Best Local Business Grower Podcasts (2024)

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Ep. 23 - Insights on IPM and Biocontrols With Michelle Opela at Costa Farms 37:56

2h ago37:56

37:56

Michelle Opela, Senior IPM Manager at Costa Farms, will be giving two talks at Cultivate on the topic of IPM and biocontrols in the greenhouse. Michelle’s career path started with studying biology at Cornell University. After a brief stint in marine biology, she joined Costa’s R&D team eight years ago, eventually finding her way into managing the c…

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TTG Shorts | A Tribute To Anthony Bourdain 32:21

2d ago32:21

32:21

Come hang out with JTM and SVC as we continue digging into a new segment called TTG Shorts. This series will take you through fun and meaningful reviews of your favorite local businesses. In this episode, JTM takes a heartfelt moment to reflect on the impact that the late Anthony Bourdain has made not only on the industry but also on JTM. We hope y…

1
New Studio Who Dis & Hometown Blues 1:23:46

8d ago1:23:46

1:23:46

,,,We are back after a few weeks away from the microphones. While we were away though, Advanced Creative saw an expansion, doubling in size and offering TTG a brand-new recording studio. This is the first time in a several episodes hosts SVC, JTM , & Matt were able to record together as well. We spend much of our discussion catching up, sharing som…

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Ep. 22 - Costa Farms’ Mari Carrasquillo on the Emerging Role of E-Commerce in Floriculture 33:44

14d ago33:44

33:44

Mari Carrasquillo, Vice President of Marketing and E-Commerce at Costa Farms, has more than 25 years of experience in creating brand strategies for companies such as Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Food Saver. She joined the Costa Farms team in 2021 and currently focuses on developing and managing digital and e-commerce programs. Mari will be joining a …

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Ep. 21 - How Cheryl Wagner Greenhouse in Michigan Stays Connected to Plant Lovers 36:16

1M ago36:16

36:16

Greenhouse Grower Senior Editor Julie Hullett recently caught up with Cheryl Wagner, who runs a small greenhouse business near Ann Arbor, Michigan. In addition to being a staple at the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, Cheryl also hosts an annual Art and Garden Show at her greenhouse, the most recent one taking place on May 5. The event allows local artisa…

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Take The Risk with CEO | Entrepreneur | Investor - Tom Hall 1:32:01

1M ago1:32:01

1:32:01

What an amazing conversation this one was. TTG prides itself on bringing you closer to the Tri-Valley area's movers, makers, and shakers. And this episode does not disappoint. Tom Hall is the CEO & Founder of a real estate investment firm "Greenleaf Capital Partners." He is also a serial investor and an independent business owner with a wealth of e…

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Marketing Wine Country with Jenny O'Leary - Livermore Valley Wine Grower's 1:28:49

2M ago1:28:49

1:28:49

In this episode we are joined by Jenny O'Leary - the Marketing Coordinator for the Livermore Valley Wine Growers. It has been a while since we spent time with a wine country guest. Jenny gives us a good look into what you should know this summer. As well as sharing her story as another one of those Fremont transplants who has found a new home in th…

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Ep. 20 - The Latest Updates on the Future of Skagit Horticulture 44:43

2M ago44:43

44:43

In early February, Skagit Horticulture in Washington announced it would be shutting down within a couple of months. Then in early April, the news broke that Smith Gardens had stepped in to acquire a portion of Skagit’s operations. In this episode, we talk to Scott Crownover at Skagit and Eric Smith at Smith Gardens to learn more. https://www.greenh…

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The Brooklyn Born Muffin Man 1:14:11

2M ago1:14:11

1:14:11

In this episode, we are joined by Owner and Founder of The Muffin Lab - Janneh Merritt. Brooklyn-born & raised foodie was brought to the West Coast by the emerging tech industry. After spending over a decade in the industry, in June of 2023, Janneh decided to go all in on himself. Launching the Muffin Lab! Like many of our guests, Janneh is a licen…

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Ep. 19 - Why Having a Succession or Exit Plan for Your Business Is More Critical Than Ever 34:56

2M ago34:56

34:56

So far in 2024, we’ve seen too many large greenhouse operations shutting down, and while there are many reasons for this, one of the biggest is the lack of a succession plan or an exit strategy. In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Cimaglio, Managing Director of PivotPoint Business Solutions. Chris and his team specialize in helping growers build v…

1
Join Us at Farm Resort: 2 Days of Game-Changing Farming Secrets with JM Fortier 26:21

2M ago26:21

26:21

Join us at the Farm Resort in White Wright, Texas on April 27th and 28th for an event that will transform your farming skills. Learn from JM Fortier, an experienced market farmer and speaker. Get ready for workshops on boosting farm productivity, soil management, and innovative growing techniques. You'll also have the opportunity to see hands-on de…

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Corner Slice Pizza Shop 1:43:01

3M ago1:43:01

1:43:01

What an episode—the long-awaited arrival of Livermore's newest and hottest pizzeria. Kam and Joe Fernandez join us for an episode that you won't want to miss. While we went a bit long on this one, the conversation flows effortlessly as we learn more about this Guamanian or Chamorro couple. It is an inspiring story that we are lucky to have landed h…

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Ep. 18 - New Varieties, Consumer Trends, and More With Must Have Perennials 31:34

3M ago31:34

31:34

Greenhouse Grower’s April issue features a heavy focus on perennials, from new varieties to production tips. We also addressed marketing trends, what consumers are looking for in new plants, and how growers and breeders are responding. In this episode, I sat down with Justin Wisniewski and Kris Smith at Aris Horticulture and Must Have Perennials to…

1
Late Night Tacos - Not Quite A Review? 34:47

3M ago34:47

34:47

JTM & Matt try a new format this week as Savannah celebrates being accepted into Grad School. TTG Crew is excited to dig more into a new review style format that is hopefully unique to us. Please leave us a review after the show and let us know what you think.

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Farming After 50: Adapting for Mobility 31:48

3M ago31:48

31:48

This talk with returning guests from Bouldin Food Forest. Vanessa Bates and Ben McConnell are for individuals interested in or currently engaged in market farming and navigating the new challenges and opportunities that come with being over 50. As we age, our physical capabilities can change, and once straightforward tasks may become more demanding…

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Ep. 17 - Doug Cole of D.S. Cole Growers on Varieties, H-2A, Certification, and More 30:13

3M ago30:13

30:13

Doug Cole is the owner of D.S. Cole Growers, a young plant and finished plant grower based in Loudon, NH. The team at D.S. Cole is constantly on the hunt for what’s new, and the company also places a huge emphasis on certification for clean production, sustainability, and more. I caught up with Doug in the middle of a busy spring season, right befo…

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When Disaster Strikes: Real Stories of Farm Resilience & Recovery 44:04

3M ago44:04

44:04

In September 2023, Bouldin Food Forest faced a test of strength and spirit when ferocious winds tore through their farm, ravaging structures and leaving chaos in their wake. In this heartfelt video, Vanessa and Ben unveil the reality of severe weather impacts on agriculture and share a powerful testament to resilience and recovery. Watch as they re…

1
Blind Tastings & Birthdays 1:22:05

3M ago1:22:05

1:22:05

A familiar voice joins Team TTG - Nakoah hits the microphone with us and let's us help bring in the day. We spin the tires on some local happenings in the food and beverage world. Followed by diving into a great blind tasting of 3 wines provided by SVC. Tune in and see if you can't guess the varietals alongside JTM & Nakoah. Be sure to subscribe an…

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A Bigger in Texas Market Farm | Bouldin Food Forest 1:33:25

3M ago1:33:25

1:33:25

Meet Ben and Vanessa of Bouldin Food Forest serving the Austin, Texas market. Bouldin Food Forest grows rich, nutrient-dense food using regenerative agriculture methods. It’s a throwback to when agriculture was about craftsmanship, not industrial mechanization and chemicals favored by today’s large factory farms. The result: beautiful vegetables an…

1
8 Profit Crops for Greenhouse Growing 1:49:43

3M ago1:49:43

1:49:43

The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook What crops make the most money in a Hoop House? What options do farmers need when growing year-round? What are ways big growers leverage every square inch of protected culture? Andrew Mefferd, the author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Growers Handbook, discussed his motivation and observations in wr…

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How To Get The Most Out Of 2024 - Principles & Themes 1:28:16

4M ago1:28:16

1:28:16

Join the crew as we share our thoughts on a few themes that we believe will help you get the most out of 2024. While we may never hit bullseye having a good finger on the pulse of the market is always beneficial. We take turns diving into themes that resonate with us as we continue to tread forward into the New Year. Savannah and JTM find common gr…

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Ep. 16 - How Urban Buds Turned an Abandoned Greenhouse Into a Local Favorite 37:06

4M ago37:06

37:06

Urban Buds City Grown Flowers is a St. Louis-based company that emerged from the shell of an abandoned greenhouse to become a favorite supplier of cut flowers in their community. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, I spoke with Mimo Davis, co-founder of Urban Buds, about her path from social work to floriculture, how the company emerged…

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All Things Livermore Valley With Mayor John Marchand 1:33:24

4M ago1:33:24

1:33:24

What an episode this was - we were joined by Livermore's very own Mayor John Marchand. We touch on so many relevant topics relative to what it takes to build and foster a community like the one we have here in Livermore. But we also get to hang out and chat with a side of John Marchand that you do not often get to see. JTM hooks up the mayor with a…

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All Things Downtown Livermore with Ruby Lopez-Villareal 1:30:57

4M ago1:30:57

1:30:57

Did you know that Livermore was voted the best downtown in the East Bay 2023? Over the past several years, downtown Livermore has taken off and is attracting visitors from all over the Bay Area to its sidewalks. In this episode, we are joined by Livermore Downtown Inc Executive Director Ruby Lopez-Villareal who gives us a look into what it takes to…

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Ep. 15 - The Plantpeddler Team on Variety Trials, Advocacy, Innovation, and More 54:53

4M ago54:53

54:53

Plantpeddler in Cresco, IA, is one of the floriculture industry’s most innovative growing operations. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we catch up with the Plantpeddler team to learn more about their variety trials, the importance of industry advocacy, and much more. Here’s our conversation.…

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GMO Vs. Hybrid Seeds- A Very Deep Dive with Andrew Mefferd 1:44:04

4M ago1:44:04

1:44:04

We dive deep. And we mean deep into how hybrid seeds are developed and brought to market with Andrew Mefferd. Andrew is the owner/editor of Growing For Market Magazine, author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook, and served many years at the trial farm at Johnny's Selected Seeds. His intense knowledge of seeds and the seed industry m…

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The Art Of Event Planning | Joyfully Gathered 1:21:16

4M ago1:21:16

1:21:16

In our second episode of the year, we are joined by Danielle and Hannah of Joyfully Gathered. Joyfully Gathered is a Northern California based event planning and design company founded by friends turned workwives. Danielle and Hannah give us a look into their business and everything you need to know to throw or book your next event. Locally based t…

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Livermore Half Marathon w/ Curtis Lillie 1:36:06

5M ago1:36:06

1:36:06

2024, here we go!! Through the Grapevine is back in the studio and ready for another lap around the sun. Curtis Lillie is a Livermore local, pastor at Discovery Church, long-time Story Coffee, and the organizer of the premiere run club here in Livermore. For many of us, the new year is a time for fresh starts or triumphant redos. Curtis is a local …

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What Do Farm Nerds Talk About After Hours? 1:50:34

4M ago1:50:34

1:50:34

A family reunion of sorts, Bootstrap Farmer welcomes Andrew Mefferd, publisher of Growing for Market Magazine and author of The Greenhouse and Hoop House Grower's Handbook, to the studio, along with Bootstrap Farmers Director of Sales Randy Cummings & Customer Service Specialist Kari Danial. Host Nick, Randy, and Andrew have known each other for cl…

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Ep. 14 - How Metrolina Greenhouses Takes a Smart Approach to Technology 23:00

5M ago23:00

23:00

Metrolina Greenhouses is widely considered to be an industry leader not just in adopting new greenhouse technology, but in doing so for the right reasons. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we catch up with Abe and Art Van Wingerden of Metrolina to learn why and how they take this approach, and much more. Here’s our conversation.…

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Reaction to JM Fortier Interview by Bootstrap Farmer Podcast Crew 48:20

5M ago48:20

48:20

In this reaction video, the Bootstrap Farmer Podcast crew dives deeper into the JM Fortier interview with Bootstrap Farmer ( https://youtu.be/Kd_jZnRaQbk ) and discus individual takeaways from @TheMarketGardeners TIMESTAMPS: 00:17 Intro 00:45 Farm Sustainability 09:59 School and Healthy Living 19:45 Increasing Greenhouse Production 27:38 Keeping Yo…

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Ep. 13 - Joche Smith on Costa Farms’ Purchase of Battlefield Farms and More 23:51

5M ago23:51

23:51

Florida-based Costa Farms, the top grower on Greenhouse Grower’s Top 100 Growers list, kicked off the year in a big way with the acquisition of Battlefield Farms. In this episode of Greenhouse Grower to Grower, we caught up with Joche Smith, CEO of Costa Farms, to learn why now was the best time to make a move like this, what else Costa Farms has p…

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Market Gardener Sales Channels 1:14:49

5M ago1:14:49

1:14:49

Being a Market Gardener means serving our buyers where they are most likely to convert into repeatable sales at prices to keep you thriving in your agricultural business. In this episode, we look at many sales opportunities small farms have to serve their markets through traditional farmers markets, direct-to-consumer delivery, partnerships, and ad…

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FARM AMBASSADOR, MICHAEL BELL, DALLAS 1/2 ACRE FARM 1:28:34

5M ago1:28:34

1:28:34

No stranger to the DFW growing community, Michael Bell runs a small farm just outside Dallas, TX. He sells direct to consumer seasonal salad veggies directly to his clients on his low-stress terms. If you think you need a lot of acreage or even a water supply, check out what Michael has accomplished, truly keeping a manageable scale as he bootstrap…

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Who Can Be a Market Gardener| Market Gardener Podcast by Bootstrap Farmer, Ep2 36:27

5M ago36:27

36:27

Nick & Karl Binger of Market Garden Paris Natural Farms discuss the qualities of a great market gardener. Patience, planning, and hard work will go a long way as new farmers leave corporate jobs, start second incomes & plan retirement income goals. ************************************ Thanks for listening. Bootstrap Farmer! ► Subscribe and hit the …

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Ep. 12 - Hoffman Nursery Looks Back at 2023 and Ahead to 2024 32:40

6M ago32:40

32:40

Hoffman Nursery in Rougemont, NC, has been growing ornamental and native grasses for more than 35 years. This week we had the chance to catch up with David Hoffman and Alex Stanley at Hoffman Nursery, right before the winter trade show season kicks off. We talked about what they’re most excited about for the coming year, and a lot more.…

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What is a Market Gardener? | Market Gardener by Bootstrap Farmer, Ep 1 1:04:11

6M ago1:04:11

1:04:11

Are you a Gardener, Hobby Farm, Farmer, or Market Gardner? Bootstrap Farmer supports all growers no matter where they are scaled. But in this new Market Gardener series, we are diving deep into what drives local food and food economics through the lens of farmers working their land year-round. In this first episode, Nick & Karl Binger of Paris Natu…

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Jean-Martin Fortier A Celebration of Small Farming 1:05:44

6M ago1:05:44

1:05:44

Bootstrap Farmer engages in an enlightening conversation with legendary Jean-Martin Fortier @TheMarketGardeners on various subjects concerning the state of small-scale farming as a profession. We share the belief that there's a vast potential to cater to all market sizes, and it's crucial now more than ever for those at the forefront of this sector…

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That Wasn't in the Outline! - The End of the Season Outtakes and Bloopers Reel 8:15

6M ago8:15

8:15

In 39 episodes, we've covered a variety of topics and have had a lot of fun doing it. These are some of the most laughable moments, most of which never made it past the cutting room floor. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on Facebook at Pendleton's Country Market for updates about our farm We can also be found…

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Ep. 11 - The Greenhouse Grower Team Looks Back at 2023 and Ahead to 2024 28:14

6M ago28:14

28:14

As we wind down 2023 and plan for the coming year, Greenhouse Grower editors Brian Sparks and Julie Hullett reflect on their favorite moments from floriculture in 2023, and why they’re excited about the coming year.By Greenhouse Grower

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Reflections on 2023: A Year In Review 21:54

6M ago21:54

21:54

As we bid farewell to an eventful 2023, John and Karen reflect on their 40th year in business, remembering the challenges and successes that made this year one to remember. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on Facebook at Pendleton's Country Market for updates about our farm We can also be found on Instagram at…

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Friendship Unscripted: Karen, John and Jeff Stafford 23:50

6M ago23:50

23:50

Karen and John sit down with long-time friend, Jeff Stafford, to reminisce about their relationship spanning almost five decades. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on Facebook at Pendleton's Country Market for updates about our farm We can also be found on Instagram at pendletonscountrymkt Email us with questio…

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Evergreens, Amaryllis and Poinsettias 22:50

7M ago22:50

22:50

Evergreens, Amaryllis, and Poinsettias stand as quintessential symbols of the holiday season, adorning homes and festive spaces with their timeless beauty and significance. Today, John and Karen share how to care for these plants so they remain vibrant through the new year. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on …

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Ep. 10 - Jan Gulley of Gulley Greenhouse 14:01

7M ago14:01

14:01

Jan Gulley is one of the owners of Gulley Greenhouse in Fort Collins, Colorado. Gulley Greenhouse is an innovative operation that pays close attention to consumer needs, as well as trends in new varieties. We recently talked to Jan about her love of plants, why continuing education is so important, and what’s next at Gulley Greenhouse.…

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Rose Mary Riley Continued 50:38

7M ago50:38

50:38

In part 2 featuring Karen's mother, Rose Mary, we talk about the narrative of the family relocating to a farm in Piqua, Kansas. The conversation unfolds around the challenges and joys of raising four children amidst the rural backdrop, the subsequent move to Iola, Kansas and Rose Mary's journey from a teacher to a librarian. Support the Show. Check…

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A Fun Conversation with Karen's Mother 39:33

7M ago39:33

39:33

Karen and John are so fortunate to have Karen's 92 year old mother, Rose Mary Riley, living in Lawrence. For this weeks podcast, they sit down with her to reminisce about her life and growing up in a household with 9 children. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on Facebook at Pendleton's Country Market for updat…

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Ep. 9 - Brian Weesies of Mast Young Plants on Summer Field Trials 30:56

7M ago30:56

30:56

Brian Weesies manages summer field trials at Mast Young Plants. In this discussion, we talk about the importance of plant trials to other growers, brokers, and consumers, and the goals the Mast team sets each year.By Greenhouse Grower

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Jim and Mary 24:23

7M ago24:23

24:23

Meet Jim and Mary, the dynamic couple behind the scenes at Pendleton's Country Market, who work tirelessly to keep the production greenhouse up and running. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pendletons.com Follow us on Facebook at Pendleton's Country Market for updates about our farm We can also be found on Instagram at pendletonscount…

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2023 Pendleton's Holiday Open House 22:28

8M ago22:28

22:28

Mark your calendar for Pendleton's Country Market's 32nd annual Holiday Open House, which takes place the weekend before and after Thanksgiving. In this episode, Karen and John promote the list of local vendors and farmers who will be selling hand crafted gifts for that special someone on your list. Support the Show. Check us out at: https://www.pe…

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Ep. 8 - Drs. Bridget Behe and Terril Nell on Their Years of Service to Floriculture 56:40

8M ago56:40

56:40

Just about everyone in the floriculture industry has met or worked with either Dr. Bridget Behe of Michigan State University or Dr. Terril Nell of American Floral Endowment at some point. Their paths have crossed at many points, and now they’ve each made the decision to step away from their long careers. While it seems like no one ever really “reti…

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