Shows
Black Soldier Fly LeadersCase Study: Inside The UK Organic Waste Industry - Chris SmitsThis conversation explores the dynamics of the waste management industry in the UK, focusing on the role of Elite Recycling Solutions and the potential of black soldier fly technology in processing food waste. Chris Smits discusses the challenges and opportunities in waste segregation, regulatory changes, and the comparative analysis of waste processing methods such as anaerobic digestion and incineration. The discussion highlights the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving sustainability and reducing waste in the food supply chain.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Waste Management and Black Soldier Fly03:03 Elite Recycling...
2026-02-1050 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersEngineering The Best BSF System Designs - Bob HoltermansIn this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, David Tavernor interviews Bob Holtermans, also known as the Flying Dutchman, who shares his journey from mushroom farming to the innovative world of insect farming. Bob discusses the challenges and complexities of the insect farming industry, the importance of operational efficiency, and the need for flexibility in feeding and production processes. He emphasizes the significance of climate control, moisture management, and the necessity for successful examples within the industry. Bob also provides insights into cost management and investment considerations, offering valuable advice for newcomers to the field.
2026-01-2748 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersA Deep Dive into China's BSF Industry - Ruilong ZhengIn this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, David Tavernor interviews Ruilong Zheng, who shares his journey into the black soldier fly (BSF) industry, his experiences at Protix, and insights into the nutritional challenges and innovations in BSF farming. Ruilong discusses the rapid growth of the BSF industry in China, regulatory challenges, and the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing for future success. He emphasizes the need for sustainable practices and aims to showcase successful BSF systems outside of China.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Black Soldier Fly Industry04:54...
2026-01-1359 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersRevolutionise your breeding input - Dr Yuval Gilad, CEO of FreezeMIn this episode,David Tavernor interviews Dr. Yuval Gilad, CEO of FreezeM, a company revolutionizing black soldier fly (BSF) farming technology. They discuss the evolution of BSF technology, the importance of collaboration in the industry, and the challenges of breeding and scaling production. Yuval shares insights on the future of BSF supply chains, the role of genetics in improving performance, and the financial strategies necessary for success in this growing field. The conversation also touches on regulatory challenges and the potential for BSF in global markets. You can contact Yuval by emailing Yuval@freeze-em.com
2025-11-1848 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersAchieving True Circular Economy Black Soldier Fly Production - Tommy Hooft, Co-Founder of Marula ProteenIn this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, host David Tavernor interviews Tommy Hooft, co-founder of Marula Proteen, a company focused on waste valorisation through the use of Black Soldier Fly larvae. Tommy shares his journey from studying business to establishing a sustainable agricultural model in East Africa, emphasising the importance of composting organic waste, particularly coffee pulp, to create extra special fertiliser that they call "Super-Charged Frass". The conversation explores the nutritional benefits of their frass, the company's growth strategy, funding challenges, and the significance of complementary skills in founding teams. Tommy also reflects on industry...
2025-11-0749 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersUtilising gate fees to scale your Black Soldier Fly Business - Luis Ortiz, CEO of Infinite Harvest TechnologiesIn this episode, Luis Ortiz from Infinite Harvest Technologies discusses the journey of his company, which focuses on waste upcycling using Black Soldier Flies. He explains the business model, the need for waste processing in Ontario, and the challenges and opportunities within the insect industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of collaboration, creative financing strategies, and the regulatory landscape in Canada. Luis emphasizes the need for simplicity in technology and the potential of insects in addressing food waste.TakeawaysInfinite Harvest Technologies focuses on waste upcycling using Black Soldier Flies.The...
2025-10-3145 min
Black Soldier Fly LeadersDeveloping niche, value-added markets in BSFIn this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, host David Tavernor speaks with Dean Smorenburg, CEO of Maltento, about his journey into the world of Black Soldier Flies (BSF) and the challenges and opportunities in the insect farming industry. Dean shares his unique story of how he transitioned from a traditional finance background to insect farming, driven by a passion for reducing food waste. The conversation delves into the business model of Maltento, the use of brewery waste as feedstock, and the transition to pet food and palatants. Dean discusses the importance of collaboration in the industry...
2025-10-2144 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersChallenges of the insects to pet food industryIn this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, host David Tavernor interviews Clayton Payne, who shares his extensive journey in the pet industry and his insights into the black soldier fly market. Clayton discusses the challenges and opportunities within the pet food sector, particularly regarding the integration of insect protein. He highlights the saturation of the market, consumer perceptions, and the pricing dynamics that affect the viability of black soldier fly as a primary ingredient. The conversation also explores alternative markets such as wild bird food and the future of Clayton's business, B.O. Buyer, focusing on...
2025-10-2141 minBlack Soldier Fly LeadersIs this the black soldier fly farm with the lowest cost of production in the world?In this episode of the Black Soldier Fly Leaders podcast, host David Tavernor interviews Andrew Wallace, co-founder of Chanzi, a pioneering company in the insect protein industry. Andrew shares his journey from various business roles in East Africa to discovering the potential of insect protein for animal feed. He discusses the unique model of Chanzi, which focuses on using waste for insect farming, the challenges of financing and scaling the business, and the importance of sustainability in waste management. The conversation also touches on the profitability of insect protein and the future of the industry, with Andrew offering valuable...
2025-10-2153 min