The Thriving Farmer Podcast

346. Running a Year-Round Farm Market with Emma de Long Feb 03, 2026

A Note from Michael:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast is currently on pause as we navigate a busy season on the farm. While we're taking this break, we're excited to share Farm in Focus, a special series of short, focused conversations recorded earlier this year. These bite-sized episodes highlight practical insights from farmers and experts across the industry. We hope they're helpful and encouraging as you continue your farming journey.

What does it really take to run a small, year-round local market?

In this Farm in Focus episode, Michael sits down with Emma de Long of Kneehigh Farm to talk about the creation and day-to-day operation of Red Dog Market, a year-round local food market in Pennsylvania.

Emma shares how Red Dog Market grew out of increased demand during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it has evolved into a community-centered outlet for her farm and other local producers. From staffing and sourcing to signage, POS systems, and regulatory considerations, Emma offers a candid look at the realities behind keeping fresh food accessible all year long.

Whether you're considering opening a farm store, expanding into retail, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes work of local food markets, this episode offers practical, grounded insights from someone doing it every day.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

The Origin of Red Dog Market • How COVID-19 accelerated demand for local food access [02:42] • Why Kneehigh Farm serves as the market's anchor vendor [02:42]

Market Operations & Staffing • Running a year-round market with a small, focused team [08:32] • The role of a dedicated market manager and daily task division [08:32] • Why maintaining fresh produce is "a puzzle every day" [14:39]

Sourcing & Vendor Relationships • How Emma vets vendors—especially for meat and dairy products [12:25] • The importance of building strong relationships with local producers [05:34] • Balancing product variety with quality and consistency [12:25]

Systems, Marketing & Logistics • The complexities of using POS systems for a small, hybrid market model [14:39] • Effective signage and in-person marketing strategies [16:51] • Leveraging existing farm share and CSA memberships to build traffic [16:51]

Advice for Aspiring Market Owners • Why starting slow and understanding your costs is critical [16:51] • Regulatory considerations every market owner should be aware of • How community engagement shapes long-term success [20:40]

Bio:

Emma de Long is a farmer, educator, and fiber advocate based in Chester County, Pennsylvania. She founded Kneehigh Farm in 2013 and has since grown a diverse mix of vegetables, dye plants, and fiber crops. Since 2019, Emma has cultivated indigo for natural pigment extraction, and in 2020 she co-founded the Pennsylvania Flax Project, an initiative dedicated to rebuilding regional flax processing infrastructure. Kneehigh Farm operates as a 100% women-run operation, and in 2021 Emma opened Red Dog Market, a year-round outlet for farm goods and local products.

Links:

👩🏻‍🌾 Visit Kneehigh Farm's website: Kneehigh Farm 📷 Instagram: @kneehighfarm 👍 Facebook: @kneehighfarmCSA🌾 Visit Red Dog Market's website: Red Dog Market📷 Red Dog Market Instagram: @reddogmarketpa👍 Red Dog Market Facebook: @reddogmarketpa

This episode is sponsored by Farm on Central:

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Cuttings ship soon and quantities are limited. Order at shop.farmoncentral.com.

345. Managing 600+ Crop Varieties at Amber Waves Farm Jan 27, 2026

A Note from Michael:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast is currently on pause as we navigate a busy season on the farm. While we're taking this break, we're excited to share Farm in Focus, a special series of short, focused conversations recorded earlier this year. These bite-sized episodes highlight practical insights from farmers and experts across the industry. We hope they're helpful and encouraging as you continue your farming journey.

What does it take to plan, grow, and manage more than 600 crop varieties each year?

In this Farm in Focus episode, Michael sits down again with Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow of Amber Waves Farm—this time diving into the art and complexity of crop planning on a diversified, vertically integrated teaching farm.

From balancing customer demand with realistic yields, to building soil health with integrated grain production, to coordinating a team during harvest, Katie and Amanda offer a candid look at what it really takes to manage large-scale crop diversity.

Whether you're planning your first season or refining long-term systems, their insights will help you think more strategically about plant diversity, soil management, documentation, and how to build a resilient crop plan that works.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

Crop Diversity & Customer Preferences: • Why Amber Waves grows over 600 varieties—and what customers actually want [2:48]

The Complexity of Crop Planning: • How succession planting, land limitations, and crop mix make planning so challenging [6:12]

Building Soil Health: • Integrating grain production with vegetables to support soil structure and fertility [10:15] • Innovative disease management strategies, including soil steaming [12:28]

Harvesting & Team Coordination: • The communication systems that keep harvest running smoothly [17:35]

Advice for New Farmers: • Why writing everything down is one of their most important tools [21:02] • How biodiversity strengthens customer engagement and long-term sustainability

Bio:Amber Waves began in 2008 when Amanda Merrow and Katie Baldwin met during a farm apprenticeship, sparking a friendship and a shared dream to feed their local community. A year later, they launched their farm on seven conserved acres behind the Amagansett Farmers Market, drawn to the land's unique coastal terroir, which inspired the name Amber Waves. In the early days, they personally connected with every visitor, cultivating a community that found comfort, inspiration, and empowerment through the farm. By 2016, with the support of dedicated locals and visionary women before them, Amanda and Katie secured ownership of the farmland and reunited it with the historic farmstand. Today, Amber Waves spans over 30 acres, operates a vibrant market and kitchen, and stands as a nationally recognized educational farm serving hundreds of families and visitors each year.

Links:

👩🏻‍🌾 Visit Amber Waves Farm's website: Amber Waves Farm 📺 YouTube: @amberwavesfarmNY 📷 Instagram: Amber Waves Farm 👍 Facebook: Amber Waves Farm

This episode is brought to you by shop.farmoncentral:

Looking for a unique, high-demand crop for your garden or farm? Farm on Central offers a wide selection of ginger and turmeric—two highly medicinal crops that are popular at farmers markets, with chefs, and among folks making their own wellness products.

These long-season crops thrive outdoors in southern climates, and growers in northern regions often succeed with them in tunnels or containers. Preorders are now open, with options ranging from seed rhizomes for adventurous growers to easy-to-grow started plants.

Shop the full collection at shop.farmoncentral.com.

344: The One-Cow Revolution with Shawn and Beth Dougherty Jan 20, 2026

A Note from Michael:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast is currently on pause as we navigate a busy season on the farm. While we're taking this break, we're excited to share Farm in Focus, a special series of short, focused conversations recorded earlier this year. These bite-sized episodes highlight practical insights from farmers and experts across the industry. We hope they're helpful and encouraging as you continue your farming journey.

Can one grass-fed cow truly become the heart of a food-independent farm?

In this Farm in Focus episode, Michael sits down with Shawn and Beth Dougherty, authors of One Cow Revolution, to talk about how a single dairy cow can transform a farm's productivity, resilience, and relationship with the land.

Drawing from decades of experience, the Doughertys explain why grass—not grain—is the foundation of sustainable dairy systems, how ruminants build soil fertility while producing food, and what new cow owners need to understand before bringing a milk cow home. This conversation blends philosophy with deeply practical advice, offering a grounded look at low-input, grass-based farming.

Whether you're dreaming of a family milk cow or simply curious about food independence, this episode offers timeless insights rooted in observation, experience, and respect for animals and land.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

The One Cow Revolution

Why Shawn and Beth felt compelled to write One Cow Revolution [01:40]
How cows fit into a sustainable, food-independent farm system [01:40]

Grass, Ruminants & Soil Health

Why grass is the most important resource on the farm [03:34]
How ruminants improve soil fertility while producing food [03:34]

Advice for New Cow Owners

Why starting small is critical for success [07:50]
How temporary electric fencing makes land integration easier [07:50]
Why observation matters more than rigid systems [07:50]

The Abundance of a Dairy Cow

Just how much food one cow can provide [13:34]
Using milk to feed other animals and increase farm productivity [13:34]

Common Mistakes & Lessons Learned

Where new cow owners often underestimate feed needs [16:14]
Why practical experience matters more than theory [16:14]
Why milking is simpler than many people expect [16:14]

About the Guests:

Shawn and Beth Dougherty have been homesteading together since 1985, for the past 35 years in northern Appalachia. They raise dairy and beef cows, pigs, and poultry on a small acreage designated by the state of Ohio as "not suitable for agriculture." The Doughertys write, teach, and speak on holistic grazing and inputs-free farming, using grass-fed ruminants to restore abused land and build fertile, resilient farmsteads. They are the authors of One Cow Revolution, The Independent Farmstead, and The Independent Farmstead's Field Guides to Inputs-Free Farming series.

Links:

🐄Visit Shawn & Beth's website: One Cow Revolution 📷 Instagram: @shawnandbeth 📚Their books: One Cow Revolution and The Independent Farmstead

This episode is brought to you by Farm on Central:

Looking for a unique, high-demand crop for your garden or farm? Farm on Central offers a wide selection of ginger and turmeric—two highly medicinal crops that are popular at farmers markets, with chefs, and among folks making their own wellness products.

These long-season crops thrive outdoors in southern climates, and growers in northern regions often succeed with them in tunnels or containers. Preorders are now open, with options ranging from seed rhizomes for adventurous growers to easy-to-grow started plants.

👉 Shop the full collection at shop.farmoncentral.com.

343. Reviving Flax: A Zero Waste Crop with Emma de Long Jan 13, 2026

A Note from Michael:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast is currently on pause as we navigate a busy season on the farm. While we're taking this break, we're excited to share Farm in Focus, a special series of short, focused conversations recorded earlier this year. These bite-sized episodes highlight practical insights from farmers and experts across the industry. We hope they're helpful and encouraging as you continue your farming journey.

How can flax become a sustainable, versatile crop for modern farms?

In this Farm in Focus episode, Michael sits down with Emma de Long of Kneehigh Farm to talk about her work with fiber flax—one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world and a plant with surprising potential for today's regenerative and artisan fiber markets.

Emma shares how she began growing flax in 2020 and why she co-founded the Pennsylvania Flax Project, an initiative working to rebuild regional fiber infrastructure. From the anatomy of the flax plant to the practical challenges of processing, Emma explains both the opportunities and realities of reviving a heritage fiber crop in the U.S.

Whether you're curious about natural fibers, looking to diversify your crops, or interested in small-scale processing, this episode offers a thoughtful and accessible introduction to a crop with deep history and growing future demand.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

Flax Basics & History

Why flax has nearly vanished in U.S. production—and why it's making a comeback [03:20]
The difference between fiber flax and seed flax, and how each is bred [03:20]
Pennsylvania's historical ties to flax cultivation dating back to the 1600s [03:20]

Market Interest & Opportunity

Rising demand for natural fibers and sustainable textiles [10:29]
Zero-waste potential—how nearly every part of the plant is useful [10:29]

Growing Fiber Flax

What makes flax a low-input, sustainable crop [08:16]
Soil and weather considerations—why "the weather trumps all" [08:16]
Tips for new growers and why starting small is best [18:35]

Processing & Infrastructure

Why processing flax into fiber is complex—but possible on small scales [13:39]
Current challenges around U.S. flax infrastructure [16:33]
How the Pennsylvania Flax Project is working toward a regional processing mill [16:33]

Wrap-Up & Reflection

Why flax can be both a joy and a challenge to integrate into diversified farms [18:35]

Bio:

Emma de Long is a farmer, educator, and fiber advocate based in Chester County, Pennsylvania. She founded Kneehigh Farm in 2013 and has since grown a diverse mix of vegetables, dye plants, and fiber crops. Since 2019, Emma has cultivated indigo for natural pigment extraction, and in 2020 she co-founded the Pennsylvania Flax Project, an initiative dedicated to rebuilding regional flax processing infrastructure. Kneehigh Farm operates as a 100% women-run operation, and in 2021 Emma opened Red Dog Market, a year-round outlet for farm goods and local products.

Links:

👩🏻‍🌾 Visit Kneehigh Farm's website: Kneehigh Farm 🌾 Visit PA Flax Project's website: PA Flax Project 📷 Instagram: @kneehighfarm 👍 Facebook: @kneehighfarmCSA

This episode is sponsored by Growing Farmers:

Looking to get your farm systems dialed in for 2026? The Small Farm Business Intensive is a two-day, on-farm event hosted by Michael Kilpatrick in Ohio on February 20–21.

Participants will walk through the same frameworks used at Farm on Central, covering planning, pricing, profitability, team management, and more. The goal is clarity—leaving with a plan and practical tools you can actually use to move your farm forward.

Learn more and save your spot at growingfarmers.com.

342. Managing a 24-Person Farm Team with Amber Waves Farm Jan 06, 2026

A Note from Michael:

The Thriving Farmer Podcast is currently on pause as we navigate a busy season on the farm. While we're taking this break, we're excited to share Farm in Focus, a special series of short, focused conversations recorded earlier this year. These bite-sized episodes highlight practical insights from farmers and experts across the industry. We hope they're helpful and encouraging as you continue your farming journey.

How do you build—and keep—a thriving farm team?

On this special Farm in Focus episode, Michael is joined by Katie Baldwin and Amanda Merrow, co-founders of Amber Waves Farm in Amagansett, New York. Known for their vibrant farm, educational programs, and deep commitment to community, Katie and Amanda share how they manage one of the most dynamic farm teams in the region.

From hiring with intention to setting clear expectations, training the next generation, and keeping morale high during peak season, this conversation offers bite-sized wisdom for any farmer looking to improve their team culture and daily operations.

Whether you're managing two people or twenty, their insights will help you strengthen communication, create systems that serve your farm, and build a workplace people want to return to each day.

In this episode, you'll hear about:

Building the Team: • What goes into hiring for enthusiasm, not just experience [2:26] • How Amber Waves builds a diverse farm crew each year [4:16]

Training the Next Generation: • Structuring an apprenticeship program that truly prepares new farmers [9:13] • Teaching financial literacy and business planning as core skills [10:05]

Leadership & Management: • Why clarity and communication matter more than you think [13:10] • How they use scheduled feedback to support apprentices [21:00] • Keeping morale high through "gamifying" tasks and building community [18:00]

Looking Ahead: • How mentorship shapes their farm's vision for the future [21:00]

Bio:Amber Waves began in 2008 when Amanda Merrow and Katie Baldwin met during a farm apprenticeship, sparking a friendship and a shared dream to feed their local community. A year later, they launched their farm on seven conserved acres behind the Amagansett Farmers Market, drawn to the land's unique coastal terroir, which inspired the name Amber Waves. In the early days, they personally connected with every visitor, cultivating a community that found comfort, inspiration, and empowerment through the farm. By 2016, with the support of dedicated locals and visionary women before them, Amanda and Katie secured ownership of the farmland and reunited it with the historic farmstand. Today, Amber Waves spans over 30 acres, operates a vibrant market and kitchen, and stands as a nationally recognized educational farm serving hundreds of families and visitors each year.

Links:

👩🏻‍🌾 Visit Amber Waves Farm's website: Amber Waves Farm 📺 YouTube: @amberwavesfarmNY 📷 Instagram: Amber Waves Farm 👍 Facebook: Amber Waves Farm

This episode is brought to you by Growing Farmers:

Looking to get your farm systems dialed in for 2026? The Small Farm Business Intensive is a two-day, on-farm event hosted by Michael Kilpatrick in Ohio on February 20–21.

Participants will walk through the same frameworks used at Farm on Central, covering planning, pricing, profitability, team management, and more. The goal is clarity—leaving with a plan and practical tools you can actually use to move your farm forward.

Learn more and save your spot at growingfarmers.com.

341. From Chef to Community Farmer: Julie Warpinski of Rosewood Farm Aug 19, 2025

What does it take to turn six acres into a destination for food, flowers, and connection?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Julie Warpinski, founder of Rosewood Farm in Sugar Grove, Illinois. Drawing on her background as a chef, Julie has transformed six acres into a vibrant destination for seasonal produce, fresh flowers, and memorable events. From CSA programs and farm camps to weddings and cooking classes, Rosewood blends the beauty of farm life with the joy of gathering.

In this episode, you'll hear:

From Kitchen to Field – How Julie's culinary roots inspired her journey into farming [0:57]
Hands-On Learning – The types of classes and educational programs offered at Rosewood [8:07]
Seasonal Growing – How Rosewood produces fresh vegetables and flowers throughout the year [10:31]
Marketing the Farm – The strategies Julie uses to reach and engage her customers [16:18]
Life on the Farm – What a typical day looks like and how Julie manages her time [27:47]
Sustainability in Practice – Julie's perspective on long-term living and working on the farm [31:02]
Serving the Community – Where Rosewood's customers come from and how they connect with the farm [40:50]
Words of Wisdom – Julie's advice for leaving a corporate job to start a farm [43:38]

Don't miss this episode if you're curious about blending good food, community spirit, and sustainable farming into one thriving business.

About the Guest:

Former chef turned passionate farmer, Julie founded Rosewood Farm to reconnect people with the source of their food. What began as a personal journey has grown into a thriving community hub focused on naturally grown produce, fresh-cut flowers, and hands-on education. Rosewood Farm hosts seasonal events, farm camps, and cooking classes to inspire a deeper appreciation for sustainable living.

Connect with Rosewood Farm:

🖥️ Website: Rosewood Farm 📷 Instagram: Follow @rosewfarm 👍 Facebook: Like Rosewood Farm

340. Preserving Heritage Through Olives: Karmel Abufarha on Canaan Palestine Aug 05, 2025

How can farming protect culture and sustain communities in the midst of conflict?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Karmel Abufarha, Marketing Manager of Canaan Palestine. Since 2013, Karmel has worked alongside his father and Palestinian smallholder farmers to create a route-to-market for ancient olive groves and traditional crops. What started as a local effort to safeguard livelihoods has grown into a global movement, connecting Palestinian farmers with consumers who value sustainability, social responsibility, and regenerative practices.

Tune in to hear how Karmel and the team at Canaan are preserving cultural heritage, uplifting farming families, and building hope for the next generation.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Returning to Palestine: What led Karmel to leave Wisconsin and join his family's farming mission [1:11]
Water Conservation: Is mulching an effective method for olive groves? [11:47]
Co-op Structure: What does the average family farm look like in Palestine? [13:46]
Farming Amid Conflict: How current events impact Palestinian farmers' work and livelihoods [17:17]
Global Markets: Where is Canaan's olive oil sold, and who are their customers? [23:02]
Farmer Support: How Canaan provides resources and opportunities for their farming partners [26:32]

Don't miss this episode to learn how regenerative farming can protect cultural heritage and create lasting economic and ecological impact.

About the Guest

Karmel Abufarha is the Marketing Manager for Canaan Palestine, a pioneering initiative supporting smallholder Palestinian farmers and preserving the ancient olive groves of the region. Raised in Madison, Wisconsin, Karmel returned to Palestine in 2013 to embrace his heritage and pursue regenerative agriculture. He now plays key roles in marketing, farmer education, and building global connections that sustain both the land and its people.

📲 Connect with Canaan Palestine:

🌍 Website: Canaan Palestine 📸 Instagram: Follow @canaan.palestine 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Canaan Palestine ▶️ TikTok: Follow @canaan.palestine

339. The Beekeeper's Apothecary: Kaylee Richardson on Herbs, Homesteading & Honey Bees Jul 22, 2025

What happens when we slow down, listen to nature, and "learn something old"?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Kaylee Richardson, Virginia-based herbalist, beekeeper, and author of The Beekeeper's Apothecary. With roots in Appalachia and a heart for old-world wisdom, Kaylee shares her journey from the medical field to full-time homesteading.

Tune in to learn how she integrates herbalism and beekeeping to build a thriving, intentional lifestyle—and how you can begin to "learn something old" each day.

In this episode, you'll hear:

Getting Started with Bees: How Kaylee got into beekeeping and what drew her to working with honey bees. [0:54]
Growing Herbs at Home: Kaylee's insights into growing herbs—what's easy, what's tricky, and how to get started. [7:19]
Beekeeping on the Homestead: What Kaylee does with her bees and how they fit into her larger homesteading lifestyle. [17:54]
Herbal Bee Care: How Kaylee uses herbs to support and treat her colonies naturally. [25:12]
Selling from the Homestead: The different ways Kaylee shares her farm products and creations with the public. [28:38]
Homesteading with Kids: How Kaylee involves her children in the day-to-day rhythm of farm life. [32:50]
Go-To Herbs: The herbs Kaylee reaches for most often in her home and apothecary. [42:09]

Don't miss this episode if you're curious about the powerful connections between bees, herbs, and intentional living—straight from the homestead.

About the Guest:

Kaylee Richardson is a beekeeper, herbalist, homemaker, and author based in the mountains of Virginia. She and her husband live a life grounded in intentionality—raising livestock, growing food, foraging mushrooms, and using herbal remedies rooted in tradition. Through her platform The Honeystead, she shares practical tips on homesteading and encourages others to reconnect with nature by "learning something old."

Resources & Links:

📘 Preorder The Beekeeper's Apothecary: Homestead Living Shop 🌿 Visit Kaylee's website: The Honeystead 📺 YouTube: Subscribe to The Honeystead 📷 Instagram: Follow @the_honeystead 👍 Facebook: Like The Honeystead

338. Behind the Scenes with Michael Kilpatrick: A Conversation with Rodger Wasson Jul 08, 2025

What happens when the interviewer becomes the guest?

This week on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, the mic flips as Rodger Wasson, longtime advocate for farmers and host of the Farm to Table Talk Podcast, interviews our own Michael Kilpatrick. From behind-the-scenes systems to current hurdles, Rodger dives deep into the day-to-day of Michael's farm, business, and mindset as a leader in the regenerative agriculture space.

Tune in for a rare peek into what's working (and what's not) at the Farm on Central farm and store — and why Michael remains committed to helping small farms succeed.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Product overview – What the Farm on Central store offers and what's produced on the farm [2:57]
Mushroom production – Does the team grow fungi on site? [8:19]
Local sourcing – How much of their product lineup is grown at home vs. sourced [11:28]
Marketing strategy – How they reach customers and spread the word [18:10]
Current challenges – The biggest hurdles facing Michael and the team right now [28:30]
Food access – Can SNAP/EBT be used on the farm? [32:32]
Housing and labor – What the team structure looks like and if they use H2A housing [40:26]
Small-acreage potential – Michael's outlook on what's possible with limited land [52:44]

Don't miss this episode if you've ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a diversified, modern farm—from managing products and marketing to tackling regulation and building a resilient business model.

Michael Kilpatrick's Farm:

🌐 Website: www.farmoncentral.com Online Store: https://shop.farmoncentral.com/

About the Guest:

Rodger Wasson is host of the Farm to Table Talk podcast. Raised on a livestock farm in Central Illinois, he's spent his career advocating for farmers both nationally and internationally. With experience spanning commodity boards, global food systems, and grassroots storytelling, Rodger bridges the gap between producers and consumers in powerful ways.

Connect with Rodger Wasson: 🌐 Website: www.farmtotabletalk.com

337. Farm4Profit on Profitable Farming and Smart Stewardship Jun 24, 2025

What happens when two forward-thinking Iowa farmers team up to help others grow better businesses?

This week on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tanner Winterhof and Corey Hillebo, hosts of the Farm4Profit Podcast. With backgrounds in finance, crop and livestock production, and agribusiness leadership, Tanner and Corey are on a mission to help farmers treat their operations like profitable, resilient businesses.

Through the Farm4Profit platform, they share tools, technology, and mindset shifts to help farms succeed in today's complex ag economy. Tune in to hear how they balance tradition with innovation, and why they're passionate about sharing the lessons they've learned along the way.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Why Farm4Profit?: How they chose their name and why profit is a key focus for farmers [1:26]
Crop Innovation: How real crop farming has changed in recent years [3:56]
Tech & Inputs: The evolving role of technology and chemical use in modern agriculture [9:37]
Farm as a Business: What trips farmers up and how to stay focused on profitability [19:50]
Family Farm Dynamics: The challenges and opportunities of working within a family operation [27:06]
Looking Ahead: Corey and Tanner's plans for future crops and business growth [32:57]

Don't miss this episode if you want practical, honest insights into treating your farm like a business while staying grounded in stewardship and legacy.

About the Guests:

Tanner Winterhof grew up on a farm in northwest Iowa and has blended his passion for agriculture with a successful career in banking and agribusiness. He co-hosts the Farm4Profit Podcast, helping farm businesses grow through financial literacy, innovation, and sustainability.

Corey Hillebo is a fourth-generation farmer in Polk City, Iowa. As Farm Manager for Hillebo Family Farms and President of Big Creek Seed, Corey brings leadership and technical knowledge to both his operation and the Farm4Profit Podcast. His focus includes row crops, swine, and seed production, as well as helping other farmers embrace new opportunities.

Connect with Farm4Profit: 🌐 Website: Farm4Profit 📸 Instagram: Follow @farm4profit 👍 Facebook: Like Farm4Profit

336. Generations of Organic Stewardship: John Bell on Elmwood Stock Farm's Legacy Jun 10, 2025

What does it look like to steward a diversified organic farm across six generations?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by John Bell, managing owner of Elmwood Stock Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky. John and his wife Melissa are raising the farm's seventh generation while managing over 400 acres of USDA Certified Organic vegetables, poultry, pork, and grass-fed beef.

Since becoming certified organic in 2000, Elmwood Stock Farm has focused on sustainable rotations of crops and livestock to build soil health, reduce off-farm inputs, and nourish their community with nutrient-dense food.

Tune in to hear how this legacy farm continues to thrive in a modern marketplace.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Farm history – When Elmwood Stock Farm was established and how it's evolved [0:59]
Animal integration – How and when livestock were added to the operation [8:29]
Customer base – Who buys their diverse organic products and how they connect with their market [21:17]
Vision for the future – John's thoughts on where Elmwood is headed in the coming years [29:49]
Location advantage – Why their Kentucky location works for organic sales [33:28]
Team dynamics – What their year-round and seasonal staffing looks like [40:59]
Favorite tool – The tool John relies on most in his daily work [42:59]

Don't miss this episode if you're curious about running a truly diversified, multi-generational organic farm that continues to innovate while staying true to its roots.

About the Guest:

John Bell has spent his life working on Elmwood Stock Farm, a sixth-generation family farm in Georgetown, Kentucky. As a managing owner, John leads organic vegetable production and oversees their pastured pork and grass-fed Wagyu-Angus cattle operations. He's an active voice in regional agricultural leadership and a past board chair of the Organic Association of Kentucky. Alongside his wife Melissa, John is raising the farm's next generation while advancing a vision of ecological farming and community nourishment.

Connect with Elmwood Stock Farm: 🌐 Website: Elmwood Stock Farm 📸 Instagram: Follow @elmwoodstockfarm 👍🏼 Facebook: Like ElmwoodStockFarm ▶️ YouTube: Subscribe to Elmwood Stock Farm

335. From Sheep to Soil: Zeb Horrell's Vision for Regenerative New Zealand Jun 03, 2025

What does it look like to transform land, community, and food systems—all at once?

This week on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Zeb Horrell, Chief Regenerative Officer at Mangaroa Farms in Whitemans Valley, New Zealand. Zeb is a third-generation farmer turned regenerative land steward, working to reimagine what farming can be through bioregional resilience, collaborative land models, and deep ecological awareness.

At Mangaroa Farms—a community food hub and living laboratory—they're transitioning former dairy and pine operations into regenerative agriculture and native forest systems.

Tune in to hear how Zeb is integrating education, community events, and hands-on ecological practices to build a thriving, resilient future from the ground up.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Early background – What Zeb was doing before joining Mangaroa Farms [3:22]
Farm enterprises – The mix of operations they manage, from animals to vegetables [4:46]
Leadership role – What Zeb's work as Chief Regenerative Officer involves [8:23]
Market garden crops – What they grow and how long their season lasts [14:00]
Volunteer programs – How they're engaging the community in hands-on learning [18:18]
Events & outreach – The kinds of educational events they host on the farm [23:15]
Spreading the word – How Mangaroa Farms gets the word out about their programs [27:01]
Animal processing – How they manage ethical and localized animal processing [31:02]
Favorite farm tool – The tool Zeb can't live without on the farm [36:40]

Don't miss this episode if you're interested in how regenerative farming can strengthen communities, heal ecosystems, and reconnect people with the land—no matter where in the world you farm.

About the Guest:

Zebulon Horrell is a regenerative land steward and community weaver based in Southland, New Zealand. After transitioning his family's 1,000-acre sheep farm to more ecological practices, he founded the Future Whenua Collective to support land-based solutions through education, collaboration, and events. Today, Zeb works as the Chief Regenerative Officer at Mangaroa Farms, a resilient community food hub and educational center that integrates market gardening, native forest regeneration, and regenerative grazing practices. His mission is to foster bioregional resilience and ecological awareness for future generations.

Connect with Mangaroa Farms: 🌐 Website: Mangaroa Farms 📸 Instagram: Follow Mangaroa Farms 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Mangaroa Farms

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

334. Securing the Homestead: Tim Eng on Safety, Resilience, and Community May 27, 2025

What role does security play in building a thriving homestead?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Tim Eng, a West Point graduate, Army veteran, and real estate expert who now helps families transition into resilient, self-sufficient homesteads. After years in one of the most competitive real estate markets in the U.S., Tim and his family made the leap to homesteading in Tennessee.

With a background in military engineering and a passion for regenerative living, Tim now teaches homesteaders how to build security into their land, homes, and communities—from the ground up.

Tune in to hear how Tim combines military strategy and permaculture to help others protect what matters most.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Why security matters: Why should every homesteader take security into account?
Axis Control: What it means and how it applies to protecting your land [12:05]
Preparedness Planning: What emergency preparedness really looks like for homesteaders [19:23]
Smart Land Buying: What to consider when purchasing a homestead property [22:22]
Lessons from Experience: Tim's personal examples and the mindset shift behind homestead security [27:25]

Don't miss this episode if you're building a homestead and want to ensure your property, family, and food systems are secure and resilient.

About the Guest:

Tim Eng is a West Point graduate and former Army combat engineer who served in Iraq before becoming a top real estate agent in the San Francisco Bay Area. After relocating to Tennessee with his wife and children, Tim answered the "Call to Farms" and now lives a regenerative homesteading lifestyle. Through his platform The Homesteading Agent, he combines military expertise, real estate insight, and a passion for preparedness to help others find and secure land for resilient living.

Connect with Tim Eng: 🌐 Website: The Homesteading Agent 📸 Instragram: Follow on Instagram 👍 Facebook: Like on Facebook 🎧 Podcast: Call to Farms Podcast

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

333. Teaching Self-Sufficiency: Kody Hanner on Homesteading and Hands-On Education May 20, 2025

How can homesteaders empower the next generation through practical, real-world learning?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Kody Hanner, a homesteader, author, and educator based in North Idaho. As the founder of The Homestead Education, Kody helps families integrate homesteading and self-sufficiency into their homeschooling journey. What began as a personal health journey turned into a life-changing homestead and a mission to equip children with the tools they need to thrive outside the traditional classroom.

Tune in to hear how Kody's family healed, homesteaded, and built a thriving educational business to help others do the same.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Health Journey: What led Kody to rethink her family's lifestyle and food choices? [1:41] Healing at Home: How the Hanners reversed a terminal diagnosis with food and farming [3:47] Moving Without a Map: What gave Kody the courage to leap into homesteading with no clear plan? [13:33] Hands-On Learning: How Kody's curriculum brings homestead science into kids' daily lives [24:28] Raising Show Pigs: What goes into producing high-quality, pasture-raised pork? [27:55] Health Differences: How do naturally raised pigs compare to conventional ones? [33:38] Finding Her Audience: When did Kody realize her work could reach beyond her farm? [37:53] Homestead Topics: What does Kody cover on The Homestead Education Podcast? [45:35] Kid Engagement: How does she keep her kids involved and excited about homesteading? [56:26]

Don't miss this episode if you're passionate about teaching kids where food comes from, living with purpose, and making homesteading part of your family's education.

About Kody Hanner:

Kody Hanner is a homesteader, proud homeschool mom, and the creator of The Homestead Education; a company that provides educational resources that aim to teach children self-sufficiency through hands-on learning. The Hanner Family runs a direct-to-consumer pork operation in North Idaho and enjoys educating across the country.

Connect with Kody Hanner:

🌐 Website: The Homestead Education 📸 Instagram: Follow @homesteadeducation👍🏼 Facebook: Like @homesteadeducation📺 YouTube: Subscribe to HomesteadEducation 🎧 Podcast: The Homestead Education Podcast

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

332. Building the Fair Trade Movement: Paul Rice on Ethical Farming & Global Impact May 13, 2025

How can global trade empower farmers and create a more just food system?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Paul Rice, Founder and CEO of Fair Trade USA. After spending more than a decade working with coffee farmers in Nicaragua, Paul returned to the U.S. to launch the Fair Trade Certified™ label—transforming the way we think about sourcing coffee, cocoa, produce, apparel, and more.

Since 1998, Paul has partnered with over 1,400 companies, from Whole Foods to Patagonia, helping channel billions of dollars into the hands of farmers and workers worldwide. In this episode, he shares the early days of the movement, what's changed for farmers globally, and how transparency, sustainability, and equity are shaping the future of food and farming.

Tune in to hear how Paul's on-the-ground experience shaped a global movement, why Fair Trade still matters today, and what's next for ethical sourcing and sustainable farming.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Origins Abroad: What took Paul to Nicaragua, and what he learned from over a decade working with farmers [1:45]
Coffee Cycles: What the farming year looks like for a typical smallholder coffee farmer [3:54]
Market Shifts: How relationships between farmers and buyers are evolving [13:20]
Starting Fair Trade USA: The leap from on-the-ground work to building a movement [18:16]
Funding Ethics: How Fair Trade USA sustains its mission and growth [21:09]
Defining Child Labor: The complexities of global labor standards [28:18]
The Book: Why Paul decided to document his journey and lessons learned [41:16]
Tariffs & Trade: Paul's take on how policy affects global food systems [45:17]
In the Garden: Paul's favorite veggie to grow at home [48:31]

Don't miss this episode if you're passionate about fair trade, ethical sourcing, and how food systems can create real change in the world.

About the Guest: Paul Rice is the founder and CEO of Fair Trade USA, the leading certifier of Fair Trade products in North America. After working with smallholder farmers in Nicaragua for over a decade, Paul returned to the U.S. and launched the Fair Trade Certified™ label in 1998. Under his leadership, the organization has generated more than $1.2 billion in financial impact for over 1 million farmers and workers across 70 countries.

A globally recognized social entrepreneur, Paul has been honored by Fast Company, the Skoll Foundation, and the World Economic Forum for his visionary leadership in sustainable business and ethical trade. Today, he continues to push for greater transparency, justice, and opportunity across global food and apparel supply chains.

Connect with Paul Rice and Fair Trade USA:

🌍 Website: Fair Trade Certified 📘 Book: Every Purchase Matters: How Fair Trade Farmers, Companies, and Consumers Are Changing the World 📸 Instagram: Follow Fair Trade Certified 👍 Facebook: Like Fair Trade USA

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

331. Soil, Stewardship & Safe Food: Kyle Becker on Growing Becker Farms Apr 30, 2025

What does it take to build a thriving farm business while raising a family and stewarding the land for the next generation? Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Kyle Becker, owner of Becker Farms in Moorland, Indiana. Since 2007, Kyle and his wife, Emily, have grown their farm from a small freezer beef operation into a diversified livestock farm offering beef, pork, chicken, turkey, eggs, and local milk. In addition to running the farm, Kyle works as a food animal veterinarian, serving dairy and beef farms across Indiana and Ohio. With a deep focus on soil health, responsible stewardship, and producing nutrient-dense food, the Beckers are committed to providing safe, high-quality products to their community.

Tune in to hear how Kyle balances farming, veterinary work, and family life — and why soil health is at the root of it all.

In This Episode, You'll Hear:

Farm beginnings: Kyle shares the story behind Becker Farms and their mission to raise safe, healthy meats [1:32]
Land and livestock: How they manage their acreage and raise multiple animal proteins [11:50]
USDA challenges: Kyle's perspective on the regulatory hurdles farmers face [18:53]
Indiana regulations: The specific rules that impact their farm operations [27:52]
Bird flu impacts: How Becker Farms navigated the challenges of avian influenza outbreaks [28:38]
Turkey production: What raising and marketing turkeys looks like on their farm [36:34]
Marketing strategies: How Becker Farms connects with customers through farmers markets and online sales [39:56]
Words of wisdom: Kyle's advice for beginning farmers and lessons learned along the way [49:53]

Don't miss this episode if you're curious about building a diversified livestock operation and creating a meaningful connection with your community through high-quality, local food!

Connect with Becker Farms:

🌍 Website: Becker Farms📸 Instagram: Follow Becker Farms📖 Facebook: Like Becker Farms

About the Guest: Kyle Becker is the owner of Becker Farms in northeast Henry County, Indiana, where he and his wife, Emily, raise beef, pork, poultry, and eggs with a focus on soil health and environmental stewardship. Raised on a livestock and grain farm in Wayne County, Kyle developed a love for farming early on and pursued his passion through a B.S. in Animal Science and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from Purdue University. Alongside farming, Kyle serves as a food animal veterinarian for Heritage Vet Partners, working with dairy and beef farms across Indiana and Ohio. Since founding Becker Farms in 2007, Kyle and Emily have expanded their offerings and built a loyal customer base at farmers markets and through local delivery. Their mission is simple but powerful: to grow nutrient-dense, responsibly raised food while improving the land for future generations.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

330. Pesticide-Free and Purpose-Filled: Taylor Bemis on Running Tumbleweed Farm Apr 22, 2025

What does it look like to farm beyond organic on a small scale with big impact?

On this episode, Michael is joined by Taylor Bemis, co-owner of Tumbleweed Farm in Oregon's Hood River Valley. Since 2012, Taylor and his wife, cookbook author Andrea Bemis, have been growing vibrant, pesticide-free produce on just over two acres. Together, they run a 160-member CSA and sell at the Hood River Farmers Market.

With a strong focus on educating their community about the nutritional power of fresh, local food, Taylor and Andrea go beyond organic standards—often labeling their vegetables with the health benefits right in the box.

Tune in to hear how they built their farm from scratch, how Taylor approaches efficiency, and what keeps their CSA community coming back year after year.

Episode Highlights:

Tumbleweed's Story: How Taylor got started farming in the Pacific Northwest [1:42]
Nutritional Value: Why Taylor highlights the health benefits of each veggie in the CSA [9:40]
What Grows Best: The seasonal vegetables that anchor Tumbleweed's offerings [12:23]
Labor and Logistics: How they staff the farm and balance the busy seasons [17:14]
Climate Challenges: What it's like to grow in the unique Hood River Valley [28:18]
CSA and Market Strategy: How Taylor manages customer experience and consistency [36:17]
Small Farm Systems: What has helped Tumbleweed Farm become more efficient over time [41:23]

Don't miss this episode if you've ever wondered how to run a thriving small farm while educating your community about the true value of healthy, local food.

About the Guest:

Taylor Bemis is the co-owner of Tumbleweed Farm in Mount Hood, Oregon, where he's been growing nutrient-dense, pesticide-free vegetables since 2012. Originally from Concord, Massachusetts, Taylor farms alongside his wife, Andrea Bemis, a cookbook author and passionate advocate for real food. Together, they've built a highly engaged CSA program and market presence that not only feeds their community but also educates customers on the health benefits of eating locally and seasonally. Their focus on transparency, soil health, and simplicity in farming continues to inspire a loyal following—and a healthier food system.

📲 Connect with Tumbleweed Farm:

🌍 Website: Tumbleweed Farm 📸 Instagram: Follow Tumbleweed Farm📖 Andrea's Recipes & Cookbooks: Dishing up the Dirt

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

329. Collaboration Over Competition: How Two Farmers Built Urban Roots Collective Apr 15, 2025

What happens when two first-generation farmers decide to team up instead of compete?

Today on the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jody Prosser and Mady Hastings, co-owners of Urban Roots Collective in Simpsonville, South Carolina. These first-generation female farmers each started out with their own small farms and no prior ag experience—but when they met, they quickly realized they could grow more and serve more together.

Now operating as a team, they're cultivating vegetables, flowers, and animals on regenerative principles and selling through a unique farmstand model that's as much about community as it is about food.

Tune in to hear how they built Urban Roots from the ground up, the lessons they've learned in soil health, collaboration, and customer engagement, and what's next for this dynamic duo.

Episode Highlights:

The Origin Story: How did Mady and Jody move from running competing farms to joining forces? [1:45]
Soil Strategies: How they approach soil fertility and composting in a tough growing region [9:00]
Animals on the Farm: The breeds they raise and how they find niche markets for their products [14:21]
Floral Focus: How flowers play into their farm's identity and offerings [17:11]
Selling Plants: What they've learned about marketing and moving plant starts [26:16]
Sales Strategy: Their approach to encouraging customer loyalty and repeat visits [31:52]
The Trading Post: How this farmstand supports both their business and local makers [36:58]
Future Goals: What they're dreaming up next for Urban Roots Collective [38:50]

Don't miss Mady and Jody's inspiring story of how teamwork, tenacity, and a shared vision transformed two solo farms into a thriving collaborative rooted in regenerative practices and deep community connection.

About the Guests:

Urban Roots Collective is a regenerative farm offering top notch, "beyond organic" flowers, produce, heritage meats, eggs and more. Jody and Mady are competitors turned business partners after a friendship blossomed through shared interests and their "same person, different font" energy. Once their separate businesses collided, Urban Roots Collective was born; expanding their reach, impact, and mission ten fold.

📲 Connect with Urban Roots Collective:

🌍 Website: Urban Roots Collective 📸 Instagram: Follow Urban Roots Collective 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Urban Roots Collective

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

328. From Grass-Fed to Wood-Fired: Pizza Farmer Maren Beard of Luna Valley Farm Apr 08, 2025

How can agritourism deepen community connections and support a diversified farm?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Maren Beard, co-owner of Luna Valley Farm in Decorah, Iowa. Maren and her husband, Tom, run a certified organic regenerative farm, raising 100% grass-fed cattle and sheep while also serving up delicious wood-fired pizzas to their community.

Tune in to hear how Luna Valley is creating connection through food and what it really takes to run a thriving pizza farm!

Episode Highlights:

Origin Story: How did Maren and Tom get started with Luna Valley Farm? [1:41]
Turning a Barn into a Pizzeria: What inspired the idea for pizza nights, and how did it grow? [6:49]
Day-to-Day Life: What does a typical week look like on Luna Valley? [8:51]
Wood-Fired Pizza: What are the most popular pizza offerings, and what makes them so special? [16:47]
Cattle Farming: How does the grass-fed cattle operation fit into their regenerative practices? [24:45]
Hindsight: What would Maren do differently if she were to start over again? [32:36]

Don't miss this episode to hear how Maren is blending food, farming, and hospitality to build something truly special in rural Iowa!

📲 Connect with Luna Valley Farm: 🌎 Website: Luna Valley Farm 📸 Instagram: Follow @lunavalleyfarm 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Luna Valley Farm

About the Guest:

After a youth spent in rural Wisconsin, Maren studied Environmental Studies and Spanish at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. After earning a M.S. in Sustainable Food Systems she worked on campus sustainability issues in the Luther College Center for Sustainable Communities for nearly a decade. These days she is a full time pizza farmer! When she's not preparing for and hosting pizza nights, she loves taking local adventures with Fritz (3), Otto (1) and her partner Tom.

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, Real Organic Project.

Are you an organic farmer looking to communicate the premium quality of your milk, meat, fruits, veggies, or CSA shares to shoppers?

Through a no-cost, add-on certification to USDA certified-organic, Real Organic Project aims to bring organic back to its high-integrity roots, prioritizing healthy soil, humane treatment of animals, labor protections and a more regionally based agriculture for community well-being. The application deadline is coming up on Tuesday, April 15th. Visit https://realorganicproject.org/apply to submit an application and join the movement today!

All applications received by April 15th are guaranteed a 2025 inspection.

👉Visit https://realorganicproject.org/apply to apply today!

327. Urban Farming for Food Justice: Devon Wilson on Sunlight Gardens Apr 01, 2025

How can urban farming transform communities and increase access to fresh, local food?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Devon Wilson, founder and farmer of Sunlight Gardens, a two-acre organic urban farm in Battle Creek, Michigan. Devon started Sunlight Gardens to increase access to fresh, local food and inspire the next generation of farmers through their fresh corner store, community events, and Farm Squad youth program.

Devon's passion for food justice stems from personal experience—witnessing multiple family members struggle with diet-related illnesses. Now, he's working toward equitable food systems and sustainable change by bringing fresh produce to his community.

Tune in to hear how Devon and his team built Sunlight Gardens from the ground up and what's next for this thriving urban farm!

Episode Highlights:

Getting Started: How did Devon get into farming? [1:33]
Land Access: How did Sunlight Gardens acquire its current property? [5:05]
Fresh Corner Store: How did Farmacy come to be, and what do they offer? [14:08]
Global Insights: What did Devon learn from his fellowship in Japan? [27:56]
Farming in Japan: How is agriculture evolving, and what's changing for the better? [38:45]
Looking Ahead: What's Devon's vision for the future of Sunlight Gardens? [42:47]
New Farmers: What advice does Devon have for aspiring farmers? [46:29]

Don't miss this episode to hear how Devon is building a thriving urban farm and inspiring the next generation of farmers!

About the Guest:

Devon Wilson is the founder and CEO of Sunlight Gardens, a two-acre organic urban farm in Battle Creek, Michigan. Sunlight Gardens' mission is to increase access to local food and inspire future farmers. The farm features a fresh corner store (Farmacy), six hoop houses, a composting area, an event venue, and a fruit orchard. Through partnerships with local businesses and institutions, Devon and his team are making eating locally fun and accessible.

📲 Connect with Sunlight Gardens: 🌎 Website: Sunlight Gardens 📸 Instagram: Follow @farmervon_ 👍🏼 Facebook: Like Sunlight Gardens

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, Real Organic Project.

Are you an organic farmer looking to communicate the premium quality of your milk, meat, fruits, veggies, or CSA shares to shoppers?

Through a no-cost, add-on certification to USDA certified-organic, Real Organic Project aims to bring organic back to its high-integrity roots, prioritizing healthy soil, humane treatment of animals, labor protections and a more regionally based agriculture for community well-being. The application deadline is coming up on Tuesday, April 15th. Visit https://realorganicproject.org/apply to submit an application and join the movement today!

All applications received by April 15th are guaranteed a 2025 inspection.

👉Visit https://realorganicproject.org/apply to apply today!

326. Reinventing Beef: Justin Pettit on Santa Carota's Carrot-Finished Cattle Mar 25, 2025

How does carrot-finished beef set a new standard for flavor and sustainability?

In this episode, we're joined by Justin Pettit, third-generation rancher and co-founder of Santa Carota Beef—the only grass-fed, carrot-finished beef on the market. By finishing cattle on a 95% carrot-based diet, Justin has crafted a nutrient-rich, flavorful beef that's earned praise from top chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay.

Tune in to hear how Justin is redefining high-quality beef with a focus on sustainability, nutrition, and exceptional taste!

Episode Highlights:

Ranching Roots: How did Santa Carota Beef get started? [1:45]
Nutrient Profile: What makes carrot-finished beef different? [7:33]
Life Cycle: What is the journey of Santa Carota's cattle? [9:56]
Availability: How can customers get their hands on this unique beef? [15:05]
Future Plans: What's next for Santa Carota Beef? [18:14]
Team and Operations: How big is the Santa Carota team? [23:15]
Farm Life: What's Justin's favorite part of ranching? [29:02]

Don't miss this episode on how a family ranching tradition evolved into a game-changing approach to beef production!

About the Guest:

Justin Pettit is a third-generation cattle rancher and the visionary co-founder of Santa Carota Beef. Raised in a ranching family, Justin has always been passionate about sustainable livestock management and producing the highest-quality beef possible. His innovative carrot-finished beef has earned national recognition in The New York Times and Food & Wine, setting a new standard for flavor, nutrition, and environmental responsibility.

Justin lives in Dallas, Texas, with his wife and three children, balancing family life with his mission to bring healthier, more sustainable beef to consumers across the country.

📲 Connect with Santa Carota Beef: 🌎 Website: Santa Carota 📷 Instagram: Follow @santacarotabeef 👍 Facebook: Like Santa Carota Beef

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

325. Farming on One Acre: Sara Krohn & Sam Odin on Village Farmstead Mar 18, 2025

How can small-scale farmers maximize productivity while staying true to their values?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Sara Krohn and Sam Odin, owners of Village Farmstead, a USDA-Certified Organic farm in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Farming on just one acre, they prioritize human-scale farming, soil health, and a deep connection to their community.

Sara and Sam are also part of a 14-acre housing cooperative, where their farm integrates with a broader vision of sustainable living. They rely on hand tools, minimal soil disturbance, and permanent raised beds to create a financially and ecologically sustainable farm.

Tune in to hear how they make it all work while maintaining a thriving, small-scale operation!

Episode Highlights:

Farming Beginnings: How did Sara and Sam get started in farming? [1:39]
Farm Layout: What is the setup of Village Farmstead? [4:24]
Soil Fertility: How do they build and maintain soil health? [8:22]
Weekly Schedule: What does a typical week look like on their farm? [15:25]
Soil Mix: What do they use for their seed-starting mix? [25:17]
Community Involvement: How does their workshare and communal living model work? [30:53]
Favorite Farm Tool: What tool do they rely on the most? [37:02]

Don't miss this episode on how small-scale farmers can maximize productivity, build soil health, and foster community while staying financially and ecologically sustainable!

About the Guests:

Village Farmstead is a small-scale, Certified Organic farm located on the bluffs of Lake Michigan, just south of Milwaukee. They specialize in growing nutrient-dense food while minimizing soil disturbance and using sustainable farming techniques. Through their farm and cooperative housing model, Sara and Sam are building a resilient, community-focused food system.

📲 Connect with Sara and Sam:

🌎 Website: villagefarmstead.com 📷 Instagram: Follow @villagefarmstead 👍 Facebook: Like Village Farmstead

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

324. Exploring Agroforestry: Ben Raskin and Andy Dibben on Silvohorticulture Mar 11, 2025

How can farmers integrate trees into vegetable production to enhance yield, biodiversity, and resilience?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Ben Raskin and Andy Dibben, co-authors of Silvohorticulture, the first detailed guide on agroforestry for vegetable farms. With extensive experience in commercial horticulture and agroforestry design, Ben and Andy provide practical insights into how farmers can successfully integrate trees into their growing systems.

Tune in to learn how agroforestry can optimize farm productivity, improve soil health, manage pests, and reduce costs—all while fostering biodiversity and resilience in changing climates.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Beginnings: How did Ben and Andy get into agriculture? [1:44]
Origins of Silvohorticulture: What inspired their book and approach? [3:15]
Managing Tree Roots: How do they prevent competition with vegetables? [15:43]
Crop Compatibility: What crops thrive in their agroforestry systems? [19:33]
Lessons from Other Farms: What innovative agroforestry practices have they seen?[28:42]
Sustainable Coppicing: What tree species are ideal for coppicing? [40:16]
Getting Started: What advice do they have for new farmers? [45:34]
Hindsight Lessons: What would they change if they started over? [53:02]

Don't miss this episode on how silvohorticulture can revolutionize farming by integrating trees with vegetable production!

To learn more about Ben and Andy's book, visit Silvohorticulture.

About the Guests:

Ben Raskin has 30 years of experience in farming and horticulture. As the agroforestry lead at the Soil Association, he coordinates agroforestry at Eastbrook Farm in Wiltshire, writes books such as The Woodchip Handbook, and serves as an independent consultant.

Andy Dibben is an organic vegetable farmer with over 15 years of experience. As Head Grower at Abbey Home Farm, he advocates for removing harmful agrochemicals from food production and promotes sustainable farming practices.

📲 Connect with Ben and Andy:

Ben's Website: www.benraskin.uk
Andy's Farm: The Organic Farm Shop
Ben's Instagram: Follow @benlraskin
Ben's Facebook: Like Ben Raskin

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

323. Digitizing Farm Operations: Tracey Wiedmeyer on Gripp's Role in Ag Tech Mar 04, 2025

How can farmers streamline record-keeping and operations management with technology?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Tracey Wiedmeyer, co-founder of Gripp. Growing up on a farm in rural Wisconsin, Tracey combined his deep-rooted agricultural knowledge with his expertise in technology to create a platform that simplifies farm operations. Gripp centralizes everything from equipment tracking to team communication, making it easier for farmers to stay organized and efficient.

Tune in to hear how Tracey and his team are transforming record-keeping, winning industry recognition, and shaping the future of agricultural technology.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Beginnings: What was it like for Tracey growing up on a farm? [1:39]
Career Path: How did Tracey's journey lead him to agricultural technology? [3:38]
The Birth of Gripp: What convinced Tracey to launch Gripp? [8:25]
Organic Farming: Can Gripp be useful for organic record-keeping? [16:50]
Ease of Use: How tech-friendly is Gripp for farmers? [20:24]
Industry Recognition: How did Gripp win the American Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge? [25:08]
Future Innovations: What trends is Tracey seeing in AgTech? [27:07]
What's Next: Where is Gripp headed in the coming years? [30:47]

Don't miss this episode on how digital tools can revolutionize farm management and streamline operations with Tracey Wiedmeyer of Gripp!

About the Guest:

Tracey Wiedmeyer, co-founder of Gripp, combines his farming upbringing in rural Wisconsin with a hands-on, tech-savvy approach to solving agricultural challenges. With a focus on simplifying record-keeping and communication for farmers, Gripp provides user-friendly tools that make managing operations more efficient. Tracey's expertise in both farming and technology has earned Gripp industry recognition, including a win at the American Farm Bureau Ag Innovation Challenge.

📲 Connect with Tracey:

Website: www.gripp.ag
Instagram: Follow Gripp
Facebook: Like Gripp
LinkedIn: Get a Gripp

The Thriving Farmer Podcast would like to thank our sponsor, GRIPP.

Got lots of people, places and things to track? Gripp is the easiest way for farmers to track anything important to their operation. With flexible QR code tracking, keeping digital records is a snap with Ag's easiest operator-first mobile app centralizing alerts, reminders, electronic forms and team conversations. With simple month-to-month pricing and no long-term commitments, Gripp can transform and streamline your operation, so you can focus on what's most important—growing.

For a limited time get 15% of any monthly or yearly subscription at www.gripp.ag/pricing with the code THRIVEIN25

👉 Try out Gripp today!

322. Cultivating Local Food Systems: Trisha Bates on Urban Farming and Community Feb 25, 2025

How can farmers and chefs work together to strengthen local food systems?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Trisha Bates, founder of Urban American Farmer in Austin, Texas. Trisha's background in urban planning and the restaurant industry has shaped her mission to bridge the gap between farms, chefs, and consumers.

Tune in to hear how her work in foodscaping, event planning, and farm education has helped to create a more connected and resilient local food system.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Beginnings: How did Trisha get into farming? [1:36]
Scope of Work: What is Trisha's current role and responsibilities? [8:22]
Crop Selection: What kinds of crops is she growing? [11:20]
Community Engagement: What kinds of festivals and events does Trisha run? [13:19]
Foodscaping Approach: What does Urban American Farmer do with foodscaping? [19:44]
Lessons Learned: What would Trisha change if she could start her farming journey over again? [27:14]

Don't miss this episode on the power of urban agriculture, foodscaping, and building stronger local food systems with Trisha Bates of Urban American Farmer!

About the Guest:

Trisha Bates is the founder of Urban American Farmer, a business dedicated to fostering engagement in local food systems through foodscaping, community events, and chef partnerships. In 2021, she co-founded Field Guide Festival, an Austin-based food system festival that brings farmers and chefs together in an interactive experience. Trisha is passionate about sustainable food production, mentorship in agriculture, and helping people reconnect with their food sources.

Connect with Trisha Bates:

Website: urbanamericanfarmer.com
Instagram: Follow @urbanamericanfarmer

This episode is brought to you by Farm on Central and Simonian Production Services

Looking for high-quality, organic almonds grown with regenerative practices? Farm on Central's online shop has partnered with Simonian Production Services to offer premium, nutrient-dense almonds straight from their farm in California's San Joaquin Valley. With a focus on soil health and sustainable farming, Jimmy and his team ensure that every almond is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Whether you're a chef, retailer, or just love great almonds, reach out today to learn more about bulk ordering and direct farm-to-consumer sales!

👉 Click here to order bulk almonds!

321. Josh Galt on Transforming Agriculture with Black Soldier Flies Feb 18, 2025

How can insects transform agriculture and waste management?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Josh Galt, a global nomad turned regenerative agriculture innovator. Now based in Mexico, Josh is pioneering the use of black soldier fly larvae for waste management, animal feed, and organic fertilizer. He also collaborates with smallholder farmers to develop consumer products like coffee, chocolate, and tropical fruits grown in BSFL-enriched soil.

Tune in to hear how black soldier flies are transforming agriculture by turning waste into a sustainable resource for soil health and animal feed!

Episode Highlights:

Josh's Journey: Where is Josh currently located? [0:53]
Industry Experience: What programs has Josh been involved with? [2:55]
Insect Farming 101: What is the life cycle of black soldier flies? [11:09]
Harvesting Process: How does Josh harvest black soldier flies? [21:35]
Future of Insects in Agriculture: What does Josh see for the future of insect farming? [28:23]
Beekeeping & Innovation: What does Josh do with honey bees? [47:00]

Don't miss this episode on how black soldier flies are revolutionizing waste management, animal feed, and organic farming through regenerative agriculture!

About the Guest:

Josh Galt is a regenerative agriculture innovator who has lived on various types of farms across the world. He specializes in black soldier fly farming for waste management, natural animal feed, and organic fertilizer. Now based in Mexico, he and his wife work with smallholder farmers to develop consumer products like coffee, chocolate, and a new honeybee product called beeghee.

Connect with Josh Galt:

Website: Josh Galt
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Seedtime! Are you ready to simplify your crop planning? Seedtime is a powerful tool designed to help farmers and gardeners plan their growing season with ease. Customize your schedule based on your location, get reminders for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting, and track your progress with the built-in journal. Start farming smarter at PlanWithSeedtime.com. 👉🏼 Learn more about Seedtime today!

320. Homestead Dairy Sheep: Rachel Hester on Raising a Sustainable Flock Feb 11, 2025

How can homesteaders successfully raise dairy sheep for milk, fiber, and more?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Rachel Hester, sustainable sheep farmer and author of The Guide to Homestead Dairy Sheep. Rachel and her husband, Kyle, started farming in 2017 after purchasing an abused, foreclosed 8-acre property. Passionate about sustainable farming and inspired by her family's health journey, Rachel advocates for the benefits of sheep-based products like milk, wool, and heirloom-quality textiles, blending tradition with modern farm life.

Whether you're considering dairy sheep for your farm or just curious about their role in sustainable agriculture, this episode is packed with insights!

Episode Highlights:

Getting Started: How did Rachel begin her sheep farming journey? [1:00]
Breed Selection: What are the best dairy-specific sheep? [3:10]
Lamb Nutrition: How does Rachel ensure proper nutrition? [11:08]
Mixed Breeds: Why does she maintain a diverse flock? [14:44]
Parasite Management: What strategies help keep her flock healthy? [18:02]
Marketing & Sales: How does she sell sheep products like milk and wool? [23:00]
Challenges & Realities: Who is homestead sheep farming not for? [37:49]

Don't miss Rachel's insights on choosing the right dairy sheep breeds, managing parasites in a small flock, and how sheep milk and wool can add value to a homestead farm.

About the Guest:

Rachel Hester is the author of The Guide to Homestead Dairy Sheep, the only book in print dedicated to raising sheep for milk. Based in Central Kentucky, she and her family manage an 8.5-acre homestead with a flock of 20-30 sheep. Passionate about the benefits of sheep milk and wool, Rachel also handspins and knits wool into heirloom-quality textiles.

Connect with Rachel Hester:

Website: Whoopsy Daisy Farm
Her Book: The Guide to Homestead Dairy Sheep
Instagram: Follow Whoopsy Daisy Farm
Facebook: Like Whoopsy Daisy Farm
YouTube: Subscribe to Whoopsy Daisy Farm

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

Are you ready to simplify your crop planning? Seedtime is a powerful tool designed to help farmers and gardeners plan their growing season with ease. Customize your schedule based on your location, get reminders for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting, and track your progress with the built-in journal.

For a limited time, get $100 off Lifetime Access or 40% off your first year. Start farming smarter at PlanWithSeedtime.com.

👉🏼 Learn more about Seedtime today!

319. Regenerative Almond Farming: Jimmy Simonian on Water, Bees, and Soil Health Feb 04, 2025

How can regenerative farming practices help address the challenges facing almond farmers in California?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we're joined by Jimmy Simonian, owner of Simonian Production Services in Fresno, California. Jimmy and his wife, Jennifer, started farming with no prior experience. However, through dedication and a commitment to organic and regenerative practices, they've built a thriving almond farm.

From navigating California's water challenges to improving soil health with innovative techniques, Jimmy shares his insights into the evolving landscape of farming.

Tune in to hear Jimmy's journey and the challenges and innovations shaping modern almond farming!

Episode Highlights:

Diverse Crops: What crops does Jimmy grow on his farm? [2:15]
Optimizing with Bees: How does Jimmy work with bees on the farm? [6:50]
Cover Crops: How does Jimmy implement cover crops? [10:22]
Soil Biology: What steps does Jimmy take to enhance soil biology? [12:16]
Labor on the Farm: How many H2A workers are employed at Simonian Production Services? [21:48]
Water Management: How does Jimmy manage water on the farm? [24:28]
Almond Industry Challenges: What's happening with the California almond industry? [32:43]
Sap Testing: What is the sap test, and how does it improve almond quality? [39:59]
Long-Term Goals: What are Jimmy's long-term goals for Simonian Production Services? [55:20]

Don't miss Jimmy's insights on how sap testing is helping to improve almond quality and why regenerative practices are the future of sustainable farming.

About the Guest: Jimmy Simonian is the owner of Simonian Production Services, located south of Fresno, California. With no prior farming experience, Jimmy and his wife, Jennifer, took on the challenge of organic almond farming, earning their certification after three years of dedication. Today, they focus on regenerative farming techniques that prioritize soil health, microbial activity, and nutrient-dense food production. Their commitment to sustainable agriculture has led them to innovative solutions like sap testing, compost teas, and eliminating fungicides in favor of mineral nutrition. Jimmy is passionate about growing high-quality food and believes that consumers deserve better.

If you'd like to connect with Jimmy, please email him at jimmysimonian@gmail.com.

This episode is brought to you by Farm on Central and Simonian Production Services

Looking for high-quality, organic almonds grown with regenerative practices? Farm on Central's online shop has partnered with Simonian Production Services to offer premium, nutrient-dense almonds straight from their farm in California's San Joaquin Valley. With a focus on soil health and sustainable farming, Jimmy and his team ensure that every almond is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Whether you're a chef, retailer, or just love great almonds, reach out today to learn more about bulk ordering and direct farm-to-consumer sales!

👉 Click here to order bulk almonds!

318. Blending Tradition with Agri-Tourism: Karl Wiegandt on The Berry Farm Jan 28, 2025

What innovative strategies help farms thrive as community hubs in urban and tropical settings?

In this episode, Michael chats with Karl Wiegandt, owner of The Berry Farm in Miami, Florida. As a third-generation farmer, Karl has transformed his family's farm into a vibrant community hub, offering seasonal festivals, u-pick experiences, and family-friendly activities. From strawberries to sunflower fields and even a wedding venue, The Berry Farm is designed to offer something for everyone, blending tradition with innovation to connect visitors with agriculture in a meaningful way.

Tune in as Karl shares how they manage crop rotations, host large-scale events, and create a unique farm experience in an urban, tropical setting. Episode Highlights:

A Family Legacy: What brought the Wiegandt family to Florida? [1:11]
Strawberry Seasons: When and how does The Berry Farm grow strawberries? [7:53]
Crop Rotations: How do they adjust crops according to the weather? [10:39]
Event Hosting: What kinds of events does The Berry Farm offer? [11:23]
Biggest Attractions: Which events draw the largest crowds? [17:21]
Wedding Venue Management: How do they handle their wedding operations? [26:09]
Top Sellers: What's the most profitable food offering at the farm? [27:18]
Lessons Learned: What would Karl do differently if he could start over? [33:03]

Don't miss Karl's insights into creating a farm that is as much an experience as it is a thriving business!

About the Guest: Karl Wiegandt is the owner of The Berry Farm, located in Miami's Redland area. With deep roots in farming, Karl has revitalized his family's operation into a leading agri-tourism destination. By combining u-pick crops, seasonal festivals, and immersive farm activities, Karl continues to bring "a piece of country to Miami," making The Berry Farm a cherished part of the community.

Connect with Karl:

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

Are you ready to simplify your crop planning? Seedtime is a powerful tool designed to help farmers and gardeners plan their growing season with ease. Customize your schedule based on your location, get reminders for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting, and track your progress with the built-in journal.

For a limited time, get $100 off Lifetime Access or 40% off your first year. Start farming smarter at PlanWithSeedtime.com.

👉🏼 Learn m ore about Seedtime today!

317. Simplifying Business: Systems, VAs, and Bookkeeping with Nathan Hirsch Jan 21, 2025

What does it take to scale a business, streamline operations, and keep your books in check?

In this episode, Michael chats with Nathan Hirsch, a lifelong entrepreneur and co-founder of multiple successful ventures, including FreeUp and EcomBalance. Nathan shares how he went from selling textbooks on Amazon to building systems and processes for hiring remote talent and transitioning into bookkeeping services tailored for entrepreneurs.

Tune in to learn how Nathan's focus on clean bookkeeping, efficient systems, and virtual assistants can help you make smarter business decisions and reduce stress as you grow your business.

Episode Highlights:

Entrepreneurial Beginnings: How did Nathan get started in business? [1:39]
Building Systems: What systems and processes helped him scale his ventures? [5:51]
From FreeUp to Bookkeeping: Why did Nathan transition into bookkeeping after selling FreeUp? [8:38]
Banking Solutions: Which online banks does Nathan recommend for entrepreneurs? [19:59]
How to Connect: Where can listeners learn more about Nathan's services? [22:51]

Don't miss Nathan's insights into scaling a business, simplifying financial management, and the key role of virtual assistants in entrepreneurial success.

About the Guest:

Nathan Hirsch is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for simplifying business operations for entrepreneurs. He is the co-founder of FreeUp, EcomBalance, and Outsource School, where he shares his expertise in remote hiring, bookkeeping, and scaling businesses through streamlined systems and processes.

Connect with Nathan:

Website: EcomBalance
LinkedIn: Nathan Hirsch

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

Are you ready to simplify your crop planning? Seedtime is a powerful tool designed to help farmers and gardeners plan their growing season with ease. Customize your schedule based on your location, get reminders for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting, and track your progress with the built-in journal.

For a limited time, get $100 off Lifetime Access or 40% off your first year. Start farming smarter at PlanWithSeedtime.com.

👉🏼 Learn m ore about Seedtime today!

316. Farming with Intention: Alicia Brown and Ben Stein on Edible Uprising Farm Jan 14, 2025

What does it take to create a thriving, sustainable farm in an urban environment?

In this episode, Michael talks with Alicia Brown and Ben Stein, co-owners of Edible Uprising Farm in Troy, New York. Since 2019, Alicia and Ben have been transforming their 1.5-acre no-till vegetable farm into a powerhouse of productivity and sustainability, growing over 250 varieties of vegetables and flowers. Guided by their motto, "everything with intention," they thoughtfully approach each decision to maximize short-term efficiency while safeguarding long-term health for the land, their team, and their community.

Tune in to hear their inspiring journey, from starting a farm from scratch to overcoming challenges like the pandemic and extreme weather, all while building a thriving business and family.

Episode Highlights:

Starting Fresh: What inspired Alicia and Ben to start Edible Uprising Farm? [3:32]
Urban Farming: How does their farm operate in the heart of Troy, NY? [5:11]
Growing with Intention: What crops do they grow, and how do they adapt to challenges? [11:02]
Creative Sales: How do they tackle selling tricky crops like eggplant? [17:26]
Balancing Family and Farming: How did they manage parenting while farming? [23:57]
Building a Team: What have they learned about managing a small, resilient team? [30:50]
Scaling with Purpose: What lessons did they take from scaling up and scaling back down? [41:31]
Fertility Focus: What does their soil fertility program look like? [44:29]

Don't miss this engaging conversation as Alicia and Ben share how they've built a thriving farm with sustainability and intention at the forefront.

About the Guest:

Alicia Brown and Ben Stein are the co-owners of Edible Uprising Farm, a 1.5-acre no-till vegetable farm in Troy, New York. Since 2019, they've grown over 250 varieties of vegetables and flowers on raised beds, all while adhering to organic techniques and prioritizing sustainable farming practices. Their motto, "everything with intention," guides every aspect of their work, from soil health to community impact.

Connect with Edible Uprising Farm:

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

Want to boost revenue and attract new customers? Partner with Harvest Hosts, a free marketing platform generating $50M annually for farms and small businesses! Connect with 250,000 travelers eager to support farms like yours by offering space for one RV overnight—no hookups needed. Our members will support your farm, and you keep 100% of your revenue. Visit Harvest Hosts today.

👉🏼 Learn more about becoming a Host Location today!

315. Farm Marketing & Self-Sufficiency: Marjory Wildcraft's Digital Strategy Jan 07, 2025

What does it take to inspire a movement toward homegrown food while mastering digital marketing?

In this episode, Michael chats with Marjory Wildcraft, founder of The Grow Network. Marjory shares her journey from engineering to homesteading, driven by the need for local food production. She discusses the power of backyard food production for financial and nutritional independence, along with key marketing strategies for reaching your audience, understanding customer psychology, and expanding your reach.

Whether you're a seasoned farmer or new to gardening, Marjory's insights are a must-listen!

Episode Highlights:

Backyard Food Production: Why is growing food at home important for self-sufficiency? [9:02]
Digital Marketing for Farmers: How can farmers effectively use online marketing to reach their audience? [14:10]
Understanding Customer Psychology: How does Marjory use customer psychology to improve her marketing? [24:59]
Effective Marketing Strategies: What tips does Marjory have for farmers looking to build a digital presence? [34:05]
Simplifying Food Production: What advice does Marjory have for beginners growing their own food? [49:15]
Building Trust with Your Audience: Why is trust crucial in marketing and growing a food business? [32:36]

Here is the link for the website Marjory and Michael discuss during the episode:

http://www.backyardfoodsystem.com/

Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Marjory Wildcraft as she shares her mission to make homegrown food accessible to everyone and how you can be part of the movement.

About the Guest:

Marjory Wildcraft is the founder of The Grow Network and a global advocate for homegrown food. She's been featured by National Geographic and has inspired hundreds of thousands to embrace self-sufficiency. Marjory's work has won Reuter's Food Sustainability Media Award and she is the author of the best-selling book The Grow System: The Essential Guide to Modern Self-Sufficient Living. Through her platform, Marjory teaches people how to grow their own food, make medicine, and live off the land.

Connect with Marjory:

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

Want to boost revenue and attract new customers? Partner with Harvest Hosts, a free marketing platform generating $50M annually for farms and small businesses! Connect with 250,000 travelers eager to support farms like yours by offering space for one RV overnight—no hookups needed. Our members will support your farm, and you keep 100% of your revenue. Visit Harvest Hosts today.

👉🏼 Learn more about becoming a Host Location today!

314. Shelby Watson-Hampton on Wine Grapes, Weddings, and Women in Agriculture Dec 17, 2024

What does it take to turn a traditional family farm into a thriving hub of agritourism, sustainability, and empowerment?

In this episode, Michael chats with Shelby Watson-Hampton, a passionate advocate for women in agriculture and co-owner of Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards in Maryland. Shelby shares how her family transitioned their farm from traditional crops to a flourishing vineyard and winery, blending sustainable practices with community-driven events.

Shelby also dives into her advocacy work, her book Grace, Grit & Lipstick, and the importance of celebrating women in agriculture. Tune in to hear insights on everything from the lifecycle of a grape to managing a wedding venue, packed with tips for farmers aiming to diversify and strengthen their community connections.

Episode Highlights:

From Hogs to Grapes: Why did Robin Hill Farm transition to wine grapes? [1:03]
The Vineyard Lifecycle: How long does it take to grow and harvest grapes? [4:13]
Community Harvest Days: How do they involve the community during harvest? [9:31]
Driving Winery Traffic: What strategies bring visitors to the vineyard? [18:18]
Barn Weddings: What does it take to run a successful wedding venue? [25:38]
Overcoming Wedding Challenges: What's the wildest wedding story Shelby has? [27:50]
Celebrating Women in Ag: What inspired Shelby's book Grace, Grit & Lipstick? [30:39]

Don't miss Shelby's incredible journey, from farming roots to vineyard innovation, and her mission to empower the next generation of women in agriculture.

About the Guest: Shelby Watson-Hampton is a fourth-generation farmer, agricultural journalist, and author of Grace, Grit & Lipstick. She co-owns Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards in Maryland, where she grows wine grapes, hosts weddings, and creates community-focused events. Shelby is also the creator of The Farmed Life, a platform dedicated to connecting and celebrating women in farming and rural business.

Connect with Shelby:

Website: The Farmed Life
Instagram: Follow @the_farmed_life
Facebook: Like The Farmed Life on Facebook
Farm Website: Robin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Farm Instagram: Follow @robin_hill_farm_vineyards

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

Are you ready to simplify your crop planning? Seedtime is a powerful tool designed to help farmers and gardeners plan their growing season with ease. Customize your schedule based on your location, get reminders for seeding, transplanting, and harvesting, and track your progress with the built-in journal.

For a limited time, get $100 off Lifetime Access or 40% off your first year. Start farming smarter at PlanWithSeedtime.com.

313. Growing Agritourism: Regan Joehl on Crafting Family Farm Experiences Dec 10, 2024

How can a family farm balance tradition, innovation, and community connections?

In this episode, Michael chats with Regan Joehl, owner of Greene Fields Farm in Greenfield, Illinois. Regan, a fourth-generation farmer, has transformed his family's 30-acre farm into a thriving seasonal destination for thousands of visitors each fall. From pumpkins and gourds to apple picking and premium mums, Greene Fields Farm offers an unforgettable experience while fostering a deeper connection to the land.

Tune in as Regan shares insights on crop management, marketing strategies, and creating a farm environment that keeps customers coming back year after year.

Episode Highlights:

A Family Farm Legacy: How did Greene Fields Farm begin? [1:24]
Diversification Decisions: Why did they start raising pigs? [11:15]
Mum Production Tips: What size pots do they use for their mums? [15:26]
Land Management: What kind of land and acreage are they working with? [21:39]
Marketing Success: How does Greene Fields market their farm? [26:06]
The Farm Team: What does the Greene Fields team look like? [30:56]
Navigating Regulations: What challenges have they faced with government policies? [41:57]

Don't miss Regan's expert insights into creating a thriving farm business that combines tradition, family values, and innovative practices.

About the Guest:

Regan Joehl is a fourth-generation farmer and owner of Greene Fields Farm in Greenfield, Illinois. What began as a small pumpkin patch in 2016 has grown into a 30-acre farm that welcomes over 30,000 visitors each fall. Regan, his wife Christie, and their six children grow a variety of pumpkins, gourds, squash, premium mums, and apples, all while running a bustling seasonal farmstand. Dedicated to reconnecting families with the land, Greene Fields Farm has become a beloved destination for those seeking a slice of rural life.

Connect with Green Fields Farm:

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

Want to boost revenue and attract new customers? Partner with Harvest Hosts, a free marketing platform generating $50M annually for farms and small businesses! Connect with 250,000 travelers eager to support farms like yours by offering space for one RV overnight—no hookups needed. Our members will support your farm, and you keep 100% of your revenue. Visit Harvest Hosts today.

👉🏼 Learn more about becoming a Host Location today!

312. The Seed Farmer: Insights from Dan Brisebois Dec 03, 2024

How can farmers make seeds a profitable part of their farm business?

In this episode, Michael chats with Dan Brisebois, expert seed farmer, educator, and author of The Seed Farmer. Dan is a founding member of Tourne-Sol Cooperative Farm in Les Cèdres, Quebec, where he grows organic seeds and vegetables while sharing his knowledge through his podcast, blog, and Farmer Spreadsheet Academy.

Tune in as Dan discusses the ins and outs of seed farming, germination testing, and his tips for first-time seed growers, plus how he juggles the many hats he wears in the farming world.

Episode Highlights:

A Seed Farmer's Journey: How did Dan get started with seed farming? [1:37]
Tomato Growing Tips: How does Dan approach growing tomatoes for seed? [10:01]
Challenging Crops: What does Dan consider the hardest vegetables to grow for seed? [14:56]
First-Time Growers: Dan's advice for those starting with seed production [20:04]
Germination Testing: How does it work, and what should growers pay attention to? [28:35]
Flower Seed Harvesting: Are flowers a viable option for seed production? [34:18]

Don't miss Dan's expert insights into seed farming and his mission to help farms diversify and thrive with seed production.

About the Guest:

Dan Brisebois is a farmer, educator, and advocate for seed farming. He is the author of The Seed Farmer and co-author of Crop Planning for Organic Vegetable Growers. As a founding farmer of Tourne-Sol Cooperative Farm in Quebec, Dan grows organic seeds for both an online seed store and wholesale rack program while also producing organic vegetables for CSA baskets. He shares his expertise through his blog, podcast (The Seed Growers Podcast), and the Farmer Spreadsheet Academy.

Connect with Dan:

Website: Dan Brisebois
Instagram: Follow @danbrisebois.farm
Dan's new Book: The Seed Farmer

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

Want to boost revenue and attract new customers? Partner with Harvest Hosts, a free marketing platform generating $50M annually for farms and small businesses! Connect with 250,000 travelers eager to support farms like yours by offering space for one RV overnight—no hookups needed. Our members will support your farm, and you keep 100% of your revenue. Visit Harvest Hosts today.

👉🏼 Learn more about becoming a Host Location today!

311. Farming Beyond Frost: Sam Knapp's Storage Crop Success in Alaska Nov 26, 2024

How can farmers thrive in extreme climates while focusing on storage crops and winter sales?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Sam Knapp who is the co-owner and primary farmer at Offbeet Farm in Fairbanks, Alaska. With a master's degree in plant ecology and years of experience on vegetable farms, Sam built his farm from the ground up to focus entirely on storage crops and winter sales through a winter CSA and local markets.

Tune in to hear how Sam navigates permafrost and water access as well as the unique challenges and rewards of farming in a cold climate.

Episode Highlights:

From Physics to Farming: What led Sam to leave engineering for agriculture? [1:27]
Alaskan Soil Challenges: What has Sam learned about permafrost and soil conditions? [7:50]
Storage Solutions: How does Offbeet Farm design its facilities to optimize crop preservation? [22:02]
Carrot Longevity: What allows carrots to remain fresh for so long in storage? [27:07]
Pest Control Strategies: How does Sam manage vermin on the farm? [30:27]
Writing Beyond the Root Cellar: What inspired Sam to write his book, and what's inside? [37:17]

Don't miss Sam's insights into farming in one of the most extreme climates in the U.S. and his innovative approach to creating a sustainable, hand-powered farm that feeds the Fairbanks community year-round.

About the Guest:

Sam Knapp hails from northern Wisconsin but now lives and farms in Fairbanks, Alaska. After earning his chops working for others in Sweden, Alaska, and Wisconsin, Sam ran a part-time farm in the UP of Michigan for three years before moving to Alaska and building Offbeet Farm from the ground up. Offbeet Farm is a 1-acre veggie farm focus entirely on storage crops and wintertime sales, selling primarily through a winter-CSA but also some winter markets and wholesale.

Connect with Sam Knapp:

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

Want to boost revenue and attract new customers? Partner with Harvest Hosts, a free marketing platform generating $50M annually for farms and small businesses! Connect with 250,000 travelers eager to support farms like yours by offering space for one RV overnight—no hookups needed. Our members will support your farm, and you keep 100% of your revenue. Visit Harvest Hosts today.

👉🏼 Learn more about becoming a Host Location today!

310. Collaborative Farming: Whistlepig and Black Fox Farms' Journey in Boise Nov 19, 2024

How can collaborative farming efforts transform the CSA experience for farmers and customers alike?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by first-generation farmers Lyndsey Mulherin of Whistlepig Farm and Joe Redden of Black Fox Farm. Although they operate separate farm businesses, Lyndsey and Joe share land in Boise, Idaho, where they have combined efforts on a collaborative CSA, invested in shared infrastructure, and manage joint perennial crops.

Tune in as they share their unique approach to working together while maintaining distinct farm identities.

Episode Highlights:

Farm Focus: What differentiates Whistlepig Farm from Black Fox Farm? [2:30]
Boise's Climate: How does the Idaho climate impact their farming operations? [8:44]
Customer Base: Who are their primary CSA customers? [16:25]
Coping with Intense Summer Heat: Which crops thrive better in Boise's extreme weather? [22:35]
Joint CSA Management: How do they collaborate on decisions for the CSA program? [27:27]
Tips for New Farmers: What advice do Joe and Lyndsey offer to those starting out? [38:20]

About the Guest:

Lyndsey Mulherin runs Whistlepig Farm, focusing on mixed vegetables, while Joe Redden operates Black Fox Farm with an emphasis on crop diversity. Both farms share a commitment to sustainable, community-oriented practices and have successfully integrated a collaborative CSA model to meet their community's needs.

Connect with Lyndsey Mulherin and Joe Redden:

Website: Dry Creek Growers CSA
Instagram: Whistlepig Farm (Lyndsey) and Black Fox Farm (Joe)

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.

👉🏼 PRE-ORDER NOW!

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

309. Growing Organic Blueberries: King Grove's Shift from Wholesale to Direct Sales Nov 12, 2024

How can traditional organic practices create healthier soils and better-tasting blueberries?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael sits down with Hugh Kent of King Grove Organic Farm in Florida. Alongside his wife, Lisa, he grows certified organic blueberries using an innovative, sustainable growing system. Recently, they've shifted from wholesale to direct retail sales, inspired by their experience with buyers and a belief in the potential of direct sales for farmers.

Hugh discusses this plus the benefits of real organic practices, and the challenges they've faced, from labor management to irrigation. Tune in to hear about their journey to bring truly organic blueberries to your table and the lessons learned along the way.

Episode Highlights:

Location and Scale: Where is King Grove Organic Farm situated, and how big is it? [1:02]
Vinegar as a Herbicide: How does Hugh use vinegar for weed control and soil health? [10:48]
Labor Challenges: How do they manage labor needs during peak harvest season? [22:01]
Switch to Retail Sales: Why did King Grove shift from wholesale to direct retail? [30:15]
Real Organic Certification: What role does Real Organic certification play in their marketing strategy? [37:49]
Navigating Irrigation Needs: How does King Grove manage irrigation across their 20-acre blueberry field? [45:27]
Consumer Trends: How has the shift to online grocery shopping impacted their sales? [52:10]

Don't miss this episode as Hugh Kent shares how King Grove Organic Farm is transforming organic blueberry production with a shift from wholesale to direct retail sales!

About the Guest:

Hugh Kent is the owner of King Grove Organic Farm in Eustis, Florida. Alongside his wife, Lisa, Hugh grows certified organic blueberries using regenerative practices that enhance soil health and sustainability. The farm is known for its commitment to true organic principles and has recently made the leap from wholesale to direct retail sales, focusing on quality and customer engagement.

Connect with King Grove Organic Farm:

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

It's time to start planning for your spring garden! Farm on Central offers a wide selection of pre-order options so you can secure your favorite varieties early, from willows and elderberries to blackberries, garlic, and turmeric. Place your pre-order now at shop.FarmonCentral.com and get ready for planting season!

308. Irrigation Insights with Anthony Tasselli: Maximizing Water Use on the Farm Nov 05, 2024

How can drip irrigation help farmers conserve water and improve crop health?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael chats with Anthony Tasselli, the Technical Sales Manager for Toro Ag. With over ten years of experience in irrigation system design and project management, Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge on drip irrigation systems, including the use of filters, valves, and automation products. He is dedicated to helping farmers increase efficiency and reduce water use through sustainable irrigation practices.

Tune in as Anthony shares his insights into the benefits of micro irrigation, the latest innovations in automation, and practical advice for tackling common issues like salt buildup in irrigation systems.

Episode Highlights:

Irrigation Beginnings: What inspired Anthony to pursue a career in irrigation? [1:02]
Micro Irrigation Basics: What is micro irrigation, and how can it benefit farmers? [7:16]
California's Drip Irrigation: What portion of California's agriculture relies on drip irrigation? [12:36]
Automation Advances: How has Toro innovated in irrigation automation? [17:18]
Addressing Salt Buildup: What tips does Anthony have for managing salt buildup? [21:53]
Future of Irrigation: What are the newest developments in sustainable irrigation? [27:58]
Understanding SDI: What is subsurface drip irrigation (SDI), and why is it important? [33:25]

Don't miss this episode as Anthony Tasselli dives into the world of drip irrigation and shares strategies for more efficient water management on the farm.

About the Guest: Anthony Tasselli is the Technical Sales Manager at Toro Ag, where he provides essential support to farmers and dealers for drip irrigation solutions. With a background in system design and technical support, Anthony is passionate about empowering farmers with sustainable irrigation practices. When he's not working, Anthony enjoys outdoor adventures with his family in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Connect with Toro Ag:

Website: Toro Ag
Instagram: Follow on Instagram
Facebook: Like on Facebook

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.

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!

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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

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