Black Soldier Fly Leaders

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Black Soldier Fly Leaders — No BS, Just BSF. Hosted by David Tavernor, this podcast cuts through the noise to reveal how the global BSF industry really works. Hear from the founders, investors, scientists and policymakers driving change. Each episode exposes the realities behind the headlines — from waste conversion to feed innovation — giving a clear view of where the insect economy is heading.

Episodes

  1. FEB 10

    Case Study: Inside The UK Organic Waste Industry - Chris Smits

    This 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Waste Management and Black Soldier Fly 03:03 Elite Recycling Solutions: Company Overview and Clientele 05:47 Driving Value in Food Waste Management 09:08 Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities in Waste Processing 11:52 Cost Dynamics in Waste Disposal 15:07 Anaerobic Digestion vs. Incineration: A Comparative Analysis 17:58 Simpler Recycling Regulations and Their Impact 21:00 The Future of Food Waste Segregation 23:49 Capacity Issues in Anaerobic Digestion 27:07 Black Soldier Fly: A Viable Alternative? 30:03 The Role of Black Soldier Fly in Waste Management 32:57 Market Dynamics and Future Predictions 36:00 Conclusion and Future Directions

    51 min

  2. JAN 27

    Engineering The Best BSF System Designs - Bob Holtermans

    In 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bob Holtermans and His Journey 03:11 Transition from Mushroom Farming to Insect Farming 05:48 Innovative Farming Systems and Technology 08:25 Challenges in the Insect Farming Industry 10:54 Flexibility in Feeding and Production 13:39 Climate Control and Airflow Management 16:24 Challenging Industry Norms and Standards 24:49 Cost Efficiency in Insect Farming 27:40 Building Structures for Insect Farming 28:27 Innovative Systems for Insect Handling 31:57 Operational Costs and Efficiency 35:38 Modularity in Farming Equipment 37:41 Industry Overview and Market Dynamics 42:12 Challenges and Opportunities in the Insect Industry 44:26 Advice for New Entrants in the Industry

    48 min

  3. JAN 13

    A Deep Dive into China's BSF Industry - Ruilong Zheng

    In 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Black Soldier Fly Industry 04:54 Ruilong Zheng's Journey into the Industry 09:48 Experiences at Protix: Insights and Challenges 20:00 Nutritional Aspects of Black Soldier Fly Farming 30:12 The Importance of Industry Collaboration and Conferences 40:48 Challenges in the Chinese Metal Industry 43:42 Competition and Circular Economy in Insect Protein 46:28 Sustainability and Local Production 50:24 Government Support and Waste Management in China 53:28 Key Players in the Chinese BSF Industry 01:00:46 Future Directions and Opportunities in Insect Farming

    1 hr

  4. 11/18/2025

    Revolutionise your breeding input - Dr Yuval Gilad, CEO of FreezeM

    In 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 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Black Soldier Fly Farming 02:41 TheEvolution of the BSF Industry 05:29 Decentralization in Insect Supply Chains 09:33 FreezeM's Innovative Technology 17:37 Specialization and Collaboration in the Industry 21:14 Cost Dynamics in BSF Production 23:58 Genetics and Future of Black Soldier Fly 27:56 Genetic Traits and Insect Development 32:12 Financing Innovations in Insect Farming 35:04 Navigating the Investment Landscape 38:03 Promising Markets for Black Soldier Flies 44:15 Regulatory Changes for Sustainable Practices 48:56 Collaboration and Industry Growth   Keywords Black Soldier Fly, BSF farming, insect protein, sustainable agriculture, FreezeM, breeding technology, supply chain, genetics, funding, regulation

    49 min

  5. 11/07/2025

    Achieving True Circular Economy Black Soldier Fly Production - Tommy Hooft, Co-Founder of Marula Proteen

    In 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 insights, lessons learned from both successful and failed ventures, and the potential for carbon neutrality in the coffee industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marula Protein and Black Soldier Fly Industry 02:45 The Journey of Tommy Hooft and Marula Protein 05:42 Innovative Waste Management with Black Soldier Fly 08:20 The Circular Economy in Coffee Production 10:50 Nutritional Benefits of Frass and Larvae 13:49 Growth Strategy and Expansion Plans 16:34 Financing and Sustainability Challenges 25:09 The Founding Story: Meeting Philip 27:23 Complementary Skills in Business 30:59 The Role of Science and Entomology 36:37 Industry Innovations and Challenges 41:18 Lessons from Industry Successes and Failures

    49 min

  6. 10/31/2025

    Utilising gate fees to scale your Black Soldier Fly Business - Luis Ortiz, CEO of Infinite Harvest Technologies

    In 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. Takeaways Infinite Harvest Technologies focuses on waste upcycling using Black Soldier Flies.The company started as a spin-off from a medicinal cannabis investment.Waste processing is crucial in Ontario due to high landfill emissions.Insect businesses can be categorized into input-focused and output-focused.Specialization is key for success in the insect industry.Collaboration among companies can drive the industry forward.Regulations in Canada are strict but vary by market.Technology should be a tool, not the core of the business.Economic viability depends on managing waste processing costs.Insects can play a significant role in food waste management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Infinite Harvest Technologies 02:16 The Business Model of Waste Upcycling 04:37 The Need for Waste Processing in Ontario 09:19 Understanding Insect Business Models 14:37 Challenges and Opportunities in the Insect Industry 19:10 Future Growth and Market Expansion 21:43 Creative Financing Strategies 26:07 Economic Viability of Insect Production 29:17 Insects as a Tool for Food Waste Management 34:10 Regulatory Landscape in Canada 38:35 Technology and Innovation in the Insect Industry 43:29 Advice for Future Leaders in the Industry

    46 min
  7. Developing niche, value-added markets in BSF

    10/21/2025

    Developing niche, value-added markets in BSF

    In 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 and the future of insect protein, emphasizing the need for a localized approach to farming and the potential for growth in the market. Takeaways • Dean's journey into BSF began with a passion for reducing food waste. • Maltento started by selling whole dried lava to the American market. • The business model focuses on maximizing revenue per wet weight lava. • Utilizing brewery waste helps control feedstock costs and greenhouse gas emissions. • Transitioning to pet food has opened new revenue streams for Maltento. • Palatants are a key product that enhances pet food appeal. • The insect protein market is still developing and requires consumer education. • Collaboration among companies can help grow the insect industry. • The future of insect protein lies in its functional benefits, not just as a protein source. • Local market conditions significantly influence the success of insect farming. Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Black Soldier Flies 03:03 Business Model and Waste Management 05:53 Innovations in Feedstock and Diet 08:48 Expanding into Pet Food and Aquaculture 11:48 Challenges in the Insect Protein Market 14:50 Functional Benefits of Insect Protein 17:47 Market Trends and Consumer Perception 25:15 The Role of Immunity in Health 26:05 Navigating the Funding Landscape 29:47 Balancing Supply and Demand 31:41 Sales Strategies in the Pet Food Market 33:52 Challenges in Shipping and Competition 38:28 Future Plans and Market Expansion 44:50 The Future of the Insect Industry YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsw3EJMmyfAWULh5_ISXRkg⁠

    44 min

  8. 10/21/2025

    Challenges of the insects to pet food industry

    In 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 sustainable practices and innovative product offerings. Takeaways Clayton grew up in a pet store and started a distribution business at 20.He transitioned to working with black soldier flies after exiting his previous business.The pet food industry is a key market for black soldier fly protein due to higher margins.Consumer resistance to insect protein in pet food is a significant barrier.Sustainability is not a primary driver for pet food purchases.Black soldier fly protein is currently priced higher than traditional proteins like chicken and venison.The market for black soldier fly in pet food is becoming saturated.Alternative markets like wild bird food present new opportunities for black soldier fly.A back-to-basics approach is essential for profitability in insect production.The future of black soldier fly relies on innovative product development and market positioning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Clayton Payne 00:38 Clayton's Professional Journey 04:32 The Intersection of Pet Industry and Black Soldier Fly 06:38 Market Saturation and Challenges 12:32 Price Competitiveness of Black Soldier Fly 16:26 Marketing Strategies for Black Soldier Fly 21:13 Current Trends and Future Outlook 25:04 Niche Opportunities in the Market 26:49 Investor Sentiment and Market Challenges 29:25 Black Soldier Fly Production Insights 35:59 Navigating the Wild Bird Feed Market 44:57 Future Prospects for B.O. Buyer YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsw3EJMmyfAWULh5_ISXRkg

    41 min

  9. 10/21/2025

    Is 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 advice for aspiring leaders in the field. Takeaways Andrew Wallace's journey to insect protein began with his experience in various business roles in East Africa. Chanzi's model focuses on using waste as a primary input for insect farming.The company has achieved break-even status, making it a unique player in the insect protein industry.Sustainability and waste management are key components of Chanzi's business model.Andrew emphasizes the importance of adaptability in a nascent industry like insect protein.The partnership with AB InBev highlights the strategic approach to waste management and resource utilization.Chanzi's production costs are significantly lower than competitors, allowing for competitive pricing.The company aims to expand its operations across East Africa, leveraging its unique model.Andrew believes that the insect protein industry will continue to grow and evolve over the next few years.The conversation underscores the importance of understanding unit economics in the insect protein business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chanzi and Andrew Wallace 06:54 Andrew's Journey to Insect Protein 13:52 The Partnership with Sune and Business Model 20:49 Scaling and Financing the Business 24:41 Waste Management and Sustainability Solutions 28:41 Integrating Waste Management Solutions 30:21 The Waste Problem in Africa 30:43 Anaerobic Digestion vs. Insect Protein 37:30 Insect Protein Production and Byproducts 41:36 Profitability in Insect Farming 44:55 Challenges in the Insect Protein Industry 49:05 Open Collaboration in Waste Management 52:52 Global Perspectives on Insect Protein 54:42 Advice for Future Leaders in the Industry YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsw3EJMmyfAWULh5_ISXRkg LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/black-soldier-fly-leaders/about/?viewAsMember=true

    53 min
  • 9 Episodes

About

Black Soldier Fly Leaders — No BS, Just BSF. Hosted by David Tavernor, this podcast cuts through the noise to reveal how the global BSF industry really works. Hear from the founders, investors, scientists and policymakers driving change. Each episode exposes the realities behind the headlines — from waste conversion to feed innovation — giving a clear view of where the insect economy is heading.

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