Leigh Bailey: Owner, Salad Days

In this episode of Ground Up Growth, Paul Hopper and Hannah Pittman sit down with Leigh Bailey, founder of Salad Days, to hear the remarkable story of how a longtime real estate professional made the leap into agriculture and built one of Mississippi’s most innovative local food businesses. From growing up in a real estate development family to launching businesses in publishing, commercial real estate, and eventually hydroponic farming, Leigh shares a career built on reinvention, grit, and entrepreneurial instinct. 

The conversation explores how Salad Days was born—from researching hydroponics, securing land in Flora, and gaining support from local chefs, to creating a business centered around fresh, locally grown produce. Leigh explains why hydroponic farming is becoming increasingly important as food safety, supply chain issues, and sustainable agriculture continue to shape the future of farming. 

They also discuss the parallels between real estate and entrepreneurship, the value of relationships, and what it takes to start over in a completely new industry later in life. If you’re interested in business growth, Mississippi entrepreneurship, agriculture innovation, or hearing how bold pivots can lead to big opportunities, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.