The Plant Movement Podcast

Hosted by: Willie Rodriguez, Produced by: Eddie Gonzalez

Welcome to The Plant Movement Podcast, the ultimate podcast for entrepreneurs, enthusiasts, and professionals in the ever growing Green Industry. The Plant Movement was founded by Willie Rodriguez and Eddie Gonzalez.  This podcast brings you engaging conversations, expert insights, and actionable strategies to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in your business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, landscaper, garden center or simply passionate about the green industry, this podcast is your go-to resource for inspiration, knowledge, and success stories. LET'S GROW! Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez.

  1. Alimentando las plantas de forma más inteligente: el avance del 95% de absorción que está cambiando la agricultura con Dr. Robert Cubria de Tecnafert

    2D AGO

    Alimentando las plantas de forma más inteligente: el avance del 95% de absorción que está cambiando la agricultura con Dr. Robert Cubria de Tecnafert

    Send us Fan Mail En este poderoso y revelador episodio, el anfitrión Willie Rodriguez conversa con el Dr. Robert Cubria de Tecnafert para abordar una de las crisis más urgentes—y menos discutidas—de la agricultura moderna: la degradación del suelo y las consecuencias ocultas del uso convencional de fertilizantes. Con más de 17 años de investigación provenientes de un innovador proyecto universitario en España, el Dr. Cubria explica cómo el uso excesivo de fertilizantes químicos desde principios del siglo XX ha provocado suelos empobrecidos, contaminación de fuentes de agua e incluso posibles vínculos con problemas de salud humana como enfermedades renales. Pero esta conversación no se queda en el problema—se enfoca en soluciones reales. El Dr. Cubria profundiza en la ciencia de la nutrición vegetal, revelando por qué los fertilizantes tradicionales son ineficientes (con menos del 7% de absorción en muchos casos) y cómo la tecnología revolucionaria de Tecnafert está cambiando las reglas del juego. Mediante la ingeniería de moléculas a escala nanométrica y el uso de enlaces avanzados, su equipo ha logrado más del 95% de bioasimilación y una metabolización completa—utilizando hasta un 90% menos producto. En este episodio descubrirás: La verdadera razón por la cual los fertilizantes fallan en distintos suelos y climasCómo el tamaño molecular y la biología de la planta (como los plasmodesmos) limitan la absorción de nutrientesLa evolución de fertilizantes químicos a compuestos quelatados—y más alláUna molécula “inteligente” que responde a señales de la planta para liberar nutrientes en el momento adecuadoPor qué el sistema agrícola actual prioriza las ventas sobre las solucionesEl papel de la inteligencia artificial y la agricultura de precisión en el futuroLos desafíos del suelo en el sur de Florida y recomendaciones prácticas para productores en zonas como HomesteadCómo alianzas en Estados Unidos están trabajando para regenerar suelos y apoyar a los productores con datos en tiempo realLa importancia de la educación, el cambio generacional y el acceso a mejores herramientasEl Dr. Cubria también cuestiona las ideas tradicionales sobre la agricultura “orgánica”, proponiendo en su lugar un modelo de agricultura saludable, eficiente y escalable que garantice tanto la rentabilidad como la seguridad alimentaria global—especialmente ante una población que alcanzará los 10 mil millones de personas para el año 2050. Conclusión clave: Es momento de replantear cómo nutrimos a las plantas y enfocarnos en la precisión, la eficiencia y la sostenibilidad a largo plazo. ¿Tienes un reto en tu operación? Contáctanos—este episodio es solo el comienzo de una conversación mucho más grande. Escúchalo ahora y sé parte del movimiento. Contacto: bio@tecnafert.com Support the show

    1h 15m
  2. Feeding Plants Smarter: The 95% Absorption Breakthrough Changing Agriculture with Dr. Robert Cubria from Tecnafert

    2D AGO

    Feeding Plants Smarter: The 95% Absorption Breakthrough Changing Agriculture with Dr. Robert Cubria from Tecnafert

    Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and eye-opening episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, host Willie Rodriguez sits down with Dr. Robert Cubria of Tecnafert to unpack one of the most urgent—and overlooked—crises in modern agriculture: soil degradation and the hidden consequences of conventional fertilization. With over 17 years of research rooted in a groundbreaking university project from Spain, Dr. Cubria shares how the overuse of chemical fertilizers since the early 20th century has led to nutrient-depleted soils, water contamination, and even links to human health issues like kidney disease. But this conversation goes far beyond the problem—it’s about solutions. Dr. Cubria dives deep into the science behind plant nutrition, revealing why traditional fertilizers are inefficient (with less than 7% absorption in many cases) and how Tecnafert’s revolutionary technology is changing the game. By engineering molecules at the nanoscale and using advanced bonding techniques, his team has achieved over 95% bioassimilation and full metabolization—while using up to 90% less product. This episode explores: The real reason fertilizers fail across different soils and climatesHow molecule size and plant biology (like plasmodesmata) limit nutrient uptakeThe evolution from chemical fertilizers to chelated compounds—and beyondA breakthrough “smart molecule” that responds to plant signals to release nutrients at the right timeWhy current agricultural systems prioritize sales over solutionsThe role of AI and precision agriculture in the future of farmingSoil challenges in South Florida and practical insights for growers in regions like HomesteadHow partnerships in the U.S. are working to rebuild soil health and support growers with real-time dataThe importance of education, generational change, and empowering farmers with better toolsDr. Cubria also challenges conventional thinking around “organic” agriculture, advocating instead for a model of healthy, efficient, and scalable farming that ensures both profitability and global food security—especially as we approach a population of 10 billion by 2050. Whether you're a grower, nursery operator, ag professional, or simply passionate about the future of food, this episode is packed with cutting-edge insights and practical takeaways. Key Takeaway: It’s time to rethink how we feed plants—and start focusing on precision, efficiency, and long-term sustainability. Have a challenge in your operation? Reach out—this episode is just the beginning of a bigger conversation. Listen now and join the movement. Contact: bio@tecnafert.com Support the show

    1h 17m
  3. FloraTrack Ai | Smart Glasses & Smart Growers: The Future of IPM Is Here with Max and Dawson

    MAR 3

    FloraTrack Ai | Smart Glasses & Smart Growers: The Future of IPM Is Here with Max and Dawson

    Send us Fan Mail On Episode 90 of The Plant Movement Podcast, Willie Rodriguez sits down with Max and Dawson, the founders of Floratrack AI, to discuss how artificial intelligence and AR smart glasses are transforming scouting, IPM, and plant tracking inside modern greenhouses. What started six years ago as a pest identification app has evolved into a full-scale platform built “for growers, by growers.” Floratrack now helps operations track thousands of plants, log pest pressure in real time, standardize reporting, and integrate directly with systems like Plantiful through API connections. The game-changing innovation? Hands-free AR glasses that allow growers to:  • Log pests and crop issues while walking  • Analyze sticky cards  • Identify rows and fields instantly  • Access reports without stopping workflow No more clipboards. No more lost notes. No more relying on word-of-mouth. We also dive into:  • Data-driven decision making  • Standardization and accountability in the next 5–10 years  • Reducing unnecessary spraying  • Integration with future platforms  • Data privacy and ownership Floratrack offers user-based pricing and pilot programs for both the platform and glasses, helping growers test the system before fully committing. If you’re serious about modernizing your greenhouse operation, this episode gives you a clear look at where the industry is heading. Innovation isn’t optional anymore — it’s the standard. FloraTrack Ai Email: dawson@floratrack.ca Call: (250) 882-5229 Web: https://floratrack.ca/ai-smart-glasses The Plant Movement Podcast Email: eddie@theplantmovementnetwork.com & willie@theplantmovementnetwork.com Call: (305) 216-5320 Web: https://www.theplantmovement.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/theplantmovementpodcast A's Ornamental Nursery WE GROW | WE SOURCE | WE DELIVER Call: (305) 216-5320 Web: https://www.asornamental.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/asornamentalnursery The Nursery Growers Call: 786-522-4942 Email: info@thenurserygrowers.com IG: www.instagram.com/thenurserygrowers web: www.thenurserygrowers.com Plant Logistics Co. (Delivering Landscape Plant Material Throughout the State of Florida) Call: (305) 912-3098 Web: https://www.plantlogisticsco.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/plantlogistics Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez  Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast/youtube video are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial, accounting, or legal advice. I can’t promise that the information shared on my posts is appropriate for you or anyone else. By listening to this podcast/youtube video, you agree to hold me harmless from any ramifications, financial or otherwise, that occur to you as a result of acting on information found in this podcast/youtube video. Support the show

    40 min
  4. PGL Paul Capote | Debt, Discipline & Dominion: The Real Cost of Building in Today’s Green Industry

    FEB 17

    PGL Paul Capote | Debt, Discipline & Dominion: The Real Cost of Building in Today’s Green Industry

    Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and unfiltered episode, Willie Rodriguez sits down with Paul Capote owner of PGL, better known as the "Miami Landscaper", for a real conversation about debt, discipline, faith, leadership, and the future of the green industry. Paul has been in the industry for 17 years, and he’s still growing, still learning, and still refining. From surviving the COVID boom, to navigating heavy debt, vendor credit, and high-interest loans — this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a landscaping company in today’s Florida market. What We Cover: The Hard Years & The Reset 2023–2024 were tough. Cash flow pressure. Equipment debt. Vendor balances. 2025 became the year of repair — clearing trucks, stepping away from vendor credit, tightening operations, and building a stronger foundation. Debt & Financial Accountability– Why high-interest loans should only be used strategically– The danger of promising too much– Why knowing your numbers protects your business– The truth about vendor debt in the industry. Locking in Product & Managing RiskWith Florida freezes, volatile pricing, and supply chain uncertainty, Paul breaks down what it actually means to guarantee pricing in today’s environment.To lock in product means tying up capital, space, manpower, and deposits — sometimes increasing costs 25–40%. But for contractors who understand long-term vision? That $100K tied up today could unlock $4–6 million in opportunity tomorrow. Trust, Documentation & ProfessionalismHandshakes aren’t enough anymore. Quotes must be documented. Verbal agreements create chaos. We talk about: – Why eye contact matters – Why documentation protects everyone – Why accountability scares people – How shadiness is hurting the industry Raising the Standard of Blue-Collar WorkPaul speaks passionately about elevating tradesmen:– Remove the word “laborer”– Use titles like Landscape Design Tech– Create pride in the craft– Implement SOPs and production bonuses– Build structure with AI systems like Lana. Quality matters. Mulch glue matters. Details matter.“Put your name on it and make it perfect.” Faith, Growth & Breaking Generational CursesThis episode goes deeper than business. Paul opens up about: – Becoming a father – Bringing back his podcast “We the Tradesman” – Leading men’s groups – Prioritizing faith over fear – Losing a $100K client and not being shaken – Choosing peace over money “Money is just money. Opportunity to do God’s will is more powerful.” This is a conversation about becoming the kind of man — and business owner — who can handle what’s coming next. 🌱 The Bigger Picture We are the present and the future of this industry. The older generation is retiring. The decisions we make today will pioneer tomorrow. If you're a landscaper, grower, nursery owner, or tradesman trying to build something sustainable — this episode will challenge you to operate with clarity, discipline, and conviction. Hosted by Willie Rodriguez Produced by Eddie Gonzalez Follow Paul: @miamilandscaper Follow the show & watch clips on Instagram 🚀 Interested in being a guest or sponsoring an episode? Reach out. Every episode is about growth. Every conversation is about raising the standard. Welcome to Episode 89. Support the show

    56 min
  5. Holding Nothing Back | Last Episode of 2025 for The Plant Movement with Willie and Eddie

    12/31/2025

    Holding Nothing Back | Last Episode of 2025 for The Plant Movement with Willie and Eddie

    Send us Fan Mail On this Episode, host Willie Rodriguez and producer Eddie Gonzalez sit down for one of their most transparent and wide-ranging conversations yet. This episode isn’t about hype — it’s about reality. From rising costs and labor shortages to market saturation, real estate pressure, and the future of nursery ownership, Willie and Eddie openly discuss what’s happening right now in the Green Industry and what it will take to survive, adapt, and lead moving forward. The episode opens with gratitude — acknowledging A’s Ornamental Nursery, the team, and the clients who allow the podcast to exist as a platform for growth and learning. Willie also gives thanks to God for the opportunity to steward both the business and the responsibility that comes with having a voice in the industry. Willie and Eddie also extend an open invitation to nursery owners, garden centers, landscapers, and industry professionals to step up and share their stories on the podcast in 2026 — because the industry needs more voices at the table. Hard Topics That Need to Be Talked About This episode tackles conversations many avoid: Product pricing that hasn’t changed in decadesImmigration reform and its impact on laborWage increases and the real cost of doing businessRising interest rates and slowing home salesWhy only a shrinking percentage of the market still prioritizes plant qualityWillie shares perspective from his role on the FNGLA board, while Eddie brings a fresh lens as someone who didn’t grow up in the industry but understands its realities through lived experience. Economic Pressure & Market Reality Willie and Eddie break down: Why 2023–2024 slowed the industryHow middle-class spending on landscapes has declinedWhy high-end landscapers remain booked months outThe saturation problem — too much product, not enough movementThe harsh reality facing small nurseries trying to survive rising rents and shrinking marginsThey also discuss real numbers: land prices, lease contracts, annual rent increases, and how owning property may be the only path to long-term stability for nurseries. Leadership, Boundaries & Business Discipline This episode reinforces powerful lessons learned in 2025: Stop bending over backwards for people who don’t respect your businessRequest depositsProtect cash flowRespect your time, your team, and your boundariesNot everything works — and that’s okayWillie shares hard-earned wisdom on sacrifice, discipline, and what it truly takes to build something solid: 3 years to start5 years to become credible10 years to become stableSales Strategy, Risk & Transparency The hosts walk through: Slower summer months and the strategies used to survive themDiscounting excess inventory responsiblyCreative sales terms like 90-day pickupA major Clusia giveaway that cleared land, built goodwill, and sparked industry conversationThey also discuss how social media has become a portfolio, not a crutch — emphasizing transparency, quality, and trust over vanity metrics. Looking Ahead The episode closes with forward-thinking plans: Inventory management systemsA future online plant storeStronger accountability across operationsA renewed commitment to community, honesty, and collaborationWillie and Eddie wrap up with gratitude, humility, and a reminder that challenges are often the very thing that Support the show

    1h 17m
  6. Toledo Iron Works | Custom Metalwork - Forging Legacy and Luxury with Bryan Suarez

    12/02/2025

    Toledo Iron Works | Custom Metalwork - Forging Legacy and Luxury with Bryan Suarez

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with Bryan Suarez, fourth-generation metal artisan and owner of Toledo Iron Works, to explore how a family legacy forged in 1969 continues to shape luxury construction and design across South Florida and beyond. Bryan shares the fascinating story of how his great-grandfather and grandfather built a business that began with burglar bars and evolved into one of the region’s most respected names in custom ornamental metalwork. From hand-forged staircases and driveway gates to one-of-a-kind gazebos and trellises, Toledo Iron Works brings craftsmanship, technology, and artistry together to transform spaces into experiences. Listeners will discover:   The origins of Toledo Iron Works and how “old-school” techniques meet modern design.The behind-the-scenes process of fabricating and installing large-scale architectural metalwork.  How technology like Company Cam and innovative materials such as wood-grain aluminum elevate their craft. The challenges and rewards of leading a multigenerational family business.  How collaboration between industries — from metalwork to landscaping — creates unforgettable outdoor environments.Bryan also offers heartfelt insights for young entrepreneurs stepping into family businesses, emphasizing leadership, adaptability, and staying ahead of design trends. From tradition to innovation, this episode captures the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose in shaping both metal and mindset. Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez  Toledo Iron Works Email: info@toledoironworks.com or Bryan@toledoironworks.com IG: www.instagram.com/toledo_iron_works web: https://toledoironworks.com/ The Plant Movement Podcast Email: eddie@theplantmovementnetwork.com & willie@theplantmovementnetwork.com Call: (305) 216-5320 Web: https://www.theplantmovement.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/theplantmovementpodcast A's Ornamental Nursery WE GROW | WE SOURCE | WE DELIVER Call: (305) 216-5320 The Nursery Growers Call: 786-522-4942 Plant Logistics Co. (Delivering Landscape Plant Material Throughout the State of Florida) Call: (305) 912-3098 Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast/youtube video are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial, accounting, or legal advice. I can’t promise that the information shared on my posts is appropriate for you or anyone else. By listening to this podcast/youtube video, you agree to hold me harmless from any ramifications, financial or otherwise, that occur to you as a result of acting on information found in this podcast/youtube video. Support the show

    46 min
  7. Greenworks | Commercial Electric Power Equipment for the Green Industry with Bryan and Erin

    11/18/2025

    Greenworks | Commercial Electric Power Equipment for the Green Industry with Bryan and Erin

    Send us Fan Mail On this episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, host Willie Rodriguez sits down with Bryan Lloyd and Erin Rogers, Territory Sales Managers with Greenworks Commercial, the all-electric leader transforming outdoor power equipment. Bryan, who covers Central Florida and brings over 15 years of experience in the power equipment world, and Erin, who manages South Florida after years in the battery technology space, break down how Greenworks is changing the way landscapers think about performance, efficiency, and sustainability. The conversation dives into: - The benefits of switching to electric — from massive fuel savings to noise reduction in HOA communities. - Battery innovation — including Greenworks’ customizable energy systems, on-site charging caddies, and the revolutionary “Energy Cube.” - Smarter tech and safety — with motors that shut off on impact, ETO ports for charging tools on the go, and robotics that are reshaping how crews work. - The real ROI — see how contractors are saving up to 85% on fuel and paying off their electric mowers in under two years. - The future of the industry — from robotic mowing to smarter labor solutions, and how Greenworks is positioning itself for the next 20 years of innovation. From autonomous mowers to battery-powered UTVs, Greenworks isn’t just making equipment — they’re building a full ecosystem for the next generation of lawn and landscape professionals. Tune in to learn how you can power your business into the future with clean energy, smarter tools, and long-term savings. 🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms. 📲 Follow @ThePlantMovementPodcast and @GreenworksCommercial to stay connected with the movement. Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez  Greenworks Commercial Email: marketing@greenworkstools.com IG: www.instagram.com/greenworkscommercial web: https://www.greenworkscommercial.com/ The Plant Movement Podcast Email: eddie@theplantmovementnetwork.com & willie@theplantmovementnetwork.com Call: (305) 216-5320 Web: https://www.theplantmovement.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/theplantmovementpodcast A's Ornamental Nursery WE GROW | WE SOURCE | WE DELIVER Call: (305) 216-5320 The Nursery Growers Call: 786-522-4942 Plant Logistics Co. (Delivering Landscape Plant Material Throughout the State of Florida) Call: (305) 912-3098 Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast/youtube video are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial, accounting, or legal advice. I can’t promise that the information shared on my posts is appropriate for you or anyone else. By listening to this podcast/youtube video, you agree to hold me harmless from any ramifications, financial or otherwise, that occur to you as a result of acting on information found in this podcast/youtube video. Support the show

    53 min
  8. The Farmers Daughter | How Jacqueline Costa Turned Fashion and Foliage Into a Luxury Garden Lifestyle

    11/04/2025

    The Farmers Daughter | How Jacqueline Costa Turned Fashion and Foliage Into a Luxury Garden Lifestyle

    Send us Fan Mail On this inspiring episode of The Plant Movement Podcast, we sit down with Jacqueline Costa, founder of The Farmer’s Daughter, a luxury garden lifestyle brand redefining what it means to live beautifully, both indoors and out. Jacqueline comes from one of the most respected legacies in the Green Industry, her grandfather was the founder of Costa Farms, one of the largest horticultural growers in the world. Following in those footsteps, she has carved her own unique path, blending her family’s deep horticultural roots with her own background in fashion and design to create something truly original. After earning her degree in Fashion Merchandising from Florida State University, Jacqueline began her career as a buyer for Burdines (now Macy’s). She later joined her father, Mike Costa, at Mike Costa Foliage and Costa Farms, where she managed key accounts such as IKEA—driving millions in plant sales and honing her eye for product design and trend forecasting. Her journey took her across the globe to China, where she lived for over a decade establishing Costa’s buying office, developing planter collections, and raising her two children. When COVID brought her family back to the U.S., Jacqueline channeled her creative passion into launching The Farmer’s Daughter — a brand that fuses fashion, horticulture, and lifestyle into a single elevated experience. Today, The Farmer’s Daughter offers luxury planters, curated garden accessories, and tailored apparel designed for women who live and love the garden life.  In this episode, we explore:  - The Costa family legacy and how it shaped Jacqueline’s entrepreneurial vision.  - How The Farmer’s Daughter is elevating the Green Industry through design, storytelling, and sustainability.  - The lessons learned from living abroad and developing global products.  - The influence of her father’s “hustle and heart” philosophy — and how she’s passing it forward.  - The intersection of fashion, gardening, and modern lifestyle, and what’s next for her expanding brand. Jacqueline’s story is one of heritage, creativity, and evolution — proving that the next generation of growers can innovate while honoring their roots. Whether you’re in horticulture, design, or entrepreneurship, this episode will leave you inspired to grow your own movement. Listen now to Episode 85 of The Plant Movement Podcast, available on all platforms. Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez  The Farmers Daughter Shop: https://thefarmersdaughter1.faire.com Contact: 786-295-4600 Email: jackie@thefarmersdaughtertfd.com IG: www.instagram.com/thefarmersdaughtertfd web: https://thefarmersdaughtertfd.com/ordering-and-delivery/ The Plant Movement Podcast Email: eddie@theplantmovementnetwork.com & willie@theplantmovementnetwork.com Call: (305) 216-5320 Web: https://www.theplantmovement.com Follow Us: IG: https://www.instagram.com/theplantmovementpodcast A's Ornamental Nursery WE GROW | WE SOURCE | WE DELIVER Call: (305) 216-5320 The Nursery Growers Helping Nurseries Grow a Better Product Call: 786-522-4942 Plant Logistics Co. (Delivering Landscape Plant Material Throughout the State of Florida) Call: (305) 912-3098 Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast/youtube video are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute financial, accounting, or legal advice. I can’t promise that the information shared on my posts is appropriate for you or anyone else. By listening to th Support the show

    1h 3m
5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Plant Movement Podcast, the ultimate podcast for entrepreneurs, enthusiasts, and professionals in the ever growing Green Industry. The Plant Movement was founded by Willie Rodriguez and Eddie Gonzalez.  This podcast brings you engaging conversations, expert insights, and actionable strategies to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in your business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, landscaper, garden center or simply passionate about the green industry, this podcast is your go-to resource for inspiration, knowledge, and success stories. LET'S GROW! Directed and Produced by Eddie EVDNT Gonzalez.

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