S10E137 Max Knight and Eric Roth/Rooted Robotics - From Seed to Harvest: How Rooted Robotics is Transforming Small-Scale Farming

In this episode, I speak with Max Knight and Eric Roth, the Co-founders of Rooted Robotics. We dive into their journey from meeting at a large-scale vertical farm to starting their own company focused on affordable automation solutions for small and medium-sized farms. Max shares how his passion for robotics and engineering led to the creation of Rooted Robotics, while Eric discusses his extensive experience in the Agtech space and how it has shaped their approach to solving labor challenges in vertical farming.

We also explore the evolution of their business model, the importance of understanding unit economics, and the innovative products they are developing to help farmers increase efficiency and profitability. Max and Eric's insights into the industry, combined with their genuine desire to support and collaborate with other farmers, make this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of vertical farming and agricultural technology.

Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the practical solutions and real-world experiences driving success in the Agtech industry.

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Key Takeaways

5:46 Lessons from Kalera

15:30 Microgreens Seeder Innovation

19:43 Supporting Small and Medium-Sized Farms

24:46 Challenges Faced by Small Farm Owners

31:02 Maximilian and Eric's Comprehensive Farming Business Insights

35:05 AI and Robotics in Agriculture

38:27 Computer Vision in Vertical Farming

47:01 Balancing Custom Projects and Core Products

51:22 Advice for New Growers in the Industry

Tweetable Quotes

"We saw that labor is one of the biggest operating expenses of these facilities. There needs to be a middle ground where you do a lot of automation, but more affordably."

"The biggest lesson learned, especially when scaling, is understanding you might not have to automate your entire system on day one, but you need to plan for it."

"We need more collaboration and openness in the industry. A rising tide lifts all ships, and we need to create more positive stories about successful businesses."

Resources Mentioned

Website - https://www.rootedrobotics.com/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@RootedRobotics

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rootedrobotics/

Max’s LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/maximilianknight

Eric’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdroth/

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Mentioned in this episode:

2025 Precision Ag Report by iGrowNews

2025 Precision Ag Report

2025 Precision Ag Report by iGrowNews

2025 Precision Ag Report

Indoor AgCon 2025

Indoor AgCon 2025

CEA Summit East 2024

CEA Summit East 2024