CropTalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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