00:00 Introduction and Background

09:21 Challenges in Proving the Effectiveness of AgTech Solutions

30:53 The Upgrade Dilemma

46:38 The Importance of Long-Term, Sustainable Approaches

01:01:34 Navigating the Financial Aspects of Farming

01:09:39 The Potential Risks and Benefits of Biologicals in Agriculture

01:19:09 The Importance of Self-Governance and Responsible Innovation in Agriculture

In this episode of Ag Uncensored, I interview Michael Ott, CEO of Cquesta and former CEO and founder of Rantizo. We discuss the use of drones in agriculture, specifically in the area of spraying crops. Michael shares his experience in the ag tech industry and how he got into drones and spraying. We also discuss the challenges and opportunities in the drone spraying market. Later in the conversation, we delve into Cquesta, a company that uses gene editing technology to modify root architecture in crops, allowing them to tolerate stress and store carbon underground. We discuss the potential of this technology in carbon sequestration and its integration into the existing agricultural system. In this conversation, Michael Ott and I discuss various topics related to agriculture technology and innovation. We touch on the importance of having principles in decision-making, the need for smart and targeted solutions in ag tech, and the challenges and opportunities in the industry. We also discuss the role of data in agriculture, the value of partnerships and collaborations, and the future of ag tech. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for innovative solutions that address specific challenges in agriculture and the potential for technology to drive positive change.

Takeaways

• Drones are becoming more common in agriculture, particularly in the area of spraying crops.
• The reliability of drones and the ability to spray in specific areas have contributed to their increased adoption.
• Cquesta uses gene editing technology to modify root architecture in crops, allowing them to tolerate stress and store carbon underground.
• Cquesta aims to integrate their technology into the existing agricultural system, working with seed companies and farmers to provide a no-cost solution for carbon sequestration.
• The measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) system can be used to quantify the carbon sequestration benefits of various technologies, including gene editing and microbial applications. Having principles in decision-making is important, especially in the ever-changing landscape of agriculture.
• Smart and targeted solutions are needed in ag tech to address specific challenges and optimize outcomes.
• Data plays a crucial role in agriculture, and leveraging it effectively can lead to better decision-making and improved outcomes.
• Partnerships and collaborations are valuable in the ag tech industry, as they can bring together different expertise and resources to drive innovation.
• The future of ag tech holds great potential for solving complex problems and creating positive change in the industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

07:45 The Potential of Drone Application

24:04 The Future of Sequestra and Carbon Sequestration

31:37 Introduction and Laughter

39:22 The Value of Partnerships and Collaborations

58:44 End

In an engaging conversation with Vibhore Arora, who has an illustrious career stretching from India to Amazon Canada, we delve into his unique shift to Farmers Edge which he views as both a challenge and a meaningful opportunity. Listen in as they discuss their close past association, successes, setbacks, and a sneak peek into a thriving company's plans under new leadership.

Go behind the scenes to learn about the strategic changes within Farmer's Edge, the leading Ag-tech trailblazer. The company aims to pioneer the technology landscape for growers, retailers, co-ops, and large enterprise partners. Gain insights into the lessons learned from their past, and their commitment to enhancing the company's focus on centralizing their operations, being customer-centric, and strategic decision-making.

Tune in for candid revelations, stimulating discussions, and enlightening reflections about the world of agri-tech, Farmer's Edge, and the future of agriculture technology. Join us in shining a spotlight on this incredible journey. Subscribe, share, comment and stay tuned for more raw, personal, and exclusive content from the dynamic world of Ag-Tech.

In this conversation, Nathan Faleide interviews Kip Pendleton about the adoption and challenges of biologicals in agriculture. Kip shares his journey in the industry, from working in the seed industry to focusing on information and data collection through precision equipment. He believes that biologicals will be the next wave in agriculture, providing sustainable solutions for feeding the world. However, there are challenges in verifying the effectiveness of biologicals and managing expectations. Kip emphasizes the importance of harnessing and utilizing agricultural data to make better decisions and drive technological adoption. He also discusses the global competition in technological adoption, with countries like Brazil leading the way. This conversation explores various themes in US agriculture, including the impact of Brazil on the market, the utilization of technology, the fear of data privacy, the importance of collaboration, the need for change and adaptation, the potential of data, the value of sharing and learning from failures, the importance of interconnected systems, the changing business models, the potential impact of technology companies, the role of robotics, the need for collective action and data stewardship, the need for change in politics, the potential for positive change, the lessons from COVID-19, and key principles for success.

Takeaways

• Biologicals are the next wave in agriculture and offer sustainable solutions for feeding the world.
• Verifying the effectiveness of biologicals and managing expectations are key challenges in their adoption.
• Harnessing and utilizing agricultural data is crucial for making better decisions and driving technological adoption.
• Global competition in technological adoption, with countries like Brazil leading the way, is increasing. Brazil has had a significant impact on the US agriculture market, changing dynamics and affecting prices.
• The utilization of technology is crucial for US agriculture to stay competitive and maintain its position as a global leader.
• There is a fear of data privacy in US agriculture, but the potential benefits of sharing and utilizing data outweigh the risks.
• Collaboration and working together are essential for the success of the agriculture industry.
• Adaptation and change are necessary in agriculture to keep up with evolving systems and consumer needs.
• Data has the potential to revolutionize agriculture and drive advancements in various areas, including seed success, robotics, and value creation.
• Sharing and learning from failures is important for progress and improvement in agriculture.
• Interconnected systems and collaboration between different stakeholders in agriculture can lead to greater success.
• The business models in agriculture are changing, and companies need to adapt to stay relevant.
• Technology companies, such as Amazon and Google, are entering the agriculture market and understanding the food chain better than traditional players.
• Robotics can play a significant role in agriculture, particularly in areas with vast acres and a shortage of labor.
• Collective action and data stewardship are crucial for the future of agriculture.
• There is a need for change in politics to support and advance the agriculture industry.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that rapid change and collaboration are possible and necessary in agriculture.
• Key principles for success in agriculture include working with others, utilizing data effectively, and knowing the value and purpose of one's work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:15 Kip Pendleton's Journey in Agriculture

06:20 The Rise of Biologicals in Agriculture

07:46 Challenges and Verification of Biologicals

10:13 Managing Expectations for Biologicals

13:37 Adoption Issues and the Role of Startups

16:01 The Role of Ag Retailers in Adoption

21:13 Technology and Scaling in Agriculture

24:03 Knowledge Transfer and Progression in Agriculture

25:41 Harnessing and Utilizing Agricultural Data

27:10 The Trigger for Technological Adoption

28:10 Global Competition in Technological Adoption

28:37 Impact of Brazil on the US agriculture market

29:35 Utilizing technology in US agriculture

31:02 The fear of data privacy in US agriculture

32:31 The importance of collaboration in agriculture

34:04 The unique cooperative system in North Dakota

34:32 The historical context of agricultural systems

36:26 The need for change and adaptation in agriculture

37:24 The potential of data in agriculture

38:21 The importance of sharing and learning from failures

39:18 The value of comparing and sharing data in agriculture

40:15 The need for interconnected systems in agriculture

41:12 The changing business models in agriculture

43:09 The potential impact of technology companies in agriculture

44:34 The importance of collaboration and working together in agriculture

46:21 The role of robotics in agriculture

48:46 The need for collective action and data stewardship in agriculture

51:34 The need for change in politics and agriculture

52:03 The potential for positive change in agriculture

53:18 The lessons from COVID-19 for agriculture

55:17 Key principles for success in agriculture

In this conversation, I interview Paul Schrimpf, an expert in ag tech and precision agriculture. We discuss Paul's background in journalism and his journey into the world of agriculture. We also explore the evolution of ag technology, including the impact of auto-steer systems and the rise of software in agriculture. We speculate on the next big innovation in the industry and the challenges of automation and consolidation. The conversation explores the challenges and complexities of adopting agricultural technologies in the farming industry. We discuss the disconnect between technology developers and farmers, the lack of government support for outstanding performers, and the cultural and lifestyle aspects of farming. The conversation also touches on the marketing strategies of ag tech companies and the need for a more realistic and practical approach to technology adoption in agriculture. In this final part of the conversation, we both discuss the challenges and complexities of the agriculture industry, including the difficulties of expanding farms, the importance of survival in both good and bad years, and the upcoming transfer of knowledge and land from one generation to the next. We also touch on the need for standardization and collaboration in ag tech, as well as the slow and deliberate progress being made in the industry. Overall, we emphasize the importance of learning from the past and using that knowledge to shape the future of agriculture.

Takeaways

• Paul Schrimpf has had a successful career in ag tech and precision agriculture, covering various aspects of the industry.
• The introduction of auto-steer systems was a game-changer in terms of efficiency and comfort for farmers.
• The usability of software in agriculture has improved over time, with companies like Climate FieldView and Precision Planting leading the way.
• The next big innovation in agriculture is still uncertain, but automation and AI are potential areas of growth.
• The challenge lies in finding the right balance between technology and the need for human involvement in farming operations.
• Consolidation in the industry has not occurred at the scale expected, and the future of agriculture remains dynamic and ever-changing. Agricultural technologies are often built for large-scale operations focused on production and movement, which may not align with the lifestyle and values of individual farmers.
• The government support for farming tends to favor all farmers rather than outstanding performers, which may discourage the adoption of new technologies.
• The cultural and lifestyle aspects of farming play a significant role in technology adoption, and many farmers may not feel the need to adopt new technologies if they are already making a profit.
• The marketing strategies of ag tech companies often focus on grand claims of feeding the world, but the actual impact and effectiveness of these technologies can vary.
• There is a need for a more realistic and practical approach to technology adoption in agriculture, with a focus on solutions that work for individual farmers and provide tangible benefits. The agriculture industry is complex and influenced by various factors, making it challenging for farmers to expand and adopt new technologies.
• Surviving both good and bad years is crucial in agriculture, and farmers often have to be stubborn and adaptable to navigate the ups and downs.
• The transfer of knowledge and land from one generation to the next is a significant event in the industry that will shape its future.
• Standardization and collaboration are essential in ag tech to ensure seamless data interchange and drive progress.
• Learning from the past and understanding the history of agriculture can provide valuable insights for shaping the future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

08:23 The Impact of Auto-Steer Systems

31:59 The Lack of Government Support for Outstanding Performers

55:26 The Need for a Realistic and Practical Approach to Technology Adoption

01:08:12 Importance of Learning from the Past

01:19:14 Surviving the Ups and Downs in Agriculture

01:30:49 Exit - Podcast ‑ Made with FlexClip (1).mp4

I'm reformatting my podcasts and newsletter...again... Hang with me, it's an evolution!

In this conversation, Nathan Faleide interviews Carter Williams, a leading voice in the conversation around technology and agriculture. Carter shares his background in aerospace engineering and his experience in developing innovative technologies. They discuss the intersection of health and food, the challenges of implementing technology in the agriculture industry, and the complexities of the farm bill. They also touch on the need for simplifying and digitizing processes in crop insurance reporting. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of technology and innovation in improving the efficiency and sustainability of the food system. The conversation explores the challenges and complexities of improving the food system and agriculture through technology. It discusses the need for better, more nutritious food that is also affordable and accessible. The conversation touches on the difficulties of changing the current system and the ingrained mindset around food production and consumption. It also delves into the complexities of soil health, regenerative agriculture, and the role of technology in improving farming practices. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for increased funding and research in agriculture and the potential for public-private partnerships to drive innovation. The conversation explores the impact of land transfer and the changing dynamics of the agricultural industry. It discusses the construction of soybean crushing plants and the potential shift towards ethanol as a fuel source. The conversation also delves into the consolidation of farms and the need for investment in smaller farms focused on nutrition. The role of venture capital in coordinating innovation and the importance of early adopter customers are also highlighted.

Takeaways

• The conversation explores the intersection of technology, agriculture, and healthcare, and the need for innovative solutions in these industries.
• The farm bill plays a significant role in shaping the relationship between production agriculture and food nutrition, but there is a desire to separate the two to allow for more efficient and targeted approaches.
• Implementing new technologies and processes in agriculture and healthcare can be challenging due to the complex nature of the systems and the political considerations involved.
• There is a need to focus on improving nutritional density in food and exploring the concept of food as medicine to address health issues related to poor nutrition.
• Efforts to modernize and streamline processes, such as crop insurance reporting, are hindered by factors like job security and funding considerations.
• The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing between different industries and sectors to drive innovation and progress. The food system needs to prioritize nutritious and healthier food options, especially for children in schools and daycare centers.
• Implementing regenerative agriculture practices and improving the food system is complex and requires collaboration between various stakeholders.
• Early adopters play a crucial role in driving change and influencing the adoption of new technologies in agriculture.
• There is a need for more research and funding in agriculture to address the challenges and complexities of implementing new practices.
• Public-private partnerships could be a potential solution to accelerate innovation and address the funding gap in agriculture. The transfer of land and the construction of soybean crushing plants will have a significant impact on agriculture.
• The future of ethanol and fossil fuels is uncertain, but lobbying and political pressure could drive changes.
• Consolidation of farms is expected, with larger farms becoming more efficient and smaller farms focusing on renting land and implementing regenerative practices.
• Investment in smaller farms focused on nutrition is needed to provide alternatives to large commodity crops.
• Venture capital plays a role in coordinating innovation, but early adopter customers are crucial for startups to succeed.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:15 The Intersection of Health and Food

10:38 Challenges of Implementing Technology in Agriculture

25:44 Simplifying and Digitizing Crop Insurance Reporting

32:01 The Role of Technology in Improving the Food System

38:02 Declassifying information and satellite technology

39:18 The challenges of providing nutritious food to children

41:29 The decline in the quality of school food

44:51 Transitioning to a new food system

48:28 The role of technology in agriculture

51:38 The complexities of implementing regenerative agriculture

54:52 The need for increased funding and research in agriculture

01:01:53 The challenges of scaling technology in agriculture

01:06:48 The need for public-private partnerships in agriculture

01:10:39 The complexities of the food system and the role of private industry

01:14:05 The need for increased funding and research in agriculture

01:15:48 The future of agriculture and the challenges of transitioning away from traditional fuel

01:16:35 The Impact of Land Transfer and Changing Dynamics in Agriculture

01:17:43 The Shift Towards Ethanol and the Role of Soybean Crushing Plants

01:19:56 Consolidation of Farms and the Need for Investment in Smaller Farms

01:28:56 Venture Capital, Early Adopter Customers, and Coordinating Innovation

01:44:39 Regionalizing Perspectives and Collaboration in the Agricultural Industry

One major theme was the challenge of connecting complex analytics with the everyday realities of farmers. It’s not just about crunching numbers; it’s about providing practical tools that help farmers make better decisions. We also touched on the hurdles of integrating new software into the operations of large agricultural companies—a process that often requires taking big risks.

Simplicity emerged as a key takeaway in AgTech—creating simple, effective tools might sound easy, but it’s a complex process that demands constant refinement. We discussed the ongoing consolidation in the agriculture industry, which has led to concerns about reduced competition and the challenges new startups face in breaking into the market.

We didn’t shy away from the tough stuff, like the aging population in agriculture and the critical need for government support in advancing technology. Collaboration was another hot topic, especially how data sharing and partnerships between farmers, researchers, and organizations are vital for success. The conversation also highlighted the role of extension services and education in helping farmers adopt new practices.

As we wrapped up, we looked at the broader picture—the importance of building sustainable, resilient rural communities and the lessons learned through the startup and acquisition journey in AgTech. This episode is packed with insights into the evolving world of agriculture and the essential role that technology and collaboration play in its future.

Key Takeaways and Timestamps:

• Introduction and Background (00:00): Paul Miller and Bill Northcott share their agricultural backgrounds and the founding story of Agrible.
• Monetizing AgTech (16:43): Discussing the challenges of monetizing Agrible's technology, including finding the right price point and business strategy.
• Relating Analytics to Farmers (28:49): The difficulty of translating complex analytics into practical tools that help farmers make better decisions.
• Integrating Software into Large Agricultural Companies (35:18): The risks and challenges associated with integrating new software into established agricultural companies.
• Simplicity in AgTech (37:29): The importance of simplicity in developing AgTech solutions, despite the complexity of the development process.
• Consolidation and Antitrust Concerns in Agriculture (38:38): The ongoing consolidation in the agriculture industry and its impact on competition.
• The Need for Government Support in Agriculture (41:49): Discussing the critical role of government funding and support in advancing agricultural technology.
• Building Sustainable and Resilient Rural Communities (01:06:30): Exploring the need for economic development and support for rural communities in agriculture.
• Practical Implementation Support and Extension Services (01:20:08): Highlighting the gap in practical support for farmers adopting sustainable practices and the role of extension services.
• Lessons Learned in the Startup and Acquisition Process (01:31:55): Reflecting on the challenges and lessons learned throughout the startup and acquisition journey in the AgTech industry.

In this podcast episode, Nathan Faleide interviews Steven Rao about his experience in the agriculture industry as the former CEO of Farm MarketiD and the use of data in agribusiness. They discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding farmer data, the importance of transparency and value in data sharing, and the integration of personal data with agricultural data. They also explore the role of consumer data and analytics in understanding farmer personas and making better business decisions. 

The conversation highlights the need for data collaboration and the potential of machine learning in agriculture. Overall, the episode provides insights into the evolving landscape of data in the agriculture industry. The conversation explores the challenges of standardization in agriculture, the need for standards and data infrastructure, and the limitations of AgTech software for small farmers. It also discusses the role of private equity in AgTech, the lack of venture funding, and the failure of big AgTech companies. 

The conversation concludes by highlighting the need for investment in innovation and predicting future trends in AgTech. In this conversation, Steven Rao and Nathan Faleide discuss the challenges and opportunities in the agriculture technology industry. They explore the need for a CRM system in agriculture and the slow adoption of popular CRMs in the industry. They also discuss the potential of taking investment to scale ag tech companies and the impatience of working in agriculture. The conversation highlights the evolution of ag tech over the years and the beginning of a new era in the industry. They also touch on the importance of AI and sustainability in agriculture and the need for better financial services for farmers. Finally, they discuss the challenges of land rental and wealth transfer in agriculture.

Takeaways

• Transparency and clear communication about data usage are crucial to build trust with farmers.
• Farmers are willing to share data if they see the value and benefit in return.
• Data collaboration among companies and farmers is essential for making better decisions and improving profitability.
• The integration of personal data with agricultural data can provide valuable insights and enable targeted marketing and research. Standardization is a major challenge in agriculture, particularly in precision agriculture where every square inch of soil is different and data needs to be delivered to specific equipment.
• The lack of standards in agriculture hinders cooperation and levels the playing field for those with less data, making it difficult to achieve maximum yield potential.
• Private equity investment in AgTech is limited due to the high risk and low scalability of many AgTech companies, resulting in a lack of funding for early-stage ventures.
• The failure of big AgTech companies to deliver returns on investment raises concerns and may discourage further investment in the industry.
• There is a need for increased investment in data infrastructure and innovation in order to address the complex data challenges in agriculture and drive the growth of the industry. The agriculture industry needs a CRM system to manage sales, marketing, and customer interactions.
• Popular CRMs like Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics are not widely used in agriculture.
• Taking investment can help scale ag tech companies and drive innovation in the industry.
• The agriculture industry is evolving and entering a new era of technology and sustainability.
• There is a need for better financial services and risk management solutions for farmers.
• The challenges of land rental and wealth transfer in agriculture need to be addressed.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:03 Farm Market ID and Data Compilation

05:03 Challenges and Misconceptions about Farmer Data

08:19 Transparency and Value of Data

10:15 Data Privacy and Perception

12:27 Consumer Data and Analytics

23:23 Data Collaboration and Machine Learning

25:17 Evolution of Agriculture and Data Challenges

28:35 The Challenge of Standardization

29:13 The Need for Standards in Agriculture

30:19 The Difficulty of Implementing Standards

32:01 The Complexity of Precision Agriculture

33:22 The Challenges of Data in Agriculture

35:40 The Fragmented Nature of Agriculture

37:05 The Limitations of AgTech Software for Small Farmers

38:15 The Role of Private Equity in AgTech

40:23 The Need for Investment in Data Infrastructure

41:22 The Challenges of Raising Money for Big Data Problems

43:14 The Lack of Venture Funding in AgTech

45:02 The Failure of Big AgTech Companies

50:11 The Need for Private Equity Involvement in AgTech

53:28 The Lack of Investment in Innovation

56:33 Predicting Future Trends in AgTech

57:46 Building a CRM system for agriculture

58:14 The slow adoption of popular CRMs in agriculture

58:59 The challenges of developing ag-specific CRMs

01:00:03 The potential of taking investment to scale ag tech companies

01:01:07 The impatience of working in agriculture

01:01:30 The evolution of ag tech over the years

01:02:26 The opportunity for growth in ag tech

01:03:26 The beginning of a new era in ag tech

01:04:54 The need for innovation in ag tech

01:05:25 The potential of AI and sustainability in agriculture

01:09:08 The importance of financial services for farmers

01:11:10 The opportunity in AI and data management in agriculture

01:13:23 The need for standardized data collection in sustainability

01:14:21 The role of AI in managing agricultural data

01:15:13 The future of carbon credits and sustainability in agriculture

01:19:17 The importance of financial services for farmers

01:22:45 The need for better solutions to manage financial risk in agriculture

01:26:36 The challenges of land rental and wealth transfer in agriculture

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:24 Acreage Reporting Season and Deadlines 07:19 The Impact of CLU Inaccuracies on Program Payments 10:15 The Inaccuracies of CLU Data 15:04 The Cost of Inaccurate CLUs 26:01 The Need for Change in the Reporting Process 28:00 Conclusion

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview

06:23 Reflections on World Agri-Tech Conference

12:15 The State of Ag Tech Investment

18:51 Challenges for New Biologicals

24:44 The Evolution of Digital Solutions in Ag

30:50 The Future of Ag Technology

Takeaways

• Implementing blockchain technology in agriculture has challenges related to data storage, encryption, and the involvement of third parties.
• There is a need for data sharing and collaboration in agriculture to improve decision-making and optimize farming practices.
• Affordable and accessible technology is crucial for small-scale farmers to benefit from advanced agricultural practices.
• The majority of farmers operate on smaller scales and may not have access to or be interested in cutting-edge ag tech solutions.
• Investment in technology for small-scale farmers can have a significant impact on global food production and sustainability. There is a need for simpler and more affordable agricultural technology that is accessible to all farmers, including smallholders.
• Backward compatibility is important when adopting new technologies to ensure a smooth transition and compatibility with existing systems.
• AI and automation have the potential to impact jobs in agriculture and other industries, but they can also create new opportunities and improve efficiency.
• Consistent and high-frequency data is crucial for training AI models effectively and obtaining accurate insights.
• Multimodal interfaces, where farmers can have conversations with AI assistants, hold potential for improving communication and decision-making in agriculture. AI assistants have the potential to become higher-order assistants that can provide real-time information and reminders.
• The integration of AI and the ability for AIs to communicate with each other will revolutionize the agricultural industry.
• Smaller, more modular changes in software and technology adoption are necessary for success.
• Standards play a crucial role in the integration and compatibility of different technologies.
• The concept of a circular economy in agriculture, where inputs and outputs are recycled and reused, has the potential to create more sustainable and efficient farming practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:23 Challenges of Implementing Blockchain in Agriculture

25:12 Affordable and Accessible Technology for Small-Scale Farmers

30:52 The Concentration of Ag Tech Solutions on Large-Scale Farms

34:59 Investing in Technology for Small-Scale Farmers

38:42 The Importance of Backward Compatibility in Technology Adoption

43:39 The Impact of AI and Automation on Jobs in Agriculture

53:05 The Role of Data in Training AI Models

01:02:14 The Potential of Multimodal Interfaces in Agriculture

01:04:14 The Future of AI Assistants

01:05:38 The Integration of AI and AIs Communicating with Each Other

01:07:17 Challenges of Onboarding New Software and the Need for Modular Changes

01:08:54 The Importance of Standards in Technology Integration

01:14:21 Exploring the Potential of a Circular Economy in Agriculture

In this episode of Ag Uncensored, Nathan Faleide interviews Dave Swain owner of Vision Technology Management a consultant company he create being an expert in AgTech and precision ag. They discuss the challenges of implementing technology in agriculture and the importance of focusing on the basics. They highlight the need for proper equipment maintenance and calibration, as well as the importance of accurate yield data. They also touch on the limitations of high-resolution imagery and the need for a solid business model in the ag tech industry. The conversation highlights several key themes in the ag tech industry. One theme is the need to address the basics before implementing complex technologies. The speakers discuss the importance of fixing fundamental issues like soil pH and nutrient levels before adopting advanced tools. Another theme is the overpromising and underdelivering of ag tech solutions, which has led to skepticism and low adoption rates. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating the ag tech market, including the influx of new companies, the reliance on venture capital funding, and the difficulties of getting paid by large corporate customers. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by large corporates in paying bills on time, which can have a negative impact on smaller businesses. The discussion also touches on the lack of investment in agriculture technology by larger companies, with the focus being on acquiring struggling companies rather than investing in innovative solutions. The idea of government funding and support for ag technology is proposed as a way to drive adoption and solve larger industry problems. The importance of understanding and defining industry terminology and standardizing data infrastructure is emphasized as a way to improve communication and collaboration within the industry. In this final part of the conversation, Nathan Faleide and Dave Swain discuss the challenges of implementing data standards and collaboration in the agriculture industry. They highlight the competitive nature of the industry and the lack of cooperation between major companies. They also discuss the importance of data ownership and control, as well as the need for farmers to have confidence in new technologies and tools. They emphasize the value of starting small and making incremental changes to improve farming practices. Overall, they advocate for simplifying the adoption of technology in agriculture and focusing on practical solutions.

Takeaways

• Implementing technology in agriculture requires a focus on the basics, including equipment maintenance and calibration.
• Accurate yield data is crucial for making informed decisions, but it can be challenging to obtain due to discrepancies in reporting and calibration.
• High-resolution imagery has its limitations, and it is important to consider the practicality and scalability of using such data.
• The ag tech industry needs a solid business model that benefits all stakeholders and ensures a return on investment. Addressing the basics, such as soil pH and nutrient levels, is crucial before implementing advanced ag tech solutions.
• The ag tech industry has a history of overpromising and underdelivering, leading to skepticism and low adoption rates.
• Navigating the ag tech market can be challenging due to the influx of new companies, reliance on venture capital funding, and difficulties in getting paid by large corporate customers. Large corporates need to prioritize paying bills on time to avoid negatively impacting smaller businesses.
• Investment in agriculture technology by larger companies should focus on innovation rather than acquiring struggling companies.
• Government funding and support can drive adoption of ag technology and help solve industry problems.
• Standardizing industry terminology and data infrastructure is crucial for effective communication and collaboration. The agriculture industry faces challenges in implementing data standards and collaboration due to the competitive nature of the industry.
• Data ownership and control are important considerations for farmers when adopting new technologies.
• Farmers need to have confidence in new technologies and tools, and starting small with incremental changes can help build that confidence.
• Simplifying the adoption of technology in agriculture and focusing on practical solutions can lead to improved farming practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:01 The Challenges of Implementing Ag Tech

11:18 The Importance of Basics in Precision Ag

28:13 The Impact of Mistakes and Overwhelm on Adoption

35:26 The Need for a Return on Investment and Simplification

37:14 The Challenges of Changing Farming Practices

38:05 The Complexity of Agricultural Technology

39:36 The Challenge of Keeping Up with Technology

40:16 The Rapid Growth of AgTech Companies

42:37 The Role of Venture Capital in AgTech

44:01 The Challenges of Adoption in AgTech

46:20 The Risks of Depending on Big Contracts

47:30 The Importance of Cash Flow in AgTech

49:03 The Impact of Late Payments on AgTech Companies

51:43 The Need for Government Support in AgTech

55:33 Reevaluating the Business Model of AgTech

58:43 Focusing on Core Business and Complementary Technology

01:03:31 The Challenges of Monetizing AgTech

01:04:46 Learning from Past Mistakes in AgTech

01:06:22 The Role of Consultants in Advancing AgTech

01:07:13 The Need for Wisdom and Perspective in Agriculture

01:08:19 The Importance of Understanding the Past

01:09:15 The Need for Curiosity and Listening in Agriculture

01:10:24 Collaboration between Industry and Government

01:11:33 The Importance of Communication and Standardization

01:12:21 The Miscommunication and Lack of Listening in Agriculture

01:13:18 The Importance of Clear Communication and Definitions

01:14:25 The Need for Perspective in Agriculture

01:15:26 The Importance of Infrastructure and Data Security

01:16:29 The Role of Industry and Government in Standardization

01:18:19 The Challenges of Collaboration in Agriculture

01:19:31 The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Agriculture

01:20:27 The Challenges of Bureaucracy in Agriculture

01:21:39 The Role of Crop Insurance in Incentivizing Adoption

01:22:29 The Role of Crop Insurance Agents in Data Management

01:23:39 The Importance of Data Processing and Information

01:24:38 The Value of Asking the Right Questions

01:25:48 The Limitations of Imagery and Data

01:26:36 The Limitations of Artificial Intelligence

01:27:40 The Importance of Incremental Change in Agriculture

01:28:30 The Need for Simple and Practical Solutions

01:29:46 The Role of Farmers in Agriculture

01:30:22 The Challenges of Adoption and Return on Investment

01:32:21 The Importance of Time and Replications in Data Analysis

01:33:45 The Value of Incremental Changes in Farming Practices

01:35:27 The Role of Technology in Managing Small Fields

01:37:34 The Importance of Understanding Yield Variability

01:39:15 The Need for Incremental Change and Confidence in Technology

01:40:18 Contact Information

In this episode, Nathan interviews Robert Saik of CEO and Founder of AGvisorPRO™ and visorPRO™ and former CEO of DOT (acquired by Raven Technologies, no CNH) and founder of AgriTrend (acquired by Trimble, now AGCO) about the adoption of agricultural technology and the challenges faced by farmers. They discuss the slow adoption rates of ag tech and the complexity of the technology. They also explore the potential of precision agriculture and the impact of acquisitions in the industry. 

The conversation touches on the role of biologicals in agriculture and the future of input companies. They conclude by discussing the need for alignment between agriculture and consumers to ensure a sustainable and transparent food supply. 

The conversation covers various topics related to agriculture, technology, and consumer behavior. It explores the control of narrative by agri-food companies, the perception of blueberries by consumers, and the impact of the sustainability index on consumer choices. 

The discussion also delves into the role of livestock in regenerative agriculture and the misconceptions surrounding greenhouse gas emissions. The concept of augmented intelligence in agriculture is explored, as well as the importance of broadband connectivity in rural areas. 

The conversation concludes with a reflection on the potential shift of agricultural production to other countries and the need for sustainable practices to leave a better earth for future generations.

Takeaways

The adoption of agricultural technology has been slow, with many farmers hesitant to embrace new tools and systems.

Interoperability challenges and the complexity of ag tech have hindered widespread adoption.

Simplifying ag tech and making it more user-friendly is crucial to increasing adoption rates.

The potential of precision agriculture is vast, but there are still barriers to overcome, such as cost and ease of use.

The rise of biologicals in agriculture presents new opportunities for sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

There is a need for alignment between agriculture and consumers to ensure a transparent and sustainable food supply.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background 03:16 Adoption of Ag Tech 06:23 Interoperability Challenges 10:27 Simplifying Ag Tech for Farmers 14:24 The Potential of Precision Agriculture 18:10 Acquisitions and the Future of Automation 22:20 The Hesitance to Adopt Ag Tech 25:21 The Importance of Cost Savings 28:17 The Role of Biologicals in Agriculture 32:52 The Future of Input Companies 35:06 The Rise of Biologicals 39:08 Consumer Perception and Alignment 41:56 Controlling the Narrative in Agri-Food Companies 43:14 Consumer Perception of Blueberries 44:16 The Sustainability Index and Consumer Behavior 45:26 Consumer Choices and Perception of Food 46:27 Regenerative Agriculture and Livestock 47:17 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Livestock 48:13 The Biogenic Cycle of Methane 49:54 Cultured Meat and Factory Farming 52:09 Augmented Intelligence in Agriculture 57:12 The Importance of Broadband Connectivity in Agriculture 58:22 The Impact of Technology on Agricultural Investment 01:05:05 The Potential Shift of Agricultural Production to Other Countries 01:07:19 The Shift in Metrics for AgTech Startups 01:10:07 Leaving More Earth for Future Generations 01:11:36 The Future of Agriculture and the Changing World

I talk about how the media and industry are obsessed with the latest shiny ag tech—like we’re all supposed to buy the $600 driver just to be better. But that’s not how it works. Most farmers, like most golfers, aren’t using all the fancy new stuff. They just want things that make sense for their setup. So yeah, this one’s a little different—more of a perspective piece.

AgTech doesn’t need to be a game only for the pros. We’ve got to understand who’s playing and what clubs they already have before we try to sell them a new driver. Hope it makes you think a bit differently about adoption, investment, and why some tools never really take off.

Timestamped Takeaways:

00:01: I start off by explaining the delay in releasing this episode due to sickness and travel, and discuss new directions for the podcast, including more solo content and weekly or monthly agricultural topics.

02:25: I reminisce about my earlier project, "Easy Observations," which focused on Earth observation and its applications in agriculture, and consider broadening the podcast's scope to include general space and Earth observation topics.

04:50: I'm interested in creating video showcases to highlight actual work being done in agriculture technology (Ag Tech) and providing honest evaluations of various software and tools in the industry.

06:56: I discuss the complexity and diversity of Ag Tech, the multitude of software and systems available, and the challenges of integrating and adopting these technologies in real-world agricultural settings.

09:22: I delve into the issues of low adoption rates for Ag Tech solutions, the overwhelming variety of tools, and the unrealistic marketing claims made by some companies. Transparency and practical demonstrations are crucial.

13:49: I introduce the concept of "gamifying" Ag software to make it more engaging and easier to use, drawing parallels to the gaming industry's approach to user education.

18:45: I outline a typical user's experience with Ag software, highlighting the frustrations and barriers they face, from confusing interfaces to unhelpful training resources and pushy sales tactics.

21:10: I propose creating video content where I, as a non-expert user, navigate various Ag software with guidance from company representatives, providing a realistic perspective on the software's usability and features.

25:54: I emphasize the importance of showing the development and functionality of software over time, rather than waiting for a perfect product, and how transparency can build trust and improve adoption.

30:50: I discuss the broader implications of software transparency for the Ag industry, encouraging companies to showcase their products openly and address both strengths and weaknesses honestly.

35:32: I highlight the need for an accessible platform where users can see and compare different Ag software in action, helping users make informed decisions and reducing the intimidation factor of new technologies.

39:12: I address the reluctance of some companies to showcase their software, fearing competition or criticism, and how open demonstration can drive improvement and adoption.

43:57: I point out the logistical challenges of transitioning to new software and the need for ongoing, accessible training content, suggesting that gamified, user-driven content could ease these transitions.

48:25: I reflect on the industry's tendency to target a small, high-end user base while neglecting broader adoption, calling for a more inclusive approach to technology adoption in agriculture.

50:17: I conclude by reiterating my plan to create and host these software showcase videos, encouraging feedback and collaboration from listeners and industry stakeholders.

52:29: I invite listeners to share their thoughts and express interest in participating in or supporting my new content initiative. Future collaborations and a continued focus on transparency and practical solutions in Ag Tech are on the horizon.

54:38: Wrapping up, I acknowledge the unique and experimental nature of this discussion and tease more unconventional content in future episodes. Your engagement and feedback are crucial as we move forward.

That’s it for this episode. I hope you enjoyed it and are as excited as I am about the new directions we’re exploring. See you next time!

Our discussion emphasized building an interconnected ecosystem in agriculture and the hurdles of integrating various software solutions. We talked about the importance of core systems of record, transparency, and genealogy data, as well as the challenges in funding traceability platforms. We also explored the evolution of technology in agriculture, balancing innovation with value drivers, and ensuring a return on investment.

We touched on the emotional strain within agriculture, the necessity of bringing in new talent, and managing generational transitions. The conversation wrapped up with a focus on the slow pace of technology adoption in agriculture, the importance of understanding the industry's growth process, and the evolving landscape of large agricultural organizations. We also discussed the shift in production from North America to other regions and the crucial role of trusted partners and advisors in helping farmers adopt new technologies. Throughout, we remained optimistic about the future of agriculture and the potential advancements in real-time digital transparent supply chains and AI.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Scheduling Challenges 02:09 Scott's Background in the Food Industry and Ag Tech 08:10 Challenges and Opportunities in Ag Technology 12:11 The Pace of Adoption in Agriculture 23:43 Building Comprehensive Solutions for the Agri-Food Ecosystem 29:12 The Shift Towards Traceability and Sustainability in the Agri-Food Industry 31:03 Building an Interconnected Ecosystem in Agriculture 32:07 The Challenges of Funding Traceability Platforms 39:02 Balancing Innovation with Value Drivers 49:27 Addressing the Emotional Strain in Agriculture 57:23 The Slow Pace of Adoption in Agriculture 01:05:34 The Evolution of Large Agricultural Organizations 01:06:12 Production Shift: North America to Global Markets 01:07:10 The Slow Adoption of Technology in the US Agriculture Industry 01:09:32 The Role of Trusted Partners and Advisors in Technology Adoption 01:11:33 The Importance of Patience, Innovation, and Capitalization 01:16:00 The Potential of Real-Time Digital Transparent Supply Chains and AI

Kerwin shared his fascinating journey in agriculture, from growing up on a wheat farm in Montana to working at Walt Disney World, and eventually becoming the Chief Production Officer at Black Gold Farms. We dived deep into the complexities of potato farming and the unique challenges and innovations in the industry. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

1. Potato Production Complexity (08:31.822)

• Potato farming is highly intensive and requires meticulous care due to the crop’s perishability and susceptibility to diseases and pests. Kerwin emphasized that everything wants to eat a potato, making it one of the most challenging crops to grow.

• Sustainability in potato farming is multifaceted. It involves not just reducing inputs but also ensuring the quality and yield are maintained. Innovations like biologicals and precision farming technologies are explored, but their adoption is often limited by practicality and measurable impact.

• Deploying new technologies on the farm is challenging due to the need for additional bandwidth and specialized personnel. Kerwin highlighted the difficulty in justifying the cost and measuring the value of new tech, making it crucial for providers to offer easy-to-use and low-cost solutions initially.

• Collaboration with land partners and adopting regenerative agriculture practices can significantly improve sustainability scores. However, this requires a shift from a “do no harm” approach to proactive collaboration across crop rotations and input management.

• The future of agriculture lies in more robust collaboration and understanding between producers and technology providers. Kerwin stressed the need for solutions that address real problems in a practical and efficient manner, enabling farmers to maintain productivity while meeting sustainability goals.

Thanks for tuning in, and I hope you found this episode insightful. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share Ag Uncensored with your friends. Stay tuned for more episodes where we dive into the real-world challenges and innovations in agriculture. See you next time!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to SoilTech Wireless and Its Journey

03:00 Challenges and Integration of Technology in Agriculture

13:09 Understanding the Needs of Farmers in Agriculture Technology

51:06 The Role of Champions in Integration

01:05:09 Simplicity and Functionality in Agriculture Technology

01:09:17 Excitement Around Industry Cooperation and the Cultivate Conference

Something open. Something others can build on. I’m calling it OpenFMIS. An open-core geospatial framework for agriculture. This isn’t another platform trying to lock people in. It’s a foundation. A base system that handles the core stuff everyone keeps rebuilding—field boundaries, users, layers, roles, and connections to things like imagery, weather, prescriptions, and more.

The point is: we’ve been missing trust, structure, and a common way to actually build this all that fits how farming works, not the other way around. I talk about what’s broken, what I’ve lived through, and why I’m not doing this just to shake things up. I’m doing it because I believe we need something different. Something that gives farmers control over their digital world. Something developers and ag companies can actually build on together, without having to start from scratch.

This is my Hail Mary, but it’s not just hope. It’s action. I’ve got the tech, the vision, and the scars and understanding to back it. I just need the right people to join in. So if you’ve ever felt like we’re missing the mark in this industry, this episode and concept is for you. Let’s build something better together.

In this episode, Nathan Faleide interviews Gottfried Pessl, the founder of Pessl Instruments, about his background in agriculture and the development of weather stations. Gottried shares his experiences growing up on a small farm in Austria and his transition into entrepreneurship. He discusses the importance of weather stations in agriculture and the impact of the Internet of Things on their development. Gottfried also draws parallels between the historical adoption of tractors and the current state and future of weather stations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the potential for robotics in agriculture and the challenges of marketing new products. This conversation explores the evolution of agricultural communication, the challenges of integrating hardware and software in ag tech, the value of weather stations and rain gauges in agriculture, the importance of soil moisture monitoring, the potential of AgTech adoption, and the need for collaboration in the industry. The conversation highlights the role of data-driven decision making and the importance of reliable weather and soil data in optimizing agricultural practices. It also emphasizes the potential of collaboration and data sharing among farmers and industry stakeholders to drive innovation and improve outcomes in agriculture.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:25 Background and History of Gottfried Pessl

04:14 Transition to Business and Entrepreneurship

06:32 Expansion of Pessl Instruments and Weather Stations

08:47 Importance of Weather Stations in Agriculture

13:00 Impact of Internet of Things on Weather Stations

15:42 Current State and Future of Weather Stations

25:12 Lessons from Historical Adoption of Tractors

29:00 Factors Influencing Adoption of Tractors

35:22 Applicability of Large-Scale Machinery and Robotics

39:11 Potential for Robotics in Agriculture

40:17 Marketing Power and Product Launches

40:56 The Evolution of Agricultural Communication

45:50 The Challenges of Hardware-Software Integration

48:30 The Importance of Reliable Weather Data

51:31 The Value of Weather Stations in Agriculture

53:00 Collaboration and Data Sharing in Agriculture

55:24 The Potential of Rain Gauges in Agriculture

59:25 The Importance of Soil Moisture Monitoring

01:03:41 The Challenges of AgTech Adoption

01:08:30 The Future of AgTech and Collaboration

01:18:08 The Role of Connectivity in Agriculture

01:20:41 The Potential of AgTech in Africa

01:23:36 The Need for Collaboration in AgTech