103. The Power of Vertical Integration & Regenerative Farming with Ladd + Zoey Wahlen

Today’s conversation is with guests Ladd and Zoey Wahlen, the husband-and-wife duo behind Roots Chips!This is the first time we’ve had a couple on the podcast together, and their story is such a great example of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From growing potatoes on their farm in Idaho to launching a regenerative, farmer-owned chip brand, Ladd and Zoey are doing business differently.In this episode, we talk about how they took a big idea (that started as a dream!) and turned it into a thriving consumer product, all while raising four kids, running a farm, and making regenerative agriculture a core part of their mission. We also dive into the behind-the-scenes of building a brand from scratch, navigating the challenges of distribution, hiring a strong team, and the reality of balancing (or not balancing) two full-time businesses.Resources & Links:Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. CoveyHow to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieJoin The Directory Of The WestGet our FREE resource for Writing a Strong Job Description Get our FREE resource for Making the Most of Your InternshipEmail us at [email protected] the Of The West Email List List your jobs on Of The WestConnect with Ladd and Zoey:Follow on Instagram @rootschips Visit the websiteFollow on TikTok @rootschipsConnect with Jessie:Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarvFollow on Facebook @jobsofthewestCheck out the Of The West websiteBe sure to subscribe/follow the show so you never miss an episode! Mentioned in this episode:Raising a champion takes more than feed. It’s work, time, and passion. Purina Equine Feed