Lucie and David discuss the origins and evolution of Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) within the work of the Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems. They explore how FRNs were conceived as a way to combine participatory research with large-scale data and reflect on ongoing debates around embedded scaling, participation, and the distinction between FRNs and approaches such as Participatory Action Research (PAR). The conversation highlights both the promise and the practical challenges of building research systems that are deeply contextual while capable of generating broader learning and impact.