095 - Business Lessons from the Greenhouse: Why Profound Foods Ditched Farming for the Hub

Jeff Bednar, founder of Profound Foods, returns to the podcast to discuss the evolution of his farming business, from starting with $2.6$ acres in North Texas to pivoting his model. Initially driven by a personal health journey, Profound Foods grew into a collaborative food hub to help small local farmers and ranchers overcome the high costs of distribution and marketing. Bednar details the transition from aquaponics to hydroponics for greater consistency and viability, and the strategic decision to close the expensive greenhouse operation to focus on the profitable food hub, commercial kitchens, and event space. He shares valuable business lessons, emphasizing the importance of partnerships, cutting losses early, and seeking guidance from business mentors, including his mother, who is a business coach. Bednar also provides practical advice for aspiring farmers, highlighting the crucial need to establish a market and sales channel before growing a product.For a summary and to connect with the guest, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-decoded-podcastProduced by www.andycostafilms.com