165: Glenn Behrman - Unmasking Hype, The Real Economics of Indoor Farming

Vertical Farming Podcast - Conversations with CEOs, Founders & Leaders in AgTech & CEA

Ever wondered why so many indoor farming ventures fail despite the hype? I've got the inside scoop from a true industry veteran.

Glenn Behrman, founder and president of CEA Advisors, brings over 50 years of experience in horticulture and indoor farming to our conversation. From his early days in the foliage industry to pioneering container farming, Glenn's journey is a testament to resilience and adaptability in a rapidly evolving field.

I delved into Glenn's perspective on the current state of indoor farming, exploring the challenges faced by newcomers and established players alike. He emphasizes the importance of a realistic, business-focused approach, cautioning against the pitfalls of easy money and unrealistic expectations that have plagued the industry.

We also discussed the potential opportunities in custom projects, the limitations of container farming, and the need for honesty and integrity in the industry. Glenn's insights on the recent demise of prominent indoor farming companies offer valuable lessons for anyone considering entering this space.

If you're curious about the real challenges and opportunities in indoor farming, straight from someone who's seen it all, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a no-nonsense look at what it really takes to succeed in this complex and evolving industry.

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Key Takeaways

5:55 Glenn's journey into vertical farming

27:48 Evolution of container shipping business

41:33 Automation and robotics in agriculture

47:35 Innovative ideas for container farming

54:05 Lessons from recent industry bankruptcies

Tweetable Quotes

"I have a life that people only dream about. I've had the highest highs and the lowest lows, but I just kept on putting one foot in front of the other."

"It's all a giant spreadsheet. Every facet of this industry is an Excel spreadsheet. On the left hand side you put all of the different exigencies. And then you have to make adjustments along the right hand side to get to that sweet spot."

"If somebody decides to go into this business, I think the first thing they need to do is go sit in a room by yourself and ask yourself, why am I doing this? If your response is for the money, don't do it. This is not a throw the money in and take the money to the bank. It just doesn't work that way."

Resources Mentioned

Website - https://cea-advisors.com/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/glennbehrman/

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Mentioned in this episode:

2025 US Indoor Farm Report

http://verticalfarmingpodcast.com/report