Vertical Farming Podcast - Conversations with CEOs, Founders & Leaders in AgTech & CEA

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 Dutch are the world leaders in greenhouse and food production, and they've got a great story to tell. The technology piece has been the most exciting. We have companies of all sizes, from the large ones like Plenty and AeroFarms to smaller ones like Beanstalk in Fairfax County. It's great to see how they are all different but serve a great purpose."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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

In this episode, I speak with Shlomy Raziel, the visionary behind Grow-Tec, 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 Grow-Tec 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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - https://www.linkedin.com/company/teensforfoodjustice/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4eHV1OR7WYIye2hvskhPGgConnect 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - https://www.youtube.com/c/FreightfarmsConnect 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 MentionedWebsite - https://www.plantdynamics.co/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danplant/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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - [email protected] - 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 - 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - [email protected] - 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/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - [email protected]'s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hexagro.io/Felipe's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hexagro.ioFelipe's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hexagro-ioFelipe's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@hexagro1177Connect 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/CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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/? originalSubdomain=ukFischer Farms – https://www.fischerfarms.co.uk/Fischer Farms LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/fischer-farms-ltd/Natural Capitalism – https://www.amazon.com/Natural-Capitalism-Creating-Industrial-Revolution/dp/0316353000Connect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 - [email protected] 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/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 - [email protected] 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 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/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 - [email protected] 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/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 - https://www.rijkzwaan.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/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

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 SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/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 - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-journell-8677602b Cody's Email - [email protected] Cody's Instagram - https://instagram.com/codyjournellVirginia Tech - https://www.vt.edu/Cultivatd - https://cultivatd.com/College of Agriculture and Life Sciences - https://www.cals.vt.edu/GAP Summit - https://globalbiotechrevolution.com/events/gapsummit-2020Connect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Are you ready to embark on a fascinating journey into the world of environmental automation technology with our captivating guest, Neda Vaseghi, the CEO of Microclimates? From the early days of Neda's life in Iran, through the trials of war, and onto her ascension in the tech industry, we explore how her past experiences have shaped her entrepreneurial drive. Join us as we venture into the heart of Microclimates, shedding light on the innovative start-up bridging the gap in Controlled Environment Agriculture operations. Neda and her business partner, Loren, share insights into the company's offerings, shedding light on the surprising lack of interconnectedness across systems, and the promising partnership with Lethbridge College. Listen as they share their educational efforts on LinkedIn and how they navigate the tech industry's challenges. As our conversation deepens, we tackle the critical issue of energy usage and conservation. We unravel the importance of understanding energy consumption at a granular level, the pros of a wireless energy management system, and the challenges faced by businesses without reliable internet. Wrapping up our insightful talk, Neda imparts her experiences in under- resourced US regions and the potential of digital transformation partnerships. From entrepreneurs to tech enthusiasts, and agtech afficionados, this episode shines an (LED) light the future of farming. Tune in, don't miss out!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamFarmAnywhereHorti Agri Next MEA Key Takeaways0:00:05 - Microclimates and Indoor Agtech NYC Conversation0:08:25 - Iran's Cultural Richness and Entrepreneurship Journey0:13:22 - Building Business, Maintaining Friendship0:23:03 - Why Microclimates?0:36:52 - Energy Usage and Wireless Devices Focus0:41:45 - Navigating Challenges and Choices in Entrepreneurship0:51:28 - Connecting to MicroclimatesTweetable Quotes"I noticed this trend of oh my gosh, we're really faced with this issue of not having enough arable land, and there is this thing called indoor farming, which I didn't even know.""We integrate various systems together onto one dashboard and all the data is harmonized across all of them. So the customer. You know, we're hardware agnostic.""I was actually really surprised. I didn't realize that all these companies make one thing and they do one thing really well, but either they don't have an open system, they don't have an API, you can't connect systems to talk to one another."Resources MentionedNeda's Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/in/nedavaseghiNeda's Email - [email protected] Neda's Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2RYlW1JHklLceXFi7TtOOANeda's Website - www.microclimates.comConnect 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/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Ever sought the thrill of leaving the mundane behind to explore the world, only to land in the fascinating field of agriculture? Join us as we sit down with Chris Rawley, the founder and CEO of Harvest Returns, who did exactly that. Combining his experiences as a Navy veteran, a globe-trotter, and a commercial real estate investor, Chris shares his journey to bridging the gap between investors and farmers through his platform. Listen in as he delves into the transformation of farming practices due to climate change and technology. Venture with Chris as he transports us through his travels across 60 countries, sharing meals and connecting with locals. His travel tales are not only intriguing but also shed light on the stark dichotomy between food systems in developed and less fortunate countries. His stories from the open seas are captivating and humbling, reminding us of the raw beauty and power of nature. Moreover, his observations have shaped his current work in sustainable agriculture and vertical farming. In the realm of agriculture, every turn comes with its own set of challenges. Chris candidly discusses the hurdles faced in financing agriculture and the necessity of building trust in the industry. From developing different financing structures for farms to fostering relationships with different cultures, he's done it all. He also shares his insights into the struggles and triumphs of vertical farming. As we wrap up our conversation, Chris emphasizes the importance of sustainability, risk management, and investor education in farming. This intriguing conversation with Chris promises to illuminate you on the complexities and rewards of farming and sustainable agriculture. Don't miss out!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamFarmAnywhereHorti Agri Next MEAKey Takeaways0:00:00 - Chris’ Introduction to Vertical Farming0:08:28 - Connecting Cultures Through Food and Travel0:15:33 - Challenges of Financing and Building Trust in Farming0:20:48 - Challenges and Traits of Vertical Farming0:28:19 - Considerations for Funding Indoor Farms 0:38:40 - Investor Perspective on Sustainable Agriculture0:45:25 - Cash Flow and Trust in BusinessTweetable Quotes"If you want to broaden your experience, best thing to do is go travel, just see the world.""I learned a lot about risk because we did some dangerous things, looking at what the worst case scenario is and probabilities of a failure and have tried to translate that into my business, especially on the investing side, as we look at farms that we're going to invest in.""There's a fine line between having an expensive hobby and having a business that can grow and make money for people involved. There's even more challenges because you've got investors that you have to provide a return to, and that's another thing that people don't think about when they have this sort of dream of I'm going to start a vertical farm."Resources MentionedChris' LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrawley/Harvest Returns LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10945364We Are the New Farmers - https://www.wearethenewfarmers.com/Chris' Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/harvestreturnsChris' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/harvestreturns/Chris' Twitter - https://twitter.com/HarvestReturnsChris' Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Can technology and privacy coexist in this rapidly evolving business landscape? This is a question we attempt to answer as we welcome Tinia Pina, the innovative Founder and CEO of Re-Nuble. Our riveting conversation explores the risks and rewards of navigating the digital world while protecting our privacy, and how we can leverage accessible technology to create sustainable products, without being swept up in the distractions of the tech world. New York’s relentless energy can be overwhelming, but it also breeds resilience. Together with Tinia, we journey through the bustling streets of the Big Apple, delving into its unique influence on its citizens. We reflect on the significance of community and how to find balance amidst the city's frenetic pace. We then steer our discussion towards the revolutionary world of renewable resources and sustainable agriculture. Tinia shares compelling anecdotes about her professional journey, the resilience that New York cultivated in her, and why she founded the New York City Agriculture Collective. The episode concludes with a fascinating discussion on the future of vertical farming, a disruptive practice that is reshaping the way we grow our food. We talk about the exciting potential of giving farmers more flexibility, from irrigation to material types. The potential of home farming and investment possibilities in produce security, particularly outside the United States, are also touched upon. Tinia's insights into these emerging trends offer a fresh perspective on the future of the industry. So join us for an episode packed with invaluable insights from a seasoned professional leading the way in the field of renewable resources and sustainable agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamFarmAnywhereCEA Summit EastKey Takeaways0:00:03 - Technology's Impact on Privacy and Business 0:04:45 - Finding Home, Balance in New York 0:08:48 - The Evolution of Renewable 0:21:58 - Challenges and Growth in Sustainable Agriculture0:34:25 - Flexible Irrigation and Material Types 0:44:31 - The Future of Vertical FarmingTweetable Quotes"I've always needed to align my personal values with my professional work. The work that I needed to do needed to have a social mission, which is why we're a social enterprise. It's very easy and without any question, we need to have something that's going to directly give back in ways that the business can.""We're essentially a social enterprise that focuses on developing and commercializing nutrients and fiber products that are meant to use byproducts from the food production industry, as well as crop residues, to turn them into organic, renewable materials to replace mineral salts and horticultural substrates.""The biggest advantage has been for me of just removing any ego, any attachment, and I think that makes me a lot more lean. I lean into the team. I definitely create an environment where people feel like they're co-creating, they're contributing just as much as I in the sense of this is part of their vision as well."Resources MentionedTinia's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/re-nubleTinia's Website - https://www.re-nuble.comTinia's Email - [email protected] Tinia's Twitter - https://twitter.com/Re_NubleTinia's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/re_nuble/?hl=enTinia's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ReNuble/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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Prepare to set sail on a journey filled with adventure, art, and groundbreaking technology with our guest, Rob van Straten, CEO of Skytree. This episode dives deep into Rob's vibrant life, taking us from his childhood in the 80s, through his time in the army, his global sailing adventures, and leading us up to his stellar rise in the tech world. As a lover of art, Rob shares his memorable experiences from the Vermeer exhibition and the captivating stories behind some of the most iconic artworks. We also explore the intricate path that led Rob to spearhead Skytree's mission towards ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance. For those keen on understanding the inner workings of the tech industry, Rob takes us through his career, shedding light on the highs and lows of sales, leadership, and business management. He openly discusses the challenges of transforming intentions into actions, particularly in the realm of responsible business practices. Rob also sets the stage for us to understand the birth and evolution of Skytree's revolutionary CO2 scrubber technology, originally designed for space but now adapted for earthly applications. Finally, we delve into the world of vertical farming and Skytree's pioneering CO2 capture technology. Rob paints a vivid picture of how his team has harnessed technology to offer a sustainable alternative to CO2 emissions. From capturing CO2 from exhausts to engineering a machine that directly extracts CO2 at a vertical farm's location, Skytree is redefining the game. Rob also introduces us to Skytree's Total Cost of Ownership tool, a unique approach that helps clients understand the real cost associated with CO2. As we conclude our time with Rob, he shares his perspective on the rising industry of vertical farming, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, faith, and understanding. So, come aboard and prepare to be enthralled by this riveting tale of technology, art, and innovation.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamCEA Summit EastHorti Agri Next MEAKey Takeaways0:00:00 - Discussion on Art and Career Journey0:13:14 - Skytree's ESG Compliance Journey0:28:47 - CO2 Capture Technology for Vertical Farms0:43:26 - Insights on the Vertical Farming IndustryTweetable Quotes"We all know greenwashing is sort of an intermediate stage between awareness and really doing things. Oh, let's say we do this. We can defend that with a little bit of fantasy and you can criticize it, but it's also a step, a step in the right direction, and then public outcry on greenwashing will repair that soon, because that's the worst thing that can happen to your reputation." "There's no choice. But it's difficult because of our climate issue and there's no job anymore. But the difficulty is always that it's easy to talk about what we should do. It's difficult to change your own behavior. But recently we see recognition that actually the world will survive, the planet will survive, but it's people that will be in trouble.""I just saw the opportunity and maybe that blindsided me a little bit for the risk, you know. Then, yeah, I mean you dive into it because you think you know it's a gut feel we can make this work."Resources MentionedRob's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robvanstratenRob's Website - https://www.skytree.eu/Rob's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Growing up in the rugged landscapes of Scotland, our guest Ralph Weir, CEO of Zayndu, has traversed a fascinating journey - from the world of semiconductors and mobile television to the cutting-edge realm of vertical farming. Ralph's story is not just a narrative of professional evolution, but a testament to the power of adaptability and innovation. Join us as we uncover how Ralph's Scottish roots, his father's profound influence, and a chance encounter with the world of agriculture shaped his incredible journey. Zayndu, under Ralph's leadership, is revolutionizing the farming landscape using plasma technology. This episode dives into the crux of their trailblazing work centered on leveraging plasma to enhance crop growth, optimize seeds per specific growing systems, and significantly reduce costs - transforming vertical farming into an accessible venture for small-scale farmers. We also ponder over the intriguing concepts of differential pricing and 'snooze mode' for seasonal planting, with Ralph providing us with his insights on the same. Despite the numerous challenges posed by the global pandemic and Brexit, Zayndu's resilience and commitment to their mission remain unwavering. As we navigate through the complexities of leadership, the nuances of technology, and the future of vertical farming, we get a glimpse into the potential of decision-making rooted in facts, and the importance of clean seeds in a vertical farm. Tune in and get inspired by this compelling story of innovation, resilience, and passion for the environment.Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamCEA Summit EastHorti Agri Next MEAKey Takeaways0:00:01 - Vertical Farming and Scottish Origins 0:16:11 - Zayndu 0:20:26 - Leadership and Managing Through Challenging Times 0:27:13 - Plasma Technology in Agriculture 0:46:38 - The Future of Vertical Farming 0:57:16 - Discovering and Connecting with Inspiring StoriesTweetable Quotes"When you're in a hole, the bomb doesn't count the pips. His point was if you're doing a job it doesn't matter if you're a major or the lowest rank. The bomb doesn't care. You're a team, do it together." "I think that in many ways, that transition from the world of semiconductors came through a series of other startups looking at things like aircraft efficiency and really starting to look at what can we do not to change the way people have to live, but to bring things into line to make what people need achievable within the bounds of what the world can provide." "Plasma is this fourth state of matter. It's a high energy state and instead of having these very solid bonds that the ice had, they became looser with the water, looser again with the gas and we actually start to split up the molecules so they become separate ions and at that point a lot of interesting things happen."Resources MentionedRalph's Website - www.zayndu.comRalph's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphweirceo/Ralph's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Have you ever wondered how the world of technology collides with the world of agriculture? Prepare to be spellbound as we sit down with Robin Vincent, the tech-savvy CEO and CINNO of Canobi Technologies. Robin takes us through his fascinating journey, from his early fascination with technology and his evolution from infrastructure architect to CEO. He paints a vivid picture of his personal project to reduce the mortality rate of stingrays and seahorses, a venture that guided him towards the creation of Canobi. The conversation takes a deep dive as we explore the company’s growth, challenges, and its unique product offerings. Robin enlightens us about their Agri-agent network, and the relentless testing that takes place in their in-house lab. From the plains of Kenya to the valleys of South Africa, we traverse the rising interest in agriculture, the impact of Canobi Academy's online education, and the exhilaration of being part of a nascent industry. We also touch on the upcoming Green Tech and Innovation Summit conferences and the ripple effects they will have on the industry. As our conversation winds down, we delve into the innovative world of vertical farming, looking at energy efficiency and the potential of integrating different technologies. Robin talks about the importance of collaboration, the richness of experiential learning, and how Canobi Technologies is empowering farmers with technology. Robin's optimism and excitement for what lies ahead in the vertical farming industry are infectious. So join us on this insightful journey with Robin Vincent!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamVertifarm - Use code VFPODCAST23CEA Summit EastKey Takeaways0:00:20 - Navigating the CEO Journey0:03:44 - Love for Tech and Electronics Origins0:21:50 - Ubuntu Wellness and Growing Nutritious Food0:26:36 - Conference Travel and Networking Discussion0:33:43 - Energy Efficiency in Farming Innovations 0:39:26 - Loneliness and Challenges of Entrepreneurship0:43:04 - Importance of Social Component in OrganizationsTweetable Quotes"I see the world as vastly unfinished... I see solutions, I don't really see problems.""We learned an awful lot more from our failures than our successes. While we're busy trying to break everything and figure out how not to grow strawberries, we're also trying to figure out how to keep them going.""Every single human being on this planet could have access to food. We now have the technical ability to grow food anywhere on this planet."Resources MentionedRobin's Website - https://canobiagtech.com/Robin's Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/company/71643741Robin's Email - [email protected]'s Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/canobitechRobin's Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/canobitechRobin's Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/CanobiTechnologiesRobin's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@canobiagtechConnect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Have you ever wondered about the unseen intricacies of greenhouse farming and the immense potential of vertical farms? Join us on a fascinating journey with our guest, Lotte Van Rijn, General Manager of Certhon, as she peels back the layers of her expansive knowledge and experiences in the industry. From the lush greenhouses of the Netherlands to the dream of circumnavigating the globe, Lotte’s life is as vibrant and varied as the crops she helps foster. Lotte takes us through his formative years in the industry, highlighting the significance of talent strategies and the exciting marriage of technology and plant science. This intriguing intersection, she explains, has been key in the development of innovative solutions in greenhouses and vertical farms. As she walks us through her journey, she also discusses the critical role of mentors and visionaries who have moulded her career, offering valuable insights for anyone seeking to tread a similar path. Lastly, Lotte shares her perspectives on the profound impacts of Covid on the greenhouse industry and the promising rise of vertical farms. She delves into the exciting prospects these changes present, such as the potential of functional foods and the promise of sustainable solutions to major global concerns. So, whether you're an expert in the field or just interested in the future of food, this episode is packed with valuable insights straight from the heart of the industry. Don't forget, Lotte encourages listeners to reach out with any questions, extending the spirit of collaboration beyond the confines of their greenhouses!Thanks to Our SponsorsAgTech Marketing TeamVertifarm - Use code VFPODCAST23CEA Summit EastHorti Agri Next MEAKey Takeaways0:00:03 - From Greenhouses to Open Waters 0:05:24 - Greenhouse Industry and Robotics Collaboration 0:20:17 - Greenhouse and Vertical Farming Innovations 0:30:53 - Collaboration and Innovation in Vertical FarmingTweetable Quotes"The difference between cultures, that there is so much more possible than your own vision or your own way to live. There are much more ways to live and you have a choice and there is a choice." - Lotte van Rijn"Growing is a job. It's difficult to grow, it's a real job. Plant science is difficult. So that's what I told you before the combination between AgTech. It's not that easy that you combine technology and nature and plants." - Lotte van Rijn"For me there is no big difference. And so what I find interesting is I've just now started going to the indoor farming conferences, so I've been to indoor ICON and I'll be at the indoor tech summit in New York City at the end of June." - Lotte van RijnResources MentionedLotte Van's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lotte-van-rijn-49947710/Lotte Van's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Like a modern-day agricultural alchemist, Mary Kathryn Scala co-founder of Freight to Plate, turns shipping containers into havens of verdant growth. In our conversation, Mary Kathryn walks us through her journey from the bustling restaurants of Chicago to the vibrant city of Austin, where she first discovered the potential of container farming. Her entrepreneurial spirit, ignited by this innovative concept, led her back to her roots in Chicago with a mission to revolutionize food systems. Hear Mary Kathryn's passionate discourse on the hard work and dedication it takes to bring to life a hyperlocal food system. We traverse the unique intricacies of setting up a container farm, and the importance of harnessing the power of partnerships in this sector. Mary Kathryn shares her insights on the ideal partners for this venture and highlights the pivotal role of tech integration in the current projects of Freight to Plate. The real magic begins when she begins to describe their mid-century modern farmhouse – a testament to the artistry and dedication that goes into creating a successful hyperlocal food system. As we wrap up, we take a moment to glimpse into the future of food production with a look at the Freight to Plate Homestead. This is more than just farming – it's a year-round showcase of controlled environment agriculture, fostering community development and technological collaborations. Mary Kathryn underlines the importance of mutual respect in these partnerships and how they are the key to success in vertical farming. Join us as we venture on this enlightening journey with Mary Kathryn, and glean insightful and inspiring perspectives on the future of food systems.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key Takeaways00:01 - Impact in Vertical Farming 13:07 - From Chicago to Austin 20:30 - Creating Fresh Food Systems During COVID 25:39 - Container Farming for Hyperlocal Food Systems 30:32 - Container Farming and Importance of Partnerships 47:26 - Partnerships and Impact in Vertical Farming 53:04 - Visit Homestead in ChicagoTweetable Quotes"Our mission is kind of radical, but to make fresh produce, take it further away from being a privilege because it should be a right, just like access to clean water should be a right." "It's not fair to bring adopters into the space and then not help them succeed. And I think helping them succeed is having groups like Freight to Plate that can help facilitate all the unknowns." “In the midst of getting over and meeting those adversities, like looking at myself in the mirror and saying, do you still believe in yourself, do you still believe in what you're doing? Enough to take another big leap of faith?”Resources MentionedMary Kathryn's Website - www.ftp.farmMary Kathryn's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-scala- 838a56b3/Mary Kathryn's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Unlock the future of modern agriculture with Nick Bateman, Executive Chairman at GrowPura. Nick, a seasoned veteran in the high tech business sphere, uncovers the exciting blend of clean room technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence that's shaping vertical farming. He illustrates how this burgeoning field is not only responding to the shifting crop demands of customers, but also bolstering sustainability and food security solutions. This conversation takes an intriguing turn as we navigate the unique challenges of the vertical farming industry, notably around the crucial aspect of funding. You'll discover how their groundbreaking technology is making strides, thanks to its cost-saving benefits, two years ahead of other vertical farming companies. Hear from Nick about the importance of forging the right partnerships and the role they play in our journey towards a more sustainable future. Finally, Nick shares his enthusiasm for the potential of vertical farming and how you can connect with GrowPura. Tune in to this enlightening discussion and stay on the cutting edge with technological advancements that are reshaping our world.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key Takeaways00:00 - Exploring Vertical Farming With Nick Bateman 19:04 - Technology and Crops in Vertical Farming 30:37 - Global Vertical Farming Solutions Provider 40:24 - Partnering With the Right Funding Backers 44:47 - Sustainable Funding in Vertical Farming 51:15 - Getting ConnectedTweetable Quotes"Vertical farming is definitely really important. The existing businesses, the existing farmers, growers, they can't increase production to that extent. This is a growth industry." “Large corporations are all thinking about global changes. A lot of farmers are starting to flex their business around energy pricing. You've got to really work harder and find a solution that enables you to use the energy all day and all night, because the capital cost of the facilities are so large."Resources MentionedNick's Website - https://growpura.com/ Nick's Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/company/growpura/Nick's Twitter - https://twitter.com/GrowPura Nick's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Join Harry Duran, host of Vertical Farming Podcast, as he welcomes to the show Christine Zimmermann-Loessl, Chairwoman at Association for Vertical Farming. Association for Vertical Farming (AVF for short) is an internationally active nonprofit organization of individuals, companies, research institutions and universities focusing on leading and advancing the sustainable growth and development of the vertical farming movement. Today, Harry and Christine talk about how Christine’s entrepreneurial spirit and natural curiosity led her from studying philosophy and political science to heading one of the largest vertical farming advocate organizations. Christine speaks to the need for all companies in the vertical farming industry to work together to combat issues like overpopulation, climate change and other existential planetary crises facing our world. Finally, Christine and Harry talk about the critical role technology continues to play in our world and our future as well as the importance of remembering that we are all part of nature. It is at this intersection of technology and nature that vertical farming can play a saving role.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/VertiFarmHorti Agri Next MEAKey Takeaways03:41 – Harry welcomes to the show Christine Zimmermann- Loessl who shares the origins of her entrepreneurial spirit, her background in philosophy and political science, and her goals to understand and positively impact the world 10:26 – An early passion for Chinese medicine 17:08 – The origin story of Association for Vertical Farming and early challenges faced 24:29 – The evolution of Christine’s role at AVF and what she’s observed about competitors and the overall industry 30:00 – Relationship-building in the vertical farming space and growing AVF through partnerships 40:53 – Christine makes a specific ask of the audience 45:56 – Harry thanks Christine for joining the show and reiterates where listeners can go to learn more about AVF and connect with ChristineTweetable Quotes“My father was an entrepreneur, so I grew up with that spirit of being independent and working in the framework that is set by myself and not by somebody else. I could never imagine myself in an office job from nine to five.” (08:20) (Christine) “Now, with vertical farming, all of that comes together for me with technology and biology. The marriage of these two important developments in our history, I think, is a really decisive transformation for us.” (14:57) (Christine) “The mandate [of Association of Vertical Farming] clearly was to raise awareness and build a collaboration and cooperation platform where the few people or institutions who were active in that field had a place together to exchange and grow organically from there.” (20:41) (Christine) “In the beginning, as a newcomer into that field with a very different background in philosophy and political science and not agriculture, I really played the role of organization setup for the legal and administrative things. There were people in the front representing and knowing much more than me about that and I was really more in the back than I am now. That totally changed, but I really had to grow into that role and into the field to really understand.” (24:36) (Christine) “Technology is important, but please never forget that we are part of nature. Vertical farming can play a role in freeing land giving back to nature and not using more and more land. That is what my understanding is.” (40:21) (Christine)Resources MentionedChristine’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/christineziloessl/ VertiFarm Website – https://www.vertifarm.de/ Association for Vertical Farming Website – https://vertical- farming.net/ Association for Vertical Farming Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/averticalfarm/ Association for Vertical Farming Twitter – https://twitter.com/AVerticalFarm Association for Vertical Farming LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/association-for-vertical- farming/ Association for Vertical Farming YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/c/Vertical-farmingNet/videos Association for Vertical Farming Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/associationforverticalfarming/ Associations for Vertical Farming Email – INFO@VERTICAL- FARMING.NET Link to Call of the Forest – https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4590806/ Christine’s Email – CZL@verticalfarming-netConnect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter

Join Harry Duran, host of Vertical Farming Podcast, as he welcomes to the show Michael Sichenzia. Michael is the Managing Director at Go Global Advisors and today, he shares his passion for bringing food to communities and what led him to pursue work in the vertical farming industry. Specifically, Michael speaks to the intricacies of developing container farms, everything from getting zoning approval from the local or city government to what he looks for when building a team. Michael is highly mission-focused and wants to leave a legacy of making the world a better place, or at the very least trying to. Michael touches on his involvement in the From Mary With Love project, his relationship with Freight Farms and his belief that education about the vertical farming industry comes through empowerment.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/OunceOfHopeCEASummit Key Takeaways03:41 – Harry welcomes to the show Michael Sichenzia who talks about his background in real estate and how he made the connection between public storage facilities and modular hydroponic space 08:46 – What Michael looks for when developing farms and when building a team 12:01 – From Mary With Love 15:09 – A budding relationship with Freight Farms 16:38 – Zoning and effectively communicating with your local government and community 19:39 – Empowerment through education 26:34 – Michael speaks to an exciting new project he’s working on in Buffalo 31:16 – Identifying the ideal investor 34:36 – Why Michael is so passionate about bringing food to the community 37:44 – Speculating on the future of vertical farming and why Marketing and PR are key 44:52 – Harry thanks Michael for joining the show and lets listeners know where they can connect with MichaelTweetable Quotes“Having owned and operated restaurants in my past, I saw that that was an area that I wanted to get back to. And I saw that my real estate experience would play into that because I knew how to put together deal structures. And I felt that farming, and urban farming in particular, had a tremendous opportunity with the right deal structure. And that’s how I got into it.” (05:51) (Michael) “I looked at the hydroponics space and saw it’s really a play on storage. Public storage facilities and the way those deals are structured are ideally suited for modular, containerized, hydroponic space in an urban setting. And that was the connection for me.” (07:32) (Michael) “Passion, sticktoitiveness, the idea that we’re gonna make this work no matter what the obstacle is, that’s very important in any entrepreneurial venture.” (13:32) (Michael) “Attacking that and making sure that the city has a variance process, whatever that process is, get it started sooner rather than later. That issue will affect everything. The last thing that you want to do is take delivery of your farm and deploy it and not be able to grow. To me, you need to understand the zoning, communicate with the city, and really work that process effectively.” (17:45) (Michael) “I’m a big believer in good PR and I’m a believer that you make things happen with good PR and good communications.” (22:28) (Michael) “We have to remember that social enterprise is still an enterprise. The key word there is ‘enterprise.’ We tend to forget that. These [containers] need to be self-sustaining otherwise they will fail.” (33:37) (Michael) “I’m not in this for the deal. I’m in this because I want to bring food to the community. And I think that there’s probably never been a better time to marry good deal structure with delivery and production of food. We need it now more than ever. It really is the time to own our own food again. I really believe that.” (34:36) (Michael) “I’ve always tried to be a year ahead of The New York Times. My whole career has been focused on if I can be a year ahead of The New York Times, I’m gonna be doing something.” (40:51) (Michael) “You have to self-promote. If you’re not gonna promote yourself, who is? So, you gotta get out there. You gotta talk about your things. You gotta fail. I fail all the time. There’s that saying, ‘If you want to succeed then double your failure rate.’ Well, I’ve probably quadrupled my failure rate, but that’s part of the process.” (44:20) (Michael)Resources MentionedMichael’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sichenzia-74b1105a/From Mary With Love – https://www.facebook.com/FromMaryWithLove/ 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.c

A fascinating voyage from the fashion capital of the world to the cutting edge of agricultural technology is what we have in store for you. We bring you the riveting tale of Sepehr Achard, the CEO of iGrow News. Raised in France and influenced by his experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Sepehr found his calling in vertical farming—a far cry from the finance world he was initially a part of. Follow us as we traverse this intriguing shift in career paths, the risk and reward of heading a dedicated news platform for the vertical farming industry, and how an unexpected discovery in university sparked this life-changing pivot. Join us as we discover the world of indoor farming opportunities, uncovering the dedication and perseverance it takes to cultivate successful vertical farms. Sepehr gives us a seed-to-shelf view of the growth, from hiring interns and staff, to the potential bloom of data crunching in this field. Amidst the growing saturation in the Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) industry, we discuss the challenge of brand differentiation, the urgency to educate consumers, and the need to simplify complicated industry news for the benefit of local communities. We journey through the verdant landscape of agricultural innovation, guided by Sepehr's experiences at food tech conferences and his vision of agriculture as an ecosystem touching billions of lives. We delve into the myriad facets of innovation—technology, sourcing, and production—within plant science and vertical farming. Lastly, we navigate the various channels Sepehr uses to disseminate his knowledge, offering us an unfiltered view of the blood, sweat, and tears that go into maintaining thriving vertical farms across the globe. Get ready to be rooted in place as we bring you this enthralling foray into the world of vertical farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/OunceOfHopeCEASummit VertiFarmKey Takeaways01:49 - Sepehr’s origins in Dubai 10:03 - Challenges of Reporting on Vertical Farming 15:11 - The start of iGrow News 21:22 - Challenges of Differentiating in Vertical Farming 28:18 - Challenges of Expanding Into New Markets 33:24 - Public vs Private Company Correlation 38:58 - Current Innovations in Technology and Crops 42:23 - Attending Conferences and Exciting DevelopmentsTweetable Quotes"You don't grow without taking some risks at some point in your life." "When you're passionate, you don't count your hours. It's something that goes naturally and you just vibe." "I like to uncover other perspectives. I think that way too often a lot of news sources and a lot of news outlets, they're kind of influencing the opinion that people will have on a particular subject."Resources MentionedSepehr's Website - https://igrownews.com Sepehr's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sepehr-achard-090666179/Sepehr's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sepachard/ Sepehr's Twitter - https://twitter.com/SepehrAchard Sepehr's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Get ready for an enlightening conversation on vertical farming and food justice as we chat with Nona Yehia, CEO and co-founder of Vertical Harvest. Discover the growing importance of indoor ag tech and understand the significance of intersectional discussions within this evolving industry. Learn how fresh food access and Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) are playing a crucial role in fostering positive change, and how technology is championing this transformation. Join us as we discuss Vertical Harvest's expansion and their people-first approach. Nona shares how their commitment to diversity and inclusion has helped the company stay agile and adapt to the ever-changing industry. Hear about the development of the Grow Well Employment model and how understanding community employment needs has shaped their success. We also delve into the critical role of transparency in this maturing industry. Lastly, we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the CEA industry. Uncover how technology and innovation can empower people, augment teams, and create smarter and better ways of working. Nona reveals Vertical Harvest's approach to prioritizing yields and production alongside people while optimizing costs. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the importance of having a strong vision, mission, and transparency in creating a sustainable business within the vertical farming industry.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/AgriTechNYCCEASummitKey Takeaways0:01:48 - Food Justice and Access 0:06:13 - Vertical Farms as Urban Infrastructure 0:11:44 - Building Templates for Farm Success 0:17:23 - Employment Model for Community Growth 0:26:18 - Vertical Harvest's Community Impact in Detroit 0:34:24 - Democratizing Access to Fresh Food 0:45:15 - AI and Innovation in Food Production 0:53:50 - Social Media for Team ConnectionTweetable Quotes"The promise of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) lies in the tech, of course, but the tech is there for a reason. Why do we use the tech, and why is it important? And why is it not only important to investors, but why is it important to you, your family, your neighborhood, your city?" "We have shown that access to this very exciting space can be democratized right. And our farmers, who, prior to Vertical Harvest, were washing dishes, cleaning hotel rooms, that's all great. We got to start somewhere. But now they have fed our community good food, healthy food, food that inspires fresh food, and now they're leading the charge in Maine." "This isn't only about Vertical Harvest or everybody else. This is about something whose time has come because people need it. I think we're close to unlocking that, because this is a movement.”Resources MentionedNona's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nona-yehia-3b2266a/Nona's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/verticalnona/Nona's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Can you imagine the metropolis of New York City as a thriving urban farm? Qiana Mickie, a passionate advocate for urban agriculture and food justice, joins us to share her experience of growing up in the vibrant city and how it has shaped her commitment to feeding New York's communities. We journey through the city's pulsating neighborhoods, reminiscing about the birth of hip hop, our shared experiences of Catholic schools, and the explorative thrills of the 80s.As we stroll down memory lane, we pivot to a more poignant topic; Qiana’s journey as a single mother amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Her experiences spur a deep conversation about the power of empathy, stepping out of comfort zones, and utilizing privilege to create meaningful impact. We delve into Qiana’s work with the Urban Ag Innovation Program and its efforts to connect urban ag growers, bringing fresh perspectives to complex problems like food scarcity, community support, and policy- making. In our final lap, we examine the intersection of food justice and urban agriculture. We delve into the crucial role of hyper-local production and distribution of healthy food, with Qiana shedding light on innovative initiatives like the Harvest Project. As we round up the conversation, Qiana imparts the importance of harnessing the power of social media to expand the reach of her work and the overall urban agriculture movement. Tune in, and let’s unravel the tapestry of a city-turned-farm and the people that make it possible.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/AgriTechNYCOunceOfHopeKey Takeaways0:02:08 - Growing Up in NYC0:05:39 - Music, Food, and Urban Agriculture0:12:04 - Connecting Communities Through Resources0:19:33 - Building Feasible Solutions for Communities0:26:09 - Urban Agriculture and Equity in NYC0:31:45 - Innovating Hyper-Local Food Production0:37:51 - Food Sovereignty and Climate CrisisTweetable Quotes"With my work, I've been also afforded the opportunity to learn the history, the struggle, and the successes of Urban Ag leaders, land stewards who were in those same neighborhoods that people were saying, don't look, don't stop.""I always kind of felt like New York was a place for everybody, but you definitely had to be open to being open.""I think growing up at that time and being able to have that experience of seeing, music emerge and the mixing of culture, the vibe that people would come with in terms of they brought to the table in terms of food, what they brought to the table in terms of music... it really kind of helped inform what was that unique vibrancy of New York City."Resources MentionedQiana's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/qianamickieQiana's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nycurbanag/Qiana's Twitter - https://twitter.com/NYCUrbanAgQiana's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Join Samuel Bertram, the CEO and Co-Founder of OnePointOne and Willo Farm, on an inspiring podcast journey as he shares his vision for revolutionizing the way we grow and consume food through vertical farming. With a passionate drive to solve the world's poor nutrition problem, Samuel’s innovative approach includes a patented automated vertical farming solution called Opollo Farm and a direct-to-consumer marketing and sales business known as Willo. Discover the challenges faced by his companies, the significance of healthy competition, and their ultimate goal of promoting human and environmental well-being. Get ready to be inspired by Samuel’s unwavering dedication to making a lasting impact on our world.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/AgriTechNYCOunceOfHopeCEASummitKey TakeawaysDiscover Samuel’s inspiring journey from discovering nanotechnology to founding two companies that aim to revolutionize the way we grow and consume food.Uncover how Samuel’s passion for vertical farming is driven by his belief that poor nutrition is the number one problem facing humanity.Learn about Apollo, the automated vertical farming solution integrated with cutting-edge technologies, developed by OnePointOne under a patent-protected umbrella.Find out how Willo, a direct-to-consumer marketing and sales business, allows members to receive fresh produce directly to their doorstep.Explore the company's ultimate goal of promoting human and environmental health through personalized health and diet.Gain insights into the challenges faced by OnePointOne, such as adapting to global macros and capital limitations.Understand why Samuel believes in the power of competition and the positive impact of other vertical farmingcompanies.Hear Samuel’s advice on the importance of demonstrating large-scale production and having patience in scaling this technology.Tweetable Quotes“Poor nutrition of humanity is the number one problem that faces humanity quite clearly. And so we said, how can we possibly solve that problem? And we've got to take a big swing. That the problem's. Got to be big, and the solution's got to be big. Big doesn't mean fast. There's a huge conflation between big and fast. Big and fast can exist in software. Big and fast cannot exist in hardware. So big is important to us. Fast is less important to us. So when poor nutrition came up as the biggest problem, we couldn't quite find that match on the traditional farming side, couldn't quite find that match on the greenhouse farming side.”“I have very little internal negative speak. So I'm not negative on myself, really at all. None of those loops apply. So there's a lot more of the board game that it is now available to me to be critical. So I think it's just so fundamentally important to your improvement as a human and your ability to be efficient as an operator, to be able to look at yourself and see where you have flaws and deficiencies.”“Our goal is human health. Our goal is environmental health. It's much wider than that. We think we have to put one foot in front of the other mate. Believe me. We have to get the first five facilities up this year, 100 facilities next year. Once that's up and running, we're hitting real volume. Then we can start to juice the Willo side of the business more. Because health is going to become personalized. It's just flat out inevitable. When is the real question and how. So Willo is going to participate in the personalization of health, the personalization of diet.”“I reckon the best thing any vertical farming business can do for this industry and for the Earth is to demonstrate large scale production.”Resources MentionedSamuel's Website - www.opo.farmSamuel's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelbertram/Samuel's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sambcbertram/Samuel's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Join us on an exciting journey as we explore the groundbreaking world of indoor farming with Babylon Micro-Farms and their visionary CEO, Alexander Olesen. In this episode, Alexander shares his invaluable insights on sustainability, scaling, and customer satisfaction, while taking us through his remarkable entrepreneurial journey. Discover the incredible benefits of indoor farming, from its potential for local service operators and government involvement to its niche applications for self-sufficiency and unforgettable experiences. Prepare to be amazed by Babylon Micro-Farms' turnkey hydroponic farming modules and their game-changing products that are redefining the industry. With a strong focus on eliminating single- use plastic, delivering fresh and healthy crops, and fostering happy customers, this podcast uncovers the transformative impact of urban agriculture on the food service industry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn about the cutting-edge technology, sustainability efforts, and exciting future plans that make Babylon MicroFarms a true pioneer in the field.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how Babylon MicroFarms is revolutionizing indoor farming with their turnkey hydroponic farming modules, attracting attention and sparking conversations about the benefits of urban agriculture.Learn about the game-changing product, the Gallery, which makes it easier than ever to grow your own fresh food and offers features for food safety traceability and scaling.Uncover Babylon MicroFarms' commitment to sustainability, with a 55% reduction in plastic, recyclable components, and zero pesticides, aiming to set the standard for eliminating single-use plastic.Dive into the Alexanders’s journey, from wearing different hats to managing fundraising efforts, and how their decision to manufacture their own products amplifies their ability to drive down costs and complexity.Explore the company's relentless focus on happy customers and healthy crops, backed by six years of research and development for scalable success.Learn about the potential for local service operators and government involvement in the indoor farming sector, drawing parallels to the subsidization of renewable energy.Discover the exciting niche applications of indoor farming, from self-sufficiency for specific ingredients to creating special moments for seniors in senior living communities and even installing units on cruise ships.Stay tuned to witness how Babylon Micro Farms' cutting-edge technology and innovative approach will transform the food service industry and urban agriculture.Tweetable Quotes“Our goal is to empower businesses and communities to grow their own fresh food using remotely managed vertical farms. So we build turnkey modules that are sort of hydroponic farms that are self contained and then we actually run a lot of the day to day maintenance remotely so that's nutrients, PH, irrigation, lighting, all of the kind of day to day variables you need to control for optimal plant growth.""I would say just in terms of executing on our plans, that focus is everything. I think when we look at again, compared to the status quo, we have elevated the concept, it's easy to use, but we've also implemented a lot of features for food safety traceability and scaling and tracking the efficacy of the farms that we know how much is growing and who's doing it. These are really important features for large food service companies who are looking to scale onsite growing.""We're not measured by the same things, but ultimately for us, it's a lot about capturing some of the soft benefits of indoor farming that I think people often overlook. But the ability to actually grow food in front of people and do it in a way that can really change the environment."Resources MentionedAlexander's Website - https://babylonmicrofarms.com/Alexander's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-olesen-7aa4a16a/Alexander's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP2UXd18j5kjVjvtlG-GvnQAlexander's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BabylonMicroFarms/Alexander's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/babylonmicrofarms/?hl=enAlexander's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDi

Join us on an exciting journey into the world of vertical farming with Gabriel Zarafonitis, the President and Founder of FarmAnywhere. As a self-taught entrepreneur, Gabriel shares his passion for sustainable agriculture and the challenges he faced in building an ultra-high-tech farming solution. He emphasizes the importance of striking a balance between technology and farming expertise, while also highlighting the significance of quality control and exceptional customer support. Delve into the fascinating realm of container farming and gain valuable insights on educating beginner growers, understanding the marketing aspect, and staying up-to-date with cutting-edge innovations in controllers and irrigation systems. This podcast is a must-listen for urban farming enthusiasts and those eager to learn more about the future of sustainable agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how Gabriel Zarafonitis went from a self-taught entrepreneur to the President and Founder of FarmAnywhereUncover the driving forces behind Gabriel’s success and his journey into vertical farmingExplore the exciting offerings of FarmAnywhere, including container farms, mushroom farms, and leafy green farmsLearn about the challenges and philosophy behind creating a user-friendly and reliable tech solution for farmersGain insights into the importance of education, training, and support for beginner growers in container farmingUnderstand the significance of community engagement and marketing in the success of vertical farming venturesExplore the latest innovations in controllers and irrigation systemsDiscover the shift towards simpler controllers and quick deployment in the industry, with popular choices for sensor arrays and LED lightsUncover FarmAnywhere's emphasis on quality control and testing to ensure customer satisfactionDive into the practical and collaborative approach of FarmAnywhere, making urban farming accessible to all while supporting farmers and ensuring a steady supply of fresh, locally- grown produce.Tweetable Quotes“Well, I think for sure environment played a big role just because it was a need, right? It was a need to create revenue, it was a need to move. I was a bit daydreaming and inventing things, playing with Legos as well. So it wasn't really my thing. But always being self taught. That was like the drive and then I guess the entrepreneurial spirit.”“Well, if you just scroll on LinkedIn and if you follow a lot of people in the vertical farming space, you'll hear all the time, new startups save 99% on your water consumption compared to traditional farming. So that's what they expect. Right. And those numbers are really paperwork because how are you going to measure that, really? I'd like to see your study on how you measure 99% less water than that. So a lot of it is also setting expectations on it's not plug and play.”“There is no need to act like competition, like big corporate entities, right? I think that we should collaborate together, work on our strength. Everyone has strength and I think we should stop trying to do everything and do one thing really, really good and then collaborate together.”Resources MentionedGabriel's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-z-99930251/Gabriel's Website - https://farmanywhere.ag/Gabriel's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/farm_anywhereGabriel's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/farmanywhere/Gabriel's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Join Alberto Aguilar, CEO of Plantaform, as he provides a captivating and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities of the rapidly growing vertical farming industry. Discover the secrets to creating a successful product through constant innovation and adaptation, and explore the potential of sustainable agriculture. Aguilar's expertise extends to exciting developments like the world's first fogponic vertical farm, showcasing the forefront of industry advancements. Gain valuable insights not only on the future of sustainable agriculture but also on the importance of work-life balance for startup founders. If you're intrigued by the intersection of sustainability, agriculture, and entrepreneurship, this episode of the Vertical Farming Podcast is a must-listen.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover the secrets to creating a successful product in the rapidly growing vertical farming industry through constant innovation and adaptation.Uncover the challenges Plantaform faced, including over 100 iterations and determining optimal conditions for different cultivars.Explore the positive feedback and potential for vertical farming in the Middle East, where countries like the UAE, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are competing to become leaders in the field.Learn about the groundbreaking construction of the world's first fogponic vertical farm in Quebec and its potential to produce thousands of vegetables per day.Gain insights into the importance of work-life balance for startup founders and how prioritizing self-care can help prevent burnout.Tap into Alberto’s serious and insightful perspective on the challenges and opportunities of the rapidly growing vertical farming industry.Get a glimpse into the future of sustainable agriculture and the exciting potential of vertical farming.Tweetable Quotes“I don't think it's ever a waste of time or a wasted opportunity, regardless of where it could be. We've made so many connections (at Indoor AgCon) that I was not expecting, and it's just about finding like minded people on the same floor right. That you never know what doors it can open up. So, honestly, the more trade shows we go to, I feel like the more opportunities rise.”“And it's super cool because rather than doing the outbound calls, we're getting a lot of inbound requests from restaurant owners saying that we've seen this in television, we've seen this in these restaurants. We want to have the exact same thing, and everyone want to spend more money on herbs. This is fantastic.”Resources MentionedAlberto's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alberto-aguilar-a2138aa4/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantaform/Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlantaformCAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/plantaformYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@plantaformWebsite: https://plantaform.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/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryJoin Alaric Overbey, Director of GreensideUp Farm, as he discusses the transformative potential of vertical farming in addressing food security issues in underserved communities. Through his experiences in traditional farming and his passion for education, Alaric shares valuable insights on healthy eating habits and the innovative micro-farm model developed by GreensideUp Farm. Discover how education, community involvement, and partnerships with local organizations and grocery stores play a vital role in creating a more equitable food system. This eye-opening podcast episode sheds light on the power of vertical farming as a tool for positive societal change and provides inspiration for those interested in sustainable and equitable food systems.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how Alaric Overbey and Greenside Up Farm are tackling food security issues through vertical farming technology.Learn about the innovative micro-farm model that strategically places farms close to the demand for fresh produce.Explore the importance of education and community involvement in addressing food access challenges.Find out how Greenside Up Farms partners with grocery stores to provide fresh produce directly on their shelves.Gain insights into the Local Feed Purchase Program and its impact on local farmers and the community.Uncover the transformative project of converting a produce unfriendly grocery store into a vertical grocery farm.Understand the significance of education and partnerships with organizations like the Culinary Academy and Nevada Partners.Discover how Greenside Up Farms is making a difference in fighting food deserts and promoting a sustainable and equitable food system.Tweetable Quotes“I never really even had a real understanding or relationship with food desert. So really going out there and seeing a food desert and then really wanting to kind of do research on the cause of those things, I just started doing a lot of research on food security, what happens to these communities, how it happens to these communities, and then what's being done to fix these communities.”“Really for a lot of communities, it's really starting off with the education, understanding what food access is and then how do you start to reclaim that and developing a model around that. So it's not just saying, hey, you put a farm over here, you put a grocery store over here in this food desert, it's going to fix the problem. Harry Duran: Sure. And that's what a lot of people think from the outside looking in.”“And I don't think there's one system that fits all. I think it's a combination of utilizing all of these systems and really using that to address the issue of access to food because there's a very economic aspect of that that a lot of them is missed.”Resources MentionedAlaric's Website - https://greensideup.farmAlaric's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaric-overbey-27248594/Alaric's Twitter - https://twitter.com/slumgardensAlaric's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryJoin us for an engaging conversation with Jonathan Murray, co-founder, and CEO of Adapt Agtech, where we delve into his remarkable journey in the booming vertical farming industry. With a diverse background spanning banking, clean tech, defense, and Medtech, Murray shares how he leveraged his experience to navigate regulations and find solutions to complex problems. We explore Adapt Agtech's growth and its unique focus on producing gourmet mushrooms in hyper-local environments, including the company's hybrid business model and its plans for expansion into the US market. Jonathan also shares his thoughts on the future of urban agriculture, sustainability, and the importance of bringing new talent into the industry. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the fascinating world of vertical farming and sustainable agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how Adapt is leading the way in the booming vertical farming industry with their focus on mushroomsLearn about the journey of founding Forage Hyperfoods and the importance of local mushroom productionExplore how Adapt Agtech navigated complex regulations and developed a hybrid business model for vertical farmingFind out about the colorful packaging and recipes of Hardy Foods, Adapt Agtech's retail product lineUnderstand how Adapt Agtech is expanding into the US market and developing a platform for urban agricultureHear Jonathan’s thoughts on bringing new people into the industry to solve the world's biggest problemsTweetable Quotes"We activated a new restaurant in the city of Toronto called The Butcher Chef. As you can imagine, a lot of meat at The Butcher Chef, and they're using mushrooms as an entire dish. It looks like a bouquet of mushrooms, and it's a standalone main course. That's pretty incredible to see.""We're trying to advance access to sustainable food. That's the mission of the company. And we're supported from Impact funds, which is awesome because they believe that that's the ultimate goal.”“We are averaging zero food spoilage because if we overgrow, we're donating to community kitchens and food banks. So not only do we have space in our containers to grow and sell and be a commercial enterprise and make money, for sure, but we're also reserving portions of those growers to donate"Resources MentionedJonathan's Website - https://www.adapt.ag/Jonathan's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-murray-74747813/Jonathan's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/adaptagtech/Jonathan's Twitter - https://twitter.com/AdaptAgtechJonathan's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/adaptagtechJonathan's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@adaptagtechConnect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Marcos Enriquez, Founder of ISIFarmer, discusses his passion for vertical farming and his company's innovative approach to urban farming. He focuses on the challenges and opportunities of their urban farmer co-working platform, SI Farmer, which aims to provide fresh, healthy, and locally grown produce to urban consumers. Marcos explains how ISIFarmer is leading the charge in the vertical farming movement by using a box theory to create a controlled environment for each farmer, partnering with suppliers, and training farmers for consistent quality. He also shares his vision for expanding the business and scaling it in different cities and places where there is a demand for locally grown products.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how vertical farming can provide fresh and healthy produce to urban consumersLearn how ISIFarmer is leading the charge in vertical farming with its SI Farmer platformFind out how ISIFarmer is using a box theory to create a completely controlled environment for each urban farmerUnderstand the challenges and opportunities associated with vertical farming through Marcos Enriquez's insightsExplore the potential for growth and expansion in the vertical farming industryHear about ISIFarmer's consulting work with the city of Malaga and its plans for international investment and expansionTweetable Quotes"The latest probably was a blockchain company that I built to do the traceability of vegetables from seed to plate. And that didn't really have too much involved with sharing. But I did manage to see that there was a big, big problem with all the agri food supply chain from start to finish. And that made me look into it a lot further.""We started with a minimal viable product that we've produced ourselves in different places. And now we're working on the construction of the final or the first co-working vertical farming co-working in Madrid. It's about 400. It will have the capability of doing all four areas that we think are essential.""Well, obviously the biggest challenge is what you said basically is training the Duran farmers and making sure that the produce is high quality and comes out with the help of all these urban farmers, local uber farmers. So that's going to be the big challenge."Resources MentionedMarcos' Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcosenriquez/?locale=es_ESMarcos' Website - https://isifarmer.com/Marcos' Twitter - https://twitter.com/marcosenriquezMarcos' Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryThis episode we are joined by Daphne Preuss, the founder and CEO of CarbonBook, on an inspiring journey to make the world a greener place. As an experienced entrepreneur and sustainability advocate, she shares valuable insights on reducing carbon emissions in the vertical farming space. Discover the secrets of sustainable agriculture, learn how to manage carbon footprints, and explore the opportunities available in this growing industry. From understanding soil health to rethinking fertilizer use, Daphne offers detailed guidance on making vertical farming more environmentally friendly. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and find out how you can get involved in creating a more sustainable future.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysLearn about Daphne’s passion for sustainable agriculture and reducing carbon emissionsDiscover how CarbonBook helps farmers measure and report on their carbon footprint, and how it can benefit the vertical farming industryExplore Daphne’s entrepreneurial background and successes in agriculture, AI, and softwareGain insights into the importance of reducing carbon emissions in the vertical farming space, and how the industry can take a leadership role in sustainabilityUnderstand the recent advances in research on soil health and fertilizer use, and their impact on carbon captureFind out how consumers may compare vertical farming to traditional outdoor farming in terms of carbon emissions when making purchasing decisionsLearn about CarbonBook's breakthroughs in the indoor farming space, as well as their partnerships and accoladesDiscover Daphne’s advice for scientists in the vertical farming community to not be intimidated by the business world, and how they have all the skills needed to succeedTweetable Quotes“Since the journey of finding my own business, I've also found it really interesting and exciting to help other entrepreneurs who are going through that same process.”“I often say it's really rewarding to help new founders avoid the mistakes I made over the years. The first time you do something, it's always a learning experience.”“I would say that early on there was huge exuberance for indoor farming, vertical farming especially. Lots of money being thrown at it. I think as it's matured now, we've seen some of those businesses operate successfully and some of them really struggle. So today reality is hitting people in the face.”Resources MentionedDaphne's Website - https://www.carbonbookinc.comDaphne's Linkedin - linkedin.com/in/daphne-preuss-26031bDaphne's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode, Eric Levesque returns for Round 3 to share his journey of being a former gamer and professional player and the twists and turns that led him to the world of vertical farming. Eric emphasizes the importance of hyper-local food and why he’s excited about the potential for new crops like mushrooms to play an important part of in the future of indoor grown. Eric also highlights the significance of reflecting on one's goals and values, pivoting business models, and building a culture that values respect and flexibility. Cultivatd's unorthodox hiring process and emphasis on creating a culture of respect and flexibility make it a leader in sustainable and innovative business practices for a brighter future for the food industry.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how Eric’s experiences in gaming and poker prepared him for the world of entrepreneurship.Learn why reflecting on one's goals and values is important for avoiding burnout and building a sustainable business.Find out why vertical farming is becoming a necessity for providing both human food and animal feed.Explore the movement towards hyper-local food, where food is grown and distributed within a 25-50 mile radius, and the benefits it offers over traditional local food.Understand the importance of pivoting business models and being introspective to avoid getting lost in success or blaming others for failures.Learn about Cultivatd's unorthodox hiring process and culture that values respect and flexibility.Get excited about the future of the food industry and the potential for mushrooms as a part of the future of food.Discover the growing interest in vertical farming and the potential for larger conferences and more attendees.Find out how Cultivatd is leading the way towards a brighter future for fresh, locally grown produce.Tweetable Quotes“You need some insane mental endurance. You would not believe how much focus it requires because in those games you're playing in real time against just one other person usually and the tiniest mistake can cost you a lot of prize money.”“It's always been go go, but I'm pretty good at reflecting back. I think it's really important for you to just not lose yourself in that process and to reflect on what it is you're doing, because your goals will change quite a bit throughout your life. And if you're not paying attention to that, I think you can get kind of lost in that rat race of you're just chasing something that never ends.”“These farms that reduce 90% to 95% of water, they will be encouraged and incentivized in ways that we can't think of right now because we just don't have a choice. Currently, about 25% of all the people on the planet already don't have access to clean drinking water. 25% is staggering. And that's getting worse and worse. There's over 1.5 million people a year that die just due to lack of water intake every year on the planet. So these problems are huge and they're only getting bigger.”“You have companies like Unfold and some of these newer ones that do seed genetics, that are working with seeds to make them have a better taste profile, a better crunch profile, better flavor, more nutrients.”Resources MentionedEric’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-levesque-a03a33163/?originalSubdomain=ca Eric’s Email – [email protected] Website – https://cultivatd.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/VerticalFarmPodSubscribe to our newsletters!AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.comThe Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryWe kick off Season 8 of the podcast, with Sonia Lo, the CEO of Unfold AG and a prominent figure in the vertical farming industry. She shares her insights on the latest developments in indoor farming, including the role of genetics in improving crop yield and taste. We also discuss the importance of profitability for the industry's scalability and the potential of next-generation agriculture. Sonia’s background in law, management consulting, investment banking provides a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and investment in the agriculture industry. Listeners will be inspired by her passion for delicious food and diversity in the investment process. Tune in for a fascinating discussion about the future of agriculture and entrepreneurship in the 21st century.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover the latest developments in indoor farming and how it's becoming a viable part of agricultural infrastructure.Find out why genetics are going to play an incredibly important role in indoor farming and how it will make it more attractive to consumers.Explore how Unfold is using molecular information about plants to improve crop yields and taste through computational breeding.Understand the importance of profitability for the vertical farming industry to scale and become a viable part of agricultural infrastructure.Understand how venture funds are starting to embrace diversity and why emotion and bias still exist in the investment process.Discover Sonia Lo's passion for food, including Korean cuisine and her love for pupusas.Learn how Sonia martial arts background instilled discipline and physical and mental awareness that stayed with her for life.Gain insight into how Sonia Lo's extensive background in law, management consulting, and investment banking has prepared her to lead Unfold and to help shape the future of the vertical farming industry.Tweetable Quotes“I’ve always believed that the genetics piece of indoor growing is going to be transformative. I think that not just for yield, which of course is the big target, but also for taste and texture.”“Irrespective of what type of form factor you're growing in, irrespective of where you are in terms of your distance to urbanization, I think that genetics will play an incredibly important role.”“I think we have a brilliant future as long as we act with integrity and focus on the delicious.”Resources MentionedSonia's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonia-lo-27527a/Sonia's Website - https://unfold.ag/Sonia's Twitter - https://twitter.com/unfold_agSonia's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAiDfy7j9WFmsIT39zWQU6QSonia's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode, David Farquhar, CEO of Intelligent Growth Solutions (IGS), delves into the potential of indoor agritech and how the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased interest in deglobalization and relocalization. He explains how IGS is providing the technology and expertise to enable farmers to grow crops with precision and accuracy, and how IGS is partnering with local councils, food banks, and educational institutions to develop innovative solutions. Learn how indoor agriculture has the potential to revolutionize the food industry and create a more sustainable and secure future.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how the pandemic has caused people to rethink their food sources and look to indoor agricultureLearn how IGS provides technology and expertise to enable others to grow crops at an industrial scaleUnderstand why data is important in indoor agriculture and how IGS is using it to create innovative solutionsFind out how IGS is partnering with the local community and educational institutions to make vertical farming more mainstreamExplore how IGS is developing new business models to ensure yield, quality, and deliveryDiscover why the indoor agriculture industry is poised for exponential growth in the years aheadTweetable Quotes“I would say that indoor ag in general has benefited more than it has lost from this pandemic, because I think everywhere in the world is really reevaluating how it sources its food. We have this additional burden of Brexit here in the UK. Every part of the world that we've been speaking to, people are thinking about deglobalization relocalization and how that's going to just make things a bit more secure, a bit less dependent on other areas.”“In most climates, that really does mean having to move stuff that you can move economically and environmentally indoors, and that's tougher in some places than others, but I think it's causing everyone to look much more seriously at the viability of indoor ag in general, whether that's aquaculture or livestock.”“Our covenant is that we're a tech vendor, you guys are the farmers, you're the growers, you know how to do this stuff. We'll just give you a better set of tools.”Resources MentionedDavid's Website - https://www.intelligentgrowthsolutions.com/David's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgfarquharDavid's Twitter - https://twitter.com/DavidGFarquharDavid's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryJoin us as we explore the exciting world of vertical farming with Alexander Kappes, the CEO of Greener Crop. He shares his passion for CEA and explains how Greener Crop provides comprehensive farm management solutions for clients. Alexander discusses the potential for hydroponic farming to address food security issues and his vision for Greener Crop to lead the charge in this growing industry. He also talks about the challenges and opportunities within the industry, the focus on resilient crops, and the need for education and reliable data to shape the industry's reputation, particularly in the Middle East, where Dubai is an ideal location for vertical farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysUncover the potential of hydroponic farming in the Middle East and its advantagesLearn about Alexander’s experience at Groupon the origin story of Greener CropExplore the market opportunities in the region and why it is ideal for vertical farmingThe challenges of securing offtake agreements and the educational pieces needed to generate interest in the industryHow Greener Crop is leading the charge in the vertical farming industry with their comprehensive approachTweetable Quotes“I think Dubai is a great place to call home. There's a high degree of safety. It's phenomenal infrastructure. There's a lot of business opportunities. The weather is always sunny and blue skies now. Dubai has this incredible mentality and this incredible attitude.”“I think everyone realized how vulnerable these countries are. And so there was an immediate shift in government prioritization in public policy and subsidies that were being granted. There was a very quick shift in the regulations where they, for the first time, allowed foreigners to own farming businesses. Previously, that wasn't possible.”“My focus has been on growing crops that are as resilient as possible, both from a growing condition point of view, but also from a market dynamic point of view. And so we grow almost exclusively in all of our greenhouses tomatoes, bell peppers, chilies. And we found that that strategy works really well. Those are among the most consumed crops. And the way we build our business plans, the way we build our visibility studies, the way we build our forecasts, is by projecting that we're going to achieve average yields with these, and we're going to sell them into wholesale.”“I think we just need to as an industry get to a point where we are a bit more conservative with our projections, where we're a bit more transparent about the things that we don't know. My feeling is that with the VC money that had come into the industry over the last two years, people started behaving like tech entrepreneurs.”Resources MentionedAlexander's Website - https://www.greenercrop.comAlexander's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-m-kappes/Alexander's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/greenercrop/Alexander's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iedFBrqqK4&t=1s&ab_channel=GreenerCropAlexander's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode, you’ll hear Zale Tabakman's inspiring journey of revolutionizing the way we think about farming. Zale shares his vision for providing locally grown, ready-to-eat salads to a global market, as well as his patent-pending technology for growing 60 different vegetables. He emphasizes the potential of vertical farming to create good-paying jobs, address the climate crisis, and provide consistent high-quality salads to McDonald's at all 35,000 locations worldwide. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative solutions and sustainable agriculture.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysLearn how Zale’s interest began with a personal goal of finding healthy food options for his children, which led him to explore the potential of vertical farming.How Local Grown Salads focuses on scalability and sells its technology to farmers who can operate under the company's branding and procedures or as a private label.Zale’s ultimate goal is to service McDonald's by selling them salads at all 35,000 locations around the world, with consistent taste and quality.Zale’s focus on increasing yield rather than reducing the cost of electricity, and looks at how to reduce costs by focusing on the pennies that get repeated over and over again.Why Zale believes that indoor vertical farming is a solution to the climate crisis and a way to create good-paying jobs in urban areas and food deserts.How Local Grown Salads is leading the way in the indoor vertical farming industry with a patent-pending technology capable of growing 60 different vegetables.Tweetable Quotes“I’m always failing, but I'm always failing forward. My time of history that I love is the 1860s to the early 1920s, and the number of guys who have been very successful in massive failures are just unbelievable.”“So I'm riding my bicycle, we're running around, I'm seeing all these roofs. And then I did a little bit of market research. I said, well, why don't we just grow the stuff on the roofs of buildings, right?”“My goal is actually to service McDonald's. I want to keep the end in mind. I want to be the guy that sells to McDonald's 35,000 locations around the world, salads every day. And when you eat salad in Tokyo, it'll taste exactly as the same salad as in Toronto or in LA or in Paris. That, to me, is scale, right?”“Most people focus in on reducing the cost of electricity. That's dumb. It's really, really dumb. They really do like Zale and focus in on how to increase the yield for every kilowatt of electricity you're using. They're looking at the wrong formula.”“The future is incredibly rosy. Okay, so people are screwed up and big deal. They had too much money, they wasted the money. They got themselves nice cars and whatever, but the industry is going there. There are people who are growing. There are people who are selling.”Resources MentionedZale's Website - http://LocalGrownSalads.com & https://igrownews.com/agtech-companies/local-grown-salads/Zale's Linkedin - https://LinkedIn.com/in/ZaleTabakmanZale's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryJoin us as we explore the world of vertical farming with Jaz Singh, the founder and CEO of Innovation Agritech Group. In this podcast, Jaz discusses how his exposure to the farming industry in India and his family's generational farming background led him to explore innovative solutions for food security. You will learn about the challenges facing the agriculture industry, including energy costs, and how IAG is working towards reducing them. Singh also shares how IAG's modular and scalable solutions are enabling growers and users to quickly turn a profit while improving sustainability and disrupting the industry. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and farming, and the future of food production.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysDiscover how IAG is revolutionizing traditional farming methods with the help of technologyLearn about the increasing importance of food security and how governments and organizations are partnering with vertical farming companiesFind out about IAG's certifications and how it provides consumers with confidence in the audit trail and traceabilityExplore the challenges IAG faces in terms of energy cost and how they are working with renewable energy partnersDiscover how IAG is helping their growers and users of their technology become profitableUnderstand how the talent pool for the vertical farming industry is widening and how young farmers are disrupting traditional farmingTweetable Quotes“The key for us is that any user of our technology is making profit efficiently and utilizing their energy lower than what they should be doing and really achieving those sort of targets and what renewables can plug in.”“The talent pool is definitely widening up, which is great. New blood within the industry is very, very good. You're seeing a lot of young farmers that are coming into the industry, people that don't want to do things traditionally, definitely seeing the way that AgTech and vertical farming is shaking up and disrupting the industry.”Resources MentionedJaz' Website - https://iagri-tech.com/Jaz' Linkedin - www.linkedin.com/company/innovationagritechJaz' Twitter - https://twitter.com/iAgriTechJaz' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/innovationagritech/Jaz' Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/innovationagritechJaz' Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeskh65-fwOV313f737Pg-QJaz' Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this podcast, Emiliano Gutierrez shares his entrepreneurial journey of creating a sustainable food system through vertical farming. He discusses his vision for using technology, such as solar energy, LEDs, blockchain, and NFTs, to transform the way we think about growing food. Gutierrez shares his personal experiences of building a business from the ground up and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. He also talks about his plans for leveraging blockchain and other technologies to power a decentralized food system. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in startups, agriculture, or global solutions and who wants to become an agent of change for a better planet.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysLearn how Emiliano’s diverse background and experience inspired him to innovate and create an impact in the food industryFind out how his entrepreneurial journey led him to create a vertical farming business with a hybrid energy model using LED lights and natural lightsDiscover how Raiz Farms is leveraging technology, including blockchain and NFTs, to create a decentralized and traceable food systemHear about their innovative modular 3D printed farm wall made of biomaterials, intended for local communities, co-working spaces, and regenerative villagesLearn about Raiz’s mission to provide sustainable bamboo housing in Myanmar and a co-working space in Lisbon that grows crops for communitiesFind out how Emiliano is constantly challenging himself and his team to ask tough questions about their purpose and impact, and how you can connect with him and his team to learn more.Tweetable Quotes“I felt I had the right expertise or at least the right perspective to be able to tackle it in a different manner and actually make something worthwhile that could be made different and take it to market effectively.”“I think people are constantly looking to give to solid causes and to have animpact. So it's been, I would say, not easy, but easier to bring on boardtalented people to join the mission, because it's something that peoplebelieve in.”“We went on the hunt, researching for lights that were able to be dimmableand that could be dynamically adapted and adjusted to the intensity of thesolar light on any given day. And then also installed our own little microgrid. So we have ten solar panels installed that can feed almost all of ourenergy needs.”Resources MentionedEmiliano's Website - www.raiz.farm & https://igrownews.com/agtech-companies/raiz-farms/Emiliano's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/emgtzj18/Emiliano's Twitter - https://twitter.com/RaizFarmsEmiliano's Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/raizverticalfarm/Raiz Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/raizverticalfarmsRaiz Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/raiz-vertical-farms/Raiz Twitter - https://twitter.com/RaizFarmsConnect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode, I speak with fellow Ag podcaster Trevor Williams and we explore the latest trends in the agriculture industry. We cover topics ranging from vertical farming and regenerative agriculture to cellular agriculture and food production for space exploration. On Farm Traveler, Trevor interviews farmers, ranchers and entrepreneurs around the world, as they provide listeners with valuable insight and education about the industry. This one’s a little different and will give you a peek into our podcasting worlds!Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysAn introduction to Trevor Williams, a master of micro farming and the host of the Farm Traveler podcast!Learn how Trevor has spent years learning from farmers and ranchers across the United States and the insights he’s discovered on the podcast.Trevor grew up in Bluntstown, Florida and was an active member of Future Farmers of America in high schoolLearn how podcasts can be focused on a niche and build an audience, with Trevor sharing his thoughts on how to best market a podcast.A deeper dive into cellular agriculture and the future of food, discussing the new technologies being developed and how farmers are taking steps to mitigate the impacts of climate change.Trevor talks about his upcoming farm tours and his passion for direct to consumer routesTweetable Quotes“Before I actually started teaching, I really wanted to do this micro thing and travel around and actually learn from farmers and ranchers and see what they're actually doing on a farm.”“It's weird marketing a podcast because you want to market it everywhere, but everybody's listening on podcasts. So you've got to have your marketing on podcasts and guest on other podcasts, be on other podcasts and all that good stuff.”“I think podcasts are awesome. We're a little bit biased here.”“They're really shaking up the whole distribution model, the whole food supply chain, which I think is awesome, because when they do that, not only does the consumer get what I think is a better product, a more local product, a fresher product, the farmer is also getting a little bit more money, which I think is huge.”Resources MentionedTrevor's Website - https://thefarmtraveler.com/Trevor's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-williams-871987125/Trevor's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheFarmTravelerTrevor's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/farm_traveler/Trevor's Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheFarmTravelerTrevor's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/farmtravelerTrevor's Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryCaleb Wilkins, co-founder of the innovative vertical farming startup Renaissance AG, sits down with Harry Duran, to discuss their revolutionary approach to creating safe and sustainable livestock feed. Listen in to learn how Renaissance AG is creating a consistent, reliable, and on-farm premium feed for livestock producers, as well as tackling the challenges of food independence and security.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysUtah-based vertical farming startup, Renaissance AG, is leading the way in innovative agricultural practicesCo-founder Caleb Wilkins and his partners, aim to address the challenges of food, water, and electricity accessTheir focus on forages as a solution to inconsistent and unpredictable livestock feed costsCreated an on-farm forage production system to automate the process of sprouting grains for animal feedOvercame challenges such as inefficiency and unpredictability in their initial product designWorking on innovations to improve delivery and quality of seed used in fodder, and creating targeted feeds for different animalsTweetable Quotes“That's something that we care immensely about, we think the AG producer deserves a very meaningful place in the global conversations and that the AG producer is close to the ground, they're close to the production of life, and they have a unique view in this world.”“We think there's room for a lot of other seed types to be included to target feed certain types of animals.”“We have come quite a way since then, even though it's only been 2 years and 9 months. We have a machine that will produce 16,000 pounds of feed in a day."Resources MentionedCaleb's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebwilkins/Caleb's Website - https://renaissanceag.com/Caleb's Twitter - https://twitter.com/AgRenaissanceCaleb's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/renaissanceagriculture/Caleb's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/renaissanceagricultureCaleb's Email - [email protected]'s Youtube -https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJREMQ6YTBVzKqY5pcBLAUgConnect 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/

Episode SummaryIn this episode of the podcast, Harry Duran interviews Tobias Peggs, the CEO & Co-founder of Square Roots, a leading vertical farming company. Tobias shares the company's innovative approach to creating a more sustainable and resilient business, from their technology platform to their sustainability initiatives. He highlights the company's focus on reducing carbon emissions and environmentally friendly packaging, as well as the importance of staying strong and focused on delivering products that customers want. Tobias encourages his peers in the industry to join Square Roots in paving the way towards a more sustainable future. Listen to learn how Square Roots is making strides in sustainability through vertical farming.Thanks to Our SponsorsCEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/Key TakeawaysTobias shares how Square Roots has been exploring new ways to grow and manage their farms, from the software solutions they've developed to reduce human error, to the materials they use to reduce carbon emissions.Square Roots also has an impact strategy with four pillars: diversity, equity and inclusion; employee empowerment; environmental sustainability; and community engagement.Tobias also talks about how the industry is currently in the trough of disillusionment, and how current macroeconomic conditions are amplifying this. He encourages his peers to stay strong and focus on delivering products customers want.Tweetable Quotes“Can we grow initially? Right? And then, what software do we build to help train farmers and sort of minimize human errors in day to day production.”“The steel that we use, the concrete that we use in the foundation pads, in the manufacturing of those raw materials, they're pretty intense in terms of carbon emissions. So now as we think about future farms that we're deploying, we've had to relook at the design.”“We’ve always thought about running Square Roots with a triple bottom line mindset. So do it in a way that's good for people planning as well as profits.”Resources MentionedTobias’ Website - https://www.squarerootsgrow.com/Tobias’ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobiaspeggs/Tobias’ Twitter - https://twitter.com/tobiaspeggsTobias’ Email - [email protected] 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/Sponsor LinksCultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatdCultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/🎙️🎙️🎙️Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCastDiscover the best podcast services in the world at The Podosphere: https://www.thepodosphere.com/