Vertical Farming Podcast
Harry Duran
The #1 show dedicated to Vertical Farming
- 53 minutes 15 seconds179: How Eleusis Helps Feed Security and Builds Rancher Resilience During Droughts with Joaquin Gonzalez
Ever feel like droughts, rising costs, or feed shortages are always threatening your ranchโs future? I get itโand so does this weekโs guest, whoโs engineering innovative solutions for resilient, sustainable animal agriculture.
In this episode, Harry Duran sits down with Joaquin Gonzalez, Chief Expansion Officer at Eleusis Feed, an expert in agricultural engineering with deep roots (literally) in ranching and hydroponic fodder systems. Raised on a ranch near Santiago and backed by a career spanning Chile, Colorado, and now Texas, Joaquin Gonzalez brings a wealth of hands-on experience and entrepreneurial spirit to revolutionize how livestock are fed.
This conversation dives into the power of hydroponic fodder systems as a game-changer for ranchers and farmers battling water scarcity, price hikes, and traditional feed limitations. Joaquin Gonzalez unpacks why modular container farms arenโt always the answer at scale, and shares how Eleusis Feedโs industrial solutions offer flexibility for both small and massive operations, empowering producers in drought-prone regions to ensure feedโand foodโsecurity all year long.
Beyond the nuts and bolts of fodder systems, youโll hear stories from Joaquin Gonzalez's lifelong obsession with horses, lessons learned from engineering trial and error, and the realities of transitioning from South America to the U.S. Discover what it really takes to convince traditional ranchers to embrace innovation, and get inspired by the impact of sustainable practices on animal health, water conservation, and rural livelihoods.
If youโre ready to learn how vertical farming can safeguard your operation and secure the future of animal agriculture, tune in to this episode nowโthis oneโs packed with practical insights and the passion to match. Listen and get equipped to grow smarter today!
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
00:06:42 Tackling Chileโs Drought and the Quest for Sustainable Fodder
00:13:01 Engineering Solutions: Container Farms and Overcoming Mold
00:19:22 Barley Fodder for All: From Horses to Giraffes
00:25:29 Scaling Up: Industrial Hydroponic Fodder Systems
00:32:09 Educating Ranchers and Challenging Traditions
00:38:18 Entrepreneurship, Moving to Austin, and Staying Motivated
Tweetable Quotes
"At the end, you have to have horses, you have to have a trainer and all this stuff, and it was something that from there I transitioned to another sport because it was too expensive. Being one of seven, it wasn't something that I was the only one obsessed with horses and stuff, so I pushed that dream aside and focused on other sports. But then after college, I picked it up again, started riding again, won another championship, and it was everything about having a horse and having a train with feed and all this stuff that gets complicated over time. That is something I have in my heartโat some point, I will do it for sure.""The containerized solution that we could put together was able to produce 850 pounds a day, which, if you look at the industry, you can feed 30 cows, 35 horses, and stuff like that. I was talking to many ranchers that had 200 head of cattle, so for that you need eight containers. Putting one container next to another at some point doesn't make senseโmaybe two is okay, three you start to think about, no, because every container has its own system, its own way of farming. At the end, we were looking for something more industrial.""With a fodder system, you use about 95% less water than traditional farm. Weโre here to help those places, especially in the western states, where drought makes water a critical issue. There are even incentives from the government like retiring wellsโtheyโll pay you to retire a well because water is so scarce. Those are the people who benefit the most from this technology."Resources Mentioned
Website - https://eleusisfeed.com/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxbGX9JbBJ89H51sVEN1Bog
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joaquingonzalezv/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576560510377
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/eleusis_feed/
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The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
5 December 2025, 9:00 am - 1 hour 15 seconds178: Why Modular Vertical Farming Holds the Key to Scalable Food Security with Fischer Farm's Tristan Fischer
Ever wondered how to scale your vertical farm without breaking the bankโor your nerves?
In this episode of the Vertical Farming Podcast, I sit down with Tristan Fischer, CEO of Fisher Farms, one of the pioneers in modular farming technology. Tristan brings over 25 years of experience in clean energy and large-scale renewables, translating that expertise into creating more efficient, scalable, and cost-effective vertical farming solutions. Having navigated the challenges of building some of the largest vertical farms in the UK, Tristan is passionate about making vertical farming both accessible and sustainableโand heโs got the battle-tested insights to prove it.
We dive deep into Fisher Farmsโ journey from traditional R&D setups to their cutting-edge modular approach, using shipping containers like building blocks for truly scalable farms. Tristan shares candid stories about the risks and surprises of massive farm construction, and how clever modular design is transforming the economics and flexibility of indoor agriculture, enabling global expansionโeven in places like Abu Dhabi, where energy costs are astonishingly low.
Beyond technology, we explore Fisher Farmsโ culture of innovation, their relentless focus on driving down costs, and why Tristan believes vertical farming should move from premium niche to practical staple for feeding the world. Youโll hear how the teamโs valuesโkindness, respect, factfulness, and robustnessโhelp foster big ideas and quick pivots, and how these principles drive Fisher Farms to be the lowest-cost vertical farm in the world.
If youโre ready to rethink whatโs possible with vertical farming and discover how modularity might be the answer to your growth headaches, donโt miss this episode! Click play and join us as we explore the future of feeding the worldโwithout wrecking the planet.
Ready to stop dreaming and start building a profitable, impactful vertical farm that transcends tired food system models? Click to listen and get inspired by Maryโs story, strategy, and actionable insights!
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
00:00 Fisher Farms Expansion and Modular Approach
06:01 Overcoming Scaling Challenges at Farm Two
12:01 Fisher Farms Ethos and Focus on Cost Reduction
18:31 Advancements in Lighting and Efficiency
23:40 Competing with Glasshouses and New Market Opportunities
29:54 Modular Growth in the UAE and Global Impact
35:03 Plug and Play Modular Flexibility
40:02 Fisher Farms Technology Certification and Branding
46:08 Building an Innovative, Kind, and Robust Company Culture
52:42 Closing Reflections and Future Outlook
Tweetable Quotes
"If you have a thousand things which need to get right, I think we probably planned for about 900 of them and got them right, and then once Farm 2 got running, 50 of them were relatively quick to fix, but there were a few items which actually ended up being very, very difficult. Sometimes you had a problem hiding behind another problem.""Our view is that if we focus on really driving down cost, cost, cost, cost, then we donโt have to worry about becoming a premium brandโbut it gets us in the direction where we want to be, which is: how do you actually feed the world without trashing the planet at the same time?""What we want is my terrible idea and a genuinely bad idea, and your crazy, insane idea and somebody elseโs drug-addled idea or sleep-addled ideaโwhatever it isโand theyโre all actually genuinely bad ideas independently, but by putting those ideas together, layering those ideas on top, we come up with a beautiful, brilliant insight which none of us independently had thought about."Resources Mentioned
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristanfischer/?originalSubdomain=uk
Website - https://fischerfarms.co.uk/
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VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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21 November 2025, 9:00 am - 54 minutes 59 seconds177: How Mary Wetherill Discovered the Business Model Shift That Makes Urban Farming Profitable
Iโve lost count of how many times Iโve watched passionate urban farmers burn out because their business model wasnโt sustainableโwhat if there were a better way?
This week on Vertical Farming, I sit down with Mary Wetherill, founding president and CEO of Green Food Solutions, for a candid conversation about building a truly sustainable urban farming business. Maryโs unique journeyโfrom the service industry and massage therapy to pioneering food access solutions in city environmentsโgives her an unmatched perspective on both the struggles and opportunities vertical farmers face today.
In this episode, Mary demystifies how Green Food Solutions is reimagining the food system with a โfarming as a serviceโ franchise model that prioritizes support, profitability, and genuine community impact. We dig into what makes a good franchise partner, why most farms face recurring challenges, and how Maryโs mission-driven approach is shaking up the industryโs status quo. If youโve ever wondered how to make real money in urban farmingโwithout sacrificing your valuesโthis conversation is your playbook.
Beyond the business model, youโll hear stories about navigating Silicon Valley hype cycles, lessons learned from early accelerator programs, the importance of resourcefulness, and the surprising ways personal experience shapes entrepreneurial journeys. Plus, discover how Green Food Solutions fosters partnerships that work, advice for new farmers, and eye-opening discussions on market realities and PR.
Ready to stop dreaming and start building a profitable, impactful vertical farm that transcends tired food system models? Click to listen and get inspired by Maryโs story, strategy, and actionable insights!
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
00:00 Jersey City Roots and Entrepreneurial Beginnings
06:10 Entering Urban Farming & The Square Roots Experience
12:35 Green Food Solutions Business Model Explained
18:26 Franchising, Farmers, and Fit for New Owners
24:57 Green Food Solutions Origin Story & Mission
30:22 Monetization, Resourcefulness, and Revenue Streams
36:48 Team Management & Leadership Values
41:02 Industry Reflections & Farmersโ Challenges
46:16 Closing Thoughts & Contact Information
Tweetable Quotes
"Honestly, when I worked for Merrill Lynch, I quit. I was in with my boss and I was getting a promotion. She brought me in her office and I was just going to give my two weeks. I'd rather stick a pencil in my eyes than take your promotion. I just really didn't like the corporate environment.""We were disgusted by how consultants and all these people were charging tens, twenties of thousands of dollars for things we were giving for free, and honestly, manufacturers usually give those for freeโso I didnโt like what I saw happening when I was so originally excited about it.""There was a day that my mom had a box of food that was brought into the house by a priest. I think that was the first day I had an experience of feeling poor, regardless of what level it was. I started selling my toys and shining shoesโI think I got my knowledge about monetization and being resourceful because of having grown up poor."Resources Mentioned
Website - https://www.greenfoodsolutions.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/18566881
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/greenfoodsolutions/
Instagram โ https://www.instagram.com/greenfoodsolutions/
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/GreenFoodSolutions
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VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
31 October 2025, 9:00 am - 45 minutes 22 seconds176: From Panic to Prevention: Pathogen Management Strategies for Indoor Growers
Are you worried about potential pathogens lurking in your indoor farm's water system or substrate? I've got you covered with insights from an expert in agricultural analytics.
I sat down with Taylor Robinson, Chief Scientist and founder of Rimrock Analytical, to discuss the critical role of proactive monitoring in controlled environment agriculture. Taylor's unique background in molecular sciences and agriculture has positioned him as a leader in providing cutting-edge analytical services to indoor farms.
Taylor shed light on the common challenges indoor farmers face, from biofouling in water systems to unexpected pathogen outbreaks. He stressed the importance of having a solid biosecurity plan and regular monitoring to catch issues early. We delved into real-world case studies, including a Pythium outbreak that nearly devastated a farm's operations, and how data-driven solutions helped turn the situation around.
We also explored the evolving landscape of indoor farming, discussing the industry's consolidation and the lessons learned from early adopters. Taylor shared valuable insights on how farms of all sizes can benefit from analytical services, emphasizing the return on investment in preventing crop losses. If you're involved in indoor farming or curious about the science behind growing food in controlled environments, this episode is packed with practical knowledge you won't want to miss.
Ready to unlock the secrets of maintaining a healthy indoor farm environment? Listen now to gain valuable insights that could save your crops and optimize your growing operations.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
5:03 Water treatment challenges in indoor farming
10:31 Proactive monitoring vs. reactive troubleshooting
16:23 Education and support for growers
22:25 Risks of pathogen spread in grow systems
26:50 State of the indoor farming industry
31:32 Rimrock team size and recent hires
34:36 Importance of preventative maintenance for farms
Tweetable Quotes
"We take the mantra of 'data to decisions' at Rimrock. We see ourselves as a vehicle to streamline what can be barriers for growers and operators to get the necessary data.""Microbes have the capacity to multiply and spread very rapidly. So keeping a close eye on things, establishing routine monitoring surveys we've found is key.""We're rolling out a microbial heat map to help you better visualize your microbial results mapped to your process flow in your facility. With that you can see potential hotspots for pathogens and how they might integrate to downstream systems."Resources Mentioned
Website - https://rimrockanalytical.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/65487487/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rimrock_analytical/
Connect With Us
VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
10 October 2025, 9:00 am - 50 minutes 41 seconds175: Advanced Aeroponics & Why Vertical Farmingโs Future Lies in Glasshouses
Are you curious about the latest innovations in sustainable agriculture? I recently caught up with Charlie Guy, CEO of Let Us Grow, to discuss the fascinating world of advanced aeroponics and its potential to revolutionize greenhouse farming.
Charlie shared insights on Let Us Grow's journey from vertical farming to focusing on aeroponics technology for greenhouses. He explained how their advanced aeroponics system offers significant advantages over traditional hydroponic methods, including increased yields, improved plant health, and reduced water usage. Charlie also touched on the company's expansion into global markets and their efforts to educate both industry professionals and the public about the benefits of controlled environment agriculture.
We delved into the challenges faced by the vertical farming industry and how Let Us Grow has adapted to changing market conditions. Charlie emphasized the importance of collaboration within the industry and highlighted their partnerships with established greenhouse builders and system integrators. He also discussed their community outreach efforts, such as the Bristol Basil Company initiative, which demonstrates the potential of local food production using advanced growing techniques.
Throughout our conversation, Charlie provided valuable insights into the future of controlled environment agriculture and the role of aeroponics in creating more sustainable and resilient food systems. If you're interested in the intersection of technology and agriculture, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the cutting-edge world of advanced growing methods.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
5:07 Shifting focus to glasshouses and partnerships
11:40 Biking to GreenTech conference and industry events
16:44 Building relationships with government agencies
20:21 Bristol Basil Company and local food initiatives
28:12 BBC Radio 4 feature on sustainable growing
34:57 Challenges of running a company in this environment
39:06 Future plans and global expansion goals
44:01 Closing thoughts on collaboration in indoor farming
Tweetable Quotes
"We've taken the rolling bench architecture widely used in the greenhouse industry and integrated our advanced aeroponics technology into it. This means we can partner with numerous Dutch large greenhouse builders to deliver these systems, providing the smarts while they handle the delivery.""There's no point in doing vertical farming unless it's powered by renewable energy. It doesn't make sense from an environmental standpoint to burn fossil fuels to convert them into electrons to power lights to grow plants when the sun is free.""We're showing you can turn disused greenhouses into productive grows that are profitable and give back to your local food community. You can achieve many of the same outcomes as vertical farming with a slightly lower tech structure like a greenhouse, while still growing the best produce year-round with the least water."Resources Mentioned
Website - www.lettusgrow.com
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/lettus-grow
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LettUsGrow/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lettusgrow/
X - https://twitter.com/LettUsGrow
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VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
12 September 2025, 9:00 am - 45 minutes 31 seconds174: The Hidden Power of Steam in Indoor Farming with Soil Steam's Hans Kristian Westrum
Are you struggling to maintain soil health and reduce costs in your indoor farming operation? Soil steaming technology might be the solution you've been searching for.
In this episode, I speak with Hans Kristian Westrum, Chief Strategy Manager at Soil Steam, about their innovative soil steaming technology. Hans grew up on a farm in Norway and later pursued a career in business before returning to agriculture. His company, Soil Steam, has developed machines that use steam to sanitize soil and substrates, eliminating harmful pathogens and weeds without chemicals.
We discuss how Soil Steam's technology evolved from open field applications to containerized solutions for indoor farming. Hans shares insights on how their machines can effectively treat substrates, allowing farmers to recycle growing media and reduce costs. Recent trials with strawberry growers in Belgium demonstrated that steamed, recycled substrates performed as well as new substrates, opening up exciting possibilities for sustainable farming practices.
The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing different market demands, from construction projects to indoor farms. Hans emphasizes the importance of focusing on containerized solutions to meet the growing needs of indoor farmers worldwide. We explore future plans for expansion into North America and the company's commitment to participating in industry conferences to share their research and technology.
If you're curious about innovative solutions for sustainable indoor farming and want to learn how soil steaming technology could revolutionize your growing practices, don't miss this fascinating conversation with Hans Kristian Westrum.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
0:00 Intro: Steaming soil for construction and farming
5:13 Early experiences with steam on the farm
16:53 Expanding into indoor farming and substrates
21:15 Research on steaming to eliminate pathogens
27:52 Positive results from substrate recycling tests
34:00 Focusing on container-based steaming machines
39:02 Closing thoughts and future plans
Tweetable Quotes
"We steam the substrate before they took it in the first time to have control. Be 100% sure that this is clean. These guys cannot take a risk on anything. If you have one disease in that coco coir or whatever you get, if something can happen, it means it comes from Sri Lanka and it can go by boat, what happens all this distance.""We got rid of the harmful organisms that were there and the natural life was back two weeks after. It comes from surroundings, from the soil beneath and stuff like that.""I think it's a fantastic combination. You can talk about sustainability, but if there's no saving money, it's impossible. We say that we can recycle one cube of the substrate at the cost of maybe five to ten dollars. Approximately something between 50 and 60, 70, $80 per cube."Resources Mentioned
Website - http://www.soilsteam.com
LinkedIn โ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hans-kristian-westrum-12023444/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/soilsteam
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
29 August 2025, 9:00 am - 56 minutes 26 seconds173: Unlocking Million Dollar Grants for Indoor Farmers with Andy Seckinger
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the complexities of applying for agricultural grants? I sat down with Andy Seckinger, Sales Director at United Grants of America, to demystify the process and explore effective sales strategies for farmers and entrepreneurs.
Andy's journey from a skeptical view of sales to becoming a passionate advocate for helping others is truly inspiring. He shares how his experiences in Iowa and personal challenges shaped his approach to sales and client relationships. Andy emphasizes the importance of understanding clients' needs, asking the right questions, and maintaining integrity throughout the sales process.
We delve into the world of agricultural grants, discussing how United Grants of America assists farmers in navigating complex government programs. Andy explains their team-based approach, which includes compliance experts, analysts, and account executives with farming backgrounds. He highlights the value of personalized service and the company's success-based fee structure.
Andy also touches on recent trends in agricultural grants, including changes in government programs and the increasing availability of funding opportunities. His insights provide valuable guidance for farmers looking to secure financial support for their operations.
If you're a farmer or entrepreneur seeking to improve your sales skills or explore grant opportunities, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories. Tune in to gain a fresh perspective on sales, personal growth, and the world of agricultural grants.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
5:02 History and mission of United Grants of America
9:16 Andy's journey into sales and professional development
14:26 Lessons from stand-up comedy applied to sales
19:40 The importance of self-improvement in sales
30:59 Overcoming personal struggles and professional growth
37:45 How United Grants of America assists farmers
42:55 Keys to success in securing agricultural grants
46:58 Exploring spirituality and vulnerability in business
Tweetable Quotes
"At the end of the day, there's three reasons why people buy. Are you going to make me money? Are you going to save me money? You're going to make my life easy.""Life is here to help us. It's up to us not to say bad or good. Life is here to really help us.""I don't think farmers' lives always fit perfectly into what's being offered. So you got to do a little brain surgery and understand what the end is mine and ask really good questions."Resources Mentioned
APPLY HERE: https://www.verticalfarmingpodcast.com/grants
Website - https://www.unitedgrantsofamerica.com/
LinkedIn โ https://www.linkedin.com/company/united-grants-of-america
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VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
15 August 2025, 9:00 am - 51 minutes 57 seconds172: Gyroplant's Game-Changing Superstructures for CEA with Marcus Comaschi
Struggling with the complexities of indoor farming and looking for innovative solutions to streamline your operations? Join me as I explore groundbreaking ideas with Marcus Comaschi, R&D engineer at Gyroplant, who is revolutionizing the way we think about plant substrates in controlled environment agriculture.
Marcus Comaschi, an R&D engineer at Gyroplant, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in design and engineering to the world of indoor farming. With a background that spans from working at Ford Motor to developing hydroponic systems, Marcus has a unique perspective on how to innovate within the agricultural sector. His journey from traditional engineering to creating reusable plant-holding superstructures is a testament to his passion for sustainable and efficient farming solutions.
The main focus of our conversation is Gyroplant's innovative approach to eliminating traditional substrates in indoor farming. Marcus shares how his company developed reusable silicone rubber superstructures that hold plants without the need for messy, single-use materials. This advancement not only simplifies the growing process but also addresses issues of cleanliness, cost, and supply chain reliability, making it a game-changer for growers worldwide.
Beyond the main topic, we delve into the challenges of standardization in the vertical farming industry and the importance of collaboration among growers and technology providers. Marcus also discusses the role of 3D printing in prototyping and developing custom solutions, highlighting how this technology has been pivotal in Gyroplant's success.
Curious to learn how Gyroplant's solutions can transform your indoor farming operations? Click to listen and discover how Marcus Comaschi's insights could help you achieve cleaner, more efficient plant production.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
0:00 Intro: Marcus Comaschi joins Vertical Farming podcast
5:20 Marcus's journey from engineering to food
10:41 3D printing's crucial role in prototyping
18:29 Eliminating substrate: Drivers and challenges
24:38 Need for standardization in vertical farming
31:21 Design process for crop-specific superstructures
37:42 Balancing focus and opportunities in business
42:39 Closing thoughts on indoor farming's future
Tweetable Quotes
"We don't like to problem solve, but problem eliminate. Traditionally an engineer solves a problem and creates 20 other problems.""There's this great mesh of the engineered and the organic together in one and that's never going to go to plan initially.""I think the indoor farming world is finding its feet and we really would like to say to people to look at some of our case studies online to see how we slightly disrupted the traditional models."Resources Mentioned
Website - https://www.gyroplant.com/
LinkedIn โ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-comaschi-05b9327b/?originalSubdomain=uk
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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/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
8 August 2025, 9:00 am - 49 minutes 7 seconds171: Vertical Farmingโs Missing Link: Integrating Greenhouse Wisdom with Wessel van Paassen of Green Simplicity
Ever wondered why some vertical farms thrive while others struggle? The answer might lie in combining traditional horticultural wisdom with cutting-edge technology.
I sat down with Wessel van Paassen, Managing Director at Green Simplicity, to explore the intersection of greenhouse expertise and vertical farming innovation. Born into a family of flower growers, Wessel brings a unique perspective to the vertical farming industry. His company, Green Simplicity, has been at the forefront of developing research chambers and vertical farming solutions for the past decade.
Wessel shares how his background in traditional horticulture has shaped his approach to vertical farming. He emphasizes the importance of efficiency, optimization, and practical knowledge in developing successful systems. We discuss the challenges faced by the vertical farming industry and how lessons from greenhouse cultivation can be applied to indoor farming.
Our conversation covers a range of topics, including the evolution of vertical farming technology, the importance of collaboration within the industry, and the potential for hybrid approaches that combine greenhouse and indoor farming techniques. Wessel also offers insights into the future of vertical farming and the role of companies like Green Simplicity in driving innovation.
If you're interested in the future of agriculture and want to understand how traditional farming wisdom can inform cutting-edge vertical farming solutions, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain valuable insights from one of the industry's most experienced voices.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
5:27 Evolution from research chambers to vertical farms
10:30 Pioneering LED lighting in tulip cultivation
16:58 Challenges of vertical farming system integration
24:40 Attending conferences and industry trends
29:45 Green Simplicity joining the GreenV group
35:08 Preparing for growth and future innovations
Tweetable Quotes
"I always say under pressure everything gets fluid. So you have to make sure it works at the ends of the line.""We are not a company that can say, 'Oh, we prove that you can produce 120 kilos of lettuce.' I just say I've never done lettuce. But if you now produce 80 kilos and your climate is this, I know it will be better because our climate is just spot on and we have uniform light distribution.""Seeing is believing. I always say talk to my customer and don't involve me. Then you know the real story."Resources Mentioned
Website - https://greensimplicity.com/en/
LinkedIn โ https://www.linkedin.com/in/greensimplicity/
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1 August 2025, 9:00 am - 48 minutes 11 seconds170: Cartoons, Crops, and Community: Reimagining Sustainable Farming with Smart Farmsโ Mike Smart
Have you ever wondered how to combine sustainable farming, education, and entertainment into a single innovative concept? I sat down with Mike Smart, founder of Smart Farms, to discuss his unique approach to revolutionizing the food industry and educating the next generation.
Mike's journey is a fascinating blend of technology, entrepreneurship, and agriculture. From his early days in crypto and digital payments to his current focus on sustainable farming, Mike has always been driven by a desire to empower individuals and decentralize systems. His latest venture, Smart Farms and the Bucket Buddies brand, is a testament to this vision.
At the heart of Mike's concept is the Bucket Buddies book series, which features anthropomorphic characters teaching children about farming, nutrition, and sustainability. But it doesn't stop there โ the brand extends to physical products, grow kits, and plans for animated content, all designed to engage children and families in the world of agriculture.
We delved into Mike's ambitious plans for scaling his concept, including the development of hyperlocal farms across the country and the creation of educational experiences that blend entertainment with hands-on learning. Mike also shared his thoughts on the challenges of bringing such a multifaceted project to life and his strategies for attracting investors and partners.
If you're interested in innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, education, or building a brand with a purpose, you won't want to miss this inspiring conversation with Mike Smart. Tune in to hear how one entrepreneur is working to transform our relationship with food from the ground up.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
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Key Takeaways
5:35 Crypto journey and payment industry experiences
8:14 Origins of indoor farming interest
13:44 Creating the Bucket Buddies book series
19:33 Walt Disney-like vision for Smart Farms
23:52 Current progress and future plans
29:14 Scaling the brand and outsourcing production
34:53 Immediate needs and ideal partners
Tweetable Quotes
"How about we funnel all of that consumerism into sustainable farming methods and then scale those sustainable farming methods as a nonprofit as opposed to forcing people to pay taxes to jump on board with whatever systems they can remain centralized and shut us off from our electricity or shut us off from our food supply anytime they want.""Adults are indoctrinated and it's harder and in fact impossible to change the mind of an adult who doesn't want to change their mind. And so it just only makes sense to start with educating the youth, making this stuff entertaining, fun, stickable, addicting.""I'm Daddy in my world and I'm fixing everything I can fix with these processes. And if I can create a subscription service to these micro local hyperlocal farms and instill the curriculum into all the libraries and the schools and homeschool communities so that the kids are learning Smart Farms is where we get our food... Then we're going to be a household name."Resources Mentioned
Website - Https://smartfarms.global
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-smart-bucket-buddies
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/share/16n455CPLE/
X - https://x.com/smartfarms2024
YouTube - https://youtube.com/@smartfarms2024
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
25 July 2025, 9:00 am - 55 minutes 22 seconds169: The Evolution of Dubaiโs Vertical Farming Show
Have you ever wondered how the vertical farming industry is evolving and what it takes to organize successful events in this space? I had the pleasure of speaking with Tahir Abdul Bari, founder and CEO of TAB Group, about his journey from traditional agriculture to organizing one of the largest vertical farming events in the Middle East.
Tahir's story is fascinating, starting from his childhood experiences in Kashmir's apple orchards to becoming a key player in the events industry. He shared how his grandfather's teachings on respecting and valuing people have shaped his leadership style and approach to team building. The conversation delved into the challenges of pivoting during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it led to the creation of the Global Vertical Farming Show.
We discussed the importance of adaptability in the events industry, especially when dealing with emerging technologies like vertical farming. Tahir provided insights into how the show has evolved over the years, growing from a virtual event to a large-scale physical exhibition. He emphasized the critical role of collaboration in the indoor farming industry, particularly at this early stage of development.
If you're interested in the intersection of agriculture, technology, and event management, or if you want to learn about the latest trends in vertical farming, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear Tahir's valuable perspectives on team building, industry challenges, and the future of indoor agriculture.
Thanks to Our Sponsors
CEA Summit East - https://indoor.ag/cea-summit-east-2025/
Indoor AgCon - https://indoor.ag/
Key Takeaways
3:42 Impact of COVID-19 on events industry
9:15 Building long-term relationships in events
16:28 Decision-making process for event viability
21:34 Evolution of Global Vertical Farming Show
32:15 Unique aspects of upcoming Vertical Farming Show
36:38 Importance of team building and culture
42:37 Tough questions leaders ask themselves
Tweetable Quotes
"I am very close to the soil. I grew up in a family with farms and orchards. That's what we did on the ground level. So I had a natural inclination towards agriculture.""For Middle East, especially UAE, vertical farming is not just an option for people to consider. It's something which is by default the best that they can do.""A client is a client until we are closing a deal. Once the deal is closed and you come to the event, treat them as your guests. It's our responsibility to make their life comfortable."Resources Mentioned
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahirabdulbari/
Connect With Us
VFP LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/verticalfarmingpodcast
VFP Twitter - https://twitter.com/VerticalFarmPod
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Subscribe to our newsletters!
AgTech Digest - https://agtechdigest.com
The Indoor Farmer - https://www.indoorverticalfarm.com/
Horti-Gen Insights - https://www.hortigeninsights.com/
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Podcast Production and Marketing by FullCast
11 July 2025, 9:00 am - More Episodes? Get the App