S10E126 Alex Babich / Nuravine - Cultivating the Future: From Startup Entrepreneur to AI-Driven CEA Innovator

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

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

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Connecting Music and Agriculture09:38 Career Evolution and Clean Tech Lobbying16:19 Origin and Ideal Clients of SpectraGrow27:53 LED Innovation and Energy Efficiency31:34 Collaboration and Growth in Vertical Farming44:18 Power of Mastermind GroupsTweetable Quotes"When I took a course called Truth, Love, and Marketing here in Boulder, one of the exercises was to describe your creative process. It was so easy to describe my creative process with DJing and music, and then I saw the parallels in how I bring that creative energy to launching an entrepreneurial company. How we market, how we sell, how we talk about what we do—it all has roots in that creative process from music.""We often make recommendations to relay out a farm based on lighting, and we show that if we reorganize the farm in a certain way, we could get much better performance out of the lighting strategy. My advice is always to bring us in as early as possible in the planning process because our ability to add value decreases the later we're brought into the project.""The intuition is a huge part of decision-making in business, and it's a weird word to use because people in business like spreadsheets, they like numbers, they like analysis. But at the end of the day, you have to interpret the data, and there's a point where you've got to trust other sensors that might not be so obvious that you could put on a spreadsheet, but are important things to consider."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://www.spectragrow.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/spectragrow_incFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/spectragrowLinkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/spectragrowYoutube - https://www.youtube.com/@spectragrowConnect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Growing Up in NYC10:25 Evolution of Teens for Food Justice17:26 Building Resilient Community Farming Organization25:09 Urban Farming Impact and Student Success30:33 Expanding Urban Agriculture and Food Access35:46 Letting Go and Trusting Your Team41:19 Navigating Mission Creep in Vertical Farming46:15 Teen Food Justice Organization PromotionTweetable Quotes"One of the things that was really amazing about growing up in New York, I think, was the level of independence that you have when you're really very young. Being able to walk to school by yourself, go places with your friends by yourself, that independence gives you a perspective on the world that's really different than when you grow up in a car culture.""I think that service is an incredible way to get people to look outside of their own self and their own interests and to understand that we're only going to thrive if we're all thriving together.""I think that if you never have the experience of really needing to show that level of vulnerability and see that you're gonna survive, that yeah, you miss something. I think that's a really important honing process that has served me. It was extremely hard, but again, I try to approach things by saying what is the beneficial lying underneath this thing that didn't go the way I planned."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://teensforfoodjustice.org/Twitter - https://twitter.com/tffjinitiativeInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/teensforfoodjustice/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/katherine.soll/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/teensforfoodjustice/Youtube - <a...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Innovation and Collaboration in Vertical Farming09:48 Collaboration and Progress in Farming15:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Vertical Farming26:35 Vertical Farming Industry Trends and Leadership32:11 Leadership in Vertical Farming CollaborationTweetable Quotes"We don't inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children, and here's our chance to play our role in paying back a little for our kids, which in so many ways I think is important.""The right model is definitely going to be co-opetition. We have to recognize we all need to develop and protect stuff that makes us unique and special, but at the same time, we're all going to benefit from things like common R&amp;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 - <a...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Growing Up in NYC and Carmel08:11 Future City With Vertical Farming12:39 The Journey of Nuravine22:41 Choosing Between Pump Systems in Agriculture26:39 Cannabis Entrepreneurship and Pump Systems29:42 Building Nuravine35:38 The Advanced and Flexible Dosing System41:15 Continuous Nutrient Dosing in Farming Benefits45:56 Expanding Product Development and Funding Opportunities54:52 AI and the Future of Farming01:00:11 Connecting With NuravineTweetable Quotes"I love learning math, I want to understand it all, and I started to have this vision of, I really want to know math because I want to like look outside and I want to see equations, I want to see the world in a mathematical way.""There are enough resources on earth for everyone to have a very high standard of living and in a certain sense, the monetary system can get in the way of that.""They have a competition where you could either win 25,000 or 50,000 dollars. And I went to him and I asked, do you want to start a business together?"Resources MentionedNuravine Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nuravine/Personal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alex.babich/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-babich-nuravine/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@nuravine7984Website - https://nuravine.com/Connect With UsVFP - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcastVFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPodVFP Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/direct/inbox/VFP Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - <a href="https://www.getrevue.co/profile/verticalfarmingpodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Exploring Worldview and Career Choices16:13 The Evolution of Plant Dynamics25:10 Shift Towards Detailed Microeconomics in AgTech36:13 Challenges and Opportunities in CEA Development44:56 Communication Challenges in the CEA Industry52:14 Advancing CEA Infrastructure for Fresh ProduceTweetable Quotes"What pays for the nation's bills is the earnings of the people. And if you do all kinds of analysis on this question different places, different points of time what determines GDP per capita you will find that the most powerful explanatory variable is the cost of extracting energy.""Now I am seeing a big shift from scale to super detailed microeconomics and unit economics... there's now, I think, full appreciation that you need to come in and have some kind of a corporate structure around your production facility, which includes sales and marketing and should include offtake agreements, such that you have a business plan that is more than just a design of a facility before you begin.""I want to make economics more actionable because it is very helpful. It can clarify strategy. But how you bridge that gap, to take something that feels so esoteric and far-flung from the immediate problems people are trying to address, and communicate it in a simple way that it can be adopted that's always a challenge."Resources 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

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 The Journey of a Hydroponic Farmer14:00 Myths and Mistakes in CEA Industry23:00 Challenges and Myths of Vertical Farming26:34 Cyclical Indoor Farming Technologies30:57 AmHydro's Tools for Growers45:41 Indoor Farming Tips and Wisdom53:29 Social Media and YouTube for AmHydroTweetable Quotes"The process that makes up traditional farming are no different... We're using different tools, but the process is exactly the same.""The idea of CEA controlled environment agriculture really, again, it's not about technology. It's about taking the equipment, the tools, the methods, the technologies that we have available and farming with them. Agriculture.""We're not trying to develop a technology and say, hey, buy our technology because it's really cool. We actually wanna come to the industry and say, here's a tool that we've developed based on your needs, based on where your pain points are."Resources MentionedEmail - [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 - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 Entrepreneurship and Vertical Farming Journey07:20 Learning and Collaboration in Business Growth14:28 Education and Marketing of Saffron Challenges21:18 Saffron Farm CEO Discusses Industry Insights29:20 Relationships in Business37:36 Challenges and Growth in Vertical Farming43:46 The Future of Vertical FarmingTweetable Quotes“I need to get off my competitiveness in some way and I found business, a way to where I can do this."“It's very hard in the beginning to get it running. But I think when you get the first results in the first section and then it's so snowballs into a big thing."Resources MentionedWebsite - https://velesfarming.com/Email - [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/VerticalFarmPodVertical Farming Jobs - http://verticalfarmingjobs.comVertical Farming Weekly - <a...

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 SponsorsBio520AgTech Weekly Review Key Takeaways00:00 From Industrial Design to Vertical Farming15:33 Biomimicry, Vertical Farming, and Product Development31:17 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience36:48 Vertical Farming Industry and Its Challenges45:11 Join Our Urban Farming CommunityTweetable Quotes"We shouldn't try to disconnect people from farming, because we have been doing it since thousands of years.""It's a huge potential of impact that agriculture has because it's a holistic topic. It regards the side engineering, agronomy, biology, sociology, economics, everything. So for me, it's super stimulating to learn of so different topics and see how they can change and how they have impacted societies.""Since billions of years, there is a complex, very smart designer finding solutions to solve problems, to adapt to different needs. These organisms that have evolved over time are able to solve different types of challenges with certain strategies that preserve energy and are very efficient."Resources MentionedHexagro - https://www.hexagro.io/Felipe's Email - [email protected]'s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/hexagro.io/Felipe's Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hexagro.ioFelipe's Linkedin - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/hexagro-io" rel="noopener noreferrer"...