDA, and how these experiences have fueled his commitment to supporting the agricultural industry. Matt's stories about preserving his family's farming legacy and the importance of connecting people to the source of their food are truly heartwarming.We also explore Virginia's ambitious goals in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) space, driven by Governor Youngkin's vision to make the state a leader in indoor farming. Matt discusses the strategic advantages Virginia offers, from its geographical location to state investments and educational initiatives. He highlights the exciting developments in CEA, including innovative technologies and partnerships that are transforming the industry. Whether you're a seasoned farmer, an urban dweller curious about where your food comes from, or someone interested in the future of agriculture, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the past, present, and future of farming in Virginia.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:05:51: Importance of Local Food and Indoor Farming00:09:39: Becoming Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry00:13:35: Virginia's Commitment to Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)00:21:34: Diverse CEA Companies in Virginia00:27:08: Tough Questions and Economic Challenges00:29:37: Energy Demands in CEA00:29:55: Message to CEA Leaders and InnovatorTweetable Quotes"I'm a fifth-generation farmer in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, which is one of the breadbaskets of the country when it comes to ag production. Rockingham County is one of the top 30 or 40 counties in the country for ag production. Farming and agriculture have been my life. As a young child, I remember my earliest memories were walking alongside my grandfather on the farm and learning a love of the land and conservation. We have conservation easements on our farm to ensure my kids can be the sixth generation. Agriculture is in my life, and every part of my career over the last 30 years has been directly tied back to supporting the agricultural industry.""I grew up in a family where public service was stressed from day one. My father was very active with church and the Ruittian club, a service club community. My parents were active in the volunteer rescue squad and fire department for their entire career. I grew up around people who served. My first chance to serve was as a state international officer for the FFA organization, Future Farmers of America. I took a year out of college for both the state and then another year out as a national officer, dedicating my time for two years serving the ag industry, speaking in schools and communities, and lobbying for agriculture. I learned pretty early on that I wanted to have a career in advocacy and public service.""We have around 20 CEA companies in Virginia, and I've visited all of them. They all have their own secret sauce, whether it's a vertical farm or a greenhouse, the type of lighting or automation, or the types of products they're producing. The technology is incredible. I'm very excited to travel to Amsterdam for Greentech in June. The...

In this episode, I speak with Shlomy Raziel, the visionary behind Growth Tech, joining us all the way from Israel. Shlomy shares his deeply rooted connection to agriculture, tracing back to his childhood in a Kibbutz and his family's pioneering spirit in farming. His journey from managing large-scale agricultural projects to founding Growth Tech is not just a career path but a continuation of a legacy. We dive into how his company is innovating in the vertical farming space, particularly focusing on fruiting vegetables, a challenging yet rewarding venture that sets them apart in the industry. Shlomy's insights into the evolution of vertical farming are grounded in practicality and a clear vision for the future. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the industry to overcome common challenges like energy costs, climate control, and labor. His approach is refreshingly open, advocating for shared progress over competition. This conversation isn't just about the technicalities of indoor farming; it's a testament to how a passion rooted in tradition can foster innovation that might just change the world of agriculture. Join us to hear how Shlomy Raziel is not only navigating but also shaping the future of farming with thoughtful technology and a community-focused mindset.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:03:38 - The Idea and Vision Behind Growth Tech 00:07:11 - Experiences in Kibbutz and Early Innovations 00:13:44 - Changes and Adaptations in Business Model Over Time 00:18:36 - Lessons Learned and Growth as a Leader 00:23:08 - Perspective on the Vertical Farming Industry 00:36:04 - Message to Peers in the Indoor Farming SpaceTweetable Quotes"I was born and raised in a Kibbutz, just ten minutes from my office. From childhood, I was deeply involved in agriculture, starting with open field orchards and later moving on to greenhouses and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) projects after university." "Big companies do great work with technology for the mainstream, but there's a lack of solutions for tailor-made projects. I found a niche in creating specific, precise solutions not just for mainstream agriculture but for unique, smaller-scale projects that big companies overlook." "The future of vertical farming should involve more collaboration. We need to establish forums and associations to share knowledge and technology openly. Improving key aspects like lighting, HVAC systems, and reducing manpower through automation benefits everyone in the industry, not just individual companies."Resources MentionedWesbite - https://grow-tec.com/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@grow-tec8331 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/grow-tec Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/growtecc Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/grow.tec.verticalfarming/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/GrowtecRPConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn -

In this episode, I speak with Kaylee South, an Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist for Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) at Virginia Tech. Kaylee shares her journey from a rural upbringing, where her passion for horticulture was nurtured by family and educators, to her current role where she combines research with teaching the next generation of horticulturists. We dive into how her work not only involves growing plants but also exploring innovative agricultural methods and improving plant resilience through scientific research. Kaylee's story is a testament to the impact of early exposure to agriculture and the profound influence of mentors.Our conversation also explores the broader implications of CEA in revitalizing urban spaces and enhancing educational programs. Kaylee highlights the potential of vertical farming to transform underutilized buildings into productive agricultural sites, offering fresh perspectives on sustainable urban development. She emphasizes the importance of industry-academia collaboration in advancing CEA technologies and practices. This episode is packed with insights not just about plant science but also about the evolving role of agriculture in addressing contemporary challenges. Whether you're an industry professional or simply curious about the future of farming, Kaylee's experiences and insights underscore the dynamic nature of agricultural science and its critical role in shaping sustainable futures.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:06:27 - Application of Research in Real-world Settings00:13:34 - Involvement in CEA Summit and Indoor Ag-Con00:14:08 - Differences Between CEA Summit East and Other Conferences00:29:10 - Interest and Opportunities in Vertical Farming00:35:23 - Future Research Directions and Challenges00:39:15 - Increasing Interest in CEA Among StudentsTweetable Quotes"I grew up helping my parents and grandparents in their gardens, which sparked my passion for horticulture. My high school agriculture teacher, Mr. Minyard, particularly encouraged me by involving me in greenhouse work, which solidified my love for working with plants.""My dissertation research involved using beneficial bacteria to improve plant defense against pathogens, specifically targeting botrytis cinerea, a common issue in greenhouse production. This research aimed to explore biocontrol agents and biostimulants to enhance plant growth and disease resistance.""Vertical farming offers unique opportunities, especially in urban settings where traditional farming isn't feasible. It's exciting to see interest from various sectors, including education, where vertical farms are used as tools for teaching and engaging students in agriculture and science."Resources MentionedTwitter - https://twitter.com/south_kayleeLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylee-south/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook -...

In this episode, I speak with David Flynn, Vice President of Business Development at AmplifiedAg, and what a journey it's been! David shares his transition from military service to the world of vertical farming, and it's a testament to the power of mission-driven work. His experiences in Afghanistan, witnessing firsthand the struggles and triumphs of local agriculture, have fueled his passion for bringing fresh food to those in need. It's not every day you meet someone who's as dedicated to making a difference as David is.We dive into the nitty-gritty of AmplifiedAg's technology, from their propagation containers to their high-yield production units. David's insights into the challenges of energy costs and the need for industry-wide collaboration are eye-opening. It's clear that this isn't just about growing lettuce; it's about community, sustainability, and tackling food insecurity head-on. If you're curious about the future of controlled environment agriculture and the people who are pushing its boundaries, you won't want to miss this conversation. David's story is a reminder that with the right technology and a lot of heart, we can make a real impact, one container farm at a time.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:03:55: Transition from Military to Agriculture Technology00:06:02: The Evolution of AmplifiedAg and Vertical Roots00:10:53: Impact of COVID-19 on Business Operations00:16:23: Observations on the Growth of the C EA Industry00:21:20: AmplifiedAg's Current Size and Product Offerings00:34:51: The Importance of Industry Transparency and CollaborationTweetable Quotes"I don't believe in coincidences, per se. When I moved to Charleston, I met Don Taylor, who's the founder of our company, AmplifiedAg. He painted a vision of marrying technology with agriculture, trying to do good things with technology and agriculture, promoting businesses, job development, and providing fresh food to people in need.""The biggest conversion we made was from an Aeroponics system to a Nutrient Film Technique system using crop king gutters in a stacked formation inside of our containers. That really was a game changer for us.""The core mission of the company was to provide safe access to fresh food globally. We're working with foundations across the country, non-governmental organizations trying to solve food insecurity. We're driven right now to look for opportunities to be a system integrator, to bring food security, help leverage food security for people in need."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://amplifiedaginc.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amplifiedaginc/Twitter - https://twitter.com/amplifiedagincLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplifiedagYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@amplifiedagConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter -

In this episode, I speak with Whit Allen, the charismatic CEO of SpectraGrow, as we dive into a world where the rhythm of music intertwines with the innovation of agriculture. It's a conversation that takes us from energy of DJing to the vibrant greenery of vertical farms. We reminisce about our days behind the decks and reveal how those experiences have given us a unique tempo for tackling the professional challenges we face today. Whit brings a refreshing perspective on the journey from spinning records to advocating for clean technology in Washington D.C., and how every step has influenced the birth and growth of SpectraGrow.The power of collaboration shines through in our chat, from the influence of mastermind groups to the shared problem-solving that's steering the industry towards sustainable success. You'll hear firsthand about the nitty-gritty of lighting innovation, the significance of strategic planning for farm setups, and the camaraderie that's sprouting among agri-tech leaders in Colorado and beyond. Join me for an episode that celebrates the progress and growth at the heart of urban farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Connecting Music and Agriculture09:38 Career Evolution and Clean Tech Lobbying16:19 Origin and Ideal Clients of SpectraGrow27:53 LED Innovation and Energy Efficiency31:34 Collaboration and Growth in Vertical Farming44:18 Power of Mastermind GroupsTweetable Quotes"When I took a course called Truth, Love, and Marketing here in Boulder, one of the exercises was to describe your creative process. It was so easy to describe my creative process with DJing and music, and then I saw the parallels in how I bring that creative energy to launching an entrepreneurial company. How we market, how we sell, how we talk about what we do—it all has roots in that creative process from music.""We often make recommendations to relay out a farm based on lighting, and we show that if we reorganize the farm in a certain way, we could get much better performance out of the lighting strategy. My advice is always to bring us in as early as possible in the planning process because our ability to add value decreases the later we're brought into the project.""The intuition is a huge part of decision-making in business, and it's a weird word to use because people in business like spreadsheets, they like numbers, they like analysis. But at the end of the day, you have to interpret the data, and there's a point where you've got to trust other sensors that might not be so obvious that you could put on a spreadsheet, but are important things to consider."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.spectragrow.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/spectragrow_incFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/spectragrowLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/spectragrowYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@spectragrowConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn -

In this episode, I speak with Katherine Soll , a powerhouse of knowledge and change in the realm of urban agriculture. She takes us through her inspiring journey from her New York City upbringing to her influential role as the founder and CEO of Teens for Food Justice.With a nod to Agritechture's Henry Gordon- Smith for his support and insight, Katherine and I delve into the transformative world of hydroponic farms, the importance of food equity, and the incredible shift from food deserts to the more nuanced concept of food apartheid. It's a conversation that's not only about the growth of plants but also about the growth of young minds and communities.We really dig into what it takes to cultivate an organization that stands firm against the winds of challenge. Katherine 's narrative is a testament to the resilience needed to lead such impactful work, and her experiences offer a treasure trove of wisdom on nurturing the next generation of leaders.By integrating technology with hands-on education, Katherine 's team is planting the seeds for a greener, more equitable NYC, and beyond. It's a tale of hope, hard work, and the harvest that comes from truly rooting for change.Join us as we explore the greening of urban spaces and the empowerment of youth in a movement that's redefining our relationship with food and community.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Growing Up in NYC10:25 Evolution of Teens for Food Justice17:26 Building Resilient Community Farming Organization25:09 Urban Farming Impact and Student Success30:33 Expanding Urban Agriculture and Food Access35:46 Letting Go and Trusting Your Team41:19 Navigating Mission Creep in Vertical Farming46:15 Teen Food Justice Organization PromotionTweetable Quotes"One of the things that was really amazing about growing up in New York, I think, was the level of independence that you have when you're really very young. Being able to walk to school by yourself, go places with your friends by yourself, that independence gives you a perspective on the world that's really different than when you grow up in a car culture.""I think that service is an incredible way to get people to look outside of their own self and their own interests and to understand that we're only going to thrive if we're all thriving together.""I think that if you never have the experience of really needing to show that level of vulnerability and see that you're gonna survive, that yeah, you miss something. I think that's a really important honing process that has served me. It was extremely hard, but again, I try to approach things by saying what is the beneficial lying underneath this thing that didn't go the way I planned."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://teensforfoodjustice.org/Twitter - https://twitter.com/tffjinitiativeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/teensforfoodjustice/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/katherine.soll/Linkedin -

In this episode, I speak with Rick Vanzura, CEO of Freight Farms, who takes us on a captivating journey from his days in the retail trenches to becoming a trailblazer in the vertical farming industry. Rick's transformation from working with household names like Borders Group and Panera Bread to redefining local food systems with Freight Farms is nothing short of inspiring. He generously shares his Bostonian roots and the pivotal encounters that shaped his business acumen, particularly a chance meeting with Jeff Bezos that reshaped his view on potential versus present limitations. It's a tale that's as much about personal evolution as it is about the growing promise of urban agriculture.Dive into the world of vertical farming as Rick lays out the complexities of supply chain management and the innovative strides Freight Farms is making in controlled environment agriculture. Our discussion navigates through the importance of industry collaboration, learning from mistakes, and creating a culture that empowers and educates. Rick's blueprint for success isn't just about thriving in business; it's about building a resilient and sustainable future for food production. So, if you're curious about the inner workings of vertical farming and how leaders like Rick are steering this burgeoning industry, you'll want to tune in. This conversation is an eye-opener for anyone interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship and environmental stewardship.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Innovation and Collaboration in Vertical Farming09:48 Collaboration and Progress in Farming15:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Vertical Farming26:35 Vertical Farming Industry Trends and Leadership32:11 Leadership in Vertical Farming CollaborationTweetable Quotes"We don't inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children, and here's our chance to play our role in paying back a little for our kids, which in so many ways I think is important.""The right model is definitely going to be co-opetition. We have to recognize we all need to develop and protect stuff that makes us unique and special, but at the same time, we're all going to benefit from things like common R&D and industry standards.""If you really focus on where that huge opportunity lies, that was a big part of what brought me to Freight Farms. Understanding how big the potential could be, I never again am going to allow myself to be short sighted and overly analytical about where something is today versus thinking about what can be in the future."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.freightfarms.com/Twitter - https://twitter.com/FreightFarmsInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/freightfarms/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/freightfarms/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/freight-farms/Youtube -

In this episode, I speak with Alex Babich, who's pioneering the agricultural tech revolution with his startup, Nuravine. We dive into Alex's childhood, his journey through self-education and college, and the formative experiences that led him to combine technology with sustainable farming. Alex's vision of AI-driven vertical farms is a game-changer for the future of agriculture, and it was an absolute pleasure to get an insider's look at how he's bringing this vision to life.Hearing Alex detail the steps of Nuravine's evolution, from its inception during a college competition to the resilient growth during COVID, truly showcases the spirit of entrepreneurship. His insights into the fusion of computer engineering with agriculture and the potential of AI to revolutionize farming practices are inspiring.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Growing Up in NYC and Carmel08:11 Future City With Vertical Farming12:39 The Journey of Nuravine22:41 Choosing Between Pump Systems in Agriculture26:39 Cannabis Entrepreneurship and Pump Systems29:42 Building Nuravine35:38 The Advanced and Flexible Dosing System41:15 Continuous Nutrient Dosing in Farming Benefits45:56 Expanding Product Development and Funding Opportunities54:52 AI and the Future of Farming01:00:11 Connecting With NuravineTweetable Quotes"I love learning math, I want to understand it all, and I started to have this vision of, I really want to know math because I want to like look outside and I want to see equations, I want to see the world in a mathematical way.""There are enough resources on earth for everyone to have a very high standard of living and in a certain sense, the monetary system can get in the way of that.""They have a competition where you could either win 25,000 or 50,000 dollars. And I went to him and I asked, do you want to start a business together?"Resources MentionedNuravine Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nuravine/Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alex.babich/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-babich-nuravine/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@nuravine7984Website - https://nuravine.com/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

In this episode, I speak with Daniel Plant, the inspiring mind behind Plant Dynamics, as we delve into his remarkable transition from the disciplined life of the Canadian Armed Forces to becoming a consultant in the agtech space. Daniel's unique journey has not only shaped a resilient work ethic but has also carved out an innovative path in the world of modern farming. Through his stories, we uncover how embracing a global perspective can significantly influence both personal growth and professional endeavors. It's not every day you meet someone who can seamlessly merge military precision with the dynamic needs of an agtech consultancy, and Daniel's experiences offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.We'll navigate the intricate transformation of Plant Dynamics from its early days to its current role as a guiding light in agtech strategy. Daniel generously shares the hurdles and triumphs encountered along the way, including adapting to the startup culture and confronting challenges like the global pandemic and shifting supply chains. As we explore the future of CEA, Daniel's insights into the critical importance of data and clear business communication illuminate the path forward for the industry. This conversation is a must-listen for those curious about the intersection of agriculture, technology, and business strategy, as we connect the dots between resilience, innovation, and the drive to revolutionize farming practices.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Exploring Worldview and Career Choices16:13 The Evolution of Plant Dynamics25:10 Shift Towards Detailed Microeconomics in AgTech36:13 Challenges and Opportunities in CEA Development44:56 Communication Challenges in the CEA Industry52:14 Advancing CEA Infrastructure for Fresh ProduceTweetable Quotes"What pays for the nation's bills is the earnings of the people. And if you do all kinds of analysis on this question different places, different points of time what determines GDP per capita you will find that the most powerful explanatory variable is the cost of extracting energy.""Now I am seeing a big shift from scale to super detailed microeconomics and unit economics... there's now, I think, full appreciation that you need to come in and have some kind of a corporate structure around your production facility, which includes sales and marketing and should include offtake agreements, such that you have a business plan that is more than just a design of a facility before you begin.""I want to make economics more actionable because it is very helpful. It can clarify strategy. But how you bridge that gap, to take something that feels so esoteric and far-flung from the immediate problems people are trying to address, and communicate it in a simple way that it can be adopted that's always a challenge."Resources MentionedLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danplant/Email - danielplant@me.comConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram -

In this eye-opening episode, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with the hydroponic maestro himself, Joe Swartz. Joe brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, drawing from nearly four decades of experience in the realm of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA). With Joe's guidance, we journey through the evolution of farming, bursting myths like bubbles and paving a clear path through the oft-misunderstood landscape of hydroponic agriculture. He shares his rich history, from traditional farming roots to the forefront of agricultural innovation, and reminds us that while the tools may change, the core principles of good farming remain steadfast. Joe's candid insights and personal anecdotes truly bring the conversation to life, offering a treasure trove of green wisdom that's both grounding and revolutionary.Diving into the nitty-gritty of indoor vertical farming, Joe unravels the complexities with the finesse of a seasoned expert. He doesn't shy away from the hard truths, confronting the economic and logistical challenges head-on and providing a balanced view that blends caution with optimism. As Joe unveils AmHydro's cutting-edge contributions—think AI, machine learning, and automation—it's hard not to feel a surge of excitement for the future of farming. Yet, he encourages a healthy skepticism and the importance of validating technology's promise, ensuring we remain rooted in practical, successful practices. By the end of our talk, I was left feeling incredibly inspired and humbled by the depth of knowledge Joe imparted. This is an episode brimming with valuable takeaways for anyone curious about the future of sustainable agriculture. So join us as we cultivate not just crops, but a flourishing community of knowledge-seekers in this dynamic field.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 The Journey of a Hydroponic Farmer14:00 Myths and Mistakes in CEA Industry23:00 Challenges and Myths of Vertical Farming26:34 Cyclical Indoor Farming Technologies30:57 AmHydro's Tools for Growers45:41 Indoor Farming Tips and Wisdom53:29 Social Media and YouTube for AmHydroTweetable Quotes"The process that makes up traditional farming are no different... We're using different tools, but the process is exactly the same.""The idea of CEA controlled environment agriculture really, again, it's not about technology. It's about taking the equipment, the tools, the methods, the technologies that we have available and farming with them. Agriculture.""We're not trying to develop a technology and say, hey, buy our technology because it's really cool. We actually wanna come to the industry and say, here's a tool that we've developed based on your needs, based on where your pain points are."Resources MentionedEmail - Joe@AmHydro.comTwitter - https://twitter.com/HydroConsultant Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/joeswartz1325/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-swartz-5549331a/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@AmericanHydroponicsConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn -

This week I speak with Viktor Kulcsar, Co-Founder of Veles Farming. From a childhood in post-Soviet Slovakia to challenging cultural norms and diving into entrepreneurship, Victor's story is one of ambition. Victor opens up about the early struggles of being a young entrepreneur in a region with little support for startups, the invaluable lessons from mentors, and the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge – all while forging a path in the exciting world of saffron cultivation.Ever wondered what it takes to bring a luxury spice like saffron to your table, and how authenticity and quality can be guaranteed? Victor provides a fascinating look into the meticulous process of educating the market, navigating the challenges of direct-to-consumer sales, and building trust within high-end culinary circles. He shares industry insights on sourcing, the potential of indoor farming, and the cultural significance of this ancient crop. We discuss transparency in the supply chain and the value of traditional knowledge blended with cutting-edge cultivation techniques.As we look to the future of vertical farming with Victor, he talks about the importance of effective leadership and fostering a culture of openness to tackling significant challenges like capital expenditure and energy costs. Victor's enthusiasm for the potential of indoor agriculture – from enhancing flavors in gastronomy to meeting pharmaceutical industry standards – is contagious, offering listeners a compelling glimpse into not only the present landscape but also the boundless possibilities for growth and innovation in CEA.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Entrepreneurship and Vertical Farming Journey07:20 Learning and Collaboration in Business Growth14:28 Education and Marketing of Saffron Challenges21:18 Saffron Farm CEO Discusses Industry Insights29:20 Relationships in Business37:36 Challenges and Growth in Vertical Farming43:46 The Future of Vertical FarmingTweetable Quotes“I need to get off my competitiveness in some way and I found business, a way to where I can do this."“It's very hard in the beginning to get it running. But I think when you get the first results in the first section and then it's so snowballs into a big thing."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://velesfarming.com/Email - viktor.kulcsar@velesfarming.comLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/viktor-kulcsar-089b02175Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs -

Embark on a remarkable adventure with Felipe Hernandez, the visionary Founder and CEO of Hexagro, as he chronicles his evolution from an industrial designer in Colombia to a trailblazer in Milan's growing vertical farming industry. Felipe's inspiring tale captures the essence of innovation and determination, guiding us through the creation of Hexagro—an endeavor to democratize aeroponic technology. His story is a testament to the power of marrying design with practical agricultural solutions, and his Hexagro platform stands as a beacon of urban farming potential, inviting city dwellers to reconnect with nature through the simplicity of Poty and the sophistication of Clovy, both models with specific uses.As Felipe unfolds the nuances of Hexagro's user-centric approach, you'll be captivated by the role of biomimicry in design and how it breathes life into urban farming. The conversation extends into the digital realm, highlighting the integral companion app that serves as a gardener's best friend, offering a chatbot, plant care tips, and delightful recipes. With an open platform philosophy, Felipe emphasizes the importance of local resources and community input in refining Hexagro's offerings, painting a picture of an ecosystem where growth is nurtured by the collective genius of its participants.The finale of our journey with Felipe does not shy away from the grit and resilience that define startup success, especially in the face of the pandemic's adversities. He shares candid insights about the power of mentorship, the intricacies of fundraising in the Italian startup landscape, and the significance of cultivating a community-driven growth model. Join us and discover how you can contribute to a movement that's reshaping our relationship with the food we eat and the communities we cherish.Thanks to Our SponsorsBio520Indoor AgConAgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 From Industrial Design to Vertical Farming15:33 Biomimicry, Vertical Farming, and Product Development31:17 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience36:48 Vertical Farming Industry and Its Challenges45:11 Join Our Urban Farming CommunityTweetable Quotes"We shouldn't try to disconnect people from farming, because we have been doing it since thousands of years.""It's a huge potential of impact that agriculture has because it's a holistic topic. It regards the side engineering, agronomy, biology, sociology, economics, everything. So for me, it's super stimulating to learn of so different topics and see how they can change and how they have impacted societies.""Since billions of years, there is a complex, very smart designer finding solutions to solve problems, to adapt to different needs. These organisms that have evolved over time are able to solve different types of challenges with certain strategies that preserve energy and are very efficient."Resources MentionedHexagro - https://www.hexagro.io/Felipe's Email - f.hernandez@hexagro.ioFelipe's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hexagro.io/Felipe's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hexagro.ioFelipe's Linkedin -

Tristan Fischer has been involved in sustainable energy and sustainable food for over twenty years. He has been the Chairman or CEO of numerous companies, including Fischer Farms, a vertical farming/hydroponics business. Today, Tristan joins the show to discuss the benefits of vertical farm crops over field-grown crops, the looming food security crisis, and the importance of being a kind and empathetic leaderThanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamIndoor AgConFarmAnywhere Key Takeaways07:13 – Tristan Fischer joins the show to share his background in finance, the evolution of renewables, and his passion for sustainability17:15 – Vertical farming crops vs. field-grown crops21:54 – Feeding the world: Tristan's vertical farming origin story31:16 – The inspiration to launch Fischer Farms and how Tristan has grown as a CEO42:12 – The importance of being kind and empathetic45:08 – Fischer Farms' offerings and ideal clients48:56 – A tough question Tristan has had to ask himself recently51:43 – A specific ask Tristan has for his colleagues in the vertical farming industry52:37 – Harry thanks Tristan for joining the show and lets listeners know where they can go to connect with him and learn more about Fischer FarmsTweetable Quotes“If you want to do good in the world, you also need to actually be profitable and develop businesses that are intrinsically capitalistic. Using capital to grow and having a business which is purely based on charitable activity isn't good enough if you want to make a difference.” (10:52) (Tristan)“When I was first doing solar projects, solar really wasn't a great technology. Wind wasn't really a great technology. It was expensive. It was intermittent. And, if you move on to twenty years after I started and you look in the UK now, the new wind energy systems that are coming onstream are the lowest cost electricity in the market, with the exception of solar.” (14:35) (Tristan)“The quality that you get from vertical farming is just better than the quality that you get from a field-grown crop. It's tastier, has a longer shelf life, is more nutritious, it has a lower environmental footprint. There's just a whole long list of reasons why vertical farm products are better than field-grown crops.” (18:35) (Tristan)“About twenty-five percent of all the world's food production comes from land which uses aquifer water for irrigation. And, in about twenty years time, in most of the world where they have that type of system, that water will be gone or unusable.” (24:53) (Tristan)“I think that ultimately what you're trying to do as a CEO is get the best out of your team because, ultimately, you need them. They are the specialists. They are the ones who understand the lighting, the water systems, the technology, and the growing.” (36:10) (Tristan)“I think that, as a CEO, creating that culture is very important. A culture of trust, of openness,and dare I say, of kindness, and love, and affection. We want people to be nice to each other, tobe good to each other, because if they are nice and good to each other, the more likely they areto cooperate and help each other out. And that's what it's all about really.” (41:48) (Tristan)Resources MentionedTristan's LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristanfischer/?...

Ever wished you could peek into the mind of a successful vertical farming entrepreneur? Our guest Karla Garcia shares here love for plant physiology and how it guided her to the realm of vertical farming. From her childhood influences to her current role as a technical services specialist at Hort Americas in Mexico, Karla's story is a testament to the power of passion and hard work.As Karla shares her experiences, we shed light on the trending shift towards vertical farming among the younger generation. The focus is changing from merely seeking jobs to pioneering businesses in controlled environment agriculture. We also touch on the growing vertical farming community in Mexico, which is championing collaboration and growth. Hear about the sweat and resilience required to carve out a niche in this industry and the boundless opportunities that lie in wait.Lastly, we delve into Karla's personal life, discussing the crucial balance between work and passion, the importance of wise planning, and making informed investments in the vertical farming industry. Karla underscores the significance of starting small, learning on the go, and structuring your business intelligently. The conversation wraps up with Karla extending an open invitation to connect on Instagram and the Hort Americas website for those keen on learning more about the horticulture industry in Mexico. Join us as we unravel the intricacies of the world of vertical farming and harvest some invaluable advice for anyone interested in this burgeoning industry.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamIndoor AgConKey Takeaways00:00 Entrepreneurial Journey in Plant Science06:43 Starting a Microgreens Business With Hort Americas20:15 Shift Towards Interest in Vertical Farming24:48 Vertical Farming and Teaching Passion31:34 Work-Life Balance in Vertical Farming38:16 Connecting With Karla for More InformationTweetable Quotes"When applying knowledge, you get to know a lot. I would I love to analyze data, for example. So every time that I have data from my business or even from other people's business, for me that's really exciting because you get to know how the plant is behaving and what things you can do inside of the greenhouse or the plant factory in order to adjust everything.""If you have a goal, you find a way. So I think that's really important too, and I have seen that when helping my friends and different people in different businesses. That's really important because sometimes we give up before trying enough.""I think vertical farming is very helpful, but we need to evaluate the projects in advance, because some of the projects are very big and very ambitious and we don't have at that time a history on how to do business with that kind of company."Resources MentionedHort Americas - https://hortamericas.com/Karla's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karla-garcia-8abb1213bKarla's Email - pakarla11@email.arizona.eduConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram -

Ready to journey into the heart of nature and discover the green world of microgreens? Prepare to be inspired by financial graduate turned passionate farmer, Jonah Krochmalnek. He takes us through his life journey, from his humble beginnings starting a microgreens business in his parent's spare bedroom, to figuring out the market demand and different strategies that helped him succeed in the microgreens industry. His experiences, trials, and triumphs will be a guiding light for other budding entrepreneurs. Jonah Krochmalnek's passion doesn't end with farming; he also reveals how he navigated COVID-19's impact on his business, Living Earth Farm, while juggling other tasks like managing an Airbnb property and building a course. Hear about his process of selling his business, the importance of finding the right buyer, and his fascinating transition into creating a microgreens consulting company and podcast. His insights on these experiences provide valuable lessons on how to handle business during trying times. Finally, join us as we discuss the personal side of entrepreneurship -- the challenges one faces when balancing personal life, business, and family. Jonah shares his personal development journey, the benefits he reaped from meditation and books, and the lessons from his podcast Microgreens Mastery. This chat is packed with golden nuggets for entrepreneurs in the vertical farming space, so don't miss out! As Jonah says, "business is a journey, not a destination," and we invite you to embark on this journey with us. Find more about Jonah and the microgreens industry across various resources and platforms mentioned in the podcast. Tune in now!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamIndoor AgConKey Takeaways00:00 Passion for Growing Food and Farming09:01 Market Demand and Adapting Strategies16:44 High Quality Microgreens and Successful Business25:08 Navigating Challenges and Finding Balance31:00 Sell Business and Transition to New Ventures42:08 Business and Personal Life Challenges49:27 Connecting for Microgreens InformationTweetable Quotes"So much wisdom and beauty in living with the speed of nature rather than the speed of a city.""You know, all this knowledge I've accumulated is so valuable to other people because they can skip all the steps that I had to take to get where I needed to go, all the failures along the way.""I think it's just very fulfilling to see these farms that I work with and see how much easier life can be with having the right information or having the right equipment and how much time they can save."Resources MentionedJonah's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonah-krochmalnek- b84941223Jonah's Email - jonah.krochmalnek@gmail.comMicrogreen Consulting - https://www.microgreensconsulting.com/Living Earth Farm - https://www.livingearthfarm.ca/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP...

Can a journey encompassing exotic travels, engineering, and entrepreneurship shape the future of vertical farming? This episode unravels that mystery as we sit down with Christopher Weis Thomasen, CEO and Co-founder of Seasony. A vivid storyteller, Christopher shares his transformative experiences from Namibia to Japan, painting a vivid picture of how these encounters helped develop his entrepreneurial mindset. Moving away from traditional farming, Christopher takes us through his pivot to automation and standardization in vertical farming. The intriguing conversation touches on the challenges and benefits of adopting new technology in farming, particularly mobile robotics. His insights on transitioning small farms to automation are enlightening, putting into perspective the critical role of automation in the future of farming. As we explore the future of vertical farming, Christopher lays out his vision for localized food production, demonstrating how global trends are pushing this new norm. From the benefits of space efficiency to the practical advantages for retailers and end users, he paints a promising picture of large scale, near distribution food production. His candid advice on finding your place in the value chain and automating processes early is an invaluable takeaway. Tune in and connect with an episode that showcases the landscape of vertical farming through the lens of a savvy entrepreneur.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamHorti Agri Next MEA Key Takeaways00:00 Entrepreneurship and Travel05:35 Robotics in Vertical Farming16:47 Automation and Standardization in Vertical Farming28:33 Engineers and Conferences in Vertical Farming32:27 Vertical Farming's Importance and Future36:50 The Future of Vertical FarmingTweetable Quotes"As an entrepreneur, I think you can get pretty caught up in working all the time, so it's nice to just plug out a little bit and basically see something else.""So if there's a lot of robotics engineers that are working on a super interesting problem that tends to attract other robotics engineers to go to that same place because here they can exchange ideas and spar with colleagues that are in the same fields.""The sooner the better. Typically. I mean we would love to get involved quite early in the process, also in the design process, to help the vertical farms actually figure out how do they design for automation in the best possible way."Resources MentionedChris' Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-weis-thomasen/Chris' Email - cht@seasony.dkConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly -

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey with Jessica Gomez de la Rosa, the innovative CEO of Origeen Greener Cities. From the vibrant buzz of Las Vegas to the concentrated energy of New York City, Jessica will guide us through her captivating discovery of Indoor AgTech and how it's revolutionizing the agricultural landscape. She unveils her ingenious system for vertical farming and surprises us with the revelation that varied crops could flourish within her carefully crafted environment. We'll then jet off to Mexico, where Jessica's groundbreaking VPOT technology is setting the stage for a vertical farming revolution. She'll lead us through the labyrinth of educating people about the benefits of hydroponic farming and showcase how this cutting-edge technology is being implemented in a variety of settings - homes, shipping containers, and greenhouses. If you're curious about the financial prospects in Mexico's vertical farming industry, Jessica's insightful analysis promises to be a treasure trove of information. As we navigate the peaks and troughs of introducing a leading-edge technology in the vertical farming space, Jessica's candid reflections on the challenges and rewards of this journey will provide invaluable insights. We'll delve into the intricacies of Origeens' distinct black and white VPOT tech, the vital role of community support in entrepreneurial endeavors, and the promising outlook for the future. Grab your headphones, this episode promises a fun ride through the world of vertical farming that you certainly don't want to miss!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamHorti Agri Next MEA Key Takeaways02:01 - 03:00 Modular Scalable Indoor Farming System 07:21 - 08:54 Changes and Feedback on VPOT Design 13:11 - 15:05 Interest in Vertical Farming in Mexico 16:36 - 17:55 Investment Opportunities in Mexican Agriculture 21:54 - 23:07 Hydroponics and Vertical Farming Interest 26:42 - 29:15 Indoor Farming Conference in Mexico30:43 - 32:01 Vertical Farming Community in Mexico 36:13 - 36:53 Startup Space Excitement and InnovationTweetable Quotes"I've always wanted to be involved in something that can make an environmental and social impact.""When the investors and people start knowing about the benefits and start to know about the environmental and social and about food security, they will be more curious and they will be open to integrate this kind of agriculture.""I think what we need to do is create noise. As I said, the few that we are here at Mexico in vertical farming, we are trying to create or build that community, to make noise and to make people know about the benefits."Resources MentionedOrigins Greener Cities - https://www.origeen.com.mx/Indoor AgTech - https://indoor.ag/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/indoor-agcon/World AgriTech - https://worldagritechusa.com/Vertigo Pacto - https://www.vertigopacto.com/Expo Agroalimentaria Guanajuato - https://expoagrogto.com/Rijk Zwaan -

Are you keen to discover the future of farming? Unveil the revolutionary world of vertical farming with our esteemed guest, Cody Journell, founder and CEO of Vegg, Inc. Cody, with his vast knowledge and innovative approach to Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), is pioneering a fresh perspective on how we perceive agriculture. This episode takes you on a thrilling journey into the heart of Vegg, Inc., where old school buildings transform into thriving vertical farms.Step inside the unique landscape of vertical farming as we discuss how Vegg, Inc. is changing the game with their comprehensive guidance on infrastructure development, leasing options, and revenue models. We delve into their budding relationships with regional feed hubs and how these alliances might revolutionize local farming. We also reflect on the GAP Summit and the challenges small and medium-sized farmers face. Hear directly from Cody as he offers a glimpse into his leadership journey and how he is preparing his team for an industry that is in perpetual motion.Lastly, we try to break down the intricacies of vertical farming for the everyday individual and understand the role it plays in preserving our farmlands. We evaluate how consumer habits need to change for vertical farming to be more widely accepted and discuss how the US could potentially halt the alarming loss of thousands of acres of farmland per day. Be inspired by the potential of Vegg, Inc.'s projects that aim to provide education and workforce development in rural areas. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that might just reshape your understanding of agriculture and its future.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamVertifarm - Use code VFPODCAST23FarmAnywhereCEA Summit EastHorti Agri Next MEA Key Takeaways05:44 - Real Estate and Problem-Solving10:05 - Historic Tax Credits and Building Challenges15:36 - Scaling Vegg24:15 - Journey as CEO and Team Growth 29:05 - Vegg's Potential Locally and Nationally33:47 - Concept of Vertical Farming and Messaging38:53 - The Viability of Vertical Farming CareersTweetable Quotes"We're losing I think we're losing somewhere around 2,000 acres of farmland in the US per day to redevelopment. So that's 700 plus thousand a year that we're losing. Populations increasing, consumer preferences are changing. They want more food, which we have less land, and they want it grown in an environmentally friendly manner. So how are we going to solve that problem? In walks, vertical farming and CEA.""We had a family farm that was passed down through generations and generations and it's just it's not something that kids are growing up and doing now." "One of my favorite things about real estate is the fact that it is 100% what problems you can solve, whether you're successful or not. So whether it's even a transaction that you're helping someone out with, or it's a building that you're looking at to develop, or there's some zoning requirements that you have to work around, it's always a problem that's being solved and you know you solve big problems and you know big profits follow."Resources MentionedCody's Website - https://www.vegginc.com/ Cody's Linkedin -