Ag Uncensored with Nathan Faleide

Episode 11 - Interview with Aaron Hutchinson

In this conversation, Nathan Faleide interviews Aaron Hutchinson current Founder and CEO of Lighthouse.Ag and former Founder and CEO of CropTrak. They talk about precision agriculture and AgTech and the decades of history Aaron has experienced within it. They discuss the challenges of implementing blockchain technology in agriculture, the need for data sharing and collaboration, and the importance of developing affordable and accessible technology for small-scale farmers. They also touch on the concentration of ag tech solutions on large-scale farms and the potential for innovation in serving the majority of farmers who operate on smaller scales. The conversation explores the need for simpler and more affordable agricultural technology that is accessible to all farmers, including smallholders. The speakers discuss the challenges of adopting new technologies and the importance of backward compatibility. They also touch on the potential impact of AI and automation on jobs in agriculture and other industries. The conversation highlights the need for consistent and high-frequency data to train AI models effectively. They conclude by discussing the potential of multimodal interfaces in agriculture, where farmers can have conversations with AI assistants to gather information and make decisions. The conversation explores the potential of technology in agriculture, focusing on the integration of AI and the need for more integrated solutions. It discusses the importance of multi-threaded AI assistants and the future possibility of AIs communicating with each other. The conversation also touches on the challenges of onboarding new software and the need for smaller, more modular changes. It highlights the slow adoption rate in agriculture due to financial and seasonal risks. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of standards and the potential for a circular economy in agriculture.
 
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

Episode 10 - Interview with Randy Barker Founder and CEO of Intent

In this episode of Ag Uncensored, host Nathan Faleide interviews Randy Barker, CEO of Intent, a company in the AgTech space. They discuss the evolution of precision agriculture practices from Western Canada and the US, the challenges of proving the effectiveness of AgTech solutions, and the role of AI and ML in agriculture. They also touch on the importance of agronomy and the need for practicality and skepticism when it comes to adopting new technologies. The conversation explores the challenges and debates surrounding the adoption of new agricultural technologies and equipment. It delves into the dilemma faced by farmers when deciding whether to upgrade to expensive, high-tech equipment or stick with their current, reliable tools. The conversation also touches on the limited market size for advanced agricultural technology and the importance of understanding the needs and preferences of farmers. It highlights the need for trust and confidence in the use of data in agriculture and the value of long-term, sustainable approaches in the industry. In this final part of the conversation, Nathan and Randy discuss the challenges and opportunities in the agriculture industry. They touch on topics such as investment strategies, the importance of understanding the financial aspects of farming, the need for smart decision-making in corporate agriculture, and the potential risks and benefits of biologicals in agriculture. They emphasize the importance of self-governance and responsible innovation in the industry.
 
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

Episode 9 - Interview with Michael Ott CEO of Cquesta and former CEO and founder of Rantizo

Summary
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

Episode 8 - Interview with Paul Schrimpf

Summary
 
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

Episode 7 - Interview with Carter Willams CEO of iSelect Fund

Summary
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

Episode 6 - Interview with Dave Swain owner of Vision Technology Management

Summary
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

Episode 5: Interview with Kip Pendleton

Summary
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

Episode 4 - Interview with Steve Rao former CEO of Farm MarketiD

Summary
 
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

Episode 3 - Interview with Gottfried Pessl founder of Pessl Instruments

Summary
 
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

Episode 2 - Interview with Rob Saik CEO and Founder of AGvisorPRO™ and visorPRO™

Summary
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 Background03:16 Adoption of Ag Tech06:23 Interoperability Challenges10:27 Simplifying Ag Tech for Farmers14:24 The Potential of Precision Agriculture18:10 Acquisitions and the Future of Automation22:20 The Hesitance to Adopt Ag Tech25:21 The Importance of Cost Savings28:17 The Role of Biologicals in Agriculture32:52 The Future of Input Companies35:06 The Rise of Biologicals39:08 Consumer Perception and Alignment41:56 Controlling the Narrative in Agri-Food Companies43:14 Consumer Perception of Blueberries44:16 The Sustainability Index and Consumer Behavior45:26 Consumer Choices and Perception of Food46:27 Regenerative Agriculture and Livestock47:17 Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Livestock48:13 The Biogenic Cycle of Methane49:54 Cultured Meat and Factory Farming52:09 Augmented Intelligence in Agriculture57:12 The Importance of Broadband Connectivity in Agriculture58:22 The Impact of Technology on Agricultural Investment01:05:05 The Potential Shift of Agricultural Production to Other Countries01:07:19 The Shift in Metrics for AgTech Startups01:10:07 Leaving More Earth for Future Generations01:11:36 The Future of Agriculture and the Changing World