The Thriving Farmer Podcast

307. Navigating Storms and Stewardship: Michael Bobbitt on Cedar Key’s Clam Farming Oct 29, 2024

What are the biggest obstacles clam farmers face in sustaining their operations after severe storms?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Michael Presley Bobbitt, a part-time clam farmer and novelist from Cedar Key, Florida. Alongside his creative career, Michael is dedicated to protecting Cedar Key’s estuary and the local clam farming industry, especially after recent hurricanes caused millions of dollars in losses for Florida clam farmers.

Tune in as Michael shares his journey of balancing a creative career with clam farming, his passion for preserving Cedar Key’s unique ecosystem, and how clam farming supports both the economy and the environment.

Episode Highlights:

Hurricane Impact: How did Hurricane Helene affect Cedar Key and local clam farms? [0:59]
Clam Farming 101: What’s involved in clam farming, and why is Cedar Key ideal for it? [2:30]
Clam Lifecycle: How do clams grow, and what’s unique about their farming process? [5:56]
Challenges in Clam Farming: What threats do climate change and competing states pose? [12:29]
Cedar Key Community: What’s the culture like in this resilient, tight-knit coastal town? [25:20]

Don't miss this episode with Michael Bobbitt as he dives into the unique culture of Cedar Key and his mission to protect fragile estuaries.

About the Guest:

Michael Presley Bobbitt is a novelist, playwright, and part-time clam farmer whose work often spotlights the unique landscapes of Florida. With novels, plays, and environmental advocacy, Michael’s commitment to Cedar Key and its estuary drives his passion for protecting this ecosystem. In his downtime, you’ll find him fishing or caring for his clam beds around Cedar Key, Florida.

Connect with Michael Bobbitt:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

It may feel early, but spring garden planning season is just around the corner! At The Farm on Central, pre-order your favorite varieties now to ensure they’re ready when planting season arrives.

Explore over a dozen new options this year—including willows, elderberries, blackberries, garlic, and turmeric, with even more added daily! Cuttings ship in February, while rooted plants arrive in mid-spring.

Get a jump on your dream garden and secure your spring selections now at shop.FarmonCentral.com.

306. Rebuilding a Community: Alyson Wade on Supporting Farmers After Hurricane Helene Oct 22, 2024

How can a community come together to restore its local food system after a devastating storm?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Alyson Wade of The Farm Connection, a plant nursery and garden center in Marshall, North Carolina. Alyson co-founded WNC Grassroots Media in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which left much of Western North Carolina’s farming community in need of support. Through WNC Grassroots Media, Alyson and her team are working to uplift local farmers and the regional food system through impactful storytelling and humanitarian projects.

Tune in as Alyson discusses the aftermath of the storm, the critical importance of community solidarity, and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the local food system.

Episode Highlights:

Storm Impact: How badly did Marshall, NC get impacted by Hurricane Helene’s rains? [1:16] Toxic Aftermath: What were the impacts of substances other than water? [5:51] Relief Efforts: What is being done to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene? [11:06] Navigating Wreckage: How are people getting around logistically through the wreckage? [16:01] Supporting Recovery: What can listeners do to help support the recovery efforts? [18:40] Community Spirit: What is the community like, and how are they banding together? [23:04]

Don’t miss Alyson’s insights on the power of collaboration and the ongoing needs of the farmers and communities affected by Hurricane Helene.

About the Guest:

Alyson Wade is the CEO and Founder of The Farm Connection, an edible, medicinal, and native plant nursery in Marshall, NC. She co-founded WNC Grassroots Media to restore and uplift the Western North Carolina region after Hurricane Helene. Through her work, Alyson focuses on raising awareness and providing support to farmers and local food systems through impactful media and humanitarian projects.

Connect with The Farm Connection:

Website: The Farm Connection Instagram: @thefarmconnectionmadco Facebook: The Farm Connection LLC

Connect with WNC Grassroots Media: Website: WNC Grassroots Media Instagram: @wncgrassrootsmediaGoFundMe: Support Farmers and Grassroots Food System Organizing in WNC

305. Enhancing Food Security: Emma Jagoz on Moon Valley Farm's Food Hub Oct 15, 2024

How can first-generation farmers successfully build a thriving community-supported agriculture (CSA) program?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Emma Jagoz, founder and owner of Moon Valley Farm in Woodsboro, Maryland. Moon Valley Farm operates on 70 acres, growing specialty and staple vegetables and herbs for a year-round CSA program and restaurants in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

Tune in as Emma shares her inspiring journey from a beginner farmer to the leader of a successful organic farm dedicated to supporting local food systems and schools.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Journey: How did Emma get started in farming? [0:58]
Market Growth: How did the market for Moon Valley’s products grow? [6:48]
Food Hub Development: What was the process of building out the food hub? [16:50]
Production Systems: What is their production system like? [24:49]
Organic Certification: What went into the decision to go certified organic? [28:58]
Future Plans: What is in store for the future of Moon Valley Farm? [35:45]

Don’t miss Emma’s valuable insights on the importance of community connection, team dynamics, and sustainable farming practices.

About the Guest:

Emma Jagoz is a first-generation organic vegetable farmer and food hub owner who started Moon Valley Farm in 2012 on borrowed suburban land while raising two young children. Today, the farm serves a customizable, year-round CSA program, over 100 restaurants, and multiple school districts across Maryland. Emma is also the Organic seat for the Maryland Agriculture Commission and was awarded 'Farmer of the Foodshed' in 2024 by Future Harvest. Her mission focuses on responsible land stewardship and improving regional food security through regenerative agriculture.

Connect with Moon Valley Farm:

Website: Moon Valley FarmInstagram: Follow on InstagramFacebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

304. Noah East on Perennial Farming and Agroforestry Oct 08, 2024

How can farmers balance idealism with practicality when starting a farm from scratch?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Noah East, a farmer, writer, and educator from Wild East Farm in Western North Carolina. Along with his wife, Lyric, Noah has dedicated his efforts to building a farm focused on perennial production, agroforestry, and fostering community food security.

Tune in as Noah shares the challenges and successes of accessing land, establishing their farm, and diversifying their enterprises with a mix of vegetables, broilers, and agroforestry systems.

Important Update: After recording this episode, Noah’s farm was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, causing significant damage. We’re including a GoFundMe link below to support food relief efforts through the Mother Earth Food Hub, an Asheville-based farm-to-home delivery service working with local farmers to provide fresh food to the community in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Roots: What led Noah to farming? [0:59] Land Access: How did Wild East Farm secure its unique lease? [9:29] Blueberry Production: How is the farm managing its blueberries? [15:48] Revenue Streams: Where does Wild East Farm generate income? [20:40] Markets: Where are Wild East’s products sold? [23:37] Vegetable Management: How does the farm handle its vegetable production? [29:59] Advice for New Farmers: How to balance idealism with practicality [34:43]

Don’t miss Noah’s valuable advice for new farmers on designing a sustainable farm and balancing big dreams with real-world demands.

Support Wild East Farm & Local Farmers:

Donate to support hurricane recovery and local food relief efforts: [GoFundMe]

About the Guest: Noah East is a farmer, writer, and educator based at Wild East Farm in Western North Carolina. Passionate about community and the environment, Noah's work is centered on building relationships and fostering resilience through sustainable agriculture. His farm focuses on agroforestry, perennial production, and providing fresh food to local communities.

Connect with Wild East Farm: Website: Wild East Farm Instagram: Follow on Instagram YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

303. J.R. Odom on Navigating New Challenges in Strawberry Farming Oct 01, 2024

How can strawberry growers improve soil health and prevent crop diseases for more sustainable production?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by J.R. Odom, a seasoned strawberry grower from Goldsboro, North Carolina, and the president of the North Carolina Strawberry Association. J.R. has been growing strawberries since 2010 and is committed to improving his farm's soil health using practices such as crop rotation, compost application, and planting summer cover crops. He shares his insights on disease prevention and what’s coming up for the industry.

Tune in to learn more about how J.R. and other growers are innovating to improve strawberry production while safeguarding their crops against emerging threats!

Episode Highlights:

Crop Diseases: What upcoming disease could potentially be damaging to crops? [1:08] Prevention: Recommended methods for disease prevention [6:44] Cutoffs vs. Plugs: What are the differences between these two planting methods? [9:42] Challenges: How dieback on the plugs presents challenges to growers [14:39] Conference: Details on the upcoming NC Strawberry Association conference [20:03]

Resources mentioned in the episode: Takeaw ays for Cutoff Strawberry Plantings from NC State Extension Recommendations for Fall season treatments for Neo-P

About the Guest:

J.R. Odom has been growing strawberries in Goldsboro, NC, since 2010. As president of the North Carolina Strawberry Association, J.R. focuses on improving soil health and crop resilience through innovative farming practices like crop rotation, compost application, and the use of summer cover crops. He is dedicated to supporting strawberry growers across the state and advocating for sustainable farming techniques.

Connect with JR Odom or the NC Strawberry Association:

Website: Odom Farming Company
Strawberry Website: NC Strawberry Association
Instagram: Follow on Instagram

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

302. Anna Withers and Kevin Prather on Cultivating Community Gardens Sep 24, 2024

How can urban farming not only feed a community but also foster connection and education?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Anna Withers and Kevin Prather from Springfield Community Gardens. Together, they dive into the organization’s mission to promote healthy local food access and support aspiring farmers. Learn how Springfield Community Gardens has grown to manage 16 gardens across the city, offering educational programs and farmer incubator opportunities, all while practicing regenerative agriculture and fostering community involvement.

Tune in to discover how urban farming initiatives like Springfield Community Gardens are shaping the future of local food systems and inspiring others to connect with the land!

Episode Highlights:

Beginnings: Anna and Kevin’s journey into farming [1:03]
Mission: What Springfield Community Gardens is all about [4:36]
Education: Focus of their farmer incubator program [13:18]
Season Extension: Tunnels and hoop houses on the farm [18:04]
Land Access: Leasing agreement for state hospital land [20:44]
Soil Health: Fertility programs and resolving lead issues [25:55]
Support: Where SCG’s funding and support come from [30:46]
Youth Program: How SCG engages the next generation [33:51]

About the Guest:

Anna Withers is the Farmer and Resource Development Manager for Springfield Community Gardens. She uses her business degree with a concentration in Nonprofit Management to help farmers grow and expand their businesses, while also teaching youth about their roles in the food system. Anna is a proud consumer of local food and aims to make it easier for everyday people to access farm fresh goods.

After starting as an apprentice at a small farm in Springfield, MO, Kevin Prather has spent the last decade immersed in regenerative ag at multiple farms, teaching what he's learned along the way. He's the founding farmer of Amanda Belle's Hospital Farm, which partners with our city's largest hospital system. Now SCG's farmer educator, he runs the on-site internship program with funding from the EPA environmental justice grant.

Connect with Springfield Community Gardens:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

301. Don Adams on Creative Freeze Drying: Turning Harvests into Value-Added Products Sep 17, 2024

Could mastering freeze drying be the next step in enhancing your farm's profitability and sustainability?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Don Adams who, along with his wife Kathy, produce 80 percent of their own food on their farmstead, Jazzberry Farm in Taft, Tennessee.

They practice permaculture and organic farming, cultivating a variety of crops, raising goats for milk and cheese, and preserving their harvests through freeze-drying.

Don't miss this episode on transforming fresh produce into long-lasting, high-flavor products with the power of freeze drying.

Episode Highlights:

Getting Started: Don’s journey into farming [1:44]
Range of Operations: What Don does on Jazzberry Farm [9:20]
Product Pricing: The price range for Jazzberry’s products [34:43]
Marketing and Sales: Where and how Don markets and sells their products [41:59]
Goats on the Farm: The purpose of goats at Jazzberry [48:58]
Freeze Dryer Tips: More tips from Don on using the freeze dryer [54:17]

About the Guest:

Don is a retired band director/musician who has moved back to the land to feed himself and his community at Jazzberry Farm in Tennessee. He and Kathy produce 70-80 percent of their own food. He discovered freeze drying as a way to preserve his own food and add value to his produce.

Learn More About Don:

Website: Jazzberry Farm
Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

300. Shawn and Beth Dougherty on Building a Self-Sustaining Farm Sep 10, 2024

How can a small farm thrive with minimal off-farm inputs, using only what nature provides to create a sustainable, self-sufficient ecosystem?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Shawn and Beth Dougherty, who have mastered the art of farming by relying on natural systems and resources to sustain their diverse, thriving farm.

Using intensive grazing as their primary source of food energy, Shawn and Beth raise a diverse range of livestock producing most of the food, and feed, on their farm.

Don't miss this episode where they share valuable insights on regenerative farming, adaptive genetics, and making economically sound decisions for long-term sustainability.

Episode Highlights:

Fertility Program: What constitutes the fertility program on the property [1:48]
Pig Feed: What do they feed their pigs? [7:58]
Adaptive Genetics: What they know about adaptive genetics in farm animals [21:04]
Pig Breeds: Which breeds of pigs do better than others? [30:33]
Book Rationale: The rationale behind writing their book [35:46]
Farm Setup: How their farm is currently set up [51:16]
Economic Decisions: How Shawn and Beth make the most economically sound decisions on the farm [1:05:14]
Trades: How all 8 of Shawn and Beth’s children got into their trades [1:26:45]

300th Episode GIVEAWAY!

Enter for a chance to win Shawn and Beth's book, The Independent Farmstead, along with a $100 credit to our store Farm on Central.

About the Guest:

Shawn and Beth Dougherty have been farming together since the 1980’s, and for the last twenty years in eastern Ohio, where their 27-acre home farm was designated by the state as ‘not suitable for agriculture’. Using intensive grazing as the primary source of food energy, they raise dairy and beef cows, sheep, farm-fed hogs, and a variety of poultry, producing most of the food, and feed, on the farm.

Concerned that farming is so often dependent upon multiple off-farm resources, from feed, fuel and fertilizer to water and electricity, their ongoing project is to identify and test the means by which farming was done for centuries with a minimum of off-farm inputs. Their research has led them to identify grass conversion, especially the daily conversion of grass into milk by dairy ruminants, as a key to whole-farm sustainability, combined with the integrated nutrient feed-backs that are possible with a community of diverse animal and plant species, domestic and native. They are the authors of The Independent Farmstead, Chelsea Green Press 2016.

Learn More About Shawn and Beth:

Website: One Cow Revolution
Facebook: Like on Facebook
Their Book: The Independent Farmstead - On Amazon

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

299. Luke Sheldrick on Growing 30+ Organic Veggie Varieties at Terramor Farm Sep 03, 2024

How can no-till farming and a focus on soil health create a successful farm that serves top restaurants and local markets?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Luke Sheldrick, Owner of Terramor Farm in Burnstown, Ontario. With a background in the restaurant industry, Luke and his partner Dana Moores have combined their passion for high-quality food and sustainable farming to create a thriving farm that serves top restaurants, markets, and a growing CSA program in the Ottawa Valley.

Don’t miss this episode to hear how Luke and Dana use no-till methods, natural amendments, and maintain their focus on soil health to produce 30+ varieties of delicious, nutrient-rich vegetables.

Episode Highlights:

Beginnings: How Luke started his journey in farming [1:18]
Property Search: Key characteristics Luke sought in a property [6:44]
Season Extension: Tunnels used at Terramor [19:18]
Greenhouse Management: Watering schedule managed by Orisha [30:09]
Sales and Distribution: How Terramor sells and delivers its products [35:28]
Team Building: Finding and retaining good help [40:46]
Weekly Routine: A typical week on the farm [45:09]
Future Vision: Luke’s plans for the farm's future [50:39]

About the Guest:

Luke Sheldrick is the Owner of Terramor Farm. With a rich background in the restaurant industry, Luke and his partner Dana Moores have blended their passion for high quality food and entrepreneurship with sustainable farming practices to create a thriving farming business.

Their journey began working within some of the finest restaurants in Ottawa, where they developed a deep appreciation for the relationship between sustainable food and dining culture. This background fuels the innovative approach at Terramor Farm, located in Burnstown, ON where they cultivate a diverse range of high quality vegetables and cut-flowers sold directly to consumers.

As an engaging speaker, Luke shares his experiences of starting a profitable small scale farm that has grown quickly through expanding sales avenues, developing systems and building a strong farm team.

Learn More About Luke and Terramor Farm:

Website: Terramor Farm
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Do you have more tasks on your farm than you have time? Stop interruptions and focus on what matters most. Delegate repetitive duties in your tunnel to Orisha. Sleep better, knowing that they’ll call you if anything goes wrong in your greenhouse.

Be sure to check out their ebook with helpful tips to reduce your workload and simplify your days on the farm. Download the ebook here.

Learn more about Orisha, including their popular leasing options with no upfront costs on orisha.io

298. Erika Tebbens on Email Marketing Strategy for Small Farms Aug 27, 2024

How can you use email to build customer relationships and get more sales as a small farmer?

In today’s episode, Erika Tebbens returns to the show to talk to us about email marketing. Erika is passionate about relationship-driven, connection-centered sales and marketing practices; and loves being a catalyst for micro enterprises to thrive. She has been running & supporting businesses of all kinds and sizes for 20 years now, from solo-operations to multimillion-dollar companies with teams. Over those two decades she has served hundreds of clients, helping them develop business strategies in alignment with their values. Today you’ll learn how Erika tackles email marketing for farm businesses!

FREE DOWNLOAD:"4 Ways to Gain Email Subscribers and Grow Your Audience"

Episode Highlights:

Strategy: Why would farmers want to do email marketing? [3:28]
Starting Out: How would you go about getting folks on your email marketing list? [8:39]
Choosing Platforms: What platforms does Erika use for hosting emails? [16:18]
Frequency: How should you approach email scheduling? [19:53]
Writing: How can you craft compelling content for your emails? [30:21]
Outcome: How can you construct a clear CTA? [38:22]

About the Guest:

Erika Tebbens is the Director of Impact at Taste the Local Difference. Taste the Local Difference is a woman-owned and woman-led local food marketing agency for purpose-driven food and farm businesses.

While businesses can hire Taste the Local Difference directly, one thing that sets them apart are their Impact Partnerships, which Erika oversees. By partnering with economic development agencies, nonprofits, schools, health departments, farmers markets, food-system support organizations, state agencies, federal programs, and more across the U.S., they help expand the impact local food can have both for producers and consumers. Before joining TLD, Erika spent a decade working with entrepreneurs on their sales and growth strategy, and she used to have a very small farm and apiary in upstate New York.

Learn More About Taste the Local Difference:

Website: localfoodmarketing.com

Instagram: @localfoodmarketing

Facebook: @localdifference

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Do you have more tasks on your farm than you have time? Stop interruptions and focus on what matters most. Delegate repetitive duties in your tunnel to Orisha. Sleep better, knowing that they’ll call you if anything goes wrong in your greenhouse.

Be sure to check out their ebook with helpful tips to reduce your workload and simplify your days on the farm. Download the ebook here.

Learn more about Orisha, including their popular leasing options with no upfront costs on orisha.io

Join the upcoming event:

This year's Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day, organized by Sam Tilton, is September 11th in Lafayette Indiana at Purdue University! Listen to the episode for more details. This is THE event to see weeding tools and machinery for farms of all sizes for vegetables and row crops (hand tools, two-wheel tractors, up to camera-guided row crop cultivators). The event includes a trade show, educational sessions, and field demonstrations.

Click here to register!

297. Lisa Johnston on Market Garden & Orchard Care in Alpine New Zealand Aug 20, 2024

How does a family farm in alpine New Zealand use a diverse range of income streams to thrive?

On this episode we’re joined by Lisa Johnston, operator of Frog Song Farm, located in Wanaka, New Zealand. Lisa is a farmer who wears many hats, juggling both an organic market garden and orchard pruning business. She also roasts and sells chestnuts at events and markets through her side business Village Nuts.

Frog Song Farm’s mission is one of regeneration and revegetation. For years Lisa and her family have studied and explored natural farming, permaculture, terraquaculture and traditional farming of the Asia Pacific. They are convinced that the farming systems of New Zealand need to undergo a paradigm shift from farming dehydrated grassed landscapes to farming diverse polycultures in hydrated, treed landscapes. From industrial farming to artisan farming. Growing better, not bigger.

As the farm emerges from this phase of intensive development, Frog Song is looking forward to welcoming more people to the land, as WWOOFers, interns, guests and visitors. Because, ultimately, it's all about the people and creating great things together. Take a vicarious tour of farming in New Zealand on this episode!

Episode Highlights:

Alpine Farming: What is farming in Wanaka, New Zealand like? [2:40]
Diversifying Income: How is the space on the farm split into their enterprises? [6:00]
Orchard Care: What is Frog Song doing with orchards? [11:25]
Veggie Crops: What does Frog Song’s season look like for the market garden? [29:14]
Economic Challenges: What have been the biggest challenges running a market garden in New Zealand? [34:36]
Sustainability Challenges: What is the New Zealander’s chemical bias? [38:18]
Building a Team: How is the Frog Song team managed? [45:26]
Takeaways: What is Lisa’s advice for someone looking to get started in market farming? [49:39]

About the Guest:

Lisa, her partner Greg and daughter Awa are the family behind Frog Song Farm, a 20-acre farm near the alpine township of Wanaka, New Zealand. The farm has an organic artisan market garden serving veggies and herbs to local restaurants and specialty shops, and has young orchards, nut groves, woodlots, and an apiary under development. The family also runs a successful side hustle harvesting, and selling roasted chestnuts, walnuts and hazelnuts as Village Nuts. The couple has honed their entrepreneurial and horticultural skills over the years, providing professional services in orchard care (pruning), landscaping, and compost toilet education. The family's mission is to change the farming paradigm in their community by creating a living example of regenerative rural livelihood.

Connect Online!

Website: https://www.frogsongfarm.co.nz/

Facebook: @frongsongfarmnz

Instagram: @frongsongfarmer

Village Nuts:

Facebook: @VillageNuts

Instagram: @villagenutslisa

Join the upcoming event:

This year's Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day, organized by Sam Tilton, is September 11th in Lafayette Indiana at Purdue University! Listen to the episode for more details. This is THE event to see weeding tools and machinery for farms of all sizes for vegetables and row crops (hand tools, two-wheel tractors, up to camera-guided row crop cultivators). The event includes a trade show, educational sessions, and field demonstrations.

Click here to register!

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Do you have more tasks on your farm than you have time? Stop interruptions and focus on what matters most. Delegate repetitive duties in your tunnel to Orisha. Sleep better, knowing that they’ll call you if anything goes wrong in your greenhouse.

Be sure to check out their ebook with helpful tips to reduce your workload and simplify your days on the farm. Download the ebook here.

Learn more about Orisha, including their popular leasing options with no upfront costs on orisha.io

296. Sam Tilton on Growing Strong, High-Yield Greenhouse Transplants Aug 13, 2024

What goes into cultivating healthy, high-yield transplants that take off instead of struggling when transferred to the field?

Find out from Sam Tilton, the organizer of the annual Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day. After earning his Master’s degree in Horticulture from Michigan State, Sam has worked many roles in vegetable farming from tool development to teaching on sustainable horticulture. Earlier in the year, he joined the Growing Farmers 2024 Vegetable Summit as one of our guest speakers on weed control.

Tune in to hear why Sam recommends transplants over direct seeding, and what methods he uses to ensure that transplants are healthy and strong before moving to the field.

Episode Highlights:

Why Transplants?: What are transplants and why would a farmer want them over direct seeding? [3:39]
Scheduling: What should a transplant schedule look like? [9:54]
Seed Preservation: How are seeds handled in the process? [13:08]
Germ Testing: Does Sam do any individual germ testing? [16:36]
Seed Mix: What is Sam’s advice for seed starting mix? [18:29]
Trays: What does Sam use to contain the seeds? [26:31]
Germination: What is Sam’s approach to germination conditions? [32:39]
Airflow: What is the importance of airflow and how can you optimize it? [41:38]
Field Prep: What are Sam’s thoughts on field prep and transplanting techniques? [55:57]

Join the upcoming event:

This year's Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day, organized by Sam Tilton, is September 11th in Lafayette Indiana at Purdue University! Listen to the episode for more details. This is THE event to see weeding tools and machinery for farms of all sizes for vegetables and row crops (hand tools, two-wheel tractors, up to camera-guided row crop cultivators). The event includes a trade show, educational sessions, and field demonstrations.

Click here to register!

About the Guest:

Sam Oschwald Tilton helps farmers improve their weed management and works with technical support groups to give hands-on trainings and develop educational resources, through his business Glacial Drift Enterprises. Sam lives in Minneapolis and enjoys gardening with the neighborhood. If you want to talk to Sam about farm systems, please email him - glacialdrift@protonmail.com.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Do you have more tasks on your farm than you have time? Stop interruptions and focus on what matters most. Delegate repetitive duties in your tunnel to Orisha. Sleep better, knowing that they’ll call you if anything goes wrong in your greenhouse.

Be sure to check out their ebook with helpful tips to reduce your workload and simplify your days on the farm. Download the ebook here.

Learn more about Orisha, including their popular leasing options with no upfront costs on orisha.io

295. Mike Garcia on Sustainable Farming in the Heart (& Heat) of Florida Aug 06, 2024

How can a small farm near downtown Orlando implement bio-intensive and regenerative practices to thrive year-round?

Find out in this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Mike Garcia of Everoak Farm in Orlando, FL. Together with his wife Nikki, Mike runs a small, bio-intensive, and regenerative family farm where they grow Certified Naturally Grown fruits and vegetables, raise pastured poultry, and maintain a thriving apiary.

Tune in to hear Mike Garcia's insights on creating a diverse and sustainable agroecology at Ever Oak Farm in the heart of central Florida.

Episode Highlights:

Agroforestry: Types of plants grown at Everoak [3:22]
Composting: How compost is made at Everoak [12:59]
Application: Spraying compost methods [16:26]
Market Garden: Crops grown in the market garden [18:05]
Pest Management: Strategies for keeping insects at bay [26:30]
Succession Planning: Winter planning techniques [27:59]
Farm Interest: Methods to bring interest to the farm [36:01]

Don't miss this episode on how Mike Garcia transforms a small urban farm into a thriving, sustainable oasis in central Florida.

About the Guest:

Mike Garcia, owner/operator of Everoak Farm in Orlando, is a self-taught first-generation farmer with a deep-rooted passion for sustainable agriculture and regenerative farming practices. After a career in the culinary world, Mike transitioned from the kitchen to the fields, driven by a desire to reconnect with the land and foster a more sustainable food system. Embracing a holistic approach rooted in agroecology, he integrates bio-intensive market gardening, agroforestry, pasture poultry, and composting to cultivate healthy, nutrient-rich soil and promote biodiversity on his farm.

Connect with Mike:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor, Orisha!

Do you have more tasks on your farm than you have time? Stop interruptions and focus on what matters most. Delegate repetitive duties in your tunnel to Orisha. Sleep better, knowing that they’ll call you if anything goes wrong in your greenhouse.

Be sure to check out their ebook with helpful tips to reduce your workload and simplify your days on the farm. Download the ebook here.

Learn more about Orisha, including their popular leasing options with no upfront costs on orisha.io

294. Kat Ragone and Kolin Buzerak on Building Community through Small-Scale Farming Jul 30, 2024

How can small-scale farmers balance sustainability and profitability while building strong community connections?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Kat and Kolin who own and operate Starry Ridge Farm, a regenerative hillside farm in Northern New York. In addition to producing vegetables, flowers, maple syrup, and pastured livestock, they are dedicated to building community through events and their soon-to-open farm store.

Tune in to hear how Kat and Kolin run their farm business together while creating a local culture and community around organic farming and food.

Episode Highlights:

Development: How Starry Ridge Farms started [1:41]
Division of Labor: How are responsibilities divided out [3:55]
Tunnel Size: Season Extension and Farm Store Construction [15:45]
Customer Demographics: Customer Base and Marketing [21:03]
Soil Health Improvement: Low-Till and No-Till Methods [26:04]
Future Plans: Expansion and Increasing Community Involvement [29:19]

Don't miss this episode to hear Kat and Kolin share their journey of building Starry Ridge Farm, their innovative farming practices, and their vision for creating a vibrant, sustainable community through small-scale agriculture.

About the Guest:

Kat & Kolin own and operate Starry Ridge Farm, a diversified regenerative hillside farm in Northern NY focusing on vegetables, flowers, maple syrup, and pastured livestock including cows, pigs, sheep & laying hens. Their farm is located on 125 acres, and they grow on 1 1/4 acres with 45ft 30” permanent beds which they have terraced out of the hillside.

Kat & Kolin are in their 5th growing season and primarily sell to their CSA, farmers market, local restaurants, online retail orders, and are working on renovating an old barn for a farm store. They have a very tight knit wonderful CSA community and are so excited to bring more people together with their new farm store.

Connect with Kat and Kolin:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers!

Are you tired of guessing how to price your farm-fresh vegetables? Stop second-guessing and start maximizing your profits with our Vegetable Pricing Guide and Calculator.

Whether you sell at farmers markets, a farm store, or anywhere else, our resources and tutorials will help you set prices based on your production costs and desired profit margins.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your pricing strategy. Join countless farmers who’ve transformed their pricing game with the Vegetable Pricing Guide.

Visit us now at growingfarmers.com/veggieguide and take control of your profitability!

293. Shawn Patrick House on the History and Potential of Hemp Jul 23, 2024

Why has hemp, with its vast potential and numerous sustainable uses, faced so many challenges and misconceptions?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Shawn Patrick House, CEO of Lancaster Trading House and creator of Hempzels, the original hemp pretzel. With over 30 years in the hemp industry, Shawn has pioneered innovative hemp products, from pretzels to dairy-free ice cream, and is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and industrial hemp.

Tune in to hear about Shawn Patrick House's journey in the hemp industry.

Episode Highlights:

Introductions: Why Hemp? [0:54]
Full Potential: The History of Hemp [2:56]
Multi-use: Different Types of Hemp and Their Uses [8:01]
Road Blocks: Challenges Faced in the Hemp Industry [11:48]
Polyculture: Hemp as a Rotation Crop [28:18]
Sustainability: The Versatility of Hemp as a Sustainable Resource [34:23]
Products and Distribution: How to find Lancaster products [43:42]

Don't miss this episode on the exciting developments in the hemp industry and the future of hemp-based products with Shawn Patrick House.

About the Guest:

Shawn Patrick House is an old school hempentrepreneur and might be the Forest Gump of hemp. A political activist who ran for Congress in 2016, he's been advocating for true cannabis hemp almost half of his life. He has survived the government hemp food ban from 2000-2004 and he has quite an interesting story and angle when it comes to the future of hemp.

Connect with Shawn:

Website: Hempzels
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers!

Are you tired of guessing how to price your farm-fresh vegetables? Stop second-guessing and start maximizing your profits with our Vegetable Pricing Guide and Calculator.

Whether you sell at farmers markets, a farm store, or anywhere else, our resources and tutorials will help you set prices based on your production costs and desired profit margins.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your pricing strategy. Join countless farmers who’ve transformed their pricing game with the Vegetable Pricing Guide.

Visit us now at growingfarmers.com/veggieguide and take control of your profitability!

292. Garrett Miller on Apple Farming and Diversifying Your Farm Business Jul 16, 2024

How can diversifying a farm business lead to greater resilience and sustainability?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Garrett Miller who is the owner behind Finger Lakes Cider House at Good Life Farm. Garrett is dedicated to organic practices, offering visitors artisan ciders, locally-sourced meals, and u-pick experiences in a vibrant, musical setting amidst New York’s beautiful apple country.

Tune in to hear Garrett share his journey in organic apple farming, the challenges he faces, and how he diversifies his farm business to create a thriving community hub.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Beginnings: How Garrett got started in farming [2:48]
Toughest Tasks: Starting with Bare Land and Building Infrastructure [12:17]
Team Selection: Onboarding and Managing Employees [29:18]
Funding Methods: Financing and Borrowing for Farm Projects [35:05]
Visitor Numbers: Managing Visitor Traffic and Seasonal Variations [37:13]
Advice for Aspiring Farmers: Garrett’s advice for starting a small farm [49:22]

Don't miss this episode on the successes and challenges of apple cider farming with Garrett Miller, as he shares valuable insights into organic practices and building a diverse farm business!

About the Guest:

Garrett Miller is the owner and operator of the Good Life Farm and Finger Lakes Cider House in New York. He describes the farm and cider house as the sum total of his life’s work. He started the farm at 22 without much of a plan, with less experience than was responsible and basically no money. These initial challenges turned out to be some of their greatest strengths. With any luck, he hopes to leave this piece of land a little better than when he found it.

Connect with Garrett:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers!

Are you tired of guessing how to price your farm-fresh vegetables? Stop second-guessing and start maximizing your profits with our Vegetable Pricing Guide and Calculator.

Whether you sell at farmers markets, a farm store, or anywhere else, our resources and tutorials will help you set prices based on your production costs and desired profit margins.

Don’t let uncertainty dictate your pricing strategy. Join countless farmers who’ve transformed their pricing game with the Vegetable Pricing Guide.

Visit us now at growingfarmers.com/veggieguide and take control of your profitability!

291. Lucy Brenton on Political Advocacy and Homesteading Success Jul 09, 2024

How can homesteading and food sovereignty reshape our approach to personal and community resilience?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Lucy Brenton who is an activist dedicated to promoting freedom over our bodies and the food we eat. After running twice for the US Senate in Indiana, Lucy is now transforming 6 acres into a self-sufficient homestead and building a community of like-minded homesteaders focused on independence and sustainability.

Tune in to learn how Lucy Brenton combines homesteading and political advocacy to promote personal freedom and sustainability.

Episode Highlights:

Homesteading Movement: How Lucy got into the homesteading movement [0:57]
Political Aspect: What got Lucy into the political aspect of food [4:45]
Private Land Contracts: How a private land contract operates [9:10]
Land Search: What Lucy was looking for in terms of land [15:47]
Homestead Network: What is the Homestead Network [30:05]

Don't miss this episode where Lucy Brenton shares her journey into homesteading and political advocacy for food and body freedom.

About the Guest:

Lucy Brenton is an activist working for freedom in the areas it matters most... over our own bodies and the food we eat. Lucy ran for US Senate in 2016 and 2018, campaigning for medical and agricultural freedom, advocating for the right to grow and use hemp and cannabis products on the individual level. She moved her family from the 'burbs to the country and is transforming 6 acres into a self supporting homestead. Currently she is growing and selling edible, medicinal and culinary plants, building a community of homesteaders that want to be self-sufficient and independent of the system.

Connect with Lucy Brenton:

Lucy’s Website: Lucy Brenton
Homestead Network: Homestead Network
LinkedIn: Follow Lucy

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers!

Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop.

Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation.

This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return.

The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

290. Gabe Madison on Cultivating Hope through Community Engagement Jul 02, 2024

How can engaging the community through farming transform lives?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Gabe Madison who is the President of Bonton Farms, a transformative urban farm in South Dallas. Gabe provides strategic oversight for the farm's expanding operations and community programs, leveraging over two decades of corporate leadership experience to disrupt inequitable systems and foster community growth. Tune in to hear how Gabe Madison leverages her corporate leadership experience to guide Bonton Farms' transformative urban farming initiatives and community programs in South Dallas.

Episode Highlights:

Corporate Background: Gabe’s role before joining Bonton Farms [1:09]
Farm Overview: What Bonton Farms does [5:03]
The “Barndominium”: Its purpose and use [9:56]
Recent Changes: Updates on the farm since Gabe's arrival [13:17]
Staff Size: How big the Bonton Farms staff is [22:55]
Apprenticeships: How apprenticeships work at Bonton Farms [27:00]
Farmer’s Market: What’s happening with Bonton Farms’ farmer’s market [34:20]

Don’t miss this episode on the transformative power of community engagement through farming!

About the Guest:

Gabe Madison is the President of Bonton Farms, a South Dallas farm and community resource dedicated to disrupting inequitable systems. With over two decades of corporate leadership experience, Gabe provides strategic oversight to the farm's expanding operations and community initiatives. Prior to this role, she served as Director of Community Relations and HR Manager at Thomson Reuters. Gabe graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, and currently lives in Frisco with her wonderful family.

Connect with Bonton Farms:

Website: Bonton Farms
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers!

Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop.

Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation.

This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return.

The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

289. Julie Rawson on Mulching, Medicinal Plants, and No-Till Techniques Jun 25, 2024

What advice would a seasoned farmer give to those aspiring to start their own farm?

Find out in this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast where Michael is joined by Julie Rawson who is co-owner of Many Hands Organic Farm in Barre, Massachusetts. After growing up on a conventional farm in Illinois, Julie, along with her husband Jack, transitioned to organic farming in 1982, where she has become a pioneer in soil fertility and carbon sequestration.

Tune in to hear Julie Rawson's journey from conventional to organic farming and her insights on sustainable practices.

Episode Highlights:

Conventional Farming: Julie’s journey from conventional to organic [1:04]
Farm Goals: Julie’s objectives with her Massachusetts farm [4:28]
Orchard Details: More about her farm's orchards [13:14]
Tree Mulching: Learn about how Julie mulches her fruit trees [20:44]
Medicinal Plants: Hear about the medicinal plants Julie grows [25:29]
Tomato Varieties: Julie’s favorite tomatoes [30:20]
Educational Offerings: The types of education offered at Julie's farm [45:26]
Advice for New Farmers: Julie’s advice for newer farmers [50:39]

Don't miss this episode about the journey from conventional to organic farming, where Julie Rawson shares her insights on soil fertility, carbon sequestration, and sustainable farming practices.

About the Guest:

Julie has been farming at Many Hands Organic Farm since 1982 with her husband, Jack, her kids, many employees, apprentices, volunteers and working shareholders over the years. Their farm is certified organic, no-till, run a CSA since 1992, and also raises chicken, turkey and pork.

Connect with Julie’s Farm:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers!

Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop.

Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation.

This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return.

The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

288. Melissa K. Norris on Modern Homestead Living Jun 18, 2024

Has the homesteading movement finally peaked?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael explores this question and more with Melissa K. Norris who is a fifth-generation homesteader, author and educator in Washington state. Melissa inspires and guides thousands of fellow homesteaders through her website, podcast, and books on creating a self-sustaining home and kitchen to help further preserve the old ways of farm-to-table living.

Tune in to hear about the transformational power of sustainable living and the value of a supportive homesteading community.

Episode Highlights:

Five Generations: More on Melissa’s family history in homesteading [1:05]
Health Challenges: The Impact of Food Choices on Health and Holistic Living [7:59]
Sharing with Others: About Melissa’s journey to educating others [15:21]
Homestead Living: Learn about the magazine Melissa co-founded [17:45]
Community Sufficiency: Melissa’s take on the importance of community [21:14]
Spousal Support: Getting the Spouse on Board with Homesteading [32:38]
Inspiring Others: Melissa’s advice to a new or aspiring homesteaders [42:16]

About the Guest:

Melissa K. Norris helps hundreds of thousands of people each month raise their own food and create a homemade and homegrown kitchen, home, garden and barnyard through her website, popular Pioneering Today Podcast, the Pioneering Today Academy and her books. She is a co-founder of the Modern Homesteading Conference as well as owner of Norris Farmstead.

Melissa is a 5th generation homesteader and lives with her husband and two kids in their own little house in the big woods in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains.

Connect with Melissa:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers!

Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop.

Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation.

This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return.

The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

287. Olivia Schoentrup on Farming Journeys and Innovations Jun 12, 2024

Why is it important to share the stories of small-scale farmers?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Olivia Schoentrup, a sixth-generation farmer who has transitioned from traditional farming to RV living and farm touring. Olivia shares her unique journey, shedding light on the challenges of scaling up a small farm and the critical importance of sharing the stories of small farmers.

Tune in to learn more about Olivia's transformative journey and the innovative practices shaping the future of farming.

Episode Highlights:

Olivia’s Farming Journey: How Olivia’s farming endeavors came to be [1:02]
Market Insights: What were the markets for Schoentrup Farms [7:14]
Influential Farmers: Learn about some innovative farmers [15:46]
Farm Visits: Hear about the smaller farms that Olivia has visited [20:21]
Lessons Learned: Hear about what Olivia has learned through her journeys [27:21]
Connect with Olivia: Follow Olivia on their travels [31:21]

About the Guest:

Olivia Schoentrup is a 6th generation farmer from Indiana. She and her husband, Paul, farmed together on 5 acres raising beef, pork, and chicken to sell directly to consumers. After farming for 6 years, they sold everything, moved into a 5th wheel camper, and are now traveling the country visiting small farms and homesteads to share their story on our YouTube Channel, Breaking New Roots.

Connect with Breaking New Roots:

Instagram: Follow on Instagram Facebook: Like on Facebook YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube

Don't miss this episode on Olivia’s experiences and perspectives on modern agricultural practices and the evolving landscape of small-scale farming across the US.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers!

Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop.

Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation.

This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return.

The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

286. Melanie Cunningham on the Power of Oxen in Farming Jun 04, 2024

Have you ever wondered how traditional oxen power can transform modern farming?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Melanie Cunningham of Shakefork Community Farm in Northern California. Along with her husband, Kevin, they grow a variety of vegetables, strawberries, and pasture-raised livestock using permanent raised beds, low-till methods, and draft oxen power.

Tune in to hear about this oxen-powered and diversified regenerative market & CSA farm!

Episode Highlights:

Melanie's Farming Journey: Hear how Melanie found her passion for farming [1:36]
Shakefork Farm: How they run the farm [8:22]
Draft oxen power: Learn more about how they incorporated oxen [11:04]
No-till: More about their bed preparation process [15:04]
Sales Outlets: Some of the places that Shakefork markets their products [23:17]
Strawberry Success: Learn more about their growing strawberry process [27:30]
Tips for New Farmers: Hear Melanie’s advice for new farmers [35:47]
Tool Time: Melanie’s favorite tool on the farm [36:37]

About the Guest:

Melanie Cunningham farms 85 acres in the Van Duzen River floodplain in far Northern California with her husband, Kevin, 10 year old son, Clyde and a crew of committed farmhands. Shakefork Community Farm is a highly diversified CSA and market garden AND pasture based operation, growing a variety of vegetables and strawberries, pasture raised eggs, chicken and turkey, grass-fed beef and a home dairy.

Melanie moved to Humboldt County in 2004 to learn to farm, and within a week landed her first farm job. Shakefork was launched in 2008 and has become an anchor of their thriving rural farming community.

Connect with Shakefork Community Farm:

Don't miss this episode on the innovative practices and inspiring journey of Melanie Cunningham and Shakefork Community Farm, from using draft oxen power to achieving strawberry success.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

285. Ray Tyler on Balancing Family and Farm Life May 28, 2024

How do you successfully balance family and farm life?

Find out in this episode of the podcast with Ray Tyler! Ray has previously been on the podcast and he also participated in our Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit this past January. Ray is an inspiring figure in the world of sustainable agriculture and is a dedicated family man, self-made farmer, and innovative educator at Rose Creek Farms.

Tune in to learn how to balance farming with family life and make a meaningful impact.

Episode Highlights:

All about Ray: Ray Tyler's start into farming [1:13]
Essential elements: Basic principles to apply on your farm [6:27]
It’s All in the Family: Practical Applications and Family Integration on the Farm [23:26]
Sustainability: Transitioning to a Sustainable Farming Lifestyle [32:03]
Q&A: Implementing Family-Friendly Farming Practices [36:59]

About the Guest:

Ray Tyler, along with his wife Ashley, embarked on a farming journey fueled by passion and determination. Despite starting with zero savings and facing numerous challenges, including navigating stringent regulations and their daughter's battle with cancer, they persevered. By transitioning to focus solely on produce and refining their farming practices, they tripled their income while working fewer hours.

Today, they operate a successful, near weed-free farm with year-round production, emphasizing quality and sustainability. Ray's story underscores the transformative power of resilience, innovation, and prioritizing what truly matters in life: love, family, and contentment.

Connect with Rose Creek Farm:

Don't miss this episode on the importance of disconnecting farm problems from family life, engaging children without forcing them to work, and still increasing farm profitability.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

284. Jim Sander on Community-Centered Nonprofit Farming May 21, 2024

How can shifting from profit-driven farming to a nonprofit model enhance food production and community well-being?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Jim Sander of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina. After a successful career selling to local markets and CSAs, Jim shifted his farm’s focus to growing produce exclusively for local food relief groups using regenerative techniques, increasing both food production and personal fulfillment.

Tune in to hear how Jim has transformed his passion for farming into a powerful force for community good.

Episode Highlights:

Jim's Farming Journey: Discover how Jim’s farming journey began. [1:40]
Challenging Beginnings: Hear about Jim’s first year of growing. [4:11]
Evolution of Wildflower Lane: Learn how his farm evolved into what it is today. [9:02]
Crop Planning Challenges: Discover the difficulties of crop planning at Wildflower Lane. [23:02]
Soil Fertility Program: Understand how the soil fertility program works. [24:38] Starting a Nonprofit Model Farm: Get Jim’s advice for starting a nonprofit model farm operation. [29:33] Advice for Aspiring Farmers: Hear Jim’s advice for those looking to get into farming. [35:24] Favorite Farming Tool: Find out what Jim’s favorite farming tool is. [38:15]

About the Guest:

Jim began farming at Wildflower Lane Farm in 2010 after attending an introductory farming course at the Breeze Farm in Hillsborough. After successfully farming there for a year, Jim converted 3/4 acre of pasture land at his 24 acre farm into a small organic farm.

For the first 7 years, Jim grew organically-certified produce and sold it to local markets, including Whole Foods, Weaver Street Market, Eastern Carolina Organics and numerous restaurants and CSA's.

At the end of year 7, Jim decided to partner with Table to feed local kids who are food insecure. Jim now volunteers 20 hours each week supervising Table volunteers and couldn’t be more fulfilled doing just what he loves, farming and providing fresh produce to locals.

Connect with Wildflower Lane Farm:

Website: Visit Wildflower Lane Farm

Don't miss this episode on how Jim Sander's innovative approach is transforming farming and making a significant impact on local food relief efforts.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

283. Will Harris on the Shift from Industrial to Zero-Waste Regenerative Farming May 14, 2024

How can a zero-waste ecosystem benefit both the environment and the local community?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Will Harris, a fourth-generation farmer and the owner of White Oak Pastures. His regenerative farm maintains a zero-waste ecosystem that supports 10 species of animals and produces everything from high-quality meats to organic fertilizers, demonstrating their commitment to land, livestock, and community. Tune in to hear about Will’s journey from an industrial cattle operation to a zero-waste regenerative farm.

Episode Highlights:

Will's Farming Journey: Discover how Will’s farming journey began. [2:56]
Joining Whole Foods: Explore how Will began his journey with Whole Foods. [6:56]
On-Farm Processing: Discover the premise behind White Oak Pastures' on-farm processing [11:24]
Their Commitment: Learn how White Oak Pastures implements its zero-waste policy. [21:01]
The White Oak Team: Get insights into the size and structure of the White Oak team. [30:01]
A Bold Return to Giving a Damn: Understand what inspired Will to write his book. [37:40]
The Joe Rogan Experience: Explore how Will ended up on the Joe Rogan podcast. [39:12]
Future of White Oak: Discover Will's vision for the future of White Oak Pastures. [44:36]

About the Guest:

Will Harris is a fourth-generation cattleman, who tends the same land that his great-grandfather settled in 1866. Born and raised at White Oak Pastures, Will left home to attend the University of Georgia's School of Agriculture, where he was trained in the industrial farming methods that had taken hold after World War II. Will graduated in 1976 and returned to Bluffton where he and his father continued to raise cattle using pesticides, herbicides, hormones, and antibiotics. In 1995, Will made the audacious decision to return to the farming methods his great-grandfather had used 130 years before.

Since Will has successfully implemented these changes, he has been recognized all over the world as a leader in humane animal husbandry and environmental sustainability.

Connect with White Oak Pastures:

Website: Visit White Oak Pastures
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook
Will's Book: A Bold Return to Giving a Damn

Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion about the amazing transformation of White Oak Pastures!

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

282. Ari Memar on Saving Time and Increasing Revenue with Farmhand May 07, 2024

What could you achieve with an extra 10 hours each week on your farm?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Ari Memar, the founder and CEO of Farmhand. Ari combines his tech expertise with a passion for sustainable agriculture to help local farmers boost their profits and cut down their workload, all through innovative technology.

Tune in to discover how this unique service can help you save time and money!

Episode Highlights:

Ari's Farming Journey: Discover how Ari transitioned from tech enthusiast to farming innovator. [1:41]
Exploring Farmhand: Learn how Farmhand supports farmers and enhances agricultural practices. [5:53]
Farmhand in Action: Hear how farmers use Farmhand to streamline their operations and boost business. [16:17]
Simplicity and Accessibility: Find out what makes Farmhand a user-friendly solution for modern farmers. [18:57]
Custom Solutions: Dive into the customization options Farmhand offers to meet diverse farming needs. [21:25]
Website Building: Explore Farmhand’s approach to creating effective, farm-focused websites. [27:22]

About the Guest:

Ari Memar is not just the mind behind Farmhand; he's also a hobby farmer in Sebastopol, California. There, he cultivates a variety of fruits and vegetables, applying his tech background to foster a sustainable local food ecosystem.

Connect with Farmhand:

Website: Visit Farmhand
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion about blending technology with traditional farming to create a thriving agricultural business!

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

281. Briana Bosch on Sustainability, Sheep, and Suburban Farming Apr 30, 2024

How can suburban spaces transform into sustainable farming hubs?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bri Bosch who runs Blossom & Branch Farm in Colorado. On 1.7 acres in the suburbs of Denver, Briana and her husband have been blending budget-friendly farming with environmental stewardship, and offering educational classes and sustainable wedding florals.

Listen in to hear how Bri incorporates cover crops, plastic-free practices, and holistic animal grazing to produce healthy soil and beautiful flowers.

You’ll hear:

What it’s like to farm in the suburbs 1:39
Why and how Bri’s farm has gone plastic-free 14:34
About the mulch they use on their garden 17:23
More about their unique seed starting process using wool 21:44
What the current main focuses are on the farm right now 29:53
About the types of classes they offer 32:22
More about how Briana manages the farm’s social media 58:04

About the Guest:

Briana is a fifth generation farmer running her own regenerative flower farm Blossom and Branch Farm near Denver, Colorado. She emphasizes cost saving practices that also consider the health of the planet and soil as top priorities.

Resources:

Website - www.blossomandbranchfarm.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blossomandbranchfarm YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@blossomandbranch TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/discover/blossom-and-branch-farm

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, FarmHand!

When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management?

In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms.

The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

280. Hannah Breckbill on Collaborative Farm Ownership Apr 23, 2024

Does a farm run by its workers affect its success and how it operates?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Hannah Breckbill, who helped start Humble Hands Harvest. This organic farm in Northeast Iowa is run by its workers. Now in her 12th year, Hannah and her team practice no-till farming, showing their dedication to sustainable food and supporting the local community.

Listen in to find out how Hannah runs this community-focused, worker-owned farm.

You’ll hear:

How Hannah got started in sustainable agriculture 1:00
About Humble Hands’ journey to owning land 5:01
What Certified Organic means to Hannah 8:51
About what the help on the farm is like as a worker-owned farm 11:06
More about the biggest challenges Humble Hands faces with their business model 18:37
About what kind of education/encouragement they offer the queer farming community 29:38
What Hannah’s advice is for beginning farmers 31:43

About the Guest:

Hannah is starting her 12th season with Humble Hands Harvest, a worker-owned vegetable farm growing food for the people of Decorah, Iowa. She holds a vision of a cooperative food web that regenerates rural livelihood as well as soil and ecosystems. She launched the Queer Farmer Convergence in 2018 and loves to be gathered on the land with fellow farmers and land stewards.

Resources:

Website - https://humblehandsharvest.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/humblehandsharvest Facebook - facebook.com/humblehandsharvest

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

279. Josh Holleb on Advancing Efficient Greenhouse Design Apr 16, 2024

What are the key benefits of integrating advanced technology into greenhouse construction?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Josh Holleb who is the Systems Integration Specialist at Ceres Greenhouse Solutions. Josh combines his construction and farming expertise to help create sustainable growing spaces that blend technology with smart design.

Tune in to hear about sustainable greenhouses that blend technology with smart design.

You’ll hear:

How Josh got into greenhouses 0:51
More about the types of greenhouses they build 2:29
About the estimated costs for Ceres’ greenhouse designs 13:07
What are the biggest principles Josh has learned while working with Ceres 17:44
About the new markets Ceres has been exploring 22:17
More about The Vesta 23:46
How Ceres’ practices integrate with permaculture 30:12

About the Guest:

Josh Holleb has been working at the intersection of construction and agriculture for over 15 years. From running organic farms to building permaculture sites to growing Ceres greenhouse Solutions as a business, he tries to combine good design with smart farming techniques to help people and businesses succeed in creating efficient growing environments.

Resources:

Website - www.ceresgs.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/CerescannGreenhouse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CeresgreenhousesFacebook - Ceres Greenhouse Solutions

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

278. Bryce Loewen on the Sweet Success of Stone Fruits Apr 09, 2024

What are the biggest challenges in fruit farming?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bryce Loewen of Blossom Bluff Orchards as he shares his journey in agriculture and the challenges of organic fruit farming in California's Central Valley. He discusses the life cycle of orchards, the yield per acre of stone fruits, and the importance of diversity in fruit varieties.

Tune in to hear about this inspirational, multigenerational farm.

You’ll hear:

About Bryce’s journey into agriculture 0:56
More on Blossom Bluff’s average stone fruit yield per acre 9:06
What some of the growing challenges are 13:19
About how the seasons go on the farm 15:22
More about Blossom Bluff’s sales venues 21:06
What Bryce’s intentions are for the farm’s future 33:37
Bryce’s advice for people thinking of starting a farm 39:24

About the Guest: Bryce is a fourth generation farmer at Blossom Bluff Orchards. He and his sister Renata grew up in a house on the bluff of the Kings River that their parents (Fran and Ted) still live in today. Bryce and Renata also live on the farm in houses that were acquired from neighbors as the farm grew, and all four work together in various roles and share ownership of Blossom Bluff Orchards. Their farming strategy involves finding niches to fill, developing a brand and a reputation for quality, and selling directly to stores, restaurants and consumers.

Resources:

Website - https://blossombluff.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blossomblufforchardsFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/blossombluff

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

277. Paul Muller on Organic Farming's Past, Present and Future Apr 02, 2024

How has organic farming evolved over the years and what might the future hold?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Paul Muller who is a part of the pioneering force at Full Belly Farm, a 450-acre certified organic farm in North Central California. For over four decades, the farm has championed economic stability, year-round employment, and a strong community connection, ensuring nourishment for this generation and those to come.

Tune in to hear all about how Paul ensures that this large organic farm continues to thrive!

You’ll hear:

How Paul got started in farming 0:59
About the Full Belly team 10:20
More on the history of organic farming and the Real Organic Project 15:48
About Paul’s take about soil science 22:28
How Full Belly uses cover crops 34:39
What Paul is doing to bring up the next generation of farmers at Full Belly 46:15
About Paul’s advice for new farmers 56:15

About the Guest: Paul Muller farms with family and partners at Full Belly farm, a diversified 450 acre organic farm in North Central California's Capay Valley. For more than 40 years, Full Belly has been seeking to evolve a model farm that is economically stable, honors employees with a business design that creates year round employment, strives to grow more layers of life on a farm for environmental complexity, and seeks to connect with a community of farm supporters for a broader social impact.

Resources:

Website - fullbellyfarm.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/full_belly_farm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FullBellyFarm

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

276. Abram Bicksler on Empowering our World's Farmers with ECHO Mar 26, 2024

How does the health of soil directly impact global hunger solutions?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., who is President and CEO of ECHO, a global Christian organization focused on empowering the undernourished through sustainable hunger solutions. With over 15 years of international experience, Abram leads the charge to help foster sustainable agricultural practices and holistic missions worldwide.

Tune in to hear how Abram leads ECHO to help small farmers thrive around the world!

You’ll hear:

How Abram got started in his career 1:02
More about Abram’s time working with government agencies 3:49
About some of the problems facing small farmers around the world 13:02
How ECHO helps farmers maintain organic matter in their soil 23:53
More about how ECHO provides pertinent information to people regarding conventional fertilizers 35:02

About the Guest: Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., is the President/CEO of ECHO, a global Christian technical resourcing and networking organization based in Fort Myers, Florida. He is responsible for leading the overall global programs and operations of the organization in order to help it achieve its vision of honoring God by empowering the undernourished with sustainable hunger solutions.

With more than 15 years of international experience, including five years as Director of ECHO’s Asia Regional Impact Center from 2013-2018, Bicksler most recently served as an Agricultural Officer in the agroecology team at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome, Italy. He is passionate about holistic mission and empowering people to use their gifts, skills, education and experiences to bring healing to people and the creation.

Resources:

Website - www.echonet.org Website - www.echocommunity.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/echofightshunger/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ECHOFightsHunger

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

275. Julia Bocchese on Sprouting Success: SEO Strategies for Farmers Mar 19, 2024

How can SEO transform your farm's online visibility?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julia Bocchese, a SEO Consultant for agriculture and horticulture businesses and founder of Homegrown Reach. With a deep passion for supporting local agriculture, Julia focuses on making businesses easily discoverable to their ideal customers through tailored optimization strategies.

Tune in to hear how you can utilize SEO to reach more farm customers.

You’ll hear:

About what SEO is 2:19
How you should showcase your images 8:46
Whether people should use AI to generate their ad copy 13:34
More on what platforms Julia recommends 14:35
What specific SEO services Julia offers 19:12
What Julia’s advice is for someone who wants to dive into SEO 22:38

About the Guest: Julia Bocchese is an SEO Consultant for agriculture and horticulture businesses at Homegrown Reach and is the first SEO professor at Drexel University. Her goal is to make SEO strategies approachable and easy to implement for all small businesses so they can reach their customers organically and help their business bloom.

She lives in Philadelphia with her family and, on the side, she's working on revitalizing their previously neglected garden, runs a travel photography site, and experiments with spicy recipes in the kitchen.

Resources:

Website - https://homegrownreach.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/homegrownreach

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.

So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

274. Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou on Navigating the Wholesale Market Mar 12, 2024

How can small farms compete in a wholesale market dominated by large agricultural businesses?

On this episode, Michael is joined by Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou who co-runs Brisa Ranch in California's Pescadero area. Together with his farm partners, their farm offers a variety of crops grown regeneratively on ecologically rich farmland for mainly local wholesale distribution.

Tune in to hear how Cole’s farm is successfully geared to wholesalers than direct to consumer.

You’ll hear:

About where Brisa Ranch is located 0:56
More about how they make their deliveries 3:16
What a typical week on the farm is like 5:22
About the soil fertility on the farm 8:35
More about their two irrigation systems they have 16:13
About the other owners and the kind of crew they maintain 24:50
What the biggest challenge has been since Brisa Ranch started 35:37

About the Guest: Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou, along with Cristóbal Cruz Hernández and Verónica Mazariegos-Anastassiou, co-own Brisa Ranch which grows a diverse range of crops (nearly 40 different crops) on over 30 acres. About 95% of their sales are B2B, selling directly to a range of grocery stores, school districts, universities, hospitals, corporate kitchens, food banks, etc. Beyond being certified organic, they are certified with Real Organic Project to differentiate their soil-focused growing practices.

Resources:

Website - www.brisaranch.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brisaranch Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brisaranch

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams.

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers.

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

273. Theresa Podoll on Sowing Resilience with Organic Seed Production Mar 05, 2024

How many plants does it take to get a pound of tomato seeds?

On this episode we’re joined by Theresa Podoll from Prairie Road Organic Seed in Fullerton, North Dakota. Since 1997, Theresa and her husband, Dan, have been passionate about providing resilient, organic seed varieties with a focus on taste and abundance for their customers.

Tune in to hear about the important need for regional seed supplies and the role of seed companies in providing resources and support to gardeners.

You’ll hear:

How Theresa got started in farming and seed production 0:50
What Real Certified Organic means to Theresa 7:53
More about which seed crops use the most nutrients 13:48
About the methods they used to harvest their seeds 17:08
What is the hardest part of seed production, according to Theresa 26:54
What advice Theresa would give someone starting in seed production 35:09
About how many plants does it typically take to get a pound of tomato seed 41:17
More about their biggest challenges 42:31

About the Guest:

Along with her husband, Dan, Theresa Podoll runs Prairie Road Organic Seed in Fullerton, ND where they focus on providing their customers with strong, resilient seeds of 'work-horse' varieties. They’ve been seed producers and contract growers for other garden seed companies since 1997 and all of Prairie Road’s seed is grown on their farm which has been certified organic since 1977.

Resources:

Website - https://www.prairieroadorganic.co/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PrairieRoadOrganicSeed Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theresa_at_prairie_road/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams.

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers.

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

272. Jeremy Kaufman on the Impact of Agroforestry on Farming Feb 27, 2024

Can agroforestry boost farm profitability?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jeremy Kaufman who is Chief of Operations at Propagate, a leader in Agroforestry. Along with his team, Jeremy is fully committed to integrating agroforestry into farming to increase farm profits, decrease erosion and nutrient loss, and promote the broad use of sustainable farming methods.

Tune in to hear how integrating agroforestry into traditional farming practices can transform the agricultural landscape.

You’ll hear:

How Propagate Ag got started 1:03
About some of the large projects Propagate is currently working on 4:20
More about the motivation behind moving entirely to agroforestry 15:17
How Propagate aims to create a domestic wholesale market for chestnuts 18:42
About Propagate’s partnership with Rodale Institute 20:51
How Propagate handles marketing and buyer engagement 36:38
What Jeremy’s favorite tool is on the farm 44:43

About the Guest:

Jeremy is an entrepreneur, designer and operations executive who previously designed digital products for a range of companies from startups to Fortune 500. At Propagate, Jeremy leads technology development & operations. Jeremy holds a B.A. in Entrepreneurship from Miami University. Having worked on organic farms, and being a part of a 3rd generation family timber products business, he is focused on the systemic interplay between agricultural, economic, and cultural paradigms.

Resources:

Website - propagateag.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/propagateag/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/propagate_ag/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/propagateag/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams.

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers.

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

271. Amy Fewell on Herbalism, Health and Homesteading Feb 20, 2024

Are you looking for more community and education on homesteading?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Amy Fewell, who is the visionary behind Homesteaders of America. As a published author, herbalist, and modern-day milkmaid, Amy nurtures her passion for self-sufficiency on her family’s farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Tune in to hear more about herbalism and community cultivation from this inspiring homesteader.

You’ll hear:

When Amy got into homesteading 1:24
Some of Amy’s suggestions for getting kids to eat healthier 4:59
How Homesteaders of America creates a sense of community 15:39
About Amy’s favorite herbs 20:33
What Amy’s advice is for someone just getting into homesteading 25:45
More on the future plan for Homesteaders of America 42:07
What Amy’s favorite homesteading tool is 44:24

About the Guest:

Amy Fewell is the author of two published books, and runs a homestead alongside her husband and three children in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. She is an herbalist, avid gardener, and modern day milkmaid as well as the founder of Homesteaders of America.

Resources: Website - https://thefewellhomestead.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amy.fewell Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thefewellhomestead

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at HarvestHosts.com today!

270. Tim Joseph on the Grass-fed Dairy Revolution Feb 13, 2024

How long do you think it takes to get a cow from grain fed to fully grass-fed?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tim Joseph, the pioneering founder of Maple Hill Creamery, the largest 100% regenerative, grass-fed organic dairy farm in the U.S. After leaving his corporate job, Tim positioned Maple Hill at the forefront of the dairy industry, championing grass-fed organic dairy and regenerative farming practices.

Tune in to hear all about Tim and Maple Hill’s dairy farming journey.

You’ll hear:

How Tim got started in farming 1:26
Where all the milk went after the first 60 cows 5:12
About the decision on whether they needed a second farm 16:37
What allowed Maple Hill to scale so smoothly 20:43
More about when Tim knew he needed an experienced management team 26:12
Why don’t they make chocolate milk anymore (everybody loves it, nobody buys it!) 39:11
What Tim’s advice is for someone considering getting into dairy farming 40:49

About the Guest:

In a world dominated by corporate conventional farming, Tim Joseph, Founder of Maple Hill Creamery, chose a different path. He made the decision to leave his corporate job and embark on a journey of owning a farm and raising his four young boys. That same year, Maple Hill Creamery's mission, focusing on "better for the cows, consumers, land, and farmers," began to resonate with a wider audience across the U.S., with this vision going beyond profit margins, seeing dairy farming as a lifestyle to him and hundreds of family farms they work with.

Resources:

Website - https://www.maplehill.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/maplehillcreamery/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MapleHillCreamery/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams.

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers.

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

269: Alexis Dragovich on Milling a New Path in Grain Farming Feb 06, 2024

What are the unique challenges of growing and milling your own grains?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Alexis Dragovich, co-operator of Mud Run Farms in northeast Ohio. What started out as a 1st generation dairy farm has turned into a father daughter team working hard to make certified organic grains and fresh stone-ground flours more commonplace.

Tune in to hear about Alexis’ passion for healthy grains, small business and their local community.

You’ll hear:

How Mud Run Farm got started in growing grains 1:21
About the kind of mill Mud Run uses 3:11
What the difference is between hard red wheat and soft red wheat 6:38
More about how Mud Run Farm markets their products 12:07
What Alexis’ advise would be to herself at the start of her journey 18:37

About the Guest:

Alexis Dragovich is co-operating Mud Run Farm, a small, certified organic farm in Northeast Ohio. What started out as a 1st generation 6-head family dairy farm has turned into a certified organic, diverse small grain farm, mill and business. Along with her father, Alex, Alexis is now focused mainly on producing and milling small grains to produce something that was really lacking in their region and community. This father-daughter team shares a strong passion for organics, the environment, and small businesses.

Resources:

Website - https://www.mudrunfarmorganics.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mudrunfarmorganicsInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/mudrunfarmorganics

Resource mentioned: Artisan Grain Collaborative

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at HarvestHosts.com today!

268. Jodi Roebuck on Mastering the Elements on a New Zealand Market Farm Jan 30, 2024

How does your local climate influence your agricultural decisions?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jodi Roebuck who is the trailblazing market gardener and mentor at Roebuck Farm in Taranaki, New Zealand.

With over two decades of experience, Jodi guides fellow growers toward more economically viable farming practices, embodying his belief that when environmental and financial health go hand in hand, true sustainability is achieved.

Tune in to hear all about farming in windy and wet New Zealand!

You’ll hear:

What farming is like in New Zealand 1:55
How Jodi got started in farming 3:43
What a high-wind hoop house/greenhouse looks like 12:02
About what a typical day looks like on Jodi’s farm 20:53
What Jodi’s thought process was leading up to the big greenhouse project 28:29
What key principles Roebuck Farm follows to sustain their success 39:17
More on what the next years hold for Roebuck Farm 45:19
What would Jodi do differently given the opportunity to start over 47:50

About the Guest:

Jodi Roebuck is a world-renowned contemporary market gardener with 20+ years experience in sustainable growing and coaches the essentials of a profitable market garden business. Jodi’s philosophy is clear: true sustainability must also be profitable. He firmly believes that being “green” is only achievable if you’re not “in the red,” emphasizing the importance of economic viability in sustainable agriculture.

Resources:

Website - https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jodiroebuck/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RoebuckFarmPodcast Mentioned: The Profitable Mini Farm

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

267. Brad Russell on Reviving Chestnut Farming in the US Jan 23, 2024

What unique challenges and rewards come with chestnut farming?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Brad Russell of Chestnuts in the Ozarks in Omaha, Arkansas. Brad’s lifelong respect for nature along with his dedication to sustainable agriculture has guided him and his wife, Sandy, to revive and sustain the long-forgotten legacy of chestnut farming in the United States.

Tune in to hear all about Chestnuts in the Ozarks and the world of chestnut farming!

You’ll hear:

How Brad got started in chestnuts 0:49
What varieties of chestnuts does Brad’s farm work with 8:13
About the care methods for chestnut trees 12:29
How someone who wants to plant chestnut trees would need to plan 14:03
About which insects people should watch out for 18:19
About what bare roots trees typically cost 22:31
How you can learn more about Chestnuts in the Ozarks 27:37

About the Guest:

In the picturesque countryside of the Ozarks in Omaha, Arkansas, Brad and Sandy Russell discovered their farm’s purpose in the age-old tradition of chestnut farming where Chestnuts in the Ozarks was born. Brad grew up with a profound respect for nature and an unwavering passion for sustainable agriculture. Brad and Sandy’s journey in the world of chestnut farming would become a testament to their love for each other, the earth, and their deep connection to their farm. It has become their determination to sustain an age-old legacy that has been long forgotten here in the United States.

Resources:

Website - https://www.chestnutsintheozarks.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chestnutsozark/ Facebook - Chestnuts in the Ozarks

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

266. Ann Accetta-Scott on Embracing Homesteading and Food Preservation Jan 16, 2024

How do you take your homestead from beginner to profitable?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Ann Accetta-Scott, a dedicated first-generation homesteader and the author behind "The Farm Girl's Guide to Preserving the Harvest." While managing her family farm in Middle Tennessee, Ann shares her journey from self-taught beginnings to becoming a community cultivator and advocate for a simpler, more sustainable way of life.

Tune in to hear how Ann teaches others how to establish a life centered around clean eating, food ownership, and homesteading skills.

You’ll hear:

About why Ann got started in farming 0:47
What their biggest challenge was when increasing their farm’s acreage 2:18
What Ann’s goal was when she started the garden 12:04
What challenges Ann experienced when moving cross country 14:44
How Ann designed her garden for preservation 20:08
Ann’s tips for making a homestead profitable 39:03
What is covered in The Farm Girl’s Guide to Preserving the Harvest 54:19

About the Guest:

Ann is a first-generation homesteader who manages her small family farm in southern Middle Tennessee. She is the author of The Farm Girl's Guide to Preserving the Harvest and the content curator for her website, A Farm Girl in the Making. Ann is a teacher by trade but has left the school system to teach individuals how to achieve a simpler and more traditional way of life.

Resources:

Website - https://afarmgirlinthemaking.com/ Facebook - A Farm Girl in the Making Instagram - A Farm Girl in the Making Her Book The Farm Girl’s Guide to Preserving the Harvest

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

The 2024 Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit is in the books. Did you miss it? No worries! You still have the chance to catch all the invaluable insights and expert advice. Grab your All-Access Pass today and learn at your own pace about innovative farming techniques, effective marketing strategies, and how to maximize yields and profits on your farm or homestead. Visit farmsummits.com now to get your All-Access Pass and start your journey to a more successful and sustainable farming future!

265. Michael Kilpatrick on his Top Takeaways from the Vegetable Summit Jan 09, 2024

Are you ready to take your vegetable farming to the next level?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael shares about this year’s Thriving Farmer Summit and this year is all about Vegetables. The Summit is a free event happening January 12-14th and features a lineup of expert speakers covering topics from fertilizer-free farming methods and winter production to balancing family and farming, soil tests, compost and much more.

Tune in to hear about how this year’s Summit offers valuable insights and practical tips for farmers to improve their farming practices and grow better quality vegetables.

Click here to register for the Vegetable Summit.

You’ll hear:

About what the Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit is all about
Some details about each of this year’s Session Speakers
What some of Michael’s biggest takeaways were from his interviews
How to register for the Vegetable Summit

About the Guest:

Michael Kilpatrick is a farmer and educator in Carlisle, Ohio. Along with his wife, Savannah, they run the Farm on Central, where they pursue their passion of providing fresh and local food to the community.

In addition to co-running the farm, Savannah teaches cooking, canning, and baking classes from her kitchen. Meanwhile, Michael is also the founder of Growing Farmers and the Thriving Farmer Online Summits and is dedicated to providing educational resources for farmers.

Together, they reach a community of over 60,000 farmers, homesteaders, and families!

Resources:

Website - Register here for the Vegetable Summit

And if you want to keep the conversation going, join us in our Facebook Group to connect with us and other farmers looking to grow their business!

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at Harvest Hosts.com today!

264. Michael and Savannah Kilpatrick on a Farm Year in Review Jan 02, 2024

Do you take the time to reflect on the past year of your farm?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by his wife, Savannah. Together, they chat about how this past year went at their farm in Ohio called The Farm on Central. From building a farm store to strawberries and sourdough, they share the up's and down's of 2023.

Tune in to hear about this Year in Review and how they are taking the lessons they learned into the New Year.

You’ll hear:

Why they started The Farm on Central 1:01
About what all has changed with their store this year 5:19
What they’ve been doing with sourdough bread 11:35
About how they did their hiring and team management 15:17
An update on their farm’s soil and water 24:47
What is currently going on with their wellness line 29:52
An update on some new land they recently leased 39:35

About the Guest:

Michael & Savannah Kilpatrick are farmers and educators in Carlisle, Ohio. Together they run The Farm on Central, where they pursue their passion of providing fresh and local food to the community.

In addition to co-running the farm, Savannah teaches cooking, canning, and baking classes from her kitchen. Meanwhile, Michael is also the founder of Growing Farmers and the Thriving Farmer Online Summit s and is dedicated to providing educational resources for farmers.

Together, they reach a community of over 60,000 farmers, homesteaders, and families!

Resources:

Website - https://farmoncentral.com/ Crowdfunding Page - https://farmoncentral.com/crowdfunding/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/farmoncentral/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/farmoncentral

And if you want to keep the conversation going, join us in our Facebook Group to connect with us and other farmers looking to grow their business!

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at Harvest Hosts.com today!

263. Melissa Smith on the Delights and Demands of Growing Dahlias Dec 26, 2023

What lessons can Southern gardeners learn from Melissa Smith's experience with dahlias?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Melissa Smith of Fraylick Farm who is a passionate gardener, dahlia enthusiast, and experienced flower farmer. As a Clemson certified Master Gardener and a self-taught expert in the art of cut flower cultivation, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep love for nurturing beauty in every bloom.

Tune in to hear how Melissa markets her flower farm and her passion for dahlias.

You’ll hear:

How Melissa got started with growing flowers 0:56
What Fraylick Farm’s marketing looks like 7:30
How does their wholesale model work 11:30
About Melissa’s criteria for covering versus not covering the flower buds 32:36
How much fertilizer farmers should use on dahlias 43:06
What Melissa’s advice is for someone looking to get started in flower farming 49:47
About Melissa’s favorite farming tool 54:01

About the Guest:

Melissa Smith is a seasoned gardener and farmer, renowned for her deep love for dahlias and an impressive array of cut flowers. With a gardening journey rooted in the South, Melissa has honed her skills to navigate the challenges of Southern horticulture, turning her dreams of lush, bountiful gardens into a vibrant reality. A Clemson certified Master Gardener, she embodies a hands-on, learn-by-doing approach to flower farming, dedicating her time to thinking, planning, and growing an extensive variety of blooms.

Resources:

Website - www.fraylick.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/FraylickFarmsInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/flwrtherapy/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

262. Jeff Bednar on Building a Successful Food Hub Dec 19, 2023

What can you learn from a food hub model of connecting local producers with chefs and consumers?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jeff Bednar, the innovative force behind Profound Foods in North Texas. Since 2014, Jeff and his wife, Lee, have been revolutionizing local food systems and specializing in hydroponic produce. Jeff connects consumers directly to locally-grown food through his online marketplace, all while fostering community education and supporting future food entrepreneurs.

Tune in to hear all about how Jeff built a farm and food hub with a solid reputation for quality, consistency and education.

You’ll hear:

About how Jeff got started in farming 0:58
How they started selling to chefs and restaurants 6:05
About how the food hub pricing model works 10:20
What their marketing looks like 14:28
How Jeff has assembled the Profound Foods team 18:10
About how the Profound Foods dinners work 23:06
What Jeff would do differently if he could start over again 33:08
How Jeff and Lee keep their whole family involved 37:31
About Jeff’s favorite product in the food hub 41:07
What the future holds for Profound Foods 42:52

About the Guest:

Jeff Bednar founded Profound Microfarms in 2014. They specialize in growing over 150 varieties of high-quality hydroponic lettuces, rare culinary herbs, and microgreens on 10 acres just north of Dallas, Texas, using sustainable agricultural practices in controlled environments.

In 2018, Jeff founded Profound Foods which is a North Texas food hub dedicated to providing locally grown and sustainably produced food to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Their mission is to build and support a sustainable food system by connecting local farmers and consumers through their online marketplace.

In addition to providing fresh, local food, Profound Foods and Profound Microfarms are committed to educating the community about the importance of sustainable agriculture and supporting local farmers. They offer educational workshops, farm tours, a food entrepreneur incubator kitchen and intern opportunities to connect people with their food sources and promote a more sustainable food system.

Resources:

Website - www.profoundfoods.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/profoundfoodsFacebook - www.facebook.com/profoundfoods

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

261. Laura Fernandez on Sowing Seeds of Sustainability with Garden Design Dec 12, 2023

In what ways can transforming our front yards into edible landscapes impact our local food systems and communities?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Laura Fernandez who is the visionary behind Front Yard Foods in South Carolina. Laura's journey began with a simple garden at the age of 12 and has blossomed into a mission to reconnect people with their food through personalized garden designs, educational courses, and a passion for community-driven sustainability.

Tune in to hear all about how Laura built this thriving garden operation from the ground up!

You’ll hear:

How Laura started getting interested in plants 0:59
How Front Yard Foods got started 5:09
About Laura’s biggest surprise in how the business has grown 7:54
What Laura does for marketing 13:25
How Laura runs the books 19:30
About what Laura would change if she could start again 29:06
What Laura’s advice is for new gardeners 36:09

About the Guest:

Laura Fernandez founded Front Yard Foods in 2022 in order to help people develop uniquely designed gardens and edible landscapes. Laura’s passion for food first sprouted when she built her first garden with her grandfather at the age of 12.

Food, farming and community are of the greatest importance to her. Through Front Yard Foods, she hopes to inspire others to find their own connection to the earth and its value. Laura uses custom designs, individualized consultation and personalized education to build the confidence of each gardener and equip them with knowledge to accomplish their unique goals.

Resources:

Website - frontyardfoods.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/FrontYardFoodsSC Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frontyard_foods/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

260. Megan Neubauer on Transforming Farms with U-Pick Agritourism Dec 05, 2023

Ever thought about shifting your farm to a U-Pick model?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is diving into the world of agritourism with Megan Neubauer of Pure Land Farm located in McKinney, Texas. Megan literally wrote the book on pick-your-own farming and her farming journey offers invaluable insights into transforming local agriculture into a profitable, community-driven experience.

Tune in to hear about Megan’s thriving U-Pick operation and her new book!

You’ll hear:

How Megan got into farming 0:52
What led Megan to shift her farm to Upick 4:52
What the average customer expects when participating in U-pick 10:37
How their crops are priced 11:42
About how they package their berries for U-Pick customers 15:08
What software Megan uses for booking 21:23
About how they deal with “problem people” 25:00
About their marketing focus 30:19
What Megan’s advice is for newer farmers or farmers looking to change things up 38:04

About the Guest:

Megan Neubauer is a farmer in North Texas. She graduated with a BS in Biology from Boston University in 2004 and after several years working in biotech and scientific research, Megan and her father created Pure Land Farm in McKinney, TX in 2012. Pure Land Farm uses regenerative growing methods on three acres of thornless blackberries and two acres of diversified fruits and vegetables, exclusively marketing their products using agritourism.

Her new book on Pick-Your-Own-Farming releases December 4th, 2023.

Resources:

Website - www.purelandorganic.com Megan’s Book - Pick-Your-Own Farming - available NOW Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PureLandFarm Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/purelandfarm TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@purelandfarm

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

259. Billy Bond on Value-Added Farming and Permaculture Practices Nov 28, 2023

How does the concept of value-added thinking apply to both farming and our daily lives?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Billy Bond, owner of Perma Pastures Farm, located in North Carolina. From hands-on workshops to online education, Billy and his family share their knowledge and love for permaculture. When he’s not on their farm, he is helping transform damaged and destroyed landscapes into abundant permaculture farms.

Tune in to hear about permaculture and value-added thinking for your farm!

You’ll hear:

How Billy got started in farming 0:50
About the kind of property Perma Pastures Farm is 7:29
What new homesteaders should focus on first 12:01
About what Billy’s Bone Sauce is 25:10
What Billy would do differently given the ability to start from the beginning 31:14

About the Guest:

Billy was a city kid. He went to college for a short while before joining the US Army to become an Airborne Sapper. After military service, Billy became an IBEW electrician and completed degrees in biology and business administration. He moonlighted as a part-time talk radio host and learned the craft of fine butchery at The Local Pig in Kansas City, Mo.

Billy was bitten by the permaculture bug and life was never the same. He earned his permaculture design certificate and has since designed several homesteads in several states…and has even installed a permaculture orchard (with chickens) on an active construction site. He loves experimenting and learning!

Resources:

Website - https://permapasturesfarm.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/permapasturesfarm/ YouTube - https://youtube.com/@PermaPasturesFarm21

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

258. Jacob Towe on Building a Community-Focused Farm Nov 21, 2023

What challenges and opportunities arise when starting a farm and retail venture from scratch?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jacob Towe of Jubilee Farms in Pauline, South Carolina. After helping with his family’s Christmas tree farm from an early age, Jacob launched his own regenerative farm as well as a local grocery store focused on real food and farm-to-table connections.

Tune in to hear how Jacob boot-strapped his way into a successful farm life!

In this episode, you’ll hear…

How Jacob got started in regenerative farming 0:55
What his biggest takeaways were from his time at Polyface Farm 3:11
What kind of farmland Jubilee Farm has 9:16
More about the farm’s grocery store 10:45
What Jacob would do differently given the opportunity to start over 24:21
About their store’s customers and what they purchase most 31:08
What Jacob’s advice is for newer farmers 32:45

About the Guest:

Jacob Towe is the owner of Jubilee Farms and co-owner of Farmfare Grocery in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. He has been involved in agriculture from an early age helping with his grandfather's Christmas tree farm and later getting his own chickens. After a summer at Polyface in 2017 he launched Jubilee Farms as a first generation livestock farmer. Recently he opened his first retail location named Farmfare in partnership with his mother Paula.

Resources:

Website - Jubileefarmssc.comFarm’s Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jubileefarmssc/ Store’s Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FarmfareLocalGrocery/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jubilee_farms_sc/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

257. Suzanne Karreman on the Grass-Roots of Sustainable Dairy Farming Nov 14, 2023

Is it the grass or the genetics that helps most with grass-fed dairy farming?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Suzanne Karreman of Reverence Farms in North Carolina. Along with her veterinarian husband, Dr. Hubert, they run a 400-acre, 80-cow grass-fed dairy. Their farm is a thriving polyculture where animals are ‘passionately pastured’ and the land benefits from careful, healing stewardship.

Tune in today to hear about Suzanne’s passion and knowledge about grass-fed dairy cows.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

How Suzanne got into farming 0:59
How long it took for Suzanne and her husband to go commercial 8:20
What Suzanne’s stance is on whether or not going grass-fed is worth it 15:42
About where the milk from the current herd is going 26:48
What the Reverence Farm team looks like 33:02
What a typical year looks like at Reverence Farms 39:12
About the other enterprises they work on 46:45
What Suzanne’s advice for newer farmers is 49:32

About the Guest:

Suzanne and her vet husband, Hubert, run a 400-acre, 80-cow grass-fed dairy in the North Carolina Piedmont. Suzanne’s passion project is breeding Jersey cows to thrive on a pasture-only diet, while also building pastures of sufficient energy to allow the cows to thrive. Pigs, chickens, horses and sheep also graze their pastures, and the farm is also home to 20-40 Jersey bulls that are sent all over the U.S. and into Canada to sire cows that can convert sunshine into butter.

Resources:

Website - www.reverencefarms.comFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/reverencefarmsnc/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reverence.farms/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

256. Julie Olberding on Growing Award-Winning Garlic Nov 07, 2023

Do you know what all goes into garlic growing?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julie Olberding of Rustic Roots Farm in Alexandria, Minnesota. Their farm balances natural resources with a blend of innovative techniques and traditional methods to produce the highest quality products for their customers. They specialize in hardneck garlic, maple syrup, asparagus and more using these natural and regenerative methods.

Tune in to hear about Julie’s award-winning garlic and her advice for new farmers.

You’ll hear:

How Julie and Chad got started in farming 1:35
Why Rustic Roots choose garlic to start with 5:07
Why Rustic Roots does farmers markets 9:35
About Rustic Roots’ marketing 14:03
More on the other garlic products they offer 16:57
How many varieties of garlic they grow 20:30
What Rustic Roots offers in terms of education 27:01
About their fertility program 33:53
What other enterprises and products their farm offers 42:41
What Julie’s advice is for newer farmers 45:03
About what Julie would change if she could go back and start over 48:38

About the Guest:

Julie Olberding and her family started Rustic Roots Farm near Alexandria, Minnesota. They are first generation farmers now entering their 5th year of farming. They raise specialty crops (hardneck garlic, maple syrup, asparagus and small square bales of hay) using natural, sustainable and regenerative methods.

They started Rustic Roots Farm to teach their kids the values of independence, hard work, self-reliance, perseverance and creative thinking and they are involved in the day-to-day operations of the farm. In 2022, their farm was honored to be selected as a featured grower at the Minnesota Garlic Festival.

Resources:

Website - https://rusticrootsfarm.eatfromfarms.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rusticrootsfarmmnFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/rusticrootsfarmmn

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org.

255. Tim and Sophia Eng on Cooking and Community Cultivation Oct 31, 2023

What are ways you can get involved in your local community?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tim and Sophia Eng who are both first-generation Asian American farmers who left their Silicon Valley careers to start a 5-acre micro farm in northeast Tennessee. Tim is a homestead-focused realtor and Sophia is the author of The Nourishing Asian Kitchen cookbook.

Tune in to hear how they are cultivating a community and the next generation.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

About Tim and Sophia got started in their real food journey 1:41
What is typical of Asian American food offerings 4:03
More on Sophia’s biggest learning experiences while writing her cookbook 8:31
About their move from California to Tennessee 11:20
What the word “community” means to Tim and Sophia and what kind of community they aim to build in Tennessee 21:29
All about the different enterprises that Sophia and Tim are involved in 27:02
How the cookbook has become a lead qualifier for their real estate business 30:44
About what’s next for Sophia and Tim 38:07

About the Guest:

Tim and Sophia Eng, author of The Nourishing Asian Kitchen, is a first-generation Asian American and first-generation farmer who left a successful Silicon Valley career to start a 5-acre micro farm in the Appalachian Mountains. Sophia is the founder of the website Sprinkle With Soil, and a Weston A. Price chapter leader. With her husband, Tim, they raise grass-fed dairy cows and beef cattle, laying hens, broilers, ducks, sheep, goats, turkeys, and grow a variety of produce for her family and local community.

Resources:

Website - https://www.sprinklewithsoil.com Preorder the cookbook! Tim Eng, Homesteading Agent - https://homesteadingrealtor.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sprinklewithsoilFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/sprinklewithsoilblog

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org.

https://bit.ly/farmlandlease

254. Adam Martin on Reviving Sustainable Beekeeping Oct 24, 2023

Can going back to more sustainable ways be the key to modern beekeeping success?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Adam Martin of Bee Kept Farm in middle Tennessee. Along with his wife, Leslie, Adam got into beekeeping using commonly taught methods. After an unsuccessful first year, they decided to think “outside the bee box” and shifted their beekeeping to more natural and sustainable methods.

Tune in to hear how Adam has gone back to more traditional methods to allow the bees to be bees.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

About how Adam got started in beekeeping 1:33
How feral swarms tend to behave 7:35
What Adam does to ensure that his bees thrive 10:38
How Adam harvests honey in a horizontal hive 14:36
What they do to handle pests 18:51
How Adam makes money with his Bee Kept Farm 23:25
What other animals Adam has on his farm 30:52
About the biggest question people have during Bee Kept classes 41:17
What bee species Adam recommends for late crops 44:17

About the Guest:

Adam and Leslie Martin are the proud owners of Bee Kept which is located on their homestead in Southern Middle Tennessee. Starting their homestead in January 2019, bees were one of the first things on the to-do list because they love honey!

Their bee adventure, like most others, started out using all of the common methods taught and promoted by beekeepers and bee clubs all over America and the Western world. After failing miserably in their first season of beekeeping, they used these failures as opportunities to learn outside-of-the-bee-box thinking with their beekeeping methods. Adam also teaches how to trap feral bees, keep them in a low to no maintenance method, and manage the colonies in horizontal hives that are better for the bees and the beekeeper!

Resources:

Website - www.beekept.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/beeingkept/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Beekept2019

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://bit.ly/mydigitalfarmer.

253. Josh and Rebecca Tickell on Regenerative Filmmaking for a Better Planet Oct 17, 2023

Can “regenerative filmmaking” help with our current agricultural challenges?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Josh and Rebecca Tickell who are the filmmakers of the recently released documentary Common Ground. This highly anticipated follow-up to their first film Kiss the Ground is an urgent call to action and offers a plan for how we can save the future, heal our climate, and fix our broken food system – all through regenerative agriculture.

Tune in to hear about their journey with “regenerative filmmaking”.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

What got Rebecca and Josh into “regenerative filmmaking” 1:14
How they realized Kiss the Ground had become such a hit 3:22
About the impacts conventional farming has made on the earth and our health 14:35
How they refused to have the movie censored in any way 21:15
About the project called 100 Million Acres 27:46
What did they learn the most from the making of Common Ground 31:42

About the Guest:

Josh and Rebecca Tickell are Sundance Award-Winning filmmakers of the recent documentary Common Ground, a follow-up to their highly acclaimed documentary Kiss the Ground. Their production company, Big Picture Ranch, creates content that changes the global narrative around important environmental issues.

They’ve won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival with their first film FUEL, premiered their oil spill documentary THE BIG FIX as an official selection at Cannes, and are launching their first scripted feature film, HEARTLAND soon.

Resources:

Film Website - https://commongroundfilm.org/Host a Screening on your Farm! 100 Million Acres: A Common Ground Project Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/commongroundfilm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/commongroundthefilm/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products. In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://bit.ly/mydigitalfarmer.

252. John Arbuckle on Pigs, Productivity, and a Product-Centric System Oct 10, 2023

How do you keep productivity up on your farm?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by John Arbuckle of Singing Pastures Farm. Along with a network of farm partners, John and his family raise heritage breed pigs in the grassy fields of coastal Maine. Hear more about the day-to-day operations and decisions behind this sustainable farm and the uniqueness of their Roam Sticks..

Tune in as we explore their shift from traditional pork production to a product-centric system.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

What John’s farming journey was like growing up 2:34
About the transition from pork to snack sticks 9:26
How they set their farm up to be a product-centric system 13:26
About the big system farm changes to help alleviate John’s workload 17:26
More on where the pork get processed 23:23
What a typical day on the farm is like for John 25:15
John’s advice for new farmers 34:24
About the farm’s distribution 41:43
What makes Singing Pastures’ Roam Sticks different from other meat sticks 42:44
What is John’s favorite tool on the farm? 48:09

About the Guest:

John Arbuckle, of Singing Pastures Farm is a 9th generation farmer. Along with a network of farm partners, John and his family raise heritage breed pigs in the grassy fields of coastal Maine where they are changing the food system from the ground up.

Singing Pastures is a 9th generation farm family focusing on creating the mostly unique and delicious snacks out there! We raise pigs on pasture in ways that create nutrient dense meat, heal ecosystems and nurture wildlife.

Resources:

Website - https://singingpastures.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/singingpastures/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/singingpastures/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org.

251. Craig Odem on Propagating Success in the Nursery Industry Oct 03, 2023

What are the challenges and rewards of transitioning a hobby into a thriving business?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Craig Odem who runs a retail nursery in northwest Alabama. Starting with just a few dozen plants six years ago, Craig and his family have taken their business to a full-scale production and propagation nursery without any background in the industry. He also shares about their nursery growth on YouTube as the Savvy Dirt Farmer.

Tune in to hear how Craig documents their growth and teaches others how to start their own thriving nurseries.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

How Craig got interested in plants 1:43
About the process of taking cuttings and making new plants with them 9:13
Why Craig recently moved 18:44
What a typical year in a nursery looks like 20:10
How Craig runs his clearance sales 28:32
What specific nursery mix does Craig prefer, if any 40:29
Where Craig expects his business to look like in 2 years 43:08
About his nursery’s checkout system on the farm 47:04
What Craig’s favorite tool on the farm is 47:46

About the Guest:

Craig Odem runs a retail nursery in northwest Alabama with his family. The most unique part of their story is that they started their nursery and Youtube with no experience in either field. What began as a backyard hobby turned into a full-time career, and they share the ups and downs, successes and failures as they learn on YouTube as the Savvy Dirt Farmer.

Resources:

His YouTube Channel: Savvy Dirt FarmerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_dirt_farmer/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

250. Jill Winger on Living Old-Fashioned on Purpose Sep 26, 2023

Could you embrace the "Reverse Pioneer" Lifestyle?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jill Winger, The Homestead Mentor of The Prairie Homestead. Jill has taught thousands of people how to cook nourishing homemade meals, grow food in their backyards, and find joy in a simpler, slower life. Her new book Old Fashioned on Purpose releases today and is a rallying cry for a less industrial, more intentional life.

Tune in to hear how Jill sees herself as a Reverse Pioneer and how you also could start to return to your roots.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

Why Jill sees herself as a “Reverse Pioneer” 1:32
About what the homesteading movement is like right now 2:55
What it looks like to “return to our roots” 5:04
How consumer culture is harming society 10:18
About what the human zoo is 14:36
How the Chugwater Soda Fountain got started 17:03
What the biggest lessons and takeaways were from starting that business 19:48
About their beef business 25:25
More about her blog and new book 29:08
About what topics people are interested in right now 30:47
About the next frontier 40:03

About the Guest:

Jill Winger is the founder of The Prairie Homestead, one of the foremost homesteading websites since 2010. She is dedicated to helping others learn how to grow their own food and live a more fulfilling, old-fashioned life. Her new book, Old Fashioned on Purpose, is a rallying cry for a less industrial, more intentional life.

Her practical and authentic style of teaching and storytelling has won the hearts of hundreds of thousands of homesteaders across social media and through the top-ranked Old Fashioned on Purpose podcast and the best-selling Prairie Homestead Cookbook.

Resources:

Website: www.theprairiehomestead.com Her new book: Old Fashioned on PurposeTheir grass-fed & finished Beef Business - Genuine Beef Co (They ship nationwide!)Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theprairiehomestead Instagram: http://instagram.com/jill.winger

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

249. Taylor Ayers on Regenerating Health and Farmland Sep 19, 2023

Has the quality of food you’ve consumed ever affected your health?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Taylor Ayers, co-owner of Ayers Valley Farm located in Russellville, OH. After experiencing health issues that no doctor could pinpoint, Taylor, and her husband Josh, started digging deeper into how their food was raised. Seven years later, they are running their own regenerative farm offering a range of high quality meats to loyal customers all around the country.

Tune in to hear how this health scare prompted a return to the farm and how they manage a thriving operation.

You’ll hear:

What Taylor and Josh’s course of action was when their health issues got out of control 1:45
What they feed to their pigs and chickens 6:42
How they process their animals 11:45
What Taylor expects the future of the farm to look like 21:36
How does Ayers Valley communicate the necessary cost of good food to their customers 28:08
What Taylor’s favorite farming tool is 38:26

About the Guest:

Taylor Ayers is co-owner and operator of Ayers Valley Farm located in Southern Ohio. In 2016, Taylor started experiencing health issues that no doctor could really pinpoint. Frustrated with the lack of answers, Taylor and her husband took matters into their own hands and started digging deeper into how their food was raised.

After learning more about regenerative methods, they decided to return to the land and raise their own food by finishing cattle on grass and rotating the animals to also feed the soil microbes. Seven years later, they are running their own regenerative farm offering a range of high quality meats to loyal customers all around the country.

Resources:

Website - https://ayersvalleyfarmmeats.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/AyersValleyFarm/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ayersvalleyfarm

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

Special Episode: Pete Kennedy on the PRIME Act Sep 13, 2023

Want more access to local meat? We need your help!

On this special time-sensitive episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Pete Kennedy of the Weston A. Price Foundation. Pete is sharing about the Prime Act which is an important piece of legislation that will empower states to decide their meat inspection protocols. The ultimate aim? Making local meat procurement simpler and cost-effective.

Tune in today to hear how you can help small farmers to push this PRIME Act through with this year's Farm Bill.

We’re encouraging all of our US listeners to make three calls - one to your Representative and a call to each of your Senators. Mention your support for H.R. 2814 and Senate bill is S.907 respectively.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

About Pete’s background with Weston A Price Foundation 1:23
What the state of meat processing is like right now in the US 2:12
More about what the Prime Act is 10:38
How you can help make this Prime Act pass 12:45

Resources:

Call today! The deadline to add this to the farm bill is soon and we need your voice to push for more co-sponsors to get this added to the 2023 Farm Bill. The U.S. food system needs reform, and while no solution is perfect, the Prime Act takes a significant step forward. Carve out a few minutes, connect with your elected officials, and champion the cause of affordable local meat.

Tell Congressmen to Cosponsor the PRIME Act

Find your Representative and urge them to co-sponsor the bill! The bill number is H.R. 2814.

Find your Senator and press for their support. The bill number is S.907.

About the Guest:

Pete Kennedy is an attorney and served as president of the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund. He has assisted and represented dairy farmers facing possible enforcement action in various states as well as helped others to get started in the business of distributing raw dairy products. Pete compiled the state raw milk law summaries posted at www.realmilk.com and has since written articles for Wise Traditions on raw milk distribution.

248. Savannah Kilpatrick on Baking and Banking with Sourdough Sep 12, 2023

Is there really a way to make sourdough simple?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by his wife, Savannah, to talk all about sourdough at The Farm on Central. The Farm on Central is a small family farm located in Carlisle, Ohio and provides the community with a wide array of vegetables, meats, and horticultural products.

Join us today to hear how Michael and Savannah incorporate sourdough bread into their home life and as an income stream for their farm.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

About Savannah’s main roles on the Farm 1:59
Why they love sourdough 3:56
About Savannah's sourdough-making process 4:43
About the advantages of a stiff sourdough starter 11:25
How long should a sourdough loaf rest between making and baking 16:29
Why Savannah decided to offer Sourdough classes 26:33
On why sourdough can be a grounding experience 32:01

About the Guests:

Michael & Savannah Kilpatrick are farmers and educators in Carlisle, Ohio. Together they run the Farm on Central, where they pursue their passion of providing fresh and local food to the community.

In addition to co-running the farm, Savannah teaches cooking, canning, and baking classes from her kitchen. Meanwhile, Michael is also the founder of Growing Farmers and is dedicated to providing educational resources for farmers.

Together, they reach a community of over 60,000 farmers, homesteaders, and families!

Resources:

Upcoming Sourdough Startup Workshop: http://sourdoughstartup.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfarmerswithmichael Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingfarmers

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

247. Susan Koehler and Nathan Boone on Securing the Future of Farming Sep 05, 2023

How can land trusts support the next generation of farmers?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Susan Koehler and Nathan Boone. Susan is the Farmland Preservation Program Manager for the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust. She is working alongside Nathan who is a seasoned organic farmer and agricultural consultant. Together, with the help of the NWA Food System Initiative, they are providing support to new and beginner farmers through the preservation and enhancement of wild and farmed land.

Tune in to hear about their mission to preserve and enhance the land and farming community in Northwest Arkansas through the permanent protection of land.

You’ll hear:

What the NWA Land Trust does 1:52
About Nathan’s background and more about his involvement in the project 5:12
What their long-term intentions for the property are 9:58
About the types of farmers they are looking for 18:10

About the Guests:

Susan Koehler is the Farmland Preservation Program Manager for the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust located in Fayetteville AR. Susan works to help farmers who want to voluntarily protect their operations with agricultural focused conservation easements. In addition, her programs are geared to provide support to new and beginning farmers trying to access farmland. Susan works with a number of farms and local food advocates in her community through the NWA Food System Initiative.

Nathan Boone is a seasoned organic farmer with more than 20 years of experience in specialty vegetable, flower and grain production in New Mexico, California, Indiana and Southern Turkey. He also works as an agricultural consultant in beginning farm business planning and financial management, food safety training and transitioning to organic production.

Resources:

Website - The Farmland Lease Program Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nwalandtrust/

This week’s podcast episode is sponsored by Northwest Arkansas Land Trust.

Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.

Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed.

You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

246. Sam Oschwald Tilton on Mechanical Weed Control in the Midwest Aug 29, 2023

How much do you know about mechanical weeding?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Sam Oschwald Tilton who is the organizer of the upcoming Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day in Ohio. After earning his Master’s degree in Horticulture from Michigan State, Sam has worked many roles in vegetable farming from tool development to teaching on sustainable horticulture. He currently serves as a Direct Market Vegetable Educator offering education and support to Milwaukee-area vegetable growers.

Tune in to hear all about the latest in weeds and cultivation.

You’ll hear:

About Sam’s inspiration to get started in farming 1:40
How a farmer would get started in mechanizing their farm work 4:03
What is in Sam’s weed seed bank 8:56
About the roles of extension offices in farming 23:24
All about the upcoming Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day 30:22
About the many different weed control vendors that are attending the Field Day 35:09

About the Guest:

Sam Oschwald Tilton serves in a shared position between FairShare and UW-Madison Extension as a Direct Market Vegetable Educator offering education and support to Milwaukee-area vegetable growers. He also organizes the annual Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day.

Sam has worked in many roles on vegetable farms in Wisconsin – as a field hand, running his own CSA, and managing an educational farm in Sheboygan. He has a Master’s degree in Horticulture from Michigan State, where he researched organic weed control. And for three years, he was an instructor of Sustainable Landscape Horticulture at Lakeshore Technical College. Sam especially appreciates sharing his love of plants with children in his community.

Resources:

Field Day Website - 2023 Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day

FairShare CSA Coalition - https://www.csacoalition.org/about-us

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

245. Alex Miller on the Business of Regenerative Farming Aug 22, 2023

How do business acumen and regenerative farming practices shape tomorrow's agriculture?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Alex Miller who is the CEO and Chairman of the Board of Lick Skillet Farm in East Tennessee. Alex is a seventh-generation farmer and a chaired professor of Business at the University of Tennessee. Along with his children and grandchildren, he farms a 104-year old family farm using regenerative practices and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of farmers on business and sustainable agriculture.

Tune in to hear how Alex merges business lessons and his farming experience to mentor tomorrow's farmers.

You’ll hear:

About how their family farm got the name Lick Skillet 1:39
Alex’s unique farming journey 4:00
Why there is such a sustained loss of farms in the USA 6:23
About the products Lick Skillet Farm sells 16:07
How Alex sets up the different enterprises and crews on the farm 18:43
What Alex thinks are the most important parts of farming 33:47
If Alex could go back and change something about when he started in farming 44:20
What Alex’s favorite farming tool is 47:53

About the Guest:

Alex Miller, PhD, is a seventh-generation farmer and a chaired professor of business at the University of Tennessee. He farms a 104-yr old family farm with his children and grandchildren using regenerative practices and sells pasture-raised proteins direct to the public. If he’s not on the farm, he can usually be found at the University of Tennessee where he is a chaired professor in the Haslam College of Business. He holds degrees from Tennessee Tech, Dartmouth, and the University of Washington. He has been recognized as an outstanding conservationist and is a former Tennessee Cattleman of the Year.

Resources:

Website - https://lickskillet.farm/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lickskilletfarm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lickskilletfarmtn

244. Peter Hatch on the Revolutionary Garden at Monticello Aug 15, 2023

What layers of history unfurled in the restoration of Monticello's gardens?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Peter Hatch who has served as the Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. During his 35 years there, he managed 2,500 acres and the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden.

He also developed many educational programs on the practice of historic garden preservation and has written four books, including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello.

Tune in today to hear about Peter’s dedication to Monticello and the history of Thomas Jefferson’s love for gardening.

You’ll hear:

About what work Peter did that led to his role at Monticello 1:47
What the condition of Monticello was when Peter first arrived 5:40
How extensive was the garden restoration Peter undertook 13:57
About Jefferson’s process of restoring the soil 21:53
How Peter’s book was researched 27:52
About Thomas Jefferson’s true stance on slavery 43:45
How the Monticello gardens today compare to Jefferson’s day 50:38
What Peter would change (if anything) given the opportunity to restart his career 53:46

About the Guest:

Peter J. Hatch served as Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello for 35 years. He was responsible for the care of 2,500 acres owned by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation and managed the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden. Peter has lectured in 38 states on the gardens of Monticello and the history of garden plants. He has written four books including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello which won Book of the Year of the American Horticultural Society in 2012.

Resources:

Website: https://www.peterjhatch.com/

His book: A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden at Monticello

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

243. Jessica Hall on Unearthing the Heirloom Mum Movement Aug 08, 2023

What does it take to run a successful flower farm?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jessica Hall who is the Owner, Visionary, and Weeder-in-Chief at Harmony Harvest Farm. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, her farm is known for pioneering nationwide direct-to-consumer bouquet shipping. With over 15 years in the industry, Jessica is driven by the belief that #FreshFlowersRule and everyone can live a better life through flowers.

Tune in today to hear all about the evolution of Harmony Harvest Farm and how they enhance their community and thrive as a result!

You’ll hear:

How Jessica discovered her calling to be a flower farmer 2:20
When Jessica knew she wanted to switch gears from weddings 13:06
About the Harmony Harvest Victory Garden and how it’s doing today 27:30
More about The Mum Project 49:55
How Jessica keeps track of all their inventory and production 58:44
How Harmony Harvest keeps their mother plants in their greenhouse 1:05:40
What gives their farm true business freedom 1:08:02

About the Guest:

Jessica is the Owner, Visionary, and Weeder-in-Chief of Harmony Harvest Farm. Harmony Harvest Farm is known for pioneering nationwide direct-to-consumer bouquet shipping and its impressive collection of heirloom chrysanthemums. This year, Jessica and her team launched The Mum Project, a collaborative initiative to revitalize American agriculture through heirloom mums. With over 15 years in the industry, Jessica is driven by the belief that #FreshFlowersRule and everyone can live a better life through flowers.

Resources:

Website - https://www.hhfshop.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/harmonyhrvst/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/harmonyhrvst

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

242. Jason Contreras on Cancer, Courage and Content Creation Aug 01, 2023

Do you have dreams of going from city life to farm life?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jason Contreras of Sow the Land homestead and Youtube channel. In 2016, Jason and his family left their 9-5 work life in LA to start a small homestead in the mountains of North Carolina. Now in remission from cancer, Jason is on a journey to grow his family’s food, create an efficient homestead and share the whole process in the hopes of inspiring others.

Tune in today to hear about Jason and his journey in sowing the land!

You’ll hear:

What life was like for Jason back in LA 1:59
About their first crops in their California garden 17:52
What their farm looks like today 22:10
How Jason handles butchering their animals 24:30
What farmers should consider before offering educational workshops 32:20
About the expectations Jason sets for people attending their workshops 39:38
The biggest thing Jason has learned in his homesteading journey 40:52
What he would change given the chance to start over 42:55
About what a typical day looks like for Jason 44:28
The drive behind his Youtube channel 47:38

About the Guest:

In 2016 Jason and his family sold most of their belongings, left his office job and left the city in Los Angeles to start a small homestead in the mountains of North Carolina. They became passionate about growing their own food and knowing what exactly was in their food after Jason became diagnosed with cancer in 2010. Now in remission, they are on a journey to grow their own food and be healthy and happy. As they grow and learn new things they enjoy sharing the journey in hopes to inspire others.

Besides filming and editing for their Youtube channel Jason enjoys creating and making things in his wood shop. Jason is the jack of all trades taking care of the farm animals, building structures and striving to create the most efficient homestead.

Resources:

Website - https://sowtheland.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/sowtheland/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sowtheland/ Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@SowtheLand

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

241. Jill Ragan on Growing a Tiny but Mighty Farm Jul 25, 2023

What's holding you back from full-time farming?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jill Ragan, Owner of Whispering Willow Farm, located in Central Arkansas. Along with her husband, Nathan, Jill’s mission is to create an environment where people come together, foster sustainable practices, and build a resilient local food system. Jill teaches others how to plan and steward their own farms through her social media, online courses and her recently released book The Tiny But Mighty Farm.

Tune in today to hear all about Jill’s journey from working a 9-5 job to full-time farming!

You’ll hear:

How Jill got into farming 2:00
How Jill sources the farm’s soil 11:50
About what tools they use for production 15:06
What the Whispering Willow team looks like 18:06
What Jill would change if she could start the farm over again 21:52
About Jill’s motivation to write her book The Tiny But Mighty Farm 24:20
What the most common questions are that Jill has received 29:49
About Jill’s experience with selling to restaurants and breweries 32:20
Jill’s advice for an aspiring farmer 39:48

About the Guest:

Jill Ragan, along with her husband Nathan, are the owners of Whispering Willow Farm in central Arkansas. Along with their three daughters, their family is striving to stay connected to their local community by sharing food and flowers with those around them. Through various outlets like her growing YouTube channel and her new book The Tiny But Mighty Farm, Jill teaches about gardening and, most importantly, flourishing on your home farm no matter the size.

Resources:

Jill's book - The Tiny But Mighty Farm Website - www.thewhisperingwillowfarm.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/whisperingwillowfrm/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whisperingwillowfarm15 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@WhisperingWillowFarm

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

240. Dalia Monterroso on Why Everyone Should Have Chickens Jul 18, 2023

Do you have backyard chickens?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Dalia Monterroso who is the self-appointed President of Chickenlandia. She is a backyard chicken educator, entertainer, and first-time author of the recently released book Let’s All Keep Chickens. In this beginner and intermediate guide, Dalia aims to not only share the ins and outs of chicken keeping but also to bring people together through an age-old practice common to almost all of our ancestry.

Tune in today and hear all about Dalia’s poultry journey!

In this episode, you’ll hear::

When Dalia discovered her interest in chickens 1:30
About Dalia’s book and what it covers 6:10
Dalia’s advice for farmers who want to help people keep chickens 14:26
Dalia’s advice for those who are thinking about getting chickens for the first time 23:26
Where can you find out more about Dalia and Chickenlandia 25:30

About the Guest:

Dalia Monterroso, also known as The President of Chickenlandia, is a backyard chicken educator, entertainer, and author. Some years ago, Dalia decided to bring home ten little chicks and start a hobby. That hobby quickly grew into a full-feathered passion that she couldn’t stop talking about. Before long, she was part-owner of a farm store, teaching beginner chicken-keeping classes, and delivering seminars across Northwest Washington.

When she’s not teaching in-person classes or doing seminars, you can find her on the popular YouTube Channel Welcome to Chickenlandia, her top-rated podcast Bawk Tawk, or her online course "Backyard Chickens 101: A Chicken Course for Everyone." This year, Dalia published her first book Let’s All Keep Chickens!. In this beginner and intermediate guide, Dalia aims to not only share the ins and outs of chicken keeping but also to bring people together through an age-old practice common to almost all of our ancestry.

Resources:

Website : https://welcometochickenlandia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welcometochickenlandia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WelcomeToChickenlandia Welcome to Chickenlandia YouTube channel

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

239. Benina Montes on Regenerative Organic Almond Farming Jul 11, 2023

How much do you know about growing almonds?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Benina Montes of Burroughs Family Farms in the California Central Valley. Benina has worked tirelessly to help their multi-generational family orchard become the first Certified Regenerative Organic Almond Farm in the world.

Their farm’s focus continues to be bringing regeneratively-grown products like organic almonds, olive oil, cheeses and more directly to their customers while protecting the soil and water for generations to come.

Tune in to hear all about this Certified Regenerative Organic Almond Farm!

You’ll hear:

How Benina got into agriculture 2:00
About how almonds became a part of the farm 4:23
What it took for the Burroughs Family to become a Certified Regenerative Organic farm 10:59
About how their olive tree hedge rows work 14:20
More on how they produce and sell all of their products 15:10
About the different roles of the family on the farm 21:35
How all of the work gets done 25:45

About the Guest:

Benina Burroughs Montes was born and raised on the farm and knew in 6th grade that she wanted to come back to the family farming operation. She helped with the beef cattle and the dairy and was very active in both 4-H and Future Farmers of America.

Benina attended California Polytechnic State University and graduated with a Bachelors in Ag Business in 2001. Upon returning to the family farm, she started managing the 647 acres of almonds. In 2006, Burroughs Family Farms started the transition to organic production and by 2015 the entire farm was certified Organic. Benina met her husband Heriberto on the farm and the two were married in May of 2009. The commitment and dedication of Benina and Heriberto to soil health and regenerative farming practices has been further solidified and deepened with the addition of their four children, as they strive to leave a better world for future generations.

Resources:

Website - www.burroughsfamilyfarms.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/burroughs.family.farms/ Facebook - www.facebook.com/burroughsfamilyfarms

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

238. Pamela Tanner Boll on How the Solution is in the Soil Jul 04, 2023

How can regenerative agriculture put carbon back into the soil?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Pamela Tanner Boll who is the director of the regenerative-focused documentary To Which We Belong. This film highlights farmers and ranchers leaving behind conventional practices that are no longer profitable or sustainable. These unsung heroes are improving the health of our soil and sea to save their livelihoods — and our planet.

Tune in to hear about Pamela’s journey in making this award-winning film!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

What inspired Pamela to film To Which We Belong 1:39
More on the best practices to keep CO2 levels under control 4:22
About Pamela’s visits to farms and regenerative learning centers 10:58
Which nonprofits Pamela has done research with 14:24
What happens when you use cover crops to feed the carbon sugars 28:15
What Pamela’s advice is for a farmer who is unsure of where to start 36:17
How you can find out more about To Which We Belong 41:32
About what Pamela is working on next 43:48

About the Guest:

Pamela Tanner Boll is the Founder/CEO of Mystic Artists Film Productions. Her most recent film, To Which We Belong, highlights farmers and ranchers who are improving the health of their land with regenerative practices and helping to reverse climate change.

Pamela grew up in Parkersburg, WV and received a BA in English from Middlebury College and a Masters in Interdisciplinary Studies from Lesley University. She raised her three sons in Winchester, Massachusetts and now lives in Boulder, Colorado.

Resources:

Website: https://www.towhichwebelong.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/towhichwebelong

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towhichwebelongdoc/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ToWhichWeBelong

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

237. Jake Puckett on Holistic Land Management Jun 27, 2023

How much do you know about Silvopasture?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Jake Puckett of Crow Fly Farms in Marion, NC. His farm is a first-generation regenerative farm that raises 100% grass-fed and finished cattle and sheep (a.k.a. a “flerd”) as well as 100% Soy-Free Organic forest-raised hogs.

Hear more about how they sell their meat in bundles instead of individual cuts and how he’s transitioning his property into Silvopasture.

Tune in to hear about Jake’s dedication to the improvement of his land and the environment as a result.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Jake got started in farming 1:59
How Crow Fly got access to land as a first-generation farm 6:28
More about his market and how they sell 18:05
How they sell their meat in bundles instead of individual cuts 22:27
How they are converting their property to Silvopasture 30:32
More on how Jake runs his animals as a “flerd” 36:41
What Jake would change if he could start all over again 40:15
Who makes up the team at his farm 42:31
About the future of Crow Fly Farms 44:28

About the Guest:

Jake Puckett and his wife, Luna Mikos, of Crow Fly Farms run a diversified livestock operation in Marion, NC raising cattle, sheep, and hogs. His cattle and sheep are 100% grass fed and finished and his hogs are raised entirely in the forest and fed a soy-free organic feed. Jake is an Accredited Professional with the Savory Institute and is the Lead Ecological Monitor for the Robinia Institute. Their farm’s motto is Happy Animals, Healthy Ecosystem, Clean Meat.

Resources:

Website: www.crowflyfarms.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crowflyfarms/

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

236. Shane and Elizabeth Stuart on Diversifying Your Farm Jun 20, 2023

How do you know when you are ready to diversify?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Shane and Elizabeth Stuart of Crossing Creeks Farm. Situated on 125 acres in Shelbyville, TN, they have been practicing regenerative and holistic farming since 2012 with a focus on providing a diversified offering to their customers. From grass-fed meat and eggs to traditional foods like bone broth from their on-site commercial kitchen, they also host numerous guests through their RV sites and private open air cabins. Their farm even offers horseback riding lessons, a dog park, hiking trails and a seasonal cafe.

Join us today to hear all about this thriving generational farm!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Elizabeth and Shane got started in farming 1:51
Why they don’t believe beef is a good fit for their farm 5:03
What they do with RV’s and cabins 9:03
About who their customer base is 11:56
How their on-farm store started out 14:50
What their social media management looks like 21:58
How they source and manage vendors 27:15
What they would do differently if they had a do-over 28:42
About their farm team and their process for finding helpers 33:38
Their advice for aspiring farmers 39:50

About the Guest:

Shane and Elizabeth Stuart are passionate about producing great food for their family’s table and yours. With a commitment to producing pasture raised, organic fed and soy & corn free everything through regenerative farming practices, their first passion and focus is grass-fed meats and eggs. Their second passion is hosting guests on the farm with unique farm stays through our RV sites and private open air cabins.

Sharing the experience of really great food through our on-site commercial kitchen is their third passion. From ancestral, traditional foods like bone broth and lard to exceptional treats like Einkorn cinnamon rolls made with organic ingredients-eating nutrient rich foods doesn't have to be tasteless, boring or inconvenient and they hope to show you that through their kitchen offerings.

Resources:

Website: www.crossingcreeks.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/crossingcreekstn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossingcreeksfarm/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@crossingcreeksfarm

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

235. Ryan Tansom on Financial Forecasting for Your Farm Jun 13, 2023

Are you running your farm like the financial asset that it is?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Ryan Tansom who is the founder of Arkona and the Intentional Growth Podcast. He teaches business owners how to view and run their company like a financial asset through The Intentional Growth Framework, fractional CFO services and strategic planning. His mission is to help entrepreneurs enjoy their work, create wealth and make an impact.

Tune in to hear all about Ryan’s amazing entrepreneurial journey, how he accomplished what he’s accomplished, and where he’s growing next!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

The story behind his business name Arkona 1:35
How Ryan got started in entrepreneurship 3:30
About what Arkona provides 11:47
How Ryan goes about team building 21:00
How Ryan manages to get a team to be on the same page 25:22
What Ryan’s advice is for someone in a family business that is dealing with strife 30:03
What Ryan means by “equity growth” 41:23
Where you can find out more about Ryan and his work 46:54

About the Guest:

Ryan Tansom started his entrepreneurial career at his family business where he was the Executive VP and responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial strategy of the $21 Million company. By the age of 27, Ryan helped turn the company around and bring intentional focus to the right strategies which enabled it to be sold for 8 figures in 2014 to a local competitor.

Ryan took his experience and founded Arkona to create the Intentional Growth™ Framework which helps owners view – and run – their company like a financial asset through educational training and fractional CFO services. Ryan’s mission is to help entrepreneurs enjoy work, create wealth, and make an impact to make the journey “worth it”.

Ryan has personally guided over 400 entrepreneurs and leaders through the Intentional Growth™ Academy and also hosts the popular Intentional Growth™ podcast.

Resources:

Business Website: Arkona

Podcast: Intentional Growth Podcast

Ryan’s LinkedIn Profile

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

234. Shelley Katz on Plant Sap Analysis and Biological Nutrition Jun 06, 2023

Have you ever gone the extra step beyond soil tests and done plant sap analysis?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Shelley Katz, founder of Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm in Fort Myers, Florida. Shelley is a fruit and vegetable grower who has been dedicated to growing food ecologically since 2013 and started managing mixed vegetable farms in 2017. She also serves as a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture which works with growers to create customized crop programs combining biological and mineral nutrition products with regenerative practices to improve crop quality.

Tune in to hear about Shelley’s unique farming journey!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Shelley got into agriculture 1:43
About what kinds of crops Shelley worked on during her time in Hawaii 3:00
What the initial perennial cropping looked like after her move to Florida 9:43
How sap analysis works 14:38
How degraded the soils of the world are 24:00
What she’s learned while working with AEA 27:05
What the different enterprises are at Heart of Palms Ranch 32:44
What Shelley would’ve done differently if she were to restart her career 37:55
Where you can learn more about Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm 40:46

Previous episode mentioned in the show:

John Kempf on Advanced Biological Farming

About the Guest:

Shelley Katz is a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture and the founder of Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm. She started this journey through conservation internships on farms in Hawaii which then led to a career in vegetable farm management. She earned a Bachelor in Agriculture Science from Oregon State University, and has completed two Permaculture Design Certificates at OSU. In 2020, she founded Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm in Fort Myers, Florida. Heart of Palms grows perennial and subtropical produce using regenerative practices, grazes horses and cattle, and offers agritourism activities such as farmstays, camping, and tours.

She also serves as a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture helping farmers improve crop quality, yields, and disease and insect resistance.

Resources:

Farm Website: www.heartofpalmsranch.com

Advancing Eco Ag Website: https://www.advancingecoag.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelleyplants/

Facebook: Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

233. Helen Atthowe on Growing Beyond Organic with the Ecological Farm May 30, 2023

Can you imagine growing a beyond-organic garden?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, our guest is Helen Atthowe, who is a farmer, researcher, and celebrated pioneer in eco-organic methods. She is an advocate for minimizing and, yes, even stopping the use of certified-organic pest control materials and is encouraging farmers to rely on natural nutrient cycling for natural biological control.

Helen has a Masters in Horticulture and currently farms and does soil-building research on her new 5-acre farm in Western Montana. Her new book The Ecological Farm releases in June.

Tune in to hear all about these eco-organic methods, her new book, and more!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Helen got into farming 2:10
What kind of fruits Helen grew on the Oregon farm 5:13
How Helen successfully farms without pesticides 7:58
About how she handles the Plum Curculio Beetle 13:41
How Helen’s thinking on pest management has changed over the years 21:53
The downsides of even organic pest control methods and materials 23:07
Why Helen decided to write a book 27:28
About Helen’s experiences with Cucumber Beetles 33:18
More about the different topics of her new book 37:08
What type of habitat Helen recommends people start with 40:52

About the Guest:

Helen Atthowe is a farmer, researcher, and celebrated pioneer in eco-organic methods. Helen has a M.S. in Horticulture from Rutgers University and has worked in education and research at Rutgers, the University of Arkansas, and Oregon State University.

Helen and her late husband farmed a 211-acre organic farm in Eastern Oregon doing mainly orchard and vegetable production while also creating educational videos about their ecological farming methods. In 2012, Woodleaf Farm was recognized with a Steward of Sustainable Agriculture Award at the 32nd Annual EcoFarm Conference.

Since then, Helen has developed an almost closed loop farming system using chopped hay from some fields to fertilize vegetable and fruit fields. Helen is passionate about minimizing or stopping use of even certified-organic pest control materials, relying on natural nutrient cycling and on natural biological control.

Her new book on these eco-organic methods entitled The Ecological Farm releases on June 22nd.

Resources:

Website: http://woodleaffarm.org/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AgrarianDreams/videos

Helen’s new book: The Ecological Farm: A Minimalist No-Till, No-Spray, Selective-Weeding, Grow-Your-Own-Fertilizer System for Organic Agriculture

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

232. Chris Jones on the Precarious Future of Rural America May 23, 2023

Has rural farming and small town America changed where you live?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, our guest is Chris Jones who has recently served as a Research Engineer at the University of Iowa.

While there, he studied and wrote about the declining quality of water as a result of the changes in agriculture and the environment over the past century. He shares those thoughts and critiques through his blog which was released as a book entitled The Swine Republic on May 19th. Through authoring books, advocacy and research, few have attracted more attention to the causes and sources of farm-related pollution than Chris Jones.

Tune in to hear about Chris’ thoughts on how we can protect our environment and the future of rural America.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Chris got started in water quality research 1:51
About the water quality of the places Chris has researched 5:12
More on what happens when nitrate gets into the water 9:39
About Chris’ role throughout the majority of his career 13:11
How people in Iowa can give political pushback in support of cleaner water 21:00
What Chris’ new book is about and the future state of rural America 26:17

Products mentioned in the show:

Chris’ book The Swine Republic (or pre-order via Amazon)

About the Guest:

Chris Jones is a Research Engineer with IIHR-Hydroscience & Engineering at the University of Iowa. He holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Montana State University and a BA in chemistry and biology from Simpson College. Previous career stops include the Des Moines Water Works and the Iowa Soybean Association. As an avid outdoorsman, he enjoys fishing, bird watching, gardening, and mushroom hunting in both Iowa and Wisconsin. While he spends most of his time in Iowa City, he is especially fond of the Upper Mississippi River and the Driftless Area.

Resources:

Blog: https://riverraccoon.blogspot.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/RiverRaccoon Substack: https://riverraccoon.substack.com/

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

231. Evan Marks on Putting the Culture Back in Agriculture May 16, 2023

How can you create a purposeful farm culture in the middle of a city?

On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Evan Marks is joining us from Orange County, California. He is the Founder and Executive Director of The Ecology Center, which is not only a farm but a nonprofit education center that is passionate about putting the culture back into agriculture.

Located on a historic agricultural property that is today surrounded by urban sprawl, The Ecology Center is a 28-acre Regenerative Organic Certified™ farm and education center that serves as a hub for southern California’s ecological movement. With over 100,000 visitors a year, their farm produces everything from CSA boxes, flowers, and ferments to farm experiences, including educational classes and camps, an apprenticeship program, and weekly community dinners with world-class chefs.

Tune in to this episode to hear all about how this thriving non-profit farm and education center conducts business!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

How Evan ended up back in Orange County 1:48
The history of the property where The Ecology Center is located 4:08
About the soil type and fertility on the farm 9:32
More about the different teams and roles at the center 14:12
About their Regenerative Organic Certification 17:33
How they grew from 1 acre to 28 acres 25:29
More about their educational programs 32:32
Evan’s advice for a beginner farmer 33:33
The importance of pivoting your farm plans when things aren’t working 37:00
What Evan’s favorite tool is 47:05
About the Four Core Principles of The Ecology Center 50:55

About the Guest:

From studying Agroecology to working in Indigenous and traditional agricultural systems around the world to founding The Ecology Center in San Juan Capistrano in 2008, Evan Marks has dedicated his life to finding creative solutions for the most urgent problems facing our food system.

Resources:

Website: https://theecologycenter.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theecologycenter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theecologycenter/

This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit: GrowingFarmers.com today!

230. King Whetstone on the Importance of the Agricultural Census May 09, 2023

How much do you know about the Census of Agriculture?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re hosting King Whetstone who is the Regional Director of the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Northeastern Region. In his role, he is committed to providing timely, accurate, and useful statistics that will help those working in U.S. agriculture.

King will share about the Census of Agriculture which occurs every five years. The census provides the only source of consistent, comparable, and detailed agricultural data for every county in America. Prior to becoming the Regional Director, he served as the Director for the New York Field Office and the Deputy Director in the Hawaii Field Office.

Tune in to hear all about the importance of the Census of Agriculture and how you can contribute.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

About what the census of agriculture is 1:52
Who primarily uses the kind of confidential data that’s produced by the USDA 3:39
The average age of farmers 5:07
Why some people get multiple surveys 5:35
About how a farmer would take a USDA farmer survey if they’ve ever received one 8:17
What actions are needed if you aren’t actively farming your land, but you have CRP land 12:44
About how the data is processed 17:16

Websites mentioned in the episode:

USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Quick Stats database

About the Guest:

King Whetstone is the Director for USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service, Northeastern Region. He received his B.S. from Prairie View A&M University in Agricultural Economics in 1998. Prior to becoming the Regional Director, he served as the Director for the New York Field Office and the Deputy Director in the Hawaii Field Office.

In addition to leading the Northeastern Region, Mr. Whetstone is a regular contributor to Lancaster Farm News and officiates Division I college basketball. He currently resides in Mechanicsburg, PA with his wife April and daughter Shalyn.

Resources:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/usda_nass

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This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.

Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”

Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.

To learn more, visit GrowingFarmers today!

229. Jon and Bre Taylor on their Cross-Country Farm Tour Adventures May 02, 2023

Have you ever thought about selling it all and traveling the country?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are hosting Jon and Bre Taylor, a pair of digital nomads who are traveling the country in search of their future farm. They, along with their three kids, have visited many national parks and historical sites as they “roadschool” their children. However, their main goal has been to visit farms, attend hands-on homesteading conferences and ultimately search for the place they'll call home.

Tune in to hear about their journey from suburbia to full-time RV life and how their farm search has changed as a result of visiting various farms around the country.

In this episode, you’ll hear…

How Jon and Bre started their “digital nomad” life 2:31
Details about where they plan to start their farm 12:48
About what kind of animals they hope to get for their farm 18:25
What was the most surprising thing they discovered on their farm tours 23:18
More on their feelings about the various historical sites they visited along the way 31:11
About some of the homesteading festivals they’ve attended 33:45
Their goals for their future homestead 35:02
About their experiences with Harvest Hosts 36:20
Their advice for people looking to start on a similar journey 38:45

Places mentioned in the show:

The Farm at Mount Vernon
Frontier Culture Museum in Virginia
Whippoorwill Farm in South Carolina
Harvest Hosts - - Interested in becoming a member? Or a host?

About the Guest:

Jon and Bre Taylor have been traveling the country with their three kids in a 44' 5th wheel camper for over two years. Jon works remotely as an IT Director while Bre works for Growing Farmers and "roadschools" their kids (a.k.a homeschooling on the road).

They learn about history and geography as they travel to many national parks and sites but their main goal has been to determine where they ultimately want to live and start their own homestead. As they travel, they go on farm tours and attend hands-on homesteading conferences to learn more about what kind of small farm they will eventually have. They share about these travels on their Instagram.

Resources:

Instagram: http://instagram.com/letsliveupstream

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

228. Steven and Christine Bailey on Cultivating Connections Apr 25, 2023

How are you cultivating connections in your community?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are hosting Christine and Steven Bailey, founders of The Kindred Farm, in Santa Fe, TN. Together, Christine, an author and podcast host and Chef Steven a.k.a “The Korean Farmer”, are growing vibrant produce, flowers, and bees in a sustainable way that heals the land and grows into beautiful food.

They also offer sold-out farm-to-table dinners under the stars at their seasonal Kindred Dinners along with monthly Market Days and hands-on classes like Artisan Pizza for Beginners.

Shortly after seeing the documentary, Food, Inc. in 2009, Steven and Christine were inspired by farmer and author Joel Salatin of Polyface Farms in Virginia and began supporting the local farms movement. At the end of 2015, they sold their business, dismantled their lives of over a decade in urban Dallas and decided to move to middle Tennessee, just south of Nashville.

Tune in to hear the fine details about how they do popular farm table dinners that sell out in a day and get the word out to more kindred spirits in their area!

You’ll hear:

How Steven and Christine got started in farming 2:02
The different enterprises on The Kindred Farm 4:26
The staff and management at The Kindred Farm 14.28
Their philosophy on marketing their farm 16:23
The story behind Christine's book The Kindred Life 26:10
How they know when it's time to shift their focus 35:54
The "fun" endeavor they tried that actually turned highly profitable 38:41
Steven and Christine's advice for someone just getting started in farming 46:06
Their favorite farming tool 53:58

Products mentioned in the show:

About the Guest:

At Kindred Farm, cultivating connection is the heart of everything they do. They are Christine and Steven Bailey - an author/podcaster and a chef. On their 17 acres in Santa Fe, Tennessee, they are raising vibrant produce, flowers, and bees in a sustainable way that heals the land and grows into beautiful food.

They also gather the community at long farm tables under the stars at their seasonal Kindred Dinners. They believe life is meant to be shared in community, and they create unique, handmade artisan goods for The Kindred Farm Store with that in mind.

Kindred Farm is a place where you can come and be nourished: find connection in the land, in community, and around the table. Slow down, exhale, and then take some “kindred” home with you, wherever you go.

Resources:

Website: https://www.thekindredfarm.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thekindredfarm Instagram: http://instagram.com/thekindredfarm Sign up for their newsletter here.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

227. Reid Allaway on Going Electric with Your Farm Equipment Apr 18, 2023

Curious about how to go electric with your farm equipment?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Reid Allaway is joining us from Quebec, Canada. He is the Director of Infrastructure and Machinery at Ferme Coopérative Tourne-Sol which has 9 members and about 15 employees who are all passionate about healthy food, gardening, seed production, and ecology.

You’ll want to hear how Reid has converted many of the machines on their farm to electric while also spearheading their Elec-truck conversion campaign.

By working together and following agro-ecological principles, the team has succeeded in creating a democratic, diverse, and sustainable company. Their mission is to generate agricultural products of the highest quality that respect the standards of organic farming and the principles of agro-ecology; to build strong community ties in their region; and promote organic agriculture as a viable food production system.

Tune in today to hear all about this French Canadian farmer’s unique approach to his profession!

You’ll hear:

How Reid got into farming 2:38
How Reid got into the tooling and electrification aspect of farming 9:56
Why rear-mount cultivation is not as effective 16:49
When electric equipment stops being practical 34:16
The challenging aspects of putting together electric wheel drive devices 45:09
The crops they are growing with walk-behind cultivation 47:18
Reid’s favorite farming tool 1.02:47

About the Guest:

Reid Allaway is a farmer, tinkerer and dad working at Tourne-Sol Co-operative Farm in les Cèdres QC with his wife and a multitude of co-workers and friends. Being part of a coop farm has allowed Reid to pursue his interests in appropriate technology for farmers and farming down the avenues of collaborative design and tool building and also the electrification of tools and machines for small farms. Reid also works with Thiessen Tillage Equipment on tool design and distribution of appropriate tools for small farms.

Resources:

Website: https://www.fermetournesol.qc.ca/en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reid.allaway Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reid_in_qc/ Farm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fermetournesol/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

226. Reese Jones on the Social Enterprise of Community Victory Gardens Apr 11, 2023

How can farmers serve their communities in unique ways?

In this podcast, we’re hosting Reese Jones, Co-owner and Manager of Jones Family Farm, located in Edgewood, Maryland. As far back as the 1950s, the Jones Family has been growing award-winning fruits and vegetables for both Baltimore and Harford County.

They have remained the first choice grower for those who wish to buy directly from the farmer. Today, the farming operation has grown extensively to accommodate greater retail selections and services, with numerous retail greenhouses for plants and flowers, two farm markets, pick your own strawberries, and Christmas trees and wreaths.

Tune in to hear about the Jones Family Farm and Reese’s continued work as a social entrepreneur for Victory Gardens to promote the need for cultural individuality and a life centralized on Faith, Family, and Plants!

You’ll hear:

What is social enterprise 1:54
The history behind Jones Family Farm 3:36
The kind of experiences they provide on their school tours 9:28
When does the farming season typically start on their farm 14:02
How their CSA works 17:56
A look at their farm team 29:52
The beginning of Victory Gardens 31:55
Reese’s involvement with the Farm Bureau 36:29
Reese’s favorite farming tool 39:40

About the Guest:

Growing up on a retail oriented vegetable farm in southern Harford County, Reese Jones is currently a co-owner and manager of Jones Family Farm, as well as president of Victory Gardens, which is a social enterprise aimed at growing culturally relevant food for populations in the Baltimore/Harford vicinity.

Resources:

Website: https://jonesfamilyfarmmd.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonesfamilyfarmmd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jones_produce_md/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

225. David Greenberg on Greens, Greenhouses, and Growing a Business Apr 04, 2023

Do you have farming questions?

This podcast will make you want to pull up a chair and take notes. It is a conversation between two experienced farmers about greenhouses (including climate battery greenhouses), creating a holistic farm model and how greens play an important role, dealing with water and soil issues, and taking a CSA from a picnic in the park to farmers market levels of volume for a profitable mid-week retail store.

Michael Kilpatrick is joined by David Greenberg, owner of Abundant Acres Farm, located in Hants County, Nova Scotia. Abundant Acres is an organic farming operation situated on the tidal Cogmagun River. It consists of a periodically flooded salt marsh, upland fields, and woodlands.

Abundant Acres’ first priority is to grow the best tasting and most healthy food for their own table and for their customers. They are also developing, testing, and sharing designs for machinery and techniques that make farming more efficient and profitable.

Tune in to hear how a field trip at the age of 7 instilled a life-long passion in David for farming. Join us today to hear all about it!

You’ll hear:

How David got started in farming 3:22
David’s farming education 10:57
Staff on Abundant Acres Farm 16:54
How they keep the soil fertilized 34:34
The scoop with their climate battery 42:07
Overview of the farm’s retail store 49:46

About the Guest:

David farms with his wife, Jen, and many wonderful employees at Abundant Acres in Centre Burlington, Nova Scotia.

Growing on six acres, with half an acre under cover, they supply fresh vegetables year round from their two Climate Battery greenhouses.

Their produce is sold at their Halifax store, The Warehouse Market.

Resources:

Website: https://abundant-acres.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantacresns/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

224. Ian and Rachel Harding on Farming Through Crisis Mar 28, 2023

How do you manage through a crisis and what lessons come from such a time?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Ian and Rachel Harding of Wet Knot Farms, located in Marietta, South Carolina. Ian and Rachel started their farm to get back to nature, and to raise their three boys playing in the dirt and eating healthy, tasty food.

Now their mission is to cultivate community by bettering health through sustainable agricultural practices. Folks love how long Wet Knot’s salads last in the fridge and how some veggies never even make it out of the car before the kids gobble them up.

Join us today to hear all about their unique journey in the farming world!

You’ll hear:

What is the location of Wet Knot Farms and what is the historical significance behind it? 2:04
What kinds of flowers and vegetables do they grow? 5:58
What are their favorite flowers to grow? 8:16
Where do they sell their products? 10:54
How has their flower bar worked out for them so far? 17:31
What are yearly cycles on the farm like? 23:24
Why did Ian have brain surgery, and how did it impact their farm and family? 29:16
What would they say the most impactful outcome of this situation has been? 41:56

About the Guests:

Ian and Rachel Harding started Wet Knot Farms to get back to nature and raise their boys on a farm where they could play in the dirt that also supplied them with healthy, tasty foods. While farming came with many lessons, a sudden need for brain surgery taught them even more. Ian says, “Each day is a gift, and I hope I’m ready to receive each one as such. I hope to savor the joy and to grow from the pain that comes each new day.”

Resources:

Website: https://www.wetknotfarms.com/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsors!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

223. Kelly Shepherd on First Generation Regenerative Farming Mar 21, 2023

What ways can your farm bring more value to your community?

In this week’s podcast, we’re hosting Kelly Shepherd, Co-Owner of What the Farm, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. What the Farm is focusing on the health and vitality of the land through regenerative farming, and their mission is simple: serve the soil, serve the animals, and serve the community.

They recently expanded their operations and opened What The Farm Store so they can share farm to table with others. What the Farm aims to provide local families with an affordable way to bring home food free of chemicals and hormones, and they do so swimmingly!

Come hear all about how they do it in this episode.

You’ll hear:

What prompted Kelly to shift from business coaching to farming 2:03
The first sales outlets for the farm 6:05
Classes the farm offers to homeschoolers 10:09
How Kelly handles the farm’s meat CSA 17:39
What What the Farm does with the Savory Institute 21:20
What Kelly would do differently if she could go back to the beginning of her farm 31:56
Kelly’s favorite farming tool 33:30

About the Guest:

Kelly Shepherd is the co-owner of What The Farm, a regenerative farm that specializes in chicken, pork, lamb, and beef in Virginia Beach, VA. With a background in business coaching, her primary focus is helping farmers achieve profitability through agritourism, education, and subscription-based sales. Kelly believes that the only way to grow the sustainable farm movement is to make it a win/win for both farmers and consumers.

Resources:

Website: https://whatthefarmlife.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhatTheFarmVa

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatthefarmva/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsors!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

222. Deirdre Birmingham on Organic Cider Farming Mar 14, 2023

Do you know what it takes to grow specialty apples to make organic apple cider and brandy?

In this Thriving Farmer podcast, we’re joined by Deirdre Birmingham, Co-Founder of The Cider Farm, located in Madison, Wisconsin.

The Cider Farm grows true cider apples organically for the purposes of making The Cider Farm brand of (hard) ciders and apple brandy. They are arguably the only orchard in the US that started for this purpose.

The Cider Farm’s products are not intended to compete with the mass-market ciders or brandies. Rather, they use special ingredients, small batch attention, and handcrafting to provide a complex and unique flavor experience. Their standards are inspired by European and American traditions. The Cider Farm staff is dedicated to their art and to providing folks with something special.

Tune in today to hear how this fascinating apple farm operates!

You’ll hear:

How Deirdre got into farming 2:03
The struggles and things Deidre has learned from producing quality apples 8:54
How different apple varieties are harvested differently 16:45
How long apples are fermented for 26:32
Size of the current Cider Farm team 29:32
Percentage of the farm’s products sold in their tasting room as opposed to what they ship across the nation 35:13
How the business is managed, and what Deirdre would change as the business was being built 37:44
How The Cider Farm has driven traffic into their tasting room 45:19
Deirdre’s favorite farming tool 48:27

About the Guest:

Deirdre Birmingham co-owns the business with her husband, John Biondi, and she manages The Cider Farm in Wisconsin. They are a 166-acre farm, including an 18-acre certified organic cider apple orchard. Deirdre and John started the orchard in 2003 by taking a class on grafting. They wanted to get the English and French tannic apple varieties for the purpose of fermenting their apple juice to ciders and apple brandy. While Deirdre has three degrees in agriculture, she never took a class on horticulture, nor did she grow up on a farm. But she and John have learned from hands-on experience and research how to build and run a successful cider farm business.

Resources:

Website: https://www.theciderfarm.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theciderfarm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_cider_farm/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement that provides an add-on certification held by over 1,000 certified organic, family-owned operations across North America. Real Organic Project strives to uplift farms working within the spirit, not just the letter, of organic principles. Real Organic certified farmers use practices that are centered around the foundational organic principles of soil-based crop production and pasture-based livestock agriculture. To remain accessible to all types of farmers, Real Organic Project fundraises year round to keep this certification available at no cost to farmers.

You can apply today at realorganicproject.org/thrivingfarmer.

221. Matt Carr on Scaling Your Farm Business Mar 07, 2023

How has your farm evolved and what changes have you made to scale your business?

On this week’s Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Matt Carr, Owner of Linden Lane Farms, a family operated farm located in Krestova, Canada. Linden Lane Farms has been in operation since 1978.

The farm started as five acres of land used to produce food for the Carr family. Eventually, the farm grew onto a new 150-acre property primarily used for raising and processing livestock.

In the early 2000s, new meat regulations and policies severely limited the productivity of the farm and pushed them out of the local niche, leading to many tough years.

Around 2010, grandson Matt became seriously interested in horticulture, growing a garden and propagating ornamental plants at the farm. Matt currently manages the daily operations of the farm, as well as the weekly farmer’s markets.

Join us to hear all about this Canadian farm’s unique approach to their generational farm!

You’ll hear:

What Linden Lane Farms was like in the beginning 3:00
What initially got Matt into farming 5:53
The farm’s sales model 8:34
Products are they shipping nationwide 13:18
The story behind the farm’s name 18:47
Systems and equipment used on the farm 25:01
Matt’s other business 36:41
Matt’s favorite farming tool 45:59

About the Guest:

Matt is the owner and production manager of Linden Lane Farms, a diversified organic market garden and nursery that focuses on production, research, and education. Along with managing the farm’s day to day operations in Krestova, Matt is the lead agrologist for Cultivate Horticulture, which provides innovative tools, technology, and equipment, as well as horticultural agronomy consultation, for both hobbyists and commercial producers. He has a passion for farming and innovation, and is on a mission to inspire the next generation of growers faced with the future challenges of food production.

Resources:

Website: www.lindenlanefarms.ca

Facebook: www.facebook.com/lindenlanefarms and www.facebook.com/cultivatehort.ca

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lindenlanefarms

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

220. Sasha Miller on Permaculture and Local Food Systems Feb 28, 2023

What Sasha Learned Implementing Permaculture and Starting a Farm Store

In this Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Sasha Miller, Co-Founder of Purplebrown Farmstead. Sasha and her husband, Jimmy, started Purplebrown Farmstead with their two kids, Ohlen & Ivan, in 2016. Sasha is the full-time farmer, but everyone has their integral role.

Purplebrown applied the permaculture design process to make choices for what, how, when, and why they grow and do what they do. They are growing a very diversified bunch of perennial goodies in their orchard, like mushrooms, perennial vegetables, berries, flowers, and herbs. They also raise poultry for meat and eggs, and pork, as essential parts of this resilient system.

Tune in to hear about Sasha’s unique journey into the farming universe!

You’ll hear:

How Sasha got started in farming 1:36

Changes at Purplebrown Farmstead as the farm has progressed 3:59

How Sasha was introduced to Purplebrown’s vendors 8:27

How Sasha goes about staffing for the farm and the store 11:16

Marketing at Purplebrown 14:18

What the farm produces 15:34

How Sasha set up the farm’s orchard 24:47

The types of ducks Purplebrown uses 28:54

The breeds of pigs that have been working well at Purplebrown 34:01

About the Guest:

Sasha started Purplebrown Farmstead with her husband in 2016, as part of the Countryside Initiative Program, in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It is a 12-acre, certified organic, diversified farm, designed and managed using permaculture principles. Main products include pork, mushrooms, perennial vegetables, fruit, eggs, and more.

Resources:

Website: www.purplebrownfarmstead.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purplebrownfarmstead

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purplebrownohio/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

219. Lindsey Lusher Shute on GrownBy, the Farmer-Owned Marketplace Feb 21, 2023

What tools do you use to reach more customers?

In this Thriving Farmer podcast, we’re joined by Lindsey Lusher Shute: farmer, co-founder and former executive director of the National Young Farmers Coalition, and co-owner of Hearty Roots Community Farm.

An Ohio native, Lindsey first developed her love of farming on her grandfather’s land in the rolling hills of Appalachia. As executive director of Young Farmers, Lindsey grew the organization from a few volunteer farmers to a nationwide network with 40 chapters in 39 states and a grassroots base of over 120,000.

Lindsey edited and authored nine reports for the coalition, including Building a Future with Farmers: Challenges Faced by Young, American Farmers and a Strategy to Help Them Succeed.

Lindsey is the co-founder of Farm Generations Cooperative, the makers of GrownBy, the Farmer-Owned Marketplace.

Tune in to hear all about Lindsey’s remarkable and unique journey in the farming world!

You’ll hear:

How Lindsey got started in farming 2:16
How she got the idea to start the business 8:08
Overview of Hearty Roots Community Farm 13:16
What it was like for Lindsey to create a software product 25:19
New features in GrownBy 3.0 31:54
Next steps for GrownBy 39:46

About the Guest:

Lindsey Lusher Shute is the co-founder of Farm Generations Cooperative, the makers of GrownBy. GrownBy is the first cooperatively-owned sales app for farms. Before co-founding Farm Generations Cooperative, Lindsey co-founded the National Young Farmers Coalition and led the organization as Executive Director for a decade. Under her leadership, Young Farmers influenced two farm bills and won change for farmers on the state and federal levels. Lindsey and her husband Ben are the owners of Hearty Roots Community Farm, an organic vegetable farm and CSA, in the Hudson Valley of New York.

Resources:

Website: https://grownby.app/ and https://www.farmgenerations.coop/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmgenerationscoop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmgenerationscoop/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

218. Eric Sannerud on Hop Farming Feb 14, 2023

What Should a Small Farmer Know When Starting with Hops?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Eric Sannerud, Hop Evangelist and Farm Advocate from Minnesota. Eric was co-founder and CEO of Mighty Axe Hops, Minnesota's largest hop farm. Eric started Mighty Axe Hops in 2013 and has since grown the farm from .25 acre to 80 acres of production. Mighty Axe was the industry leader in Minnesota hops working with commercial brewers, USDA programs, local government and economic development, and University researchers to develop hops as a viable local crop. Mighty Axe closed in 2020 due to tremendous storm damage. Eric is currently a hop consultant, a farm advocate, and a speaker.

Tune in to our show today to listen to the fascinating details surrounding Eric’s hop journey!

You’ll hear:

What led Eric to becoming a hop expert 2:39
What makes the hop plant special 4:05
What the average hop plant can produce for you 11:58
Eric’s sales outlets while growing hops 17:12
What a small farmer should do when starting with hops 19:06
The weather event that set Eric substantially back 22:15
The size of Eric’s team on the farm 34:58
Eric’s role at GrownBy 43:53

About the Guest:

Eric R. Sannerud is a hop evangelist. Eric first fell in love with hops as co-founder and farmer-CEO of Mighty Axe Hops, a fully integrated hop farm and marketing company which grew and sold 80 acres of hops in Minnesota. He then went on to be the Hop Brand Manager for Brewers Supply Group. He is now a freelance hop consultant for brewers, farmers, and marketers across the United States.

Resources:

Website: https://www.ericrsannerud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eric.sannerud/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsors!

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

217. Anne-Marie Bilella on Foraging as a Lifestyle Business Feb 07, 2023

In this episode, we’re tuning in to Thriving Farmer Value-Added Summit speaker Anne-Marie Bilella, aka the Forager Chick, of Bella Vista Farm, located in Monroe, Georgia. Bella Vista is a local, private farm that specializes in herbal products and remedies and homemade breads.

Anne-Marie is the farmer, baker, and medicine maker of the farm. Anne-Marie helps homesteaders and preppers identify and use wild plants and mushrooms for food and medicine.

She spent most of her career as a self-taught professional, until 2014, when she attended a 10-month intensive herbal studies course at the BotanoLogos School of Herbal Studies. Additionally, she is the author of Wild Eating With The Forager Chicks.

We’ll discuss her work with herbs, mushrooms, berries, and more in this segment of the Value-Added Summit!

You’ll hear:

How Anne-Marie got into the herbal world 3:53

What Goldenrod flowers are used for 11:03

The kinds of oils used to infuse Goldenrod 11:49

Cost of getting to the end product 14:00

What Anne-Marie is doing with Hawthorn berries/sumac 15:58

What she’s doing with mushrooms 19:06

How Anne-Marie implements seasonings 25:05

The inspiration that led Anne-Marie to write her books 33:21

How she preserves excess stock 36:52

The first thing someone getting started in foraging needs to learn 37:58

Anne-Marie’s biggest surprise in her foraging journey 39:53

About the Guest:

Anne-Marie is the farmer, the baker and the medicine-maker at Bella Vista Farm in Georgia. She is skilled in herbal medicine, wild weeds, mushrooms, and products made from herbs and mushrooms. Anne-Marie was self-taught in her herbal studies until 2014 when she completed a 10-month hands-on intensive herbal course with Patricia Kyritsi Howell of BotanoLogos School of Herbal Studies. She is certified as a Wild Mushroom Forager and Seller as well as an instructor for the Wild Mushroom Safety Course with Mushroom Mountain.

Currently, Anne-Marie creates her own herbal products with her Forager Chick line and teaches homesteaders and preppers about herbal medicine, medicinal mushrooms, and wild plant identification. She is a homesteader, book author, and writer for her own blog and has written articles for other blogs.

Resources:

Value Added Summit: https://www.farmsummits.com/ Website: https://www.foragerchick.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BellaVistaFarmInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/foragerchick/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsors!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app.

GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all.

As a cooperative, farmer success is our #1 priority. We are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms.

Startup is free, and our pricing is transparent and affordable. Our cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly.

Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% their first three months on GrownBy. Just email us at Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

216. Sandor Katz on The Revival of Fermentation Jan 31, 2023

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by fermentation expert and best-selling author, Sandor Katz. Sandor is the author of popular books such as The Art of Fermentation, Wild Fermentation, Fermentation Journeys, and more.

Sandor’s interest in fermentation grew out of his overlapping interests in cooking, nutrition, and gardening. Since 2003, Sandor has taught hundreds of workshops demystifying fermentation and empowering people to reclaim this important transformational process in their kitchens. The New York Times calls him “one of the unlikely rock stars of the American food scene.”

Take a front row seat to this value-packed interview from the Thriving Farmer Value-Added Summit today!

You’ll hear:

How Sandor got started in fermentation 2.31
What can realistically be fermented 5:26
What are some unusual foods for fermentation Sandor has seen being fermented that actually turned out well 19:07
What prompted Sandor to write Fermentation Journeys 26:28
Sandor’s favorite ferment 32:32
Sandor’s favorite fermenting tool 33:39

About the Guest:

Sandor's interest in fermentation grew out of his overlapping interests in cooking, nutrition and gardening. It started with sauerkraut. He found an old crock buried in the barn, harvested cabbage from their garden, chopped it up, salted it, and waited. He says, "That first kraut tasted so alive and powerfully nutritious! Its sharp flavor sent my salivary glands into a frenzy and got me hooked on fermentation."

Since 2003 when his book, Wild Fermentation, was published, Sandor has taught hundreds of workshops demystifying fermentation and empowering people to reclaim this important transformational process in their kitchens. The Art of Fermentation (2012), received a James Beard award and was a finalist at the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

Resources:

Value Added Summit: https://www.farmsummits.com/ Website: https://www.wildfermentation.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandor.katz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandorkraut/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Harvest Hosts provides a cost-free opportunity for small businesses and farms to increase revenue simply by inviting self-contained RV members to stay one night on their property. In return, Members patronize or donate to the business.

The program is free for farms to join and to share their offerings. There is no requirement to have hook-ups or services, just a place to park one RV.In exchange for the overnight stay, Harvest Hosts Members are encouraged to make a purchase of at least $20 at each host location they visit. Based on a recent survey, Harvest Hosts Members spend an average of $50 per night at each host location they visit. Well-established Hosts are reporting an average of $15,000 in additional annual revenue.

Become a Host

For more information on how you can become a Host, contact Harvest Hosts at sales@harvesthosts.com Be sure to mention the Thriving Farmer Podcast on your application!

Become a Member

If you have an RV and are interested in joining as a Member, visit HarvestHosts.com today.

215. Why Every Farmer Needs To Be Value-Adding Jan 24, 2023

In this podcast, we’re sharing one of our amazing guests from the Value-Added Summit, Joel Salatin of Polyface Farm, located in Swoope, Virginia. Joel talks to us about the benefits of and techniques involved with an effective, game-changing implementation of a value-added strategy on farms. Joel Salatin is an American farmer, lecturer, and author.

Joel’s philosophy of farming emphasizes healthy grass on which animals can thrive in a symbiotic cycle of feeding. He has authored twelve books including Folks, This Ain't Normal, You Can Farm, Salad Bar Beef, and Everything I Want To Do Is Illegal.

Join us to hear this riveting conversation with Michael and Joel from the Value-Added Summit!

You’ll hear:

What “Value-Added” means to Joel 2:18
Why farmers start practicing value-added 6:01
Mindset shifts that are necessary to start going forward with effective marketing 13:37
Agriculture entertainment, or “agritainment” Polyface does 34:08
What ended up being a value-added dud that Joel anticipated being a big success 41:33
Great value-added experiences and/or products Joel has come across in his travels 46:51
What the future holds for value-added, and what farmers should be focusing on 1.05:42
Advice Joel has for farmers who are wanting to take their farm to the next level but find it difficult taking the next step 1.09:33

About the Guest:

Joel Salatin calls himself a Christian libertarian environmentalist capitalist lunatic farmer. Others who like him call him the most famous farmer in the world, the high priest of the pasture, and the most eclectic thinker from Virginia since Thomas Jefferson.

With a room full of debate trophies from high school and college days, 12 published books, and a thriving multi-generational family farm, he draws on a lifetime of food, farming, and fantasy to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.

He co-owns, with his family, Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia. Featured in the New York Times bestseller Omnivore’s Dilemma and award-winning documentary Food Inc., the farm services more than 5,000 families, 50 restaurants, 10 retail outlets, and a farmers’ market. A frequent guest on radio programs and podcasts serving preppers, homesteaders, and foodies, Salatin’s practical, can-do solutions tied to passionate soliloquies for sustainability offer everyone food for thought and plans for action. The rare combination of prophet and practitioner makes him both a must-read and must-hear in a time desperate for integrity, leadership, and example.

Resources:

Website: https://polyfacefarms.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Polyfacefarm/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polyfacefarm/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Harvest Hosts provides a cost-free opportunity for small businesses and farms to increase revenue simply by inviting self-contained RV members to stay one night on their property. In return, Members patronize or donate to the business.

The program is free for farms to join and to share their offerings. There is no requirement to have hook-ups or services, just a place to park one RV.In exchange for the overnight stay, Harvest Hosts Members are encouraged to make a purchase of at least $20 at each host location they visit.

Based on a recent survey, Harvest Hosts Members spend an average of $50 per night at each host location they visit. Well-established Hosts are reporting an average of $15,000 in additional annual revenue.

Become a Host

For more information on how you can become a Host, contact Harvest Hosts at sales@harvesthosts.com Be sure to mention the Thriving Farmer Podcast on your application!

Become a Member

If you have an RV and are interested in joining as a Member, visit HarvestHosts.com today.

214. Liz Riffle on Holistic Bison Farming Jan 17, 2023

Do you farm with livestock? There may be a more humane way to harvest these animals. Tune in to hear about Riffle Farms’ holistic approach to managing and processing their bison.

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast we’re joined by Liz Riffle, Owner and Operator of Riffle Farms, located in Terra Alta, West Virginia. Riffle Farms raises grass-fed and finished bison tucked in the hills of Preston County, where the grasses are cool and the snow is heavy.

Liz is a U.S Navy Nurse Corps veteran. She runs the farm as her husband, Jimmie, is currently still serving on active-duty as a Navy Nurse Corps Nurse Practitioner.

Riffle Farms is part of a growing movement to facilitate the large-scale regeneration of the world’s grasslands and the livelihoods of their inhabitants, through holistic management led by The Savory Institute. Riffle Farms works closely with a local Savory Hub, The Robinia Institute, to support the movement, achieve the same mission, and help educate others. Join us to hear how Riffle Farms helps feed our nation with their holistic, humane, and regenerative approach!

You’ll hear:

How Liz went from Navy veteran to farmer 1:48
Why Riffle Farms started with bison 4:43
How Riffle Farms does their field harvesting 10:24
Where and how Riffle Farms sells their meat 13:38
How Liz found out about and started working with Steward 20:42
How Liz decides when and how to buy into a bison herd 29:22
Systems that have been particularly effective (from a business perspective) to set up on the farm 35:51
Systems Liz would set up sooner given the opportunity for a do-over 37:32
What Liz anticipates for the farm’s future 44:09

About the Guest:U.S. Navy veteran Liz Riffle raises grass-fed and finished bison in West Virginia. Riffle Farms was the first commercial bison operation in the state, and also the first to field harvest animals for state certified commercial sale. Liz is passionate about meat transparency and humane practices.

Resources:

Website: www.rifflefarms.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rifflefarms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rifflefarmsbison/

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

213. Matt McWilliams on Affiliate Marketing Jan 10, 2023

Are you looking to increase your income and take your business to the next level? If so, you will want to listen in to today’s guest, who is an expert in affiliate marketing and a successful coach for small business owners.

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re taking a bit of a different approach with Matt the Affiliate Guy (Matt McWilliams), author of Internet Business Insights: Lessons Learned and Strategies Used by 101 Successful Internet-Based Entrepreneurs, and his new book, Turn Your Passions into Profits.

Matt started his first online business in 2001 at the age of 22 and today is one of the leading online business teachers. In the 19 years between his first venture and living out his passion and purpose, he’s worked with more than 300,000 online business owners while running affiliate programs and consulting on product launches and book launches for world renowned entrepreneurs.

Today, he coaches other small business owners, solopreneurs, and wantrepreneurs on how to start the right online business, scale it, and eventually go full-time with it.

Join us to hear how Matt accomplished all that he has, and how you can employ affiliate marketing to boost your business to the next level!

You’ll hear:

What affiliate marketing is and opportunities farmers have with affiliate marketing 2:06
The Halo Effect and how you can use it to your advantage 10:55
How to stand out in your market 15:39
How to ensure you get paid what you’re worth 24:48
How you can claim the leadership aspect of your niche 36:53

About the Guest:

If you want to grow your influence, have a bigger impact, and make more money in the process, this guest is your go-to guy.

Entrepreneurs and companies such as Tony Robbins and Dean Graziosi, Shark Tank's Kevin Harrington, Stu McLaren, Adidas, Ryan Levesque, Brian Tracy, Lewis Howes, Rich Schefren, Shutterfly, Michael Hyatt, and Jeff Walker have trusted Matt McWilliams to run their affiliate programs and coach their affiliate teams.

Today he helps online business owners and brands, small and large, to leverage the power of partners to grow their businesses. He teaches you how to make money as an affiliate and how to work better with affiliates.

Resources:

Website: https://www.mattmcwilliams.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MATTMCWILLIAMSCONSULTING/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MattMcWilliams2

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Real Organic Project invites you to join 12 incredible organic farmers along with keynote speaker Paul Hawken for a day of Ted-style talks on January 17, 2023 at the Asilomar Conference Grounds in Pacific Grove, California. Farmers will share their experiences of trying to survive within a dysfunctional, ever-consolidating organic marketplace, and the solutions that Real Organic Project brings. You can find your in-person or virtual livestream ticket at RealOrganicSymposium.org/ecofarm

212. Rob Dube on The 10 Disciplines for Entrepreneurs Dec 27, 2022

Do you feel burned out? Could you benefit from having more balance and less stress and overwhelm in your life?

If so, you will want to listen to this episode to learn the tools to have a more meaningful life, with more time and energy.

In this week’s Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is hosting Rob Dube, Co-founder and Co-CEO of imageOne, an award-winning, people-focused company whose purpose is to provide genuine care to everyone, every day, every time.

imageOne specializes in managed print, document automation, and other office workflow services.

Rob is a mindful business leader whose first venture was selling blow pops out of his high school locker.

He has been a daily meditator for over 15 years and is the author of best-selling book, donothing: The most rewarding leadership challenge you'll ever take, the host of the Leading with Genuine Care podcast, and founder of the Leading with Genuine Care Leadership Retreat. He is a Senior Contributing writer for Forbes and has also written for EO Octane and Thrive Global.

Join us to hear all about how Rob juggles all of these ventures.

You’ll hear:

How nutrition factors into Rob’s day-to- day life 1:56
Rob’s favorite entrepreneurial venture from his early years 5:13
How the book Small Giants influenced Rob’s own approach to business ownership 8:25
How Rob initially started working with Gino 14:51
Rob’s 10 disciplines 16:08
Rob’s method for planning his to-dos for the next day 39:01
Rob’s advice for the farmer who isn’t sure if they’ve chosen the right path 45:36
Where you can learn more about Rob and what he can do to help 51:16

About the Guest:

Rob Dube is the Co-founder, Owner, and Board Chair of imageOne. He is the Visionary/CEO of The 10 Disciplines for Managing and Maximizing Your Energy.

From Blow Pops to Forbes Best Small Companies! Rob started his first business in high school selling Blow Pops out of his locker. In 1991, he founded imageOne with his best friend, Joel Pearlman.

Rob helped guide the company with a focus on their purpose: to deliver genuine care that consistently drives extraordinary energy, actions, and experiences to every one, every day, every time. It is a unique approach to business that has driven the company to success in its industry. imageOne is simply the best at helping clients with technology solutions to optimize and manage print, automate business processes, secure documents, and help ensure a safe and healthy work environment.

Rob is the Visionary/CEO of The 10 Disciplines for Managing and Maximizing Your Energy, a video-based journey that teaches people 10 fast, simple, powerful, and fully customizable disciplines to manage and maximize their energy and live an optimal life. He is the author of the best-selling book, donothing,™ the most rewarding leadership challenge you will ever take and the host of the Leading with Genuine Care retreat and podcast. Rob challenges business leaders and entrepreneurs to look inward with mindfulness and meditation by sharing his own mindful leadership journey.

Resources:

Website: www.the10disciplines.com and https://www.donothingbook.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rob.dube.1 Twitter: https://twitter.com/robddube

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

211. Crystal Stevens on Herbalism and Education Dec 20, 2022

Do you grow medicinal herbs? Which ones, and what do you create with them?

On this week’s podcast, we’re proud to host Crystal Stevens: author, herbalist, educator, and co-owner of Flourish Farmstead and Flourish Folk School, from Godfrey, Illinois.

Crystal was born in Colorado, partly raised in California, and then transplanted to St. Louis, Missouri, where she spent her formative years as an activist and gardener in her community. She is the author of three successful books: Grow, Create, Inspire: Crafting a Joyful Life; Worms at Work: Harnessing the Awesome Power of Worms; and Your Edible Yard: Landscaping with Fruits and Vegetables.

Crystal has been teaching a Resilient Living workshop series for over a decade. She organized the Confluence Herbal Summit, the first small herbal conference of its kind in western Illinois. Crystal and her husband, Eric, have an intrinsic passion for growing food and medicinal herbs, growing native plants, cooking healthy meals, planting trees, foraging for wild food and medicine, creating art, spending time with their children in the fields and forests, and offering workshops through the Flourish Folk School.Tune in to hear about everything Crystal and her family are doing at their thriving farmstead!

You’ll hear:

How Crystal got into the regenerative herbal field 1:42
What the farm property and farming operation currently looks like 4:49
How Crystal does her marketing for all of her different ventures 7:45
Crystal’s inspiration to write Worms at Work 14:15
How Crystal and her husband decide who does what tasks 16:02
Crystal’s advice for someone looking to get into herbalism 26:51
Crystal’s favorite herb 32:44
The oil Crystal uses for extraction 33:27

About the Guest:

Crystal Stevens co-owns Flourish Farmstead and Flourish Folk School with her husband and two children in Godfrey, IL.

She is an author, folk herbalist, educator, artist, and a regenerative farmer. Crystal has written three books published by New Society Publishers. She speaks at conferences and Mother Earth News Fairs across the U.S. She has been teaching a Resilient Living workshop series as well as herbal education for nearly 15 years. Crystal co-founded Tend & Flourish School of Botanicals.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

210. Darcie and Darbie Zirkle on Their Conventional, Multigenerational Family Farm Dec 13, 2022

Are you open to new ideas and technology when it comes to the younger generations on your family farm? What do you keep from the older generation and incorporate from the newer one?

Today’s guests on the Thriving Farmer Podcast are Darcie and Darbie Zirkle, the twins of Zirkle Farms, located in Champaign County, Ohio. Zirkle Farms became a Century Farm in 2005. The family has multiple generations, all working together to make the farm evolve and thrive.Join us to hear all about the Zirkle’s family business and how they have evolved over the years on their Century Farm.

You’ll hear:

What it was like for Darcie and Darbie growing up on the farm 1:38
Seed variations 5:46
How Zirkle Farms has implemented technology 7:16
The biggest challenges facing family farms today, according to Darcie and Darbie 12:36
The farm’s process of passing ownership down to the next generation 15:54
Changes they would they like to see in their business 21:49
Darcie and Darbie’s stance on the general demonization of American farmers 28:27
What they see for the future of the farm 30:11
Their advice for someone thinking about getting into family farming 36:08

About the Guest:

Darcie and Darbie Zirkle were born and raised in Champaign County, OH where they now raise row crops and beef cattle on their family farm. Zirkle Farms is a Century Farm with 1500 acres of crops and 60 head of cattle.

Note: This podcast is a bit different than the majority of our guests. I feel it is important to hear how many of the farmers think that are your neighbors, fellow co-op shoppers, and farm bureau members.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Harvest Hosts provides a cost-free opportunity for small businesses and farms to increase revenue simply by inviting self-contained RV members to stay one night on their property. In return, Members patronize or donate to the business.

The program is free for farms to join and to share their offerings. There is no requirement to have hook-ups or services, just a place to park one RV.In exchange for the overnight stay, Harvest Hosts Members are encouraged to make a purchase of at least $20 at each host location they visit.

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209. Michael Torbett on Farming Microgreens and More! Dec 06, 2022

What can you learn from a biologist about microgreens?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we have Michael Torbett of Terra Vita Farm, located in Castle Hayne, NC. Terra Vita Farm is the only completely no-spray farm in Wilmington NC and practices no-till farming while building soils and ecosystems. Their nutrient dense produce includes: microgreens/shoots, edible flowers, herbs, seasonal produce, hemp, gourmet mushrooms, cut flowers, and honey. Join us to hear how Michael and the rest of the team at Terra Vita run their thriving microgreens farm!

You’ll hear:

What got Michael into farming 1:42
What the first year of farming was like for Michael 4:01
The crops Terra Vita is focusing on 7:58
Their compost source 10:02
Putting potatoes on landscape fabric 16:31
How value added works on Terra Vita 19:40
What kinds of flowers they’re working with 22:31
What the Terra Vita CSA looks like 32:56
The kinds of beneficial insects they are using 38:58
Michael’s advice for new farmers 40:49

About the Guest:

Michael Torbett is a first generation farmer, who built his farm operation from the ground up, starting with two vertical microgreen racks. Equipped with a degree in biology and a farm that is very biologically minded, Michael sets up ecosystems and habitats, along high rotation farm operations. Terra Vita Farm grows Certified Naturally Grown seasonal produce, microgreens, edible flowers, mushrooms, herbs, hemp, and honey.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Steward is transforming agriculture by equipping regenerative farms and food systems with the capital they need to grow. As a mission-driven financial partner, Steward works closely with agricultural businesses to scale their operations, improve the health of their lands and waters, and bolster local-to-regional food systems. To date, Steward has provided over $15M in business loans to fund 75 unique projects, backed by more than 1,500 participating lenders. Steward is proud to be a Certified B Corp. Seek financing or support a loan campaign at gosteward.com

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