Growing the Future

Wade Barnes: From Billion Dollar Startup to Starting Over Part 3

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Growing the Future Podcast, Wade Barnes, founder of Farmer’s Edge, shares his journey through the highs and lows of building a billion-dollar ag-tech company. He discusses the intense pressures of fundraising, navigating venture capital, and the challenges of going public. Wade reflects on key lessons learned, including the pitfalls of rapid growth, losing control of his company, and his new venture, Ronin. He also offers insights into the future of farm data, AI, and the carbon market.

Episode Notes

In this episode of the Growing the Future Podcast, Wade Barnes, founder of Farmer’s Edge, shares the raw and unfiltered story of his entrepreneurial journey—from the early days of pioneering precision agriculture to the pressure cooker of fundraising, navigating investor dynamics, and the hard lessons learned through an IPO.

🛠️ Key Topics Discussed:

• The highs and lows of raising capital and the hidden challenges of venture capital.
• The fear of growth and competition, and how it shaped business decisions.
• Insights into working with top investors like Kleiner Perkins, Mitsui, and Prem Watsa from Fairfax.
• Building a billion-dollar ag-tech company and the reality of public markets.
• How Farmer’s Edge became a leader in carbon offsets and the emerging potential of "insetting."
• The emotional and professional toll of losing control over his company.
• Wade’s thoughts on the future of farm data, AI, and why John Deere is leading the pack.
• His new venture, Ronin, and a return to the roots of higher-touch agronomy services.

🎧 Why You Should Listen:
Wade provides an honest look into the pressures of being a tech entrepreneur in agriculture, including what he would have done differently and why he believes a more personal touch with farmers is the key to success. Whether you're in agribusiness, tech, or just love a great entrepreneurial story, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and insights.

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