The Acres U.S.A. Podcast

Welcome to “The Acres U.S.A. Podcast,” where we dive deep into the world of production-scale organic and regenerative farming. For over 50 years, Acres U.S.A.® has been the go-to resource for farmers, ranchers, and market gardeners, guiding them to grow food profitably and sustainably, all while honoring the rhythms of nature. Join our host, Taylor Henry, owner, and CEO, as he brings you weekly insights, interviews, and practical tips to cultivate a healthier, more resilient food system. Tune in and let’s grow together!

Latest Episodes:

Silencing Critics: The Fight Against Pesticide Liability with Kelly Ryerson Ep. 95 Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

On today’s episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast host Taylor Henry sits down with Kelly Ryerson, known as the 'glyphosate girl', and discusses the alarming developments in Florida's farm bill that threaten free speech regarding agricultural practices. She highlights the implications of a proposed liability shield for pesticide manufacturers, the ongoing legal battles surrounding glyphosate, and the health risks associated with pesticide exposure. The discussion also touches on the political landscape, the importance of activism, and the need for a unified movement across political lines to address these critical issues in agriculture and public health.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

Join Kelly’s fight: https://glyphosatefacts.com/stop-poison-cta/

Follow Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glyphosategirl/?hl=en

Follow Kelly on Twitter (X): https://x.com/GlyphosateGirl

Jr Burdick: Transitioning from Conventional Dairy to Direct to Consumer Ep. 94 Feb 09, 2026

Show notes

On today’s episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, discover how JR Burdick, an 11th-generation farmer, transformed his conventional dairy farm into a profitable, regenerative, direct-to-consumer operation. In this episode, JR shares his journey from industry frustration to success through authenticity, community, and a passion for real food. Learn how he overcame challenges like storms and market pressures to innovate and grow.

Key insights include:

Honest pricing and value communication
Building customer loyalty through trust
Cutting costs by eliminating unnecessary chemicals
Scaling based on customer demand
Diversifying through niche markets and community engagement

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about reviving small farms and strengthening local food systems. JR’s story is a blueprint for making farm life profitable, sustainable, and meaningful.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

Jr’s Website: https://www.nourishingfamilyfarm.com/

Why Soil Health Alone Won’t Make You Money - Richard Perkins Ep. Feb 02, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ host Taylor Henry and guest Richard Perkins explore how Richard turned a 32-acre Swedish farm into a thriving model of profitable regenerative agriculture. In this episode, Richard shares innovative strategies like pre-selling through Facebook groups and leveraging local sales platforms to transform ecological integrity into real income. Discover how to build authentic customer relationships, communicate value, and maximize revenue without cutting corners.

Richard's insights provide a blueprint for farmers and entrepreneurs eager to align profit with principles. Perfect for anyone passionate about sustainable farming that heals the land and pays the bills. Watch now for a masterclass in turning principles into profit.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

Richard’s Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/richardperkins

Navigating the Cattle Industry: Insights from AJ Richards Ep. 92 Jan 26, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, host Taylor Henry interviews AJ Richards, a ranching advocate and CEO of From the Farm. AJ shares his journey from a ranching family to becoming an entrepreneur focused on connecting farmers and ranchers directly with consumers. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the cattle industry during COVID-19, the economic struggles of small-scale slaughterhouses, and the importance of consumer education in understanding local food systems. AJ also discusses the role of USDA certification and the innovative platform he has created to support local producers in selling their products directly to consumers. In this conversation, AJ and Taylor also discuss the importance of building a direct consumer base in the beef market, the influence of government policies on agriculture, and the challenges faced by small producers in navigating regulatory environments. They emphasize the need for consumer education and the role of social media in shaping perceptions about food production. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of market control and the necessity for producers to adapt to changing consumer demands.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

From the Farm: https://fromthefarm.org/

Steve Campbell: Achieving Tender and Flavorful Beef on the Hoof. Ep. 91 Jan 19, 2026

Show notes

In this insightful podcast episode, Steve Campbell shares his expertise on achieving tender and flavorful beef without relying on DNA or ultrasound. Drawing from his extensive experience and knowledge gained from Gerald Fry, Campbell discusses the importance of visual identification of quality meat, emphasizing natural methods and the significance of factors like bone size, hide looseness, and glandular function. He also delves into the role of genetics, epigenetics, and proper handling in meat tenderness, while advocating for traditional practices over modern technological interventions.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

Steve’s Website: https://www.tailormadecattle.com/

Eco-Ag 2025 Panel: Decommoditize or Disappear: Reclaiming Profit and Independence in Agriculture Ep. 90 Jan 12, 2026

Show notes

Join us for this special live panel recording from Eco-Ag 2025, featuring regenerative agriculture leaders Gabe Brown, Rick Clark, and John Kempf, moderated by Taylor Henry. In this wide-ranging conversation, the panel dives into what it takes to build profitable, resilient farms in today’s volatile economic landscape. From cutting costs and escaping the commodity trap to value-added production, succession planning, and restoring rural communities, the speakers share hard-earned insights from decades on the land. You’ll hear practical frameworks for managing debt, investing wisely, mentoring the next generation, and designing farm businesses that prioritize independence, relationships, and long-term resilience. Tune in for a candid, thought-provoking discussion on how regenerative agriculture can secure both economic success and a thriving future for farmers and rural America.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

Hugh Lovel: The Need for Soil Testing Ep. 89 Jan 05, 2026

Show notes

Join us in this throwback Eco-Ag episode from 2012 with Hugh Lovel, a renowned expert in biodynamic agriculture, as he presents on the critical importance of total soil testing. Discover how comprehensive soil analysis can revolutionize crop management and enhance soil fertility. Hugh shares his experiences from consulting with farmers across continents and emphasizes the role of soil testing in sustainable agriculture. Tune in to learn about the origins of total testing, its applications, and why it's essential for understanding the true potential of your soil.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Hugh’s Book: ‘A Biodynamic Farm’

Gary Zimmer: Intro to Biological Farming Ep. 88 Dec 29, 2025

Show notes

In this throwback recording from Eco-Ag 1996, join Gary Zimmer as he talks through the principles of biological farming, sharing his journey from a dairy nutritionist to a pioneer in sustainable agriculture. Discover how understanding soil biology, mineral balance, and innovative farming techniques can transform agricultural practices and yield healthier crops. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about sustainable farming, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Gary’s Books: The Biological Farmer, Advancing Biological Farming

Johnny Klemme: The Next Generation of Farmers Ep. 87 Dec 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Taylor Henry interviews Johnny Klemme, an award-winning farmland advisor, broker, and auctioneer. They discuss the critical issues surrounding farmland succession planning, the emotional and financial dynamics of family farms, and strategies for successful transitions to the next generation. Johnny shares insights on the importance of early conversations about succession, the role of trusts and partnerships, and the impact of 1031 exchanges on land investments. The conversation also touches on the emotional attachments to land, the importance of documentation, and the potential for conservation easements to preserve farmland for future generations.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Johnny’s Book: ‘American Family Farmland: Preserving Values and Creating Wealth’

Johnny’s Website: https://gfarmland.com/

Dr. Nasha Winters, You’re Microbiome: You are what you eat, and what your food eats Ep. 86 Dec 15, 2025

Show notes

Throwback to the 2019 Eco-Ag Conference where we join Dr. Nasha Winters as she delves into the intricate relationship between our health and the environment in this enlightening episode. Discover how the quality of our soil impacts our well-being, the role of the microbiome in disease prevention, and the power of diet in managing chronic illnesses. With insights from her personal journey and professional experience, Dr. Winters challenges conventional medical wisdom and empowers listeners to take control of their health through informed choices. Tune in for a transformative discussion on nurturing both our internal and external environments.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/

Nasha’s Book: The Metabolic Approach to Cancer

Nasha’s Website: https://drnasha.com/