The Business of Agriculture Podcast

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Latest Episode

Why Tech Billionaires Keep Failing at Farming: Lessons in Ag Innovation

What happens when tech billionaires attempt to disrupt agriculture without understanding its fundamentals? In this episode, Damian Mason is joined by agtech experts Rhishi Pethe and Walt Duflock to analyze high-profile failures in agricultural innovation—highlighting ventures like Larry Ellison’s experimental farm in Hawaii and the struggles of Beyond Meat. Together, they explore the risks of “billion-arrogance”—where immense wealth and success in unrelated industries lead to misguided investments in farming and food systems. The discussion emphasizes the importance of aligning innovation with real agricultural challenges, economic sustainability, and the needs of producers and consumers alike. Essential listening for agribusiness professionals, ag investors, and anyone involved in food system innovation, this episode underscores the need for practical, problem-solving approaches to agtech development.

Sponsored by:

Harvest Returns harvestreturns.com
NewFieldsAg newfieldsag.com
Redox Bio-Nutrients  redoxgrows.com


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With a mix of monologue and guest episodes, this one puts the producer at the center. Damian has strong opinions and he’s not afraid to share them. You can agree or disagree, but he clearly knows his subject matter and audience well, and is always thought-provoking. His is a valuable perspective I try to keep top-of-mind.

– Geoff Bastow

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Damian travels all over the globe talking to audiences about trends in the business of food, fuel, and fiber. With his clever wit and down-to-earth delivery, he has turned these topics into an interesting (and sometimes controversial) podcast.

Find The Business Of Agriculture Podcast with Damian Mason wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.

New releases every Monday. Subscribe to get notified of news and special updates.

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