Dirt Smart
Dirt Smart brings bold conversations with the farmers, technologists, entrepreneurs, and change makers who are rethinking how food is grown, how land is cared for, and how technology is shaping the future of our food systems. No fluff. No jargon. Just bold ideas, hard-earned insights, and real-world stories from real people doing the work.From soil health to ag tech, climate resilience to farm entrepreneurship, we dig into the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future of food and the planet.If you're a grower, a builder, or just someone who gives a damn — you're in the right place.
Dirt Smart
Ep. #8 Hop Giant - Mike Roy
Michael (Mike) Roy is a farmer who leads a century-old hop farming business in Yakima, Washington and is one of the largest independent hop growers in the world. What started as a ten acre farm in 1907, Roy Farms is trusted among the smallest craft outfits to the largest brewery giants. This episode dives into Mike's journey in agriculture, the evolution of the hop industry, and the importance of sustainability and innovation in farming. Mike shares insights on navigating family business dynamics, partnerships in the industry, the impact of mental health in the day-to-day, leadership, and the potential future of the hop market. The discussion emphasizes the need for collaboration within the industry and the significance of community and relationships in achieving success.
Learn more about Roy Farms: http://royfarms.com/