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!

FarmAnywhere

Horti Agri Next MEA

0:00:00 - Chris’ Introduction to Vertical Farming

0:08:28 - Connecting Cultures Through Food and Travel

0:15:33 - Challenges of Financing and Building Trust in Farming

0:20:48 - Challenges and Traits of Vertical Farming

0:28:19 - Considerations for Funding Indoor Farms

0:38:40 - Investor Perspective on Sustainable Agriculture

0:45:25 - Cash Flow and Trust in Business

"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."

Chris' LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisrawley/

Harvest Returns LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10945364

We Are the New Farmers - https://www.wearethenewfarmers.com/

Chris' Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/harvestreturns

Chris' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/harvestreturns/

Chris' Twitter - https://twitter.com/HarvestReturns

Chris' Email - [email protected]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

FarmAnywhere

CEA Summit East

0:00:03 - 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 Agriculture

0:34:25 - Flexible Irrigation and Material Types

0:44:31 - The Future of Vertical Farming

"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."

Tinia's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/re-nuble

Tinia's Website - https://www.re-nuble.com

Tinia's Email - [email protected]

Tinia's Twitter - https://twitter.com/Re_Nuble

Tinia's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/re_nuble/?hl=en

Tinia's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ReNuble/

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

CEA Summit East

Horti Agri Next MEA

0:00:00 - Discussion on Art and Career Journey

0:13:14 - Skytree's ESG Compliance Journey

0:28:47 - CO2 Capture Technology for Vertical Farms

0:43:26 - Insights on the Vertical Farming Industry

"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."

Rob's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/robvanstraten

Rob's Website - https://www.skytree.eu/

Rob's Email - [email protected]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

CEA Summit East

Horti Agri Next MEA

0:00:01 - 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 Stories

"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."

Ralph's Website - www.zayndu.com

Ralph's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ralphweirceo/

Ralph's Email - [email protected]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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!

Vertifarm - Use code VFPODCAST23

CEA Summit East

0:00:20 - Navigating the CEO Journey

0:03:44 - Love for Tech and Electronics Origins

0:21:50 - Ubuntu Wellness and Growing Nutritious Food

0:26:36 - Conference Travel and Networking Discussion

0:33:43 - Energy Efficiency in Farming Innovations

0:39:26 - Loneliness and Challenges of Entrepreneurship

0:43:04 - Importance of Social Component in Organizations

"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."

Robin's Website - https://canobiagtech.com/

Robin's Linkedin - http://www.linkedin.com/company/71643741

Robin's Email - [email protected]

Robin's Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/canobitech

Robin's Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/canobitech

Robin's Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/CanobiTechnologies

Robin's Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@canobiagtech

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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!

Vertifarm - Use code VFPODCAST23

CEA Summit East

Horti Agri Next MEA

0:00:03 - 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 Farming

Lotte Van's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lotte-van-rijn-49947710/

Lotte Van's Email - [email protected]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

🎙️🎙️🎙️

Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/

Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/

00:01 - 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 Chicago

Mary Kathryn's Website - www.ftp.farm

Mary Kathryn's Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-scala- 838a56b3/

Mary Kathryn's Email - [email protected]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/

Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/

00:00 - 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 Connected

Nick'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]

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.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.

CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/

Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/

VertiFarm

Horti Agri Next MEA

03:41 – 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 Christine

Christine’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-net

VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast

VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

Subscribe to our newsletters!

AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com

The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/

Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/

Cultivatd’s Website – https://cultivatd.com/

Cultivatd’s Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cultivatdco/

Cultivatd’s Twitter – https://twitter.com/cultivatd

Cultivatd’s Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cultivatd/

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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast

Mentioned in this episode:

AgTech Companies

https://agtechcompanies.com

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.

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03:41 – 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 Michael

Michael’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sichenzia-74b1105a/

From Mary With Love – https://www.facebook.com/FromMaryWithLove/

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VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod

VFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/

VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPod

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