My journey from the kitchen to the farm started back in 2012, during a life sciences class at Johnson & Wales University. That's where I first encountered Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA)—think growing fresh produce right inside shipping containers. It sparked something in me, and even more so in my colleague Tom Smitherman. He is another Culinary Institute of America Chef, I was working with him at his wine distributor which was winding down.
Tom dove headfirst into the world of urban farming, becoming a standout success with Freight Farms and launching Hammock Greens in downtown Miami. His artisanal microgreens were a chef's dream: customizable in acidity and flavor intensity, with lettuces and greens delivered locally, organically, and daily.Fast-forward to 2020-2022, a turbulent time for everyone, including Hammock Greens. During those years, I shifted gears—serving seniors in assisted living, working as a corporate chef, and running a retail/ecommerce gourmet food store.
Through it all, one constant stood out: the remarkable results We were able to get from from a bio stimulant by Pure Future. For seven years, Tom witnessed healthier crops, accelerated growth, and increased harvest yields.
The ROI was undeniable, which is why I'm thrilled to partner with Pure Future Ventures as a distributor for their flagship product, Algae Root Max. Based in my hometown of Camillus, New York (just outside Syracuse, where I grew up). Pure Future Ventures keeps it simple and focused: one crop, algae. No byproducts, no distractions—just expert propagation in a vegetative state for maximum efficacy.This partnership feels like coming full circle, blending my culinary roots with innovative agriculture. Algae Root Max isn't just a biostimulant; it's a game-changer for growers seeking sustainable, high-performance results. Stay tuned as we bring this powerhouse to market—let's grow together!