The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson
Welcome to The Urban Farm Podcast, your partner in the Grow Your Own Food revolution! This audio only podcast features special guests like Rosemary Morrow, Zach Loeks, and Andrew Millison as we discuss the art and value of growing food in urban areas. We'll explore topics such as gardening basics, urban beekeeping and chicken farming, permaculture, successful composting, monetizing your farm, and much more! Each episode will bring you tips and tricks on how to overcome common challenges, opportunities to learn from the experience of people just like you, and plenty of resources to ensure you're informed, equipped, and empowered...
Tue, April 15, 2025
876: Wicking Garden Beds with Ray Jess
A Rosie On The House Replay In this episode of Rosie on the House, we explore the concept of wicking bed gardens, hosted by Romey Romero & Farmer Greg, our guest is Ray Jess, a Master Gardener and hard goods manager of the Urban Farm Fruit Tree Program Store. Ray explains his journey from traditional gardening, which he has practiced since childhood in Central California, to discovering wicking beds during his Master Gardener training. He details the construction and benefits of wicking beds, which water plants from the bottom up, saving 40-50% of water, reducing nutrient loss, and requiring less frequent watering. Ray also describes the materials needed for building a wicking bed, and the principles behind its operation, including capillary action, evaporation, and condensation. The episode also touches on the suitability of different plants for wicking beds, the importance of garden bed orientation, and the process of succession planting. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/876-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, April 11, 2025
875: Building a Local Seed Economy with Bill McDorman
A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman In this episode, the focus is on the importance of building resilient local seed and food economies. They elaborate on the six stages of the food economy — growing, harvesting, distribution, preparation, eating, and disposal — and stress the need for these processes to be circular, emphasizing composting and waste reuse. They identify seven components essential for a flourishing local food economy, including farming methods, education, harvesting and distribution, creating farmers, value-added products, culture, and local seeds. The conversation then shifts to the critical role of local seed economy and how everyone can participate by saving and sharing seeds. The benefits of seed saving, including the creation of surplus and unique, locally-adapted varieties, are highlighted. Joseph Lofthouse's concept of landrace gardening and 'Grex' is introduced, emphasizing the joy and importance of growing plants adapted to local conditions. Stories of localizing food systems, the pitfalls of dependence on industrial agriculture, and the value of volunteer plants further enrich the discussion. Both Greg and Bill encourage listeners to embrace growing, saving seeds, and actively participating in their local food economies.. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/875-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcas
Tue, April 08, 2025
874: High Yield Small Space Organic Gardening with Christy Wilhelmi
The Gardenerd strikes again. In This Podcast: Returning guest Christy Wilhelmi discusses her new book, 'High Yield Small Space Organic Gardening.' Christy, founder of Garden Nerd, shares her expertise on small space, biointensive, and organic gardening techniques that allow her to generate up to 70% of her family's produce from just 300 square feet. Our conversation includes plant placement strategies, the importance of soil health, pest control, and various garden DIY projects. Additionally, Christie underscores the significance of testing soil quality and provides insights into the benefits of using a product called a tomato crib. Our Guest: Christy is founder of Garden Nerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes her popular blog, top ranked podcast and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. Between 50 and 70% of her family's produce comes from her garden of less than 300 square feet. She's also the author of High Yield Small Space Organic Gardening, 400 Tips for Gardening Success, grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden, and her debut Novel Garden Variety. Visit UrbanFarm.org/HighYield for the show notes and links on this episode! Contact Christy at GardeNerd.com Get Christy's book HERE Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at <strong class="ql-size-small"
Fri, April 04, 2025
873: Agrihoods with Sarah Rosenberger and Matthew Geldin
Diving into community design with Agrihoods In This Podcast: We dive into what AgriHoods are and their transformative impact on communities. Hosts Sarah Rosenberger and Matthew Geldin from Farmscape discuss their roles and experiences with AgriHood projects. Sarah explains her background in urban farming and her journey through various community-based agricultural programs, while Matthew shares his expertise in vegetable gardening and farm maintenance. We explore the concept of AgriHoods, which are communities centered around agricultural amenities like farms and gardens. Key benefits include providing access to nourishing food, encouraging outdoor activity, and fostering a sense of community. They highlight successful projects such as Rancho Mission Viejo and the challenges of implementing AgriHoods, emphasizing the importance of intentional design and adequate funding. Our Guests: Sarah has been working at Agrihood sites since 2015 and works for Farmscape in a few different roles. She is passionate about designing programs that exist at the intersection between farms, ecology and human residents. After nearly a decade of working in these types of programs she serves as a consultant for developers of all scales to implement edible and ecologically vibrant amenity spaces and engagement programs. Matthew has been Farmscape’s Head Farmer in Southern California since 2014, overseeing the weekly maintenance of hundreds of projects from backyard gardens to neighborhood farms. He is an expert in raised bed vegetable gardening and developed the company’s farming service manual. Sarah's Book Recommendation - The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker Matthew's Book Recommendation - The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan Visit UrbanFarm.org/FarmscapeAgrihood for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! <p class="ql-align
Fri, March 28, 2025
872: Erik Fabian on Sourdough Success
Sourdough Tools and Tricks for Bakers In This Podcast: Greg interviews Erik Fabian, co-founder of Sourhouse, about his journey and the innovations his company brings to sourdough baking. Sourhouse, based in Asheville, creates tools for home bakers, including a countertop device called Goldie. Erik shares his background as a home baker and marketer, his challenges and inspiration during the COVID-19 lockdown, and how Sourhouse successfully launched via Kickstarter. He talks about the importance of sourdough in understanding and improving the food system, the benefits of sourdough baking, and the supportive sourdough community. Eric shares how his product Goldie helps maintain sourdough starter conditions and the benefits of consistent sourdough starter temperature. The episode is filled with practical advice for both novice and experienced bakers, including tips on creating and maintaining starters, as well as encouraging generosity and community building through baking. Wrapping up with Sourhouse's Bake for Your Neighbors initiative and the 1 Percent for Asheville program to support local recovery efforts. Our Guest: Erik is co founder of Sour House, an Asheville based company making tools for sourdough home bakers. In the early days of COVID, when the world was learning to bake sourdough, he envisioned a countertop device called Goldie to help bakers care for their sourdough starters, he teamed up with his industrial designer, friend, Jennifer Yoko Olson to create their first products. Sour House now sells their products to bakers worldwide. Their first product Goldie recently received a best kitchen gear award from Good Housekeeping. Erik's Recommended Book - Southern Ground by Jenifer Lapidus Visit UrbanFarm.org/SourHouse for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" re
Fri, March 21, 2025
871: Permaculture Ethics, Principles and Practice
A Garden Chat with Don Titmus Join Farmer Greg Peterson and Don Titmus, a horticulturist and permaculturist as they reflect on their 20-year friendship and shared journey in permaculture. They outline the fundamental principles and ethics of permaculture focusing on Earth care, people care, and fair share. This episodes sets the stage for a series of eight more sessions focusing on the individual permaculture principles. They emphasize the organic and adaptable nature of permaculture, likening it to martial arts in energy flow and management. The conversation also touches on practical implementations of permaculture in gardening and community, encouraging a sustainable and regenerative approach to living in harmony with nature. Our Guest: Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then starting his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/871-garden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up
Fri, March 14, 2025
870: Community Seed Saving with Bill McDorman
Our monthly Seed Chat at SeedChat.org In This Podcast: In this month's Seed Chat, Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss seed planting, soil temperatures, and techniques for successful gardening. They talk about the Great American Seed Up initiative, which aims to provide communities with affordable seeds through bulk purchases and local events. Highlighting the importance of community involvement in seed resilience, Bill shares a story of a successful effort by a Mormon community in Idaho. The conversation also covers tips for starting seeds indoors with seed mats, avoiding root-bound plants, and the significance of perennial herbs. The discussion emphasizes the vital role of seeds in local food security and sustainability, encouraging people to participate in community seed-saving efforts.. Visit UrbanFarm.org/870-seed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, March 11, 2025
869: Paige Mollen on Farm to School Programs
A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Rosie on the House replay features Romey Romero, Farmer Greg and Paige Mollen from the Mollen Foundation discussing the Garfield Farm to School initiative. They discuss the importance of connecting children to their food sources through local food procurement, school gardens, and food education. The initiative includes various activities such as student-led farm stands, composting, and soil health education, all aiming to integrate food into learning and promote sustainable practices. Mollen Foundation key values such as regeneration, nourishment, and partnership are emphasized throughout the discussion. The episode also mentions the Mollen Foundation's annual events, including a 10K, half marathon, and the addition of a full marathon, all supporting health and education programs. Paige Mollen is with the Mollen Foundation. Their school programs teach students about healthy food through gardening, cooking, and mindfulness. These programs are part of the farm to school movement, which connects schools with local food. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/868-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, March 07, 2025
868: Tempe Garden Girls on Transforming Local Food
Erin and Elise are out to change the local food economy. In This Podcast: Greg speaks with Erin Erickson and her mother, Elise Pitterly, who are part of a mother-daughter team aiming to transform the food economy in Phoenix. They own a small urban farm in South Tempe where they grow a variety of produce and raise poultry. Erin, with a background in vineyard farming from Oregon, and Elise, a certified master gardener, share their journey from initial challenges to developing a flourishing farm using permaculture and regenerative agriculture. They discuss the impact of the pandemic on their decision to move to Arizona, exploring new gardening techniques inspired by various YouTube homesteaders. They touch on the importance of local farming, community support, and their approach to market their produce effectively. Additionally, they highlight their upcoming venture of launching a region-specific veggie start box for local gardeners.. Our Guest: Erin and her husband, Todd raise their three daughters, maintain a thousand square foot garden, and care for various poultry. Erin grew up on a vineyard in Oregon, and loves passing on her passion for gardening to her kids and community. Her mother, Elise, is a certified master gardener with decades of experience dedicated to growing food and teaching others. Together, they sell produce at the Uptown Farmer's Market and are launching a region specific veggie start box to help local gardeners thrive In Arizona's unique climate. Book Recommendations Erin - The Marvelous Pigness of Pigs by Joel Salatin Elise - Vegetables Love Flowers by Lisa Mason Ziegler's Visit UrbanFarm.org/TempeGardenGirls for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" rel="noopener nore
Tue, March 04, 2025
867: What is a Permaculture Design Course with the Asheville Permaculture Crew
Join Beatrice, Laura and Bevelyn discussing permaculture. In This Podcast: Beatrice Nathan, Laura Ruby, and Bevelyn Okla, discuss their personal journeys and collective efforts in promoting permaculture. Beatrice, a permaculture educator, began her journey in home gardening and sustainability. Laura's experience includes studying permaculture design in Australia and teaching globally. Bevelyn combines her background in sociology, anthropology, and art with a focus on racial equity and storytelling in agriculture. Together, they highlight the transformational potential of permaculture design courses, emphasizing relationships, equity, and disaster preparedness. They also share personal anecdotes of how permaculture has changed their lives, underscoring its broader impact beyond agricultural practices. The trio runs a course in Asheville, North Carolina, integrating diverse perspectives and focusing on sustainability and community resilience. Visit UrbanFarm.org/GrowandHarvest for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, February 28, 2025
866: Maureen Ballatori on Understanding Regenerative Agriculture
From farm to future! In This Podcast: Join Greg as he chats with Maureen Ballatori, founder and CEO of Agency29, an award-winning creative agency for food, beverage, and agricultural brands. Maureen shares her journey from growing up on a dairy farm in upstate New York to creating Agency29 in response to the 2008 economic downturn. The discussion covers her path to building the agency, her focus on brand strategies, and her specialization in food, beverage, and agriculture. Maureen explains the concept of regenerative agriculture, its various interpretations, and its growing consumer demand. Additionally, she highlights her agency's role in connecting consumers with sustainably sourced products and her personal insights on business success, planning, and the importance of listening to one's gut in decision-making. Our Guest: Maureen is the founder and CEO of Agency29, an award winning creative agency for food, beverage, and agricultural brands. Her experience in brand strategies helps companies scale business growth to find their unique marketing message and attract their ideal audiences. As an active community member, Maureen holds multiple board seats for and international organizations. And she is a national speaker and workshop facilitator. Maureen's Book Recommendations An Edible History of Humanity - Tom Standage Traction, Get a Grip on your Business - Gino Wickman Visit UrbanFarm.org/Agency29 for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through th
Fri, February 21, 2025
865: Kane Wilton on Seeds, Community, and Regenerative Growth.
Transforming our communities through seeds In This Podcast: Kane Wilton, an organic farmer, garden designer, and seed enthusiast, co-founded the 1904 Project in Salem, Oregon, to connect and empower individuals toward regenerative and local food. His gardening journey began with growing flowers for his wife, eventually leading to a deep passion for food systems and permaculture. The 1904 Project started as a blog but evolved into a community-driven initiative highlighting regenerative projects and fostering collaboration among local growers. Kane’s work focuses on native integrated foodscaping, blending ornamental and edible landscapes to inspire and educate people. In 2024, the 1904 Project hosted the first Great Northwest Seed Up, where attendees scooped locally adapted seeds in a communal event. Despite an ice storm affecting attendance, the event successfully brought gardeners together to share knowledge and resources. Kane now prioritizes garden design, consulting, and expanding the Great Northwest Seed Up as key initiatives. His mission is to build resilient communities through seeds, regenerative growing, and meaningful local connections. Our Guest: Kane Wilton is an organic farmer, garden designer, and seed enthusiast with a passion for building resilient communities through regenerative growing. Kane planted his first garden initially to grow flowers for his wife. And caught the garden bug. Kane and his wife co-founded the 1904 project in Salem, Oregon, to connect and empower individuals toward regenerative and local food. In 2024, the 1904 project hosted the first Great Northwest Seed Up in Salem, Oregon, featuring seeds that are adaptively grown for the Pacific Northwest. Kane's book recommendation - Revenge of the Tipping Point by Malcom Gladwell Contact Kane - 1904project.com Visit UrbanFarm.org/1904Project for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! <
Fri, February 14, 2025
864: Ocean Robbins on Revolutionizing our Global Food Culture
How our food choices impact our health. In This Podcast: Greg interviews Ocean Robbins, co-founder and CEO of the Food Revolution Network, who discusses his lifelong activism and efforts in promoting healthy, ethical, and sustainable food choices. Robbins shares his journey that began with activism at a young age, including a successful nonprofit focused on environmental sustainability. He explains the global impact of unhealthy diets and stresses the importance of personal and systemic change through dietary choices, particularly advocating for plant-based and minimally processed foods. Robbins highlights the adverse effects of ultra-processed foods and encourages building supportive communities to sustain healthy habits. He also touches on the high environmental and health costs of animal agriculture, advocating for a shift towards plant-based diets. Our Guest: Ocean Robbins is a father, a husband, a gardener, a dancer, a million view TEDx speaker, and best selling author. He co founded and is CEO of the million member Food Revolution Network. His books include 31 Day Food Revolution, real superfoods and powered by plants. Visit UrbanFarm.org/Ocean for the show notes and links on his episodes! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, February 11, 2025
863: Farmer Greg on Starting Your Spring Garden
A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Farmer Greg and Romey discuss getting your garden started. They emphasize the importance of thoughtful garden placement to harness microclimates and proper sun exposure. Greg shares strategies for garden planning, utilizing different water sources like gray water and rainwater harvesting, and innovative solutions like raised beds and hydroponics. The episode also covers managing pests, chickens as a resource, and creating and maintaining healthy soil. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/863-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, February 07, 2025
862: Dirt Craft Organics on Building Healthy Soil.
Cultivating Soil: The Dirt Craft Story In This Podcast: We feature Adam Schwartz and Sarah Murphy, founders of Dirt Craft Living Soils, a company that creates high-quality, peat-free soil mixes for organic farmers and gardeners in the Southeast. Adam and Sarah discuss their backgrounds in farming and environmentalism, their move to North Carolina, and the establishment of their soil business in 2018. They emphasize the importance of local, sustainable agriculture and detail their innovative composting facility aimed at producing certified organic compost from pre-consumer food waste. The conversation also covers the environmental impact of peat moss and the benefits of their alternative soil ingredients. Key moments include their efforts to support local farms, their family business dynamics, and the challenges and triumphs of running a small, quality-focused enterprise. Our Guests: Adam Schwartz and Sarah Murphy are lifelong environmentalists and perennial entrepreneurs who are passionate about building a resilient and just local food system. They moved to Western North Carolina for the opportunity to live a rural lifestyle and stewardship with the land. Together, they founded Dirt Craft Living Soils, a family owned and operated business that blends high quality, peat free soil mixes for organic farmers and gardeners throughout the Southeast. Visit UrbanFarm.org/DirtCraft for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by
Fri, January 31, 2025
861: Ashley Williamson on planting orchards to transform communities
Giving Grove uses fruit trees as community engagement tools In This Podcast: Ashley Williamson of The Giving Grove discusses her journey and efforts to foster community through the planting of fruit trees. With a background in social work and international experience from the Peace Corps, Ashley co-leads the nonprofit organization that supports the establishment of community orchards in various urban settings across the United States. The Giving Grove collaborates with local nonprofits to initiate orchard programs, providing necessary resources, education, and funding. Ashley highlights their national network of over 630 orchards, emphasizing the transformative impact on local communities and food security. She also shares personal anecdotes and the philosophy driving her commitment to community-centered, sustainable practices. Our Guest: Ashley brings local and international experience in program development, community engagement, and research. She has a master in social work advocacy Policy and administration from the University of Kansas and is passionate about connecting people, ideas, and policies. Ashley is the co executive director of the Giving Grove non profit organization. They are a capacity building and technical assistance organization that works with existing 501c3s to start orchard programs in their cities. Through working with partner organizations across the country, they help community members start orchards at schools, nonprofits, food pantries, places of faith, neighborhood associations, and wherever else someone can dream about placing an orchard. Ashley is always looking forward to a good podcast book or the next time she can work in her ever expanding vegetable garden. Website - GivingGrove.org Email - Ashley@GivingGrove.org Ashley's Recommended Book - What if we Get it Right by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson Visit UrbanFarm.org/GivingGrove for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. <blockquote class="ql-align-ce
Fri, January 24, 2025
860: Julia Dakin on Wild Nutrition: Seed Saving for Wellness.
Exploring how seed saving can bring more nutrition to your plate. In This Podcast: Julia Dakin talks about Eating on the Wild Side. Greg and Julie discuss the nutritional and health benefits of wild and heirloom foods compared to their modern counterparts. They dive into uncovering how our food choices have evolved and the impact on our health and also discuss practical ways to incorporate these nutrient-rich foods into everyday diets. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and selecting foods that offer superior health benefits. Julia provides actionable advice and insights for listeners interested in improving their diet through more natural and historical food sources.. Our Guest: Julia Dakin is the co-founder of Going to Seed, an organization dedicated to promoting seed sovereignty and teaching growers how to adapt crops to local conditions and community preferences. For several years she has been working in community-driven projects that focus on adapting gardens for climate and community resilience using ancestral techniques. Julia leads initiatives that empower local growers to build resilient, locally adapted food systems, enhancing community resilience and food diversity. Julia's Book Recommendations Landrace Gardening by Joseph Lofthouse The Light Eaters : How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth by Zoe Schlanger Eating on the Wild Side by Joe Robinson Visit UrbanFarm.org/GoingToSeed for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" rel="noopener norefer
Tue, January 21, 2025
859: Holistic Gardening Insights with Janis Norton - A Rosie Replay
Learning Holistic Gardening through Permaculture Principle In This Podcast: of Rosie on the House, Janis Norton the manager of all things Urban Farm, Romey Romero and Farmer Greg discuss holistic gardening and permaculture. They define holistic gardening as considering the entire ecosystem, including your yard and neighborhood. The conversation covers permaculture ethics—care for the earth, care for people, and care for the future—and practical tips like zoning and regenerative systems. They also introduce the Permaculture Design Course, emphasizing it as a deep dive into sustainable and interconnected gardening practices. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/859-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, January 17, 2025
858: Seeds of Innovation and Natural Harmony
A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman In this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman discuss seed-saving and the importance of embracing creativity and chaos in gardening, particularly during winter. They delve into personal anecdotes about sustainable practices and running businesses, highlighting the intersections of fear, excitement, and change in various aspects of life. Additionally, they touch on the evolving practices in permaculture and grain cultivation, particularly Kernza, and its potential for sustainable agriculture. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/858-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, January 14, 2025
857: Rebecca Newburn on Building Seed Swap Resources
Seed exchange resources, tips and tools. In This Podcast: Rebecca Newburn, discusses the importance and logistics of organizing seed swaps. She explains the benefits of seed swaps, including local adaptation of seeds and community connections. Then highlights various resources she's created, such as organizing guides, seed swap participants guides, and seed labeling templates to improve the experience for both donors and borrowers. Rebecca also emphasizes the importance of proper labeling and education on seed diversity and viability. Additionally, she introduces innovative tools and resources available on SeedLibraryNetwork.org to aid seed swap organizers and participants. Our Guest: Rebecca is the co founder of Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, a free seed exchange located in the Richmond public library in Richmond, California, where she lives to create a library template. She designed has helped thousands of seed libraries launch around the world. She is the founder of seed library network dot org and created. The Cool Beans Seed Libraries Newsletter, an international publication supporting local seed projects. Rebecca appeared on our podcast in episode 700 in October of 2022. So for an in depth look at what seed libraries can do for you, you can listen there. Visit UrbanFarm.org/SeedSwap for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recom
Fri, January 10, 2025
856: Mike Clow on Technology on the Homestead
Balancing Technology and Nature in Homesteading In This Podcast: Mike Clow, a homesteader, engineer, and co-founder of Desert Life Ranch, discusses his journey from suburban life to sustainable living in the Arizona desert. He emphasizes the importance of integrating technology like solar power and aquaponics to enhance self-reliance and sustainability. Mike introduces his innovative project 'Homestead Electronics,' which uses affordable, custom-built sensors to monitor various homestead parameters, aiming to simplify and improve homestead management. Mike also touches on the challenges and continuous learning involved in homesteading and the importance of perseverance. He offers practical advice for those interested in merging technology with homesteading for more efficient and resilient living. Our Guest: Mike Clow is a homesteader, engineer and entrepreneur. He and his wife Peggy Sue are founders of the Desert Life Ranch, which they are developing into a center for sustainable and self reliant living in central Arizona. Mike enjoys homesteading, foraging, living in nature, and working with various forms of technology including solar power and aquaponics while spreading the word about sustainable living. Mike's Recommended Book - Folks, This Ain't Normal by Joel Salatin Visit UrbanFarm.org/HomesteadElectronics for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no co
Tue, January 07, 2025
855: David Stelzer on revolutionizing organic food distribution.
Changing the way we stock our pantries . In This Podcast: David Stelzer, founder and CEO of Azure Standard, discusses the evolution of his company from selling organic grain out of his pickup truck to building a nationwide organic food distribution network. David shares his personal journey into organic farming, inspired by his parents' commitment to a healthy diet after his own health issues as a child. He describes the creation of Community Drops, a unique delivery system that spans 50 states, enabling Azure Standard to serve over 3 million families. David also talks about the importance of healthy diets, sustainable farming practices, and Azure Standard's mission to provide high-quality, affordable organic food. The podcast delves into the company's development, the challenges faced, and the impact on local food systems. Our Guest: David Stelzer is a pioneer in organic food and healthy soil practices. He is the founder and CEO of Azure Farm and Azure Standard, a leading producer and distributor of natural, organic, and non-GMO foods across the nation. David began his journey into organic farming as a teenager in the 1970s, driven by a passion for providing nourishing, healthful foods cultivated in chemical-free, healthy soil. At just 21, he started selling grain from the family farm out of his pickup truck, which laid the foundation for Azure Standard in 1987. Under his leadership, Azure Standard developed a unique delivery system known as Community Drops, creating a robust organic food distribution network that spans 50 states, including Hawaii and Alaska, with over 4,000 local drop points. To date, Azure has delivered organic produce and foods to more than 3 million families across the U.S. His vision is to meet the world’s growing demand for truly healthful food, all while staying at the forefront of agricultural innovation. David's Book Recommendation - Science in Agriculture: Advanced Methods for Sustainable Farming by Arden Anderson Visit UrbanFarm.org/AZURE for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click <a href="https://theurbanfarm.as.me/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="
Fri, January 03, 2025
854: Debbie Piesen on Building Home Scale DC Grids.
Living Energy Farm's Renewable Journey Explained. In This Podcast: Debbie Piesen from Living Energy Farm discusses sustainable energy systems and microgrids. Debbie explains her journey and the challenges of living off-grid without fossil fuels. She shares the benefits and challenges of DC microgrids over AC systems and the importance of good design and decentralized energy production. Additionally, Debbie highlights various sustainable practices and projects, including solar ovens and battery storage, that are being implemented at Living Energy Farm and in the Caribbean. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of communal effort and education in transitioning to renewable energy sources. Our Guest: Debbie is one of the founders of Living Energy Farm (LEF), an organic farm and intentional community in Louisa, Virginia that is off-the-grid and uses no fossil fuels. When she is not working on the farm, Debbie teaches others about sustainable energy systems and installs DC Microgrids, an innovative solar energy system design developed at the farm. She has two children who are both named after persimmon varieties.. Visit UrbanFarm.org/LivingEnergyFarm for the show notes and links on this episode! Debbie's Recommended Book - Green Illusions by Ozzie Zehner Debbie's website - Living Energy Farm - LivingEnergyFarm.org Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you
Fri, December 27, 2024
853: Dianne Blazek on Insights on Plant Breeding.
Understanding how plants get from seed to our gardens. In This Podcast: We interview Diane Blazek, the executive director of All America Selections and National Garden Bureau, about the process of plant innovation and how new plant varieties make their way into gardens. Diane explains the various stages a plant goes through—from breeding to distribution—highlighting the roles of breeders, brokers, and growers. They discuss different propagation methods, including seeds and vegetative cuttings, and the intricacies involved in each step. Diane also touches on the importance of flowering plants for pollination, how to stay informed about new varieties through the National Garden Bureau, and shares a bit of horticultural history connected to Victory Gardens. Lastly, Diane offers advice for gardeners to try new plants and visit local public gardens.. Our Guest: Diane Blazek is the executive director of All America Selections and National Garden Bureau. She has been deeply and happily immersed in gardening from a very early age, from growing up on a small family farm in Missouri to her suburban lot in the Chicagoland area. She is passionate about everything green. Visit UrbanFarm.org/NGB for the show notes and links on this episode! Dianne's Website https://ngb.org Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not se
Fri, December 20, 2024
852: Post Hurricane Helene Ag Help - A Garden Chat with Alyson Wade
852: Post Hurricane Helene Ag Help A Garden Chat with Alyson Wade In This Garden Chat: In this episode Greg, interviews Alison Wade, founder of Farm Connection. Alison shares her diverse journey from earning three engineering degrees to starting her own nursery in North Carolina. They delve into the impacts of a recent hurricane on local farms and the measures taken to support the community post hurricane Helene, including a successful GoFundMe campaign that raised $230,000 to compensate farmers for lost and donated produce. They discuss future plans to bolster the local food system through potential food hubs and stream bank restoration programs. Both emphasize the importance of local food systems and community resilience in the face of disasters. Our Guest: Allison is the founder of Farm Connection, an edible medicinal and native plant nursery and garden center near Marshall, North Carolina. She is also the homeschooling mother of four young children and earned not one, not two, but three engineering degrees before starting her own company. She is passionate about supporting homesteaders, local farms and the local food system and can also be found speaking and teaching at local events about lean farming techniques and getting more successful harvests. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/852-garden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is com
Fri, December 13, 2024
851: Exploring Seed Conferences - A Seed Chat with Julia Dakin
851: Seed Conferences A Seed Chat with Special Guest Julia Dakin In this episode, Greg from Urban Farm U hosts a seed chat with Julia Dakin, co-founder of the nonprofit Going to Seed. They discuss Julia's work in promoting seed sovereignty and adapting crops to local conditions. Julia shares her mission of transforming agriculture from an industrialized system to one focused on community and ecological resilience. They delve into the organization's programs, including seed diversity initiatives and supporting farmers in adapting crops to their specific environments. Julia also talks about her participation in the California Organic Seed Summit, addressing issues like land access, seed cooperatives, and engaging younger farmers. The conversation highlights the importance of genetic diversity in seeds for nutrient-dense crops and resilient food systems. Julia Dakin is the co founder of Going to Seed, an organization dedicated to promoting seed sovereignty and teaching growers how to adapt crops to local conditions and community preferences. For several years she has been working in community driven projects that focus on adapting gardens for for climate and community resilience using ancestral techniques. Julia leads initiatives that empower local growers to build resilient, locally adapted food systems, enhancing community resilience and food diversity. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/851-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our pod
Tue, December 10, 2024
850: Winter Growing in the Desert with Jordan Stejskal - A Rosie Replay
850: Winter Growing in the Desert with Jordan Stejskal A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: This episode of Rosie on the House features Farmer Greg, Romey Romero and guest Jordan Stejskal discussing desert winter gardening. They include the benefits of growing plants from October to May and the variety of plants suitable for this season, such as brassicas, lettuces, and root vegetables and emphasize the importance of soil preparation using compost and fertilizers, and the considerations when sourcing manures. The team also explores bioregional herbalism, promoting the use of local plants for medicinal and culinary purposes, and the benefits of wild foraging in the desert. About our guest: Jordan Stejskal is a second generation Phoenix native and a lifelong plant lover. Jordan is a gardener, a home cook, a permaculturist, an educator, and a bioregional herbalist. She has studied plants, people, and their relationships with one another at Phoenix College, the Desert Botanical Gardens, The School of Evolutionary Herbalism, The Urban Farm, and Revis Mountain School of Self Reliance. She has worked for The Urban Farm for almost four years and helps to run the fruit tree program every winter and the permaculture design course every spring. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/850-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you. </h3
Fri, December 06, 2024
849: Meghan Baker on Navigating Cooperative Extension Programs.
849: Meghan Baker on Navigating Cooperative Extension Programs. Helping farmers find success. In This Podcast horticultural professional Meghan Baker discusses the intricacies of small farm management and the vital role of Cooperative Extension agents. Meghan shares her journey from a childhood fascination with nature to her current role as a small farms extension agent. She describes the key duties of a Cooperative Extension agent, including bringing university research to the local farming community, providing technical assistance, and supporting sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Meghan highlights the role of community partners such as the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project in transforming the agricultural landscape from tobacco to diversified farming. The episode also covers the importance of soil testing, disease and pest identification resources, and the benefits of forest farming. Meghan emphasizes her passion for continuous learning and the significance of slow, attentive observation in agriculture. She concludes by encouraging farmers to utilize the resources and expertise provided by Cooperative Extension services. Our Guest: Meghan Baker is a horticultural professional based in Asheville and currently serves as the Small Farms Extension Agent in Buncombe County for the NC Cooperative Extension Service. Meghan holds a MS degree in Plant & Environmental Studies from Clemson University. As an outreach educator and technical consultant, she helps farmers navigate production and business challenges with crops ranging from vegetables to herbs to forest products. An avid naturalist and outdoor enthusiast, Meghan also holds certifications as a North Carolina Environmental Educator, a Southern Appalachian Naturalist and an Interpretive Guide. A native of Western North Carolina, Meghan is deeply committed to sustaining the agricultural heritage and productive lands in the region. Meghan's recommended Book - Wildflowers and Plant Communities of the Southern Appalachian Mountains by Timothy Spira. Visit UrbanFarm.org/CoopAgent for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. <blockquote class="q
Fri, November 29, 2024
848: Cultivating Ancient Grains for Modern Health - A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman
848: Cultivating Ancient Grains for Modern Health A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman In this episode, Greg and Bill discuss the dual benefits of growing ancient grains for both gut health and gardening. They explore the nutritional advantages of ancient grains, such as spelt, emmer, and einkorn, and their lesser known intolerance to gluten. They also address modern agricultural issues, including the presence of glyphosate and its impact on gut health. The conversation highlights practical aspects of growing grains, from seed selection to planting and harvesting, and the advantages of using heirloom grains in local economies. Listeners are encouraged to explore local grain varieties, connect with local growers, and consider the age-old method of sourdough bread making to enhance digestive health. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/847-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, November 22, 2024
847: Jessie Dean on Farm to Teacup Tea and Hurricane Helene.
847: Jessie Dean on Farm to Teacup Tea. And Hurricane Helene and the her business recovery. In This Podcast: We chat with Jessie Dean from Asheville Tea Company, about her farm to teacup business approach and the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. This episode was originally recorded in July 2024 prior to the hurricane. The storm led to the complete destruction of their building, resulting in the loss of inventory, equipment, and office space. Despite the shock, the company has been actively rebuilding with immense support from their community, local farmers, and collaborating tea businesses. Jesse discusses the transition from her career in outdoor education to starting the tea company in 2016, combining her passion for tea with sustainable business practices. She emphasizes connecting consumers with the origins of their tea, supporting local farmers, and promoting regenerative agricultural methods. Jesse also shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of networking, and the rewarding journey of entrepreneurship. Additionally, they have launched a holiday tea trio and initiated a fundraiser to aid their recovery efforts. More details and donation options are available on their website. Our Guest: Jesse Dean is the founder and CEO of Asheville Tea Company. Where they believe in creating delicious cups of tea by using a farm to teacup approach to ingredient sourcing by having direct involvement with the plants and farmers who grow their herbs. They support the local food economy and regenerative growing methods along the way, telling the story of each ingredient. So the consumer can experience what's in their cup from seed to sip. Jessie's Book Recommendation: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown Guest Website: AshevilleTeaCompany.com Visit UrbanFarm.org/AshevilleTeaCompany for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click <a href="https://theurbanfarm.as.me/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_b
Fri, November 15, 2024
846: Exploring Ancient Grain Traditions with Don Guerra - A Rosie Replay
846: Exploring Ancient Grain Traditions with Don Guerra A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: In this episode replay of 'Rosie on the House,' the Urban Farming Hour features Don Guerra, founder of Barrio Bread in Tucson, Arizona. Don is an award-winning baker who began his community-supported bakery in his garage in 2009. Greg and Romey learn from Don about the importance of using ancient and local grains in bread-making, highlighting the cultural and nutritional benefits of these practices. He explains the history and significance of grains like Sonoran white wheat and the impact of slow fermentation techniques on gluten reduction. Don's journey from anthropology to baking, his collaborations with local farmers, and his vision of sustainable, community-supported bread production. Lastly, Don offers insights into bread education and invites listeners to explore his methods through his website and online courses. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/846-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, November 08, 2024
845: Keri Evjy on Her Regenerative Journey
845: Keri Evji's Regenerative Journey Designs for Ecological Change In This Podcast: Greg interviews Keri Evji, founder of Healing Roots Design LLC, a regenerative landscaping company in Asheville, North Carolina. Keri shares her journey of integrating nature's principles into her life and business, emphasizing a holistic approach to social and ecological change. She discusses her personal experiences and the inspiration behind her book, 'Regenerative Life Design Playbook,' which offers a multimedia toolkit for living a more connected and resilient life. Keri explores the concept of permaculture, its applications beyond gardening, and the importance of embracing our inner ecology for personal and cultural growth. Our Guest: Keri is the founder of Healing Roots Design LLC, a regenerative landscaping company in Asheville, North Carolina. She is a creative entrepreneur, teacher, permaculture designer, author, musician, and community revitalist, committed to the healing of people and planet. Her goal is to empower others to be proactive agents of social and ecological change, building resilience, ecological integrity, and beauty. Keri is the author of the Regenerative Life Design Playbook, a multimedia decision making toolkit that applies nature's principles to lead a more integrated life. Visit UrbanFarm.org/HealingRoots for the show notes and links on this episode! Keri's Book Recommendation: Creating a Life Together, Practical Tools to Grow Echo Villages and Intentional Communities by Diana Leaf Christian How to reach Keri: HealingRootsDesign.com Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" rel=
Fri, November 01, 2024
844: Greg and Heidi's Hurricane Helene Experience
844 - Greg & Heidi's Hurricane Helene Experience Greg Peterson and Heidi Lichte share their recent experiences dealing with Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the importance of community resilience and preparedness. They discuss their methods for surviving without power for seven days, such as using a rocket stove for cooking and a composting toilet, and highlight the significance of community support and resource sharing during crises. Additionally, they detail some successes and learnings from their farm, including growing elderberries, raspberries, sweet potatoes, and maintaining a resilient garden amidst climate challenges. Heidi also shares her ongoing passion for teaching online yoga classes, which she has adapted since March 2020. Our Guest: Heidi has had the joy and honor of teaching yoga for 24 years. Personally, yoga has helped her to be more conscious and present in my life and has taught her to be with the whole picture of what it means to be human: love, loss, illness, aging, vulnerability, growth and change. The physical aspects of alignment based yoga began to stabilize her injury prone body and improve her posture. The introspective practices helped create a healthier relationship internally and with the world around her. The beauty of teaching what she is passionate about is knowing that there is always more to experience. She is never bored and it's always evolving. Our Guest: Heidi has had the joy and honor of teaching yoga for 24 years. Personally, yoga has helped her to be more conscious and present in my life and has taught her to be with the whole picture of what it means to be human: love, loss, illness, aging, vulnerability, growth and change. The physical aspects of alignment based yoga began to stabilize her injury prone body and improve her posture. The introspective practices helped create a healthier relationship internally and with the world around her. The beauty of teaching what she is passionate about is knowing that there is always more to experience. She is never bored and it's always evolving. Heidi's Website: www.YogaWithHeidi.org Visit www.urbanfarm.org/844-garden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedba
Tue, October 29, 2024
843: Planting in the Fall Garden with Nika Forte- A Rosie Replay
843: Planting in the Fall Garden - A Rosie Replay A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Romey Romero, Farmer Greg and special guest Nika Forte discuss urban farming and the importance of fall gardening. Nika details her role as the Urban Farms Director at St. Vincent de Paul's Urban Farm and their efforts in combating food insecurity through sustainable practices. They also emphasize the significance of healthy soil, appropriate garden placement, and choosing crops that are both enjoyable and cost-effective, with insights into seed preservation. Additionally, Nika introduces her children's book series aimed at promoting diversity in agriculture. Special Guest: Nika Forte is a wife and mother who loves spending time with family, serving others and working in her garden. She served two years in the AmeriCorps program under Public Allies and is currently the Urban Farms Director at St. Vincent de Paul's Urban Farm where she worked for almost nine years. Her mission in life is to advocate for communities that are experiencing food insecurity, and to work every day to educate others on how to grow and give back to the environment in a sustainable and compassionate way. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/843-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, October 25, 2024
842: Food Preservation Techniques - A Garden Chat with Wendi Bergin
842: Preserving food with Wendi Bergin In This Garden Chat: Join Farmer Greg and Wendi Bergin - Wendi and Greg present an insightful overview of food preservation methods, emphasizing the importance of various techniques in extending the shelf life of different food items. They explore traditional methods like canning and pickling, alongside modern practices such as vacuum sealing and freeze-drying. Wendi details the principles behind these processes and offer practical tips for successful food preservation at home. Their discussion highlights the benefits of preserving food, including reducing waste and ensuring nutritious, long-lasting meals. Our Guest: Wendy is a regular mom with a husband, a bunch of kids who she homeschools, some dogs, the founder of Joyfully Prepared, and the host of the Joyfully Prepared podcast. She is dedicated to teaching busy moms skills like gardening, food preservation, natural remedies, and more, so they can take care of themselves and their families through developing talents with confidence while saving money. She's rolled down the mountain of progress so many times that she's skinned her knees, has grass in her teeth, and sticks in her hair. All of these mistakes have actually allowed her to become more confident in her knowledge and skills. Whether it's canning, gardening, emergency preparedness, or anything else, she teaches others to feel confident in learning. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/842-garden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are no
Thu, October 24, 2024
Down on the Farm with Judith, Greg and Wendi - Special Bonus Episode
Down on the Farm with Judith Horvath, Wendi Bergin & Farmer Greg For a chat about what we are doing on our farms. Join Farmer Greg, Wendi Bergin and Judith Horvath as we chat about the various challenges we face and techniques we use on our farms. In this episode we chat about growing tomatoes, from heirloom varieties to the more consistent cherry and grape tomatoes, and tackle climate issues, pests, and soil amendments. The conversation includes insights into permaculture practices, such as using Billy's Bone Sauce to deter deer and creating food forests with native plants. Sustainable gardening practices are explored with cassava, sweet potatoes, and mulch techniques. We further delve into food preservation, sharing methods and personal experiences with freeze-drying, dehydrating apples, and making apple cider vinegar, while addressing controversies such as 'Apeel.' This episode is filled with practical tips, cool tools like the 'Yuka' app for food labels, and creative hacks for jar sealing, culminating in resource sharing and the promise of future enlightening discussions. Our Special Guests: Our Guests: Check out Judith at https://www.fairhillfarm.com/ and Wendi at https://joyfullyprepared.com/ Visit www.urbanfarm.org/DownOnTheFarm2 for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from
Fri, October 18, 2024
841: Wendi Bergin on Being Joyfully Prepared
841: Wendi Bergin on on Being Joyfully Prepared In This Podcast: Wendy Bergin, founder of Joyfully Prepared, shares her expertise and journey in gardening, homesteading, and preparedness, inspired by her family's sustainable living heritage. In her podcast, she offers practical advice on food storage, emergency readiness, and the importance of gratitude. The script underscores the value of practical skills, community service, and continual learning through storytelling and personal anecdotes. Wendy also provides resources for skill-building and emphasizes the joy and growth that comes from embracing intentional living and moving past perfectionism. Our Guest: Wendy is a regular mom with a husband, a bunch of kids who she homeschools, some dogs, the founder of Joyfully Prepared, and the host of the Joyfully Prepared podcast. She is dedicated to teaching busy moms skills like gardening, food preservation, natural remedies, and more, so they can take care of themselves and their families through developing talents with confidence while saving money. She's rolled down the mountain of progress so many times that she's skinned her knees, has grass in her teeth, and sticks in her hair. All of these mistakes have actually allowed her to become more confident in her knowledge and skills. Whether it's canning, gardening, emergency preparedness, or anything else, she teaches others to feel confident in learning. Book recommendation - Be Your Future Self Now by Dr. Benjamin Hardy Visit UrbanFarm.org/JoyfullyPrepared for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes
Fri, October 11, 2024
840: Harvesting and Storing Seeds - A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman
841: Harvesting and Storing A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman In this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman host a monthly seed chat focused on harvesting and storing seeds. They discuss methods of dry and wet harvesting, particularly for tomatoes and squashes, and emphasize the importance of understanding plant families in seed collection. Various methods to ensure seed viability, such as proper drying and cool storage, are explored, along with the significance of seed diversity and the role of local seed libraries. The conversation also highlights the need for more individuals to start saving seeds to adapt to changing climates and revitalize local agriculture. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/841-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Thu, October 10, 2024
839: Jeremy Chevalier on Food Forest Innovations
839: Jeremy Chevalier on Food Forest Innovations Building food in our everyday landscapes. In This Podcast: The podcast features Jeremy Chevalier, a Phoenix native and serial entrepreneur, who is pioneering urban food forest initiatives with his charity, Homegrown, aiming to combat food shortages by promoting regenerative agriculture and self-sufficient communities. Jeremy discusses his journey from a conventional career to founding Homegrown, influenced by his community experiences and discoveries in soil health and permaculture. His initiatives include permaculture-based landscape services, a soil-focused real estate project, and a local food system in Phoenix that encompasses gleaning and urban farming. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement in transforming urban landscapes into food-producing areas while addressing the logistical challenges of distributing harvested produce. Our Guest: Jérémy is a Phoenix native and serial entrepreneur with a newfound passion for healing Earth’s soils and building resilient, self-sufficient communities. To that end, he’s launched Homegrown, a 501(c)(3) charity with a vision for a world in which public & private food forests blanket urban areas everywhere, and food shortages become a topic in history books. He’s building this vision through a handful of industry-disrupting ventures and programs including a neighborhood food rescue, permaculture-based landscaping services, and a soil health-focused real estate business. Book Recommendation: ___ by ___ Visit UrbanFarm.org/HomeGrown for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go throug
Bonus · Fri, October 04, 2024
SPECIAL RE-RELEASE - Greg Peterson interviewed
Greg Peterson is currently in an area of North Carolina that is without power, water, cell or internet. They are okay for now because he has the permaculture and prepping skills he has honed over the last 40 decades. We do ask that you consider donating to local groups that are assisting in the recovery and assistance. We are donating to The Cajun Navy and encourage you to check out their website. Greg Peterson - 250th Episode Special Interviewing Farmer Greg himself - about his life mission and creating The Urban Farm. In this podcast: This is the 250th episode of The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson and the tables are turned as our guest host Jake Mace gets to take control of the interview. Greg tells us his story, how writing a mission statement for a college assignment affected him, and why naming your farm is so important to him. And, he shares more about the origin of The Urban Farm Nursery and of Urban Farm U. Greg has lived at the Urban Farm for almost 30 years. His 1/3-acre yard features an entirely edible landscape, including over 70 fruit trees, rainwater and grey-water harvesting, solar applications, and extensive use of reclaimed and recycled building materials. Greg is a longtime permaculture advocate, flunked out of university in 1981 because he was bored, then went back twenty years later to get a bachelor’s degree and a Masters in Urban and Environmental Planning in 2006 and is a lifelong continual learner. On his days off he hangs out in his garden with his sweetheart Heidi and their chickens, creating new projects and catching some rays. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/20/greg-peterson-250th-podcast/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Fri, September 27, 2024
838: Austin Frerick on The Food Barons of our Time
838: Austin Frerick on The Food Barons of our Time. Challenging the way our food is grown. In This Podcast: In this podcast episode, we interview Austin Frerick an expert in agricultural and antitrust policy, discussing his book 'Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of the American Food Industry.' Austin shares his personal and professional journey that shaped his insights on the food system, highlighting the consolidation and exploitation in the industry through the profiles of various 'food barons.' The conversation explores the systemic issues related to the industrialization of agriculture, including environmental impacts and labor exploitation, and emphasizes the importance of returning to more sustainable, local food systems. Austin's narratives provide a critique of current policies and suggest actionable steps to challenge the status quo in favor of a more equitable and regenerative food future. Our Guest: Austin Frerick is an expert on agricultural and antitrust policy. He has worked at the open markets Institute, the U S department of treasury and the congressional research service before becoming a fellow at Yale university. He is a seventh generation Iowan and a first generation college graduate with degrees from Grinnell College and the University of Wisconsin Madison. His latest work is a book called Barron's Money, Power, and the Corruption of the American Food Industry. Visit UrbanFarm.org/Barons for the show notes and links on this episode! Austin's Book Recommendation: 10 Restaurants that changed America by Paul Freedman How to reach Austin: Look for Austin Frerick on all social media Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Discl
Fri, September 20, 2024
837: BioDynamics 101 - A Garden Chat with Mike Biltonen
837: BioDynamics 101 with Mike Biltonen In This Garden Chat: Join Farmer Greg and Mike Biltonen , Exploring Biodynamics. Biodynamics is an advanced farming method that views the farm as a single, self-sustaining organism. It incorporates cosmic and lunar influences, along with organic farming practices, to enhance plant, animal, and soil health. Special preparations made from herbs, minerals, and manure are used to stimulate soil fertility and plant growth. Biodynamics also emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living systems and seeks to create harmony between them.. Our Special Guest: Mike Biltonen has a rich background in sustainable agriculture with decades of experience in orchards, vineyards and specialty crops. His work focuses on the integration of biodynamic principles into farming, which aligns with the with his commitment to ecological sustainability and farming practices. His involvement with the Josephine Porter Institute for Biodynamics and Know Your Roots LLC showcases his dedication to advancing sustainability and biodynamic farming methods. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/837-garden for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, September 13, 2024
836: Seed Saving Secrets A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman
836: Seed Saving Secrets A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman In this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman discuss the fundamentals of seed saving, techniques for collecting and preparing seeds from various plants, and the benefits of maintaining genetic diversity. They also address specific audience questions about harvesting and storing seeds, and the effects of cross-pollination. The conversation emphasizes the importance of home-based seed saving for adapting plants to local conditions and mitigating the impacts of climate change. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/836-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, September 10, 2024
835: Growing Wild Food in Your Yard - A Rosie Replay
835: Growing Wild Food in Your Yard A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: In this episode of Rosie on the House, hosts Romey Romero and Farmer Greg discuss growing wild food in in your yard. They emphasize the benefits of planting food-producing plants and using permaculture principles like composting, chickens and layering plants. Greg also highlights the importance of observing microclimates, proper water management, utilizing open-pollinated seeds and having chicken workers in your yard. Additionally, he touches on community involvement, local ordinances, and the Permaculture Design Course for creating sustainable, food-producing landscapes...... Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/835-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, September 06, 2024
834: Kirsten Simmons on Streamlining Farmers' Busy Work
834: Kirsten Simmons on Streamlining Farmers' Busy Work She is all about helping farmers in the back office. In This Podcast: We follow the journey of Kirsten Simmons. After experiencing farm failures, she co-founded Good Agriculture in 2022, a company that manages administrative tasks and provides financial, marketing, and grant-writing support for farmers. Kirstin shares how the company has grown, helped farmers become more profitable, and developed manual and automated tools to support farm operations. Good Agriculture aims to streamline back-office tasks, enabling farmers to focus on farming, with services tailored to small and large farms.. Our Guest: Kirsten began growing mixed vegetables in 2016 in Atlanta, and currently focuses her growing efforts on Yupik strawberries. In 2022, she co founded Good Agriculture, where she and her team create products that manage the back offices for farmers.. Book - First Generation Farming by Chris Newman - Available Digitally Only Visit UrbanFarm.org/GoodAgriculture for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, August 30, 2024
833: Jaron Lukas on Healthy Nutrition for Dogs
833: Jaron Lukas on Healthy Nutrition for Dogs. Why we need to stay away from highly processed pet kibble! In This Podcast: Jaron Lukas, CEO and founder of Yum Woof, a brand specializing in air-dried dog food, discusses his journey from tech to pet nutrition, driven by personal experiences with food allergies. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding dry kibble, highlighting the benefits of more natural dog food options for canine health and longevity. Jaron also delves into insights from his book The Canine Cocomega Effect , which explores the synergistic benefits of combining coconut oil and omega-3s in dog diets. Our Guest: Jaron Lukas is the CEO and founder of Yum Woof, the air dried dog food brand. He is also the author of the canine cocoa mega effect that explores 162 studies on which fats are linked to a longer lifespan in dogs. Previously, Jaron founded the VC backed fintech startup Coin Center, which he sold in 2016. He also started his career in investment banking at J. P. Morgan and graduated from Rice University on the president's honor roll. Besides dog nutrition, he's passionate about history, biochemistry, and daily meditation. Jaron's Book : The Canine Cocomega Effect Jaron's Book Recommendation : Dune by Frank Herbert Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/ YumWoof for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast g
Fri, August 23, 2024
832: Cindy Gentry on Food Co-Ops Impact
832: Cindy Gentry on Food Co-Ops Impact How they can change the food landscape. In This Podcast: Cindy discusses her extensive work in food co-ops, hunger prevention, and healthy food systems development. She shares her experiences in establishing the Phoenix Public Market and various farmers market programs to support local farmers and improve food accessibility. Cindy outlines the origins and goals of the Sun Produce Cooperative and its impact on local food distribution. Additionally, Gentry delves into her personal journey, reflecting on past challenges and successes in her mission to promote local agriculture and fair food systems. Our Guest: Cindy Gentry is a founding member and the current manager for Sun Produce Cooperative in Phoenix, Arizona, which was established in 2017. She brings more than 35 years experience with non profit hunger prevention and healthy food systems development. Cindy has worked statewide in Arizona to nurture local food production and distribution and to support local farmers markets, including spearheading the work to establish the Phoenix Public Market. She helped create the Arizona Farmers Market Nutrition Program and the SNAP Market Project, which allows low income children, adults, and seniors, to access better nutrition by shopping for fresh vegetables at local farmers markets while bringing new income to Arizona producers. Cindy's Book Recommendation : The Seed Keeper , by Diane Wilson Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/ SunProduce for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal c
Fri, August 16, 2024
831: Growing Gourmet Mushrooms - A Garden Chat with Michael Judd
831: Growing Gourmet Mushrooms with Michael Judd The three easiest mushrooms to grow outdoors. In This Garden Chat: Join Farmer Greg and Michael Judd , an expert in edible and ecological landscape design, for a discussion on growing gourmet mushrooms outdoors. They discuss the three easiest mushrooms to grow: shiitake, oyster, and wine cap mushrooms, along with their preferred growing conditions and necessary preparations. Michael shares practical advice on sourcing the right wood, maintaining moisture, and utilizing permaculture principles for effective mushroom cultivation. He also offers insights into his mini course and other resources available for those interested in further learning. Our Special Guest: Michael has worked with agro-ecological and whole-system designs throughout the Americas for over two decades, focusing on applying permaculture and ecological design. His projects increase local food security and community health in both tropical and temperate growing regions. He is also the author of Edible Landscaping with the Permaculture Twist and For The Love of PawPaws . Click HERE for his edible landscape eBook. And use URBAN40 for a discount on Michael's Growing Gourmet Mushrooms mini course. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of th
Fri, August 09, 2024
830: Seed Starting Essentials Explained - A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman
830: Seed Starting Essentials Explained A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman This is the July 2024 Seed Chat Greg Peterson and Bill McDorman discuss key aspects of nurturing seed starts for a thriving garden. They emphasize the importance of proper seed starting mediums, suggesting lightweight, aerated materials like perlite and cocopeat over regular garden soil. They also highlight the need for adequate light, recommending artificial light setups if natural light is insufficient. Proper watering techniques are crucial, ensuring the soil remains moist without over-watering. They advocate for hands-on gardening and learning through observation and experimentation to achieve the best results. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/830-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, August 06, 2024
829: Extreme Tree Care for Extreme Weather - a Rosie Replay
829: Extreme Tree Care for our Extreme Weather A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: In this episode of Rosie on the House, hosts Romey Romero and Farmer Greg and guests Derek Zellers and Anthony Dominguez from HyKreations discuss extreme weather tree care. They introduce their all-natural Wisdom product line, which enhances tree care during extreme heat periods by using ingredients like fish, kelp, and mined minerals. Their products, designed to support microbial life in the soil, help trees reach their genetic potential and produce larger yields. Various application methods, such as foliar and drench feeding, are detailed, alongside the benefits of feeding trees continuously. Visit HyKreations.com for more information. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/829-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, August 02, 2024
828: Scott Murray on Nurturing Future Farmers
828: Scott Murray on Nurturing Future Farmers The MESA program and Agricultural Stewardship In This Podcast: Returning guest Scott Murray, with 50 years of organic agriculture experience, discusses his involvement with the MESA program on a podcast. The MESA program, approved by the U.S. State Department, hosts international agricultural interns to promote sustainable agriculture. Scott shares his experiences with interns from France and Kenya and highlights the value of global knowledge exchange. He also talks about his current projects, including a successful coffee farm in Southern California. The program provides a valuable opportunity for hosts in the U.S. to learn from agricultural practices around the world. Our Guest: Scott has 50 years of organic agriculture production experience in the United States and Mexico. He has served in a wide variety of roles within conservation, Food production and environmental leadership, including as an elected California conservation official for the last 31 years. Scott also specializes in farmland preservation projects, utilizing smart growth principles. These days, his primary work is on farm creation and consulting, including his work on a farm growing coffee in Southern California, which had its first harvest and sold out. One day at an incredible 796 a pound. Visit UrbanFarm.org/MesaProgram for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and
Tue, July 30, 2024
Down on the Farm Chat with Judith, Wendi & Greg
Down on the Farm Chat with Judith, Wendi & Greg About Steam Juicers, Chicken Juice and so much more In This Podcast: Join Judith Horvath, Wendi Bergin and Greg for a lively conversation about using a steam juicer for making chicken broth, a method new to Judith and Greg. Then they dive into composting techniques, pressure canning, and maintenance of kitchen equipment. The conversation also delves into their personal homesteading practices, experiences with gardening, and how they manage their respective farms. The energetic dialogue underscores their shared passion for sustainable living and continuous learning. Our Guests: Check out Judith at https://www.fairhillfarm.com/ and Wendi at https://joyfullyprepared.com/ Visit www.UrbanFarm.org for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, July 26, 2024
827: Farmer Karl Ebeling on The Declaration of Common Ground
827: Farmer Karl Ebeling on The Declaration of Common Ground. Teaching self-sufficiency while strengthening community bonds through farming. In This Podcast: Farmer Karl, with 33 years of corporate experience, transitioned to farming to uplift communities by founding Eden Streets in 2020. He worked with women facing homelessness in Salt Lake City and now runs Grow Ogden Farm in Utah, integrating job training and social missions for vulnerable individuals. His initiative connects people with agriculture, fostering self-sufficiency and reducing homelessness. Additionally, through his Declaration of Common Ground, Karl aspires to unite global community-based farming efforts to address societal challenges. Our Guest: The “Mister Rogers” of farming, “ Farmer Karl ” is a compassionate leader who is dedicated to lifting lives by connecting individuals with plants, the soil, and others on the farm. With 33 years of international business experience as a consultant, teacher, and mentor, Farmer Karl’s specialty is his ability to collaborate, educate, and support community leaders committed to establishing farms that empower people to rebuild their lives. Since founding Eden Streets in 2020, Farmer Karl has worked on the Green Phoenix Farm in downtown Salt Lake City with women facing homelessness to enable them to find stable jobs and housing. He continues to gather and develop the know-how, team, and network to initiate and establish farms with social missions around the world. Farmer Karl's Book Recommendation: Growing a Garden City by Jeremy N. Smith Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/EdenStreets for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org
Fri, July 19, 2024
826: Managing Heat Stress with your Animals - A Garden Chat
826: Managing Heat Stress with your Animals A Garden Chat with Judith Horvath . In This Podcast: We chat with Judith Horvath, a former business executive turned regenerative farmer, focuses on helping new farmers and creating a resilient local food supply chain. They chat about managing summertime heat stress in various farm animals such as sheep, goats, chickens, and turkeys. Key practices mentioned include maintaining clean and cool water, using misting fans, providing loose salt and minerals, and using methods like cold watermelon to help animals stay hydrated and cool. The importance of observing animal behavior and routine for early detection of stress signs is emphasized. Additionally, Judith shares insights based on her experience and expertise in regenerative farming and offers resources for managing internal parasites in farm animals. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, July 12, 2024
825: Selecting for Good Seed Stock - A Seed Chat
825: Selecting for Good Seed Stock. A chat with an expert on seeds. This is the June 2024 Seed Chat - In June’s Seed Chat, Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson delve into the art of cultivating optimal seed stock straight from your garden. Discover the satisfaction of hand-selecting seeds that thrive in your unique microenvironment. Bill and Greg explore the importance of observing characteristics of your plants for selecting what you want and looking for obvious factors such as disease and insect resistance. Learn how to enhance your garden’s resilience by selecting seeds adapted to local conditions in your garden or farm. Bill and Greg will present a green-thumb guide on curating seed stock that reflects your garden’s personality and promises seasons of success. Come Chat with Us! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/825-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, July 09, 2024
The Goddess and the Medicine Woman Snippet
Special Episode of The Urban Farm Podcast w/ The Goddess and The Medicine Woman crew Sydney & Melissa In This Podcast: Join Greg for this incredibly fun snippet from his interview on The Goddess and The Medicine Woman podcast. Visit The Goddess and The Medicine Woman for the full episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, July 05, 2024
824: Matt Fritzmiller on Backyard Gardening in the Southwest
824: Matt Fritzmiller on Backyard Gardening in the Southwest. Building a homestead, southwest urban style. In This Podcast: Matt FritzMiller shares his journey of transforming his backyard in Chandler, Arizona, into an urban homestead with 20-25 fruit trees and multiple garden beds. Matt, the creator of Renaissance Dad, discusses his trial-and-error approach to gardening in the Southwest, the importance of deep fruit tree irrigation, and the joys and challenges of raising chickens. He emphasizes the health benefits, the satisfaction of growing fresh produce, and the involvement of his family in their gardening projects. The conversation also touches on composting, the practical aspects of gardening, and the rewarding experience of sharing homegrown produce with the community. Our Guest: Matt is the author of Renaissance Dad, a website dedicated to gardening, DIY, parenting, cooking, tools, and education. A lifelong educator, Matt enjoys being outside as much as possible, especially if it involves a fruit tree, gardening, or a power tool. Matt and his wife Glynka, an author of Young Adult fiction, love sharing their passions with their three kids. They live in Chandler, Arizona, love eating things out of their garden, and spend time herding their chickens and dogs. Matt's Book Recommendation: Extreme Gardening by Dave Owens Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/RenaissanceDad for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn
Tue, July 02, 2024
823: Getting Your Gardens Watered - a Rosie On The House Replay
823: Getting Your Gardens Watered A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Rosie on the House features Farmer Greg and Janis Norton discussing various methods for watering gardens. Key topics include flood irrigation, rainwater harvesting, stormwater, and gray water use along with the benefits of drip tape systems over traditional drip irrigation. The show also delves into soil types (sandy, loamy, clay) and their impact on water absorption. Practical advice is provided on setting up efficient irrigation systems, including the use of shutoff valves, pressure reducers, and chlorine filters. Our Guest: Janis Norton Manager all things Urban Farm and Farmer Greg For your own Drip Tape Starter Kit visit our General Store HERE . Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/823-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, June 28, 2024
822: Zen Honeycutt on Inspiring Moms to Change The World
822: Zen Honeycutt on Inspiring Moms to Change The World. Transforming health for generations to come. In This Podcast: We are chatting with Zen Honeycutt, the founding executive director of Moms Across America. Zen shares her journey of addressing her children's severe allergies and health issues, which led to the founding of a national coalition aimed at empowering moms and promoting healthy communities. She discusses the impact of GMOs and toxic chemicals in our food supply and the significant improvements in her children's health after switching to an organic diet. Zen also details the initiatives and successes of Moms Across America in advocating for better food standards and community health. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and learn how you can make a difference in your family's health and your community. -- Our Guest: Zen is the Founding Executive Director of the non-profit, Moms Across America , a National Coalition of Unstoppable Moms with the motto "Empowered Moms, Healthy Kids." She is also an international speaker and the author of UNSTOPPABLE: Transforming Sickness and Struggle into Triumph, Empowerment, and a Celebration of Community . Book Recommendation: Food and Behavior, The Natural Connection by Barbara Reed Zen's Book : Unstoppable: Transforming Sickness and Struggle into Triumph, Empowerment and a Celebration of Community Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/MomsAcrossAmerica for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to
Tue, June 25, 2024
821: Chris Bowman and Danny Lundquist on Transforming Chicken Coop Ownership
821: Chris Bowman and Danny Lundquist on Transforming Chicken Coop Ownership In This Podcast: Greg interviews Danny Lundquist and Chris Bowman , the entrepreneurial duo behind The Chicken Coop Company . They discuss their venture from different backgrounds, with Danny with tech sales and Chris with financial services and real estate, to improve the experience of backyard chicken keeping. They transitioned from corporate jobs into entrepreneurship (one of Greg’s favorite topics), founding their business with an eye on the importance of freedom through owning their own business. In our chat we explore the nuances of high-quality yet affordable chicken coops, which cater to urban chicken owners concerned about safety, convenience, predator protection, and aesthetic appeal. Key points include the benefits and drawbacks of purchasing chicken coops online, integrating customer feedback for continuous improvement, and professional life lessons learned from past business endeavors. Our Guests: Danny was raised in a family business in small town USA, his upbringing instilled a deep sense of community and relationship in business. Armed with “door-to-door” sales experience coupled with leading customer experience and sales teams in the tech industry, Danny knows the art of connecting with people and understanding their needs. Chris is a California native who revels in the tranquility and adventure of the global outdoors. He has an insatiable entrepreneurial energy and determination. From leading large financial services technology teams to health care organizations and real estate adventures, he relishes building relationships. Together they own and operate The Chicken Coop Company which sells chicken coops that are the "Goldilocks" play for people new to keeping chickens; they are high quality coops that are not too big, too small, or too expensive. Book Recommendation: Danny - The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. Chris - $100M Offers by Alex Hormozi Greg - Profit First by Mike Michalowicz Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/TheChickenCoopCompany for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Te
Fri, June 21, 2024
820: The Edible Landscape Project - A Garden Chat
820: The Edible Landscape Project A Garden Chat with Joan Baron. In This Garden Chat: Join Farmer Greg and Joan Baron as they explore how Joan took an often overlooked area around her property and turned it into a lush garden. She transformed the alley behind her house into a lush garden that the city, neighbors and community are raving about. Listen and find out how you can do the same. Our Special Guest: Joan Baron is an environmental artist and community activist whose passion lies in exploring and digging deep into Earth's materials to design and build gardens. She conceived the Edible Landscape Project in 2008 as a response to seeing too many desert yards growing grass with no human engagement. The Food in the Alley initiative grew out of her desire to continue studying and experimenting with growing food in Arizona. Alleys have traditionally been unattractive and undesirable spaces. Joan saw her alley as an opportunity to grow more food for people, bees, and butterflies. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, June 14, 2024
819: How to Plant Your Seeds - A Seed Chat
819: How to Plant Your Seeds A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the May 2024 Seed Chat - Whether you’re a gardening novice or a seasoned enthusiast, join us for an engaging session where we’ll identify the secrets of successful seed planting. Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson will guide you through the process, from selecting the right seeds to nurturing them into thriving plants. Learn about soil preparation, optimal planting depths, and the crucial role of sunlight and water. Discover insider tips for overcoming common challenges and ensuring a bountiful harvest. This interactive Seed Chat promises to cultivate your gardening skills and set you on the path to a vibrant, green future. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to sow the seeds of success! Come Chat with Us! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/819-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you. </
Wed, June 12, 2024
818: Soil - The most Important thing to grow in your garden -A Rosie replay
818: Soil - The most Important thing to grow in your garden A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Join Farmer Greg for his monthly Rosie on the House Radio hour from Arizona. This month Romey and Greg are discussing in depth the ins and outs of growing healthy soil. Learn all about woody mulch and where to find it for free, the five components of healthy soil, why Greg loves weeds, the big reason not to use chemicals in his garden and so much more. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/818-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, June 07, 2024
817: John Moody on Growing Elderberries
817: John Moody on Growing Elderberries. Growing a berry plant popular for its many health benefits. In This Podcast: In 2023 Farmer Greg Became an elderberry farmer because of a conversation with Samara Price a podcast guest. Then he remembered that one of our past guests had written a book on Elderberries. Join John Moody and Greg as they navigate the history, traditions and propagation techniques of elderberries. Stick around till the end of the interview to find out what Count Dracula from Sesame Street has to do with elderberries. Our Guest: John and his family homestead on 35 acres in the rolling hills of Kentucky outside Louisville. Riddled with chronic illness and health problems, in his twenties John discovered the healing power of real foods, properly prepared from real farms. He soon founded Whole Life Buying club, one of the largest alternative local food distribution approaches in the country. He is the author of five books, co-founder with Joel Salatin of the Rogue Food Conference, and a well known speaker at conferences across the country on health, food, farming, and freedom. You can find him at Johnwmoody.com , or their forthcoming family Podcast - Resistance is Fertile. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/TheElderberryBook for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest w
Fri, May 31, 2024
816: Aaron Zaretsky on Creating Public Markets
816: Aaron Zaretsky on Creating Public Markets . Offering an alternative to Farmers Markets . In This Podcast: Imagine a place not that unlike a modern-day mall, but with only local vendors of food and many other cool things. They are called Public Markets that are a centuries old concept that has been revitalizing local food economies in places like Seattle (Pikes Place Market) and Zagreb Croatia (the Dolac Market). Join Aaron Zaretsky and Greg as they explore the history and future of Public Markets. Our Guest: Aaron spent fifteen years as a Director at Seattle’s Pike Place Public Market , the nation’s most successful Public Market, with fifteen million annual customer visits. The Market’s redevelopment is credited with transforming downtown Seattle from the nation’s original “skid road”, with countless derelict buildings, into the nation’s healthiest and most prosperous downtown. Pike Place is also the #1 tourist attraction in the surrounding six state region. For 41 years, through his company, Public Market Development , Aaron has helped to analyze, plan, redevelop, develop, and manage over fifty Public Markets across the country and internationally. Aaron's Book Recommendation: The Prophet by Kahil Gibran Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/PublicMarketDevelopment for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at <strong class="ql-size-smal
Tue, May 28, 2024
815: Kareen Erbe on Resilient Homesteads
815: Kareen Erbe on Resilient Homesteads. Helping people design food forests and gardens with a holistic approach . In This Podcast: Broken Ground is Kareen's passion and a platform where people can learn how to work with and create from the principles of permaculture and sustainable living. Kareen is a passionate environmentalist with a deep-rooted connection to the land, and through Broken Ground she offers workshops, consultations, and design services to empower individuals and communities to grow their own food and regenerate the earth. Through her signature resilient homestead program, participants are guided through the principles of permaculture design, soil building, food forest creation, and water harvesting, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to transform their landscapes into thriving, biodiverse ecosystems. By fostering beneficial relationships between plants, animals, and people, Broken Ground is redefining the way we interact with our environment and inspiring a new generation of land stewards. At the core of her mission is the belief that everyone has the ability to cultivate abundance and resilience in their own front and backyard. By providing practical tools and resources, along with ongoing support and mentorship, Broken Ground empowers individuals to take control of their food supply and reduce their impact on the planet. Through education, community engagement, and hands-on learning experiences, Broken Ground is sowing the seeds of change and cultivating a future where regenerative agriculture is the norm, not the exception. Our Guest: Kareen is the owner of Broken Ground, a garden design consultant and educator. For over a decade, she has helped people in cold climates grow their own food so they can eat healthier, live more sustainably, and become more self-reliant. From getting clients started on their first ever garden, to working with couples on designing a full-blown homestead, to designing large-scale farms, she’s helped thousands of people grow nutritious food for their family through consultations, design services, her signature Resilient Homestead Program, and her YouTube channel . Kareen and her husband live on a suburban homestead in Bozeman, Montana, USA with their dog Beni, a greenhouse, pond, vegetable gardens, a food forest of fruit trees and berry bushes, and a flock of chickens. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/BrokenGround for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? <blockquote class="
Fri, May 24, 2024
814: Albert Wilde on Wool Pellet Organic Fertilizer
814: Albert Wilde on Wool Pellet Organic Fertilizer. Using an innovative resource to improve water retention in potted plants. In This Podcast: Regenerative farming is all about using everything in the system and not having any waist. What if you were a farmer and found a place that there was a 20% waste stream on your farm? Albert Wilde of Wild Valley Sheep Farm invented a new way to fertilize his wife's houseplants and it is turning into an innovate new way to fertilize and have our soil retain water. Join us as Albert and I chat about what is in my opinion one of the most innovative fertilizer inventions of the decade! Our Guest: Albert is a sixth generation sheep rancher, entrepreneur, and father of seven boys. He is pioneering a new market for US wool, focusing on the use of wool pellets as a fertilizer and water holding soil amendment. Albert started by making compost on the side as a little extra income for the farm. This led to making wool pellets and trialing them with a local greenhouse. Then in 2017, Wild Valley Farms won the Utah “Green Business Award for Innovation” and in 2018 Wild Valley Farms was chosen as a finalist out of 535 entries in the “American Farm Bureau Rural Entrepreneurship Challenge”. Since then, Albert has worked with numerous universities around the world demonstrating the benefits of wool pellets. Wild Valley Farms has expanded the market through distributors, online, and in stores establishing a new innovative product for gardeners and farmers. Albert's Recommended book: Root Cellaring natural cold storage of fruits and vegetables , by Mike and Nancy Bubell, Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/WildValleyFarms for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an
Fri, May 17, 2024
813: What are Farm Trusts with Zack Wyatt - A Garden Chat
813: Carolina Farm Trusts A Garden Chat with Zack Wyatt. In This Garden Chat: We chat with Zack Wyatt of the Carolina Farm Trust is focused on revolutionizing the food systems in the Carolinas through regenerative farming practices and sustainable approaches. The Carolina Farm Trust has four pillars—Farm Apprenticeship Program, Food is Health Program, Urban Farm Network, and CFT Market & Distribution Center that are integral to their mission of fostering a healthier, more sustainable food system from farm to table. Our Special Guest: Zack Wyatt grew up in Northern Virginia. His family were caretakers of a 300 acre old dairy farm where they had a large garden, pigs, horses, chickens, and when he was young, he worked on neighboring farms. After graduating from Coastal Carolina University in 2003 with a degree in a business administration he worked in home mortgage lending and IT. But Zack's passion for bringing community together over food won out and his understanding of the importance of equitable food access and his drive to improve local food systems led him to create the Carolina Farm Trust in 2015. As the CEO of Carolina Farm Trust, Zack has produced two documentaries: The Farmer That Feeds Us series, and an annual music festival fundraiser called Carolina Jubilee . Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and
Fri, May 10, 2024
812: Seed Borne Diseases - A Seed Chat with Bill McDorman
812: Seed Borne Diseases A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the April 2024 Seed Chat - Seed-borne diseases quietly jeopardize the vitality of crops, as seeds unwittingly harbor microscopic threats like fungi, bacteria, and pests. Bill and Greg will help you identify these pesky pests and guide you through the measures to screen for disease-resistant seeds to thwart these covert adversaries . Visit www.urbanfarm.org/812-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, May 07, 2024
811: All About Keeping Honeybees - a Rosie Replay
811: All about Keeping Honeybees with Cricket Alderidge Ungvary A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Ever thought about keeping honeybees? It's a process and it's something we need to learn if you're gonna take it on and that's exactly what we're talking about today. Join our our monthly radio show called Rosie On The House in Phoenix, Arizona as we discuss with Cricket what it takes to keep honeybees; and oh yeah, what is mead. Our Guest: Today we have Cricket Aldridge Ungvary to talk about her experience with suburban homesteading in the desert. Cricket is a natural homesteader growing up in rural Idaho with a garden, a horse, and lots of home canned food. She brings those sensibilities to her farm in North Phoenix. Cricket adds a little dose of cottage garden flavor and permaculture tendencies, and you'll see why her blog, BloomingAZ. com, is a reflection of everything she does. Cricket is a longtime beekeeper, brought in to this new life skill by wanting to know more about making mead. Now she runs a farm called Blooming Ranch and teaches people every day about bees, chickens, and more. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/811-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, May 03, 2024
810: Randy Ritchie on Why Gardening Must Change
810: Randy Ritchie on Why Gardening Must Change. Helping gardeners weed out toxins from their gardens . In This Podcast: Randy transitioned from landscaper to biodynamic farmer, along the way he discovered biodynamic compost and its incredible transformative impact on growing food. Join us as we explore the principles of regenerative agriculture, the importance of creating insectaries and promoting biodiversity. Along his journey he founded Malibu Compost whuch serves as a guide for individuals looking to create thriving, sustainable ecosystems in their own gardens and communities. Our Guest: Randy lives happily with his wife on their urban farm nestled in the Santa Monica Mountains. He grew up in Pacific Palisades, California and graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu. Randy is a Christian, a father of three, entrepreneur, disruptor, screenwriter, author, garden lecturer, eco-landscaper, organic farmer, podcast host and the founder of Malibu Compost and Number 2 Organics. He loves gardening, surfing, great music, healthy food, being and staying healthy and telling everyone he can, the truth about real organics and living a healthy lifestyle. Book Recommendation: Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/RandyRitchie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are
Fri, April 26, 2024
809: Enoch Graham on His Garden Story
809: Enoch Graham on His Garden Story. Passionate about encouraging others to Garden . In This Podcast: From houseplants, to a single plant that actually makes a cucumber to growing groceries on your carport roof and having the police come and investigate what you are growing...wink, wink. He wasn't, he was growing groceries and turned his passion into a weekly YouTube show that inspires many people to grow their own. Join Greg and Enoch for his very interesting story! Our Guest: Enoch is an small space gardener who has been growing some of his own food for over 12 years in his limited urban space in southern Oregon. By growing so many different varieties of fruits and vegetables he has taken his skills to a new level. So 7 years ago he started sharing his gardening adventures with his viewers on his Youtube channel "the Urban Gardener”. As his passion for growing his own food and gardening grew over the years he never imagined where it would take him. He is constantly surprised by what he gets back by sharing his growing adventure. Book Recommendation: Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/TheUrbanGardener for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you d
Fri, April 19, 2024
808: How to Help Pollinators - A Garden Chat
808: How to Help Pollinators A Garden Chat with Charlotte Wiggins. In This Garden Chat: Ever wonder about pollinators and their impact on our environment? Why are they important and how do they impact the environment around us? Join us as we chat with Charlotte Wiggins and explore all things pollinator! Our Special Guest: Charlotte Ekker Wiggins is an award-winning author, lecturer, master beekeeper and master gardener. After careers in journalism, US Forest Service and US Navy, she’s now chairing an 8-state Midwest partnership to grow beekeeping instructors teaching scientifically-based best management practices. Her 42-year old, one-acre garden, where her neighbors said nothing would grow, is a Monarch Way Station, Certified Wildlife Habitat and apiary. She featured how she developed Bluebird Gardens in her April 2019TEDx talk “Why Bugs Matter.” Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, April 12, 2024
807: Seeds, Are They Dead or Alive? - A Seed Chat
807: Seeds, Are They Dead or Alive? A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the March 2024 Seed Chat - Don’t throw away seeds collected for years. Do a germ test. Germination testing is a vital step to ensure seed viability before planting. We will talk about the process and show you how to determine the ratio of successful germination. Then you can plant the germinated seeds right into the ground. Learning how to germ test empowers growers with crucial insights into seed quality, helping you make informed decisions on seed selection and planting strategies. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds24mar for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, April 09, 2024
806: The Rogue Food Conference with Joel Salatin and John Moody
806: The Rogue Food Conference with Joel Salatin and John Moody Showcasing those who are making a difference in our food systems. In This Podcast: The Rogue Food Conference" is an annual gathering of innovative thinkers and passionate advocates who are challenging the status quo of the food industry. Hosted by Joel Salatin and John Moody, this conference showcases individuals and organizations that have found creative solutions to navigate the regulatory hurdles and bring nutrient-dense, local, and authentic food to their communities. Joel Salatin and his family owned Polyface Farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Featured in the iconic foodie book, Omnivore's Dilemma, An award winning film, Food Inc., the farm's moniker is Healing the Land One Bite at a Time. Joel is a prolific author and speaker. He promotes local food systems, freedom of food choice, and farming systems that build the commons. Joel was a guest on our podcast and appeared in episode 310. John Moody lives in his homestead in the rolling hills of Kentucky. He founded the whole life buying club, one of the largest alternative food distribution approaches in the country. He is the author of five books and a well known speaker at conferences across the country on health, food, farming, and freedom. John is a returning podcast guest and appeared on episode 116 and 535. NOTE: the tickets are available at the Rogue Food Conference website, which is RogueFoodConference. com Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/806Rogue for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: <span class="ql-size-small
Fri, April 05, 2024
805: Jennifer Jewell on the Personal, Ecological and Cultural Significance of Seeds
805: Jennifer Jewell on the Personal, Ecological and Cultural Significance of Seeds. Saving an iconic resource almost lost to history . In This Podcast: We chat with Jennifer Jewell on her journey discovering the significance of seeds. She shared "that my tiny life will end and I will have spent a lot of hot air talking to gardeners, but the seeds are gonna survive. Like we've messed up a lot, but the seeds are still there. And the incredible number of seed keeping humans on the ground everywhere, they are doing great work." Our Guest: Jennifer is the host of the national award-winning weekly public radio program and podcast Cultivating Place: Conversations on Natural History and the Human Impulse to Garden . She is an author and her third book is called What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds . Jennifer’s greatest passion is elevating the way we think and talk about gardening, the empowerment of gardeners, and the possibility inherent in the intersection between places, environments, cultures, individuals, and the gardens that bring them together beautifully – for the better of all the lives on this generous planet. She lives and cultivates her place in interior Northern California with her partner, plantsman John Whittlesey. Jennifer's Book: What We Sow: On the Personal, Ecological, and Cultural Significance of Seeds . Book Recommendation: Braiding Sweeetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/WhatWeSow for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HE
Tue, April 02, 2024
804: Journaling a New Habit with Janis and Ray
804: Janis and Ray on Journaling a New Habit A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Janis Norton and Ray Jess join us for our monthly Rosie on the House Radio hour talking about journaling for gardens and orchards. Our Guests: Janis Norton is the General Manager at The Urban Farm , where she manages several major projects including their Fruit Tree Education Program, The Urban Farm Podcast, and the Permaculture Design Course, as well as their online educational classes, chats, and summits. She earned her degree in Sustainability from Arizona State University, became a Master Gardener, and took her PDC training in Phoenix . While Greg is the visionary at The Urban Farm, Janis is the Implementer – using her superpowers as a project manager to keep things organized and growing our community. Ray Jess is the Manager of the General Store at The Urban Farm Nursery, (worked with Greg to update the Urban Farm Planting Calendar, making adjustments for recent changes in our climate and weather ) Ray was a Master Gardener for six years starting in 2016, completed a Permaculture Design course in 2018 and currently works as a sales associate for a local nursery. Special Note: For part one of Janis's story she wrote from her journaled experience starting her orchard go to The Fruit Tree Mud Bath Salon Visit www.urbanfarm.org/804-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we rec
Fri, March 29, 2024
803: Reviving a 123-Year Old Farm With Veteran Joe Villines
803: Joe Villines on Reviving a 123-Year Old Farm Living a Dream. In This Podcast: We speak with Joe Villines about his history as a media person in the Army and how it has impacted the process of rebuilding the 123-year old farm he and his family purchased. Our Guest: Joe is a father, husband, US Army veteran and co-owner of ‘HalfAcre Farms at Armadillo Acres’ with his partner Lydia in Indianola, Iowa. He attended college for commercial horticulture to further a lifelong interest in growing food. Joe was a photojournalist and broadcaster in the Army Reserve where he served tours in Bosnia, Iraq, Kuwait and other assignments all over the world. Exposure to world strife and world agriculture informed his resolve to raise animals and crops using holistic methods for sale locally. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/HalfAcreFarm for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, March 22, 2024
802: All About Chickens, Goats, and Sheep - A Garden Chat
802: All About Chickens, Goats, and Sheep A Garden Chat with Judith Horvath. In This Garden Chat: Judith joins our Garden Chat and she shares the ins and outs of getting into raising small backyard animals. This includes goats, sheep, and chickens. In this Chat, we explore the pitfalls associated with having small animals and how to avoid them. Our Special Guest: Judith Horvath has journeyed from a white-collar business executive to hair sheep and dairy goat farmer. When COVID and global events laid bare the fragility of our food supply chain, Judith found a way to leave corporate life to concentrate solely on farming. Today she’s helping launch a new generation of small farmers with the goal of establishing a resilient local food supply chain based on regenerative agriculture methods, rotationally grazed grass fed meats, and nutrient dense produce. She’s on a mission to help people get started farming and be immediately successful. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, March 15, 2024
801: Flower Parts for Dummies - a Seed Chat
801: Flower Parts for Dummies . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the February 2024 Seed Chat - Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson simplify the intricate world of flower anatomy into digestible insights for any level of gardener. Emphasizing the relevance of understanding flower parts, the duo investigates flowers, and fruits, highlighting their functions and significance in plant life. Bill and Greg’s informative and fun approach makes plant science accessible and relevant for all. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds24feb for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, March 08, 2024
800: Robbie Shaw on American Chestnut Blight and Rescue
800: Robbie Shaw on American Chestnut Blight and Rescue. Saving an iconic resource almost lost to history . In This Podcast: What if you discovered a long lost tree, one that there used to be billions of two centuries ago, but are now functionally extinct? Today's guest found one and rather than do nothing, she wrote a book about their story. Join Robbie Shaw as she shares the epic adventure of the American Chestnut. Our Guest: Robbie is a naturalist with a deep passion for storytelling that dates back to her childhood. When she stumbled across the New York Times article about an incurable blight that brought about the functional extinction of the American chestnut Forrest, she was moved and shocked. She wondered why generations of her family living in these forests never spoke about this incredible loss and why she had never learned about it in school. It has taken a century, but today’s science and technology exist to address this tragedy and turn back the hands of time. Restoring a functionally extinct species is no small task. The goal of her debut novel, the tree that called us home is to share a story based on true events and disseminate, that story far and wide, so that every American for generations can come to know the beauty of sitting under a spreading chestnut tree and roasting chestnuts on an open fire. Robin holds a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences from Syracuse University and for years taught traditional breeding methods as a high school educator. She also had a career as a financial planner, worked as a ski instructor, is a long-time organic farmer, and was elected to serve as a state representative to the Arizona legislature. Robbie's Book: The Tree That Called Us Home Book Recommendation: The Diamond Cutter by Geshe Michael Roach Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/AmericanChestnut for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.</bl
Tue, March 05, 2024
799: Prepping Soil for New Gardens
799: Prepping Soil for New Gardens A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Soil the most important thing you can be investing in for your garden. Made up of 5 components and if all you have is the dirt component your chances of success are low. Invest the time to learn then invest in soil. This is our Rosie on the House segment with Shota Austin from Tanks green Stuff. Our Guest: Shota Austin has worked in the agricultural industry since 2005 working with livestock (goats, sheep, cattle, chickens), cotton, alfalfa, nursery crops, orchards, and vegetable production. As a former U of A Compost Cat Shota has been working with compost since 2013, and works for Tanks Green Stuff. As the Director of Tanks Green Stuff, he oversees all aspects of the business including production, quality control, product development, sales, marketing, social media, customer service. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/799Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, March 01, 2024
798: Cami Prada on Being a Beginning Farmer
798: Cami Prada on Being a Beginning Farmer A Journey to a more fulfilling lifestyle. In This Podcast: What if it was time for you to leave your corporate life and jump into a life of farming? Well that is exactly what Cami Prada did. She left her life in Miami to start anew in a small town in North Carolina. Now she works at a farm that has an honor stand and with the bee lady working her booth at the farmers market...and is finding life much more fulfilling. Our Guest: Rooted from the vibrant city of Miami Beach, the concept of farming was a distant echo in Cami’s upbringing. It wasn't until adulthood that the notion of 'sustainability' ignited her passion for Earth stewardship. In May 2022, she made a BIG move to the Small quaint town of Burnsville, NC. After a corporate layoff, she found solace and purpose as a farmer at a local farm that doubles as an Honor Produce Stand. Embracing the rural lifestyle, she also lends a hand to a beekeeper friend, sharing the golden sweetness of local honey at her community farmers market. As she delves into the rich tapestry of this new chapter, her aspirations include cultivating the land, fostering community bonds, and dreaming of a self-sufficient future. This is just the beginning of a fulfilling journey towards a more conscious and connected existence. Book Recommendation : Ishmael by Daniel Quinn Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/CrazyAboutMyPlanet for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes an
Fri, February 23, 2024
797: John Collet on Growing From Home Gardener to Market Gardener
794: John Collet on Growing From Home Gardener to Market Gardener Encouraging people to grow food and sell their extra produce at a farmers market In This Podcast: John Collet is a long distance runner that decided after a lifetime of hobby gardening to jump all in to market gardening, without knowing he was doing it. After successfully growing a ton (literally) of food and listening to the Urban Farm Podcast he decided to jump in to his local farmers market and boy was he surprised and pleased. Our Guest: John is a 5 Time NCAA Div 3 All American in Cross Country and Track who has Gardened off and on over the last 30 years. When he turned 50, he got serious about gardening and now has a 50’ x 100’ vegetable garden along with a separate space for apples, peaches, raspberries, black currants and cherries. He and his family grow and eat from his garden year round in Zone 5B where he grows lettuce, kale, collards, spinach, carrots, beets, garlic, onions, leeks, peas, beans, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, turnips, kohlrabi okra and more. And then he found the problem with a garden that big…What to do with all the extra produce. After listening to our podcast he was inspired to start selling his extra produce at the Farmers Market and found it was easy and a lot of fun. He interacted with people who are interested in healthy local food. Plus providing a service of locally grown food without synthetic chemicals means way more to him than anything he did in his prior career. Book Recommendation: American Assassin by Vince Flynn Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/JohnsHeritageGarden for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of
Tue, February 20, 2024
796: Rebecca Newburn on Documenting Seed Libraries
796: Rebecca Newburn on Documenting Seed Libraries Connecting Seed Communities Worldwide. In This Podcast: Join Rebecca Newburn as she shares just what a seed library is and her organizations efforts to document where they are. They have had incredible success in first encouraging people to start seed libraries and now to document their world wide spread, in many different countries and languages. Our Guest: Rebecca is the Co-Founder of Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, a free seed exchange located in the Richmond Public Library in Richmond, California where she lives. The “create a library” template she designed has helped hundreds of seed libraries launch around the world. She is the webmaster for SeedLibraries.net and the editor of Cool Beans! Seed Libraries Newsletter , an international publication supporting local seed projects. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/seedcensus for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, February 16, 2024
795: William Horvath on Permaculture Farming in Croatia
795: William Horvath on Permaculture Farming in Croatia Encouraging and assisting aspiring permaculturists In This Podcast: Join William as he shares his story of growing up in war torn Croatia in the early 1990's then exploring Australia and discovering permaculture first hand from David Holmgren. And finally he tells how he returned home to start his own permaculture adventure and educational platform. Our Guest: William Horvath is a geologist turned permaculture farmer and educator. He runs a small experimental permaculture site in Croatia, Southeast Europe, as well as his website Permaculture Apprentice, where he helps aspiring permaculture farmers and homesteads find, design, and develop their properties. Through his consulting and coaching work, William has assisted over 1,000 people in starting their permaculture properties and implementing permaculture systems, from backyard to broad scale. Book Recommendation: Retro Suburbia by David Holmgren Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/PermacultureApprentice for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, February 13, 2024
794: Kristin Parsons on Guilds - A Rosie Replay
794: Kristin Parsons on Guilds A Rosie On The House Radio Show Replay In This Podcast: Kristin Parsons joined us for our monthly Rosie on the House Radio hour talking about plant guilds. What is a guild you say? It is a beneficial collection of purposely planted plants that self generate in the future. Ya know kinda like nature does. She also share the 7 components of a guild...Enjoy! Our Guest: Kristin is a native Texan, went to college in Kansas, and ended up in Arizona in 2004. She’s been gardening, raising chickens, planting fruit trees, and constructing buildings ever since! She completed her Permaculture Design Course in 2015 and since then has been focusing on local food system development and permaculture. She lives on an half-acre edible landscape property that has over 75 fruit trees n Scottsdale. She and her business partner Melissa run Cultivated LLC., a company that provides hands-on workshops on freeze dried foods and locally grown flowers. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/794Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, February 09, 2024
793: Lee Reich on Growing and Pruning Fruit Trees
793: Lee Reich on Growing and Pruning Fruit Trees Teaching us about where to cut and trim our orchard trees In This Podcast: Lee Reich joins us to share his multi decade journey from perpetual college student to author and fruit tree grower. Lee shares his incredible journey from a chance meeting with Elliot Coleman to his present farmden and beyond. Our Guest: Lee dove into gardening decades ago, initially with one foot in academia, as an agricultural scientist with the USDA and Cornell University, and one foot in the field, the organic field. He eventually expanded his field to a farmden (more than a garden, less than a farm) and left academia to lecture, consult, and write. He has authored nine books and was a syndicated columnist for the Associated Press. Besides providing a year ‘round supply of fruits and vegetables, his farmden provides a testing ground for innovative techniques in soil care, pruning, and growing fruits and vegetables, plus provides an educational site for workshops and trainings. Science and an appreciation of natural systems underpin all of his work. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/leereich for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, February 02, 2024
792: Bryce and Brita Lundberg on Growing Organic Rice
792: Bryce and Brita Lundberg on Growing Organic Rice Continuing a multi-generational practice of regenerative organic farming. In This Podcast: Brita and Bryce Lundberg of Lundberg Family Farms join us to share their four-generation family journey into Regenerative Organic farming. It is an amazing story that started in the great American dust bowl, then created a mantra of leaving the land and environment better than they found it. Our Guests: In 1937, Brita’s great-grandparents left Nebraska in the wake of the Dust Bowl after seeing how farming techniques stripped the land of its topsoil. When they moved to California, they decided to do things differently by tending to soil, air, water, and wildlife as carefully as their crops so they can deliver on their founding promise to leave the land better than they found it. The Lundberg family began farming organically in the late 1960s and, in 2023, became the first U.S. grown rice brand to launch Regenerative Organic Certified® rice. Brita is a fourth-generation farmer, who has “boots-on-the-ground” experience in the fields. She also spent several years honing her storytelling skills in the New York publishing world. However, sometimes it takes leaving home to realize what you left behind. Today, Brita’s favorite story to tell is her family’s. Now, as a resident expert on the brand’s rich history and heritage, Brita shares the Lundberg story with a broad base of eco-conscious consumers. Bryce is a third-generation rice farmer and serves as chair of the Northern California Water Association, is on the board of the Western Canal Water District, and on the California State Board of Food and Agriculture. He has previously served on the boards of California Certified Organic Farmers, the California Organic Food Advisory Board, and the California Rice Research Board, as well as on the standards committee of the Organic Crop Improvement Association. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/LundbergRice for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! <p
Fri, January 26, 2024
791: Jeff Robinson on Grow a Lot with Little Space
791: Jeff Robinson on Grow a Lot with Little Space Growing way more food than one could eat by oneself. In This Podcast: Join us in a conversation with Jeff Robinson about how he grew from a environmental science professional into a professional farmer. In a quarter acre of land and with a little planning he is growing and processing strawberries, blueberries, cucumbers, tomatoes and peppers to prepare and sell salsas, pickles, jams and jellies. He is doing incredible work and has gone from a dream to reality in just a few years. Our Guest: Jeff’s background is in Environmental Science, and has spent the last decade working for regulatory agencies doing compliance inspections to help promote a healthy environment. However, growing plants, vegetables, and flowers has been a passionate hobby of his for close to 15 years and has given him a lot of leftover produce each season. Unwilling to throw it away, he had to think of something to do with all of it and about ten years ago he started canning. Salsas, pickles, and jams were a great solution to the abundance of crops he grows. A couple of years ago, after encouragement from friends and family, he started a business combining gardening, cooking, and canning. It has been a steep learning curve and an immense amount of work, however he’s now harvesting the fruits of his labor! His canned goods are available at farmers markets in Western North Carolina and online. Jeff's Book Recommendation: 4000 Weeks. Time Management for Mortals Visit www.urbanfarm.org/JupiterFarms for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: <
Fri, January 19, 2024
790: Tom Spellman on Best Fruit Tree Pruning Practices
790: Tom Spellman on Best Fruit Tree Pruning Practices. Keeping fruit trees manageable for typical backyards. In This Podcast: What are the best practices for growing fruit trees in our front and back yards. It is not the way fruit trees are grown in orchards. So then what? Join Greg, and Janis as we chat with Tom Spellman from Dave Wilson Nursery to discover the best backyard orchard techniques for you. Our Guest: Tom has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. Since then he has worked for several different nurseries including La Verne Nursery where he was general manager for 20 years. And currently he is the southwestern sales manager for Dave Wilson Nursery for the last two decades. Dave Wilson Nursery is the largest grower of fruit, nut and shade trees in the USA. They grow 10 million plus trees per year and ship wholesale worldwide. Over the past 20 years Tom has also done television, video, radio, written, conducted workshops and lectured on the concepts of Backyard Orchard Culture and fruit growing in general. Tom's dedication and passion for quality fruit growing has taken him to dozens of states in the USA as well as several countries around the globe to consult and lecture on fruit trees and fruit growing concepts. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purcha
Fri, January 12, 2024
789: Wild Flower Seed Chat
784: Wildflower Seed Chat . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the December 2023 Seed Chat - Who doesn't love wildflowers? Contrary to popular belief, you don't toss wildflowers on your land and hope that they grow. Like most crops, they need special tending to get them started. If you're really daring, you might mimic the patterns of the plants whose seeds you want to sprout. But keep in mind, wild plants put out thousands of seeds because so many of them don't make it. They're looking for the odds to be in their favor. Join Bill & Greg as they dive into this seedy topic. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23dec for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, January 09, 2024
788: It’s Not Too Late to Plant Your Fruit Trees - A Rosie Replay
788: It’s Not Too Late to Plant Your Fruit Trees A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: It's not to late to plant your fruit trees and you know the old adage the best time to plant a tree is now and 20 years ago. So let's get to it and plant our trees. Join Greg and Romey as they explore what ultimate fruit tree success really means and how not to waist our time on trees that just don't do all that well. Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23dec for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, January 05, 2024
787: Paul Wheaton on Horticultural Techniques
787: Paul Wheaton on Horticultural Techniques. Teaching an effective way to build hügelkultur gardens. In This Podcast: In this episode we talk to Paul about what is and what isn't hügelkultur. Greg was pretty sure he knew going in what and how to and was really surprised that he was way off base. Join us as we discover how to build our own 7 foot tall hügelkultur bed and why it is important. Our Guest: Paul Wheaton, is an author, producer, certified advanced master gardener, and is the lead mad scientist of Wheaton Labs and Permies.com. After a successful career as a software engineer in aerospace, Paul became obsessed with everything permaculture . He has created hundreds of videos and podcasts, and written dozens of articles and several books. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/WheatonLabs for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, December 29, 2023
786: Judith Horvath on A Resilient Food Supply Chain
786: Judith Horvath on A Resilient Food Supply Chain. Helping small farmers get started successfully. In This Podcast: Twenty years ago, driven by her children's allergies, Judith unknowingly started homesteading—ripping up her lawn to grow clean produce. This journey expanded to a farm. After eight years of a corporate-farming double life, the pandemic prompted a leap into full-time farming and consulting. Now, she helps others embark on farming ventures, fostering spiritual richness. Our Guest: Judith has journeyed from a white-collar business executive to hair sheep and dairy goat farmer. When Covid and global events laid bare the fragility of our food supply chain, Judith found a way to leave corporate life to concentrate solely on farming. Today she’s helping launch a new generation of small farmers with the goal of establishing a resilient local food supply chain based on regenerative agriculture methods, rotationally grazed grass-fed meats, and nutrient dense produce. She’s on a mission to help people get started farming and be immediately successful. Her book recommendation: Miraculous Abundance: A quarter acre, two French farmers and enough food to feed the world . Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/FairHillFarm for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We
Fri, December 22, 2023
785: Vermicomposting - A Garden Chat
785: Vermicomposting A Garden Chat with Enoch Graham. In This Garden Chat: Vermicomposting is an incredibly useful gardening skill that converts kitchen scraps and garden waste into gardener's gold. Join us as we chat with our good friend Enoch Graham to discuss the process that most any gardener can do in their own space. Our Special Guest: Enoch is a small space gardener who has been growing some of his own food for over 12 years in his limited urban space in Southern Oregon. Growing so many different varieties of vegetables and fruits in his limited space garden has taken his gardening skills to a new level each year and he's been sharing his gardening adventures with his viewers on YouTube at The Urban Gardener Channel for the last 7 years. When his passion for growing food grew over the past few years he never imagined where it would take him. He is constantly surprised by what he gets back by sharing his growing adventure. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 850 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, December 15, 2023
784: Grains And Your Gut Instinct - A Seed Chat
784: Grains And Your Gut Instinct . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the November 2023 Seed Chat about how our modern-day grains have gone through huge genetic changes and many would say not particularly for the better. There is a harkening back to ancient and heritage grains that are better for bellies, taste great and are easy to grow. Join us for this Seed Chat to learn about the Fresh Flour movement and how it is taking the country by storm. Come Chat with Us!. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23nov for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, December 08, 2023
783: Christian Marr on Marvelous and Modest Mushrooms
783: Christian Marr on Marvelous and Modest Mushrooms Teaching others about wild food and fungi In This Podcast: Join us on this episode as we delve into the captivating world of wild food and fungi with Christian Marr, a seasoned mycologist and co-founder of Closed Loop Lab LLC. Christian's journey, fueled by a deep passion for the natural world and shaped by her science-oriented upbringing, unfolds into a holistic exploration of healing, academic pursuits, and permaculture experiences. We unravel the metaphorical richness of fungi in understanding life's intricacies, and Christian sheds light on the incredible capabilities of mycelium, the hidden network beneath mushrooms. Our Guest: Christian has been studying mycology and cultivating fungi for over 13 years. She has a BS in Biology plus an Associates of Engineering and recently founded Closed Loop Lab LLC with her business partner and microbiologist, Beth Kennedy. Christian is also very passionate about education and citizen science, she truly believes that the intersection of community building, scientific efforts, and looking to the natural world for solutions will be the sweet spot for healing our human livelihood and our relationship to nature. Christian identifies as a fungi faery and spends most of her free time roaming the woods, foraging, pursuing flow arts and other artistic creations and earth skills. Closed Loop Lab has built an extensive fungi culture library, including local species and strains harvested from the wild, and have been providing quality fungi cultivation products to the local community, as well as creating fungi cultivation installations for local landowners and homesteaders. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/closedloop for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HER
Tue, December 05, 2023
782: Patio Farming - Growing Food in Pots and Containers
782: Patio Farming - Growing Food in Pots and Containers A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay In This Episode: What if farming could be simple? A few pots on the patio, either back or front and you are growing food for yourself and the neighborhood. Join Greg as he chats with Kari Spencer about Patio Farming and how to get it done. It is really that simple. " Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/782-rosie for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, December 01, 2023
781: Alexandra Kutner on You Are What You Eat
781: Alexandra Kutner on You Are What You Eat Bringing a passion for health into a healthy snack business In This Podcast: Join Greg as he chats with Alexandra Kutner and how she transformed her life with a healthy lifestyle, food is medicine, non-toxic house attitude! Alexandra is very passionate about the saying “you are what you eat” and she believes that the proper diet through food from the earth is all that we truly need. Our Guest: Alexandra is a health enthusiast and entrepreneur. As the Creator of EveryDATE Treats , she is driven to promote health and longevity and a true believer and activist of the “you are what you eat” lifestyle. Her passions run deep and her journey to entrepreneurship was created through wanting to spread health to her community and eventually the world. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/EveryDate for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, November 24, 2023
780: Greg & Heidi's New Farm and Garden - A Garden Chat
780: Greg & Heidi's New Farm and Garden . A Garden Chat with Heidi. In This Garden Chat: Join Greg and his long time partner in life as they chat about their move from Phoenix to Asheville, NC and the challenges and fun they have had. Greg had imagines moving to a quieter place for more than a decade when he met Heidi. But Heidi's yoga students were all in phoenix and she wasn't leaving. Until that happened! Covid hit and she had to put all of her yoga classes online. Before long, Heidi had a thriving online yoga business and asked Greg 'Where do you want to live?' Little did Greg know, it would be all the way across the country! Our Special Guest: Heidi Lichte is a 25 year teacher of yoga. Since meeting Greg in 2013, she has implemented the structures of permaculture into her yoga practice and teaching she even did a series of yoga classes based on the principles of permaculture. You can find more about her at YogaWithHeidi.org Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, November 17, 2023
779: Harvesting and Storing Your Seeds - A Seed Chat
779: Harvesting and Storing Your Seeds . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: Join Bill McDorman and Greg as they discuss the five easiest seeds to Collect and store. They discuss processing methods, including how to wet process tomato seeds. It is easier than you think. Then they share how to store your seeds for long term success and what the seed mantra cool, dark and dry means. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23oct for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, November 14, 2023
778: Get Saving Those Seeds, It’s Easier Than You Think - A Rosie Replay
778: Get Saving Those Seeds, It’s Easier Than You Think A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: Join Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson as they chat about the 5 easiest seeds to save. The first one discussed is how to save tomatoes. Plus they share about their yearly event called the GreatAmericanSeedUp.org that is the biggest seed saving bazaar in the country. There is nothing else like it! Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23oct for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, November 10, 2023
777: Graham Hill on Cutting Your Carbon Footprint
777: Graham Hill on Cutting Your Carbon Footprint Helping corporations develop sustainability strategies In This Podcast: Join the creator of TreeHugger.com Graham Hill as he shares about 6 ways to slash your carbon footprint. These ways include reduce by using renewables, reduce miles driven by stacking trips, move to a plant rich diet and Greg's Fav - Compost. Listen to this episode for more examples for carbon foot print reduction. Graham is the founder and CEO of The Carbonauts . He is one of Fast Company's “100 Most Creative People in Business" and has been featured on the cover of Inc . and Dwell Magazines. Before The Carbonauts, Graham founded the ground-breaking website TreeHugger , which was the most trafficked green site for years, with billions of page views. He has worked in the environmental field for over 22 years and is known for his ability to eloquently explain how we can all create a simpler, wealthier, greener, and happier planet. The Carbonauts help Fortune 1000 companies build climate-literate, sustainability enthusiastic cultures via tools such as live, interactive sustainability workshops. The Carbonauts believe that if companies can find and support internal sustainability change-agents that their ranks will start to grow - and once these change agents reach 25% of the company, a rapid transition to a powerful, sustainability-forward culture will take place. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/theC arbonauts for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" rel="noopener noreferrer" ta
Fri, November 03, 2023
776: Maria Rodale on Love, Nature, Magic
776: Maria Rodale on Love, Nature, Magic Sharing enlightening conversations with the living world around us In This Podcast: Maria Rodale comes from three generations of organic gardeners and farmers. Her grandfather founded the Rodale Institute, so at a very young age she was gardening. Throughout her entire life she has advocated for growing organic and even penned a best selling book called Organic Manifesto. Maria calls herself ‘an explorer in search of the mysteries of the universe.’ She is the author of Love, Nature, Magic: Shamanic Journeys into the Heart of My Garden, as well as Organic Manifesto and Scratch, and she writes children’s book under the name Mrs. Peanuckle.. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/MariaRodale for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, October 27, 2023
775: Margaret Bruning on Homesteading as an Artist.
775: Margaret Bruning on Homesteading as an Artist Building community vitality through art, food, and nature In This Podcast: Imagine for a moment...you have a successful career that is on an upward trajectory but something just doesn't feel right. So you decide to move onto your next life by packing up your belongings and hitting the road in a teardrop camper for three years! Exploring the outer world and the inner world and then landing on a homestead in West Virginia! Come along for the ride as Margaret shares the ride of her life! Margaret and her husband David Long have operated Poe Run Craft and Provisions in West Virginia since 2018. The working homestead is dedicated to community vitality through art, food, and nature. Offerings include homestead experiences and artisan foods. Margaret has a master’s degree in art history and 25 years’ experience in arts administration. She completed her Permaculture Design Course while living in Phoenix in 2007. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/PoeRun for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, October 20, 2023
774: Our Secret to Tree Planting Success - a Garden Chat
774: Our Secret to Tree Planting Success . A Garden Chat with Janis Norton. In This Garden Chat: Did you know that plants and trees need to eat every day, but we are taught to plant them in the dirt you have and feed/fertilize them once or twice a year. THAT is NOT a recipe for success. Join Greg & Janis as they share the pathway they discovered over the past 24 years to make our fruit trees, and other trees and plants for that matter thrive! Our Special Guest: Janis is the General Manager at The Urban Farm. Here she oversees several major projects including the Fruit Tree Education Program, The Urban Farm Podcast, the annual Permaculture Design Course, as well as the online educational classes, chats, and summits. She came to the Urban Farm as an intern while earning her degree in Sustainability from Arizona State University. Using her organization and project management skills to help facilitate a couple of The Urban Farm’s larger events, she also took on managing the 2nd Annual Great American Seed Up. She was motivated to learn all she could about gardening and urban farming, eventually becoming a Master Gardener and PDC trained. While Greg is the visionary at The Urban Farm, Janis is the Implementer – using her superpowers as a project manager to make things happen and keep them on task. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you <span class="ql-size-smal
Fri, October 13, 2023
773: Seed Journaling - A Seed Chat
773: Seed Journaling . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the September 2023 Seed Chat about busting the myths around seed journaling. Join Janis Norton and Farmer Greg as they walk you through all the different ways to journal about your garden. Most importantly why it is so valuable to keep track of the myriad of things that you do in your garden and how that can lead to future successes. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23sep for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, October 10, 2023
772: Don't Throw That Away, Compost It - A Rosie Replay
772: Don't Throw That Away, Compost It A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: Join Greg on his monthly Rosie on the House radio show episode as he discusses various and sometimes easier ways to compost before you get to traditional hot composting. Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23sep for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 800 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, October 06, 2023
771: Chris Nycz on My Organic Farming
771: Chris Nycz on My Organic Farming Expanding self-reliant skills, one step at a time. In This Podcast: Join Greg as he chats with Chris Nycz about his journey from college student to weekend farmer to owning his own acres and running a farm to benefit the community. Chris says “It's been a laboratory where I got to try out all sorts of different ideas that I had read about. I think one of the things I would say is I wasn't precisely certain what I wanted to do, so I tried to do a great many things, probably too many things.” Chris was born in Dallas Fort Worth and after deciding that he was interested in organic farming he bought many books on the subject and studied the basic ideas. Using a small portion of father’s land, he created an organic garden and for two years he drove 300 miles round trip to the property almost every weekend. About a decade ago, he realized that he was truly passionate about organic farming, sold his house in the suburbs and bought some land in Southern Oklahoma. Here he has developed the Nycz Organic Farm with work trade opportunities, open-to-the- public visits, and even some organic farm experience vacations. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/NYCZFarm for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you. Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE t
Tue, October 03, 2023
770: What is Backyard Orchard Culture with Tom Spellman
770: What is Backyard Orchard Culture A conversation with a Fruit Tree Expert In This Podcast: Greg interviews Tom Spellman with Dave Wilson Nursery about Backyard Orchard Culture. We learn more about Tom's three simple guidelines for your back or front yard orchards: 1. Keep the tree to a manageable size so that it's easy to harvest. 2. Plant what you love and will use. 3. Grow trees that successively ripen. Tom has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. Since then he has worked for several different nurseries including Nogales Nursery where he learned landscape design, installation, irrigation and construction. Armstrong Nurseries where he worked with hybridizers, growers and retail on the weekends. La Verne Nursery which specializes in Avocado, Citrus, Sub-Tropical fruit trees and grafted ornamentals, where he was general manager for 20 years. And currently is the southwestern sales manager for Dave Wilson Nursery. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/TomBOC for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.</spa
Fri, September 29, 2023
769: Bevin Cohen on Seeds and Weeds
769: Bevin Cohen on Seeds and Weeds Changing the landscape one seed at a time In This Podcast: Greg chats with fellow podcaster Bevin Cohen about the exciting work that he is up to. Bevin is a national speaker and host of the podcast Seeds and Weeds. Has traveled the world looking at local food systems and his favorite thing to do is go someplace and just walk the neighborhoods looking for food growing. Bevin is an award-winning author, herbalist, owner of Small House Farm and host of the popular Seeds & Weeds podcast. Bevin offers workshops and lectures across the country on the benefits of living closer to the land through seeds, herbs, and locally grown food. He is a food and garden writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications including Mother Earth News, Modern Farmer Magazine, and Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company catalog. Bevin is the author or editor of more than ten books, including The Artisan Herbalist and Saving Our Seeds . Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Seedsandweeds for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, September 22, 2023
768: Integrated Pest Management - A Garden Chat
768: I ntegrated Pest Management . A Garden Chat with Teresa Watkins. In This Garden Chat: Integrated pest management is a concept that looks at all the ways of managing pest pressure and uses the least impactful one first. Greg talks with Teresa Watkins about how to use the least harmful method of pest control to the environment first, which could mean picking off insects off the plants, or even spraying aphids off a plant with water. It means using the best management practices to help prevent pests or diseases before they arrive. Our Special Guest: Teresa is a garden author, landscape designer, horticulturist and radio personality. She had the honor of designing the landscape for the first certified green home in Florida. Theresa taught Florida friendly principles for the University of Florida and was instrumental in developing the Florida Water Star Water conservation and certification program. She is the host of the podcast, Better Lawns and Gardens, plus her first gardening book series A Gardener's, compendium: Gardening in a Twitter world in 140 characters or more is available at bookshops, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and on Theresa's website. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because
Fri, September 15, 2023
767: Bugs, Disease, Weather, and Animals - A Seed Chat
767: Bugs, Disease, Weather, and Animals . A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the August 2023 Seed Chat discussing the impact that climate change is having on our crops. With all the excitement in the world Bill proposes to get all the diversity you can into your yard, into your neighborhood, into your community. That means more different kinds of varieties of the favorite crops that you wanna grow and more different kinds of crops off the scale. The more genetic and crop diversity that we have in our communities the better. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23a ug for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you. </spa
Fri, September 08, 2023
766: Kat Savage on The Magic of Mocktails
766: Kat Savage on The Magic of Mocktails Finding fun in the mantra ‘Food is medicine’ In This Podcast: Kat Savage wildcraft harvests many plants from the wild around her home in Asheville, North Carolina and uses fermenting to bring out the best flavors and herbal impacts. She has spent her lifetime observing nature and studying permaculture to bring the magic of local flora to her work. Kat is a former clinical herbalist, who lived in a permaculture community for almost a decade. She loves to "yarden" with medicinal herbs, ‘weeds’, berries, and fruit trees at home, where she forages for her creations for delicious mocktails and cocktails focusing on local, organic, and sustainable. Her non-alcoholic aperitif inspired bitters are blended with the elements of herbalism in mind, and continue an historical tradition of both shrubs and bitters, as a way to preserve the bounty of the season. She loves offering both mocktail and cocktail options and finds that many customers are excited about mocktails these days. 12 Bones Brewing recently collaborated with her for an "on-tap mocktail" for "Dry January." Her brand, SAVOR, is about dropping in and savoring the moment with a tasty beverage, that is crafted from years of focus on "food as medicine" as an herbalist. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/SavorShrub for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests
Tue, September 05, 2023
765: Choosing the right trees for your yard - A Rosie on the House Replay
765: Chosing the Right Trees For Your Yard A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: Join Greg on his monthly Rosie on the House radio show episode as he discusses fruit trees and picking the right one for you. Learn how to understand the value (what you should be paying for a tree) along with the three important success factors. While this is primarily a conversation about low desert varieties there is a bunch of great information for where ever you live. Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23aug for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more!
Fri, September 01, 2023
764: Dee Stevens on Easy Fruit Picking
764: Dee Stevens on Easy Fruit Picking A solution to the challenge of easily picking fruit in our orchards In This Podcast: We meet Dr. Dee Stevens, one of group of friends who took an idea about harvesting fruit easier and safer, and created a product that is innovative and simple to use. They worked through several designs until they came up with one they loved. Greg learns how they came up with the idea, how they navigated through some of the challenges of fruit harvesting, and ended up with a patented solution that backyard orchardists can really appreciate. Dr. Dee S. Stevens, D.C. has been practicing chiropractic care for 34 years. He has worked with the L.A. Rams, the California Angels, the Mighty Ducks professional hockey team, and the U.S.C. Trojans. Because of this experience and training Dr. Stevens performed Chiropractic and rehab on many professional, Olympic, and college athletes. Dr. Stevens is also one of the original inventors of Easy Pickins Fruit Harvester, a patented tool to help us single-handedly pick fruit quickly, easily, and safely. He and his team at RAD Innovations are working on several other innovations. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/EasyPickin f or the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.</span
Fri, August 25, 2023
763: Diane Blazek on New Plant Evaluations
763: Diane Blazek on New Plant Evaluations Organizing trials of new plant varieties with professional judges throughout North America In This Podcast: We are introduced to the organization behind the AAS logo found on seed and plants found most everywhere. Diane Blazek explains how different plants and plant breeders get recognized as standout winners amongst their peers and earn this logo through All American Selections' annual plant trials. Diane is the Executive Director of All-America Selections and National Garden Bureau, she has been deeply (and happily!) immersed in gardening from an early age. From growing up on a small family farm in Missouri to her small suburban lot in the Chicago-land area, she is passionate about everything green. After spending 15 years with Ball Publishing, Diane moved to take on her current role where she can be even closer to the end consumer. Both All-America Selections and National Garden Bureau are in an exciting period of growth and influence both inside and outside the industry with innovative ideas and progressive programs for consumers, garden communicators, public gardens, and a full range of growers and retailers that have benefited all segments of the horticulture industry. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/AllAmerican for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We kn
Tue, August 22, 2023
762: Denali Canning on The Future of Home Preservation
762: Denali Canning on The Future of Home Preservation Building a path to better food preservation and homesteading. In This Podcast: Two friends Prince Singh and Trent Pezzao share their journey of bringing a small business with Big community goals to life! As the founders of Denali Canning they have focused on building a relationship with their home preservation customers, and have really enjoyed the results. They have got a great energy, and a great story. Prince is the visionary co-founder of Denali Canning, on a mission to ignite your love for preserving and making the best food for your families! With a deep commitment to fostering a thriving community, connecting with influential minds, and curating top-tier products. Trent, is the co-founder of Denali Canning, and a kind of homesteading superhero—working mostly behind the scenes—he's always pushing for products that hit the sweet spot between practicality, quality, and good old-fashioned fun. Trent's mission is to bring a sprinkle of joy to self-sufficiency, and to help mold a vibrant, resilient community of modern-day homesteaders with best-in-class canning & preservation products. Denali Canning is a company that was founded to foster a community of creativity, open-mindedness, and heartfelt service through food preservation. they believe that food plus family equals freedom, and Denali is on a mission to help guide you along the path to better canning, preservation and homesteading—every, single, day!. Visit UrbanFarm.org/DenaliCanning for the show notes and links on this episode! Visit DenaliCanning.com/discount/URBANFARM Use code URBANFARM to get $15 off your purchases of $75 or more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click <a href="https://www.urbanfarm.org/patron" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_bl
Fri, August 18, 2023
760: Pro Gardening Tips - A Garden Chat with Zach Loeks
760: Pro Gardening Tips . A Garden Chat with Zach Loeks. In This Garden Chat: This month we will chat with our friend and author Zach Loeks about his tips and tricks for getting the most out of your garden. He is willing to share some of what he learned managing his award-winning farm.. Our Special Guest: Zach grew up on a permaculture homestead in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Working alongside his family, he was immersed in a permaculture design and started his own edible landscape company. He started an organic market garden in Ontario, Canada serving over 300 community supported agriculture (CSA) vegetable baskets, for over a decade and is a three-time Agra award-winning grower. Zach is an innovator of edible ecosystem design, a unique system for organized biodiverse land management. Zach has also published three books, on food system design, and is working on his fourth. Here's the link to the audible book mentioned in this episode: Audible book: The Edible Ecosystem Solution: Growing Biodiversity in Your Backyard and Beyond Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, August 15, 2023
761: Tom Spellman on Heat Stressed Trees - A Tree Chat
761: Tom Spellman on Heat Stressed Trees . A chat with an expert on trees. In This TREE Chat: This is an excerpt from our July 2023 TREE Chat discussing Heat Stressed Trees. We have our mentor Tom Spellman join our monthly Tree Chat to talk about how the heat is affecting our trees in the southwest and how we can help them survive the brutal extremes of the summer season. Tom brings decades of experience to the table as we chat with our zoom audience. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/trees23 july for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Tree Chat? Greg and Janis host Tree Chats – live Zoom webinars focusing on fruit tree care with seasonal tips, harvest alerts, and timely refreshers for success with your fruit trees. And YES we do live Q&A for your fruit tree questions! This monthly class will take place on the 2nd Tuesday of the month, at 5pm AZ time. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly TREE CHATS with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, August 11, 2023
759: Seed Support and Where to Find It- A Seed Chat
759: Seed Support and Where to Find It. A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the July 2023 Seed Chat discussing Seed classes, seed libraries, seed companies, books and teaching tools. We’ll talk about (and link) our favorite resources whether you are starting a community seed library, launching a seed business or looking for that fabulous book you can cuddle up with to find inspiration and context for your seed saving journey. Come Chat with Us! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23 july for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! You can find the pdf that Bill and Greg are refering to in this episode at https://www.seedsave.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Seed-Chat-Resources.pdf What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. EDITOR’S NOTE: Correction to the date of the Seed Chats mentioned in this episode. They take place on the THIRD Tuesday of the month. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if y
Fri, August 04, 2023
758: Jon the Farmer Larson on Seed Sharing in Seattle
758: Jon the Farmer Larson on Seed Sharing in Seattle Spreading seeds in the local community In This Podcast: How do you start a farm? You quit your job, become a stay at home dad, and convince your neighbors to let you use their yards to grow food. Well that is how Jon the Farmer did it. He now farms over 20 yards outside of Seattle, connects the other food growers in the area, and creates and delivers his own CSA boxes to his clients. OH yes and he periodically buys a Seed Up In a Box and distributes open pollinated seeds to his community! Jon is a husband and father that to this day cannot keep a house plant alive! Initially inspired by Ron Finley’s TED talk and Urban Farmer, Curtis Stone – in 2018 Jon and his wife (Dawn) manifested Jon the Farmer – Urban Farmer. The business grew organically from three small backyard locations to 20 growing locations in the city of Seattle. Jon the Farmer serves 30 households with weekly CSA share, and contributes to two food banks, all while supporting small farmers with connection to distribution. But the love is in the encouraging of home gardeners to become part of their own food revolution by participating in programs like the Great American Seed Up. Jon & Dawn now grow nutrient dense produce with organic principals and sustainability at its core, on ¼ acre farm on the outskirts of Seattle. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/jonthefarmer for the show notes and links on this episode! Visit www.GreatAmericanSeedUp.com for your own Seed Up In a Box. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliat
Tue, August 01, 2023
757: Extreme Heat and Ways To Kill Our Plants
757: Extreme Heat and Ways To Kill Our Plants A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: This is the July 2023 show discussing extreme heat and Greg goes in depth on three ways to avoid letting the heal kill our plants and trees. In this conversation, Greg shares with Romey the lessons he learned while growing fruit trees in the desert that make a big difference in having our plant survive and that is: location, ground cover, and watering. They go further in depth on each of these to help know what steps to take to protect your plants. Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23 june for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more!
Fri, July 28, 2023
756: Richard Heinberg on Power, Energy, and Climate Change
756: Richard Heinberg on Power, Energy, and Climate Change Working to remove fossil fuels from the food system In This Podcast: Richard Heinberg joins the show to talk about how our power and energy systems affect our food system and how that affects the planet's ability to sustain our species. He shares his insight on how we've gotten to where we are now and some proposed solutions that are based on self-limiting our power. He gives us ways to get involved and to be more educated. Richard is a senior fellow of the Post Carbon Institute. He's an author, educator, and lecturer, and has spoken widely on energy and climate issues to audiences across the globe. He's the author of fourteen books, including the most recent Power Limits and Prospects for Human Survival , along with his podcast of the same name. He is widely published in Nature, the Wall Street Journal and literary review, and has delivered hundreds of lectures on energy and climate issues to audiences on six continents, addressing policymakers at many levels Visit Urbanfarm.org/PowerLimits for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, July 21, 2023
755: Water Harvesting For Our Gardens - A Garden Chat.
755: Water Harvesting For Our Gardens. A Garden Chat with Don Titmus. In This Garden Chat: "Rain, Rain, go away?" Whoever said that never had to water a garden in the summer months. Join us as we chat with our good friend and water harvesting educator Don Titmus about boosting our water resources for our gardens with a few simple systems that can quickly pay for themselves. Our Special Guest: Don Titmus grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then started his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don . He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. He co-founded the Phoenix Permaculture Guild, started a Permaculture design company, redesigned his home site into a permaculture design destination, and helped develop a thriving permaculture community in the Phoenix, Arizona area. He has presented in 5 cities, worked in several states, attended classes in 5 states, and pretty much lives and breathes permaculture. NOTE: Go to WaterHarvestSummit.com to learn more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the
Tue, July 18, 2023
754: Daniel Sweeney on Seven Springs Farm Supply Pt 2
754: Daniel Sweeney on Seven Springs Farm Supply Pt 2 What is Healthy Soil? In This Podcast: Greg recently interviewed Daniel Sweeney and part of that conversation was worth it's own breakout podcast episode. This episode is focused on the questions around what healthy soil is and how to improve your own soil. Listen in and see what Greg found out. Daniel has been the Crop Adviser at Seven Springs since 2018 and he enjoys working with farmers and helping them find solutions. Prior to joining Seven Springs, Daniel managed, large fruit and vegetable farms. He now raises a flock of registered Shetland sheep and experiments with sunflowers and other fun cover crops. Seven Springs Farm Supply has been serving farmers and gardeners since 1990. They offer a comprehensive selection of soil amendments, growing mixes, pest and disease control products, and cover crop seeds for the organic grower. Visit www.urbanFarm.org/sevensprings 2 for the show notes and links on this episode! Click HERE to shop at Seven Springs and support the Urban Farm at the same time. Use code URBAN7 at check out. Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! **Sponsor Disclosure: This podcast is with a sponsor to our podcast program. We will only partner with sponsors that meet a rigorous criterion of values and offer products that we can feel good about endorsing. By being a sponsor, the business or organization has entered into a financial agreement which may i
Fri, July 14, 2023
753: Seed Saving and Climate Change - A Seed Chat
753: Seed Saving and Climate Change. A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Seed Chat: This is the June 2023 Seed Chat discussing Seed Saving and Climate Change. Have you noticed anything odd recently? Perhaps climate change has your community a bit up in arms. Unexpected rain, hotter high temps, lower low temps. How do we prepare for changing climatic conditions in terms of growing and saving seeds? Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson will delve into this ever-evolving topic and offer tips for riding the waves of uncertainty. Come Chat with Us! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23 june for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! What is the Seed Chat? At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Monthly Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and
Tue, July 11, 2023
752: Daniel Sweeney on Seven Springs Farm Supply
752: Daniel Sweeney on Seven Springs Farm Supply Bringing farming supplies to the organic grower In This Podcast: Greg has a great chat with Daniel Sweeney to more about how the Seven Spring Farm Supply organization began and what they are doing now. Greg really wanted to know more about their values and how they treat their customers. Listen in and see what Greg found out. Plus see what special Seven Springs has for our listeners. Daniel has been the Crop Adviser at Seven Springs since 2018 and he enjoys working with farmers and helping them find solutions. Prior to joining Seven Springs, Daniel managed, large fruit and vegetable farms. He now raises a flock of registered Shetland sheep and experiments with sunflowers and other fun cover crops. Seven Springs Farm Supply has been serving farmers and gardeners since 1990. They offer a comprehensive selection of soil amendments, growing mixes, pest and disease control products, and cover crop seeds for the organic grower. Click HERE to shop at Seven Springs and get the special discount using code URBAN7 Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/SevenSprings for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. **Sponsor Disclosure: This podcast is with a sponsor to our podcast program. We will only partner with sponsors that meet a rigorous criteria of values and offer products that we can feel good about endorsing. By being a sponsor, the business or organization has entered into a financial agreement which may include a direct payment, an affiliate commission, or other compensation. It is through these sponsorships that we are able to con
Fri, July 07, 2023
751: Mike Crimmins and Gary Woodard on Logging The Rain
751: Mike Crimmins and Gary Woodard on Logging The Rain Collecting rainfall information in a cooperative community project In This Podcast: Rainlog.org is one of the coolest Citizen science projects available. Simply purchase a rain gauge create an account and track your rain. Join Farmer Greg as he chats with the creators of the site. Mike and Gary came together 20 years ago to track rural rainfall in Arizona and their project has expanded worldwide and includes millions of readings. Mike is on the faculty of the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Arizona and is an Extension Specialist in Climate Science for Arizona Cooperative Extension. He has been in this role for 18 years working with ranchers, farmers and natural resource managers across Arizona to integrate climate information in their planning and decision making and assisting them in developing strategies to adapt to a changing climate. Gary has more than 40 years of experience in municipal water resource issues both a consultant, and as a researcher at the University of Arizona. He specializes in integrating economic analysis with water resources issues, providing a critical bridge often missing from policy decisions. He works on projects that involve modeling municipal water demand, forecasting trends, evaluating the impacts of drought and climate change on water demand, rainwater harvesting, and assessing water conservation programs. Together they have developed an incredible citizen science data collection page called Rainlog.org Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/rainlog for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts ar
Tue, July 04, 2023
750: Rainwater for our Landscape with Don Titmus
750: Rainwater for Our Landscapes with Don Titmus A Rosie on The House Radio Show Replay "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey Romero consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." In This Show: This is the June 2023 show discussing rainwater harvesting for the benefit of our landscapes. Don Titmus joined Romey and Greg to talk about the realities of collecting rainwater in the Sonoran Desert to use for our landscapes. Don explains how his passive rainwater collection system waters trees that are upslope from his house solving the problem of too much water on his back patio during the summer rains. They discuss why collecting rainwater is important, some simple and economical ways to sink water into the property, and other effective ways to make the most out of efforts to preserve this crucial resource. Rosie on The House: On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk with Romey about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… 7 Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting * Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving * Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23 june for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more!
Fri, June 30, 2023
749: Maayan Chelsea and Scotty Karas on Ritual Farming
Connecting people to the cycles and rhythms of growing food In This Podcast: Maayan Chelsea and Scotty Karas share how they integrated their interests in sustainability with their desire to grow food and build community, and along the way recognized the rhythms and cycles of nature that connect people to the earth. They’ve been able to eat meals that but for the spices are 100% from their own garden and we learn how they got to this point and where they go next. Mayaan and Scotty are a husband-and-wife team living in community at SunSong Community in Barnardsville, North Carolina. Maayan is a mother, Earth steward, Flower grower and belly feeder, while Scotty is a farmer, orchardist, and community weaver. Together they co-founded Soul Gardens, an organization that hosts programs and workshops that connect people to the Earth and the source of their nourishment. Soul Gardens offers a 7-month long, once a week Ritual Farming Immersion that immerses adults in deep care for the Earth, growing and preserving food, working together in community, and connecting to the cycles & rhythms of the seasons. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/soulgarden for the show notes and links on this episode! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you. © Urban Farm
Fri, June 23, 2023
748: Small Space Gardening, a Garden Chat with Enoch Graham
Small Space Gardening, a Garden Chat with Enoch Graham In This Garden Chat: If you only have a little space to grow food, let's chat about how to make the most of that space. This month we chatted with Enoch Graham, of the YouTube channel The Urban Gardener, about some of the best ways to maximize a harvest out of a minimal space. Our Special Guest: Enoch is a small space gardener who's been growing some of his own food for over 12 years and has limited earth, urban space garden in southern Oregon. Growing so many different varieties of fruits and vegetables in his limited garden space, has taken his gardening skills to a new level every year. He's been sharing his gardening adventures with his viewers on his YouTube channel, the Urban Gardener for the last seven years. That's impressive. Yeah. When his passion for growing his own food and gardening grew over the years, he never imagined where it would take him. He is constantly surprised by what he gets back by sharing his growing adventure. Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden? The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback. Click HERE to learn more! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, June 16, 2023
747: All About Grexing, A Seed Chat
740: All About Gexing, a Seed Chat. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the May 2023 Seed Chat discussing a gardening concept that involves mixing seeds on purpose before planting with a goal of cross-pollination. A Grex is a mixture of varieties growing together and encouraged to cross-pollinate. The seeds from those crosses are grown out again and again. Instead of crossing two parents to create offspring, the breeder crosses dozens. The word Grex means ‘flock’. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23may for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Fri, June 09, 2023
746: Renee Dang on Rainwater Harvesting.
Learning about Collecting The Rain and Sharing the Journey. In This Podcast: Renee Dang wanted to learn more about Rainwater Harvesting, and as she jumped into researching this topic, she used her lack of experience to ask important questions that every new water harvester wants to ask. She explains how using this unique perspective, and her strength in technical writing, she works to help others understand a water sustainability option for any property that receives rain. Renee is an author, aspiring homesteader, and researcher who is passionate about self-sufficiency and living off the land. Her goal is to help families feel empowered with their natural resources. She loves to spend time outdoors in the North Georgia mountains with her amazing family making a mess in the kitchen. "Harvesting Rainwater for Your Homestead in 9 Days or Less" is her first book. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/ReneeDang for the show notes and links on this episode! To get her book go here: Harvesting Rainwater for Your Homestead in 9 Days or Less: 7 Steps to Unlocking Your Family's Clean, Independent, and Off-Grid Water Source with the QuickRain Blueprint Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more. *Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you . We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.
Tue, June 06, 2023
745: Native Edibles with Peggy Sue and Mike.
745: Native Edibles with Peggy Sue and Mike. A Rosie on the House Radio Show. Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show "Rosie on the House". This is the May 2023 show discussing Native edibles and Mesquite. Native edibles in the southwest are a fun way to experience the local desert. Greg and Romey chat with guests Peggy Sue Sorenson and Mike Clow and talk about some of the best and easiest edible finds in the local area. They talk about how to harvest wild crops like mesquite and so much more. Hear how they collect a variety of different fruits and beans from native desert plants and what to do with the harvest afterwards! "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting Smart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed Saving Sonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture Tidbits Come join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23 may for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information! Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, June 02, 2023
744: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 2.
Changing the world one podcast episode at a time In This Podcast: This is part two an extraordinary interview where Greg discusses personal permaculture beginnings with Scott Mann. In this episode we start with our signature questions and learn more about what he thinks his biggest failure is and how he overcame it, what his biggest success is, and what drives him. This conversation goes off into a great conversation and further into the meanderings of permaculture. Scott Mann is the creator and host of The Permaculture Podcast , the longest running podcast dedicated to Permaculture in the world. In more than a decade of producing this show, he has interviewed hundreds of practitioners, from authors and scientists to artists and educators, working to create abundant solutions that imagine a more beautiful planet for everyone and all life. When not sharing these messages with the world, as a way to spend time with and care for his growing family, you can find him cooking in the kitchen or playing games around the table, all while heavy metal plays somewhere in his home. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcast for the show notes and links on this episode! 744: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 2. www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcast Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Tue, May 30, 2023
743: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 1.
Changing the world one podcast episode at a time In This Podcast: In an extraordinary two-part interview, Greg discusses personal permaculture beginnings with Scott Mann . After finally finding a permaculture design course that fit his schedule, Scott journeyed into a world of solutions was so impactful that it changed his life direction. He weaves a story for us that is both moving and inspirational, where he eventually lands, among other things, starting a podcast focused on permaculture and interviewing some amazing people along the way. Scott is the creator and host of The Permaculture Podcast , the longest running podcast dedicated to Permaculture in the world. In more than a decade of producing this show, he has interviewed hundreds of practitioners, from authors and scientists to artists and educators, working to create abundant solutions that imagine a more beautiful planet for everyone and all life. When not sharing these messages with the world, as a way to spend time with and care for his growing family, you can find him cooking in the kitchen or playing games around the table, all while heavy metal plays somewhere in his home. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/permaculturepodcast for the show notes and links on this episode! 743: Scott Mann on The Ripples of Permaculture Pt 1. Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click HERE to learn more.
Fri, May 26, 2023
742: David Sands on Bamboo in Construction
Using to bamboo to help address the climate crisis In This Podcast: David Sands shares his journey from trying to be a better steward for the planet and how that evolved into him starting a business offering bamboo wood for building lumber. We learn why this is such a renewable resource and some of its unique aspects that can help as we seek solutions for the climate crisis. David is the Founder, Director and Chief Product Officer for Bamboo Ecologic Corporation and RIZOME. A company that is reforesting thousands of acres and producing laminated bamboo building materials. Their mission - Sequester gigatons of carbon by developing giant bamboo into a primary global building material. David also helped develop the first US building code standard for structural bamboo. As a side note Greg shares that he found RIZOME through an investment platform that he belongs to and has invested in the company! Visit www.urbanfarm.org/bambootimber for the show notes and links on this episode! David Sands on Bamboo in Construction. Become an Urban Farm Patron and listen to more than 775 episodes of the Urban Farm Podcast without ads. Click here to learn more.
Fri, May 19, 2023
741: Soil: The Easiest Way to Get Great Results
Soil: The Easiest Way to Get Great Results A Garden Chat with Zach Brooks Let's talk about the science and the beauty of the soil that our food grows in. Zach Brooks joins us to share his secrets on making organic, no-till gardening the laziest and easiest way to get great results. Zach's work at Arizona Worm Farm has given him a chance to experiment with a variety of soil building methods and he shares what he has learned. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org Zach semi-retired from Healthcare Management at age 42 when his consulting company went public. And when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second Masters Degree, in Sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable – but fixable with “off the shelf” practices and technologies, Zach set out to prove that an off-the-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. Five years ago he bought 10 acres in South Phoenix and began Arizona Worm Farm and started experimenting.
Fri, May 12, 2023
740: Seed Chat on Companion Planting
740: Companion Planting, a Seed Chat. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the April 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore what it means to companion plant, and it depends on what you want to accomplish. From a permaculture perspective, can also be called the whole systems perspective, companion planting looks at every aspect of your ecosystem. This brings into play guilds, pollinators, planting things that thrive together and avoiding things that don’t like each other and building ecosystems that work together. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23apr for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, May 09, 2023
739: Keeping Chickens, Goats and More in Your Backyard
Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show "Rosie on the House". What animals can you host on your urban farm? Let's start with Backyard chickens of course. Our friend Kari Spencer joins Greg and Romey in a discussion on which animals work in an urban setting and why. Kari is an amazing homesteader, master gardener, and author of City Farming and Vegetable Gardening Journal. "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting Smart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed Saving Sonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture Tidbits Come join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23 apr for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!
Fri, May 05, 2023
738: Edmund Williams on The Phoenix Backyard Garden Program
Edmund Williams on The Phoenix Backyard Garden Program. Changing the face of food in phoenix. Ed Williams joins Greg on the podcast to bring us up to date on the project he is tackling in the heart of Phoenix to transform the world of urban agriculture with one simple way of growing food. Ed has been working hard to create a system that will make a difference in reducing food deserts at a level that the individual gardener can reach, yet can be supported by cities anywhere. He goes further and explains what democratizing the food system. Ed is a civil engineer and urban agriculture innovator. He has developed a new method of gardening called a LEHR Garden, a garden system that combines 12 different methods and practices of gardening, soil creation, and ecosystem repair into one cohesive system that is designed to meet the unique challenges of urban agriculture. Between water struggles and the decline of urban farmland, Phoenix has an urgent need to develop a resilient food system. Like in most cities a massive, largely unused, land resource in the form of large backyards is available. As one part of the solution to food insecurity and resilience, the City of Phoenix is reviving the concept of Victory Gardens. Just as everything else has changed since the 1940s, gardening and farming have changed drastically. Phoenix is testing building gardens in backyards and LEHR Innovations is one of the partners. Ed is not just trying to figure out how to get people gardening, but KEEP them gardening, all through the power of living, regenerative soil. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/05/05/738-edmund-williams/ for show notes and links. Edmund Williams on The Phoenix Backyard Garden Program
Tue, May 02, 2023
737: Steven Churchill on Worm Composting
Worm Composting Simplifying Vermicomposting And Making It Easy For Anyone To Start A chance encounter at a farmers market led Greg to meet Steve Churchill, the creator of the worm bag he had recently bought. In this interview, Steve explains the reason he designed a new worm composting bag and explains many of the ins and outs of vermicomposting. Steve Churchill is the owner of the Urban Worm Company, a vermicomposting-related blog, online store, and manufacturer of the Urban Worm Bag. Through the Urban Worm blog, social media, and e-mail interactions with his readers, Steve is a joyful promoter of vermicomposting as a means to turn household and commercial waste into a highly valuable soil amendment. Steve is also a retired military veteran and a pilot for Southwest Airlines. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/05/02/737-steve-churchill/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 28, 2023
736: Debra Knapke on Climate Resilient Gardens.
Encouraging every gardener to have some permaculture principles in their toolbox. Debra Knapke and Greg discuss the climate shifts they have experienced in different parts of the country. Learn how to take these shifts into consideration by incorporating some basic permaculture principles into your garden planning. Treat the earth with respect, and your garden will be healthier and more resilient. After two previous careers, in 1992 Debra turned her avocation of plant study and gardening into her full-time career. Debra is passionate about gardening, sustainable garden design and the natural world, and enjoys sharing knowledge through her writing, public speaking, and garden consulting in the private and public sectors. In addition, she has mentored the future of the landscape industry at Columbus State Community College for 24 years. Debra boasts an eclectic garden packed into two thirds of an acre. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/28/736-debra-knapke/ for show notes and links. Debra Knapke on Climate Resilient Gardens
Fri, April 21, 2023
735: Your First Garden Is Your Worst Garden
A chat with Emily Rockey and Greg Peterson. In This Garden Chat: Are you starting your first garden? Take heart!! Your First Garden is Your Worst Garden, and that means yes, you can experience a variety of challenges, setbacks, excitement, and successes too. Let's talk about these and what comes next. Join Emily Rockey and Farmer Greg as they explore the pitfalls of starting a garden anew. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A
Fri, April 14, 2023
734: Seed and Plant Selection for Challenging Gardens
734: Seed and Plant Selection For Challenging Gardens. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the March 2023 class discussing seed and plant selection. Join Farmer Greg and Bill McDorman as they explore all the magical places to grow your garden. Restricted by where you can plant your garden? How do you optimize difficult spaces to plant your favorite vegetables? We will help you navigate challenges with areas never targeted for beautiful eye-catching gardens. It is possible! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23mar for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, April 11, 2023
733: You Too Can Have an Urban Farm
Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show Rosie on the House. What is an urban farm, anyway? Learn how you can level up your participation in the local food economy by growing your own food. Greg talks about how to get started, different methods of farming, and even ways to make a little cash, either as a side hustle or a full time profession. Wherever you are right now, grow some delicious food, name your space, and reap the benefits of having your own urban farm! "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting Smart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed Saving Sonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture Tidbits Come join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rosie23Mar for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!
Fri, April 07, 2023
732: Aurora Rogers on Resilient Pioneering
Homesteading Off The Grid. Join Aurora Rogers and Greg for a lively conversation about resiliency, home steading, low grid and becoming financially free. Aurora is a Venezuelan designer and process consultant devoted to creating resilient frameworks for every area of her life. Her usband of 24 years is Jason, who is an American engineer devoted to creating effective systems for growing food, generating fuel, and building sustainable homes. Aurora believes that the currency of the future are heirloom seeds and resilient living skills. Aurora Rogers and her husband, Jason founded Producing Freedom Academy for families and broadcast their Resilient Pioneer Podcast Livestream on Youtube where they interview their favorite experts and talk about off grid survival, primitive homesteading, and other related topics which encourage their audience to create healthy and vibrant ecosystems. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/07/732-aurora-rogers/ for show notes and links. Aurora Rogers on Resilient Pioneering
Tue, April 04, 2023
731: Greg on Let's Get Growing with Enoch Graham
Greg on Let's Get Growing with Enoch Graham Getting a View of How Greg got to 'Urban Farmer'. On today’s podcast I have a replay of my interview from the Let’s Get Growing You Tube Channel. I am so excited to have joined Enoch, Aisha, Michella and Mark for an amazing conversation and exploration of my history around gardening and what I am up to in the world. The thing I love about their show is it is fun, educational and we had a blast. I would like to invite you to check out their you tube channel @TheUrbanGardner every Saturday midday for new guests and lots of great gardening information. Now let’s get on with the show! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/04/04/731-greg-peterson/ for shownotes and links. Greg on Let's Get Growing with Enoch Graham.
Fri, March 31, 2023
730: Samara Price on the Exceptional Elderberry
Samara Price on the Exceptional Elderberry Handcrafting a local berry into gourmet products In This Podcast: Greg speaks with Samara Price about a tiny berry with huge potential. Like many people, Samara became interested in elderberries for their health benefits and she began making syrup. But she has discovered there are so many other ways to use them! They also make delicious and healthy beverages, baked goods, and even condiments. Hear how her interest in this amazing food has grown into both a business and a passion. Samara Price is the founder of Brew Naturals, a gourmet elderberry company based out of Western Northern Carolina. Brew Naturals is a farm to table product that focuses on real ingredients, delicious flavor and full body wellness. For years, elderberry has been seen primarily just as wellness products, however Samara is committed to making the most delicious elderberry products in the region to showcase their versatility. She is passionate about saving this berry from obscurity by highlighting the culinary creativity it inspires! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/03/31/730-samara-price/ for shownotes and links.
Fri, March 24, 2023
729: What Is Permaculture
A chat with Janis Norton and Greg Peterson. In This Garden Chat: Join Janis and Greg as they discuss what is permaculture and how can we begin to integrate it into our lives. They start with a discussion of the definition of permaculture then dive into the 8 principles that are used in the Phoenix Permaculture Design Course or PDC. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A
Fri, March 17, 2023
728: The Impact of Seeds and Planning
728: The Impact of Seeds and Planning. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the February 2023 Seed Saving Class discussing the impact of seeds and planning. Bill and Greg Peterson give an overview of how to save some basic seeds and how to plan your garden for seed saving. No, you don’t need acres of land, pollination bags or combines. Some simple concepts will help you plan for the next steps in your seed saving adventure. They chat through the latest things in seed saving and review the 5 easiest seeds to save. And as a bonus they chat about how to do a germination test. It is easier than you think. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds23feb for the show notes on this, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, March 14, 2023
727: Food Forests on Rosie on the House
Join Farmer Greg on his monthly segment on the Arizona Radio Show Rosie on the House. In this episode Greg chats about how to create a food forest in your front and back yard, plus reviews the 7 layers of your food forest. He also explains how to set up zones in your space. You are not going to want to miss this one! "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting Smart Watering Tips * FruitTrees * Seed Saving Sonoran Desert Weather *Permaculture Tidbits Come join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rose23Feb for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!
Fri, March 10, 2023
726: Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture, Part 2
Restoring Planetary Health and Rebuilding After an Impact In This Podcast: This is the second part of Greg’s interview with Rosemary Morrow , a member of the first generation of what we now call the Permaculture Movement. We reached out to some of our friends in the permaculture community and asked, “If you could talk to Rowe , what would you ask her?” Learn more about Rosemary’s decades of experience teaching permaculture all over the world as she discusses the answers to these thought-provoking questions. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Rosemary Morrow is a permaculture teacher, author, speaker, and agricultural scientist. She has spent decades travelling the world designing healthy living systems and applying permaculture as a practice to restore our planetary health. She has worked locally across Australia as well as globally with farmers and villagers in Africa, Central and Southeast Asia; people of war-torn nations such as Vietnam and Afghanistan; and communities experiencing the serious effects of climate change like the Solomon Islands. Rosemary's latest book, Earth Restorer’s Guide to Permaculture , brings together 40 years of evidence-based approaches to guide us towards the regeneration of our Earth. Endorsed by the United Nations as a tool for their Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, this book shares how communities, cities, workplaces, and governments can collectively and positively shape our futures. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture , Part 2. urbanfarm.org/Rowe
Tue, March 07, 2023
725: Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture
Restoring Planetary Health and Rebuilding After an Impact In This Podcast: In this very special episode, Greg talks with Rosemary Morrow , a member of the first generation of what we now call the Permaculture Movement. Rosemary has decades of experience teaching permaculture all over the world and she shares how that global perspective influenced her most recent book. Hear about her definition of permaculture, her philosophy on teaching permaculture, and her experiences teaching permaculture to people in many different countries. We are delighted to have Rosemary on our podcast! Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Rosemary Morrow is a permaculture teacher, author, speaker, and agricultural scientist. She has spent decades travelling the world designing healthy living systems and applying permaculture as a practice to restore our planetary health. She has worked locally across Australia as well as globally with farmers and villagers in Africa, Central and Southeast Asia; people of war-torn nations such as Vietnam and Afghanistan; and communities experiencing the serious effects of climate change like the Solomon Islands. Rosemary's latest book, Earth Restorer’s Guide to Permaculture , brings together 40 years of evidence-based approaches to guide us towards the regeneration of our Earth. Endorsed by the United Nations as a tool for their Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, this book shares how communities, cities, workplaces, and governments can collectively and positively shape our futures. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Rosemary Morrow on the Earth Restorer's Guide to Permaculture . urbanfarm.org/Rowe
Fri, March 03, 2023
724: Phyllis Stiles on the Bee City USA Program
Appreciating the Variety of Pollinators That Visit Our Gardens In This Podcast: Phyllis Stiles is someone who loves to create a buzz about pollinators. She became fascinated with bees when she started keeping her own, and that led to an appreciation of and sense of responsibility for all pollinators. As she became aware of the problems they face, she decided to do something about it and created the Bee City USA program. The program certifies for cities and universities, but as Phyllis explains, there are also many things that individuals anywhere can do to help our friends the pollinators. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Phyllis Stiles is founder and director emerita of Bee City USA®, which began in Asheville, NC in 2012. The North American Pollinator Protection Campaign named her “Pollinator Advocate of the Year for the United States” in 2015, the same year the sister program, Bee Campus USA, launched. To date, more than 330 cities and campuses in 46 states have joined the Bee City and Bee Campus USA networks. Phyllis has made well over a hundred presentations and published countless newspaper and magazine articles about pollinator conservation across the nation. She spent her career at universities and non-profit organizations serving communities from West Africa to the Mississippi Delta, in fields ranging from natural resource and farmland protection to fundraising. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Phyllis Stiles on the Bee City USA Program. urbanfarm.org/BeeCityUSA
Tue, February 28, 2023
723: Bodacious Garden
723: Bodacious Garden. A Rosie on the House Radio Show. In This Podcast: This is the January 2023 show discussing how to grow your own BODACIOUS edible garden. Greg covers all the bases – sun, water, soil, and garden helpers. Plant your garden where it will get just the right balance of sun and shade by determining your garden’s solar aspect and observing the light as it moves throughout your space each day and each season. Seek out every drop of water available to you. Before you default to the typical drip irrigation system, consider also harvesting grey water, rainwater and air conditioning condensate. The next, and most important component is healthy soil. You’ll want to be sure it contains all five of the following: dirt, airspace, water, organic matter, and living organisms. Greg talks about how to improve soil that is lacking in any of these things. And last but certainly not least, he explains how chickens and weeds make fantastic garden workers. "Rosie on the House is a father and son weekly radio show on home-improvement advice that is found on several key Arizona radio stations. It is a trusted source of home-improvement advice and know-how. Rosie and Romey consider that an honor and a responsibility, a feeling that Greg shares." On the fourth Saturday of each month, Farmer Greg will talk about all aspects of gardening and urban farming in the Arizona climates… Gardening Tips * Chickens * Composting Smart Watering Tips * Fruit Trees * Seed Saving Sonoran Desert Weather * Permaculture Tidbits Come join us for the next broadcast or catch up on our previous shows through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your knowledge about growing food in the local desert and gain new perspectives on your food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/Rose23Jan for the show notes on this episode and broadcasting information!
Fri, February 24, 2023
722: Donna Balzer on Growing Lemons for Profit
Making a Little Side Income Growing Citrus in the Pacific Northwest In This Podcast: Do you wish you could grow citrus but live outside of California or Florida? Donna Balzer is growing lemons in Canada and she loves to teach others how she does it. She and Greg discuss all the juicy details, covering topics from the roots to the leaves. Donna explains how she cares for her citrus trees in the harsher climate using some unique methods to protect them from frost. In return, they give her a delicious harvest that is not easily found in her area, and even a little bit of income. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Donna Balzer is the co-host of the internationally aired HGTV show “Bugs & Blooms", a regular guest on CBC radio in Alberta, a very popular and inspirational public speaker around gardening, and the bestselling author of No Guff Vegetable Gardening . She lives with her adoring husband in Qualicum Beach, B.C. with their puppy. She has two greenhouses, twelve grandchildren, three grand-dogs, four grand-cats and two grand-guinea pigs all spread across Alberta and B.C. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Donna Balzer on Growing Lemons for Profit. urbanfarm.org/DonnaBalzer
Fri, February 17, 2023
721: Mike Smith on A Demonstration Organic Farm
Teaching people of all backgrounds about sustainably growing food (at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming) In This Podcast: Mike Smith studied political science with the intention of changing agricultural policy and making a difference from the top down. As important as that s, he eventually discovered that he could make a bigger impact on the ground – literally, with his hands in the earth. Now he works at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming in Canada, actually growing food and teaching others how to do the same. In this episode, Mike talks about the positive impact this has had on his life and on the local food economy. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Mike Smith manages day-to-day farm operations, including planning and preparing materials for the cropping season, at the Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming, a one-hectare (that is 2.47 acres) learning and research facility within the Department of Agriculture at the University of Guelph. Here he works with stakeholders, recruits staff, supervises interns and volunteers, and plays a key role in enhancing educational and outreach activities. Mike received his B.A. in political science with a focus in agricultural policy from McMaster University and post-graduate certificate in project management from the University of Toronto. His education and experience give him a solid background in organic vegetable production, from planting to post-harvest activities, which he is using to impact the community. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Mike Smith on A Demonstration Organic Farm. urbanfarm.org/Guelph
Fri, February 10, 2023
720: Chris Sabbarese on Tools and Farming
Having the right tools in the right condition for our farming job In This Podcast: Gardening can be hard work, but it doesn’t have to be. Chris Sabbarese explains how the right tool not only makes the job easier, but it also makes it safer for you and your plants. He describes the difference between a bypass pruner and an anvil pruner, what to look for when choosing tools, and some easy things you can do to keep your tools in tip top shape. Chris also shares his gift for storytelling, taking this inspiring episode much deeper than the humble gardening tool. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Chris Sabbarese is the marketing, communications and social media director for Corona Tools, a leading global brand and manufacturer of quality garden and landscape tools since 1928. He joined the organization in 2010, and manages the brand experience with end-users across all forms of digital & print media. Chris also serves as the executive director of GardenComm, a non-profit membership organization made up of green industry communications professionals. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Chris Sabbarese on Tools and Farming. urbanfarm.org/CoronaTools
Fri, February 03, 2023
719: Phil Howard on Who Controls What We Eat?
Researching the Changes Occurring in Our Food Systems In This Podcast: The grocery aisle appears to provide a whole buffet of choices, but who are the companies behind those choices? Phil Howard has studied our current food system and discovered that there are a surprisingly small number of companies who are in control. Who are these companies? How much power do they have and what are they doing to keep it? More importantly, what can be done about it? Phil lifts the lid on the industry to reveal the fragility of our modern food system. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Phil Howard is a member of the International Panel of Experts on Sustainable Food Systems and a professor at Michigan State University. He teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in Community, Food and Agriculture, and a graduate course in The Political Ecology of Food. Phil’s research focuses on the “food system” which involves all of the steps required to produce food and get it to our plates–from farming and processing to distribution and consumption. He is the author of Who Controls What We Eat? (2021) published by Bloomsbury Academic. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Phil Howard on Who Controls What We Eat? UrbanFarm.org/PhilHoward
Fri, January 27, 2023
718: Angelo Kelvakis on Indoor Garden Systems
Picking the best indoor garden for your needs In This Podcast: Angelo Kelvakis demystifies the hydroponic garden. The right garden can be a great investment in your health and wellbeing. Angelo helps take the guesswork out of choosing the garden that best fits your lifestyle. He’ll teach you how to ask the right questions, identify the most important components, and research a system before you make a purchase, so you will continue to enjoy your garden and reap many benefits from it for years to come. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Angelo Kelvakis is a graduate of Loyola University Chicago where he studied environmental science and published research on nutrient uptake for plants. During this time, he also managed the Eco-Dome lab where he ran the aquaponics system which supplied fresh produce and fish to the Loyola Farmers Market. After graduating, he worked for several indoor farm companies helping them get start up, and finally was an early employee of Rise Gardens where he works today. At Rise, Angelo is both the Director of Research and Development, and a Horticulturalist where he is in charge of the Rise Lab focusing on nutrient design, plant growth research, and algorithm development. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Angelo Kelvakis on Indoor Garden Systems. urbanfarm.org/RiseGardens
Fri, January 20, 2023
717: Hassena Kassim on Seed Saving
Growing and Saving Seeds In This Podcast: Hassena Kassim returns to talk about the recent growth she is experiencing since moving from Arizona to North Carolina about 5 years ago. She explains how growing and saving seeds for Sow True Seeds led her to the Organic Seed Alliance seed school and what she learned from completing the program. Hassena admits to a newfound appreciation for beans as she shares interesting facts from their long and colorful history. Don’t miss the fantastic seed resources mentioned in this episode! Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Hassena Kassim is a mother and a newish farmer in Hot Springs NC. She works the land with honeybees, chickens, dairy goats, gardens and several composting methods. Hassena is a grower of seeds for Sow True Seed in Asheville, North Carolina and has recently completed the Organic Seed Alliance seed school. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Hassena Kassim on Saving Seeds. urbanfarm.org/hassena
Tue, January 17, 2023
716: The Future of the Urban Farm and 000 Relaunch
Staying Open to Possibilities In This Podcast: In this special episode, Greg Peterson shares an update from his new home in North Carolina. There are lots of exciting possibilities created by starting from scratch in a completely new and different place and Greg is taking the time to explore them all. He also confirms that the Urban Farm programs are not going anywhere, and he replays the very first episode of the Urban Farm Podcast. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! The Future of the Urban Farm and 000 Relaunch.
Fri, January 13, 2023
715: What is Happening in the World of Seeds.
715: What is Happening in the World of Seeds. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the December 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing what is happening in the world of seeds. Bill recently returned from the 9th Session of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture in New Delhi. He shares what he learned about how the world is protecting the genetic resources of smallholder farmers in the global south who contribute so much to the diversity and genetic pool of our precious seeds. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the co-founder of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Seedsave.org , Seed School and the Great American Seed Up . Bill has been teaching seed saving for decades and is dedicated to educating communities about the value of seed saving and local seeds as a foundation for a local food system. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/seeds22dec for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, January 06, 2023
Doreen Pollack on How Permaculture Changed Her Life.
Doreen Pollack on How Permaculture Changed Her Life. Integrating the "P" Word Into Everyday Life Doreen Pollack took a permaculture course nearly 20 years ago and she has never looked back. In this episode she explains how those concepts learned so long ago still influence every part of her life today. She points out the positive impacts, not only on her garden, but on her thoughts, her actions, and especially on her daily interactions with the earth and the community of people around her. Always eager to expand that community, Doreen shares her nuggets of wisdom and gently encourages everyone she meets to experience permaculture for themselves. Doreen Pollack has been a Master Gardener for over 18 years and has turned her urban lot in downtown Phoenix into a living example of what she teaches. Her front yard now houses an edible garden where a bermuda grass lawn used to be. Rainwater harvesting systems channel and store rainwater, compost piles supply needed amendments to harsh clay soil and creative plant locations maximize use of her urban lot. A Laundry to Landscape system uses washing machine output to water a 35-year-old grapefruit tree. Doreen has taught hundreds of people about gardening through Master Gardeners, Mesa Community College, City of Tempe, and Rio Salado College, and has appeared on local news talking about gardening. She loves to help people become better gardeners and stewards of the land. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/01/06/714-doreen-pollack/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, January 03, 2023
Kathy Jentz on National Seed Swap Day.
Kathy Jentz on National Seed Swap Day. Promoting Biodiversity in Our Gardens and Farms. Kathy Jentz started National Seed Swap Day to officially celebrate and encourage something farmers and gardeners have been doing for hundreds of years – trading seeds. She chats with Greg about the origins of the event, what happens at a modern swap, and what the many benefits are for both new and experienced gardeners. (HINT: It’s not just about the seeds!) Kathy provides valuable information for anyone thinking of attending or organizing a seed swap. Kathy Jentz is editor and publisher of the award-winning Washington Gardener Magazine, based in Washington, DC. She is also the editor of three plant society journals: the Water Garden Journal , The Azalean , and Fanfare, and she hosts the popular GardenDC Podcast, which was recently named Best DC Podcast. Kathy is co-author of The Urban Garden: 101 Ways to Grow Food and Beauty in the City and has a new book, Groundcover Revolution coming out soon, which is available for pre-order now on Amazon. Her mission is to turn black thumbs green. A life-long gardener, Kathy believes that growing plants should be stress-free and enjoyable. Her philosophy is inspiration over perspiration. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2023/01/03/713-kathy-jentz/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, December 30, 2022
Kathy Mortensen on Not Just Any Farmers Market.
Kathy Mortensen on Not Just Any Farmers Market. Managing a family-based, full-participation farmers market. We meet Kathy Mortensen who manages a community market from an entirely different state. The health focused market in Naperville, Illinois is growing with big events, strategic booth placement, and fun vendor-involved themes. We find out what she is doing to make it a successful event for the local community. Kathy grew up with nine siblings and had family meals every night. Her mom was very sustainable and on an extremely tight budget, yet only purchased meat from the local butcher; and fresh fruits and vegetables were the norm. Kathy’s husband started running the Naperville Farmers Market when the founder passed it on to him. Kathy took it over when he left his position at work, never expecting it to develop into what it is today. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/12/30/712-kathleen-mortensen/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, December 23, 2022
Grain Culture.
710: Grain Culture. In This Podcast: This is the November 2022 class discussing Grain Culture! Heritage and ancient grains are taking center stage in all kinds of gardening programs and on tables across the country. Find out why these grains are easier on bellies, easy to grow and a lot easier to process than you may think. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Chat. Some links from this class: The Grain Bundle at GASU Breadlab.wsu.edu HeritageGrains.org Drip Tape Class - replay SeedSchoolOnline.com Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/12/16/711-garden-chat/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, December 16, 2022
Holiday Gardening Gifts.
A chat with Greg, Janis, and Doreen. The holidays are just around the corner, and we all love to share gifts from our heart with our friends and family. Join us as we share our ideas for some cool gardening gifts both from and for the garden. This is sure to be an inspiration filled class. Our team members Janis Norton and Doreen Pollack joined Greg in this fabulous brainstorming session. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest (or two) to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Doreen Pollack is a member of the Urban Farm Team. She has been a Master Gardener for over 16 years. She has also turned her own urban plot in a downtown Phoenix Historic District into a living example of what she teaches. Her front yard now houses an edible garden where a lush Bermuda grass lawn used to be. Rainwater harvesting systems channel and store rain, compost piles supply needed amendments to harsh clay soil and creative plant location maximize use of this neighborhood lot. A Laundry-to-Landscape system uses washing machine output to water a 35 year old grapefruit tree. Editor's Notes: Check out our articles on Wicking Beds as this was a question in the chat tonight. www.urbanfarm.org/wickingbeds Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/12/16/711-garden-chat/ for show notes and links
Fri, December 09, 2022
709: Kathryn Wilking on Feng Shui in Our Spaces.
709: Kathryn Wilking on Feng Shui in Our Spaces. Balancing the energies around us to create sanctuaries that we love. Greg chats with Kathryn Wilking to discover how feng shui concepts can be used in our home and gardens to enhance and beautify our spaces. She introduces three core concepts of this practice that she uses to help people and discusses the five earth elements giving us examples on how to bring the energies in for positive results. Finding balance in our spaces is key to boosting our productivity. Since 2012, Kathryn has been working exclusively as a Feng Shui Coach helping homeowners and businesses take charge of their space and learn to thrive, not just survive! Author of Practical Feng Shui For the Office , and host of the podcast “Feng Shui Your Day!” she teaches that Feng Shui is easy and practical while helping us create function & flow, boost productivity, and find the work-life balance. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/12/09/709-kathryn-wilking/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, December 02, 2022
Dr. Joel Fuhrman on Eating for Life
Dr. Joel Fuhrman on Eating for Life. Using Nutrition To Prevent And Reverse Disease In This Podcast: Joel Fuhrman, M.D. is a board-certified family physician, seven-time New York Times bestselling author and nutritional researcher who specializes in preventing and reversing disease through nutritional methods. At his Eat to Live Retreat in San Diego, CA, and through his books, television specials, and virtual speaking engagements, Dr. Fuhrman shares his life-saving nutritional protocols with hundreds of thousands of people around the world seeking to recover from obesity, food addictions, diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, and other serious health concerns. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/12/02/708-joel-fuhrman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, November 25, 2022
Steven Churchill on Worm Composting
Worm Composting Simplifying Vermicomposting And Making It Easy For Anyone To Start A chance encounter at a farmers market led Greg to meet Steve Churchill, the creator of the worm bag he had recently bought. In this interview, Steve explains the reason he designed a new worm composting bag and explains many of the ins and outs of vermicoposting. Steve Churchill is the owner of the Urban Worm Company, a vermicomposting-related blog, online store, and manufacturer of the Urban Worm Bag. Through the Urban Worm blog, social media, and e-mail interactions with his readers, Steve is a joyful promoter of vermicomposting as a means to turn household and commercial waste into a highly valuable soil amendment. Steve is also a retired military veteran and a pilot for Southwest Airlines. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/11/25/707-steve-churchill/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, November 18, 2022
Indoor Gardening Of Salads
A chat with Peter Burke. It makes sense to keep our herb gardens close to our kitchens for easy access, and for some people that means gardening indoors. There are a variety of culinary options to our inside gardens and this month Janis stepped in to chat with Peter Burke to get some useful and inspirational tips for practical gardening indoors - with a focus on growing a fresh salad in only seven days. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Peter has been teaching gardening classes since 2006 when he started presenting workshops on Indoor salad gardening. He also teaches about square foot gardening, extending the gardening season, and more and supports the need for specialized seeds for indoor salad gardening. He is the host of In The Garden on WDVE radio Vermont. He lives with his family in Calais Vermont and is the author of Year-round Indoor Salads . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/11/18/706-garden-chat/ for show notes and links
Fri, November 11, 2022
How Do You Store Your Seeds; October 2022 Seed Chat.
705: How Do You Store Your Seeds. This is the October 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing how to store your seeds. The most asked question we get in all our educational programs is “How do you store your seeds?” Our quick answer is the mantra: keep your seeds cool, dark, and dry. But there are a few other tricks of the trade to make sure that your seeds will germinate year after year and not necessarily what is indicated on your seed packet. We’ll cover that as well so you can understand why seed packets have an expiration date of between 15 to 18 months. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/11/11/705-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, November 04, 2022
Clara Roza on Conquering Australian-sized Farming Challenges
Growing food while overcoming droughts, record rains and floods, and catastrophic fires. Clara is a 31-year-old Amateur Mycologist, mushroom grower, Beekeeper, and Chicken lady who is passionate about animals and the environment. She is Hungarian-Australian and currently living in Australia, where she is President of the local Permaculture Central Coast group. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/11/04/704-clara-roza/ for show notes and links
Fri, October 28, 2022
Justin “Jules” Giuliano on Earth Friendly Potting Soil.
Earth Friendly Potting Soil. Educating about soil and planetary health with peat free planting mix. In This Podcast: Justin “Jules” Giuliano may be a relative newcomer to the garden, but his love of the outdoors and his willingness to make mistakes have grown into a lifelong passion for the soil. Combining that passion with his roots in education, he is a natural advocate for keeping our soils healthy. Jules inspires us to carefully consider what we put into the soil… and what we take out. Even his language is infused with his love of gardening! Justin "Jules" Giuliano is an organic farmer and educator with a background in vermicompost and natural farming. He is the lead soil researcher at Rosy Soil, a potting soil company based in Georgia. Prior to joining Rosy, Jules managed an urban farm in Atlanta, studied regenerative agriculture at the Rodale Institute and won a Cannabis Cup for his organic cannabis cultivation. In addition to Rosy, Jules manages the Tik Tok @SmokeYrGreens with over 250k followers where he educates his community about plant, soil, and planetary health. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/10/28/703-jules-giuliano/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, October 21, 2022
Starting Your Fall Garden; A Garden Chat with Christy Wilhelmi.
A chat with Christy Wilhelmi. Now is the perfect time to get a 'kick in the pants' on starting back into our fall gardening. Christy Wilhelmi, frequent Urban Farm Podcast guest and author of Garden Variety , joins us for this month's Garden Chat to help dig into different aspects about one of the best times to garden. She details her garden planning process and tells us what she likes to plant and how she decides when to plant it. Christy also has plenty of tips for taking full advantage of this prime growing season no matter where you live. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Christy Wilhelmi is the founder of Gardenerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes her newsletters, her popular blog, top-ranked podcasts, and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. Between 70-80 percent of her family's produce comes from her garden of less than 300 square feet. She is author of Gardening for Geeks , 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success , Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden , and just released in February 2022 is her debut novel Garden Variety (William Morrow/Harper Collins). Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/10/21/702-garden-chat/ for show notes
Fri, October 14, 2022
Seed Starting Challenges; A chat with an expert on seeds.
701: Seed Starting Challenges. This is the September 2022 Seed Saving Class with Kari Spencer discussing seed starting. There is nothing more satisfying than getting a jump on the gardening season by starting seeds in flats or in the ground. What do we need to know to be successful? Soil composition, temperature, moisture and light all determine whether we are jumping for joy from our efforts or crying out in despair. How many times have we started seeds only to realize we created a wonderful sprouted bounty for our feathered friends? Get a good start to starting seeds with some simple information and ideas for success. A little attention will go a long way in making sure you lengthen your garden season and end up with healthy vibrant plants you started from seeds! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/10/14/701-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, October 07, 2022
Rebecca Newburn on Creating Local Seed Libraries; Helping People Share Seeds in Their Community.
Helping People Share Seeds In Their Community In This Podcast : Rebecca Newburn’s vision was to start seed libraries, not just locally, but all over the world. To accomplish this goal, she created an easy roadmap for others to follow and then made it easily available to everyone. Learn how important seed libraries are, how you can find one, and how you can make a difference by starting one in your community. Rebecca generously shares her advice and offers us free step by step resources. Rebecca Newburn is the Co-Founder of Richmond Grows Seed Lending Library, a free seed exchange located in the Richmond Public Library in Richmond, California where she lives. The “create a library” template she designed has helped hundreds of seed libraries launch around the world. She is the webmaster for SeedLibraries.net and the editor of Cool Beans! Seed Libraries Newsletter , an international publication supporting local seed projects. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/10/07/700-rebecca-newburn/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our podcast library!
Fri, September 30, 2022
Jeffrey Smith on Protecting the Microbiome; Raising Public Awareness About the Dangers of Gene Editing.
Raising Public Awareness About the Dangers of Gene Editing In This Podcast: Jeffrey Smith returns to the Urban Farm Podcast to talk about what he calls “GMO 2.0”, an easily attainable technology with the power to permanently change the genetic makeup of every living thing on earth. The foods we eat are already being changed and we are already being affected in ways we don’t yet understand, yet there are no controls in place to ensure the changes are safe. Jeffrey illuminates the very real dangers we face and tells us how we can fight back. Jeffrey Smith is a bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker and celebrated public speaker. He has influenced the behavior and health of millions of people worldwide through his books like Seeds of Deception , and Genetic Roulette , and his podcast Live Healthy Be Well. Jeffrey is the founding executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which has started a global education campaign called Protect Nature Now with the documentary titled “Don’t Let the Gene Out of the Bottle”, which won a Telly Award. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/30/699-jeffrey-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Protecting the Microbiome.
Tue, September 27, 2022
Andrew Millison on The Permaculture Water Harvesting Summit.
Creating a Hopeful Future Through How We Manage Our Water In This Podcast: Andrew Millison, an experienced and enthusiastic permaculture teacher, announces his upcoming online Permaculture Water Summit. He spells out the serious problems facing the world today, then shares his passionate belief that quick action by individuals can turn things around faster than any government. In some parts of the world, deserts are already being turned into lush forests! Learn how to attend this free summit and become part of the exciting changes to come. Andrew is an innovative educator, storyteller and designer. He founded the Permaculture Design education program at Oregon State University (OSU) in 2009. Andrew serves as an Education Director and Senior Instructor who offers 25 years of experience and a playful approach to regenerative design. In October 2022 – just a couple weeks after the release of this podcast, Andrew hosted a three-day Permaculture Water Summit; a free global summit created to share viable solutions for the water crises found throughout the planet. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/27/698-andrew-millison/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! The Permaculture Water Summit.
Fri, September 23, 2022
Planting for the Bugs; A Garden Chat with Suzanne Bontempo
A chat with Suzanne Bontempo. In This Garden Chat: Bugs play a vital role in the health of an ecosystem, and with a little strategic planting, we can invite the "good" ones to join us in our own growing spaces. Join us as we talk with Suzanne Bontempo about planning ahead for bugs, how to recognize the difference between pests and beneficial insects, and how to encourage the ones we want for our garden ecosystems. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Suzanne Bontempo works as an environmental educator, teaching the principles of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for sustainable, eco-friendly pest management around the home and garden. Suzanne, owner of Plant Harmony and program manager for Our Water Our World was recognized for excellence in her field winning the 2013 CA IPM Innovators Award. She has worked as a professional gardener for over 25 years. She loves teaching folks how to grow bountiful gardens that are also safe and healthy for you, your family, and the environment. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/23/697-garden-chat/ for the show notes and links.
Fri, September 16, 2022
Warm and Cool Season Crops.
696: Cool Season and Warm Season Crops. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the August 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing cool season and warm season crops. Do we plant cool season crops in the fall and warm season in the spring? How is it that cool season varieties get sweeter as the weather gets colder? Can warm season crops last through blistering heat? Can we strengthen the genetics of any crop through selection and adaptation? Come play with us and find out the answers to these questions and more with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson on Seed Chat. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/16/696-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, September 09, 2022
Joshua Burman Thayer on Food Forests for First TImers
Making Growing Fruit Trees Easy and Affordable for Beginners In This Podcast: Joshua Burman Thayer believes everyone can and should grow food, but with so much to learn, it is easy for a beginner to get overwhelmed. Where do you start? What do you really need? Where should you spend your time and money to get the best harvest? Joshua has used his experience with his clients to write the book he couldn’t find… a book especially for beginners. He shares some tips from the book and gives us a preview of his next book. Joshua Burman Thayer has always had his hands in the earth as he has traveled extensively working with communities around plants and food. He started out as a W.W.O.O.F. volunteer on organic farms throughout Latin America, worked as a laborer on organic C.S.A. farms back home in California, apprenticed and worked in ecological landscape design, and did native plant field research with renowned mentors. With all that experience Joshua has become a lead designer and advocate for uniting ecology with aesthetic, creating beautiful, productive natural systems that work with nature to foster bounty. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/09/695-joshua-thayer/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Food Forests for First Timers.
Fri, September 02, 2022
Lizzy Shapiro on Discovering Music in A Container Garden.
Making a Connection Between Jazz and Gardening In This Podcast: Like many people during the pandemic, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Shapiro suddenly found herself at home staring at an empty calendar. To fill the time, she turned her attention to decorating the unattractive cement spaces outside her home. One potted plant led to another and another, and they grew into a gardening obsession which, at first, seemed so different from her jazz roots. But the deeper she dug into gardening, the more she discovered that nature held lessons that transposed beautifully into music. Lizzy's garden changed not just the view outside her home, but also her view of the world. Elizabeth "Lizzy" Shapiro is a screenwriter, actress and musician. As a screenwriter, she has created TV shows alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Ben Stiller and Joey Soloway, as well as creating and starring in "The Crossroads of History" which received 2 Emmy nominations. As a musician, she trained as an opera singer and is currently the front woman of Lizzy & the Triggermen. Dubbed "10-piece jazz sensations" by LA Weekly, the band's debut album, "Good Songs for Bad Times," hit #3 on iTunes Jazz Charts (just behind Miles Davis). Their music simultaneously transports you to a prohibition speakeasy while feeling arrestingly modern, thanks to the powerhouse vocals and songwriting of Lizzy. Their eerily prophetic original song, "Dance Song (for the End of the World)" garnered international press for its music video which featured dancers all over the world at the beginning of lock down. The band has been forging exciting new paths for modern big band and swing music: headlining some of the top music venues in the country, opening for the UK rock band Squeeze, and being selected as Official Artists of SXSW. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/09/02/694-lizzy-shapiro/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Discovering Music in a Container Garden.
Fri, August 26, 2022
Paul Horner on Vermicomposting
Worms Are People Too In This Podcast: When his previous industry ground to a sudden halt, Paul Horner decided to farm worms, and this unusual decision turned his life in a completely unexpected direction. His enthusiastic appreciation for the humble worm has fueled a passion for educating others about the value of these tiny creatures, creatures that can magically turn food waste into one of the best plant foods on the planet. Paul openly shares his story, encouraging us to have positive feelings not just about worms, but also about ourselves. Paul Horner is a worm farmer, published children’s book author, and Co-Founder of Our Silent Partners - a grass roots effort focusing on transforming waste diversion into chemical-free soil amendments. An organic gardener and avid composter for over 20 years, Paul has only recently been awakened to what he calls “the true magic that is vermicomposting”. His first book, an illustrated children’s book titled “ Worms Are People, Too ”, was published in April 2022. He is a member of the U.S. Composting Council, the North Carolina Composting Council, and the Carolina Farm Stewards Association. Paul currently resides in Harrisburg, NC with his wife and three children. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/08/26/693-paul-horner/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Paul Horner on Vermicomposting.
Fri, August 19, 2022
Fertilizing Through Irrigation
A chat with Scott Murray. In This Garden Chat: Watering your gardens is a step that we all need to do. Fertilizing is just as important, although sometimes not as easy to remember. Both of these chores can be done in a variety of ways and too many choices might prevent us from starting. Join us as we chat with our friend and mentor Scott Murray about combining those two processes into one easy step to minimize our energy output and boost our harvest and garden health. Fertlizing with your irrigation is the solution to many gardening and orcharding questions. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Scott Murray has 48 years of organic agriculture production experience in the United States & Mexico. He has served in a wide variety of roles within conservation, food production, and environmental leadership, including as an elected California conservation official for the last 27 years. Scott also specializes in farmland preservation projects utilizing smart growth principles. These days his primary work is on farm creation and consulting, including his work on a farm growing coffee in southern CA which had its first harvest and sold out in one day...at an unbelievable $796 a pound. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/08/19/692-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, August 12, 2022
Seed Harvesting.
691: Seed Harvesting. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the July 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed harvesting. Before you know it, all your crops will be going to seed. Rather than deadhead and “clean everything up,” learn how to be your own best seed detective. What are the characteristics of the plants from which you should be saving seed? How do you decide when and how to harvest your seeds? What are some simple strategies that can be applied to most plants when saving for seed? What are the benefits from saving your own, locally cultivated and adapted seed? Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/08/12/691-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, August 05, 2022
Jolene Kuty on Creating a 10-Year Vision.
Setting an urban farming goal and then making it a reality. In This Podcast: When Dr. Jolene Kuty and her husband were ready to start planting on their bare new property, they spent a lot of time planning what they wanted to do in the space and how they wanted it to look in 10 years. They wisely took even more time to plan the space accordingly. Now, 10 years later, hear how they are enjoying the fruits of their labor, both literally and figuratively, and proving that the best time to plant a tree really is 10 years ago! Chiropractic physician and health educator, Dr. Jolene Kuty, built an idyllic sustainable urban farm as a role model for her patients and her family. Her home and on-site chiropractic office is surrounded by 800 square feet of raised organic vegetable gardens and over 20 trees from the Urban Farm fruit tree program. They live, work, and play on a half-acre in the city where their five children swing beside seedlings and are surrounded by fresh growing fruit. They eat farm-to-table, sharing recipes and inspiration with all who visit. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/08/05/690-jolene-kuty/ for show notes and links. Creating a 10-Year Vision.
Fri, July 29, 2022
Scott Murray on Being a Farmer; An Ask a Farmer Session with One of Greg’s Mentors.
An Ask a Farmer Session with One of Greg's Mentors. In This Podcast: Scott Murray shares his four-step plan for starting a farm. If you have gardened, you have likely learned how to grow a thing or two, and maybe you are considering stepping it up and becoming a farmer. Do you know how to start a farm? What does it take to go from gardener to farmer? What questions should you ask before you start and where do you find the answers? Start right here with the answers and inspiration you’ll find in this session! Gardening advice and inspiration from a mentor. Even those of us who have been farming for decades can gain insight and inspiration when we have a more experienced farmer as a mentor. For Greg, one of those people is his good friend, Scott Murray. One of the best things about Scott is that he is so willing to help others learn how to grow food successfully. Every now and then we'll have a live Ask a Farmer webinar where the audience can submit questions for Scott to answer. This podcast episode is a recording of one of those sessions with information so good, we couldn't help but share! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/07/29/689-scott-murray/ for show notes and links. Scott Murray on Being a Farmer.
Fri, July 22, 2022
Free Water for the Garden; A Garden Chat with Don Titmus.
A chat with Don Titmus. In This Garden Chat: The biggest and most basic concern when maintaining a garden is water. In these uncertain times of drought and rising costs, how can you ensure your garden will not wilt just when you need it most? Don Titmus shares his secrets for finding free water right where you are, no matter where you live. Using his expert tips, your garden will be stay green and healthy, and you will be a better steward of our most precious resource. Best of all, watering your garden will be easier than ever! The Water Harvesting Summit mentioned in this episode was amazing! Click HERE for the replays...and a lot more! On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Don Titmus grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then started his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. He co-founded the Phoenix Permaculture Guild, started a Permaculture design company, redesigned his home site into a permaculture design destination, and helped develop a thriving permaculture community in the Phoenix, Arizona area. He has presented in 5 cities, worked in several states, attended classes in 5 states, and pretty much lives and breathes permaculture. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/07/22/688-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, July 15, 2022
Squashes, Summer & Winter.
687: Squashes, Summer & Winter. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the June 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing squashes. Help! How can we tell the difference between summer and winter squashes and why is it important? What are the challenges with cross-pollination and why don’t the three different species of squash cross? And what are they? What are the pitfalls of planting and planning for harvest? So many questions and so many answers can be found on Seed Chat with Greg and Bill. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman was Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/07/15/687-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, July 08, 2022
Chris Hall and Stef Lowi on Lovin Off The Land; Spending a year eating only what they could catch, grow, harvest, or raise
Spending a year eating only what they could catch, grow, harvest, or raise. In This Podcast: Have you ever wondered what would it be like to eat for an entire year without stepping foot in a grocery store? Sure, our ancestors did it, but can we? Chris Hall and Stef Lowi decided to take advantage of the sudden changes in their lives and find out. They had almost no experience, simply learning how as they went along, but they progressed from surviving to thriving. By the end of the year, Chris and Stef found that their relationships with food, themselves and each other had changed in some unexpected ways. When the pandemic first hit, Chris Hall and Stef Lowi found themselves without jobs, living on a small island, while grocery stores were running out of items, and supply chains were breaking down. They asked themselves “What would happen if things got worse? Could we survive without grocery stores?” They decided to take a 365 Day Challenge and find out. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/07/08/686-chris-hall/ for show notes and links. Lovin Off the Land.
Fri, July 01, 2022
Bevin Cohen on Seed & Nut Oils.
Extracting Great Resources from Our Seeds In This Podcast: You plant seeds, save seeds, share seeds, and even eat seeds, but still there is more you can do with those seeds! In this podcast, Bevin Cohen explains how to press seeds and nuts to make your own oils. Are you considering the next step on your journey towards self-sufficiency or looking for healthy oils to use in your kitchen? Maybe you just need a new way to use some of those seeds you have saved? Bevin provides the information and inspiration you need to get started. It’s easier than you think! Bevin Cohen is an author, herbalist, seed saver and owner of Small House Farm in Michigan. He offers workshops and lectures across the country on the benefits of living closer to the land through seeds, herbs, and locally grown food. Bevin is a freelance writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications including Mother Earth News, Hobby Farms Magazine, and The Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company catalog. He is the author of four books, including Saving Our Seeds , The Artisan Herbalist and his highly anticipated new book, The Complete Guide to Seed & Nut Oils . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/07/01/685-bevin-cohen/ for show notes and links. Bevin Cohen on Seed & Nut Oils.
Fri, June 24, 2022
Foliar Feeding in the Garden; A Garden Chat with Anthony Dominguez.
A chat with Anthony Dominguez. In This Garden Chat: We are talking with gardener and chemist Anthony Dominguez from HyKreations about foliar feeding our gardens. Besides providing the respiration for our plants, the foliage can be a direct method for getting nutrients into the plant. A virtually immediate foliar feeding of nutrients can give your gardens the boost they need to improve vitality and growth. Yet with limitations of temperatures and avoiding flowers, the biggest gardening question we get asked is how and when do you fertilize vegetable gardens? On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Robert "Anthony" Dominguez is the Co-Founder and C.O.O. of HyKreations. He is an Arizona native and holds a B.S. in Microbiology from the University of Arizona. He has always been interested in how and why, especially when in comes to microbes! As a microbiologist, Anthony plans to design and develop microbial products that will become the new standard. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/06/24/684-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, June 17, 2022
Pollinators & Wildflowers
683: Pollinators & Wildflowers. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the May 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing planting wildflowers. A diverse and integrated garden requires many different elements. Top on that list are pollinators and wildflowers. If you have a robust flower component to your cultivated gardens, so much of the extra workload is handled by these workhorses as they attract beneficial bugs and increase harvests. Learn how to plant wildflowers and how they impact the beauty and functionality of your garden or farm and create healthy eco-systems that are balanced and regenerative. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/06/17/683-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, June 10, 2022
Christine Lance on Planning, Building and Maintaining a Community Garden
Doing the hard work of setting up a strong community In This Podcast: Turn your vision for a successful community garden into a reality using the ten-step plan laid out by Christine Lance in this episode. It is no surprise that gardening skills are a plus, but what about planning, land, and funding? How do you develop collaborations, build relationships, and get the support that will be required to keep the project going and growing? Listen as Christine provides the answers to set any community garden on the path to success. Christine Lance started gardening in her 20’s and her knowledge went deeper after completing the Master Gardener class at Colorado State University (CSU). To help complete volunteer time required at CSU, she helped to build the first community garden in Ridgway, CO and then expand it from 7 members to the 137 that are served today. 2022 will be Christine’s 13th year with the Ridgway Community Garden (RCG). Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/06/10/682-christine-lance/ for show notes and links. Planning, Building, and Maintaining a Community Garden.
Fri, June 03, 2022
David Fisher on Growing it Yourself
Home gardens are more efficient and effective than the industrial food system In This Podcast: David Fisher talks about what he has learned during the recent lockdowns about the productivity of home gardens versus the industrial food system. He studied in depth about the differences between two distinct sources of our food, as well as some of the external costs of the industrial food system. David is primarily a botanist. He received a B.S. in Biology from North Carolina State University, and an M.S. and Ph.D. in Botany from the University of Wisconsin. He then served as a research scientist at the USDA Forest Experiment Station in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and was a Humboldt fellow at the University of Gurtingen, Germany. Prior to joining the faculty of Maharishi International University (MIU), he was a professor and researcher at the University of Hawaii. Since leaving MIU, he now devotes his time to sustainability research and writing. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/06/03/681-david-fisher/ for show notes and links. David Fisher on Growing it Yourself.
Mon, May 23, 2022
Megan Baxter on Finding Where You Belong
Greg interviews Megan Baxter about her new book. Join us as we meet this delightful guest and learn about her journey to write a memoir about growing up on a farm. Megan has won numerous national awards, including a Pushcart Prize. Her work has been listed in The Best American Essays of 2019. She serves as a mentor to young writers and loves developing cross-genre and innovative creative writing pedagogy for her workshops and classes. She lives in New Hampshire where she loves walking her dogs, running and cooking with local foods from her permaculture homestead. She teaches writing at Colby-Sawyer College and Southern New Hampshire University, and is starting her own small farm where she will put to use more than 20 years of organic farming experience. Megan is the author of Farm Girl: A Memoir published by Green Writers Press Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/05/27/680-megan-baxter/ for show notes and links. Finding Where You Belong.
Fri, May 20, 2022
Soil Review - What does a Garden Need; A Garden Chat with Michael Moore.
A chat with Michael Moore. In This Garden Chat: Instead of starting a new crop in your gardens with tired old soil, consider boosting the potential yield and health of the crops by rejuvenating the soil each season. In this Garden Chat we talk with permaculture gardener and practitioner Michael Victoria Moore about how to boost the health of the ecosystem housing the roots of your plant babies. Michael, Greg and co-host Janis Norton also answer some soil questions sent in during the live chat. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Michael Victoria Moore is a Permaculture Consultant and Practitioner living in Alberta. After watching Geoff Lawton videos on YouTube, she attended workshops, lectures, and films, read all that she could on the internet, and started picking up books on anything permaculture. The more she read, the more she realized that this was her course in life. Michael signed up to take her Permaculture Design Certification Course and what a game changer that was! Since then, the momentum has never stopped. She attended the International Permaculture Conference and Convergence in Amman Jordan, with over two hundred delegates from around the world, including the co-founder of Permaculture himself, Bill Mollison. Then she studied with Doug Weatherby, the Soil Doctor with the renowned organization, The Soil Foodweb. Michael’s company, Genesis Permaculture, Regenerative Landscape and Design has been in practice for the past 11 years. As a Practitioner and Designer of regenerative systems, Michael and her company help people grow their own food and create self-sustaining landscapes that are vibrant and full of life. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/05/20/679-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, May 13, 2022
Seed Saving Myths.
678: Seed Saving Myths. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the April 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed saving myths. A myth is an idea or story that is believed by many people but that is not true, according to Webster’s Dictionary. Seed saving myths are plentiful and often are motivated by large corporations to increase seed sales and profits. You can’t save seeds to hybrids. You need lots of chemical inputs to grow successful seed crops. Seed saving is hard and should not be attempted by amateurs. You need a lot of space to save seeds. In this Seed Chat, Bill and guest host Janis Norton debunk these myths and others. They will help you understand the origins of these stories and how they have become part of our general narrative. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/05/13/678-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, May 06, 2022
Lisa Steele on Cooking with Eggs; Knowing a Thing or Two Dozen About Raising Hens and Collecting Eggs.
Knowing a Thing or Two Dozen About Raising Hens and Collecting Eggs In This Podcast: Eggs are an important and readily available food source, and they are so very versatile. Rediscover the humble egg with returning guest, Lisa Steele as she talks about her newest book, The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook . She also tells us a bit about the process of writing the book, as well as what she feels has contributed to her success as a blogger, and her expansion into television. Even if you don’t have chickens, you will love the tips Lisa shares in this episode! Lisa Steele is a fifth-generation chicken keeper and founder of the popular blog, Fresh Eggs Daily. Referred to as Queen of the Coop, Lisa traded in her life on Wall Street for life on a farm in rural Maine, where she has kept chickens for more than a dozen years. Having written a number of books on raising and caring for chickens, Lisa is a trusted source for all things chicken and egg. Her latest book is “ The Fresh Eggs Daily Cookbook: Over 100 Fabulous Recipes to Use Eggs in Unexpected Ways ” published by Harper Horizon and just released in February 2022. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/05/06/677-lisa-steele/ for show notes and links. Lisa Steele on Cooking with Eggs.
Fri, April 29, 2022
Journaling and Learning, Growing from the Past; A Garden Chat with Kari Spencer.
A chat with Kari Spencer. In This Garden Chat: Did you know that keeping a garden journal can help you to grow bigger and better vegetables? Kari Spencer, author of City Farming and Vegetable Gardening Journal & Logbook, will discuss the kinds of records that are important to keep, how to plan, and what to log anecdotally in a garden journal. She will share her personal record-keeping style, as well as tips about various journaling methods and technologies. Discover how planning and journaling can make you a better gardener with less stress over time. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Kari Spencer is a popular local gardening & homesteading speaker. As a Master Gardener and a Master Farmer, she enjoys sharing her passion for growing and raising food with others. In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is the creator of Urban Farm U’s Growing Food the Basics & Backyard Livestock courses. She and her family operate The Micro Farm Project, a small farm in North Phoenix, where gardens and livestock animals provide her family with fun and food. Kari is the author of Vegetable Gardening Journal: A weekly tracker and logbook. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/29/676-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, April 22, 2022
Seed Dehybridizing.
675: Seed Dehybridizing. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the March 2022 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing seed dehybridizing. We love hybrid vigor and what hybridized seed can offer. The only downside to using hybridized seed is you can’t save it. Wait a minute. What if you found out that isn’t true? That you could capture the best traits hybrid seed offers and develop seed that would reproduce like its parents, in other words, true to type? Learn the tricks of the trade to dehybridize your favorite hybrid plants and have lasting seed stock you can save! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/22/675-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 15, 2022
Geodesic Greenhouses of Growing Spaces; Bringing a 365-Days-a-Year Local Food Solution to Everyone.
Bringing a 365-Days-a-Year Local Food Solution to Everyone. In This Podcast: In the last of five special daily episodes, we hear from Liz and Lem Tingley, whose passion for health and sustainability led them to Growing Spaces. They fill us in on how they came to be the new owners of the business, the amazing impact their geodesic Growing Domes are having on the communities where they are installed, and the sense of personal fulfillment they have experienced in running the business. Their excitement is contagious as they also describe their hopes and plans for the future of the Growing Domes and Growing Spaces. Lem Tingley graduated from Colorado University Boulder in Mechanical Engineering and has been working for Colorado based manufacturing companies for the last 25 years focusing on his core values which revolve around efficiency, superior quality, exemplary customer experience, and conscious business practices. Liz Tingley graduated from Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and worked in the healthcare industry for over 27 years. She joined the Growing Spaces team full time in January of 2021 taking on Marketing, Sales, and Human Resources responsibilities. In April 2018 they acquired Growing Spaces, a Colorado-based manufacturing company making innovative and environmentally friendly products. They were excited to promote sustainable and healthy lifestyles through the manufacturing and installation of the Growing Dome greenhouses which can thrive in any part of the world so that anyone can grow their own local food 365 days a year. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/15/674-liz-and-lem/ for show notes and links. Geodesic Greenhouses of Growing Spaces.
Thu, April 14, 2022
Wallace Kirby and Boe Luther on Hustlaz 2 Harvesters; A Couple of Friends Who Are Transforming Their Disadvantaged Community.
A Couple of Friends Who Are Transforming Their Disadvantaged Community. In This Podcast: In the fourth of five special daily episodes, we hear from Wallace Kirby and Boe Luther who have made it their mission to transform life and land. Their non-profit community garden in Washington D.C. was awarded a Growing Spaces growing dome which they plan to use as both an educational classroom and a way to increase the amount of food they can give back to the community. You will be inspired by their transformational stories, especially their own. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/blog/podcast Wallace Kirby is a product of public housing in Washington DC and claims to be a survivor, thriver and transformer of disadvantaged communities. He is the senior co-founder of the Hustlaz 2 Harvesters Applied Research Garden. Boe Luther is the other co-founder of the Hustlaz 2 Harvesters. He was born and raised in Washington DC and is a returning citizen who is focusing on transforming lands and lives for the disadvantaged. Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/Podcast-by-episode-titles for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Wallace Kirby and Boe Luther on Hustlaz 2 Harvesters.
Wed, April 13, 2022
Andrew Trujillo on Hobby Gardening in a Greenhouse; Sharing the Passion of Gardening into the Community Starting at Home.
Sharing the Passion of Gardening into the Community Starting at Home. In This Podcast: In the third of five special daily episodes, we hear from Andrew Trujillo whose seeds of inspiration were planted in him as a child. When those seeds began to sprout as an adult, he watered and nourished them by connecting with and learning from lots of other gardeners. Andrew now uses his Growing Spaces growing dome to pass those seeds of gardening inspiration on to others in his community by building more gardens and providing fresh vegetables to neighbors in need. Andrew Trujillo is a husband, daddy, veteran, friend, and neighbor with a deep-rooted desire to grow, who thrives when working in the soil. He has helped build gardens at all the schools in Bayfield, Colorado as well as the local food bank and his local church. Andrew uses a lot of permaculture techniques as well as hugelkultur in his garden designs. His own personal garden has an 18-foot Growing Dome, where he shares about the benefits of this earth-friendly greenhouse. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/13/672-andrew-trujillo/ for show notes and links. Andrew Trujillo on Hobby Gardening in a Greenhouse.
Tue, April 12, 2022
Eric Andrews on Peace Tree Parks and Community; Engineering a Growing Community.
Engineering a Growing Community. In This Podcast: In the second of five daily special episodes, we hear from Eric Andrews, who is using a forty-two-foot Growing Spaces growing dome to educate and inspire the members of his Detroit community. Eric’s excitement is contagious as he shares the incredible story behind the nonprofit he cofounded and tells us how the dome will contribute to its mission in a new way. He describes the buzz created in the community as the dome was being built and talks about the challenges encountered along the way, both frustrating and amusing. Eric Andrews was born and raised in Detroit, MI. He is the current Executive Director and co-founder of Peace Tree Parks a 501(c)3 Nonprofit Organization. Eric is a Ferris State University Alumnus that majored in Mechanical Engineering Technology. He is currently employed as a Sr. Product Engineer at American Axle Manufacturing, and he is a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. Peace Tree Parks was founded in 2015 with the mission to increase the access that Metro Detroit residents have to fresh organic produce by converting vacant land into community gardens. They reach their community through a residential and community garden program. These programs work together and are designed to reach those in need regardless of race, age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/12/671-eric-andrews/ for show notes and links. Eric Andrews on Peace Tree Parks and Community.
Mon, April 11, 2022
Puja and Udgar Parsons on Growing a Green Business; Creating a sustainable greenhouse business in the 90’s.
Creating a sustainable greenhouse business in the 90’s. In This Podcast: In the first of five special daily episodes, we hear from Puja and Udgar Parsons, the founders of Growing Spaces. They give us a peek inside their geodesic dome greenhouse kits, detailing how they work and describing the features that improve upon a traditional greenhouse. Udgar explains how the dome’s shape is an extension of his permaculture principles and love of nature, and Puja inspires us with stories of their determination to share the joy of healthy, garden-fresh vegetables year-round with as many people as possible, despite the growing pains they experienced as entrepreneurs. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/11/670-puja-and-udgar/ for show notes and links. Growing a Green Business.
Fri, April 08, 2022
Christy Wilhelmi on Garden Variety – a Novel; There’s More to Gardening Than Merely Keeping Pests at Bay.
There’s More to Gardening Than Merely Keeping Pests at Bay. In This Podcast: Christy Wilhelmi returns to tell us about her latest book, Garden Variety , a novel set in a community garden. She explains why she wrote the book and shares a little bit about the process, then she introduces us to the characters and even narrates a page or two. As expected, Christy weaves some amazing gardening tips into her novel and our podcast. Don’t miss her announcement about a new gardening course and her plans for future novels! Christy Wilhelmi is the founder of Gardenerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes her newsletters, her popular blog, top-ranked podcasts, and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. Between 70-80 percent of her family's produce comes from her garden of less than 300 square feet. She is author of Gardening for Geeks , 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success , Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden , and just released in February 2022 is her debut novel Garden Variety (William Morrow/Harper Collins). Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/08/669-christy-wilhelmi/ for show notes and links. Christy Wilhelmi on Garden Variety – a Novel.
Fri, April 01, 2022
Rebecca Ruda on Mental Health and Urban Farming; Understanding the Importance of Keeping Grounded While Trying to Make a Difference.
Understanding the Importance of Keeping Grounded While Trying to Make a Difference In This Podcast: We talk a lot about agricultural practices, climate change, and the global food supply, and the news is not always great. Rebecca Ruda reflects on the anxiety this can cause and reminds us that just as the problems of the world deserve our attention, so does our mental health. She provides tips for recognizing anxiety symptoms and openly shares her own experience. Then Rebecca offers simple but useful strategies for continuing the work of advocating for nature without doing harm to ourselves. Rebecca Ruda is a wife, mother, mental health therapist and urban farmer. When not endlessly pulling bindweed from her strawberry patch, she enjoys hiking in the nearby mountains with her family. She is currently at work on her first novel. As an Urban Farm podcast listener, we have invited her to share her story. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/04/01/668-rebecca-ruda/ for show notes and links. Mental Health and Urban Farming.
Fri, March 25, 2022
Joshua Prieto on Empowering Regenerative Businesses; Highlighting Entrepreneurs with Strong Moral Standings and an Understanding of Regenerative Practices.
Highlighting Entrepreneurs with Strong Moral Standings and an Understanding of Regenerative Practices. In This Podcast: When we think of permaculture, we immediately think of farms, gardens and homesteads, but Joshua Prieto broadens our perspective. These principles are so universal, they can (and should!) be applied to more than just our gardens. Joshua explains his unique programs that teach entrepreneurs how to grow regenerative businesses from the ground up, rather than creating businesses that simply apply regenerative practices. Joshua Prieto is the Co-Founder and Director of the Seeds of Tao learning platform for regenerative entrepreneurs. He has over 10 years of experience creating, building, and operating startup solutions alongside entrepreneurs of all shapes and sizes. That experience has shown him that entrepreneurs have the biggest role to play in the Anthropocene as we either create the solutions for, or become the root problem of, our people, planet, and future. Josh now co-creates educational programs that disrupt the current way our entrepreneurs learn. His holistically designed educational programs empower entrepreneurs to stop chasing “silver-bullet” solutions and start designing solutions that use regenerative systems. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/25/666-joshua-prieto/ for show notes and links. Empowering Regenerative Businesses.
Tue, March 22, 2022
Urban Farm Series: The Present
In Part 2 of this special 3 part series, Greg Peterson reflects on the upcoming move from the Urban Farm in Arizona, to a new, yet to be named farm in North Carolina. He talks about the factors leading up to the move and the criteria for choosing the new location. "Well, the news is out and there are big changes in my life. Heidi and I are moving, and this is not a little move. We are transporting ourselves 1900 miles to our dream home in Asheville, North Carolina. Lots more to come about our landing place in the ‘future’ part of my writing. I want to assure you, however, with our team in place (Janis, Tayler, Theresa, Ray, Renee, Bill, Belle and Kari) all of our programs will continue into the future just like they have for over 20 years. And for those of you that expect to see me on the ground in Phoenix – you still will for the Fruit Tree Program events and the Seed Up. To begin my journey I thought I would review the Past of the Urban Farm, visit the Present and the biggest question I get…why are you moving?, and speculate on the Future of our new space. Here is a little teaser, we are moving mid-April 2022 to a quaint little town 10 miles from downtown Asheville, North Carolina. We found our ‘dream farm to be’ on 4 acres that is exploding with possibilities, way too many for me to choose right now." For more information visit www.UrbanFarm.org/patron Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/22/urbanfarmpresent/ for show notes and links.
Fri, March 18, 2022
Growing Flowers to Love Your Veggies; A Garden Chat with Lisa Ziegler.
A chat with Lisa Ziegler. In This Garden Chat: Every vegetable garden can benefit from having beautiful flowers in and around the area. Beautiful blooms can boost the aesthetics and add a wide pallet of colors. Some flowers can repel unwanted pests, and some flowers can bring in healthy pollinators. Some flowers are even edible. Let's get in the know with Lisa Ziegler of "Vegetables Love Flowers". On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Lisa Ziegler is a cut-flower farmer, author, and online teacher on organic cut-flower gardening. She has been farming since 1998 in Southeastern Virginia on the Ziegler family homestead. In season this urban three-acre farm produces thousands of stems of flowers and an abundance of vegetables weekly. Lisa has sold her flowers to florists and supermarkets, and at farmer’s markets and her members-only farm market. She loves sharing the experiences she gathers from day-to-day life on the farm. In recent years Lisa’s business, TheGardenersWorkshop.com has grown into an online garden shop and Learning Center that includes resources and online courses for gardeners and farmers. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/18/664-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Tue, March 15, 2022
Urban Farm Series: The Past
In Part 1 of this special 3 part series about the Past, Present and Future of the Urban Farm, Greg Peterson reviews the history of the Urban Farm and gives a sneak peek into the future. "Well, the news is out and there are big changes in my life. Heidi and I are moving, and this is not a little move. We are transporting ourselves 1900 miles to our dream home in Asheville, North Carolina. Lots more to come about our landing place in the ‘future’ part of my writing. I want to assure you, however, with our team in place (Janis, Tayler, Theresa, Ray, Renee, Bill, Belle and Kari) all of our programs will continue into the future just like they have for over 20 years. And for those of you that expect to see me on the ground in Phoenix – you still will for the Fruit Tree Program events and the Seed Up. To begin my journey I thought I would review the Past of the Urban Farm, visit the Present and the biggest question I get…why are you moving?, and speculate on the Future of our new space. Here is a little teaser, we are moving mid-April 2022 to a quaint little town 10 miles from downtown Asheville, North Carolina. We found our ‘dream farm to be’ on 4 acres that is exploding with possibilities, way too many for me to choose right now." Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/15/urbanfarmpast/ for show notes and links.
Fri, March 11, 2022
Starting Your Seeds Indoors in Trays.
662: Starting Your Seeds Indoors in Trays. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the February 2022 Seed Saving Class with special guest Kari Spencer discussing starting your seeds indoors. Kari shares insights on how to get a head start on your spring gardens by starting your seeds indoors in trays. We will talk about germination temps, timing, and nutrition as well as how to avoid common problems. Then we discuss how to transplant your seed starts into your garden successfully. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Kari Spencer is the founder of the Microfarm Project in Phoenix, Arizona and the author of two books, Vegetable Gardening Journal; A Weekly Tracker and Logbook , and City Farming . In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is the creator of Urban Farm U’s Growing Food the Basics & Backyard Livestock courses. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/11/662-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, March 04, 2022
Abby Schaefer on Woodchip Bioreactors; Reducing Agricultural Nitrogen Runoff Into Rivers and Oceans.
Reducing Agricultural Nitrogen Runoff into Rivers and Oceans In This Podcast: Abby Schaefer didn’t know what she wanted to do when she started college, but she went with the flow and turned her love of chemistry into a career studying water as a bio-systems engineer. Abby studies woodchip bioreactors, a relatively new technology which harnesses the power of microbes to remove excess nitrogen from agricultural waste water. She explains what they are and how they work to prevent dangerous dead zones downstream. Abby Schaefer is a research scientist and engineer in Michelle Soupir’s Water Quality Research Lab in the Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering department at Iowa State University. Abby solves water quantity and quality problems, and loves microbes, data analysis, and programming. She is the 2020 American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers Pre-Professional Engineer of the Year, and her research was recently published in Agrosystems, Geosciences, & Environment . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/03/04/661-abby-shaefer/ for show notes and links. Woodchip Bioreactors.
Fri, February 25, 2022
Harvesting the Future from Your Garden; A Garden Chat with Bill McDorman.
A chat with Bill McDorman. In This Garden Chat: Your tastiest vegetables can be grown again and again from your own garden! Future harvests are just a few steps away from what you are growing now and Bill McDorman can help you see the path to the future you want. Explore the benefits of seed saving, learn how to take those first steps, and keep your journey on course with a free class recommendation. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Bill McDorman got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He authored the book Basic Seed Saving in 1994, and in 2010 he and his wife, Belle Starr, created Seed School, a nationally recognized week long training. Bill is a passionate and knowledgeable presenter who inspires his audience to learn to save their own seeds and so much more! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/02/25/660-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, February 18, 2022
Companion Planting
Companion Planting. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the December 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman and special guest Kari Spencer discussing companion planting. Why work so hard in your garden? Gardening should be fun, relaxing and stress free. Unfortunately many of us don’t subscribe to that philosophy. We worry, we fret and we fear we aren’t doing it right. Companion planting is a way to capture nature’s brilliance to help you “get it right.” There are plants that naturally love being partnered with each other in the garden. They provide many benefits such as shade for a heat sensitive specimen or maybe are themselves a kind of bug repellent for another plant. Often food from plants that taste good together have a symbiotic relationship in the garden. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/02/18/659-seed-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, February 11, 2022
Mike Biltonen on Regenerative Orcharding with Climate Change; Growing Fruit Trees While Adapting to Changing Climates.
Growing Fruit Trees WhileAdapting to Changing Climates. In This Podcast: Mike Biltonen explains how he applies pre-industrial farming principles to help food farmers plan for the unpredictable weather that affects their crops. He remains a positive voice in the often negative conversation surrounding climate change, and advocates for quality of nutrition over quantity of production, focusing on the soil to accomplish that goal. Don’t miss Mike’s tip for an easy soil test you can do right now! Mike Biltonen has spent nearly 40 years in agriculture –working mostly with orchards, vineyards, and specialty veg and fruit crops. An early passion for sustainable agriculture evolved into a profound dedication to the principles and practices of ecologically focused, biodynamically-driven farming. For the last fifteen years Mike has worked as a consultant to novice and seasoned farmers and orchardists on all aspects of managing regenerative and integrated farmscapes. Mike conducts workshops, seminars, and webinars, and has a free newsletter for the truly dedicated. He co-owns Know Your Roots, a novel and innovative family-owned company, with his wife Debbie, where they are synchronously using farming and herbalism practices to heal the Earth. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/02/11/658-mike-biltonen/ for show notes and links. Regenerative Orcharding with Climate Change.
Fri, February 04, 2022
Vicki Hird on Rebugging the Planet.
Renewing Our Relationships with Bugs. In This Podcast: Wait…Don’t step on that bug! Vicki Hird introduces us to the fascinating world of bugs, showing us a whole new way to think about our insect and invertebrate friends. She invites us to look a little closer so we can begin to appreciate bugs not only for the many essential services they perform, but also for the amazing diversity they represent. Vicki describes the many dangers they face, then talks about what we can do to protect them from harm and even encourage them to thrive and flourish. Vicki Hird is the Head of the Sustainable Farming Campaign for Sustain: The Alliance for Better Food and Farming (over 100 non-profit organizations), and she runs an independent consultancy. She has a Masters in Pest Management and is a Fellow of the Royal Entomological Society (FRES). As an experienced and award-winning environmental campaigner, researcher, writer, and strategist working mainly in the food, farming and environmental policy arena, Vicki has worked on government policy for many years. Vicki is the author of Perfectly Safe to Eat? The facts on food , and her latest book is titled Rebugging the Planet (published by Chelsea Green). Her passion is insects and other invertebrates. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/02/04/657-vicki-hird/ for show notes and links. Rebugging the Planet.
Fri, January 28, 2022
Growing, Giving, and Making a Difference; A Garden Chat with Jenny Beasley.
A chat with Jenny Beasley. In This Garden Chat: Jenny Beasley talks about her 12 years working with Heart for the City Community Garden in Arizona. Grown from nothing more than a plot of dirt and a desire to help others, the garden is now a safe space where people exchange food and knowledge with neighbors from other cultures. Jenny recalls the work it took to get the garden off the ground, describes the tending that was required to grow a strong sense of community, and expresses appreciation for the many people who keep it growing. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Jenny Beasley received her certification as a health coach at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City along with her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University. She is currently the Director of Heart for the City Community Garden located in Glendale, AZ. She became involved with Heart for the City twelve years ago, a non-profit that helps change lives of inner city at risk youth by walking life with them. She was asked to spearhead a 1/2-acre community revitalization project…. a community garden in which they educate Title 1 school children and their families on gardening and provide families ways of growing their own healthy foods. Jenny decided to become a health coach to fulfill her passion of working with individuals to enhance their own well-being, and she is currently becoming a Master Gardener. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/01/28/656-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, January 21, 2022
Culinary & Aromatic Herbs
655: Culinary & Aromatic Herbs. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing herbs. A garden without herbs is like ice cream without hot fudge. Herbs enhance any meal, and drinking teas made from herbs is healing and medicinal. They can be perennial and annual allowing for many different planting opportunities, and they are usually easy to divide and reproduce. Bill and Greg explore this magical garden component. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/01/21/655-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, January 14, 2022
Alyssa Brodsky on Composting for Profit; Building a Network of Neighborhood Compost Hubs.
Building a Network of Neighborhood Compost Hubs. Do good and earn a profit? Sign us up! Alyssa Brodsky explains Food2Soil, a program in San Diego that creates soil farmers, people who get paid for turning food scraps from homes and restaurants into rich compost. She passionately describes how the program works, how she got involved, and the many ways the program has positively impacted both the environment and the participants. Alyssa also provides some tips for anyone considering a similar program in their own community. Alyssa is a Soil Farmer at Food2Soil, as well as their "Web Builder", meaning she is working to expand the Food2Soil web of decentralized community composting hubs throughout the city of San Diego, including policy work and participant outreach. She served in the Peace Corps working in agriculture for 3 years in Madagascar and with her partner is starting her own market garden farm. Alyssa is fueled by outrage that food scraps are considered "waste", and by awe in the beauty of the composting process. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/01/14/654-alyssa-brodsky/ for show notes and links. Composting for Profit.
Fri, January 07, 2022
Starting Fresh in 2022; A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson.
A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Starting Fresh in 2022: Greg takes a few minutes at the beginning of this new year to acknowledge the challenges of the last couple of years and to highlight the importance of growing our own food. He expresses gratitude for you, the Urban Farm community, and talks about ways we can support each other. Then he walks us through the comforting rhythms of his year round-garden, describing in detail the tasks of each season and the bountiful harvests he enjoys as a result of his efforts. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2022/01/07/653-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Starting Fresh in 2022.
Fri, December 31, 2021
Educational Gaps in Nutrition Density; Working to Increase Awareness About Healthy Food and Personal Health.
Working to increase awareness about healthy food and personal health. In This Podcast: Shannon Owen shares the joys and struggles of starting a new farm business with her husband, Chris. They saw a need in their community and decided to help by growing microgreens in their basement. Shannon reveals the magic that happens when they take their greens out into the community, and she describes the encouraging conversations that educate and bring people together, as well as the love of community that inspires them to grow and sell healthy, nutritious food. Shannon Owen and her husband, Chris, are the Co-Owners at Cheshire Curiosities MicroFarm & Homestead located in Evansville, Indiana. In 2020, they converted their basement to a commercial grow room with a heart for developing nutrient-dense food in their area by growing microgreens! With this newfound focus, they began a mission to feed their community by bringing healthy options to their local region. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/12/31/652-shannon-owen / for show notes and links. Educational Gaps in Nutrition Density.
Fri, December 24, 2021
Thinking Outside the Garden Box; A Garden Chat with Ray Jess.
A chat with Raymond Jess. In This Garden Chat: Farmer Greg talks with Raymond Jess and Janis Norton, from the Urban Farm, about a multitude of variations on the traditional garden box. They share their own experiences and discuss the unique advantages of each type of bed, covering topics such as how they work, how to set them up, and how to care for them. Raymond gives us a peek inside his garden, telling us what he is currently growing and how he is growing it, and Janis tells how to nourish your plants so they thrive. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Raymond Jess is the Urban Farm General Store leader, master gardener, and all around fun guy. Ray has been gardening for more than two decades and loves to experiment with ways to plant in the ground and in various containers. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/12/24/651-garden-chat/ for show notes and links.
Fri, December 17, 2021
Jennifer Foltz-Sweat on Urban Bee Communities; Working Toward Bee Conservation and Biodiversity in Urban Areas.
Working Toward Bee Conservation and Biodiversity in Urban Areas. In This Podcast: Jennifer Foltz-Sweat opens our eyes to the wide world of bees. By now many of us have heard that bees are a crucial element of the environment, but what should we do with that knowledge? Jennifer explains easy things we can do to attract bees to our garden and warns us what not to do. She gives uplifting examples of how important education is to conservation, tells us about the move toward citizen science, and encourages all of us to get involved. Jennifer Foltz-Sweat began researching wild bee ecology in 2002, while a graduate student in California. Her studies focused on determining how wild bee communities differed between grassland habitats and urban areas. She moved back to Arizona, where she grew up, in 2009 and began teaching at Arizona State University West campus and the Maricopa County Community College District. Jennifer continues to conduct research on urban bee communities with her undergraduate students. She is interested in measuring native bee foraging on urban flowering plants and characterizing urban bee communities. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/12/17/650-jennifer-foltz/ for show notes and links. Urban Bee Communities.
Fri, December 10, 2021
Jennier McGuinness on Micro Food Gardening; Growing Compact and Bountiful Gardens in the Smallest of Spaces.
Growing Compact and Bountiful Gardens in the Smallest of Spaces In This Podcast: Jennifer McGuinness’ contagious enthusiasm for gardening will have you pining to grow something. No space? No problem! Jen has found creative ways to grow food in small spaces. She gives us a taste of the small space gardening projects we’ll find in her new book and she shares the joy she found in writing and taking the photos for it. Jen tells about her website, describes all the things she loves about gardening, and revels in her current role in the gardening community. Jennifer McGuinness began regularly writing as Frau Zinnie in 2011 on her garden blog, FrauZinnie.com. The website features Jen’s writing, photography, personal experiences in her garden located in Connecticut, and interviews with garden experts. She is a proponent of organic methods and pollinator-friendly gardens, and excited about her first published book “ Micro Food Gardening: Project plans and plants for growing fruits and veggies in tiny spaces ”. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/12/10/649-jennifer-mcguinness/ for show notes and links. Micro Food Gardening.
Fri, December 03, 2021
Tony Horn on Living in Harmony; Returning to Living As We Were Designed.
Returning to Living As We Were Designed. In This Podcast: Listen as Tony Horn shows us where to look and what to do to rediscover peace in our lives. Tony shares his key definition of peace and his vision of a beautiful world where humans are once again living as nature intended. He explains that the biggest human struggles we face today have surfaced recently and are of our own making, but he believes we do have the power to eliminate these problems. First, though, we must wake up, gather together, and be willing to change. Tony is an educator and author. He has taught both junior high and college students, and has many years of corporate experience as an Instructional Designer. He is an author of several books including: The Three R’s: Government for the Way People Live and his most recent book Change or Perish . He’s also the founder of Community Groove, Inc., a non-profit company dedicated to rebuilding strong communities globally. He lives in Sun Lakes, AZ where he writes and enjoys playing tennis. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/12/03/648-tony-horn/ for shownotes and links. Living in Harmony.
Fri, November 26, 2021
Seth Siegel on Water Scarcity in Agricultural Areas.
Exploring Solutions to Current Water Challenges for Farming. In This Podcast: Seth Siegel is passionate about tackling the world’s water problems before they get to crisis level. He explains the practical steps necessary to put into practice the solutions he has gathered from around the world. Agriculture is one of the largest consumers of water, but most crops are watered using wasteful methods that are centuries old. Seth presents a new technological solution that is both effective and cost effective, making it more appealing to commercial farms. Seth is a serial entrepreneur, water activist, New York Times bestselling author, and the Chief Sustainability Officer for N-Drip. His critically acclaimed award-winning book Let There Be Water: Israel’s Solution for a Water-Starved World has been published in 20 languages and is on sale in more than 50 countries. His other books are Troubled Water: What's Wrong with What We Drink, and Other People’s Words all produced by St Martin’s Press. In addition to his books, his commentary on a range of topics has appeared in many leading publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. Seth has spoken on water issues at more than 325 venues in 68 cities, 26 states, and on four continents–and during the Coronavirus lockdown, to dozens of others via video. For his work in communicating water needs, he was named one of the 100 Global Water Heroes. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/11/26/647-seth-siegel/ for shownotes and links. Water Scarcity in Agricultural Areas.
Fri, November 19, 2021
Loving Those Legumes.
646: Loving Those Legumes. A Chat with an Expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the October 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing legumes. Beans and peas are great to eat and also great for your soil. Incorporating them into your garden rotation is smart and delicious. Pollinators also love legumes so it's a win-win all around. Plant them along a wall or fence for a beautiful display of cascading leaves and fruit for easy picking. There is so much to love about legumes! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/11/19/646-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, November 12, 2021
Composting for Your Neighbors; A Farmer Friday Interview with Alyssa Brodsky.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Alyssa Brodsky. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Composting for Your Neighbors: Have you tried composting food scraps, only to give up because you did not generate enough waste to be successful? Alyssa Brodsky shares details about a composting program that solves this problem. Residential participants learn how to collect local neighborhood waste and turn it into plenty of rich compost that they can share with their neighbors. Some participants even earn an income, making this a great way to enrich soil and enrich lives at the same time! Gardening tips, tricks, and advice, in short, bite-size episodes. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/11/12/645-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Composting for Your Neighbors.
Fri, November 05, 2021
Planting in the Right Season; A Garden Chat with Christy Wilhelmi.
A chat with Christy Wilhelmi. You’ll enjoy Christy Wilhelmi’s contagious enthusiasm for the cooler planting seasons as she explains how to increase your chance of success by planting the right crop in the right season. Christy covers it all, from the basics of what “in season” actually means, to the specifics of which crops do well in cooler temperatures. Hear why fall is her favorite season and learn some clever tips and tricks for getting the most out of this under appreciated time of the year. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org Our Special Guest: Christy Wilhelmi is founder of Gardenerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes newsletters, her popular blog, top-ranked podcasts, and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. She is author of Gardening for Geeks (Fox Chapel Publishing), 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success (Amazon Digital), Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden published by our friends at Cool Springs Press, and her upcoming novel Garden Variety (William Morrow/Harper Collins) will be sprouting in April 2022. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/11/05/644-garden-chat/ for show notes and links
Fri, October 29, 2021
Nifty Nightshades.
643: Nifty Nightshades. This is the September 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing nightshades. We are so glad the deadly nightshades aren’t! Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and tomatillos. Easy to save the seeds and so many reasons to. And the good news is that these plants are self-pollinating so no worries about your plants “getting crossed up.” Everyone’s favorite vegetable, tomato, could become your favorite seed saving variety. Plant, pick, save seeds. Oh and eat the fruit. Really! At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/10/29/643-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, October 22, 2021
Jeffrey Smith on the Impact of GMO's On Our Environment and Health.
Motivating People Into Action to Protect Our Ecosystems. In This Podcast: Jeffrey Smith sounds the alarm about the devastating harm that can be caused by genetic engineering. He explains how GMO’s have the potential to destroy entire microbiomes, and he describes the serious negative effects on people, pets and the environment. Discover the first step Jeffrey recommends we all take to start healing our bodies of dozens of diseases, then learn how easy it is to take that a step further. Take action and become an advocate for all of nature! Jeffrey is a bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker and celebrated public speaker. He has influenced the behavior and health of millions of people worldwide through his books like Seeds of Deception , and Genetic Roulette , and his podcast Live Healthy Be Well. Jeffrey is the founding executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which has started a global education campaign called Protect Nature Now with the documentary titled “Don’t Let the Gene Out of the Bottle”, which just won a Telly Award. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/10/22/642-jeffrey-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! The Impact of GMO's On Our Environment and Health.
Fri, October 15, 2021
Garden Soil Prep for Success; A Farmer Friday Interview with Christy Wilhelmi.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Christy Wilhelmi. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Garden Soil Prep for Success: Christy Wilhelmi returns to the Urban Farm, this time to talk about keeping life healthy below the ground as well as above it. Healthy soil is all about healthy microbes, and Christy shares her special recipes for feeding them. Hear why worm castings are a gardener’s secret weapon against certain pests and learn how to make a compost tea your soil will love. You’ll also discover how to use a broadfork and find out why you might want to trade in your tiller. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/10/15/641-farmer-friday/ under the Farmer Fridays section for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Garden Soil Prep for Success.
Fri, October 08, 2021
Zach Loeks on Edible Ecosystems In a Nutshell.
Focusing on Leveraging Micro Landscapes into Ecosystem Changes. In This Podcast: Zach Loeks encourages each of us to transform our human habitat by focusing on one small section of landscape at a time. He believes that changes are most successful when they are manageable, and he reminds us that positive change will naturally grow and spread. Zach paints a beautiful picture of “edible biodiversity” and then shares some manageable, specific changes that will move us toward that goal. Zach is an educator, designer and grower who specializes in Edible Eco-system Design through landscaping and education. He manages an award-winning farm with diversified food forest products, heirloom garlic, and a hardy tree nursery. He is also the director of the Ecosystem Solution Institute, which is dedicated to the education, propagation and inspiration of ecosystem solutions for land use transition. The Institute oversees pathbreaking education sites, including an Edible Biodiversity Conservation Area near Ottawa, Ontario and a suburban food forest in Winnipeg, Manitoba. And he is the author of several books including The Permaculture Market Garden , and The Edible Ecosystem Solution . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/10/08/640-zach-loeks/ for shownotes and links. Edible Ecosystems In a Nutshell.
Fri, October 01, 2021
Keeping Bees; A Farmer Friday Interview with Nicole Gennetta.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Nicole Gennetta. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Keeping Bees: Nicole Gennetta, a Master Beekeeper, sets us on the path to successful beekeeping by sharing the 5 steps she recommends beginners take before getting any bees. She tells how to determine if bees are legal on your property, and she recommends beginners learn all they can about beekeeping before making any purchases. Nicole gives tips on finding the information you need, purchasing equipment, and acquiring the bees for your new hive. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/10/01/639-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Keeping Bees.
Tue, September 28, 2021
Permaculture in the Garden; A Garden Chat with Kari Spencer.
A chat with Kari Spencer. In This Garden Chat: Great gardeners seem to know all the rules - but the very best gardener is the one who wrote the rules. She is Mother Nature and has no equal. Her systems and regenerative cycles CAN be replicated in our own gardens and food forests to help them be amazingly resilient. Permaculture is the best way to start and it can make your gardening much easier! Author Kari Spencer is going to help us find the best ways to adopt permaculture practices for increased resilience in our gardens. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. Our Special Guest: Kari Spencer is a popular local gardening & homesteading speaker. As a Master Gardener and a Master Farmer, she enjoys sharing her passion for growing and raising food with others. In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is the creator of Urban Farm U’s Growing Food the Basics & Backyard Livestock courses. She and her family operate The Micro Farm Project, a small farm in North Phoenix, where gardens and livestock animals provide her family with fun and food. Her book is City Farming: How-To Guide to Growing Crops & Raising Livestock in Urban Spaces. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/28/638-garden-chat/ for shownotes and links. Permaculture in the Garden.
Fri, September 24, 2021
Growing Great Berries; A Farmer Friday interview with Christy Wilhelmi.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Christy Wilhemi. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Growing Great Berries: Christy Wilhelmi helps us appreciate the potential of berries in our gardens and urban farms. She breaks down the different varieties of berries and why to choose different types for your own climate and harvest goals. We learn a bit about why some berries are better in containers, and some are fabulous in the ground, and why climate and chill hours can make or break your harvest. And she shares some highlights on blueberries and acidic soil as well as some fertilizing tips. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/24/637-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Growing Great Berries.
Tue, September 21, 2021
How to let your garden go to seed
636: How to let your garden go to seed. In This Podcast: This is the August 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing brassicas. Take the best seeds from this year’s garden and save them for the next. When you adapt and save seeds from plants that were hardy, and exhibited characteristics you like (disease and insect resistance for example) those seeds will work better in your garden the following year because after all, that is where they learned their new tricks. Join us and we’ll show you how to select the best seed for your best garden. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He is one of the creators of The Great American Seed Up. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/21/636-seed-chat/ for shownotes and links. How to Let Your Garden Go to Seed.
Fri, September 17, 2021
Rebugging Your Farm and Garden; A Farmer Friday Interview with Vicki Hird.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Vicki Hird. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Rebugging Your Farm and Garden: Vicki Hird reminds us that it is possible to have bugs without having a bug problem. In fact, when it comes to bugs, the more you have in your garden the better! Vicki provides information about the beneficial roles that bugs play and she tells how to nurture and protect them. Learn what to do to encourage (and live with!) a healthy bug population in your own garden as well as how to advocate for them in your community. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit w https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/17/635-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Rebugging Your Farm and Garden.
Tue, September 14, 2021
Erik Diedrichsen on Developing a New Poultry Feeder.
Turning Homesteading Skills Into a New Business Venture. In This Podcast: Anyone who has ever had chickens knows that feeding poultry is a messy business. Erik Diedrichsen found a better way, and in the process, he found his way into a new business venture. Erik shares his experience of growing a product from idea to market and explains what he believes it takes to be a successful inventor. Hear about the challenges he faced and the lessons he learned, and of course get the scoop on what Erik and Greg call the “best chicken feeder on the market”. Erik lost his main trade show business due to Covid. He turned to the skills he knew as a part-time homesteader and designed, patented, and produced the “best chicken feeder on the market” and started his new business PoultryProFeeder.com . Aside from wanting to provide a proven superior product, Erik is using the opportunity to learn the business process. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/14/634-erik-diedrichsen/ for shownotes and links. Developing a New Poultry Feeder.
Fri, September 10, 2021
Soil Is Not Dirt; A Farmer Friday Interview with Mike Biltonen.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Mike Biltonen. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Soil Is Not Dirt: Though the words are often used interchangeably, soil and dirt are not the same thing. Mike Biltonen explains that we must know the distinction before we can truly appreciate the treasure that is our soil. Once we realize its true worth, we will want to nurture and protect this most valuable resource, to preserve both the life in it and the life that comes from it. Mike gives details about specific ways we can do just that. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/10/633-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Soil Is Not Dirt.
Tue, September 07, 2021
Christy Wilhelmi on Growing Fruit in Small Spaces.
Don’t Let Yard Size Determine Your Harvests. In This Podcast: Are your fruit trees an investment or an experiment? Christy Wilhelmi talks about the steps needed to ensure that the fruit trees you plant in your yard are an investment that bears fruit. She covers every stage of the process, including planning your harvest, planting trees in suitable soil, and pruning to keep your trees a manageable size. Christy also explains why these steps are different from what you might hear in classes or read in agricultural textbooks. Christy is founder of Gardenerd, the ultimate resource for garden nerds, where she publishes newsletters, her popular blog, top-ranked podcasts, and YouTube videos. She also specializes in small-space, organic vegetable garden design, consulting, and classes. She is author of Gardening for Geeks (Fox Chapel Publishing), 400+ Tips for Organic Gardening Success (Amazon Digital), Grow Your Own Mini Fruit Garden published by our friends at Cool Springs Press, and her upcoming novel Garden Variety (William Morrow/Harper Collins) will be sprouting in April 2022. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/07/632-christy-wilhelmi/ for shownotes and links. Growing Fruit in Small Spaces.
Fri, September 03, 2021
Feeding Chickens; A Farmer Friday Interview with Nicole Gennetta.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Nicole Gennetta. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Feeding Chickens: What do chickens eat? Nicole Gennetta explains that they are omnivores and can eat just about anything, so she answers that question by providing an important list of foods to avoid. She discusses how to safely prepare specific foods and prevent food-related problems. Listen and learn how to grow chicks into healthy adults by considering their special nutritional needs, and even how to show your chickens some love with healthy treats they’ll appreciate. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/09/03/631-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Feeding Chickens.
Tue, August 31, 2021
Small Space - Big Potential; A Garden Chat with Niki Jabbour.
A chat with Niki Jabbour. In This Garden Chat: Great things come in small packages, even in gardening! Niki Jabbour’s enthusiasm for corners, windowsills, and balconies will have you reconsidering the growing potential of your tiniest spaces. Niki tells us what makes a good space, giving examples of some places that are often overlooked. Learn how to decide which foods to grow and where, how to plant them, and how to ensure your plants thrive in their small space. You’ll never look at a driveway the same way again! On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest:Niki is the author of four books on food gardening including The Year-Round Vegetable Gardener and Growing Under Cover . She’s also a two-time winner of the prestigious American Horticultural Society Book Award. She writes for newspapers and magazines and has hosted a weekly radio show for the past 14 years. Niki gardens in zone 5B in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/31/630-garden-chat/ for shownotes and links. Small Space - Big Potential.
Fri, August 27, 2021
Wrap Up of Roundup: A SPECIAL Farmer Friday Interview With Jeffrey Smith.
A SPECIAL Farmer Friday Interview with Jeffrey Smith. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Wrap Up of Roundup: Jeffrey Smith joins us to discuss the astonishing news that Bayer will discontinue sales of Roundup to residential consumers in the US. Jeffrey is a passionate advocate for people and nature in the fight against Roundup and GMO’s. He explains the significance of this announcement by discussing both the history leading up to it and the opportunities created by it. There is still much work to do to protect our health and safety, but this is a monumental step forward! Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/27/629-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Wrap Up of Roundup.
Tue, August 24, 2021
Brazen Brassicas.
628: Brazen Brassicas. In This Podcast: This is the July 2021 Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman discussing brassicas. Sassy, unpretentious and unapologetic, the brassica family covers some of the easiest and trickiest plants to grow, and from which to save seeds. Break through the mystery, the challenge, and myths and learn how to grow and save seeds from this family of diverse species which includes kale, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, arugula and broccoli. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/24/628-seed-chat/ for shownotes and links. Brazen Brassicas.
Fri, August 20, 2021
Ecosystem Mimicry and Layering: A Farmer Friday Interview With Zach Loeks.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Zach Loeks. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Ecosystem Mimicry and Layering: Greg welcomes back Zach Loeks to discuss how to simplify the process of ecosystem design by observing and mimicking the natural layers and patterns of existing ecosystems. Zach details what to look for when observing. He also explains how to create a more complete ecosystem by using layering to fill a space vertically and patterns to fill it horizontally. You will enjoy the fun examples he gives. Don't miss hearing Zach explain how to jazz up your design! Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/20/627-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Ecosystem Mimcry and Layering.
Tue, August 17, 2021
Kevin Espiritu on Epic Gardening Growth.
Getting Excited About Sharing Gardening Stories. In This Podcast: Kevin is passionate about gardening and driven to find ways to help others grow plants. We are excited to have him return, this time to give us updates about both his personal and professional gardening endeavors. Kevin shares stories of new digs, new products and a new book. All of his stories share the common themes of ease and sustainability, and all of them are generously sprinkled with epic tidbits of gardening wisdom. Kevin Espiritu began his business Epic Gardening as a way for him to present gardening information in a more modern, updated way to friends and family. First came the website, followed by YouTube, a daily podcast, and finally his social media presence on Instagram, and Facebook. Kevin is the author of Field Guide to Urban Gardening , and his new book is Grow Bag Gardening, both from our friends at Quarto Publishing. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/17/626-kevin-espiritu/ for shownotes and links. Epic Gardening Growth.
Fri, August 13, 2021
Old Growth in a Food Forest: A Farmer Friday Interview With Zack Loeks.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Zach Loeks. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Old Growth: Greg talks with Zach Loeks about old growth. Most of us think of redwood forests or the Amazon, but Zach explains how the concept of old growth also applies to food forests. Learn what old growth is and listen as Zach paints a beautifully vivid picture of what it looks like. He takes us on a journey through time, traveling back to the food forests of our ancestors, and forward to imagine what his planting will look like hundreds of years in the future. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/13/625-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Old Growth in a Food Forest.
Tue, August 10, 2021
Sharon Pesner on Eating the Rainbow.
Encouraging Children to Eat More Colorful Foods. In This Podcast: Sharon Pesner was just an ordinary mom, struggling to get her children to eat healthy foods, until she bravely presented her ideas at a PTA meeting and they grew into a program called Eating the Rainbow. Sharon shares how the program developed, the contagious excitement it generated, and the impact it had on the entire school community. She also reflects on the personal growth she experienced while working on the program, and she tells us where she volunteers now. Sharon Pesner is the creator of the Eating the Rainbow School Nutrition Program. A parent-led, community supported, principal & PTA endorsed, school-wide program that ran successfully at the Chestnut Hills Elementary School in Dix Hills, NY until it closed. Eating the Rainbow was an inspired idea that with the help of three other moms, and numerous volunteers, evolved into an EPIC program reaching far into the community and school district and impacting hundreds of kids and their families. Sharon is a mother of two ‘almost-adults’, and knows that a mom’s dedication to the health of her kids can move mountains when it needs to. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/10/624-sharon-pesner/ for shownotes and links. Eating the Rainbow.
Fri, August 06, 2021
How to Grow Potatoes: A Farmer Friday Interview With Kevin Espiritu.
In This Farmer Friday Podcast on How to Grow Potatoes: Greg dishes with Kevin Espiritu about potatoes. Bake them, mash them, or boil them in a stew…. There are many ways to eat the versatile potato and, as Kevin discovered, there are several ways to grow them as well! He gives us the steps for two common methods, and then he tells us what happened when he experimented to see if he could make the process even simpler. The result is what Kevin calls his “lazy potato” method, and it couldn’t be much easier! Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/06/623-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. How to Grow Potatoes.
Tue, August 03, 2021
Leon Kolankiewicz on Preserving Quality Farmland.
Working to Protect the Land That Produces Our Food. In This Podcast: Leon Kolankiewicz defines the problem of urban sprawl, and he describes the alarming rate at which it is permanently destroying farmland and our future food security. What is driving this sprawl, and what can we do about it? Leon is optimistic that farmland can be saved if long term trends are addressed. Hear the solutions he recommends, based on his decades of research, and the changes he believes can be made at both the individual and government levels. Leon is a consulting environmental scientist and planner. He has managed Environmental Impact Statements (EIS's) on projects ranging from dams and reservoirs to flood control facilities, roads, parks, power plants, oil drilling, and mines. He has assisted the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the preparation of management plans at 50 national wildlife refuges in many states. Receiving his B.S. at Virginia Tech and M.Sc. at the University of British Columbia, during his career he has worked for several agencies including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, National Marine Fisheries Service, as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Honduras, and as a consultant. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/08/03/622-leon-kolankiewicz/ for shownotes and links. Leon Kolankiewicz on Preserving Quality Farmland.
Fri, July 30, 2021
How to Grow Healthy Plants with Greywater; A Farmer Friday Interview With Laura Allen.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Laura Allen. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on How to Grow Healthy Plants with Greywater: Greg welcomes back Laura, from Greywater Action, this time to teach us some specifics about using greywater. While the concept of greywater is fairly straightforward, there are some basic rules. Laura tells us how to easily recognize and avoid things that should not be in the water, what happens if one of them should make it into the water, and what types of plants are suitable for greywater. She also shares some very handy resources. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/30/621-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. How to Grow Healthy Plants with Greywater.
Tue, July 27, 2021
Water In and For Our Landscape; A Garden Chat with Don Titmus.
A chat with Don Titmus. In This Garden Chat: Greg, co-host Janis Norton, and Don discuss how to apply permaculture concepts to address water issues in our landscapes. They dive deep to reveal the natural systems that protect plants from climate extremes, and they explore ways we can replicate these systems in our landscapes. Whether your local climate is wet or dry, hot or cold, you will appreciate the many practical tips for identifying, observing, and managing the water available on your property. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. Our Special Guest: Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then started his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. He co-founded the Phoenix Permaculture Guild, started a Permaculture design company, redesigned his home site into a permaculture design destination, and helped develop a thriving permaculture community in the Phoenix, Arizona area. He has presented in 5 cities, worked in several states, attended classes in 5 states, and pretty much lives and breathes permaculture. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/27/620-garden-chat/ for shownotes and links. Water In and For Our Landscape.
Fri, July 23, 2021
Margaret the Condo Gardener: A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson
A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Margaret the Condo Gardener: Greg tells the story of Margaret, who simply walked around her neighborhood and began her transition from food consumer to observer, and finally to gardener. She thought she was looking for a place to grow food. What she found was a renewed relationship with nature and stronger bonds within her community. Learn what Margaret did on her walks that allowed her to discover an abundant source of fresh, healthy food... and so much more! Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/23/619-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Margaret the Condo Gardener.
Tue, July 20, 2021
Wildflowers
618: Wildflowers. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the June 2021 class discussing wildflowers. Bill draws on his 28 years of careful observation as he shares expert tips for successful wildcrafting and planting of wildflower seeds, including mistakes to avoid. He also clears up some common misconceptions about wildflowers and discusses problems in the wildflower industry. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/20/618-seed-chat/ for shownotes and links.
Fri, July 16, 2021
Water Harvesting at the Urban Farm: A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson.
A Farmer Friday Reflection by Greg Peterson. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Water Harvesting at the Urban Farm: Farmer Greg’s sustainable, regenerative water harvesting system has him singing in the rain, even in the desert. Greg explains where the water comes from and where it goes, and he gives details about how he collects and distributes it. He also gives a formula for calculating the amount of water available for harvesting on your own site, along with other helpful tips and resources for getting started safely and legally. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/16/617-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Water Harvesting at the Urban Farm.
Tue, July 13, 2021
Tara Nolan on Revamping Raised Bed Designs.
Bringing New Life to Gardens. In This Podcast: Tara Nolan encourages us to grow edibles in whatever space we have and shows us how to think outside the 4 foot by 8 foot box when designing raised beds. Those who don’t have (or want) a full vegetable garden will appreciate her ideas for adding vegetables to the existing landscape. Tara also takes us along on her gardening journey and shares how she combined that passion with her passion for writing, resulting in two books full of creative gardening ideas. Tara is a co-founder of the award-winning gardening website Savvy Gardening. As a freelance writer and editor, her work has appeared in the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, CBC Life and Garden Making, among others. Tara’s latest book, Gardening Your Front Yard: Projects and Ideas for Big & Small Spaces was published in March 2020. Her first book, the best-selling Raised Bed Revolution: Build it, Fill it, Plant it… Garden Anywhere , came out in 2016. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/13/616-tara-nolan/ for shownotes and links. Tara Nolan on Revamping Raised Bed Designs.
Fri, July 09, 2021
Getting Started with Greywater: A Farmer Friday Interview with Laura Allen.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Laura Allen. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Getting Started with Greywater: Greg talks with Laura Allen from Greywater Action about a great way to get more life out of our water - by sending water we have already used in our home out to our gardens instead of down the drain. Laura reveals the easiest place in the house to get started and the best plants to water using greywater. She also explains how greywater systems work and how the installation compares to the very familiar traditional drip systems. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/09/615-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Getting Started with Greywater.
Tue, July 06, 2021
Jenn Frymark on Growing Fresh and Closer to Home.
Looking Outside Of The Box For Garden Growing. In This Podcast: Jenn Frymark has grown fresh produce in some very unexpected places, so she is a firm believer that everyone can grow fresh and close to home, wherever home might be. She explains how she took this belief a step further and started Gotham Greens, using her hard-earned expertise to find out if food could be grown and distributed locally as a business, rather than a grant-funded educational or community project. Jenn talks about the early challenges and many successes. Jenn is the Chief Greenhouse Officer of Gotham Greens, a pioneer in urban indoor agriculture with a national network of local high-tech farms. At Gotham Greens, Jenn oversees all greenhouse design and growing operations. Prior to Gotham Greens, she managed greenhouses at McMurdo and South Pole stations in Antarctica, providing fresh vegetables for U.S. research scientists. She also worked in the greenhouse at the Cuisinart Resort and Spa in Anguilla and designed and led operations for the Science Barge in New York City. Jenn earned a Master’s degree in Plant Sciences from The University of Arizona and a Bachelor’s degree in Plant Biology from Arizona State University. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/06/614-jenn-frymark/ for shownotes and links. Growing Fresh and Closer to Home.
Fri, July 02, 2021
Connecting with Nature; A Farmer Friday Interview with Kristina Hunter.
A Farmer Friday Interview with Kristina Hunter. In This Farmer Friday Podcast on Connecting with Nature: Greg is excited to speak with Kristina about the many benefits of connecting with nature, some of them unexpected! Kristina points out that we intuitively know that nature is good for us, and she recommends we include nature as a sacred part of our daily routine. She teaches that connecting with nature provides direct and immediate benefits to our bodies and our minds. Kristina and Greg both share simple ways they connect with nature each day. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/07/02/613-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Connecting With Nature.
Tue, June 29, 2021
Pathways to Healthy Soil; A Garden Chat with Emily Rockey.
A chat with Emily Rockey. In This Garden Chat: Emily Rockey joins us for an illuminating discussion on soil - the living, breathing foundation of every garden. Emily takes us down to the roots and peels back the layers to discover what makes up this fascinating, hidden ecosystem. Nature already knows how to make the best soil, and Emily discusses some simple ways to replicate and care for that perfect balance in our gardens. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To join us for the next event, go to www.GardenChat.org or Click HERE to register for the Monthly Garden Chat with Live Q&A Our Special Guest: Emily is the Garden Supervisor at Mission Garden in Tucson Arizona, a 4-acre living agricultural museum which invites the public to learn about local multicultural histories, sustainability and organic gardening, and the environment. She has studied plant sciences at the University of Arizona, served as an intern on organic farms in the U.S. and Italy, and worked in non-profits and businesses focused on sustainability, gardening, and promotion of compost and healthy soil. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/29/612-garden-chat/ for shownotes and links.
Fri, June 25, 2021
Caring For Orchards with Holistic Biodynamic Tree Paste
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice, in short, bite-size episodes. In This Farmer Friday Podcast: Greg is excited to speak with Andrew Faust about biodynamic tree paste , a concept Greg learned about years prior, yet it is not widely discussed. Andrew is an expert on biodynamics and he educates us on this tree paste that adds micronutrients and eliminates pest habitats in trees. There are variations for the recipe, however all the ingredients are simple, natural, and is one of the most holistic approaches to orchard care. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/25/611-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Caring For Orchards with Holistic Biodynamic Tree Paste.
Tue, June 22, 2021
Saving Seeds of Cucurbits
610: Saving Seeds of Cucurbits. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the May 2021 class discussing cucurbit varieties, crossbreeding squashes versus melons, and so much more on the main species of cucurbits and their differences that allow for 'wild crosses'. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/22/610-seed-chat/ for shownotes and links.
Fri, June 18, 2021
Growing Cover Crops for Multiple Benefits
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice, in short, bite-size episodes. In This Farmer Friday Podcast: Marlene Simon from Flower Power Garden Hour Podcast returns to reveal the many ways that cover crops can be used in the garden to add nitrogen, shade, moisture, and more. Marlene explains the process of nitrogen fixing and the most common mistakes gardeners make when trying to maximize nitrogen within the soil. Marlene and Greg discuss the benefits that arise with growing cover crops and how we can use them efficiently in the garden. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/podcast Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/18/609-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Growing Cover Crops for Multiple Benefits.
Tue, June 15, 2021
Jon Hayes on Online Farmers Marketplace
Expanding farmers reach to customers with busy schedules. In This Podcast: We hear from Jon Hayes about a new app he created and launched that brings local food even closer to home. Jon tells us how his app has many benefits outside of local food sourcing, and essentially can be utilized for anything to do with food production from gardening products to consulting services. With this app’s ability to reach a large market segment, this can be a fundamental solution to the global food system. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/podcast Jon is a software engineer and aspiring (sub)urban farmer and the founder of Locavore.co . Locavore is an online, hyper-local, peer-to-peer food network where you can find fresh locally grown produce, food services, opportunities, farm equipment and more to buy, rent, sell, share or trade. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/15/608-jon-hayes/ for shownotes and links. Jon Hayes on Online Farmers Marketplace.
Fri, June 11, 2021
Watching for Contaminants in Your Soil
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice, in short, bite-size episodes. In This Farmer Friday Podcast: Kristina Hunter from Live. Well. Green Podcast educates us on the many sources and types of contaminants that can be found in soil, especially in an urban garden. While some sources are evident, Kristina calls attention to also consider the site's history. Sharing viable solutions, Kristina guides us through some key tips to mitigate and avoid contaminated soil. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/podcast Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/11/607-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Watching for Contaminants in Your Soil.
Tue, June 08, 2021
Crystal Stevens on Regenerative Urban Farming
Bringing gardening methods full circle. In This Podcast: We learn from Crystal Stevens about the many inexpensive ways to build a regenerative and edible landscape using natural resources. Crystal describes the different possibilities that can be incorporated into any size space that can lead one down the path towards self-sufficiency. One of her specialties is herbs and she shares with us some of the medicinal properties of herbs and their health benefits. Don’t miss an episode! visit UrbanFarm.Org/podcast Crystal lives along the bluffs of the Mighty Mississippi River in Godfrey, Illinois with her husband, and 2 children. She is an Author, an Artist/Art Teacher, a Folk Herbalist, a Regenerative Farmer, and a Permaculturist. She has written 3 books published by New Society Publishers: Grow Create Inspire , Worms at Work , and Your Edible Yard . Crystal speaks at conferences and Mother Earth News Fairs across the United States and has been teaching a Resilient Living workshop series for over a decade. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/08/606-crystal-stevens/ for shownotes and links. Crystal Stevens on regenerative urban farming.
Fri, June 04, 2021
Using Biodynamic Approaches to Farming and Gardening
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice, in short, bite-size episodes. In This Farmer Friday Podcast: Greg is joined by Andrew Faust, host of Permaculture Perspectives podcast , who gives us an in-depth look at a holistic approach to growing plants called biodynamic farming . A term coined by a chemist and he tells us this is a practice that aligns permaculture principles with astrological patterns. Andrew shares the mystical perspectives of this approach that have been scientifically proven to work as ‘beyond organic’ methodologies for gardening and farming. Don’t miss an episode! Visit UrbanFarm.Org/podcast Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/04/605-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Using Biodynamic Approaches to Farming and Gardening.
Tue, June 01, 2021
Michael Schaeffer on Finding Farmhands
Connecting farmers with farm workers looking for jobs. In This Podcast: We learn about the Farm Post App created and designed by Michael Schaeffer, an entrepreneurial idea stemming from need to connect farmers with workers. While traditional ways of finding farm work have become obsolete, Michael has successfully implemented an easy-to-use app for farmers to post jobs and workers are able to apply directly through this app. Michael’s app was initially designed to support Iowa farmers, however due to its success the app is gaining momentum nationwide. Michael is an Iowa entrepreneur on a mission to close the technology gap in the farm employee market. With roots in farming and precision agriculture, Michael understands the challenges farmers face in connecting with the agricultural and urban farm workforce. After interviewing hundreds of farmers and ranch owners across the country, he developed the Farm Post App (Previously the farm hand app) to make it easy for farmers to connect with experienced help in their local areas. In less than two years, the Farm Post App has helped farmers fill thousands of positions in their farm operations. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/06/01/604-michael-schaeffer/ for shownotes and links. Michael Shaffer on Finding Farmhands.
Fri, May 28, 2021
Spotting Beneficial Predators in Your Garden
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. Marlene Simon from Flower Power Garden Hour podcast returns for an eye-opening chat on understanding all stages of the bug life cycle. Marlene tells us what signs to look for when certain eggs or insects appear in your garden, as our first instinct is to kill them however these could be indicators of nature working in your favor. Bugs also have the added benefit of helping us identify whether plants are healthy or not as Marlene says “ Bad bugs are attracted to stressed plants ”. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/28/603-farmer-friday/ for shownotes and links. Spotting beneficial predators in your garden.
Tue, May 25, 2021
Partnering with Nature
602: Partnering with Nature A chat with Jessica Walliser Jessica Walliser returns for a riveting discussion about unique ways we can partner with nature that will enable a thriving garden. Many perceive bugs or mushrooms as a pest problem, however, Jessica points out that fungi and insects can actually be an indicator of other things happening in your garden. Jessica guides us through different ways that we can utilize nature to create a symbiotic ecosystem and identifying the difference between pests versus beneficial bugs. On the last Tuesday every month we host The Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To register for the live classes go to www.GardenChat.org Jessica co-hosted The Organic Gardeners , an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for 15 years, is a former contributing editor for Organic Gardening magazine as well as being a co-founder of the popular gardening website SavvyGardening.com. Jessica is the author of seven gardening books, including the Amazon best-seller Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and her newest book Plant Partners: Science-based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/25/602-garden-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, May 21, 2021
Avoiding Three Common Mistakes When Starting a Homestead
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. Returning guest Brian Wells, host of The Homestead Journey podcast, shares the most common yet avoidable mistakes that everyone should know when beginning a homestead. Brian points out that homesteading is a journey of trial and tribulation with emphasis on not a 'one size fits all' approach. The tips he shares focus importance on being realistic, accepting failure, and knowing what works best for you and your space. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/21/601-farmer-friday/ under the Farmer Fridays section for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Avoiding three common mistakes when starting a homestead.
Tue, May 18, 2021
Saving Seeds of Grasses and Grains
600: Saving Seeds of Grasses and Grains. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the April 2021 class discussing the importance of growing our own grains, ancient grain sources, and so much more on which grains are best for specific regions. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/18/600-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, May 14, 2021
Building Healthy Soil with Five Essential Components
Building Healthy Soil with Five Essential Components. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. Greg kicks off this episode with answering two questions from our listeners that focus on aspects of looking at pest management from a different angle. Tying into our main focus, Greg shares with us the concept of understanding natural pest management and what will bring the healthy life you want in your space. In order to have healthy life, Greg guides us through the five necessary components that we should be adding to our soil that will produce healthy plants. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/14/599-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, May 11, 2021
Tommie Hockett on Sharing Seeds with Friends
Tommie Hockett on sharing seeds with friends. Splitting a Seed Up In a Box with six others and building community resilience. We hear first-hand experience from one of our avid podcast listeners, Tommie Hockett, on how he hosted a community seed sharing event. Living in rural Texas, Tommie does not have many close neighbors and he shares with us how he devised a plan to build community resilience that expanded across county lines. Tommie notes how his expectations were exceeded throughout the process from the number of seeds he received to the unexpected guests that showed up out of curiosity. Tommie runs Sissy & Bubba's Farmstead alongside his beautiful wife Chellie. Through their strong faith, they are striving to be good stewards while living a self-sufficient life full of abundance! Tommy recently convinced a few friends to go in on a purchase of a Seed Up In a Box and had their own seed sharing event. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/11/598-tommie-hockett/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, May 07, 2021
Uncovering the Root Causes of Blossom End Rot
Uncovering the Root Causes of Blossom End Rot. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. Marlene Simon, host of the Flower Power Garden Hour Podcast , joins us this week as she uncovers the truths and busts the myths about blossom end rot. Marlene explains how many people believe the issue stems from a lack of calcium in the soil. Lacking substance in the soil is not usually the case, however, the main causes can be prevented at the roots. She reveals her top tips that will help naturally correct the issue and advises not to waste money on special sprays. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/07/597-farmer-friday/ under the Farmer Fridays section for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, May 04, 2021
Patti Milligan on Saliva and the Immune System
Patti Milligan on Saliva and the Immune System. Improving our body’s resilience to environmental and emotional stressors. This week we delve into the world of saliva research as we speak with Patti Milligan on the importance of healthy saliva production. Patti describes how our saliva production can be impacted by the foods we eat and when we eat those certain foods that create healthy saliva, this bolsters our immune systems. Patti advises us on some tried and true ways to improve saliva production including the types of foods we should be eating and which foods to avoid. Patti has been in the nutrition field for nearly 40 years. Working in clinical nutrition, integrative medicine and natural foods, Patti brings a unique blend of clinical, educational, holistic, consumer, and PR experience. Her work and passion in the field of Neuroscience of Taste has led her to the field of saliva research and exploring the ‘ why’ behind the foods we like. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/05/04/596-patti-milligan/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 30, 2021
Defining What is Modern Homesteading
Defining what is modern homesteading. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. Greg invites Brian Wells, host of The Homestead Journey Podcast , to share with us how he defines what it means to be a homesteader. Brian describes homesteading as a lifestyle that has evolved into the modern era where its definition depends on the standpoint of where people live and what they do. He emphasizes that homesteading is not about the destination rather it is more about the journey, because a journey is never truly complete, it is continuously evolving. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/30/595-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, April 27, 2021
Designing Your Edible Landscape
594: Designing Your Edible Landscape. A chat with Kristin Parsons. We visit with Kristin Parsons who helps us explore the beneficial concepts of permaculture design and how to integrate functionality into the outdoor living space. We cover the important components of food forests, the first steps for beginners, and how to create ‘guilds’ for a thriving edible landscape. This is the first episode of our NEW monthly Urban Farm Garden Chats where Greg Peterson has a relaxed conversation in a Zoom room with a special guest to cover useful gardening topics, and they answer questions from the live listening audience. To register for the live classes go to www.GardenChat.org Kristin is a native Texan, who went to college in Kansas and ended up in Arizona in 2004. She has been gardening, raising chickens, planting fruit trees, and constructing buildings ever since! Although Kristin has been an architect designing interiors and commercial buildings, her roots began with spending time in the garden with her grandfather as a child and was drawn to the concept of permaculture. After completing a permaculture design course, she made a career change and now works full time as a consultant helping her clients with edible landscape designs. She formed her business Cultivated LLC six years ago and currently is in the process of designing 45 acres worth of landscape. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/27/594-garden-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 23, 2021
Exploring the Seven Layers of a Food Forest
Exploring the Seven Layers of a Food Forest. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. In This Brief Bite: Greg invites Crystal Stevens on our show to illustrate the seven dense layers of a food forest and the important role each layer provides to an ecosystem. From the top canopy layer to the microbes under the soil, Crystal points out how each layer is an interrelated network that optimizes nutrient uptake at each level. She closes with the importance of dynamic accumulators, an underestimated aspect for creating healthy soil. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/23/593-farmer-friday/ listed under Farmer Friday's for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, April 20, 2021
Saving Seeds of Onions, Umbels, and More
592: Saving Seeds of Onions, Umbels, and More. A chat with an expert on Seeds. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the March 2021 class discussing the many varieties of umbels, unique characteristics of onions and garlic, as well as so much more on aspects of permaculture as it relates to saving seeds. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/20/592-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 16, 2021
Adding Nutrients to Your Plants
Adding liquid nutrients to your plants. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. In This Brief Bite: Farmer Greg chats with Anthony Dominguez, the co-founder and C.O.O. of HyKreations, a company that produces liquid soil amendments and fertilizers. Anthony informs us on the process of foliar feeding and why trees and plants will greatly benefit from the additional nutrients. He also speaks in-depth on their line of liquid amendments that optimize nutrient delivery to your plants. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/16/591-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, April 13, 2021
Jeffrey Smith on Genetically Modified Microbes
Jeffrey Smith on Genetically Modified Microbes. Raising public awareness about gene editing. After attending a lecture on GMO’s twenty-five years ago, Jeffrey Smith could not help but feel concerned about the future impacts of genetic engineering on ecosystems. Jeffrey speaks on the growing intensity of GMO contamination in all aspects of life and he advocates the importance of protecting the global microbiome. Jeffrey also points out that genetic engineering creates unpredictable changes in organisms and if not careful, can eliminate terrestrial plant life. Jeffrey is a bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker and celebrated public speaker. He has influenced the behavior and health of millions of people worldwide through his books like Seeds of Deception , and Genetic Roulette , and his podcast Live Healthy Be Well. Jeffrey is the founding executive director of the Institute for Responsible Technology, which has started a global education campaign call Protect Nature Now with the first documentary titled “Don’t Let the Gene Out of the Bottle”. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/13/590-jeffery-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 09, 2021
Starting an Organic Orchard
Starting an Organic Orchard. Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. In This Bite: Greg Peterson chats with the Urban Farm General Manager, Janis Norton, as she shares the story behind how she and Greg met, what led Janis to the world of organic gardening, and how she transformed her backyard from a dead & barren, desert-dirt slab to a vibrant and green, food producing urban jungle. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Fridays episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/09/589-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this Farmer Friday episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, April 06, 2021
Jessica Walliser on Science-Based Companion Planting
Jessica Walliser on Science-based Companion Planting. Using tested methods to plan garden planting. In This Podcast: Discovering the science-based facts behind companion planting, Jessica Walliser captivates us with her expert knowledge on the unique benefits that arise when pairing plants together. Jessica explains how companion planting can be used as a strategy to improve soil health, manage pests, and even produce tastier vegetables. She helps us explore the various uses for companion planting and depending on the goal, how these practices will contribute to adding diversity in your space. Jessica co-hosted The Organic Gardeners , an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for 15 years, is a former contributing editor for Organic Gardening magazine as well as being a co-founder of the popular gardening website SavvyGardening.com. Jessica is the author of seven gardening books, including the Amazon best-seller Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and her newest book Plant Partners: Science-based Companion Planting Strategies for the Vegetable Garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/06/588-jessica-walliser/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Fri, April 02, 2021
First Farmer Friday
Gardening tips, tricks, and advice in short, bite-size episodes. In This Brief Bite: This is the first episode of the Farmer Friday Chats and Greg answers some questions about the importance of microbial life in your soil, foliar feeding and its benefits, and how to ‘establish’ your citrus trees. Do you ever wish you could catch those tidbits of wisdom that some people throw out without warning? Well, in our new Farmer Friday episodes - Farmer Greg shares quick thoughts, revelations, tips, and general farming advice in bite-sized and fun episodes. Sometimes it might be Greg just sharing a thought that hit him while working in the yard, or a really cool inspiration from the garden, and occasionally he’ll answer some listener questions. Other times he will catch a moment with a farming friend or podcast guest to share educational farming tidbits. This quick podcast episode is designed to be brief and not take up your day. So… listen in and enjoy this Garden snack… Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/04/02/587-farmer-friday/ for the show notes on this Farmer Friday episode, and access to our full podcast library! First Farmer Friday
Tue, March 30, 2021
Niki Jabbour on Growing Under Cover
Nikki Jabbour on Growing Under Cover. Protecting gardens from cold weather and pests and extending growing seasons. An intriguing conversation on how to garden year-round in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Niki Jabbour illustrates her growing techniques that she claims to be a ‘game-changer’ in her garden. Niki describes the different types of crop covers used for various plants that can allow you to garden during winter as well as maintaining resilience against pests. She also emphasizes the importance behind creating microclimates in her space to produce the best tasting vegetables. Niki is the author of four books on food gardening including The Year-Round Vegetable Gardener and Growing Under Cover . She’s also a two-time winner of the prestigious American Horticultural Society Book Award. Niki writes for newspapers and magazines and has hosted a weekly radio show for the past 14 years. Growing Under Cover , her latest book focuses on techniques for a more productive, weather-resistant, pest-free vegetable garden. Nikki gardens in zone 5B in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Has about 20 raised beds, assorted cold frames, and a polytunnel in her garden. She harvests year round without adding heat by using garden covers like row covers, shade cloth, mini hoop tunnels, cold frames, a 14 by 24 foot polytunnel and deep mulching. Her techniques not only allow her to enjoy a year-round harvest but they reduce pests. They also create a microclimate around her plants which allows growing heat loving veggies in a short season climate. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/03/30/586-niki-jabbour/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, March 23, 2021
Eddy Badrina on Growing Vertically in Greenhouses
Eddy Badrina on Growing vertically in greenhouses. Transforming industrial agriculture. In This Podcast: In This Podcast: Exploring the future of farming, we chat with Eddy Badrina about a new technology that can be a viable solution for creating a regenerative food system. Eddy shares his concerns the impacts traditional farming has on the environment and how the greenhouse technology at Eden Green can shrink down 35 acres of farming into just over an acre. Receiving international attention, he says that vertical farming could be the answer to providing local, healthy foods at commercial levels. Eddy is a graduate of Texas A&M University, and the Bush School for Government and Public Service. He has had mission-critical roles at the US Department of State, executive leadership at a White House Initiative, and director level positions at two successful startups. And, he is CEO of Eden Green Technology, a vertical farming technology company dedicated to changing the way we farm our food and feed our communities. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/03/23/585-eddy-badrina/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, March 16, 2021
Where, When, & How to Start Saving Seeds
584: Where, When, & How to Start Saving Seeds. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the February 2021 class discussing the importance behind creating systems for local seed viability, reclaiming ancient grains and heirloom seeds, and so much more on how to create fundamental changes to our food supply. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/03/16/584-seed-chat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, March 09, 2021
Gregg Muller on Breeding Your Own Vegetables
Gregg Muller on Breeding Your Own Vegetables. Breeding vegetables for a unique variety that is well-suited to your climate. In This Podcast: Diving into the topic of breeding for genetic seed diversity, Gregg Muller’s curiosity led him to experiment with crossbreeding unique seed varieties. Gregg illustrates the epic vegetable breeds he has been creating from purple snow peas to ‘single serve’ melons. Living in the dry climate of Bendigo, Victoria in Australia, he discusses the importance of protecting open genetic resources in the face of changing environmental conditions. Gregg holds a Bachelor of Arts in pure mathematics and philosophy, diploma of teaching, a graduate diploma of outdoor education, a master’s degree in environmental science, and is currently enrolled in a PhD program examining the ecology of root-parastic trees. He has worked as a park ranger, Secondary school maths and science teacher, environmental planner, outdoor instructor, and spent the last 19 years as a natural history lecturer at university. But his passion, as you will soon learn, is growing vegetables. He has grown vegetables for over 50 years, but now concentrates on breeding locally adapted vegetables, providing seeds for his local community and interested vegetable growers and breeders with climates similar to the dry, Mediterranean conditions of Central Victoria, Australia. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/03/09/583-gregg-muller/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, March 02, 2021
Patti Milligan on Growing Healthier Eaters
Patti Milligan on Growing Healthier Eaters. Connecting childhood nutrition to gardening. In This Podcast: A fascinating chat with Patti Milligan lets us explore ways to help children crave healthier foods. Patti discusses how taste, smell, and environment are influential to what drives our diet preferences from a young age. She encourages parents to embrace sensory appreciation when introducing children to new and healthy foods that will shape their perceptions and better evolve maturing taste buds. Patti has been in the nutrition field for nearly 40 years. Her work and passion in the field of Neuroscience of Taste has led her to the field of saliva research and exploring the why behind the foods we like. Working in both clinical nutrition and integrative medicine/natural foods, Patti brings a unique blend of clinical, educational, holistic, consumer, and PR experience. She and her son created the Be Memorable foundation in which they support individuals making a difference in novel ways for kids’ nutrition (focusing on school gardens and childhood cancer). She is the author of Why is Shirley Unusual? an interactive children’s nutrition & gardening book, the proceeds of which go to sponsoring school gardens. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/03/02/582-patti-milligan/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, February 23, 2021
Seed Saving Class December 2020
580: Seed Saving Class December 2020. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the December 2020 class discussing the highlights of seed saving topics from the year, from proper seed storage to seed viability, and so much more about why plants thrive better from saved seeds. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/02/23/581-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, February 16, 2021
Jessica Smith on Healthy Soil and Healthy Plants
Jessica Smith on Healthy Soil and Healthy Plants. How healthy soil supports healthy plants and how growing food can solve many of the world’s. An inspiring conversation with Jessica Smith on the importance of healthy soil, an overlooked resource that could solve many of the world’s problems. Jessica shares the story of her journey towards understanding life within soil and how nurturing plant life is the same as nurturing the human body. Her Mission: Encouraging the world to understand that our role in nature is to support it, not control it. Jessica is a Certified Ecological Farmer and Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. With a B.S. in Sustainable Living and Living Soils, and a Masters in Soil Science, she combines her passions to encourage the earth and its inhabitants back into a state of balance and vitality. She teaches regenerative and ecological gardening and farming in hopes to improve soil health, ecosystem health, environmental health, and human health. Jessica also co-created & co-produced the movie Grow Food found at GrowFoodFilm.com Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/02/16/580-jessica-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, February 09, 2021
Michael Kilpatrick on Starting a New Farm
Michael Kilpatrick on Starting a New Farm. Helping others navigate the challenges of starting a new farm. Farming is often perceived as a career that requires long hours, little leisure and profit. However, Michael Kilpatrick spends every day working towards his vision working with farmers to create sustainable farming systems that generate profit and provide the ability to enjoy life. Listen in to learn about his ideas on how to build a profitable farm, the most important aspects of farming, as well as sound advice for someone who is looking to start a new farm. Michael is a farmer, presenter, host, inventor and online entrepreneur who lives to help farmers apply business principles and practical, proven solutions to grow their businesses and de-stress their lives. He has managed large certified organic farms and businesses, consulted for industry experts, and spoken at dozens of industry conferences. He is the host of the Thriving Farmer Podcast and Summit series, Visionary and educator at Growing Farmers, and farmer at The Farm on Central. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/02/09/579-michael-kilpatrick/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, February 02, 2021
Zack Greene on Running a Quail Farm
Zack Greene on Running a Quail Farm. Raising Coturnix Quail and distributing their eggs. Self-sufficiency is steadily trending to be the new lifestyle where people are reverting back to homesteading practices of the past. However, Zack Greene followed a slightly different path of self-sufficiency that turned out to be the best decision of his life. Listen in to learn about the benefits of quail farming, how quail production results in quality and quantity, as well as why raising quail is perfect for self-sufficiency. Zack is a former multistore restaurant manager for a turned homesteader that specializes in coturnix quail. His family has been switching to self-sufficiency over the past 10 years through gardening, canning, raising animals and more. His quail journey has led him to 5,000 birds and a self-started company that now ships 500,000 hatching eggs a year. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/02/02/578-zack-greene/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, January 26, 2021
Quita Jackson on Off-Grid Container Homes
Quita Jackson on Off-Grid Container Homes. Building small homes using thrifty resources. In This Podcast: Our ancestors were the pioneers of the past that lived off the land and as society advanced, so did our way of life. Currently, we are living life unsustainably and creating waste along the way. However, Quita Jackson had a vision to revert back to living like the mothers before her and decided to follow her dreams of living off-grid. Listen in to learn about how she built her container home, the challenges along the way, and the importance of mimicking mother nature. Nature Lover, Mom and Wife, Producer, Storyteller, and Educator are just some of the words that describe Quita. She is the founder and host of GreenDesert.org; a site dedicated to leaving less of a carbon footprint by mimicking nature. From helping build school gardens, to building off-grid shipping container homes, to sharing backyard-to-kitchen recipes, She truly lives a sustainable lifestyle and strives for zero waste. Her GreenDesert TV page has more than 100 videos sharing her lifestyle. Quita also produced and created shows for ABC News in Phoenix for the last 20 years. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/01/26/577-quita-jackson/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, January 19, 2021
Casey Cox on the Story of our Farm
Casey Cox on the Story of our Farm. Being a young farmer with a long family history of farming. In This Podcast: There are many people that grow up on a farm that choose to leave to find their calling in the city. However, Casey Cox left her family farm to find her calling only to realize that her destiny was calling from her back yard all along. Listen in to learn about how she found her passion in conservation, her role as a farmer and land stewardship advocate, as well as the various life changing opportunities she has been involved in. Casey is the sixth generation of her family to farm on the Flint River in South Georgia. Her family farm, Longleaf Ridge, produces sweet corn, peanuts, field corn, soybeans, and timber. Prior to returning to the farm full-time, Casey managed the Flint River Soil and Water Conservation District, serving as Executive Director for over 5 years. In this role, she developed and directed multiple projects with Federal, state, and private partners and was responsible for procuring and managing over $13.5 million of funding for conservation programs. She was appointed by Secretary Sonny Perdue in 2019 to serve as Georgia’s Alternate Board Member on the National Peanut Board. Casey holds a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Conservation from the University of Florida. Her most significant professional contribution to date was teaching Cookie Monster and Gonger where peanut butter comes from on Season 49 of Sesame Street. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/01/19/576-casey-cox/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, January 12, 2021
Josh Krenz on Farming Sensors and Data
Josh Krenz on Farming Sensors and Data. Examining the science of farming. In This Podcast: Imagine if farmers could predict annual weather patterns to determine water use, soil moisture, and avoid crop failures, yet this seems far from possible. However, Josh Krenz works with a company that creates devices to collect farming data and essentially facilitates farmers’ ability to “predict the future”. Listen in to learn about what types of data is collected, how EarthScout sensors maximize efficiency for farmers, and the differences in results of crops that used farming sensors. Josh is the Chief Commercial Officer at EarthScout, a global company based in Minnesota offering technology to support science-minded growers. Josh’s agriculture business and marketing knowledge extends to both domestic and international markets in the areas of precision agriculture, nutrients, agricultural inputs, plant growth regulators, seed, and animal health. In addition to his responsibilities at EarthScout, he is the Founder/CEO of Vivid Life Sciences, a sustainable plant physiology company, as well as the Co-founder/President of Windland Flats, a grass-fed beef brand and farm. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/01/12/575-josh-krenz/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, January 05, 2021
Jennifer Caraway on The Joy Bus Meal Program
Jennifer Caraway on The Joy Bus Meal Program. Delivering heart and hope to cancer survivors through tasty meals. In This Podcast: COVID caused a shift towards a new normal way of life with social distancing protocols and at-home confinement, yet, for cancer patients this is their everyday life. However, Jennifer Caraway became inspired to lead a movement that supports cancer patients in need after the loss of a close friend to cancer. Listen in to learn about the heartfelt story behind The Joy Bus Meal Program, what kind of meals are patients receiving, and how the program is supported by the wider community. Jennifer loves serving good food. Starting out as a dishwasher at the age of 14 and working absolutely every position within the front and back of the house, she opened her first restaurant at the age of 26 and later several more both in the US and in Mexico. Among her many awards she is the 2018 recipient of the Organization for Nonprofits Executives ‘Organizational Accomplishment and Innovation Award’ and a Food Network Chopped Champion. Jennifer has leveraged her deep knowledge of the food industry to establish The Joy Bus Diner, a breakfast and lunch hotspot that funds her established non-profit The Joy Bus program, which delivers gourmet meals, friendly conversation and education programs free of charge to homebound cancer patients. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/01/05/574-jennifer-caraway/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, December 29, 2020
Dorie Morales on the Fresh Food Collab
Dorie Morales on the Fresh Food Collab. Working to reshape the narrative surrounding food scarcity. 2020 is the year that the world experienced two pandemics: The COVID virus and exponential unemployment. Many have turned to food banks but are not receiving the necessary nutrition. However, Dorie Morales is collaborating with the local community to educate, inspire, and ensure access to healthy fresh foods for those in need. Listen in to learn about Dorie’s role in the Fresh Food Collab, their unique local partnerships, and the various community members being supported. Dorie is the Publisher and CEO of Green Living magazine, Arizona’s premiere eco-conscious lifestyle publication. The monthly publication aims to educate, inspire and empower readers to make eco-conscious choices for a healthy life and planet. Their Vision is a world where we leave the earth a better place today and for future generations. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2021/01/05/573-dorie-morales/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, December 22, 2020
Neil Boyd on Life on a Grain Farm
Neil Boyd on Life on a Grain Farm. Farming in Northern Alberta. Farming in Northern Canada can be challenging due to short growing seasons and soil so thick that only resilient plants survive. However, Neil Boyd understands the land better than most and he also knows the secrets to successful farming while being a sustainable land steward. Listen in to learn about cool season crop rotation, the importance of no till seeding, and the type of “trash” that is good for the environment. Neil was born and raised on a fourth-generation farm which was originally homesteaded by his grandfather in 1913. Through the years he has attended a college of agriculture and been involved with plant and animal research organizations. Along with his wife Ruby, plus family and friends, the land now produces cool season grain crops in a way that preserves the soil. Besides farming, he is currently the vice-president of the Feathered Pipe Foundation, a Yoga retreat center in Montana, and has done volunteer work in Africa with water filter systems and youth leadership training. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/12/22/572-neil-boyd/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, December 15, 2020
Seed Saving Class November 2020
571: Seed Saving Class November 2020. A chat with an expert on Seeds. At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the November 2020 class discussing seed health and your health, resurrecting ancient grains, and so much more on how saving seeds creates a healthy community. Come join us for the next live class, or catch up on our previous classes through our podcast episodes. Either way you will expand your seed knowledge and gain new perspectives on your food system. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/12/15/571-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, December 08, 2020
Matt Arthur on Bokashi Composting
Matt Arthur on Bokashi Composting. Composting food anaerobically. In This Podcast: Composting provides many benefits to the garden, yet, people hesitate to compost for various reasons, mainly the aggressive odors that come with the process. However, Matt Arthur is utilizing a composting system on his farm not common to the U.S. that builds healthy soil with less effort and less smell. Listen in to learn about the bokashi composting system, how Matt is reducing food waste, and the types of inputs that will transform the health of the garden. Matt is a second-generation regenerative farmer growing specialty cut flowers, expanding an apiary, and collecting residential food waste in Missouri with a focus on soil health, native plants, and integrated pest management. He applies lessons learned from working in a major agribusiness to small-scale intensive farming. His family-owned row-crop farm since 1974 grows corn, soy, and wheat using no-till and cover crops for dryland agriculture. Matt also sells bokashi kits & organic MO-kashi bran for indoor anaerobic composting as well as composting worms & worm towers. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/12/08/570-matt-arthur/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, December 01, 2020
Angeline Young about Starting from Scratch
Angeline Young about Starting from Scratch. Creating a garden with little money, space, or experience. In This Podcast: Many people believe gardening requires money, experience, and a yard with ample space. However, Angeline Young has been an urban apartment dweller most her life and recently, she put herself to the challenge while adding creativity to her limited space. Listen in to learn about Angeline’s trials and errors through her recent gardening quest, her upcycled watering and planting systems, as well as how to naturally eliminate pests and build healthy soil. Angeline is a dancer and scholar from San Francisco, California. She is currently completing her PhD in Comparative Cultures and Languages at Arizona State University. Her research focuses on the Chinese community in Rome, Italy. In her spare time, Angeline has started a small container garden. Her “garden” is an 8x6-foot balcony in a large apartment complex. Using grow pots, milk cartons, and recycled plastic containers, she is cultivating her green thumb. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/12/01/569-angeline-young/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, November 24, 2020
Mike McMahon on the Fresh Food Collab
Michael McMahon on the Fresh Food Collab. Improving access to adequate food for the Working Poor. In This Podcast: The rise of COVID-19 sent the world into a panic as we saw grocery store shelves emptied across the nation. All of the sudden there was not enough food, distributors were tossing food, and food banks were constrained. However, Michael McMahon saw the problem and wanted to become a part of the solution. Listen in to learn about how he is supporting food banks, eliminating food waste, and what he is doing to create a local food system for the urban environment. Michael graduated from State University of New York at Buffalo with a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Design, and Arizona State University with a master’s degree in Urban Planning. For 30 years, he has been the owner of AEC a commercial landscape company, specializing in native plant salvage and revegetation. Michael is the founder of the community garden Agave Farms, in Phoenix and a non-profit, Urban Farming Education. His non-profit partnered with other organizations to initiate the Fresh Food Collab as a response to economic impacts of Covid 19 and fill the growing need of adequate food in the community. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/11/24/568-michael-mcmahon/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, November 17, 2020
Liane Hasner on Creating an Urban Farm
Liane Hasner on Creating her Urban Farm. Expanding the functionality of her property. In This Podcast: Lately, spending time outdoors has become the new way to keep sane during COVID. This has sparked a rising trend in urban farming. However, Liane Hasner has become inspired to be an urban farmer, not just as a hobby, but as a way to support herself, the community, and the planet. Listen in to learn about her regenerative practices on the farm, what permaculture means to her, and where to find resources to be a mindful environmental steward. Liane learned gardening from her parents by helping to plant flowers as well as pick string beans, tomatoes, and peaches in Northeast Philadelphia. She attended Saul High School of Agricultural Sciences initially wanting to become a veterinarian before realizing blood and guts were not her thing. She received a Bachelors in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Penn State University and worked a few different management positions, including at a farm to table restaurant which reignited her gardening spark. Liane and her husband David purchased their dream home two years ago in New Jersey and have started creating their urban farm. Inspired by The Urban Farm Podcast, Liane decided it was necessary to come up with a name. After a few days, and countless suggestions from friends and loved ones, David finally blurted out “Something! Anything!” and that was it. They are now in the process of transforming their already beautiful property into a complete oasis and mostly edible landscape. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/11/17/567-liane-hasner/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, November 10, 2020
Seed Saving Class October 2020
566: Seed Saving Class October 2020. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the October 2020 class discussing gardening hacks, hybrid seeds, natural seed saving methods, and so much more about having fun making a mess in the garden. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/11/10/566-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, November 03, 2020
Donna Kilpatrick on Bringing Food Closer to Home
Donna Kilpatrick on Bringing Food Closer to Home. Helping others understand the value of small farms. In This Podcast: Large-scale farming is known to be labor-intensive and supports practices that are harmful to the natural environment However, Donna Kilpatrick has spent much of her life’s work as a land steward, facilitating regenerative and sustainable agricultural practices to bolster small-scale farmers and a thriving local ecosystem. Listen in to learn about how Donna made a career out of her passion, what she does to educate her community, and the importance of training new farmers. With over twenty years of experience in agriculture, Donna is a land steward, specializing in regenerative agriculture, and ecosystem health and abundance. She has been with Heifer USA since 2007, overseeing all agriculture enterprises on Heifer Ranch since 2017. Prior to returning to farming full-time, Donna was a volunteer for the Peace Corps in Ecuador, working with cattle and dairy farmers. She holds a degree in sustainable agriculture and literature from Warren Wilson College in Asheville, NC, where she worked on the college farm; and a masters in non-profit management from The New School in New York, NY. She is currently working toward her accredited professional status with the Savory Institute. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/11/03/565-donna-kilpatrick/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, October 27, 2020
Pia Maffei on Exploring Clean Eating
Pia Maffei on Exploring Clean Eating. Teaching people to recognize clean, healthy food. In This Podcast: Most people perceive food as healthy based on popular buzz words and special labels such as grass-fed or non-GMO , yet, never questioning the source of ingredients. However, Pia Maffei says we should absolutely be asking ourselves this question. Listen in to learn about understanding clean eating, getting smart about deceptive marketing practices, and finding the right path towards living a healthy lifestyle by making the right food choices that work best for us. Pia used to think she was eating clean because she didn’t eat fast food or go to chain restaurants, she cooked mostly at home, ate beef about 3 times a year, and would only go out to eat at fine dining restaurants. In 2013, after a successful 25 years in technology, she opened a small, curated market called Artisan’s Palate in Temecula, California. It quickly attracted many local artisans who were making their products ‘fresh’ and ‘with love’. However, she soon realized they were using the same inexpensive ingredients commonly found in mass-produced processed foods, and they wanted to charge double the price. Just because they were making it from ‘scratch’ didn’t mean it was clean. From that day forward she started to scrutinize both the ingredients used and the processes that were implemented in the foods she carried at the market and began to work only with suppliers that were conscientious when sourcing ingredients and farming practices. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/10/27/564-pia-maffei/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library
Tue, October 20, 2020
Seed Saving Class September 2020
563: Seed Saving Class September 2020. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the September 2020 class discussing the importance of seed diversity, the value of farm direct seeds, building regional relationships, and so much more about seed adaptation. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/10/20/563-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, October 13, 2020
Benjamin Page on Interacting with The Earth
Benjamin Page on Interacting with The Earth. Building a relationship with your soil. In This Podcast: In today’s society, we as humans are provided with various ways to virtually connect with each other. However, Benjamin Page, recent author of two books, points out one key area humans lack a connection with: The Earth. Listen in to learn about the importance of building a relationship with earth, Ben’s definition of healthy soil, and why playing in the dirt can support overall human health and wellbeing. Benjamin is a chiropractic physician and avid urban gardener who works in the wellness paradigm. Going beyond spinal care, he uses a holistic approach as he helps his patients return to health by encouraging nutrition through chemical-free food grown in fertile soils, adequate rest, sufficient movement, and the development of proper internal dialogue. Benjamin is the author of The 4 Pillars of Health: Your Health and Well-being Made Simple , and Playing in the Dirt: The key to Sustainable Health . He is also the creator of The Wellness Farmer Podcast and Pastos verdes farm YouTube channel, where he shares his journey gardening in his little urban garden. To see show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/10/13/562-benjamin-page/
Tue, October 06, 2020
Frances Parsons on Farming, Fitness, and Finance
Frances Parsons on Farming, Fitness, and Finance. Helping a community find a healthy balance. In This Podcast: Food choices, fitness routines, and spending habits can be difficult to manage. However, Frances Parsons has discovered the importance of balancing these key areas and is on a mission to help others embrace those everyday challenges that will better support a healthy life. Listen in to learn about her inspiration behind forming her nonprofit organization, the correlation between health and finances, and how she is broadening horizons for her community at Spaces of Opportunity. Frances had a cosmetology license while being a flight attendant with a major airline. Her life was great – she traveled the world doing hair. Then she went to Australia to be with her brother who was dying of cancer during his final months and learned that food could keep you alive or kill you. Changing his diet extended his life a little and her crusade began to learn about healthy food. She moved to Arizona to open a hair salon and chatted with her clients about the importance of eating healthy. She began growing food in her backyard and selling to her neighbors. Connecting the dots of her farming with physical and financial health pushed her to start a nonprofit with a couple friends to teach people in her community how they can grow their own healthy food, be fit, and get financially smart! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/10/06/561-frances-parsons/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, September 29, 2020
Ben Kilbride on The Garden Guide and More
Ben Kilbride on The Garden Guide and More. Time-tested and trusted planting resources from the Old Farmer’s Almanac. In This Podcast: The Old Farmer’s Almanac has been used as a guide mainly by farmers to aid in predicting weather patterns. Ben Kilbride, who is the editorial assistant for the Old Farmer’s Almanac discusses the variety of publications and guides available to all types gardeners from novice to expert. Listen in to learn about the history of the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the prediction methods used, and the various gardening guides covering topics from growing techniques to battling pests. Benjamin is an editorial assistant with The Old Farmer’s Almanac. While he doesn’t own any land, he gets creative gardening every year in pots, in small mobile green houses, and under lights in his pantry. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/29/560-ben-kilbride/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, September 22, 2020
Seed Saving Class August 2020
559: Seed Saving Class August 2020. In This Podcast: At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman. This is the August 2020 class discussing various seed exchange resources, finding heirloom seeds, supporting organizations, and so much more on how to connect people to local seed sources. Bill McDorman is past Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/22/seed-saving-class-august-2020/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, September 15, 2020
Jason Johns on Saving Our Bees
Jason Johns on Saving Our Bees. Creating a relationship with tiny garden workers. In This Podcast: Bees are an essential worker in our agricultural ecosystems, yet their habitats are threatened everyday. Jason Johns is the author of several books, including his new book Save Our Bees, which shares valuable insights on how home gardeners can enhance bee populations. Listen in to learn about the importance of biodiversity, planting native flowers, urban impacts, and the inspiration behind Jason's new book. Jason is the author of Save Our Bees: Your guide to creating a bee friendly environment, as well as seventeen other gardening books on everything from greenhouse gardening to growing giant pumpkins. Jason is passionate about gardening, having grown his own produce for over twenty years. He started with a secondhand greenhouse and an 8’ by 6’ patch of his mother’s garden, and since then has worked his way through various allotments and gardens, growing everything from radishes to carrots to giant pumpkins. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/15/558-jason-johns/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, September 08, 2020
Kim Eierman on Pollinator Victory Gardens
Kim Eierman on Pollinator Victory Gardens. Calling bees, butterflies, and more to your landscape. There is a lot of focus on the importance of pollinators, yet there is still a concerning decline in populations. Kim Eierman, author of The Pollinator Victory Garden , specializes in environmental horticulture, and is encouraging gardeners to enhance pollinator pathways. Listen in to learn about the various types of pollinators, understanding native ecosystems, and how to connect your yard to a pollinator pathway. Kim is an Environmental Horticulturist specializing in ecological landscapes and native plants. She is the founder of EcoBeneficial LLC in New York. Kim teaches at the New York Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, The Native Plant Center in NY, Rutgers Home Gardeners School and several other institutions. She is an active speaker nationwide and also provides horticultural consulting to homeowners and commercial clients. In addition to being a Certified Horticulturist through the American Society for Horticultural Science, Kim is an Accredited Organic Land Care Professional, a Steering Committee member of The Native Plant Center, and a member of The Ecological Landscape Alliance and Garden Communicators International, and designs pollinator victory gardens for both home owners and commercial clients. Kim is the author of the new book, The Pollinator Victory Garden: Win the War on Pollinator Decline with Ecological Gardening . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/08/557-kim-eierman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Don't forget to check out Kim's blog article on Ten Tips for a Thriving Pollinator Victory Garden
Thu, September 03, 2020
Greg, Janis, Bill and Belle on Seed Up in a Box
Bringing bulk seed sharing to every community. In This Podcast: The Great American Seed Up is a project designed to improve resilience through local seed saving and sharing. With the events of 2020, seed sharing cannot be done in large events so Greg, Janis, Bill & Belle chat about a new way for neighbors and groups to share seeds through the Seed Up In a Box Program. Listen in to learn about how this new bulk seed shopping works, how anyone can participate, how the savings is shared, and ideas on ways to promote seed sharing with friends and family. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/03/556-seed-up-in-a-box/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! AND check out the article Eleven Ways to Share Seeds by Kari Spencer the fourth founder of Great American Seed Up. Greg, Janis, Bill and Belle on Seed Up in a Box.
Tue, September 01, 2020
Mykl Nelson on Healthy Urban Soil
Can there be too much organic matter in your garden?. Growing a healthy garden requires a good balance of healthy soil. Mykl Nelson had studied agriculture for several years and conducted soil analyses of multiple organic farms. What he discovered was a shocking truth about soil health. Listen in to learn about what is over-enrichment, acknowledging diverse soil conditions, and Mykl’s unbelievable solution that turns food waste back into high quality protein. Mykl grew up in a military family and has been stationed around the world. The longest he’s lived anywhere was six years in Colorado and six years in Oregon. His paternal grandparents were commodity farmers in Wyoming who ‘hoped their kids would be too smart to become farmers.’ Of their four children and nine grandchildren, Mykl is the only one in agriculture. Mykl is an instructor of urban agriculture at Oregon State University, and is pursuing research into controlled environment agriculture. He has clusters of houseplants from different biomes on his windows sills, worms in the garage, and he’s experimenting with insect protein production. It seems if there’s a living system to be emulated, Mykl is interested. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/09/01/555-mykl-nelson/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Mykl Nelson on Healthy Urban Soil.
Thu, August 27, 2020
Greg Peterson and Janis Norton on The 2020 Fruit Tree Program
An invitation to an online fruit tree education event. In This Podcast: It is that time of year for the upcoming annual Urban Farm fruit tree education launch. Greg Peterson and Janis Norton discuss the highlights of the Urban Farm fruit tree program and share an invitation to the first virtual kick-off event. Listen in to learn about when the live online event is hosted, where to sign up, special bundle deals, and and some quick tips on selecting the best fruit trees for your backyard. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/08/27/554-fruit-tree-program/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Greg Peterson and Janis Norton on The 2020 Fruit Tree Program.
Tue, August 25, 2020
553: Jason Johns on Berries and Brassicas
Jamming in the garden with healthy, tasty, fruits and vegetables. In This Podcast: Berries and brassicas come from two different plant families, and like many plants, they have some unique environmental requirements. Jason Johns has experimented in the garden and written books that share his secrets on how to bring these health-bearing edible plants to the back yard. Listen in to learn about growing berries and brassicas, the surprising facts about soil management for growing berries, and how to avoid unexpected pests in the garden. Jason is the author of Growing Brassicas and Berry Gardening , as well as many other gardening books hoping to inspire people to take up gardening themselves and successfully grow their own delicious fresh fruit and vegetables. Jason is passionate about gardening, having grown his own produce for over twenty years. He started with a secondhand greenhouse and an 8’ by 6’ patch of his mother’s garden, and since then has worked his way through various allotments and gardens, growing everything from radishes to carrots to giant pumpkins. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/08/25/553-jason-johns/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Jason Johns on Berries and Brassicas.
Tue, August 18, 2020
Seed Saving Class July 2020
552: Seed Saving Class July 2020. In This Podcast: This is the July 2020 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing the current status of world seeds, utility patents, community based seed systems, and so much more on building diversity and resilience back into the garden. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/08/18/552-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, August 11, 2020
Chloe Lieberman on Growing Calorie Crops
Chloe Lieberman on farming corn and other small-scale staple crops. In This Podcast: When one thinks of staple crops, what usually comes to mind is corn, wheat, and soybeans, yet Chloe Lieberman has worked with community farms around the world and discovered that there is an abundance of underutilized, calorie-dense types of crops. Listen in to learn about the value of staple crops, the processes of growing corn and wheat, and even learn how to make tortillas as Chloe shares the varieties of ancient grain corn that make the best tortillas. Chloe homesteads near Asheville, NC. She also writes and teaches for Wild Abundance, a school of permaculture, natural building, and homesteading that’s just down the road from Chloe’s farm. She and her partner raise dairy goats, ducks, a milk cow, vegetables, fruits, mushrooms, and herbs. One of Chloe’s great loves is growing staple crops: the kinds of plants that can be center stage during a meal. Along with growing food, Chloe is passionate about cooking and nutrition. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/08/11/551-chloe-lieberman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Chloe Lieberman on Growing Calorie Crops.
Tue, August 04, 2020
Josephine DeFalco on Growing Herbs for Health and Happiness.
Recognizing herbs for their many essential benefits. In This Podcast: Herbs can be the easiest plants to grow, at the same time, they can be the most expensive item in the produce section of the store. Josephine DeFalco became inspired to educate others on how to grow herbs and the many benefits that arise from herbs aside from enhancing culinary flare. Listen in to learn about the importance of herbs in the garden, the best ways to process herbs, and how they can be a great alternative to salt with a focus on the value of herbs that improve overall health and well-being. Retired nurse and living by the Hippocratic belief that food is our best medicine, Josephine’s present mission as a registered dietitian is to encourage everyone to grow their own organic, chemical-free food, and develop skills for food preservation. In this way she shares how we can all be responsible for our own families, our own health, and our own well-being. She is the author of two books on gardening and food preservation: The Best Little Herb Book and The Best Little Bread Book with Flint Hills Publishing. Josephine has had her own garden from the time she was five years old and has not stopped playing in the dirt since then. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/08/04/550-josephine-defalco/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Josephine DeFalco on Growing Herbs for Health and Happiness.
Tue, July 28, 2020
Seed Saving Class June 2020
549: Seed Saving Class June 2020. This is the June 2020 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing difficult seeds to save, avoiding cross pollination, and so much more on creating a self-reinforcing breeding system for seed families. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/07/28/549-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, July 21, 2020
Jeff Malkoon on the Origins of Peanut Butter.
Blending nutty flavors for healthy spread options. In This Podcast: When it comes to healthy food options, a common perception is that healthy doesn’t always taste good. After spending time in South America, Jeff Malkoon found inspiration to enter an untapped market and a mission to create all-natural spreads to cater to the health conscious while satisfying a sweet tooth. Listen in and learn about the origin of peanut butter and how it came to America. Then dive deeper into what inspired Jeff to form his own business blending some of the richest flavors without the guilt. It was obvious that Jeff had created an outstanding product when he completely sold out after attending his first farmers market. Jeff is the owner and developer of Peanut Butter Americano. The idea for this family owned business came about as Jeff was volunteering in Uruguay. He recognized that while peanuts grew abundantly in the area, people still preferred to consume sugary spreads such as dulce de leche. Inspired to find healthier alternatives, and after much trial and error back home in his mother's kitchen, 6 flavors of all-natural, low sugar, tasty spreads made their way to Arizona farmers markets. Today, alongside his sister Denise, PB Americano's mission is to provide delicious, nutritious and socially beneficial spreads. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/07/21/548-jeff-malkoon/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Jeff Malkoon on the Origins of Peanut Butter.
Tue, July 14, 2020
Shari Flam on Raw Cacao from Belize and Ecuador.
Supporting 4th generation farmers while making healthier chocolates. In This Podcast: We've all heard some of the benefits of chocolate, but Shari Flam is harnessing the medicinal benefits of cacao beans by using the fermented beans in her tasty treats. Listen in to learn about ethically sourcing cacao beans, the health benefits of eating raw cacao, the different processing methods, and some of the treats she makes using the unprocessed cacao beans. She also discusses the mineral and chemical components of chocolate and how it interacts with the nervous system. Shari began her endeavors in chocolate 15 years ago as a home-based business for family and friends. A dream finally blossomed 3 years ago with the start of communal Uprising chocolate driven by a passion to help the planet and spread awareness through the heart-opening benefits of the cacao. The treats are all free of white sugar, completely ethically and environmentally sound using no plastic and purchased through a South American Co-op. Communal Uprising chocolate works for them, they do not work for us, says Shari. We educate about the benefits of raw cacao and create a connection in our minds to positivity. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/07/14/547-shari-flam/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 547: Shari Flam on Raw Cacao from Belize and Ecuador.
Tue, July 07, 2020
Neal Bringe on Creating a New Squash.
Playing with seeds and making history. In This Podcast: When you treat your space like a nature sanctuary, sometimes you get botanical surprises! Neal Bringe teaches us about a new variety of Christmas Squash and the conditions he created to cross two varieties of squash to create this beautiful new vegetable that is pleasing to the eye and mouth. Also learn more about growing in Colorado, working with nature so your land comes alive, and allowing plants to go to seed so your garden regenerates itself each year! Neal is a dedicated listener we invited on the show after learning he has developed a beautiful new variety of squash. Having a PhD in Food Science, and active in his community and church in Elizabeth CO, Neal works with a mind to educate and provide for his family by creating gardens for produce and butterflies. His photos have earned him multiple awards, and it was by sharing photos of his recent squash crop that we are able to see just how cool it is to create new varieties in our own gardens. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/07/07/546-neal-bringe/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 546: Neal Bringe on Creating a New Squash.
Tue, June 30, 2020
Matt Provost on Student Farming.
Growing food and sharing it with a campus community. In This Podcast: College isn't always the time people choose healthy eating, but Matt Provost, the student farm manager for the University of Wisconsin Madison is bringing free fresh produce to the students on campus. Listen in to learn how they set up and fund the farm, support other campus programs, and educate others about farming. Matt also discusses some of the epic moments on the farm and how they adapt growing seasons to the school semesters. If only every college offered this experience! Matt is involved with a student organization called FH King Students for Sustainable Agriculture at the University of Wisconsin. He is one of two farm directors running the one-acre student farm on campus. They grow all sorts of vegetables, as well as fruit trees, berries, and hazelnuts. Every Friday during the growing season they harvest produce in the morning then truck it back to campus, set up a farm stand, and give the harvest to the student community for free. Matt is studying Landscape Architecture and very interested in permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and enhancing local food systems. He wants to work at the intersection of eco-restoration & agriculture and believes we can feed ourselves healthier food while providing habitat for all of the creatures that we share the land with. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/06/30/545-matt-provost/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 545: Matt Provost on Student Farming.
Tue, June 23, 2020
Seed Saving Class May 2020
544: Seed Saving Class May 2020. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the May 2020 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing seed hoarding, providing seeds to a community in times of need, and so much more about growing and creating seed resilience. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/06/23/544-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Tue, June 16, 2020
Audrey Barron on Food and Herbs for Health.
Learning how to use food and herbs as medicine. In This Podcast: From her clean food restaurant to her urban farm, Audrey Barron is helping people feel better. Listen in to learn about her journey as a holistic health chef, her philosophy on eating trends, various diets, and how to heal through food. On top of running her restaurant, she also farms her own urban farm using permaculture practices, composting, and involving the community. Audrey shares her knowledge of farming and cooking in her new Medicine Woman program on healing foods. Audrey is the creator and owner of Ezra’s Enlightened Café, in Indianapolis, established in 2014 with a focus on plant-based and gluten-free fare made with non-GMO and organic ingredients. Chef Audrey began her journey toward healing in her early 20’s when she was experiencing some significant health issues and was inspired by a family member to try plant-based eating. Eventually opening Ezra’s Enlightenment Café, she is bringing her experience and training into every aspect -- from classes and programs to menu items and retail herbs. Audrey has been passionate about herbalism as well. Over the past decade, she trained with herbalists such as Susan Weed, Ron Teeguarden of Dragon Herbs, and Rosita Arvigo. Audrey is excited to bring her past decade of personal healing, herbalism training, expertise in making healing food, and the love of growing food in a way that nourishes the land. This extends to her newest offering, the Medicine Woman Membership where women are learning to use plants to heal, thrive, and take care of themselves and their families. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/06/16/543-audrey-barron/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 543: Audrey Barron on Food and Herbs for Health.
Tue, June 09, 2020
Paul Lightfoot on Local is the New Organic.
Bringing awareness to the value of local food systems. In This Podcast: Picture buying salad greens at the grocery store that were just picked the day before. Paul Lightfoot from BrightFarms is making this happen in the stores around their farm. Passionate about getting fresh food to more people, Paul discusses the benefits of local vs organic food, how shortening the supply chain provides fresher, safer food, and the nutritional value decline. Listen in to hear about the setup and safety protocols at BrightFarms so they ensure healthy, safe food. Paul is BrightFarms’ founder and president and leads the company on its mission to provide consumers with the freshest, tastiest, and most responsibly grown produce. Through his vision, BrightFarms is creating the first national brand of locally grown produce. In 2017, BrightFarms was named 235th on the Inc. 500 list of fastest-growing private companies, ranking 10th among all food companies and the only produce company featured on the list. Paul is a member of the board of United Fresh Produce Association. They believe Local, indoor produce is fresher because it’s grown closer to where it’s sold. It is cleaner because it can be grown without pesticides. And most importantly, it tastes better. BrightFarms is the No. 1 brand of locally grown packaged salads, serving the freshest, tastiest and most responsibly grown produce to consumers nationwide. BrightFarms operates hydroponic greenhouse farms in the communities it serves, enabling them to eliminate time, distance, and costs from the food supply chain. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/06/09/542-paul-lightfoot/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 542: Paul Lightfoot on Local is the New Organic.
Tue, June 02, 2020
Trevor Williams on Farming Podcasts.
Bridging the gap between farmers and consumers. In This Podcast: Want more info on what it takes to be a farmer? Trevor Williams of the Farm Traveler Podcast interviews farmers about their day to day life and processes. Listen in to learn about becoming educated on where your food comes from, some of Trevor's epic guests, and some of the innovative things people are doing in the farming industry. He also shares what it's like to single-handedly produce a podcast and his goals and vision for the future of his show. Trevor is a former High School Agriscience teacher now software analyst and host of the podcast Farm Traveler. He graduated with a major in Agricultural Education and Communication and a minor in Environmental Horticulture from the University of Florida and is a former Florida Future Farmers of America State Officer. Trevor taught agriscience classes for two years in Daytona Beach, FL and helped direct a career academy focused on Horticulture and Aquaculture. After two years he moved closer to home and, in order to stay involved in agriculture while working as a software analyst, he started Farm Traveler in 2016 with the motivation and editorial expertise of his wife Allie. As host and producer of the Farm Traveler Podcast, he pretty much does it all to make it work. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/06/02/541-trevor-williams/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 541: Trevor Williams on Farming Podcasts.
Tue, May 26, 2020
Brad Lancaster on Planting the Rain.
Teaching about the personal and community benefits of harvesting rainwater. In This Podcast: Returning guest, Brad Lancaster, recently taught us about Harvesting the Rain and is back to teach about Planting the Rain. If you've ever considered capturing rainwater directly in your landscape, this episode will teach you about rainwater planting methods and strategies, how captured water impacts thermoregulation, and water as a lubricant for exchange. Get inspired by a village in India that changed their water planting culture and learn how to create healthier soil. Brad runs a successful permaculture consulting, design, and education business in Tucson, Arizona. He is focused on integrated and sustainable approaches to landscape design, planning, and living. Growing up in a dryland environment, water harvesting has long been one of his specialties and a true passion. He is the author of the permaculture bible for water harvesting: Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond Volumes I & II and he has just released new full color revised and expanded editions of both. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/05/26/540-brad-lancaster/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 540: Brad Lancaster on Planting the Rain.
Tue, May 19, 2020
Bryan Kappa on ChipDrop.
Bringing green waste to your driveway. In This Podcast: Organic matter builds soil, and Bryan Kappa has a free service that allows nationwide users to quickly build the quality of their soil. Learn about ChipDrop, the program that connects gardeners with tree companies and benefits everyone. Not all mulch is created equal, and you'll learn the difference in mulch options, how to properly wood chip your yard and improve your soil Ph. There are some exciting improvements coming to ChipDrop, as well as creative ways to use it! Bryan is a Portland native who combined his love of trees and technology into the ChipDrop web service. While hauling brush for a local tree company he realized the potential cost savings of delivering the freshly chipped trees to neighbors and homeowners, as opposed to driving long distances to the dump (and paying their fees). He also knew that people loved free things. Bryan has a history of creating life hacks to combine urban living with environmental sustainability. In 2014 he was granted permission by the Portland Water Bureau to keep 2 goats and a pig on a small lot in North Portland to help clear brush and Ivy without the use of pesticides. He and his roommates kept a composting toilet in his residential North Portland home, only a mile from downtown. In his spare time, he serves on the board as a technical lead for Cascadia Wild, helping build and maintain their database of images of rare and threatened species in the Pacific Northwest wilderness. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/05/19/539-bryan-kappa/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 539: Bryan Kappa on ChipDrop.
Tue, May 12, 2020
Erin Douglas on Sustainable Farming in Ghana.
Supporting a teaching farm in Africa. In This Podcast: Some people know their mission from a young age. Others, like Erin Douglas, find their direction as they go. With a desire to travel as her guide, Erin left her corporate job and traveled through Africa. An epic moment in Ghana inspired this novice farmer to create a non-profit farm that feeds residents, provides jobs, funds education, and supports an orphanage. Erin shares how she created a sustainable community model that could benefit societies all over the world. Erin is the founder of US non-profit Learn Grow Lead and helped birth a sustainable farm project in Ghana, Africa to support the local community. The Helper’s Farm, is an organic, community teaching farm that works in partnership with local agriculture school programs to encourage farmers to farm naturally, without the use of pesticides, transitioning farms in the surrounding communities to a healthier environment and a healthier food system. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/05/12/538-erin-douglas/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 538: Erin Douglas on Sustainable Farming in Ghana.
Tue, May 05, 2020
Robert Pavlis on Garden Soil Myths.
Clearing up illusions about the substances we use to grow our food. In This Podcast: We've all bought plant-specific fertilizer or used leaves to diagnose what additives we need for our plants. But according to Robert Pavlis, building great soil needs a different approach. After all, how can you know what to add if you don't know what's already there? Listen in for common soil and fertilizer myths, the easy additive that fixes anything over time, your ideal soil ratios, and how to distinguish fact from urban legend. You'll never think the same about fertilizer! Robert is a well-known speaker and educator with over 40 years of gardening experience. He is the author of three books, Building Natural Ponds, Garden Myths, and Soil Science for Gardeners and publishes the popular gardening blogs; GardenMyths.com and GardenFundamentals.com. As the owner and head gardener of Aspen Grove Gardens, a six-acre botanical garden, he grows 3,000 varieties of plants. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/05/05/537-robert-pavlis/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 537: Robert Pavlis on Garden Soil Myths.
Tue, April 28, 2020
Chris McLaughlin on Raising Animals for Fiber.
Farming for yarn and more. In This Podcast: Not all farmers produce food. Some farm flowers, plants, or seeds. Others use their animal herd to produce fiber crops for yarn and textiles. Chris McLaughlin is a fiber farmer and educator who shares all about the fascinating world of raising goats, sheep, rabbits, and alpacas for their fibrous coats. Listen in to learn about angora, cashmere, and all the products from animal fibers. Then, gain insight into the fiber farming business, breed conservation, and spinning yarn. Chris is the author of eight books written about her life passions: gardening, small livestock, and the family farm. Her work can be found in Fine Gardening Magazine, Hobby Farm Home Magazine, Urban Farm Magazine, and more. Online, she's been a staff blogger for vegetablegardener.com, About.com, and many more websites. Chris is currently secretary of The Colored Angora Goat Breeders Association. She and her family enjoy an entertaining, and exhausting life in the Northern California foothills on their flower and fiber farm, Laughing Crow & Company. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/04/28/536-chris-mclaughlin/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 536: Chris McLaughlin on Raising Animals for Fiber.
Tue, April 21, 2020
John Moody on Weed Suppression.
Controlling unwanted volunteers in our farms and gardens. In This Podcast: Could weeds be friends? In some cases, John Moody thinks they are! John shares some of the knowledge from his book and experience on his homestead to help you determine what are beneficial weeds in the right area of your garden. Listen in to learn about using weeds as an understory to benefit plants, designing your growing space to minimize weeds, when to utilize their benefits, or how to safely remove them. If you've ever seen a weed in your yard, this is an episode for you! John does not consider himself a typical farmer. Farming and homesteading were not something he ever planned to do. Growing up, he enjoyed a varied diet of video games, cartoons, and processed foods. Dental decay, seasonal allergies, and constant sickness were the inevitable result – one that doctors denied was connected to food and lifestyle choices. In his early 20s, he was waylaid by duodenal ulcers, his body’s warning that some things were dreadfully awry. Over the course of a year, he and his now wife Jessica completely changed their understanding of food, asking – what is food? How should it be raised? and How should it be prepared? This eventually led to moving out to a farm of their own, and writing several books including The Frugal Homesteader Handbook, The Elderberry Book, and Winning the War Against Weeds. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/04/21/535-john-moody/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 535: John Moody on Weed Suppression.
Tue, April 14, 2020
Catherine Crowley on Her Favorite Herbs.
Growing most anything you want to in a Desert Garden. In This Podcast: Herbs are a wonderful way to begin gardening and get a lot of bang for your buck! Catherine Crowley, or "The Herb Lady" as many people know her, shares some of her favorite, unique plants to grow and how she uses them. This episode will help you plan your garden like an experienced gardener. Catherine highlights her experiences and thoughts about sun orientation, plant height, light needs, and other considerations so your plants and herbs will thrive! Catherine "The Herb Lady", is an expert in edible landscaping in the desert, an author, and a lecturer. She has been gardening for over 3 decades, initially focusing on just culinary herbs. Then her garden journey expanded to growing anything she ate or drank as a base for experimenting with new-to-her and common edible herbs, vegetables, fruits, and flowers. These days Catherine blogs and writes on gardening and cooking with the garden bounty she harvests from her garden and community. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/04/14/534-catherine-crowley/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 534: Catherine Crowley on Her Favorite Herbs.
Tue, April 07, 2020
Amanda Fallis on Market Life.
Building community and local food resilience through a Farmers Market. In This Podcast: Have you ever thought about selling at a Farmers Market, but the whole process seemed intimidating? We spoke with Amanda Fallis, assistant manager of the Vernon Farmers Market to understand what it takes to get started selling at a market. Learn about the certifications, insurance, how the vendors pay for their place in the market, and the community markets build. You'll quickly realize it's not as hard as it seems and after the initial set up all you have to do is have fun. Amanda grew up doing home renovation with her father. She did a quick stint as a mechanic right out of high school before returning to renovations. She moved to British Columbia from Toronto at age twenty-five and started embracing simpler living which included Market Life. One thing led to another and since May 2019, she has been the Assistant Manager to The Vernon Farmers Market in Vernon, BC. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/04/07/533-amanda-fallis/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 533: Amanda Fallis on Market Life.
Tue, March 31, 2020
Lindsay Allen on Rooftop Farming.
Growing food on top of a hospital. Lindsay is a farmer and educator, from Boston, Massachusetts. She has been farming for the past 10 years and managed farms in both rural and suburban locations around and outside the United States. She currently works with Higher Ground Farm as the Operations Director, and as the Farm Manager of the 7,000 square foot Rooftop Farm at Boston Medical Center. A strong ethic towards food justice, climate change mitigation and a passion for getting creative in how we grow and distribute food in our urban landscapes brought Lindsay to work with Higher Ground Farm. Outside of the direct farming working she is a certified Permaculture Designer and Educator and teaches courses a few times a year on the subject. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Agroforestry. When Lindsay is not teaching or growing food, she can be found happily experimenting with fermentations, communing with chickens, spending time outdoors, crafting, or sharing a good home-cooked meal with family and friends. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/31/532-lindsay-allen/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 532: Lindsay Allen on Rooftop Farming.
Tue, March 24, 2020
J. Brown on Yoga’s Evolution.
Watching the world of yoga change from underground to mainstream. In This Podcast: Many of our listeners find inner peace in their gardens but after this interview with J. Brown, you may find yourself wanting to explore the therapeutic nature of yoga. Not all yoga involves the complicated pretzel twists that have become popular images in social media. In fact, simple movements can have a profound impact on feeling good. Here, we discuss yoga's evolution, benefits, finding the right teacher, and its deeper purpose that leads to enlightenment. J. is a yoga teacher, writer, and podcaster. He is at the forefront of a quiet yoga revolution based in healing, that seeks to change the dialogue and direction of yoga practice in the west. His writing has been featured in Yoga Therapy Today, The International Journal of Yoga Therapy, and across the yoga blogosphere. His podcast J Brown Yoga Talks is internationally renowned for raising the level of conversation. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/24/531-j-brown/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 531: J. Brown on Yoga’s Evolution.
Sat, March 21, 2020
The Urban Farm's Response to COVID-19.
Addressing the significant conversations happening in the world. In This Podcast: The world is changing almost daily around us. With change comes new needs, focuses, and learning. Urban Farm's Proprietor Greg Peterson and General Manager Janis Norton, discuss how The Urban Farm is adapting their programs to better support their listeners and community. This means changes to the podcast, but also new educational opportunities that will help everybody build their food resilience. Listen in to learn about past podcasts and our new daily classes that will help you start your food journey. Greg Peterson is the Proprietor of The Urban Farm and Host of The Urban Farm Podcast. He is a green living and sustainability innovator who is well-known regionally. His mission is inspire people to embrace their own greenness, which he does daily by living what he speaks. Janis is the General Manager and Podcast Producer for The Urban Farm. Her passion to make The Urban Farm a truly valued resource for our listeners, readers, and in-person participants is obvious in all that she does. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/21/530-changes/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 530: The Urban Farm's Response to COVID-19.
Tue, March 17, 2020
Seed Saving Class February 2020
529: Seed Saving Class February 2020. In This Podcast: You don't want to miss the February 2020 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing how to start plants from seed with special guest Kari Spencer. Listen in for methods of starting seeds, things to consider, and the number one reason seeds don't sprout. Greg, Bill, and Kari share some of their tips and tricks as well as answer listener questions about specific plant seeds. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Kari Spencer is a popular local gardening & homesteading speaker. As a Master Gardener and a Master Farmer, she enjoys sharing her passion for growing and raising food with others. In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is the creator of Urban Farm U’s Growing Food the Basics & Backyard Livestock courses. She and her family operate The Micro Farm Project, a small farm in North Phoenix, where gardens and livestock animals provide her family with fun and food. Her book is City Farming: How-To Guide to Growing Crops & Raising Livestock in Urban Spaces. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/17/529-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Sat, March 14, 2020
Jane Rabinowicz on Global Seed Work.
Transforming the food systems of the world through good seeds and sustainable practices. In This Podcast: Did you know that seeds help communities rebuild after a crisis? Here, we speak with Jane Rabinowicz about her work with the Canadian organization SeedChange. Their support for grassroots projects, farmers across the world, and global seed policy impact everyone worldwide. Listen in for how the organization began, how they protect seed diversity and work with local agriculture to preserve endangered plant varieties through seed saving. Jane was appointed as an Executive Director of SeedChange in 2016, after joining the organization in 2011. Jane has dedicated her career to community-led change. She is co-founder of the Silver Dollar Foundation and serves on the Board of Directors of Tides Canada. Jane was named one of the 53 most influential people in Canada’s food system by The Globe and Mail, and one of Canada’s leading women changing the way we eat by Châtelaine Magazine. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/14/528-jane-rabinowicz/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 528: Jane Rabinowicz on Global Seed Work.
Tue, March 10, 2020
Ray Speakman about Farming Instead of Retiring.
Starting an urban farm to keep young the later years. In This Podcast: Have you ever wished for more gardening space? So did Ray Speakman when he took early retirement. But instead of just wishing, he recruited neighbors for their land and made his farming dreams a reality! Listen in to learn how he went from 1 garden bed to a half-acre of productive land and started a neighborhood CSA and weekend produce stand. Ray shares what it was like becoming a farmer in retirement, abundant food production in smaller spaces, and making it happen. Ray has always been an entrepreneur at heart with a drive to affect the lives of others for the better. He grew up on a chicken farm in Cottonwood, Arizona with 5000 chickens, as well as cows, horses, and large gardens. After moving to Mesa with his parents in the mid 1960’s, he married his wonderful wife. After a series of different businesses and 8 children, he ended up working for an international plant nutrition manufacturing company as their VP of Marketing. It was there that he fell in love with agriculture and the effect it has on individual lives and mother earth. In June of 2017, with a neighbor and prolific gardener, Ray started an urban farm in the middle of Mesa. His family, friends and area neighborhoods are enjoying the farm as they have watched it grow and enjoy the benefits of eating the delightfully delicious and healthy food. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/10/527-ray-speakman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 527: Ray Speakman about Farming Instead of Retiring
Sat, March 07, 2020
Darren Chapman on Inner City Urban Farming.
Moving mountains by changing one mind and one attitude at a time. In This Podcast: Sustaining a community garden that is successful for over 10 years is not an easy endeavor. In this update from repeat podcast guest, Darren Chapman, we gain insight into the organizational growth of a community garden, how they stay relevant, and continue to serve the needs of the community. Listen in for some of the challenges in the neighborhoods surrounding the community garden and how TigerMountain addresses and heals some of those disparities. Darren is a community pro-activist who has committed his life to helping people. He is Founder and CEO of TigerMountain Foundation, which has implemented Empowerment Initiatives to uplift communities and eliminate blight. TigerMountain’s initiatives include community gardens; edible landscape development; audio, visual and performance art; plus community service and volunteerism. The gardens promote healthy living and active lifestyles by feeding, engaging and enfranchising the community. TigerMountain’s Asset Based Community Development model was developed with the thought that everyone can and should be connected and feel a part of society. The endgame strategy is urban renewal and community restoration via participants who are encouraged to stay engaged and motivated to keep positive and develop their individual very important assets. Their motto is to change one mind and attitude at a time, encouraging all who have been touched to pay it forward, which will undoubtedly make the immediate and surrounding community and world a better place to live. He is from South Central Los Angeles and grew up in L.A. and Phoenix. He currently resides and works in South Phoenix and the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/07/526-darren-chapman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 526: Darren Chapman on Inner City Urban Farming.
Tue, March 03, 2020
David Chan on Regenerative Agriculture.
Seeking climate change solutions through sustainable farming investments. In This Podcast: Want a way to combat climate change and make a good financial investment? David Chan explains the social and financial benefits of agricultural real estate investing. The FarmTogether system brings farm families together with investors for a stronger countrywide self-sufficient food system. He also explains the organic agriculture value chain, how regenerative agriculture processes builds soil health, the Patagonia competition, and the TerraTone Challenge. David is the Co-Founder and COO of FarmTogether, and he has spent several years working in the organic agriculture value chain. Before forming FarmTogether, David was a senior private equity associate at AMERRA Capital Management, where he worked closely with one of the fund's portfolio companies having a focus on supply chains in sustainable agriculture and serving the US organic grains market. David also worked with SLM Partners, PGIM Ag Equity Investments, and was a finalist in Patagonia's first graduate case competition on scaling regenerative agriculture. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/03/03/525-david-chan/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 525: David Chan on Regenerative Agriculture.
Sat, February 29, 2020
Neil Werde on Recognizing Quality Dog Treats.
Breaking the mold on traditional canine snacks. In This Podcast: As gardeners, we think of our health and the food we put in our bodies but have you thought much about what you feed your pets? Treats should benefit your dog's health as well as taste good. We talked canine healthy treats with Neil Werde and got the inside scoop on the best ingredients and processing method for a quality dog treat. Neil dove into some of the findings around Raw and Mediterranean diets for your furry friends as well as pet toys that keep your children safe too. Neil has over 40 years of experience creating and marketing consumer products including children’s toys at Tyco and Mattel, pop culture & music at Rhino Records, and for the past 18 years durable toy products in the pet industry. He has delighted parents, children, and our four-legged friends with thoughtful and innovative products and solutions. Neil co-founded the Quaker Pet Group, and in 2015 they merged into pet industry innovator Worldwise, Inc, where his product development team has been focused on bringing healthy treats to our canine friends. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/29/524-neil-werde/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 524: Neil Werde on Recognizing Quality Dog Treats.
Tue, February 25, 2020
DaNelle Wolford on Making More with Goats.
Maximizing farm production with a little help from some four-legged friends. In This Podcast: Even if you live in a city, this podcast with DaNelle Wolford will have you checking your zoning regulations on backyard goats and pigs! Listen in to learn why she loves raising Nigerian Dwarf goats, all about their milk, and why it digests better than cow's milk. She shares all about animal care, breeding goats, milk production, and how they maximize all the functions of their farm animals. You'll be searching her videos for more about her cool setup before the podcast is over! DaNelle is an urban farmer & goat enthusiast located in Phoenix, Arizona. She runs a popular blog & YouTube channel called Weed 'em & Reap that boasts over 100 million views. She started to take an interest in a healthier lifestyle after being diagnosed with two debilitating chronic diseases. On a mission to create a farm of her own, she & her husband purchased an acre of land in the city and transformed it into their very own urban farm. Together with their two children, they milk goats, gather eggs from their chickens, tend to a large garden, and raise fish in Arizona's first naturally filtered swimming pond. They share their hilarious farm adventures on their YouTube channel with over 400,000 subscribers and are passionate about inspiring others to grow food and raise animals, no matter the size of their yard. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/25/523-danelle-wolford/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 523: DaNelle Wolford on Making More with Goats.
Sat, February 22, 2020
Karen Hugg on The Forgetting Flower.
Agriculturally inspired fiction with the power of a plant’s fragrance is steeped in mystery and danger. In This Podcast: Plants inspire most of our listeners, but Karen Hugg used her horticultural inspiration to create mystery novels that capture the magic and possibilities of new plant varieties. Exciting storylines entwine with Karen's passion for plants as she talks about getting published and why she left the tech world to start a gardening business. Listen in to learn about her gardening experience, what she loves to grow, and how she uses that to inspire her characters. Karen is the author of The Forgetting Flower, a literary thriller about a dangerous plant in Paris. Most of Karen’s stories are set in worlds where plants, real or imagined, affect people in strange new ways. Born and raised in Chicago, she later moved to Seattle and worked as an editor before becoming a certified ornamental horticulturalist and master pruner. She earned her MFA from Goddard College and has been published in the Rooted anthology, Minerva Rising, Garden Rant, and other publications. When not writing, she digs in the dirt. When not digging in the dirt, she hangs out with her husband, three children, and four pets. When not doing any of those things, she sits outside and stares at the sky. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/22/522-karen-hugg/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 522: Karen Hugg on The Forgetting Flower.
Tue, February 18, 2020
Seed Saving Class January 2020.
521: Seed Saving Class January 2020. This is the January 2020 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing seed catalogs, sourcing local seeds, building community, seed diversity, and so much more. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/18/521-seedchat/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Sat, February 15, 2020
Quilen Blackwell on Urban Flower Farms.
Encouraging youth to bloom through off-grid farming on vacant lots. In This Podcast: We usually speak with food farmers, however, Quilen Blackwell is doing something so amazing with flower farming we needed to get him on the show! Learn why he chose to farm flowers over food, got community buy-in, and how he eliminated much of the overhead cost of a farm by working with nature (even in the middle of a big city). The flowers are a product of his true passion, which is teaching skills to at-risk youth and giving them job skills to better their future. Quilen’s background in renewable energy and community organizing is well suited in his role as president of Southside Blooms where they serve over 70 youth a week at four sites in Chicago and one site in Detroit. Southside Blooms has the mission of using sustainability to alleviate inner-city poverty through a scalable social enterprise program that converts vacant city lots into off-grid flower farms. Quilen’s organizing credentials include work abroad as a volunteer in the Peace Corp organizing rural farmers in Thailand all the way to helping working-class residents of suburban Milwaukee attain affordable housing. He later worked in the biofuels industry where he procured feedstock such as used cooking oil and soybean oil for biodiesel production. Quilen holds a bachelor’s degree with comprehensive honors from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master’s degree in environmental policy from the University of Denver. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/15/520-quilen-blackwell/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 520: Quilen Blackwell on Urban Flower Farms.
Tue, February 11, 2020
Melissa Norris on Feeding A Family
Growing enough food to provide for a family of four all year. In This Podcast: If you had to exist just from the food in your yard, what would you be eating? Melissa Norris would have very few lifestyle changes. She is a professional homesteader who grows and preserves enough fruits, vegetables, and meat on her property to feed her family all year long. Here, she discusses what's growing in her garden, season extending for longer harvests, planning for a year's worth of food, the amount of space it takes to feed a family of four, and her new book. Melissa is a 5th generation homesteader and believes everyone can and should grow some of their own food. She’s the host of the Pioneering Today Podcast and founder of the Pioneering Today Academy where she teaches people how to live a homegrown and homemade life in a modern world. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/11/519-melissa-norris/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 519: Melissa Norris on Feeding A Family.
Sat, February 08, 2020
David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 3
Balancing the larger world context with local, practical, and creative solutions. In This Podcast: In the final part of our interview with David Holmgren, the co-founder of permaculture talks soil, owning your mistakes, and balancing food production in limited spaces. He also shares what it’s like to live a voluntarily simplistic life, and how children absorb knowledge just by being around parents in agriculture. Listen in for some of his failures and successes, as well as what drives him and his advice for others. We are very excited to have the co-founder of permaculture on the show today. When I got David on the call I just let him talk and it turned into a 90-minute chat, so we decided to split it into three shows. This is part 3 and if you enjoy our content please consider supporting the podcast at UrbanFarmPodcast.org Since developing permaculture with Bill Mollison in the mid-1970s, David’s local and global influence has gone beyond permaculture networks. He is a public intellectual working outside of academia, government or corporate support. His depth of thinking, design practice and teaching has been continually informed by practical experience through a lifetime of household self-reliance, voluntary simplicity, and innovative action. He has received many awards including an honorary Ph.D. from Central Queensland University. He has written 8 books about permaculture & related topics, been a part of at least 5 other books, written multiple articles, given numerous presentations, has over 40 years of practical experience, he is an authority on the permaculture concept and how to make it work and basically – he is the guy who penned it! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/08/518-david-holmgren/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 518: David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 3
Thu, February 06, 2020
David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 2
Balancing the larger world context with local, practical, and creative solutions. In This Podcast: In part 2 of 3 we hear from David Holmgren, the co-founder of permaculture, about his definition of permaculture, soil conservation and regenerative practices, creating civilization systems that can withstand the test of time, and creative reuse of resources instead of recycling or composting. Learn about David’s new book: Retrosuburbia and how to rebuild economies, habits, and biological landscapes on a household level. We are very excited to have the co-founder of permaculture on the show today. When I got David on the call I just let him talk and it turned into a 90-minute chat, so we decided to split it into three shows. This is part 2 and if you enjoy our content please consider supporting the podcast at UrbanFarmPodcast.org Since developing permaculture with Bill Mollison in the mid-1970s, David’s local and global influence has gone beyond permaculture networks. He is a public intellectual working outside of academia, government or corporate support. His depth of thinking, design practice and teaching has been continually informed by practical experience through a lifetime of household self-reliance, voluntary simplicity, and innovative action. He has received many awards including an honorary Ph.D. from Central Queensland University. He has written 8 books about permaculture & related topics, been a part of at least 5 other books, written multiple articles, given numerous presentations, has over 40 years of practical experience, he is an authority on the permaculture concept and how to make it work and basically – he is the guy who penned it! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/06/517-david-holmgren/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 517: David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 2
Tue, February 04, 2020
David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 1
Balancing the larger world context with local, practical, and creative solutions. In This Podcast: In part 1 of 3 we hear from David Holmgren, the co-founder of permaculture, about the birth of permaculture over 40 years ago. Learn about what inspired the concept of permaculture, permanent agriculture, working with nature, sustainability, and how to take new industry concepts and have them become widely accepted. David also discusses what it's like when your theory takes on a life of its own and the balance of being both a fan and critic. We are very excited to have the co-founder of permaculture on the show today. When I got David on the call I just let him talk and it turned into a 90-minute chat, so we decided to split it into three shows. This is part 1 and if you enjoy our content please consider supporting the podcast at UrbanFarmPodcast.org Since developing permaculture with Bill Mollison in the mid-1970s, David’s local and global influence has gone beyond permaculture networks. He is a public intellectual working outside of academia, government or corporate support. His depth of thinking, design practice and teaching has been continually informed by practical experience through a lifetime of household self-reliance, voluntary simplicity, and innovative action. He has received many awards including an honorary Ph.D. from Central Queensland University. He has written 8 books about permaculture & related topics, been a part of at least 5 other books, written multiple articles, given numerous presentations, has over 40 years of practical experience, he is an authority on the permaculture concept and how to make it work and basically – he is the guy who penned it! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/04/516-david-holmgren/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 516: David Holmgren on Downshifting to a Resilient Future. Part 1
Sat, February 01, 2020
Kerry Smith on Harvest for Health.
Mentoring cancer survivors through backyard vegetable gardens. In This Podcast: Anyone who gardens knows the benefits, but Kerry Smith is proving it with her Harvest for Health program for cancer survivors. This experiment partners the Alabama Master Gardeners with Auburn University to track improvements in physical activity, diet, and stress markers for people who beat cancer. In addition to teaching them gardening basics and healthy food habits, they spread the love for plants through volunteers who are motivated by heartwarming experiences. Kerry is the Home Grounds team Co-leader in the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Working with team members she develops, supports and delivers programs that inspire smart yards for home landscapes. She is also the State Program Coordinator for the Alabama Master Gardener Program, a large volunteer group assisting the same mission of promoting sustainable, smart yard landscapes. Kerry has worked for the Education Department at Callaway Gardens, been a schoolteacher, an estate gardener, and many things in between. Her current priority for the Master Gardener program is Harvest for Health, a 5-year garden mentor project in partnership with the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Comprehensive Cancer Center and funded in part by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Through this project, Master Gardeners mentor cancer survivors learning to grow a backyard vegetable garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/02/01/515-kerry-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 515: Kerry Smith on Harvest for Health.
Tue, January 28, 2020
Brad Lancaster about Harvesting the Rain.
Maximizing the benefit of rainwater for both personal and community use. In This Podcast: Have you ever considered capturing free water for your landscape? Brad Lancaster has pioneered rainwater harvesting in Tucson, AZ and around the world. He teaches how to reinvest rainwater into living systems that grow resources all for the cost of shoveling some dirt. Learn about rain gardens, zoning, benefits of rainwater, adjusting your mentality, developing your strategy, and integrating sun, shade, and gravity into your design. You'll never look at your yard the same way! Brad runs a successful permaculture consulting, design, and education business in Tucson, Arizona. He is focused on integrated and sustainable approaches to landscape design, planning, and living. Growing up in a dryland environment, water harvesting has long been one of his specialties and a true passion. He is the author of the permaculture bible for water harvesting: Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond Volumes I & II and he has just released new full color revised and expanded editions of both. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/28/514-brad-lancaster/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 514: Brad Lancaster about Harvesting the Rain.
Sat, January 25, 2020
April Bradham about Moving Produce through Food Banks.
Getting fruit and vegetables into and through a network of community support services. In This Podcast: We know our food system is broken, however, the food bank system is surprisingly effective! April Bradham from the Arizona Food Bank Network explains how local, state and national food banks distribute huge amounts of fresh produce and food within days. Listen in to learn where the surplus food and food waste comes from, how they work to spread healthy food to people in need, and the new Arizona initiative that is helping both small and mid-size farms as well as the food banks. April is Vice President for Programs, of the Arizona Food Bank Network and oversees the Member Services and Innovation programs. April holds a B.S. in Business Administration from The Sage Colleges in New York, and an M.B.A. from Arizona State University. She has worked in operations and supply chain for over 17 years in a variety of industries. April and her team offer food banks - logistics and transportation support, plus they coordinate the “Southwest Produce Cooperative,” which was started to help with the sharing of produce between food banks in AZ, NM, and TX. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/25/513-april-bradham/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 513: April Bradham about Moving Produce through Food Banks.
Tue, January 21, 2020
Seed Saving Class December 2019.
A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Podcast: This is the December 2019 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing seed catalog season, the best seed catalogs, what the terminology in the catalogs mean, and so much more. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/21/seedchat19dec/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library! 512: Seed Saving Class December 2019.
Sat, January 18, 2020
Angela Judd on Inspiring Gardeners to Grow.
Sharing good gardening information with others. In This Podcast: Gardening in a new climate can pose challenges; however, Angela Judd did not let it stop her from becoming an inspirational gardener who regularly contributes to area publications. She reviews the classes and resources she used to take her from novice to knowledgable, and some of the things that make her hot climate garden successful in providing food for her family and friends. Planting times, soil, involving your kids, and trial and error are all part of her success story. Angela is an avid vegetable, flower, and fruit tree gardener. As a mother of five, she enjoys growing and preparing food from the garden for her family. She shares inspiration and tips on her blog GrowingInTheGarden.com and other social channels to help home gardeners successfully grow their own garden. As a certified Master Gardener, Angela has been featured in Phoenix Home & Garden, San Diego Home/Garden, Edible Phoenix, Family Fun, Burpee.com, and is a regular contributor to Master Gardener publications. Her articles and videos are can be found in several well-known online publications including Better Homes & Gardens, Gardeners.com, and GardeningKnowHow.com. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/18/512-angela-judd/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 511: Angela Judd on Inspiring Gardeners to Grow.
Tue, January 14, 2020
David Tyda about Food Festivals.
Promoting the local food scene and building the local food community in an accessible, affordable, and original way. In This Podcast: Food brings people together, and David Tyda specializes in creating events and festivals that build relationships between local restaurants and the community. If you've ever wondered how food festivals become a reality or considered starting your own, listen in to learn how he creates affordable events for 10,000 people! David shares things he considers, ways to maximize the event space and infrastructure, and how he makes fun, original events that people attend year after year! David is always busy, which is why he requires so many calories to pull off all the projects he has going on. 10 years ago, he co-created the Arizona Taco Festival - which was the first taco festival in the world. Now there are over 200 of them! Over the years he’s created many food festivals, including the Annual Phoenix Pizza Festival and Downtown Donut Festival. If you are in Phoenix this spring, catch his 2nd FRIED, A French Fry & Music Festival. David prides himself on two things: making sure every event is original - he despises copycats; and making sure the events are inclusive - he’s not a fan of high-ticket price events. Having moved on from the Taco Festival, he is opening an agave bar in Downtown Phoenix to help keep him connected to the “taco lifestyle” he so identifies with. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/14/510-david-tyda/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 510: David Tyda about Food Festivals.
Sat, January 11, 2020
Dr. Elise Gornish on Seed Balls.
Giving nature a helping hand by restoring vegetation. In This Podcast: How can we revitalize arid areas in a logistically feasible way? Dr. Elise Gornish walks us through the process of working with land and stakeholders to restore their land using seed balls. Learn about seed balls: making them, how they work, and strategies for small or large scale production. She also gives tips on creating invasion resilience and deterring invasive weeds while encouraging native plants. Full of great info for teachers, parents, and environmental enthusiasts! Elise is a Cooperative Extension Specialist in Ecological Restoration at the University of Arizona. Her research and outreach program largely focuses on identifying strategies for successful restoration in arid land systems and integration of restoration approaches into weed management. Originally from New York, she received her MS and PhD from Florida State University in 2013. She then completed two years of a post doc at the University of California, Davis before becoming a Cooperative Extension Specialist in Ecological Restoration at UC Davis. Then in 2017 she moved to Tucson AZ! Seed ball super hero Elise is an early career leader in the fields of arid land restoration and weed management, and has published over 40 papers and has presented over 150 times at various venues. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/11/509-elise-gornish/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 509: Dr. Elise Gornish on Seed Balls.
Tue, January 07, 2020
Danielle Leoni on Serving up Good Food.
Committing to sustainable resourcing and zero waste, while supporting local agriculture. In This Podcast: How do you go from teaching yoga with no culinary experience to a culinary leader implementing sustainable change within our food system? When Danielle Leoni jumped into fine cuisine, her journey was shaped by her patrons inquiring where the food was sourced. She soon discovered the true cost of inexpensive food and is now actively engaged in the good food fight and influencing traceable sourcing. This episode will inspire everyone to follow their dreams and live their values! Chef Danielle is the Executive Chef & Owner of The Breadfruit & Rum Bar in Phoenix, Arizona. Hailed as a champion of sustainability and green restaurant innovation, Chef Danielle has distinguished herself with an avant-garde approach to blending the best of the southwest with the tropical traditions of Jamaica. She has explored the islands of the Caribbean and immersed herself in seaside food cultures with a keen eye on responsible fishing practices. Under her stewardship, The Breadfruit and Rum Bar has introduced an entirely new cuisine to Arizona while redefining perceptions of tropical and green dining. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/07/508-danielle-leoni/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 508: Danielle Leoni on Serving up Good Food.
Sat, January 04, 2020
Pierre Nibart on Indoor Gardening
Bringing life into your home. In This Podcast: The OGarden, a high tech way of bringing indoor gardening into a small space in your home, is Pierre Nibart's labor of love to improve people's well being. With his OGarden, you can grow 90 plants in a self-lit, 29" by 53" space with minimal involvement. Learn how to start seeds, use the plants in your daily meals, and teach kids about gardening. Plus, it's a great way to get your kids to eat more vegetables when they play a part in growing the plants! Pierre has a life that, like his vision of the world, is largely out of the ordinary. At 11 years old, he left his parents' home, traveling and living in more than 20 countries, which allowed him to learn about many different cultures. He studied hotel management in a prestigious school in Belgium to finally discover his true passion, entrepreneurship. As president of Manufacture OGarden, Pierre delights in helping his customers bring all the benefits of growing food and plants into their home. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2020/01/04/507-pierre-nibart/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 507: Pierre Nibart on Indoor Gardening.
Tue, December 31, 2019
Melissa Canales on Urban Microgreens
Providing convenience, variety, and deliciousness to the on-the-go conscientious eater. In This Podcast: We've all heard about the benefits of eating microgreens, but what does it take to grow them? Melissa Canales of Quantum Microgreens did a career 180 after a health crisis and now makes it her business to grow and supply this amazing health food. Hear about her growing set up and which varieties are the best for beginners. For more advanced farmers, she shares how she made the leap into farming, the business side, and how to find your place in the farming community. Melissa grows and sells microgreens in the heart of San Diego, California. Her company Quantum Microgreens was formed in early 2017, and she specializes in selling living trays of microgreens, grown outside year-round direct to customers at farmer’s markets. She does workshops in the community introducing people to the world of microgreens and helps busy people stay healthy with fresh greens. She also sells Grow Your Own Microgreens kits to share the microgreens love throughout the country. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/31/506-melissa-canales/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 506: Melissa Canales on Urban Microgreens.
Sat, December 28, 2019
Eugene Trufkin on Changing to Better Diets.
Transitioning from factory farmed foods to healthy organic. In This Podcast: Many of us try to eat organic fruits and vegetables and pasture raised meats as often as possible. However due to marketing terms, we may not be eating what we think we bought. Eugene Trufkin explains what the gimmicky packaging terms really mean, how that impacts your diet and body, and how to source high quality meat and produce if you aren't growing your own. Nutrition minded, healthy food visionaries will love the information in this episode! Eugene grew up on a Biodynamic farm in Ukraine and has dedicated his entire life to the understanding of mental and physical health. He currently operates Trufkin Athletics in Irvine, California – a fat loss training center that takes a holistic approach to fat loss and wellness. He’s a graduate from the University of California, Irvine and a CHECK Institute trained professional. He also holds a degree from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/28/505-eugene-trufkin/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 505: Eugene Trufkin on Changing to Better Diets.
Tue, December 24, 2019
John Lagoudakis on Business Side of Urban Farms
Developing lead generation without giving up the farm. In This Podcast: An online presence is important for any farmer or person in agriculture to share their products and knowledge. This episode's guest, John Lagoudakis, professionally coaches businesses on reaching their audience. Here, he gives Urban Farmers tips on how to build their business using online strategies. Learn about the benefits of a website, the best way to use social media, and how to capture future customer's attention using consistent, free content and genuine interaction. John is one of Australia’s leading Internet marketers. It all started back in 2007, when he stumbled across affiliate marketing and within two years was able to go from $0 online, to being one of Clickbank’s top 100 affiliates worldwide. He’s been featured in the New York Times bestseller ‘Get Rich Click’, has authored several books, and been the host of a long-running Internet marketing podcast. Today, John helps businesses create lead generation campaigns on Facebook and Google that get results fast. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/24/504-john-lagoudakis/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 504: John Lagoudakis on Business Side of Urban Farms.
Sat, December 21, 2019
Tiffany Panaccione on The Basil Project.
Taking the initial steps to starting her own farm. In This Podcast: Returning guest, Tiffany Panaccione, is back for an update on her new basil farm. She discusses some of her early learnings on preparing greenhouse plants for a garden, when to plant outside of your area's planting calendar, how she protects against pests, and theories on a mysterious overnight digger. Also, listen in for her experience attending the Earthship Academy, some of her mentors as she starts her farm, and why basil holds a special place in her heart. Tiff is a Phoenix native with a gypsy soul. Her self-healing journey has sailed her around the world and right back home to her roots. With a strong craving and an inner calling to go deep within herself and simultaneously the dirt, she is now listening, learning, discovering, and planning to cultivate the gifts of the Sonoran Desert. After all, she wonders… is it really worth doing the “hard work” if it isn’t your heart’s work? Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/21/503-tiffany-panaccione/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 503: Tiffany Panaccione on The Basil Project.
Bonus · Tue, December 17, 2019
Seed Saving Class November 2019
Bonus Episode 32: Seed Saving Class November 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: This special seed saving chat covers Bill McDorman's learning and experiences after attending the 8th Session of the Governing Body International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resource for Food and Agriculture in Rome, Italy. This is a recording of the November 2019 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing the global seed situation, plant patents, advanced methods for creating new plants, why seed saving is more important than ever, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/17/bonus32/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Sat, December 14, 2019
Allie Borovik on Networking Small Yard Farms
Building a community of farms, one yard at a time. In This Podcast: How do you farm in a city without a large plot of land? Allie Borovik, the creator of Neighborfood, is learning how to do just that in Austin, TX. Using Fleet Farming and Curtis Stone for inspiration, she has devised a business model that allows her to produce and harvest food for local chefs and restaurants without purchasing her own land. Listen in to learn her method of yard farming, the benefit to her landowners, and how she builds her inventory of yards and produce. Allie was born in Houston, TX and raised in Memphis, TN - not on farms, but always around food. She spent her college years in New York City playing volleyball and studying politics, food, and public health. In 2017, she fell in love with farming at the Farmer Training Program in Burlington, VT. A year later she was growing vegetables and some animals at Stone Barns Center for Food and Agriculture outside of NYC. Just this past spring, Allie moved to Austin, TX to start Neighborfood, a neighborhood-based network of small yard farms. Currently, she has three yards in production and is selling her produce to restaurants and markets around the city. Allie started Neighborfood as a way to feed people, build communities, and combat climate change. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/14/502-allie-borovik-on-networking-small-yard-farms/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 502: Allie Borovik on Networking Small Yard Farms
Tue, December 10, 2019
Sonja Overhiser on Eating More Plants
Learning how to cook with vegetables. In This Podcast: Shortly after getting married, Sonja Overhiser and her husband, Alex, did a 180 from fast and frozen food to eating a home-cooked, mostly whole food plant-based diet. She shares what motivated them to learn to cook as well as her efforts to teach others through an award-winning food blog, cookbook, and popular newsletter. There are so many social, mental, and physical benefits to plant-forward diets and she gives examples of how the shift in cooking has changed their life. Sonja is the writer behind the award-winning food blog A Couple Cooks and author of the book Pretty Simple Cooking , named a best vegetarian cookbook by Epicurious and Food & Wine. Along with her husband Alex, the couple has a worldwide following for their vegetarian and plant-based recipes. She's also author of a recipe series with Washington Post Food called Voraciously: Plant Powered , on how to cook more plant-forward meals. Featured everywhere from the TODAY Show to Bon Appetit, Sonja is a national advocate for healthy and sustainable eating to improve our health, communities, and planet. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/10/501-sonja-overhiser/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 501: Sonja Overhiser on Eating more plants.
Sat, December 07, 2019
John Lee Dumas on Lighting Your Life on Fire.
Moving others to take the leap towards inspiration. In This Podcast: We normally focus on inspiring urban farming, but for our 500th episode, we wanted to educate on one way you can turn your urban farming passion into a business. John Lee Dumas is the creator of Podcasters Paradise, a school that teaches how to start and run a successful podcast. JLD tried several careers before he found his perfect fit, and he discusses what led him to podcasting, managing a business, how to create energy for action, and some of his hurdles along the way. Our guest today is not all that involved with the food movement, he is more in the inspiration movement. I began listening to him in 2014 and was so inspired by his bright personality and incredible guests that I joined Podcasters Paradise - the podcasting school that he and his partner Kate run. This led me to launch the Urban Farm Podcast in the fall of 2015. Using their techniques and strategies, we now have a global reach, 50,000 downloads a month, AND hundreds of episodes educating and inspiring others to be part of their food system. So, in celebration of our 500th episode I have asked JLD to be my guest today. John Lee Dumas, or JLD as he is known by his listeners, is the host of Entrepreneurs on Fire, an award-winning podcast where he interviews inspiring entrepreneurs who are truly ON FIRE. With over 2000 episodes, 1 million+ listens a month, and seven-figures of annual revenue, he is just getting started. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/07/500-john-lee-dumas/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Disclosure: This interview mentions affiliate links. If you choose to purchase affiliate items or courses, The Urban Farm will earn a small commission at no cost to you. This helps us to continue giving you great content for FREE and we appreciate the support. We believe in all the affiliate programs we suggest. See our Disclosure Policy ( www.urbanfarm.org/disclosure ) for more details. 500: John Lee Dumas on Lighting your Life on Fire.
Tue, December 03, 2019
Benjamin Vidmar on Growing Food at the Pole.
Creating a circular food system in the arctic extremes. In This Podcast: Dropping everything and moving to the northernmost city in the world might be what some people would call ‘extreme’, yet Chef Benjamin Vidmar did that and is going even further by working towards a zero-waste food system for the city. He shares how this project uses permaculture in a city that imports its food and exports its waste, and how he has garnered the city leaders’ support. Listen in to see how you can help. Benjamin is an Eco-chef and Foodie from Cleveland, Ohio with over 20 years of international experience. After working for 18 years as a professional chef in the United States, Asia, and Scandinavia, he visited Svalbard, Norway for the first time in 2007 and instantly fell in love with the Arctic. After several years as the head chef at Svalbard Pub, he felt called to interrupt and innovate a food system that simply wasn’t working. In 2015 he created Polar Permaculture to help restore sustainable systems in the “northern most” town in the world. Today, Polar Permaculture produces farm fresh, nutritious vegetables, microgreens, and sprouts for the local community with a sustainable, circular system in mind. Their intent is to produce enough food for the entire town of Longyearbyen and process all of the community’s organic and biological waste. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/12/03/499-benjamin-vidmar/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 499: Benjamin Vidmar on Growing Food at the Pole.
Sat, November 30, 2019
Jaime Pawelek on Pollinator-Friendly Habitats
Encouraging landscapes and gardens with plants favorited by native bees. In This Podcast: We've heard about bees on previous podcasts, but Jaime Pawelek, a taxonomist who identifies bees and unnamed species, is sure to teach you something new! We go outside of the typical honey, carpenter, and mason bee discussion and into some unique varieties like a sweat bee. Jamie shares details on how bees collect pollen and nectar, their motivation, seasonal needs, and environmental needs to bring these pollinators to your garden. Learn more on how to plant garden bees! Jaime is the owner of Wild Bee Garden Design and has been studying native bees for nearly 15 years. She graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in Conservation and Resource Studies in 2008. At the university, she worked in the Urban Bee Lab with Dr. Gordon Frankie for several years where she learned about the close relationships of bees and plants by observing their interactions all across California. With the information she learned, and started designing gardens full of native and drought tolerant plants for homeowners and businesses to help them create valuable pollinator habitats. She currently works as a taxonomist identifying bees for various researchers around the country. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/30/498-jaime-pawelek/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 498: Jaime Pawelek on Pollinator-Friendly Habitats
Tue, November 26, 2019
Scott Brown on Chicken Feed Co-ops
Providing organic, non-GMO, and soy-free chicken feed to local backyard farmers. In This Podcast: Even if you don't own chickens, if you've ever considered the difference that eating organic makes, this podcast on Chicken Feed Co-ops is for you! Learn why Scott Brown is passionate about finding reasonably priced organic feed for his hens and how his plight created a community co-op. Most importantly, he shares some of the science and studies on GMO's, soy, and organic foods. Through bioaccumulation, our food's food is our food and he puts a whole new spin on eating well. Scott is just a guy who started a chicken feed co-op to save money on eggs. He organized Phoenix Organic Feed, Flour and Grain, as a local buying club to get organic chicken feed at reasonable prices. Plus as an added bonus he can specify which ingredients go into the premium USDA certified organic feeds, grains, and flours. Phoenix Organic Feed, Flour and Grain is a local supplier of organic, non-GMO chicken feed serving Phoenix and Tucson. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/26/497-scott-brown/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 497: Scott Brown on Chicken Feed Co-ops
Sat, November 23, 2019
Jacob Pechenik on Home Grown Salads
Making growing healthy food at home fast, easy, and fun. In This Podcast: The idea of growing 20% of your own food at home can be intimidating, but Jason Pechenik found a way to make it attainable, affordable, and fool-proof. He shares how his hydroponic Farm Stand saves water, energy, shortens time to harvest, and extends growing seasons. The most amazing part of the program is the plant suggestions by zip code and continuous coaching and reminders to add water and nutrients. Listen in for a promo code and free app that helps all food growers! Jacob is a passionate entrepreneur who has built a career around questioning and improving industry status quos. After graduating from MIT with a BS in Chemical Engineering he founded and led an early web-based B2B supply chain platform, a peer-to-peer derivatives trading platform, and a film finance and production company with over 30 film credits. But when expecting their first child, Jacob became acutely aware of limitations in our food system, and they were inspired to look into possible solutions. This passion led them to found The Farm Project, a Public Benefit Corporation whose mission is to transform our food system by engaging and empowering consumers. With Jacob as Founder and CEO, The Farm Project launched the hit web series “Your Food’s Roots” in partnership with ATTN: in 2017. And in the spring of 2019, the company launched Lettuce Grow, an initiative that empowers everyone to grow 20% of their own food at home. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/23/496-jacob-pechenik/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 496: Jacob Pechenik on Home Grown Salads
Tue, November 19, 2019
Sara El-Sayed on Low-Tech Irrigation
Pursuing regenerative farming solutions for desert climates and communities. In This Podcast: Dry, arid regions make for some creative watering strategies. Sara El-Sayed has taken the traditional olla method of watering to a new level by incorporating drip irrigation tubing. The Clayola system creates a hands-off watering system that only needs monthly attention. She also shares about how food creates culture and identity, how to consider the whole food system beyond the grocery store shelves, the growing conditions in Egypt, and how to regenerate areas using biomimicry. Sara is pursuing her Ph.D. at Arizona State University in food system sustainability, specifically on Women in Arid Region's Regenerative Practices. She is dedicated to making a difference in her local food system and has co-founded multiple organizations for this purpose. Nawaya is a social enterprise working as a catalyst to transition small scale farmer communities in Egypt into more sustainable ones through education and research. Dayma is an LLC responsible for outdoor Environmental Education, teaching young adults about Biomimicry and local Egyptian communities. And, Clayola, is an LLC creating low-tech irrigation systems in collaboration with local Egyptian clay artisans. Sara has served as a board member in Slow Food, an international movement aiming to safeguard local food cultures and traditions by promoting Good, Clean and Fair food for all. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/19/495-sara-el-sayed/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 495: Sara El-Sayed on Low-Tech Irrigation.
Sat, November 16, 2019
Kelly Athena on Wild Desert Cuisine.
Foraging and harvesting edible plants. In This Podcast: Explore the abundance of the desert with Cactus Kelly Athena. Normally a teacher and wild desert cuisine harvester, Kelly will open your eyes to ways you could be eating the native plants in your area or harvesting them and selling to local chefs and restaurants. After this episode, you'll be harvesting your neighborhood trees to try desert edamame, mesquite flour, nopales, and prickly pear! Also, she explains the environmental and social benefits of hyperlocal cuisine. Kelly grew up loving nature in Northern California and moved to Phoenix in 1986. She holds a Master's Degree in Music and Photography, and is a Master Gardener of Maricopa County. She was named Arizona Photographer of the year in 2000, and especially enjoys photographing nature. Five years ago, she began hosting plant walks to help people learn to identify and sustainably harvest wild plants. Then she was dubbed “Cactus Kelly.” Kelly is especially interested in desert bean trees such as the Palo Verde, Mesquite, and Ironwood trees as well as edible cacti and weeds. She harvests wild desert cuisine for restaurants and chefs in the area, makes prickly pear juice and powder, and teaches desert foraging in schools and at the Desert Botanical Garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/16/494-kelly-athena/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 494: Kelly Athena on Wild Desert Cuisine.
Tue, November 12, 2019
Scott Murray on Active Carbon Sequestration
Researching how urban farmers can increase the performance of our landscapes. In This Podcast: If the term active carbon sequestration has you picturing scientists in hazmat suits, you aren’t alone! Returning guest Scott Murray shares how to harness the power of nature and use home landscaping to reduce carbon in the environment. Listen in for an easy to understand explanation of the impact of carbon on our global environment, how capturing it helps the growth of our plants and trees, and what we can do right now to create microsystems that reduce your carbon output. Scott has 46 years of organic agricultural production experience in the United States and Mexico. He has a multitude of experience with conservation, food production, and environmental leadership—including serving as an elected California Conservation official for the last 27 years. Scott also specializes in farmland preservation projects utilizing Smart Growth Principles. These days he does farm creation and consulting as his primary work, including work on a farm growing coffee in Southern California which had its first harvest and sold out in one day for $796 a pound. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/12/493-scott-murray/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 493: Scott Murray on Active Carbon Sequestration
Sat, November 09, 2019
Christopher Peterson on Urban Farming with Vets
Working with military vets to share urban farming skills. In This Podcast: AOVS Urban Farm is much more than CSA and Farmers Market produce. The farm is home to veterans, and Christopher Peterson discusses the immense benefits for the veterans who work and walk through the farm. This unique model has its challenges, and he shares how they planned a regenerative, ADA accessible space that produces food, but also acts as landscaping for the on-site residents. Listen in to learn about this unique approach to helping our veterans and the surrounding community! Christopher works as the Farm Manager at AOVS Urban Farm, a 2-acre Urban Farm and Gardens in South Memphis serving economically disadvantaged veterans who have suffered from physical and/or mental health conditions. Prior to this position, he ran Loch Holland Farm, a small, sustainable livestock farm focusing on multi-species rotational grazing and has worked on several other small, sustainable farms in the Memphis area. Christopher also previously served as Executive Director for GrowMemphis (now a program of Memphis Tilth) and has consulted on various other Mid-south food initiatives. In addition to food work, he holds an MA in Human Value and Global Ethics and continues to teach locally as an adjunct professor in Philosophy and Anthropology. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/09/492-christopher-peterson/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 492: Christopher Peterson on Urban Farming with Vets
Tue, November 05, 2019
Jason Johns on Vertical Gardening
Using the space above planters to the best advantage. In This Podcast: Sometimes it just doesn't feel like we have enough space in our gardens! Returning guest, Jason Johns, shares his solution that increased the yield per square foot from his garden, different styles of vertical gardens, and design tips. He also recommends his favorite plants and how to customize the soil and watering schedule when you are planting upward. Listen in for details on how to win his newest book to help you start creating your own vertical garden. Jason is the author of Vertical Gardening: A Complete Guide to Growing Food, Herbs, and Flowers in Small Spaces , as well as 17 other gardening books on everything from greenhouse gardening to growing giant pumpkins. Jason is passionate about gardening, having grown his own produce for over twenty years. He started with a second-hand greenhouse, an 8’ by 6’ patch of his mother’s garden, and far too many tomato plants. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/09/492-christopher-peterson/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 491: Jason Johns on Vertical Gardening
Sat, November 02, 2019
Jay Tracy on Cucumber Melons.
Admiring the most commonly pickled vegetable in all its varieties. In This Podcast: Do you know the difference between a cucumber and a cucumber melon? Neither did Jay Tracy, but a conversation with a desert gardening guru helped him discover this tasty, drought-tolerant plant that is easy to grow in hot climates. Learn all about how to grow cucumber melons, how he avoids cross-pollination, and why landrace varieties are more resilient. Jay also shares some of his favorite varieties, his secrets for pre-sprouting vs direct seeding, and how to win some seeds! Jay began gardening in 2006 in Tucson Arizona, then moved to Fairfield, California for cooler weather and health reasons. In Fairfield, he has three large garden beds - one at home, two at nearby friends’ houses - and one greenhouse. His blog Scientificgardener.com is where he records his experiments and discusses his love of gardening. Early in his gardening life he found an interest in growing cucumbers and has experimented with common and not-so-common varieties, and with each success, he expands to even more rare varieties. Over time this hobby has expanded to a small business known as the Cucumber Shop. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/11/02/490-jay-tracy/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! This contest period has expired. 490: Jay Tracy on Cucumber Melons.
Tue, October 29, 2019
Abraham Noe-Hays on Fertilizer from Urine
Changing the world by reclaiming nutrients lost from our bodies. In This Podcast: What is your first thought when you think of using urine as fertilizer? Abraham Noe-Hays from the Rich Earth Institute may change your mind. Urine contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, all things that we look for in a fertilizer. They create pollution in our wastewater system, but when added to the agricultural cycle they benefit our plants. Listen in and learn about urine diversion, and you'll honestly start to contemplate if you should begin peeing in your yard! Abraham is the Research Director of the Rich Earth Institute. He coordinates multidisciplinary research and demonstration efforts involving farmers, scientists, planners, and volunteer participants (aka "urine donors"), with the goal of developing tools to allow other communities to start recycling urine. A lifelong resident of Vermont, he has used alternative sanitation systems since 1976, and has been academically and professionally involved in their development since 2000. The Rich Earth Institute is an organization operating the nation’s first community-scale urine recycling program. This program converts human urine into fertilizer for use on local farms. The initiative saves water, prevents pollution, and supports sustainable agriculture by turning a universal waste product into a valuable resource. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/29/489-abe-noe-hays/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 489: Abraham Noe-Hays on Fertilizer from Urine
Sat, October 26, 2019
Chris Smith about Saving Seed Diversity
Documenting the many unique aspects in seed varieties. In This Podcast: Returning podcast guest, Chris Smith, updates us on his Okra Trials, everything he learned, and how they determined the best variety of okra out of over 60 contestants! He also shares how The Utopian Seed Project is focusing on bringing seed and food diversity to the south. They are currently testing southern crops such as cowpeas, heritage beans, corn, and groundnuts. Listen in to learn about growing tropical perennials in the south, open-sourced seeds, and much more! Chris is an author, garden blog writer, and homesteading consultant. In 2018 while writing his book The Whole Okra, he grew out 76 different varieties of okra as research . In many ways, this research fed The Utopian Seed Project to take root and grow. Based in Asheville, NC, the Utopian Seed Project is a hands-in-the-earth organization committed to research trials on crop varieties in the Southeast to support diversity in food and farming. They are working towards an overarching vision to support food security in the face of climate change through diverse and regenerative agriculture. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/26/488-chris-smith/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 488: Chris Smith about Saving Seed Diversity
Bonus · Tue, October 22, 2019
Seed Saving Class September 2019
Bonus Episode 31: Seed Saving Class September 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: This is the September 2019 episode of a live Seed Saving Class discussing genetic modification, the current advances, what that means for our food, the truth behind the scientific studies, hand pollination, and so much more. There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/22/bonus31/ for the show notes on this bonus episode, and access to our full podcast library!
Sat, October 19, 2019
Peggy Sorensen on Foraging Edible Plants in the Desert
Discovering the wonders of harvesting native and urban trees, weeds, and cacti. In This Podcast: What would you eat if all the grocery stores in your area closed? Peggy Sorensen has found her answer in the native trees, shrubs, weeds, and cacti of the southwest! Hear how she got into foraging edible desert plants, which southwest plants are her favorite to harvest, and some of the ways to process and prepare them. If you've ever wondered about making your own prickly pear juice, mesquite flour, purslane pickles, or mallow chips, you'll love this intro to wild foods! Peggy is a wild-foods enthusiast and forager who enjoys helping people discover the edible plants, trees, and weeds that grow all around us but typically are not recognized as food. She gives workshops and plant walks around the Phoenix area and not only brings in samples of the plants to see, touch and taste but she also likes to turn them into tasty treats in order to provide a well-rounded experience. She has become known for her mallow chips, purslane pickles, prickly pear lemonade as well as mesquite nectar and truffles. Peggy is also a gardener, an herbalist and a board member of the AZ Herb Association. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/19/487-peggy-sorensen/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 487: Peggy Sorensen on Foraging Edible Plants in the Desert
Tue, October 15, 2019
Clint Hickman on Building Community Sustainability
Honoring a family heritage or nurturing neighbors. In This Podcast: Most people in Arizona are familiar with Hickman's eggs, but there is so much more to this family-run business than eggs! Clint Hickman shared with us the evolution of egg farming, and how his family business grew enough to feed Phoenix. He also explains all the side businesses that came out of egg farming: organic fertilizer, recycling programs, and animal feed. They even formed a mutually beneficial program with local prisons that gives farm-work-release inmates a leg up. Clint is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Hickman’s Family Farms, the largest egg company in the Southwest United States and one of the top 20 nationwide. Truly family-run, Clint and his siblings have built up the business that his grandmother founded. A graduate of the University of Arizona, he oversees the vast network of partners that Hickman’s maintains, and guides the company’s marketing efforts. While growing up, Clint was inspired by how his grandparents treated friends and neighbors. From that, he now makes sure that programs are provided to help relieve hunger, support education, and promote extensive and ongoing training in the communities that Hickman brands are welcomed. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/15/486-clint-hickman/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 486: Clint Hickman on Building Community Sustainability
Sat, October 12, 2019
Jolene Kuty on Abundant Holistic Harvests
Creating a full circle food system that connects family and community . In This Podcast: Wholistic living has taken on a whole new meaning for Jolene Kuty! Through learning about health, she went from eating cheese infused hot dogs to working as a chiropractic physician surrounded by her half-acre urban farm. She created a full circle system using compost, chickens, mealworms, and contributions from neighbors. Hear how she engages her kids and educates with no element overlooked as she creates a thriving space that allows her to get outside and engage with the world. Chiropractic physician and health educator, Dr. Jolene Kuty, built an idyllic sustainable urban farm as a role model for her patients and her family. Her home and on-site chiropractic office is surrounded by 800 sq. ft. of raised organic vegetable gardens and over 20 Urban Farm fruit trees. They live, work, and play on a half-acre in the city where their five children swing beside seedlings and are surrounded by fresh growing fruit. They eat farm-to-table sharing recipes and inspiration with all who visit. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/12/485-jolene-kuty/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 485: Jolene Kuty on Abundant Holistic Harvests
Tue, October 08, 2019
Kristie Kapp on Eco-edible landscaping
Helping others understand and create food forests. In This Podcast: Eco-edible landscaping sounds like a cool new method, but it incorporates many of the tried and true methods of permaculture. Kristie Kapp educates on building a food forest and how to incorporate 7 layers, supporting plants, mineral accumulators, and beneficial insects. She teaches stacking plant functions and how to build the ideal soil for your food forest in just one year. Listen in to learn these principles and how to start creating regenerative, resilient ecosystems. Kristie is the Founder and Executive Director of Resilient Roots. She has a master's in ecology from Yale School of Environmental Studies and over twenty years of farming experience. She decided to merge the two professions, completed a permaculture landscape design program, and has been designing landscapes since 2014. Resilient Roots is a non-profit organization whose mission is to educate and promote awareness about permaculture landscapes that are primarily edible and guided by ecological principles. They empower people to grow their own food in a manner that is sustainable and uses local resources. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/08/488-kristie-kapp/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 484: Kristie Kapp on Eco-edible landscaping
Sat, October 05, 2019
Tiffany Panaccione on Starting an urban Farm Business
Moving from dreaming about it, to doing what it takes to grow a farm. In This Podcast: How does an adventurous spirit, practicing yoga and following your intuition lead someone to start a farm? As Tiffany Panaccione learned, those experiences teach you to follow your heart and try new things! Listen in to learn how she plans to turn her dream of farming into a profitable business. She discusses her plans for her first crop, and how she plans to build a customer base. Healthy soil, drip tape, and saving seeds are all part of the strategy she discusses. Tiff is a Phoenix native with a gypsy soul. Her self-healing journey has sailed her around the world and right back home to her roots. With a strong craving and an inner calling to go deep within herself and simultaneously the dirt, she is now listening, learning, discovering, and planning to cultivate the gifts of the Sonoran Desert. After all, she wonders… is it really worth doing the “hard work” if it isn’t your heart’s work? Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/05/483-tiffany-panaccione/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 483: Tiffany Panaccione on Starting an Urban Farm Business
Tue, October 01, 2019
Michael Gettens on Evolving Lifestyles in a Changing World
Enhancing our connection to the earth and each other. In This Podcast: Learning about permaculture can be life changing, and Michael Gettens shares about his experience taking a permaculture design course, how to take on a production mindset instead of simply consuming resources, and how the current food system is degenerative instead of regenerative. Rainwater harvesting, sectors, zones, and solar cooking are all topics in this chat about working with the earth to connect with it and each other. Michael is a Permaculture student inspired by the diversity of plants and animals who call the Sonoran Desert home. Growing up in New Jersey, his Italian mother sparked an interest in nutrition, and thus the importance of fresh, local ingredients began his gardening journey. When he moved across the country in 2014 to Arizona, the unique climate presented an obvious focus on water to ensure a good harvest. Michael took his first Permaculture Design Course in the Fall of 2017, led by Dan Dorsey - which guided him to a concentration in rainwater harvesting, and a goal to discover low-tech solutions that provide basic human needs. His current position at Galaxy Gardens includes irrigation maintenance, rain garden design, and planting services. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/10/01/482-michael-gettens/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 482: Michael Gettens on Evolving Lifestyles in a Changing World
Sat, September 28, 2019
Rivka Fidel on Biochar and Carbon Farming
Building soil quality through carbon management. In This Podcast: Biochar can improve your soil and help the environment at the same time! We visited with Dr. Rivka Fidel from the University of Arizona to learn all about biochar and carbon farming. Listen in for how you can make it, use it, and the science behind adding it to your compost. She also shares about her journey into the field of sustainable agriculture, why it's important for our future to create a carbon negative world, and highlights in carbon farming. Dr. Rivka Fidel is currently an Assistant Professor of Practice at the Department Environmental Science, University of AZ, teaching introductory level classes in Soil Science and Critical Zone Science. She received her PhD in Soil Science from Iowa State University and her B.S. in Environmental Science from Union College. Her research is in soil carbon and nitrogen cycling, specifically examining the efficacy of biochar for improving soil quality and mitigating climate change. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/28/481-rivka-fidel/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 481: Rivka Fidel on Biochar and Carbon Farming
Bonus · Tue, September 24, 2019
Seed Saving Class August 2019.
Bonus Episode 30: Seed Saving Class August 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: Once again we join a conversation with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson to learn about growing from seed, growing for seed, and why our seeds are so important in these changing times. This is the replay of the August 2019 Seed Saving Class In this class, he covers the Art of Seed Saving, and of course a few more things as well. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/24/bonus30/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 21, 2019
Kevin Espiritu on his Apocalypse Grow Survival Challenge
Experimenting with living off existing food sources for difficult times. In This Podcast: We followed up with Kevin Espiritu to hear the results of his Apocalypse Survival Challenge. Could you survive for a whole month only eating what you grow, fish, barter, or forage? Hear how Kevin used his 200 square foot gardening space, community foodscapes, and trade - to nourish himself for an entire month. He gets specific on identifying what foods to grow in the 90 days prior to the challenge, how he added protein using fishing and plants, and his surprising takeaways. His business Epic Gardening began as a way for Kevin to present gardening information in a more modern, updated way to friends and family. First came the website. Followed by YouTube, a daily podcast, and finally his social media presence on Instagram, and Facebook. Kevin is the author of Field Guide to Urban Gardening from our friends at Quarto Publishing. Like Greg, Kevin was a presenter on the recent Superfood Summit and loves to share gardening knowledge. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/21/480-kevin-espiritu/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 480: Kevin Espiritu on his Apocalypse Grow Survival Challenge
Tue, September 17, 2019
Katie Fiore on Apple Abundance
How to get creative with 80 pounds of fruit. In This Podcast: We are back with returning guest and team member, Katie Fiore to talk about getting creative when your yard gives you an excess of food. While many people fear abundance, she embraces the creativity it allows and shares a different way to look at cooking with apples in both the long and short term. You’ll also learn about the concept of a local "Cool Tool" community shed for lesser-used harvest tools, as well as saving seeds and succession planting for seasonal abundance. Katie is an Arizona native who spent most of her life thinking she had a brown thumb. Five years ago, her first successful attempt at growing food was herbs grown in wine barrels. Since then she has become an Urban Farm junkie. In Spring 2018 she planted 15 fruit trees and bushes in the backyard and has started adding a few raised beds to her garden. Now, she is up to 21 fruit trees on her property, all with sweet potatoes planted under them. A career change last summer has given her the time to pursue a healthier, lower stress life with her new husband Mark. She is currently following her dreams of blogging about all her adventures, nurturing her backyard food forest, and helping GrowPHX Collaborative establish a Speakers Bureau in Arizona. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/17/479-katie-fiore/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 479: Katie Fiore on Apple Abundance.
Sat, September 14, 2019
Matt Lebon on Foodscaping
Transforming ordinary spaces into beautiful, food-producing landscapes. In This Podcast: Entering college without much direction, a life-changing experience in Paraguay helped Matt Lebon find his place in the global food system. Now, he runs a custom foodscaping company making spaces beautiful and edible. He share about hands-on education in permaculture and farm school as well the magical food moments his company helps to create. He gives insight into how gardens and orchards connect people to nature and how schools can use their foodscapes to teach science. Matt is a proud St. Louis native with over ten years of farming and gardening experience. He got his start with farming as a Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay, later going to study permaculture and work on several farms in Israel and Brooklyn, NY. Then he became a practitioner and instructor on edible landscaping, organic agriculture, orcharding, and permaculture design. He is most passionate about creating magical food moments in the everyday places we work, learn and play. His company Custom Foodscaping transforms ordinary spaces into beautiful, food-producing landscapes. They provide consultation, design, and installation services to create edible landscaping in your farm & garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/14/478-matt-lebon-2/ for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! 478: Matt Lebon on Foodscaping
Tue, September 10, 2019
Joe Yonan on Documenting the Culinary Experience
Conveying observations from the kitchen, the dining room, and the garden. Journalism and food have been major themes all throughout Joe Yonan's life. In this podcast, learn about how he got involved with food at a very young age, his journey to food editor, and what a food editor actually does. Joe also shares about learning to homestead, succession planting, and what he's growing in his garden. He has written two cookbooks and edited another called “America The Great Cookbook,” don't tell anyone else, but we smell a book giveaway cooking! Joe is the Food and Dining editor of The Washington Post, supervising all food coverage in the features department. He is also the editor of " America The Great Cookbook " and has written two cookbooks “Eat Your Vegetables: Bold Recipes for the Single Cook” (2013) and “Serve Yourself: Nightly Adventures in Cooking for One" (2011). Joe was a food writer and Travel section editor at the Boston Globe before moving to Washington in 2006 to edit The Post’s Food section. He writes The Post’s Weeknight Vegetarian column and for five years wrote the Cooking for One column, both of which have won honors from the Association of Food Journalists. In addition to writing about food and dining, Joe also has written about his efforts to grow food on his 150-square-foot urban front yard. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/10/477-joe-yonan/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 477: Joe Yonan on Documenting the Culinary Experience
Sat, September 07, 2019
Kimberly Kling on the Impact of Herbs.
Inspiration through nature’s bounty of nourishing plants. In This Podcast: Working in a desk job and knowing that it was not a good fit, it still took Kimberly Kling a little while to build up the courage to do something different. Eventually she found herself on a path to learning about herbalism and has finally found her passion. As a devoted learner, she is learning as much as she can, but still finds time to share with others what she has learned so far. Kimberly is an herbalist, mother, part-time homesteader, gardener, and the creatrix behind Joyful Roots, a botanical wellness brand. Kimberly and her family live on a 4-acre mini farm in a rural ranching town in Southern Arizona. She finds immense enjoyment in getting to know the local wild plants, experimenting with gardening, making art, creating with food and herbs, and exploring the land around her. Through her business, Joyful Roots, her passions are channeled into to helping others cultivate their inner joy by amplifying their self-care rituals and growing deeper roots in our Mother Earth. Kimberly is committed to offering small batch, 100% natural body-care and soul-care products that nourish our bodies, respect the Earth, and empower us into greater well-being. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/07/476-kimberly-kling/ for links to her poem, and to a surprising recipe. 476: Kimberly Kling on the Impact of Herbs.
Tue, September 03, 2019
475: David Barrow on Sustainable Urban Farming in Texas
Farming for a local restaurant and a rapidly growing community. In This Podcast: It was not a direct path to this destiny for David Barrow, but running a sustainable urban farm in Austin Texas has been his biggest success. With many regenerative and sustainable practices in use on the farm it is no wonder the soil is healthy and the crops are productive. Working hand-in-hand with a restaurant onsite allows for the freshest of dishes in a unique way. He shares some key aspects about how sustainable farming is working in East Austin. David is the Farm Manager for Eden East Farm in East Austin. After 18 years of working in the film industry, he began managing Eden East and runs the farm in conjunction with a locally sourcing restaurant. Eden East Farm is a sustainable urban farm sitting three miles from the state capital building. They grow over 65 varieties of produce throughout the year, and service restaurants and the public alike. Formerly Springdale Farm, the property has served the community for over 100 years in some sort of farming capacity. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/09/03/475-david-barrow/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 475: David Barrow on Sustainable Urban Farming in Texas
Sat, August 31, 2019
Amy Lacey on The very versatile cauliflower.
Taking an everyday vegetable to the table in delicious new ways. After Amy Lacey’s health took a downturn and she wanted to bring some normalcy back to her family’s routine, she tried a recipe for a vegetable she did not really like. Little did she know how a bland vegetable could make such a difference for so many people. Combine that with her passion for doing good things and paying it forward, and she is truly making a delicious impact in the world. Amy is the author of Cali’flour Kitchen: 125 Cauliflower-Based Recipes for the Carbs You Crave . She is the co-founder and CEO of Cali’flour Foods, and her Cali’flour products have been featured in Food & Beverage Magazine, GQ, and OK! Magazine. They were also named one of “Whoopi’s Favorite Things” on The View; and won Clean Eating magazine’s Clean Choice Award two years in a row. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/31/474-amy-lacey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 474: Amy Lacey on The very versatile cauliflower.
Tue, August 27, 2019
Kevin Espiritu on Small-space urban gardening techniques
Expanded growing options through hydroponics. In This Podcast: When Kevin Espiritu started gardening he quickly became interested in hydroponics, and as he tried to learn how, he found that most articles and books were focused on only one well-known plant and he wanted to grow food. He started documenting his experiences to help others, and now Kevin has several platforms to share information for new and beginning gardeners. Today he shares several tips about small space gardening, and how there is a way for anyone with a will. www.urbanfarm.org/epicgardening Living in a condo in 2011, Kevin didn’t have the space for a big backyard soil-based garden, so he got creative. Learning about urban gardening was eye opening for Kevin and as a self-admitted geek and someone with an obsessive personality, he got hooked. Living in a condo in 2011, Kevin didn’t have the space for a big backyard soil-based garden, so he got creative. Learning about urban gardening was eye opening for Kevin and as a self-admitted geek and someone with an obsessive personality, he got hooked. He started building his own “bizarre” hydroponic systems with amazing results, and when his friends and family wanted to learn how to do the same – Kevin was in business. Epic Gardening began as a way to present gardening information in a more modern, updated way. First, the website, next YouTube, a daily podcast, and then his Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest presence. Kevin is the author of Field Guide to Urban Gardening from our friends at Quarto Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/27/473-kevin-espiritu/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 473: Kevin Espiritu on Small-Space Urban Gardens
Sat, August 24, 2019
Angela Neyland on Permaculture Homesteading in Australia.
Focusing on sustainable growing practices on 20-acres down under. In This Podcast: We meet Angela Neyland as she tells us why an old TV comedy series influenced her and how she found permaculture. With this foundation, she shares the journey that led her and her husband to start a permaculture based homestead. She describes her property and some of the challenges they have overcome so far as well as her future plans for the property. Angela is an Australian 34-year-old mother and part-time university research officer who holds a PhD in Australian Aboriginal archaeology. She and her husband Danial own Loganberry Forest, a permaculture homestead in rural Victoria Australia where she recently started a small heirloom seed business for her homegrown seeds online. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/24/472-angela-neyland/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 472: Angela Neyland on Permaculture Homesteading in Australia.
Bonus · Tue, August 20, 2019
Seed Saving Class July 2019
Bonus Episode 29: Seed Saving Class July 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: Once again we join a conversation with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson to learn about growing from seed, growing for seed, and why our seeds are so important in these changing times. This is the replay of the July 2019 Seed Saving Class In this class he covers Extreme Seed Saving, and of course a few more things as well. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/20/bonus29/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 17, 2019
Jake Mowrer on Deep Roots in Soil
Digging into the reasons plants flourish. In This Podcast: We delve deeper into the relationship between plant roots and healthy soil with Jake Mowrer. He explains why the soil changes when plant roots extend through it's layers, and lessons learned from the dustbowl times regarding soil degradation. Through his simple explanations, it is easier to understand the nature of soil make-up. And, he shares simple tips on how to improve soil quality. Jake was raised on a farm in north Georgia where his family produced broiler chickens and beef cattle. Growing up, the work was often hard, but the food was always good. Life on the farm is a good way to gain an appreciation for the connectivity of food production in our daily lives. Jake now works with farmers in Texas as a Texas A&M faculty member in the Soil and Crop Science Department, and as an Extension Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to communicate the importance of managing soil as a natural resource. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/17/471-jake-mowrer/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 471: Jake Mowrer on Deep Roots in Soil
Tue, August 13, 2019
David Stark on Soil Microbes.
Getting serious about the microscopic life in soil. In This Podcast: Retired after years of leadership in Monsanto, David Stark was asked to mentor a young company making what was essentially compost tea. Reluctantly and with some concerns over the science, he agreed and now is excited to share what he has learned about soil science and plant health. Grateful for not turning down the request, he now can help teach about soil and plant health and explain about the various microbes in the soil and the essential roles they play. Dr. Stark is President of Holganix LLC where he leads the company’s efforts to expand its business into agriculture. Dr. Stark spent over 25 years with Monsanto Company where he held various senior leadership roles in technology, corporate affairs and business operations. In 2015 he went to work for Holganix, sells a line of 100% natural bionutritional products for turf, ornamental and agriculture use. The product starts with a proprietary process for making and concentrating a diverse mix of over 800 species of beneficial bacteria, fungi and protozoa. The end result is the most complete mix of Organic beneficial microbes on the market. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/13/470-david-stark/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 470: David Stark on Soil Microbes.
Sat, August 10, 2019
Francey Slater on Urban Ag and Food Justice.
Creating resilience in an urban community. In This Podcast: It was after spending some time out of the country that Francey Slater woke to the poor American relationship with food. This motivated her towards food justice and making a difference in her community. With a belief that healthy food is a right for everyone, she co-founded a non-profit that is creating community and school gardens, and building a stronger, resilient community as a result. Francey is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Mill City Grows in Lowell, MA. Her experience creating garden-based educational programming spans two decades, several continents, and youth through adult learners. Mill City Grows is an organization that fosters food justice by improving physical health, economic independence and environmental sustainability in Lowell through increased access to land, locally-grown food and education. Prior to founding Mill City Grows, she was the Education Director for CitySprouts, worked as a member of the Urban Nutrition Initiative in Philadelphia, PA, helped to restore agricultural efforts in a village school in Bangalore, India; and provided education for farmers, gardeners, and youth in Hocotepec, Mexico. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/10/469-francey-slater/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 469: Francey Slater on Urban Ag and Food Justice.
Tue, August 06, 2019
Chris Smith on Okra
Fascination with an underappreciated vegetable. His first introduction to okra did not go over well, but years later Chris Smith was given okra seeds as a gift and he felt responsible to do his best with them. This prompted him to research, learn, and experiment with many varieties and recipes. He learned a lot and he shares part of his journey becoming fascinated with this often discounted vegetable. There is a lot more to this plant than just a simple pod. Check out the recipe for pickled okra he shared with us and included on our shownotes page. Chris is a garden writer and homesteading consultant who serves on the board of The People’s Seed. When he is not okra-ing he can sometimes be found at Sow True Seed, an Asheville-based open-pollinated seed company. The Whole Okra: A Seed to Stem Celebration by our friends at Chelsea Green Publishing, has just been released and is available! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/06/468-chris-smith/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 468: Chris Smith on Okra
Sat, August 03, 2019
Bentley Christie on Worm Composting
Having WAY too much fun with worms! In This Podcast: Watching his coworker through her lunch scraps into a large bin under her desk was just too exciting for Bentley Christie and soon he was on his way to becoming the Compost Guy with a popular blog and website about worm composting. He shares his excitement and admiration for the legless wonders that produce a valued garden soil amendment. Not stopping there, he explains a new method of composting that transformed his garden into a bountiful wonder. Bentley, also known as "Compost Guy", earned an Honors Bachelor of Science in Biology with undergrad and grad studies in: plant pathology, microbiology, soil and compost science. He has been working with worms for over 20 years, is the author of the blog Red Worm Composting and is currently teaching about trench vermicomposting. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/08/03/467-bentley-christie/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 467: Bentley Christie on Worm Composting
Tue, July 30, 2019
Shannon McBride on Successful Community Collaboration
Bringing residents, local government, and businesses together to build an epic garden and so much more. In This Podcast: The area Shannon McBride grew up in had experienced a tumultuous change when the Phoenix light rail was built right down the middle. Instead of getting angry, she decided to start a collaboration for the area. Building around a vision for a safe, walkable community, she started with a community garden; and through team work, donations, and community buy-in, the results are impressive. But she’s not done and there is so much more to this collaboration. 19North is not your typical community garden by any means! Shannon grew up in the 19NORTH Community in Central Phoenix where she currently lives. In her career journey, she has held executive positions with Fortune 100 companies working in: Human Resources, Communications, Strategy Implementation and Training/Development. Her c ommunity work began as a Pastor at Open Door Fellowship Church where she founded 19NORTH - a non-profit community development organization that is bringing together schools, churches, neighborhoods, local government, city offices and businesses to help assure that, "Every Business Thrives, Every Student Succeeds and Every Neighborhood is Safe". Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/30/466-shannon-mcbride/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 466: Shannon McBride on Successful Community Collaboration
Sat, July 27, 2019
Bobby Wilson on Five Acres in Atlanta
Empowering a community through the benefits of growing food in the middle of the city. In This Podcast: After running the Cooperative Extension Program for Urban Gardening in Atlanta, and taking leadership roles in several other community orgs, Bobby Wilson was not going to stop when he retired! Instead he invested his retirement money into a farm and is transforming it in a community resource with education and community plots along with the production agriculture. He has a huge vision for what his team can accomplish. Bobby is the President and CEO of Metro Atlanta Urban Farm, founded to use as a teaching tool, economic empowerment zone, and as a food production site for the southwest Metropolitan Atlanta area. He promotes the benefits of urban agriculture in food deserts with a farming model that works to decrease the number of food insecure families through education on planting, cultivating, and cooking fresh produce. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/27/465-bobby-wilson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. The contest in this episode has been closed. 465: Bobby Wilson on Five Acres in Atlanta
Tue, July 23, 2019
Nicole Finklestein on Urban Herb Farming
Tapping into the many benefits of backyard botanicals. In This Podcast: While becoming a licensed acupuncturist and doctor, Nicole Finklestein felt the carbon footprint of the medicinals and botanicals in her practice was extensive. She drew on her family farming background to start growing herbs and flowers. She discusses holistic practices used on her farm, as well as regenerative agriculture used to rebuild the soil. She has great advice for those interested on jumping into the niche market of medicinal farming. Nicole is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, licensed acupuncturist, and registered herbalist who was raised as a naturalist on her family's berry farm in rural Ohio. She spent much of her childhood exploring the plant kingdom and testing botanical remedies passed down through generations of Appalachian healers. With over a decade of Western and Eastern herbal study, she founded Herban Austin - an herb farm in Central Texas where she cultivates botanicals for both medicinal and culinary use. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/23/464-nicole-finklestein/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 464: Nicole Finklestein on Urban Herb Farming
Sat, July 20, 2019
Carl Atwell on Entrepreneurship and Valued Relationships
Keeping people at the core of small business success. In This Podcast: When an entrepreneurial opportunity came his way, Carl Atwell jumped on board with a passion. He is now president of Gempler’s and is building it again with a commitment towards his customers and employees. He shares the story of how Gempler’s was created with a focus on good values and how he connected with that. He also explains how the relationship with his customers and employees is so important to him and to his vision for the company. Carl has spent 25 years working toward the dream of someday owning a company centered around employees and customers. In January he purchased Gempler’s, an 80-year-old farm-and-home-store that helps anyone who works outdoors. Gempler’s is an independent farming and outdoor-work supply company with a promise to treat you like a neighbor, not a number. They provide innovative products to make the hardest outdoor jobs easier with fair pricing, and friendly service every time. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/20/463-carl-atwell/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 463: Carl Atwell on Entrepreneurship and Valued Relationships
Tue, July 16, 2019
Molly Watson on Harvesting Garden Snails
Turning garden pests into edible treats. In This Podcast: Her 9-year-old son wanted to eat snails while in France, and once home he wanted to eat the garden snails too – so food writer Molly Watson did the research and figured out how to harvest and cook the snails they collected. Her down to earth descriptions can help any gardener who wondered if the pests had an edible purpose. She also shares a lot about her research for her upcoming book about how to decide about being vegan. Molly is the editor-in-chief of Edible Communities, the flagship website for a network of 80+ hyper-local food magazines across the US and Canada. She is the author of Bowls! (2017) and Greens + Grains (2014), both from Chronicle Books, as well as the forthcoming Should We All Be Vegan? out this fall (2019) from Thames & Hudson. She lives in San Francisco where the winters feel colder than her native Minnesota, no matter what the local say. Molly hates to garden! She’s tried it, she wants to like it, but she just doesn’t! She wrote about it a bit in her award-winning piece “Cooking’s Not for Everyone,” about how people shouldn’t have to cook (garden) to have high-quality, locally grown, sustainable food. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/16/462-molly-watson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 462: Molly Watson on Harvesting Garden Snails
Sat, July 13, 2019
Chris Rawley on Alternative Funding for Urban Farmers
Investing in small agriculture businesses. Production farming in America is not an easy business path to start on without some help or connections. Appreciating the value of farming after his travels in the US Navy, Chris Rawley realized these challenges farmers face when trying start or expand small-to-midsize farms and decided he could help. He breaks down the basic process for agriculture investing outside of traditional bank loans and the benefits for both farmers and investors. Check out his article too! As a career naval officer, Chris has traveled the world. Over the course of visiting dozens of war-torn and poverty-stricken countries, he began to appreciate the importance of farming to every single person on earth. As a professional investor, he decided to invest in a farm, but discovered that these types of investments were inaccessible to the average person. He created Harvest Returns in 2016 to democratize investments in agriculture. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/13/461-chris-rawley/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests - and check out his article at www.urbanfarm.org/investinfoodsystem 461: Chris Rawley on Alternative Funding for Urban Farmers
Tue, July 09, 2019
Pascale Pearce on Egg Incubation for Beginners
Making the hatching of backyard chickens easy and fun. In This Podcast: If you are not careful, you might find that hatching eggs can quite easily develop into a passion, just ask Pascale Pearce! She took a job that needed her to hatch eggs at least once, so she knew what she was talking about – and now she loves to help others understand the process. She shares some key points about incubating bird eggs and starting the chicks off right. We also include a link to a great article from her with even more info! A native of France, Pascale is a graduate of Bordeaux Business School where she earned an MBA specializing in International Trade. In 1994 in the UK, she started as Brinsea Export Manager and joined Brinsea USA in 1998 shortly after its creation where she was in charge of business development. Brinsea® is a family run business offering bird breeding and veterinarian products. Established in 1976 by an engineer with an interest in breeding birds it quickly became a passion, which coupled with his background and enthusiasm has produced the most innovative egg incubators and brooders available. With 25 years’ experience in the bird breeding and animal intensive care, Pascale enjoys sharing her knowledge of incubation with backyard breeders to make hatching an enjoyable experience they will want to repeat. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/09/460-pascale-pearce/ for more on this podcast, and www.urbanfarm.org/hatchingeggs for her article. 460: Pascale Pearce on Egg Incubation for Beginners
Sat, July 06, 2019
Jason Bradford on Rural Living as our Future
Expecting that ruralization is the next evolution. In This Podcast: Studying the changes in shifting populations, Jason Bradford is predicting the trend for urban growth is going to reverse. He breaks down why our energy dependency is indicating a reversal, why technology is creating discounted problems, and more importantly why personal action toward energy literacy and resilience is critical. He talks about what to do as the approaching change draws near. Jason has been affiliated with Post Carbon Institute since 2004, first as a Fellow and then as a Board Member. He graduated from U.C. Davis with a B.S. in biology before earning his doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis, where he also taught ecology. He’s worked for the Center for Conservation and Sustainable Development at the Missouri Botanical Garden, was a Visiting Scholar at U.C. Davis, and co-founded the Andes Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research Group. After all that, Jason shifted from academia to learn more about and practice sustainable agriculture. completed training with Ecology Action (aka GrowBiointensive) in Willits, California, and founded Brookside School Farm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/06/459-jason-bradford/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 459: Jason Bradford on Rural Living as our Future
Tue, July 02, 2019
Stacey Murphy on the Superfood Garden Summit
Bringing concentrated, jam-packed garden education to life. Her passion for bringing people together in educational garden summits is quite evident when you listen to Stacey Murphy tell us what she has planned this year. She explains why she started presenting her summits and some of the exciting results she’s getting in return. She also talks about how food dies, nutrients are lost every day and what you can do about it. Her collection of experts will be covering several topics related to growing superfoods in your garden. Stacey has helped tens of thousands of new gardeners from six continents grow vegetables and herbs in small spaces, and enjoy a green lifestyle nourished with fresh, homegrown food. With her holistic garden system, she teaches what to grow in any climate. Stacey is a garden geek, growing food since 1979, and her superpower is packing, literally, tons of vegetables and herbs into tight spaces. Featured on Martha Stewart Radio and PBS’s Growing a Greener World, Stacey believes growing food organically is the best health plan for people, communities, and the earth. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/07/02/458-stacey-murphy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 458: Stacey Murphy on the Superfood Garden Summit
Sat, June 29, 2019
Dave Hunter on Native Bees
Developing a relationship between primary pollinators and growers. Realizing that his apple trees were barely producing compared to his neighbors, Dave Hunter found the answer was mason bees. His hobby increased his harvest, and eventually his new passion developed into a brand-new industry and a new company. Now he is working hard to educate how mason bees and leaf cutter bees are a significant pollination solution. His goal is to build more native bee industries around the world. Dave is the founder and owner of Crown Bees, a native bee company in Woodinville, WA that sells bees and products online, to nurseries and farmers. His experience with mason bees extends over two decades. Dave founded the commercial mason bee industry, Orchard Bee Association, and works with researchers to ensure that what Crown Bees practices is both ethical for the bee and efficient for the farmer/gardener. He co-authored the book The Mason Bee Revolution, and speaks to gardeners, farmers, and researchers throughout the year. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/29/457-dave-hunter/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Also - Check out Dave’s post on our Blog: The Future of Food ~ Native Bees This contest period has expired. 457: Dave Hunter on Native Bees
Tue, June 25, 2019
Raven Venturelli on Permaculture for the Small Farm
Bringing a whole system approach of design and nature to the farm. In This Podcast: Taking a permaculture course as a young adult gave Raven Venturelli the confidence and inspiration to start her own farm. However, finding land in California to develop her nature-based farming concepts was difficult so she followed her parents and moved to Arizona. She has used her holistic design methodology to build a farming business the way she wants and the quality and diversity of produce at Blue Apple Farm has developed a following at the local farmer’s market. Raven is a small farmer and activist for environmental and social justice. She has been studying Permaculture Design for ten years and manages Blue Apple Farm in Cornville, Arizona. She is on the board of the Sedona-based non-profit, Gardens for Humanity, on the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance Teaching Team, and runs the Verde Valley Seed Library. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/25/456-raven-venturelli/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 456: Raven Venturelli on Permaculture for the Small Farm
Sat, June 22, 2019
Devon Young on Medicinal Remedies
Creating healing tonics from common and locally foraged plants. In This Podcast: Growing up in a plant based family and then struggling with health concerns it felt natural for Devon Young to turn to herbals remedies for wellness and relief. When she started noticing results, she focused on helping others as expanded her knowledge through studies and training. She shares some key details about how to make typical remedies and why her new book is jam packed with details on 50 North American herbs. Devon, founder of the holistic lifestyle blog Nitty Gritty Life, is a trained herbalist and is well practiced in developing and implementing herbal remedies. She has a degree in Complementary and Alternative Medicine from The American College of Healthcare Sciences, and is the author of THE BACKYARD HERBAL APOTHECARY . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/22/455-devon-young/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 455: Devon Young on Medicinal Remedies
Bonus · Tue, June 18, 2019
Seed Saving Class May 2019
Bonus Episode 28: Seed Saving Class May 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: Once again we join a conversation with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson to learn about growing from seed, growing for seed, and why our seeds are so important in these changing times. This is the replay of the May 2019 Seed Saving Class - In this class he covers seed school, how to become a teacher, allowing plants to go to seed, and of course a few more things as well. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/18/bonus28/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 15, 2019
Matt Smith on Improving Family Life with a Garden.
Finding joy and adventure in the backyard with kids and nature. In This Podcast: We welcome back Matt Smith from Smith House Design to hear more about improving family life with a garden. Matt and his wife have created a learning environment in their backyard full of fruit trees and plants. Now, their children prefer nature over screen time. He shares his secrets to gardening with kids and how to make your neighbors never want to leave your backyard. Also, get a sneak peek on Matt's farm to table project and how it will revolutionize their cooking! Matt is the creative force behind Smith House Design, an influential marketing and design agency here in Phoenix. He and his wife Candyce live in South Tempe with their five children and are building a food forest and learning space in their backyard. With such an inviting place, they frequently have much of the neighborhood stopping by. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/15/454-matt-smith/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 454: Matt Smith on Improving Family Life with a Garden
Tue, June 11, 2019
Edmund Williams on Aquaponics with Soil
Merging two gardening systems into one. In This Podcast: What do you get when a civil engineer loves to garden but doesn’t want to spend two hours a day in the backyard? You get a LEHR garden! Meet Ed Williams, the creator of this regenerative, functioning ecosystem that utilizes aquaponics and mushroom spawn. His garden beds are low maintenance, create soil, self-water, and fertilize using earthworms, fish, and chicken droppings. Listen in to learn about the amazing backyard garden that Ed is creating at his LEHR Urban Homestead. Ed is a civil engineer by profession. In his spare time, he uses engineering principles to design functional ecosystems, which he applies to gardening. This practice led him to develop a new method of gardening he calls a LEHR Garden. He is currently building his second-generation prototype of the LEHR Garden and using it as a centerpiece for his homestead and demonstration garden in Tempe, LEHR Urban Homestead. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/11/453-edmund-williams/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 453: Edmund Williams on Aquaponics with Soil
Sat, June 08, 2019
Kanin Rouston on Apple Cider
Making more than just juice from a popular fruit. In This Podcast: Our apple expert Kanin Routson joins us again to help us understand the process of making delicious apple cider using white wine making techniques. He explains the difference between juice, cider, and hard cider, and how the new modern ciders vary from the heritage ciders. We are introduced to Stoic Cider and we learn more about his dedication to apple tree diversity with the RAD project. Kanin has devoted his life, including two graduate degrees, to exploring and promoting apple tree diversity. His latest work has been co-founding Stoic Cider, a local hard cider company based out of Prescott, Arizona. Through the RAD Project (Restoring Apple Diversity), Stoic Cider works to find, propagate, and promote unique apple varieties and to celebrate this diversity through hard apple cider. Stoic Cider is growing and preserving local heritage apples, wild apples, and European and American cider varieties in several orchards on the family farm. They utilize white wine making techniques to create premium, dry, fruit-forward ciders. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/08/452-kanin-routson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 452: Kanin Rouston on Apple Cider
Tue, June 04, 2019
Brittney Schiff on Growing Food and Raising Animals
Having good clean fun on an urban farm. In This Podcast: Awakening to the desire to grow their own fruits, vegetables, and meat, Brittney Schiff and her husband Stephen started with a few garden beds and chickens. Gradually this increased and they moved to a property that allowed them to do more. Now they raise, chickens, ducks, rabbits and goats and their kids are learning homesteading skills too. She shares what she appreciates most about this journey. Brittney and her husband Stephen moved to a one-acre urban homestead in 2015 with a desire to rely less on the grocery store and our messed-up food system. Taking homesteading from a hobby to a lifestyle, she bakes bread, cans food, makes butter and cheese, line-dries clothes, and even has a small soap-making company. They have 28 fruit bearing trees, several raised gardens and plans to add an in-ground 2500 sq. ft. row garden in the next year. They had no previous livestock experience, but now raise 90% of their family’s meat, egg, & dairy needs with chickens and ducks for meat and eggs as well as goats for milk. All this and she loves every bit of it! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/04/451-brittney-schiff/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 451: Brittney Schiff on Growing Food and Raising Animals
Sat, June 01, 2019
450: Katie Critchley on Building a Farm Community
Farming with an eye on the future. In This Podcast: The home purchase was going to be a stretch, but she could not escape the pull. After several visits, Katie Critchley took the leap and this farming community is much more than she expected. The appeal was so strong that her extended family joined her as well. She found herself becoming more and more involved and eventually became the Farm Director at a truly integrated farming community. A one sentence description is impossible – you must hear this podcast to understand, and you’ll be wanting to visit Agritopia very soon! Katie is the Farm Director of The Farm at Agritopia and a long time resident of the nationally recognized and award winning “agrihood” at Agritopia. She is a founding board member of The Johnston Family Foundation for Urban Agriculture, which is committed to promoting and preserving Urban Agriculture throughout the State of Arizona. She has also been a part of the development team at Johnston Properties maintaining and expanding their commercial holdings. Her last role at Johnston Properties was co-project manager for the award winning craftsman community, Barnone located in Agritopia. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/06/01/450-katie-crichtley/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 450: Katie Critchley on Building a Farm Community
Tue, May 28, 2019
Marty Campfield on AZOMITE on the Farm
Focusing on higher yield and better quality in harvests. Earning his degree in agronomy put Marty Campfield on a path that led him eventually to work for AZOMITE selling this unique nutrient dense fertilizer/soil amendment product. He helps explain about the importance of nutrients in the soil, and how different forms can easily break down for quick plant consumption or slowly break down for long term nutrient availability. Marty also shares tips on different methods of application for this mineral rich substance. Marty is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing with AZOMITE Soil Products, LLC, and has served in various positions in the agricultural, turfgrass, landscape, greenhouse, and fertilizer industry segments. He has traveled globally to over 15 countries working with everyone from the growers up to the product formulators. As a former certified professional agronomist (CPAg) and former certified crop advisor (CCA) his experience has included focusing on optimizing soil health and crop production in conventional and organic farming systems. His overarching goal has been to help companies and producers optimize yield, quality, and return on investment in their crops. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/28/449-marty-campfield/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 449: Marty Campfield on AZOMITE on the Farm
Sat, May 25, 2019
Luke Allen on True Breeding Seeds
Stewarding future crops through considerate cultivation and harvesting of seeds. In This Podcast: In the pursuit of resetting his health, Luke Allen took a four-day fasting journey and ended up taking his life in a new direction. Eventually he resettled, started growing food, and seeds! He helps break down some seed terminology for us and discusses the importance of true breeding in seeds. Luke was raised in a small town, then moved to Seattle where he worked doing computer graphics design. After many years there, he realized something was missing from the daily grind and went on a series of vision quests where realized that he needed to work with the land, the water, the animals and the food. Luke studied permaculture, received his permaculture design certificate and started growing food. Sundial Seed is a small, family run regional seed company located in Willits, California to produce hand-crafted market-ready varieties. They work with seed growers to co-create delicious market-ready true-breeding varieties. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/25/448-luke-allen/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 448: Luke Allen on True Breeding Seeds
Bonus · Tue, May 21, 2019
Seed Saving Class April 2019.
Bonus Episode 27: Seed Saving Class April 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: Once again we join a conversation with Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson to learn about growing from seed, growing for seed, and why our seeds are so important in these changing times. This is the replay of the April 2019 Seed Saving Class - In this class he covers grains, disease resistance, and packaging seeds safely, and of course a few more things as well. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, in Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/21/bonus27/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 18, 2019
Matt Smith on Urban Farming and Home Values.
Building up property value with beautiful food growing spaces. In This Podcast: Knowing that curb appeal is important, Matt Smith has applied this concept to his backyard to improve the value of his home. He shares how growing food and appreciating nature has become so important to him, and which historical figures influence his goals for his green space. Matt also explains why home improvement shows can diminish home values and what to focus on to prevent that from happening in your space. Matt was a part of MTV at its prime and starred on influential reality TV shows that helped reshape the entertainment industry. He lived a charmed life in his 20’s, but if you ask him about being a celebrity, he’d tell you that it was a waste of time. Today, Matt is the creative force behind Smith House Design, an influential marketing and design agency in Phoenix. He and his wife live in South Tempe with their five children and are focused on creating a vibrant food garden and learning space for their family. They are in year three of a massive backyard upgrade that is inspiring self-motivated creativity and exploration of the natural world by their entire clan. The Smiths are building an ideal urban farm space while adding value to their home. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/18/447-matt-smith/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 447: Matt Smith on Urban Farming and Home Values.
Tue, May 14, 2019
Kasey McCaslin on Making Craft Chocolate
Grinding out award winning chocolate In This Podcast: Early influences helped Kasey McCaslin develop a love for food and making things, and that eventually led her to try making small batch chocolate to sell at the farmers market. From there she has gone on to develop recipes that have earned her several awards and she shares about the steps and care she takes to make her internationally inspired flavors. Kasey is one of the creators of Stone Grindz Chocolate, a small-batch company driven by quality and craft. She is a self-taught chocolate maker, with a background in nutrition. Her free time is spent playing in her garden, painting, and hanging out with her adorable pup, Finnley. Stone Grindz specializes in small batch, single origin craft chocolate and sources cacao from all over the world, giving customers a glimpse and taste from the different growing regions. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/14/446-kasey-mccaslin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 446: Kasey McCaslin on Making Craft Chocolate
Sat, May 11, 2019
Julia Huber on Gardening with a Plan
Homesteading with a passion and a purpose. In This Podcast: For years, Julia Hubler couldn't find a garden planner that had it all. After running her family's homestead of chickens, goats, and gardens, she put together a comprehensive garden planning guide and journal. Here, she paints a picture of life on her homestead. Listen in to learn why she added native trees back into her orchard, what it's like raising chickens for meat, and how you can win a free copy of her e-book so you can start planning your best garden yet! Julia lives in Arizona on two and a half acres, with HOT summers, lots of cacti and amazing sunsets! She is a homeschool graduate living with her family and every day you’ll find her raising guineas, making dinner, milking goats, and writing about it all. You can find her at ReformStead.com. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/11/445-julia-hubler/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 445: Julia Huber on Gardening with a Plan
Tue, May 07, 2019
Sara Wolters on Healthy, Homemade Jams & Jellies.
Taking fruits and berries to make tasty results. In This Podcast: What do you do with the abundance of fruit from your yard? Making jams and jellies are an easy solution. Sara Wolters from Pomona's Universal Pectin shares how their fruit-based pectin allows you to create delicious preserves with little to no added sugar. She also shares about the pectin industry, the recipe and video resources they have available to the public, methods of making jams with young kids, and additional uses for pectin. Sara and her husband own and operate Pomona’s Universal Pectin. Pomona Pectin has been around for 39 years, and they’ve owned the business for just over 2 years now. They have two sons and live right next to Yosemite National Park. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/07/444-sara-wolters/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period is expired. 444: Sara Wolters on Healthy, Homemade Jams & Jellies.
Sat, May 04, 2019
Jason Johns about Growing Tomatoes.
Growing delicious produce - in the garden, an allotment, or in the greenhouse! In This Podcast: Jason Johns is the author of 18 books on gardening. Here, he shares everything anybody needs to know about growing tomatoes! From the ideal soil, varieties, conditions, and pruning you'll be ready to plant amazing tomatoes. We also discussed common pests and what to do about them, as well as his first failure with tomatoes and what he learned from the experience. Jason plants something new each year. As a bonus, he also shared some of his other growing experiences! Jason is the author of Growing Tomatoes: Your Guide to Growing Delicious Tomatoes at Home , as well as 17 other self-published gardening books on everything from greenhouse gardening to growing giant pumpkins. Jason is passionate about gardening, having grown his own produce for over twenty years. He started with a second-hand greenhouse, an 8’ by 6’ patch of his mother’s garden, and far too many tomato plants. After turning the greenhouse into a tomato farm, he was hooked at the taste of the first ripe tomato. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/05/04/443-jason-johns/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 443: Jason Johns about Growing Tomatoes.
Tue, April 30, 2019
Emily Heller on Growing Food for Locals and Small Restaurants
Living the good life while selling from a small farm. In This Podcast: How does one become a farmer when you haven't gone to school for agriculture? Emily Heller did just that using local education programs and opportunities. Here, she discusses successful selling as a small space producer, parameters for success in gardening, and some of her best practices. She also speaks to the emotional journey of farming and how to handle the imperfections and challenges. Emily also shares how to educate customers at Farmers Markets and build repeat clients. Tempe, Arizona grower Emily is a student of Mother Nature’s. Since moving to Arizona in 1998, she’s been growing food and studying the low-desert seasons as a backyard gardener. A former journalist, she shifted gears in 2014 and became a master gardener — then completed beginning farmer programs in Maricopa and Pinal counties. She went on to sell her produce at farmers markets through the local growers’ co-op, Community Exchange. Now she leases farmland in Queen Creek, has scaled up production and has her own booth at Uptown Farmers Market in Phoenix. The name of her farming adventure is Bene Vivendo. That translates from Latin to “the good life.” Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/30/442-emily-heller/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 442: Emily Heller on Growing Food for Locals and Small Restaurants.
Sat, April 27, 2019
Jill Shea as a Woman in the World of Aquaponics.
Finding purpose in educating about indoor farming. In This Podcast: We had the pleasure of talking aquaponics with Jill Shea from Trifecta Ecosystems. Trifecta Ecosystems practices sustainable farming in their aquaponics farm and educates the community to grow their own food as part of the City that Feeds Itself initiative. In addition to the great community programs, we dove into how aquaponics works, is lower cost, uses less land and conserves water. The AgTech field is growing tremendously, with several great opportunities for new farmers. www.urbanfarm.org/jillshea Jill’s farming story started in Orlando, Florida in exchange for free herbalism classes. Since 2006 she has been fortunate enough to both tend land and teach a variety of growing styles all over the US. She considers it a pleasure to now farm for Trifecta Ecosystems where they help cities feed themselves through aquaponic growing innovation. Trifecta Ecosystems is creating incentives for communities to grow their own food while raising awareness about sustainable farming through education, workshops, and city projects. They do this by empowering farmers in urban environments and educating others on the true potential of aquaponics. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/27/441-jill-shea/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 441: Jill Shea as a Woman in the World of Aquaponics.
Bonus · Tue, April 23, 2019
Seed Saving Class March 2019.
Bonus Episode #26: Seed Saving Class March 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: There are new things to learn in every conversation with Bill McDorman. This is the March 2019 episode of a Seed Saving Class - we go back to the basics on why to save seeds, how to start, how to store seeds, cross-pollination, planting diversity, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/23/bonus26/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, April 20, 2019
Akiva Silver on Working with Trees as Allies
Having trees as partners in farming projects. In This Podcast: Akiva Silver spent years observing and learning from nature. He discusses how to partner with trees, talks about his new book, and shares some of his favorite trees. Listen in to learn about the different functions of trees, all the amazing ways we can use Hickory trees, and how to use some of the lesser know varieties in really cool ways. He also shares what it looks like to raise 20,000 trees in a year and when he prefers to grow from seed vs cuttings. Akiva owns and operates his 20-acre Twisted Tree Farm, a homestead, nut orchard, and nursery near the Finger Lakes Region of New York. There he grows around 20,000 trees per year that are raised naturally without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Akiva is the author of Trees of Power, Ten Essential Arboreal Allies, released this month in paperback through our friends at Chelsea Green Publishing. He is dedicated to growing healthy trees, food, and family. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/20/440-akiva-silver/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period is expired. 440: Akiva Silver on Working with Trees as Allies
Tue, April 16, 2019
Garret Hill on Gardening in the 21st Century
Maximizing growing potential by gardening out of the box. In This Podcast: Garrett Hill loved gardening using grow bags so much, he made it into a business. Today we talk about starting a business, the benefits of grow bags, how they work, and some of the cool things Garrett is growing in them. We also dive into the wifi controlled watering system he recommends to all his clients that helps conserve water and integrate technology to improve his farm to table gardening. Garrett and his wife moved back to Gilbert, AZ from Huntington Beach, CA after honorably serving for 10 years of active duty in the United States Coast Guard. As native Arizonians, they both realized that their home state offered the perfect climate for gardening and they began their urban garden using strictly grow bags. Realizing grow bags allowed them to grow vegetables, fruit, herbs, and more far beyond their maximum potential of a standard pot or raised pine box garden, they soon started their business Urban Hills Grow Bag Gardens with the intention of sharing with others this discovery. Their passion and drive opened doors for a new business concept that revolves around water conservation, farm to table gardening, and integrating technology for 21st-century gardening. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/16/439-garrett-hill/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 439: Garrett Hill on Gardening in the 21st Century
Sat, April 13, 2019
Christine Heinrichs on Raising Backyard Chickens.
Building your food system with backyard poultry. In This Podcast: Who knew when Christine Heinrichs told her daughter they could get chickens that it would shape her life into three popular books and a backyard full of heritage breeds? We sat down with Christine to discuss the re-release of her book, different chicken breeds, their characteristics, and what she learned along the way. We also discuss the mindset of raising meat hens and the importance of predator proofing your coop. We also have a special giveaway opportunity for 3 lucky listeners of the podcast, listen in for instructions on how to win a copy of her updated book! Christine lives on California’s Central Coast, in an unincorporated rural community. She has a small flock of about ten hens, some old friends and some newcomers. She holds a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Oregon and belongs to several professional journalism and poultry organizations. Christine started writing about chickens in the 1980’s when she lived in San Jose and got her first hens. How to Raise Chickens was published through Quarto Publishing in 2007, just as the local food movement was starting to focus attention on our food system and backyard chickens became the symbol of local food. How to Raise Poultry followed in 2009 and her third book The Backyard Field Guide to Chickens was published in 2016. This year her first book How to Raise Chickens has been updated and re-released. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/13/438-christine-heinrichs/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 438: Christine Heinrichs on Raising Backyard Chickens.
Tue, April 09, 2019
Casey O'Leary on Seed Cooperatives
Stewarding our seed futures with regional growers working together. In This Podcast: We dove into the world of urban seed saving and starting a seed co-op with Casey O'Leary. She has worn many hats: an environmental activist, farmer, CSA owner, and founder of the Snake River Seed Cooperative. She now supports her bioregion (and the world) with seeds specific to her area and educates on seed saving in her upcoming seed school. Her CSA challenges members to learn how to cook a variety of food, and they educate members on how to prepare and store new items. Casey is a seed freak and urban farmer in Boise, Idaho. On her farm which is called Earthly Delights, she grows oodles of seed crops as well as vegetables, herbs, and flowers for her CSA members. She also co-founded the Snake River Seed Cooperative, which now involves over 30 Intermountain West farmers stewarding nearly 400 varieties of regionally-adapting seeds, which they sell to area farmers and gardeners. Casey loves to talk with others about the wondrous interconnections of the natural world. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/09/437-casey-oleary/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 437: Casey O'Leary on Seed Cooperatives.
Sat, April 06, 2019
Peter Bane on Permaculture
Helping others understand how to plan their environments to work with nature. In This Podcast: Peter Bane is a long time Permaculture advocate. He has served on the board of the Permaculture Institute of North America, ran the Permaculture Activist magazine, and taught permaculture design courses around the world. Today, Peter shares some of the basic principles, how anyone can enter the world of permaculture, and how permaculture is the answer to many social and environmental issues. Listen in for details on his new book and how 3 lucky listeners can win a free copy! Peter has served the Permaculture Institute of North America (PINA) - as a Director, Board Secretary, President, Chair of the Diploma Program Committee, Application Reviewer, and Field Advisor. In October 2018, he stepped off the board to take a part-time staff position as Coordinator for the Board. He holds diplomas in Site Design from PINA, in Media and Communications and in Education from the Permaculture Institute (USA) and from the Permaculture Academy of Britain. A founder, officer, site planner, and one-time resident of Earthaven Ecovillage in western North Carolina, Peter has consulted for universities, intentional communities, religious orders, businesses, farmers, and residential landowners in much of the USA and Canada. He is an experienced builder of, off-grid and solar energy systems, and has implemented water catchment, cisterns, ponds, and waste treatment systems at a range of scales. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/06/436-peter-bane/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 436: Peter Bane on The World of Permaculture.
Tue, April 02, 2019
Joel Karsten on The Six Bale Greenhouse
Starting the spring farming season as much as 6 weeks early. In This Podcast: Joel Karsten revolutionized the gardening world when he introduced the world to Straw Bale Gardening. Now, this best-selling author is back to blow our minds with the 6 Bale Greenhouse. Joel describes for our listeners how we can make a greenhouse for under $100 that can fit 360 vegetable starts. Using this temporary greenhouse allows us to start our garden 6 weeks early and turns into a trellis system for our plants. Listen in for a chance to win his new book! Joel is a farm boy who grew up tending a soil garden, shook up the gardening world with his first book describing his breakthrough Straw Bale Gardening concept. The New York Times called Straw Bale Gardening “a revolutionary gardening method” and his ideas have been enthusiastically embraced globally, making his books best-sellers in many languages. Joel earned a BS in Horticulture from the University of Minnesota and spends his summers tending his vegetable garden, doing research, and experimenting with new ideas and methods he can pass along. Joel has inspired tens of thousands of first-time gardeners and a legion of “seasoned” growers who have found a new and better way to pursue their passion. His methods have enabled “retired” gardeners to begin gardening again since it eliminates some physical challenges found in traditional soil gardening. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/04/02/strawbale/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 435: Joel Karsten on The Six Bale Greenhouse
Sat, March 30, 2019
Stephanie Lucas on Recipe Delivery for Kids
Encouraging family bonding, healthy habits & creative confidence for young cooks. In This Podcast: Give Garden is a recipe delivery service that teaches kids STEM skills and healthy eating habits. Stephanie Lucas, the program's creator, used her 15 years as a corporate nutritionist to create this Give Garden to encourage family bonding and build confidence in young cooks. Inadvertently, she is helping community members by creating jobs and using local resources in a new, innovative way. Listen in to learn about the monthly box and how to get a discount on your first one! www.urbanfarm.org/givegarden Stephanie grew up as a competitive gymnast where she learned first-hand that the body required the proper fuel to feel good and perform at its peak potential. Luckily, she was blessed with parents that loved to cook and a grandmother who had a passion for gardening. It is no surprise that she dedicated her college years to studying human nutrition and her career of planting the seed of proper nutrition with others. After spending 15 years in the nutrition operations for hospitals and schools and now the mother of 2 young children and the wife of a busy firefighter, she is deeply dedicated to encouraging families to make healthy choices in their own homes. As the Executive Director of Give Garden, a recipe delivery service for kids, she launched that dream into reality. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/30/434-stephanie-lucas/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 434: Stephanie Lucas on Recipe Delivery for Kids
Bonus · Tue, March 26, 2019
Bonus Episode 25: Seed Saving Class February 2019
Bonus Episode #25: Seed Saving Class February 2019. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the February 2019 episode of a Seed Saving Class - with Special Guest Belle Starr. Listen and learn about highlights from the epic February 2019 Seed Summit, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/26/bonus25/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 23, 2019
Rob Horton on Food Sensitive Communities
Improving geographic, economic, and informational access to healthy foods for residents in food deserts. In This Podcast: What is it like growing up without fresh, healthy food available? Rob Horton used his experience living in a food desert as motivation for creating Trap Garden. In this community garden in Nashville, he is teaching kids, community members, and college students not only how to grow their own fresh food, but how to cook healthy meals using their garden. His garden offers innovative solutions to the physical, financial, and educational shortcomings in food-insecure communities. Robert "Rob Veggies" Horton is the Founder and Executive Director of the trap Garden established in Nashville, Tennessee. Rob's motivation as an urban farmer and community health activist stems from his own experiences growing up in a St. Louis, Missouri neighborhood with few fresh, healthy food items. Then, moving to Nashville to attend Tennessee State University, Robert was frustrated with having to drive miles away from home for a grocery store that supplied quality, fresh products. Rob received his Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN, and Master of Business Administration from Belmont University in Nashville, TN. Trap Garden is a social enterprise that provides a sustainable source of healthy, high quality foods and offers innovative solutions to the physical, financial, and educational shortcomings in food insecure communities. Their mission is to help build, sustain, and empower low-income communities by assisting in the creation of community gardens and the promotion of healthy eating. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/23/433-rob-horton/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 433: Rob Horton on Food Sensitive Communities
Tue, March 19, 2019
John Wann-Ángeles on Place Making on an Urban Farm
Cultivating a community with a non-profit urban farming project. In This Podcast: John Wann-Ángeles is building the south Phoenix farming community in a big way! He shares with us how a school project turned into a community farming effort that now involves a 19-acre piece of land and a local farmers market. Listen in to learn about community farming opportunities and programs available to support small farmers in south Phoenix. John also shares tips for selling at a farmers market, creating healthy soil, and a local weed that is actually an edible crop. John Wann-Ángeles is the Director of the Orchard Community Learning Center and Incubator Farm Coordinator at Spaces of Opportunity. The Orchard also manages the Spaces Farmers Market. They are a non-profit in south Phoenix founded in 2011. Their work centers on urban food systems, organic farming, STEA3M programs for youth, and economic justice in the local economy. John is an educator by profession, serving 22 years as principal of Valley View Elementary School in the Roosevelt School District. The dual language, K-8 school specializes in a project-based and multi-aged learning opportunities which included gardens and adventures in the creation of an edible landscape on the campus where some of the trees were donated by The Urban Farm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/19/432-john-wann-angeles/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 432: John Wann-Ángeles on Place Making on an Urban Farm.
Sat, March 16, 2019
Laurie Ouding on Food Inequity and Kids’ Health
Educating kids and parents on the role food plays in their health. In This Podcast: Laurie Ouding is working to revolutionize the food system on the south side of Chicago. Through her work as a nurse, she identified the need for healthy, affordable, and available food in local neighborhoods. Now, Laurie is working with local educators to teach kids and their families healthy food habits through gardening and cooking at home. Listen in to hear about her amazing plans to build a year-round farmers market and empower her community to grow nutritious food near home! Laurie Ouding is an RN currently working at Rush University Medical center as a pediatric nurse. She was raised in rural Michigan where she spent much of her like working in cultivation of gardens, raising her three daughters and active volunteer organizations and nursing. Working with local community organizations, she is moving toward opening an indoor, year-round farmers market, greenhouse with vertical hydroponics, and a spirulina farm. Her south side Chicago project will employ commercial kitchen facilities to provide inner-city communities a path to prosperity through self-enabled, local food industries. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/16/431-laurie-ouding/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 431: Laurie Ouding on Food Inequity and Kids' Health
Tue, March 12, 2019
Lee Perry on Fleet Farming
Helping urban farmers grow food in other people's yards. In This Podcast: Lee Perry passionately shares the progress of the Fleet Farming movement and how it is strengthening Florida communities. This collective farming movement is an awesome way for gardening novices and interns to get hands-on gardening education while helping the community. Listen in to learn more about this fun, positive community experience, how it converts lawns to edible landscapes, and how you can get involved! Lee Perry is currently the Fleet Farming Director, which is her passion occupation. She has her bachelor's degree in Environmental Science from the University of Central Florida. Seasonally, she teaches children at an ecology camp at the Ed Yarborough Geneva Wilderness Area and was on the board of the Cuplet Fern Native Plant Society. Fleet Farming has a mission to empower all generations to grow food to increase local food accessibility. Their program minimizes the ecological footprint of agriculture by converting lawns into micro-farms and increasing fresh produce accessibility while training the next generation of American farmers. To Lee, Fleet Farming is a true solution to shift our culture and change the cycle of food. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/12/430-lee-perry/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 430: Lee Perry on Fleet Farming
Sat, March 09, 2019
Thomas Tuoti on Growing Mushrooms at Home
Minimizing food waste and improving soils by growing fungi. In This Podcast: We learn the ins and outs of growing mushrooms at home with Thomas Tuoti. Listen in for the difference between mushrooms and mycelium as well as how to use them to build your soil. Mushrooms are the composting tool we never knew we needed, and Tom shares how to harness the biological efficiency of mushrooms, use them to enrich your landscape, and how to start growing them at home. Thomas Tuoti practices permaculture at his home, or as he calls it "The Homestead," in Mesa, Arizona. He has been doing urban agriculture for 8 years; but before he ever stuck a shovel in the ground, he became interested in mushrooms and how they can be used to mitigate food waste and improve soils. He now manages edible landscape projects in the greater Phoenix area and is developing an at home mushroom kit so people can grow their own. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/mushroomtom for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 429: Thomas Tuoti on Growing Mushrooms at Home
Tue, March 05, 2019
Chad Chase on Urban Farming as a Business
Building an urban farm dream. In This Podcast: We are joined by Chad Chase, co-owner of Arrandale Farm and Urban Grounds Coffee Company. Chad has built his 2.5-acre farm from scratch, and now farms fruit trees, field crops, alpacas, and chickens. Listen in to hear how he's building his urban farm dream and how he hopes to impact his community in the future! Chad Chase is the co-owner of Urban Grounds Coffee Company, a full-service coffee shop on wheels sourcing ethical, natural, local and wholesome products and ingredients. He is also a co-owner operator of Arrandale Farms, a two-acre farm in NW Phoenix that focuses on various fruit trees, field crops and chicken eggs. They currently sell farm fresh eggs at the Phoenix Public Market and the Ahwatukee Farmers Market, and in the coming months will be adding fresh fruit and vegetables as well. Chad has a Certificate of Entrepreneurship from Kirkwood Community College in Iowa, an Advanced Diploma in Mortuary Science from Des Moines Community College, and a bachelor's degree in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/05/428_chad_chase/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 428: Chad Chase on Urban Farming as a Business
Sat, March 02, 2019
Zach Berry on Edible Cacti
Savoring the delicious tastes of thorny cacti. In This Podcast: Zachery Berry from the Homestead Cactus Sanctuary teaches us about the edible cacti that grow naturally in Arizona. Listen in to learn about growing cacti at home and when and how to harvest them. Zach also shares tips on pollinating cacti, edible varieties of cactus, and glochids! Zachary Berry is a graduate student at Arizona State University studying urban ecology, botany, and animal behavior. He serves on the board of Homestead Cactus Sanctuary, a local nonprofit that teaches people how to grow and use cacti as food. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/03/02/427_zachery_berry/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 427: Zach Berry on Edible Cacti
Tue, February 26, 2019
Camille James on Organic Farming in Hawaii
Living off grid on a remote section of a Pacific island. In This Podcast: Join us for our conversation with Camille James and learn how she went from working in the tech industry, to owning a juice bar, to living off the grid in Hawaii. Camille shared what it’s like living communally on an off-the-grid farm and all the different foods they grow. Tune in to hear what her day to day life looks like, why she loves it, and how her successes and failures brought her to Hawaii. Camille is a certified Clinical Nutritionist & public speaker living in Kauai, Hawaii. She has sixteen years’ experience in web design, e-commerce development, and social media marketing. And prior to moving to the island, she was the owner of a juice bar and Volunteer Coordinator for a CSA in Bellevue, Nebraska. She currently lives off-grid on a 35-acre organic farm in Kauai, where her duties include design/planning, planting, harvesting, composting, grounds maintenance, landscaping, working in the nursery, and being a chicken whisperer. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/26/426-camille-james/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 426: Camille James on Organic Farming in Hawaii
Sat, February 23, 2019
Katie Fiore on Sweet Potatoes and Fruit Trees
Building a living green mulch. In This Podcast: After a long career in retail, Katie Fiore knew it was time for a change. Part of her future vision was a backyard full of fruits and vegetables. The other part was a flexible, fulfilling lifestyle educating others. Katie discusses changing her life direction at 37 years old, how and why she is growing sweet potatoes, how her travels inspire her garden, and her advice to other novice gardeners wanting to start their own. Don’t miss an episode! Click here to sign up for podcast updates or visit www.urbanfarm.org/podcast Katie is an Arizona native who spent most of her life thinking she had a brown thumb. Five years ago, her first successful attempt at growing food was herbs grown in wine barrels. Since then she has become an Urban Farm junkie. In Spring 2018 she planted 15 fruit trees and bushes in the backyard and has started adding a few raised beds to her garden. A career change this past year has given her the time to pursue a healthier, lower stress life with her new husband Mark, follow her dreams of blogging about all her adventures, and nurturing her backyard food forest. After the Great American Seed Up, she is not only growing squash, herbs, and peas from seed, but she’s also harvesting seeds and building her personal seed library. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/sweetpotatoes for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 425: Katie Fiore on Sweet Potatoes and Fruit Trees
Tue, February 19, 2019
John Jeavons on Biologically Intensive Gardening & Farming (Part 2)
Empowering people globally to build food security while using very little land. In This Podcast: Today on the podcast, we continue our visit with John Jeavons. Part one of this two-part podcast discussed John’s journey into Biologically Intensive Gardening, crop planning strategies, and watering strategies. Today in Part Two we delve into his successes, failures, advice for future farmers, plant personalities, and some of the crops he believes everyone should grow for a nutritionally balanced diet. John has been the Director of the Ecology Action Mini-Farming Program since 1972 and is the author of How to Grow More Vegetables a book on BIOINTENSIVE Sustainable Mini-Farming in use in over 150 countries in virtually all climates and soils. John advises on projects in countries such as Mexico, Kenya, Russia and India, as well as all corners of the United States. Ecology Action has been a non-profit since 1971 and currently has two research and demonstration sites in California. Their mission to teach people worldwide to better feed themselves while building and preserving the soil and conserving resources through the GROW BIOINTENSIVE closed-loop small scale agricultural system. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/19/424-john-jeavons/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 423: John Jeavons on Biologically Intensive Gardening & Farming (Part 2)
Sat, February 16, 2019
John Jeavons on Biologically Intensive Gardening & Farming (Part 1)
Empowering people globally to build food security while using very little land. In This Podcast: Biologically Intensive Gardening allows farmers to grow more food, with less water, in a sustainable way. In this podcast, we speak with John Jeavons who has been a Bio Intensive pioneer for over 50 years. An Arizona native, his books have made an impact on our own Greg Peterson. He enthusiastically shares his journey, discoveries, and tools to create your own Bio Intensive Garden. John has been the Director of the Ecology Action Mini-Farming Program since 1972 and is the author of How to Grow More Vegetables a book on BIOINTENSIVE Sustainable Mini-Farming in use in over 150 countries in virtually all climates and soils. John advises on projects in countries such as Mexico, Kenya, Russia and India, as well as all corners of the United States. Ecology Action has been a non-profit since 1971 and currently has two research and demonstration sites in California. Their mission to teach people worldwide to better feed themselves while building and preserving the soil and conserving resources through the GROW BIOINTENSIVE closed-loop small scale agricultural system. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/16/423-john-jeavons/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 423: John Jeavons on Biologically Intensive Gardening & Farming (Part 1)
Tue, February 12, 2019
Stacey Murphy on Setting Goals for Growing.
Gathering gurus to help gardens grow. In This Podcast: Growing up gardening side-by-side with her parents helped Stacey Murphy have a solid connection with food. She lost this connection when she went to college and began working as an engineer and architect. Whe she was living in a studio apartment in Brooklyn this disconnection was healed as she realized how little fresh food was in her diet and neighborhood so she started growing food in her tiny apartment and began working with a network of urban farmers. Fast forward to now as Stacey works online with gardeners in her Garden Freedom series and with people from 169 countries who all share the same concerns about their food. Stacey is a garden geek, growing food since 1979, and her superpower is packing, literally, tons of food into tight spaces. She has helped thousands of new gardeners from six continents grow vegetables and herbs in small spaces, enjoy fresh, affordable vegetables, and live a healthy, happy life. She does this by walking eager growers through her holistic garden system, showing what to grow, when and where Stacey offers an online education series with experts talking about different elements of growing food. This year she has organized the Garden Freedom Series with 13 days of jam-packed gardening know-how to help get herb and vegetable gardens started. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/12/422_stacey_murphy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 422: Stacey Murphy on Setting Goals for Growing
Sat, February 09, 2019
Ricardo Aguirre on Water Harvesting & Land Management
Making good use of rain water in the community. In This Podcast: As Ricardo Aguirre was about to become a father, he took stock of his life. Would he continue to work as a civil engineer as he had for 15 years or would he do something that would have a positive effect on the earth? Which one would he be proud to tell his son about? The answer was to bring about more creative and natural approaches to improve conventional engineering. He tells us more about water management and holistic planned grazing to help avoid negative land management issues. Ricardo is the founding member of Holistic Engineering and Land Management, Inc. (HELM) and is focused on creating innovative approaches to improve conventional engineering. He works to integrate natural processes into large scale engineering projects with his primary professional focus to implement functional design strategies to achieve multiple synergistic objectives. Ricardo has a profound interest in reversing desertification through water harvesting and increasing soil organic matter. This can have a measurable benefit to reduce flooding, improve both storm-water and soil quality, conserve water, provide passive irrigation for vegetation, and reduce the heat island effect. Ricardo’s project experience includes infrastructure improvements for communities that have been adversely impacted by storm-water. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/09/421_ricardo_aguirre/ for show notes and links. Ricardo Aguirre on Water Harvesting & Land Management
Tue, February 05, 2019
Ocean Robbins on The 31 Day Food Revolution
Changing the way we eat one month at a time. In This Podcast: Food revolutionary and visionary Ocean Robbins shares a healthy eating program that can work for anyone in just 31 days. Breaking down his plan into four sections, he helps simplify the process. He also discusses some of the major factors that lead to unhealthy eating, and offers some ideas on how to get people you care about engaged in a healthy eating discussion. Ocean is the CEO, Co-founder and Co-host of the Food Revolution Network, and the co-host of the annual Food Revolution Summit . He has facilitated more than 50 week-long gatherings and 100 day-long workshops for leaders worldwide on a variety of health related topics, Plus he is already prepping for the next Food Revolution Summit taking place in April 2019. Ocean is the co-author of Choices for Our Future and Voices of the Food Revolution , and the author of The Power of Partnership . His next book coming out this month is titled 31-Day Food Revolution: Heal Your Body, Feel Great, and Transform Your World. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/05/420-ocean-robbins/ for show notes and links. This contest period has expired. Ocean Robbins on The 31 Day Food Revolution
Bonus · Sat, February 02, 2019
Bonus Episode 24: Seed Saving Class January 2019
Bonus Episode 24: Seed Saving Class January, 2019. A chat with a seed expert on wild crop relatives, biodiversity and more In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the January 2019 episode of a Seed Saving Class - Listen and learn about the importance of wild crop relatives and biodiversity, the February 2019 Seed Summit, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/02/bonus24/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 29, 2019
Nicky Schauder on Growing Food in Small Spaces
Teaching how to garden with limited space. In This Podcast: Struggling with their children’s multiple food allergies convinced Nicky Schauder and her husband Dave to go organic. Dealing with the expense of all this organic food impelled them to start growing it themselves. Thus began their adventure with permaculture and gardening in small spaces. They’ve incorporated many techniques, which they call multipliers, to increase their yield, from 3-dimensional gardening to low tunnel gardening. Among the many bonuses of this lifestyle is the improved health of their children. Nicky and Dave now offer classes to help families just like theirs reap the same benefits. Nicky and her husband Dave are passionate about helping suburban families grow their own food. Together, they run Permaculture Gardens a web portal to help you grow abundantly! In 2017, Permaculture Gardens won the grand prize at the Green Festivals in Washington DC for “Most Innovative Sustainable Brand.” Their work has been featured in the Huffington Post, Permaculture Research Institute - Australia and Green America.org. They also volunteer at their local Title 1 school and started a permaculture garden after-school program for the elementary kids there. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/29/419_nicky-schauder/ for show notes and links. Nicky Schauder on Growing Food in Small Spaces
Sat, January 26, 2019
Kat Grander on Starting a Small Seed Business
Promoting ecological diversity and preserving the health of our planet. In This Podcast: With a passion for growing in her genes, Kat Granger joined a horticulture group, became a Master Gardener, and went to seed school to learn all she could about her subject. Speaking to groups about her vegetables led to selling those vegetable seeds to her interested audience members. This eventually led to her seed business, Seeds of IMBOLC. Kat sees how a disconnection with the earth has led to so many problems with people’s health and well-being and works tirelessly to help reconnect people with nature with her authentically organic seeds. Kat is a Master Gardener and creator of Seeds of IMBOLC, in Fergus, Ontario, Canada where she grows heirloom organic seeds and plants and is a grower for a larger organic seed group. She has been featured on the TV show “Let’s Get Growing”, and in OMAFRA produce videos, spoken at Canada Blooms, the Pollination Guelph Symposium, and at Seedy Saturdays. She is an instructor with the Upper Grand District School District, hosts a monthly newsletter “Home on the Grange”, and enjoys sparking gardening addictions. Kat is a member of Seeds of Diversity, Seed Savers Exchange, and the Ontario Biodynamic Society – plus a graduate of Seed School Online. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/26/418-kat-granger/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Kat Granger on Starting a Small Seed Business.
Tue, January 22, 2019
Building a Viable Small Farm Economy
Farming with an eye on the future. In This Podcast: As a child Michael Foley visited a Montana ranch and dreamed of being a gentleman farmer one day. His path however, took him into academia. After being estranged from the land for several years he eventually found his way back to farming. Today Michael, along with his wife and daughter, farm on their micro-farm, often trading goods with neighbors. He believes that farmers need to think of more than profitability when analyzing the bottom line. Providing for themselves and their neighbors and building networks among themselves in order to help one another should also be priorities. Michael is very proud of his work with the School of Adaptive Agriculture and delights in helping to populate the farm scene in his area with young people from this farm training program. After twenty years in academia, Michael became a farmer. He started in southern Maryland, then moved to Willits, California, where he, his wife, and oldest daughter operate Green Uprising Farm. He is a co-founder, board member, and teacher at the School of Adaptive Agriculture (formerly known as the Grange Farm School), a farmer training and education program. Michael has helped create and manage a community kitchen and small farmers group, manage the local farmers market, and has served as both vice president of the Mendocino County Farmers Market Association & president of Little Lake Grange. And with all that, he found time to write Farming for the Long Haul Published by our friends at Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/22/417-michael-foley/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. The contest period of this episode has expired. Michael Foley on Building a Viable Small Farm Economy
Sat, January 19, 2019
Bonus Episode 23: Seed Saving Class November 2018
Bonus Episode 23: Seed Saving Class November 2018. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the November 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - learn about the seed paradigm and seed history. Listen as the ethics of owning and naming seeds, and other interesting topics are discussed. Join the class! Register anytime for the next class. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/19/bonus23/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 15, 2019
Community Composting
Transforming waste into soil, jobs, and community. In This Podcast: Sarah Boltwala-Mesina, along with other parents, hoped to start a recycling program at their children’s school. This was the first step on her journey to creating Food2Soil, a business that collects food scraps from people and businesses in San Diego and turns those scraps into rich compost. Her company provides services helping homeowners become successful composting in their own backyard, provides hubs around the city for people to drop scraps off, and offers scrap pickup service to restaurants. There is even a wait-list of businesses and breweries hoping to participate. Sarah is the executive director of Inika Small Earth, a nonprofit that started Food2Soil where they train interns in good composting techniques. Food2Soil collects vegetative food scraps from local restaurants then composts the scraps at two urban farms in San Diego, selling the finished product to local gardeners looking for high-nutrient soil. Inika Small Earth is a charitable organization working to enhance the network of community composting hubs across San Diego. Their aim is to build the collective capacity to transform food scraps into soil and jobs for the community. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/15/416-sarah-boltwala-mesina/ for more information and to find our other great guests. Sarah Boltwala-Mesina on Community Composting
Sat, January 12, 2019
John Brubaker on Micro Urban farming
From green lawns to green vegetables. In This Podcast: As his wife and youngest daughter began struggling with celiac disease, John Brubaker believed that the pesticides used on vegetables were perhaps weakening their immune systems. This was his entry into organic urban farming. He began small with 20 beds and has been expanding ever since. John is growing numerous crops in his small space, including artichokes and cantaloupe for home, and kale, spinach, beets, radishes and glass gem corn for the Farmers Market. He is finding great success with his natural farming. John has been working on golf courses for over 35 since the age of 16. He planted thousands of trees and just for fun, would typically have an organic vegetable garden on the golf course for the enjoyment of customers and staff. Along the way he earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Utah State University in Horticulture. In 2013 his wife and daughters developed digestive issues. Because of this he started growing his own vegetables, built a compost pile, implemented no dig methods, planted for pollinators, introduced beneficial predator insects, and so on. Soon he was giving vegetables to his neighbors and he had become an urban farmer. In 2018 he named his micro farm ‘Straw Hat’, rented a booth at a Farmers Market and started selling organic produce. The success was beyond his expectations, incredibly rewarding and now he is planning on retiring from the golf course and going into urban farming full time. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/12/415-john-brubaker/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. John Brubaker on Micro Urban Farming.
Tue, January 08, 2019
Leah Penniman on Liberating the Land.
Challenging the mono-CULTURE of farming. A passion for the soil, the earth and her community started when Leah Penniman began farming at the age of 16. Through the years she has continued to work towards ending racism and injustice in our food system, and also on land reparations for people of color. She and her family have built Soul Fire Farm where they raise culturally important food, delivering it to people in need. They give tours and help train future activists. Leah channeled her passion into writing a book, Farming While Black. Leah is a Black Creole farmer who has been tending the soil for twenty years and organizing for an anti-racist food system for fifteen years. She currently serves as founding co-executive director of Soul Fire Farm in Grafton, New York—a people-of-color led project that works to dismantle racism in the food system. Through Soul Fire Farm’s innovative programs such as the Black Latinx Farmers Immersion; a sliding-scale Farm Share CSA; and Youth Food Justice leadership trainings – she is part of a global network of farmers working to increase farmland stewardship by people of color, restore Afro-indigenous farming practices, and promote equity in food access. Leah has been recognized by – the Soros Equality Fellowship; NYS Health Emerging Innovator Awards; and Fulbright Distinguished. IF that was not enough, she is the author of Farming While Black published by our friends at Chelsea Green Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/08/414-leah-penniman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Leah Penniman on Liberating the Land.
Sat, January 05, 2019
Ben Klempner on Fermented Soil Amendments.
Mixing up a health drink for soil organisms. In This Podcast: When Ben Klempner and his family moved from Jerusalem to the holy city of Tiberias, he researched how to make the soil healthy in order to grow his vegetables. Finding information that was beneficial wasn’t the only hurdle—he was so far away from the products he needed. He kept researching online and seemed to end up with the suggestion of Korean Natural Farming at the end of his searches. He took it as a sign. As Ben began creating products that utilized the fermenting process he realized that perhaps creating these nutritious, sustainable soil amendments for others was what he should be doing instead of growing his own vegetables. Thus, the Galil Soil Farm was born. Ben lives in the Holy City of Tiberias with his wife and children where he owns and operates Galil Soil Farm. Believing that good soil grows good food, Ben is passionate about growing the best soil and helping others to do the same. When not at the farm he can be found spending time with his children in the woods, paddling a kayak on the Sea of Galilee, or immersed in Bible Studies. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/05/413-ben-klempner/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Ben Klempner on Fermented Soil Amendments
Tue, January 01, 2019
William Bruneau on The Genus Sida
Growing an herbal antibiotic. In This Podcast: Bill Bruneau suffered from what eventually was diagnosed as a leaky gut caused by using pharmaceutical antibiotics. Knowing that plants had medicinal powers he searched out which ones were natural antibiotics and came upon limited but intriguing information on the genus Sida. He waited for someone to write a book about this super-weed and when no one did, Bill knew he had to do it. Listen as Bill lists just a few of the many illnesses he uses Sida to treat or prevent. In 1982, Bill and his wife started Bountiful Gardens Seeds, which is part of the small non-profit Ecology Action of the Mid-peninsula. Ecology Action is an organization that has been diligently working to save the world’s soil for the last 45 years, refining and promoting a bio-intensive farming method that actually creates soil while being very productive. While Bill is an herbal hobbyist, medicinal herbs and preventative medicine have been at the core of his family’s health for at least 50 years and when he discovers one that is as good as Sida appeared to be, he wanted to know everything about it. A scientist at heart, he did intensive research into the known benefits of Sida for over a year, seeking out peer-reviewed research on Sida, and in particular studies on Sida acuta. The results have exceeded his wildest expectations. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/01/01/412-william-bruneau/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. William Bruneau on the Genus Sida
Sat, December 29, 2018
Rob Greenfield on Food Freedom Project.
Embarking on extreme tasks to bring attention to important issues. In This Podcast: Rob Greenfield lived a fairly normal American life until 2011 when he began reading and watching documentaries that helped him realize he was contributing to the destruction of our planet. That was enough to set him on a course of performing extreme actions in order to motivate others to change as well. Having already taken three separate bicycle rides across America doing good deeds and showing ways to make less of an impact on the planet, he’s embarking on his biggest adventure yet—going an entire year eating only what he produces or forages himself. Rob Greenfield is an adventurer, environmental activist, humanitarian, and dude making a difference. He is dedicated to leading the way to a more sustainable and just world. Rob has visited 6 continents and 40 countries, lived off-grid in a tiny house, wore a trash-suit for a month, dove in more than two thousand dumpsters, cycled across the U.S. twice on a bamboo bicycle, traveled over 7000 miles from Brazil to Panama relying on the goodness of humanity, participated in a cross-country good deeds bike trek, and shared all this to inspire change in others. His next project is going an entire year without eating food from grocery stores, restaurants, or even eating or drinking at a party. He will be growing and foraging 100% of his food for an entire year. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/29/411-rob-greenfield/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Rob Greenfield on Food Freedom Project.
Tue, December 25, 2018
Lloyd Hardrick on Keeping Urban Bees
Building up a better buzz on bees. In This Podcast: Walking by Lloyds of London with his wife Ashley, Lloyd Hardrick was intrigued by the beehives in the windows of the famous bank that shared his name. Curiosity led to research and research led to the career path that Lloyd and Ashley ventured on—raising bees. Making an impact on their community is the primary goal for Lloyd as he works to educate people on bees and their importance in our lives. As Lloyd says, “We all depend on bees. It’s everybody’s business to want to save the bees.” Lloyd served in the U.S. Army for 10 years. After the army, he became a certified beekeeper and in 2015 he and his wife Ashley founded their beekeeping company. Honey Bee Goode Apiaries, is not just about bees and honey, they specialize in developing relationships with urban farmers and teaching in the local communities about the relationship between bees, flowers, and food. Honey Bee Goode Apiaries was one of the Farmer Veteran Coalition’s 2018 Fellowship Fund Grant recipients. Honey Bee Good plants their hives on urban farms throughout their community. Lloyd was the recipient of a $1000 Tractor Supply donation, through the Veteran Coalition’s program that offers assistance to veterans in the early stages of their farming operations. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/25/410-lloyd-hardrick/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Lloyd Hardrick on Keeping Urban Bees
Sat, December 22, 2018
Tanya Batche on Delicious Low Sugar Treats
Creating healthy, nutritious snacks. In This Podcast: Tanya Batche loved to bake but didn’t necessarily think of it as a career. Looking at the frightening trend of obesity and diabetes, she knew there must be a way to still enjoy, and allow others to enjoy her delicious endeavors. Tanya turned her love of baking into her life’s work, teaching us how to enjoy our treats but making them much healthier. Now you can enjoy her Hunger Bomb cookies too. As well as making these healthy treats Tanya also helps private clients learn to become healthier too. Tanya is a Dietitian, certified in Adult Weight Management with over 25 years of experience helping patients and clients stay healthy. She has traveled most of the country as a Corporate Dietitian overseeing senior living and wellness programs in healthcare. She started baking as a little girl in Ohio, where she used to surprise her dad with treats (she hid) after he came from work. She decided to follow her passion by combining her love of baking and her knowledge of healthy nutritious foods and started her own company! She created Hunger-Bomb Cookies, healthy treats that are delicious and filling while satisfying your sweet tooth, without spiking your blood sugar! In addition to baking and selling her treats at farmers’ markets and online, Tanya also provides nutrition consultation to clients who want to live delicious and healthy lives. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/22/409-tanya-batche/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Tanya Batche on Delicious Low Sugar Treats
Tue, December 18, 2018
Ron Mantini on Homemade Olive Oil
Preferring the taste of fresh pressed over store bought. In This Podcast: Curiosity on what to do with the fruit from the three large olive trees in his new yard led Ron Mantini on a quest to make his own olive oil. Over the course of several years, with trial and error and the power of the internet, Ron has discovered how to make an delicious olive oil. He has learned how to turn the olives on his and neighboring trees into a bright green, fresh and addictive pressed oil, a nice pairing for his homemade bread and pasta. Ron was born and raised in Lorain Ohio, 30 miles west of Cleveland on the shores of Lake Erie. He moved to Chandler, Arizona in 2000 after graduating from the Ohio State University to work for Intel Corporation, which he still does until this day. He is married with 4 children between the ages of 8-13. With several olive trees at his home, Ron taught himself how to make olive oil from scratch. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/18/408-ron-mantini/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Ron Mantini on Homemade Olive Oil
Sat, December 15, 2018
Steve Szudera on Nutrient Rich Soil
Becoming a steward of the soil. In This Podcast: As a contour farmer facing the problem of so much soil washing away in the rain, Steve Szudera found his solution when he borrowed a no-till drill in 1981. He never looked back as he learned how completing warm and cool crop cycles and protecting the soil from damage were keys to healthy, productive crops. Steve shares with us ways to rejuvenate our soil, and even shares how he reuses old potting soil, making it healthier than before. Steve is a third-generation farmer from western North Dakota with over 35 years of no-till farming experience building and maintaining soil health. After realizing that the standard farming practices done before he took over were the cause of the wind and water erosion, and that the soil was depleted of moisture and nutrients, he converted to no-till farming. He learned very quickly that just one simple practice of not disturbing the soil would allow it to rebuild and recover. He now teaches others how to rebuild and protect the natural commodity of their own soil so that they too can become stewards. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/15/407-steve-szudera/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 407: Steve Szudera on Nutrient Rich Soil
Tue, December 11, 2018
Farming for the Under-Served
Managing an urban farm for families in poverty or homeless. In This Podcast: Being a single mother trying to provide nutritious options for her children in a food desert gave St. Vincent de Paul’s Urban Farm manager Nika Forte a great understanding and compassion for the people she serves. She shares with her belief that food should nourish the body, mind and spirit with her clientele as she encourages them to reconnect with where their food comes from as they are being helped by the many services of St. Vincent de Paul. Nika is the Urban Farm Manager for St. Vincent de Paul where she creates programming and community engagement events. Her job also includes managing community members who volunteer time at the Urban Farm, growing, processing and distributing freshly grown vegetables to the homeless community and needy families that they provide service for. Her role in the program is to improve food access and food security in under served communities. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/11/406-nika-forte/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 406: Nika Forte on Farming for the Under-Served
Sat, December 08, 2018
Rhonda Sherman on Worm Farming
Organically recycling through vermicomposting. In This Podcast: Rhonda Sherman, an extension specialist in the Department of Horticultural Science at NC State University, shares how throwing away our food waste is a major problem in landfills, releasing methane gas which is a contributor to climate change and causing heavy metals to be released into water sources. She spends 90 percent of her work time educating people in what to do with their food waste instead, namely by composting or vermicomposting. Rhonda shares access to many of the publications she’s written which can be found on her website. Rhonda is an extension specialist in the Department of Horticultural Science at North Carolina State University, providing leadership for university outreach programs on solid waste management issues through the Cooperative Extension Service. She holds degrees in Environmental Studies and Urban/Regional Planning, and Environmental Resources Analysis with an emphasis in solid waste management. Rhonda’s areas of expertise are vermicomposting, composting, recycling, and waste reduction. She gives about 40 presentations annually and has authored over 65 publications on these topics. Her new book is The Worm Farmer’s Handbook: Mid- to Large-Scale Vermicomposting for Farms, Businesses, Municipalities, Schools, and Institutions published by our friends at Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/08/405-rhonda-sherman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 405: Rhonda Sherman on Worm Farming
Tue, December 04, 2018
Lyndsay Ludden as a Farmer at the Market
Bringing farm products to the local market. In This Podcast: Lyndsay Ludden and her husband Eric wanted to grow real food. They talked about it all the time. This led them to take the bold step to sell their home in Phoenix and find their perfect property in Cornville, Arizona. On just over two acres of land Lyndsay and Eric built their farm from scratch, beginning with chickens and goats. Having more eggs than they could use led them to the farmer’s market. They’ve been working and adding new animals and gardens to the Hoppy Goat Farm for two years now and feel they’ve made the right choice. Lyndsay and her husband Eric started a farm several years ago to raise and grow their own food. Originally their intent was health related however, as “super foodies” they began realizing how much better everything tastes when they grow and harvest it themselves. They now have two large gardens, as well as goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, pigs, and bees. They offer many different items from their farm including fresh eggs, cheeses, mud scrubs, soap and a special seasoning blend. Plus you can find her at the Sedona Farmers Market on Sundays. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/04/404-lyndsay-ludden/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 404: Lyndsay Ludden as a Farmer at the Market
Sat, December 01, 2018
Tobias Peggs on Empowering Next-Gen Leaders
Training future farmers to shape the future of our food system. In This Podcast: Wondering where the bananas came from while eating them in his native United Kingdom was just the first step for Tobias Peggs, as he sought to figure out how to grow the food in his own city that previously would have spent weeks being shipped in from different climates. He was sure he could mimic the plants’ normal environments. Peggs has not only built a working modular farm in Brooklyn, New York, but runs a Next-Gen Farmer training program to help ensure that others are working toward his mission of bringing real food to all the cities of the world. Tobias is cofounder and CEO of Square Roots – an urban farming company headquartered in Brooklyn, NYC. He has a PhD in Artificial Intelligence from Cardiff University in his native United Kingdom. He is a Techstars mentor, competitive triathlete, snowboarder, and ramen hunter. Square Roots grows and sells tasty, nutritious food year-round from their Brooklyn campus of indoor, controlled-climate, modular farms. Their mission is to bring local, real food to people in cities, by empowering next-gen leaders in urban farming—because “the more of us working to shape the future of food, the better”. Founded in 2016 by Tobias and Kimbal Musk, Square Roots is also host to a “Next-Gen Farmer Training Program”—a year-long, hands-on training program that puts participants at the forefront of the indoor urban farming industry. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/12/01/403-tobias-peggs/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 403: Tobias Peggs on Empowering Next-Gen Leaders
Bonus · Tue, November 27, 2018
Bonus Episode 22: Seed Saving Class October 2018
Bonus Episode 22: Seed Saving Class October 2018. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the October 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - learn about Glass Gem Corn, how to be a seed steward, and why corn diversity is so important. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/27/bonus-22/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, November 24, 2018
Ciara Bennett on Premium Homemade Granola
Creating a line of homemade nutritious and delicious snacks. In This Podcast: As a young mother of two, and having just left corporate America, Ciara Bennett wanted something that was going to be helpful and healthful for her young children. An inspiration to start making high-quality snacking granola also moved her build a business around this product while allowing her to keep her own identity. Now she makes Vintage Oats, a line of premium granola with unique & tasty flavors her kids love and so do her customers. Ciara is the founder of VintageOats, a Phoenix based, premium granola company. Originally from Joliet Illinois she has been a resident of Arizona for over 20 years. As a proud mother of a 2 and 7-year-old she was looking for better choices to feed them and her journey was the inspiration to launch her company. She is the creative mind behind all her premium flavors of granola, which focus on healthy, non-GMO ingredients and no artificial flavors, preservatives or colors. Primarily selling at farmers markets and other local events, she is expanding to offer her homemade premium granola products online. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/24/402-ciara-bennett/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 402: Ciara Bennett on Premium Homemade Granola
Tue, November 20, 2018
Duane Hebert on Growing a Healthy Diet.
Homesteading in the Suburbs. In This Podcast: They planted their first fruit tree on a 1/10th-acre urban home. Prompted to look for something healthier, Duane Hebert moved to property just outside of Phoenix, or as he calls it – The Edge of Nowhere. On a semi-urban farm, they focused on growing healthy food and sharing with family, friends and a few customers. With a holistic mindset focused on healthy growing in all areas of the farm, even the chickens get the healthiest diet. And he shares what he has learned. Born and raised in Gardena, CA in the heart of South-Central Los Angeles, Duane grew up a typical urban kid. However, at 19 he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease and underwent 6 months of chemotherapy to save his life. Now a 25-year cancer survivor, he strives to live a life grounded in the reality that what we eat and what we keep OUT of our body is critical to healthy living. In 2004 he and his wife Lori planted their first lemon tree on their typical 1/10th of an acre suburban lot in Northern Phoenix, and 5 years later they had more fruit than they could use or even give away. Then in 2010, a gift of locally-grown apples sparked an interest in seeing just what could be grown in this harsh desert environment. Fast forward 8 more years and the Heberts now run Edge of Nowhere Farm which is home to over 100 fruit trees, as well as laying hens, broiler chickens and pigs. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/20/401-duane-hebert/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 401: Duane Hebert on Growing a Healthy Diet
Sat, November 17, 2018
Eliot Coleman on 30th Anniversary of 'The New Organic Grower'
Being a resource for organic growers for over three decades. In This Podcast: In 1988, Eliot Coleman literally wrote the book on being an organic grower and has been an invaluable resource for organic gardeners and farmers for three decades. He only started growing food because it sounded like an adventure; and he learned how through books and making friends with farmers around the world. We learn who inspired and taught him, how he uses livestock on his farm, how he virtually moved his farm 500 miles to the south for the winter, and more. Eliot has over fifty years’ experience in all aspects of organic farming, including field vegetables, greenhouse vegetables, rotational grazing of cattle and sheep, and range poultry. He is the author of The New Organic Grower , Four-Season Harves t, The Winter Harvest Handbook and an instructional workshop DVD called Year-Round Vegetable Production with Eliot Coleman - all published through our friends at Chelsea Green. Eliot and his wife, Barbara Damrosch, operate a commercial year-round market garden, and run horticultural research projects, at their farm called Four Season Farm in Harborside, Maine. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/17/400-eliot-coleman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 400: Eliot Coleman on 30th Anniversary of 'The New Organic Grower'
Tue, November 13, 2018
Diann Peart on Living in a Chemically Saturated World
Changing the role of chemicals in our homes. In This Podcast: It was not your typical birthday gift but a small collection of home cleaning products, and they changed Diann Peart’s direction in life. She found a path that filled her passion and allowed her to truly make a difference. When she realized the products were chemical free, her passion for the environment and her desire to help others took over and she knew these products needed to be brought to market. She has a special offer for listeners today. Diann has a PhD in Botany-Ecology from Arizona State University. She lives with her husband, 4 dogs and 8 chickens at their urban farm is nestled in one of the oldest neighborhoods in Tempe, AZ, 4 blocks west of ASU. She is also Principal and Visionary at Truce LLC, a Tempe-based company that manufactures and distributes non-toxic household cleaning, pet, and personal products. Truce’s entire product line uses only 14 simple, safe and effective ingredients. Truce products offer the ability to clean homes, bodies, and pets while avoiding nasty chemicals. In her spare time, Diann co-founded the community garden across the street from her home where most of the produce harvested is donated to local food banks. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/13/399-diann-peart/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 399: Diann Peart on Living in a Chemically Saturated World
Sat, November 10, 2018
Brandi Doming on Delicious Vegan Meals
Cooking with 8 ingredients or less. In This Podcast: After several years of contradictory and confusing medical advice, Brandi Doming was worn out trying to help her husband escape the pain of gout. As a new mom and a concerned wife, she sought out the next possible answer and found information on a plant-based vegan diet. This was the first one to give her husband some relief. She started blogging recipes and recently authored a cookbook designed to make vegan meals easy and delicious! Brandi is the creator of the popular blog The Vegan 8. She is also a mom, wife, and designer. Her blog was voted a Top 21 Vegan Blog of 2016 by the hugely popular vegan magazine, VegNews. She’s appeared regularly in Forks Over Knives magazine and was featured in the documentary Eating You Alive . She lives with her husband and daughter in Houston, Texas. Her new cookbook is The Vegan 8: 100 Simple, Delicious Recipes Made with 8 Ingredients or Less . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/10/398-brandi-doming/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. This contest period has expired. 398: Brandi Doming on Delicious Vegan Meals
Tue, November 06, 2018
Michael Bell on Part Time Urban Farming
Being bit by the urban farming bug and loving it. In This Podcast: He was starting off on a vacant property with lots of Johnson Grass, almost no money, and no way to cut it down and remove it, yet this was not going to stop Michael Bell from building his urban farm. He got creative and found a resource to not only help remove the grass but turn it into an asset and deep rich soil in one season. Relying on his creativity, he now has a half-acre farm and more customers than produce. All this and he only farms part-time! Michael is a Physical Education teacher and father of four who in April of 2016, bought a half-acre of nonresidential zoned land a mere 6 miles from downtown Dallas. He started clearing small 1000-foot sections using a weed eater and billboard signs. That Fall he planted his first 30-inch bed with Sala nova and a few cherry tomatoes and became hooked. He now has 67 twenty-five-foot beds focusing on greens, carrots, beets and a couple of other veggies. He hopes to transition from full time teacher to full time farmer in a couple of years. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/06/397-michael-bell/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 397: Michael Bell on Part Time Urban Farming
Sat, November 03, 2018
Marie Viljoen on Wild Inspired Cuisine
Incorporating wild ingredients into every day and special occasion fare. In This Podcast: Her curiosity, her love of gardening, and her creativity in the kitchen, come together beautifully and for our benefit when Marie Viljoen compiled recipes for her new cookbook. She shares how she moved from gardening in 66 square feet to foraging all over New York City. If you are ever in her city, you will want to take a foraging walk with her! Marie is a celebrated New York City forager, gardener, cook and author who has loved edible plants since her childhood in South Africa. She lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband and leads acclaimed seasonal wild plant walks through NYC. In Marie’s new book Forage, Harvest, Feast , there is a groundbreaking collection of nearly 500 wild food recipes and features hundreds of color photographs as well as cultivation tips for plants easily grown at home. This cookbook is destined to become a standard reference for any cook wanting to transform wildcrafted and homegrown ingredients into exceptional dishes, spices, and drinks. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/11/03/396-marie-viljoen/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 396: Marie Viljoen on Wild Inspired Cuisine
Tue, October 30, 2018
Karin Fields on Growing Food in the Tropics
Weathering the challenges of growing food in South Florida. In This Podcast: Growing up and becoming a ward of the state, then becoming emancipated at 17 left a lifelong mark on Karin Fields, so when she started learning how to grow food in one of the most challenging and unique areas of the country, she wanted to help other young girls like her gain those skills too. For twenty years she has been the Edible Gardening Gal and a valuable resource for education about growing food in South Florida. Karin has over 20 years of vegetable gardening experience in South Florida where she installs backyard edible gardens, gives informative talks on vegetable gardening, and educates people on how to grow their own food. Locally known as the Edible Gardening Gal, she loves giving her gardening talks at libraries all over South Florida. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/30/395-karin-fields/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 395: Karin Fields on Growing Food in the Tropics
Tue, October 23, 2018
Brad Lancaster on Wild Food Forestry
Harvesting native foods in the Sonoran Desert. In This Podcast: The desert is full of amazing native plants that provide a rich, delicious bounty of food, IF you know what to look for and how to harvest it, and Brad Lancaster wants you know these secrets. He is excited about a new cookbook that shares delicious and tested recipes for native trees and plants. And these plants are suited to thrive in the hot and dry climates, so they tolerate drought conditions better, while giving other great benefits to all desert residents. Brad runs a successful permaculture consulting, design, and education business. He is focused on integrated and sustainable approaches to landscape design, planning, and living. Growing up in a dryland environment, water harvesting has long been one of his specialties and a true passion. He is the author of a permaculture bible for water harvesting: Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond Volumes I & II and is a contributor to Desert Harvesters’ Eat Mesquite and More cookbook . This new release centers on the abundant harvest of mesquite and other Sonoran Desert food plants we can plant, steward, and enjoy where we live, work, and play. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/23/393-brad-lancaster/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 393: Brad Lancaster on Wild Food Forestry
Sat, October 20, 2018
Gabe Brown on Beneficial Soil Ecosystems
Knowing the secret to building healthy soil. In This Podcast: Joining farming through his wife’s family, Gabe Brown learned the standard, commercialized, industrialized way of farming. Then when disaster struck four times in a row, he reached out to the past for some inspiration. He learned the value of a healthy soil ecosystem, how it affects many of the issues we are facing today, and the best ways to rebuild the soil. Now he shares what he learned in 5 principles that work anywhere in the world. Gabe is one of the pioneers of the current soil health movement which focuses on the regeneration of our resources. Along with his wife Shelly, and son Paul, he owns and operates a diversified 5,000-acre farm and ranch near Bismarck, ND. Their ranch focuses on farming and ranching in nature’s image. The Browns holistically integrate their grazing and no-till cropping systems, which include a wide variety of cash crops, multi-species cover crops along with all-natural grass finished beef and lamb. They also raise pastured laying hens, broilers and swine. This diversity and integration have regenerated the natural resources on the ranch without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or fungicides. Gabe is the author of Dirt to Soil published by our friends at Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/20/392-gabe-brown/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 392: Gabe Brown on Beneficial Soil Ecosystems
Wed, October 17, 2018
Tonya Antle on the Organic Grower Summit
Propelling organic produce from fringe to mainstream. In This Podcast: The story of how organic produce and food became mainstream in our grocery stores is shared by Tonya Antle who was actively driving this change before most of us even knew we needed it. She found her passion in the early stages of the organic movement and helped propel it across the nation. Now there is a new focus with the Organic Grower Summit happening in December, and she shares some very useful tips as a highlight of what will be available then. Tonya grew up on her family’s table grape and citrus farm in Delano, California. From being a vice president of organic sales to consulting about organic ag investments, she has been a driving force in organic farming for more than 30 years, and has received several awards recognizing her work in the ag industry. Currently, she is an adjunct professor of Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Marketing at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, a guest lecturer at both Hartnell Junior College and California State University Monterey Bay, and she is the Co-founder and Executive Vice President of the Organic Produce Network (OPN), which launched in January 2017. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/27/394-tonya-antle/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, October 16, 2018
Seed Saving Class September 2018.
Bonus Episode #21: Seed Saving Class September 2018. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: We are harvesting even more seed information in this chat with Bill McDorman. This is the September 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - seed names, medicinal plants, plant knowledge, landrace, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/16/bonus21/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, October 13, 2018
Catherine Bukowski on Community Food Forests
Building urban food resiliency with more that just vegetables. In This Podcast: A fascination with jungles and forests began at an early age for Catherine Bukowski, and she has studied these ecosystems throughout her education. Then narrowing her focus just on the food forest aspect, she found similar regenerative patterns that work. She brought this to her new book and shares some of what she discovered with us. Catherine is a researcher, author, educator and consultant. She’s worked internationally and domestically in sustainable land use and natural resource management, agroforestry, permaculture, and project planning to strengthen communities. She pursued her passion for tropical ecosystems by earning a Master of Science in Natural Resource Management. Then she returned to school and earned a PhD in the Human Dimensions of Forest Resources and Environmental Conservation at Virginia Tech. At Tech she was introduced to the topic of community food forests, which ultimately became her dissertation research and focus of her new book The Community Food Forest Handbook: How to Plan, Organize and Nurture Edible Gathering Places published by our friends at Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/13/391-catherine-bukowski/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 391: Catherine Bukowski on Community Food Forests
Tue, October 09, 2018
Lena Roos on Religion and Gardening
Bringing together nature and theology. In This Podcast: Her background is in studying the connections of religion to many aspects of daily life and Professor Lena Roos is now focused on how religion and gardening are interwoven in our past and what that looks like in our present. She discusses several key religions of the world, the garden connections, and even how some myths built upon gardening and creation themes. She is asking for input on her current research and wants to know of active faith-based community gardens. Lena is a Full Professor, teaching History of Religions in Stockholm Sweden. She is also an avid allotment grower of vegetables who last year harvested (literally) a ton of vegetables from her 120 square meters in two allotments in urban Uppsala. Originally a medievalist, she specializes in inter-religious relations between Jews, Christians and Muslims during the Middle Ages. Her other research includes topics like religion and volunteering, religion and sexuality, religion and food, and more recently religion and gardening. Lena is about to embark upon a new research project on faith-based community gardens and would like to get in touch with people currently involved in such. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/09/390-lena-roos/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 390: Lena Roos on Religion and Gardening
Sat, October 06, 2018
Dawn Folsom on Village Farming
Healing forgotten children through gardening opportunities. In This Podcast: The forgotten children who grow up in the foster care system often become young adults on the street with no help, no resources, and forced to make desperate choices to survive. Dawn Folsom was caught stealing food when she was hungry; now she is a major force behind several urban farming projects that teach, empower, and build up the community of aged-out foster kids that have gotten dumped into the world. She is offering models of village farms and supportive housing projects to help communities do better with their forgotten children. Dawn is a former foster kid who chose to be a catalyst of change for young people aging out of the foster care system. She became an advocate and mentor 13 years ago and has a passion to help people heal through village farming. having studied horticulture for 19 years she has become an advocate for local food access. She is cofounder of Heartvines Educational Farm - an extension of the non-profit The Village, Easing Childhood Poverty. They are a group of people dedicated to creating positive change for young people through village farming. Heartvines promotes that the garden is the best place to talk about life, through intensive agriculture techniques, collaborative partnerships, and adding inspiration to our spaces. They are creating an opportunity for young people to learn about food access, civic engagement, entrepreneurship, and life skills. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/06/389-dawn-folsom/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 389: Dawn Folsom on Village Farming
Tue, October 02, 2018
Jess Mazour on Building a Resilient Food System
Reinforcing local food and ag in the heartland of America. IN THIS PODCAST: There can be no doubt that Jess Mazour is dedicated to building a better food system – and she is doing it for those that grow food, those that eat it, and to protect the communities and environment that surround farms. Her passion is strong and is a resource for families and farmers in Iowa as she helps educate and empower the “little guys” to work together to benefit the whole community. 388: Jess Mazour on Building a Resilient Food System Jess is a Farm & Environment Organizer for Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, a 5,000-member non-profit. She organizes with local communities to develops statewide strategies to stop corporate factory farms from building. In 2013-2015 Jess worked with a 10-state coalition of farm and ranch groups to develop a new narrative around Food and Ag Justice. Jess also built a citizen lobby team at the Iowa Statehouse to lobby for policies that build a food and ag system that works for farmers, eaters, workers, and the environment. At home Jess is a beginning urban farmer in Des Moines selling heirloom plants, local produce, and other homemade/homegrown goods at a local farmers market. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/10/02/388-jess-mazour/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 25, 2018
Eric & Love on Starting a Daddy-Daughter Urban Farm.
Creating a family run farming business. In This Podcast: When faced with the desire of their nine-year-old daughter to have a cell phone, this family turned this challenge to a fabulous learning and skill building opportunity. Eric Broda has been helping his daughter Love build a business so she has a reason for a cell phone, and that business is vegetables! They’ve even found a couple ‘fairy-godmothers’ along the way to help. Don’t miss an episode! Click here to sign up for podcast updates or visit www.urbanfarm.org/podcast Eric is a part time farmer along with his nine-year-old daughter Love . Together are starting out as urban farmers in Colorado growing flowers and a large variety of vegetables. This project was designed to help Love learn entrepreneurship, patience, hard work, and life away from an illuminated screen. They plan to document the process on an upcoming YouTube Channel. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/love for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Mon, September 24, 2018
Daniel Oladokun-Dybowski on A Community Garden in Casa Grande
Empowering the community by growing food together. In This Podcast: It was his father’s inspiration and legacy that prompted Daniel Oladokun-Dybowski to start a community garden from scratch in a suburb of Phoenix. The work on the soil has already started after several huge donated loads of wood chips. And with the help of others in the community, he’s going to build a food forest that truly will benefit all that participate. It is not a simple task, but he’s up to the task of building a solution. Daniel is an urban gardener with big hopes of solving major world problems by focusing on his local community. He is an anthropologist and social worker aiming to lift marginalized people up and establish a source of free, healthy food alternatives through the community garden being built in Casa Grande, Arizona. Daniel seeks to effectively empower disenfranchised and marginalized people in the community, by teaching those who come to the garden to grow their own food and use the resources around them. He wants to help a target population of children from broken homes, homeless, those suffering from serious mental illness, post-traumatic stress, and the public. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/29/387-daniel-oladokun-dybowski/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. 387: Daniel Oladokun-Dybowski on A Community Garden in Casa Grande
Sat, September 22, 2018
Chris McLaughlin on Heirloom Flowers in the Garden.
Appreciating the histories of flowers. In This Podcast: A delightful interview with a Chris McLaughlin as she helps us understand more about flowers and what they offer to us as gardeners and more. She even shares some tips on some of her favorites to grow. Chris is a Northern California writer and author who has had her hands in the soil for nearly 40 years. She's the author of seven books including, Growing Heirloom Flowers from our friends at Cool Springs Press, A Garden to Dye For and Vertical Vegetable Gardening . Chris' work can also be found in several magazines including Urban Farm Magazine , and The Heirloom Gardener Magazine . Online, she's written for a variety of gardening sites including Vegetable Gardener.com, Fine Gardening.com, and About.com. Chris and her family live on a flower and fiber farm in the Northern California foothills, where they grow flowers, fruit, vegetables and Angora goats. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/22/385-chris-mclaughlin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, September 18, 2018
Seed Saving Class August 2018
Bonus Episode 20: Seed Saving Class August 2018. A chat with a seed expert about Sourcing Seeds In This Bonus Podcast: Finding good sources for seeds can be challenging especially if you are particular about their story or their genetics. This is the August 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - Bill McDorman discusses the process of sourcing seeds and selecting seeds that can help you feel confident in your selections, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/18/bonus20/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 15, 2018
Rachel Petitt on Military Veterans who Farm
Assisting our food-growing veterans who feed their communities. In This Podcast: Rachel Petitt is part of a group that has the mission to help veterans who want to be farmers. This has translated into several grant and resource projects that are empowering veterans to build their farms. She tells about how she started and what the organization is offering veterans all across the country. Rachel worked on small-scale farms for six years after earning a degree from UC Santa Cruz in community studies with a focus on food systems. During her time in the field, she learned the intricacies of harvesting okra without getting itchy, collecting 600 eggs without cracking any, and bunching kale with one hand. Rachel currently manages the Fellowship Program at the Farmer Veteran Coalition. The Fellowship Program enables veterans to invest in the infrastructure and tools they need to feed their community. Here, Rachel administers grants that support veteran farmers in their new careers. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/15/384-rachel-petitt/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 11, 2018
Josh Krenz on Fertilizer from Grocery Store Waste.
Reducing food waste and feeding plants at the same time. In This Podcast: He grew up on a farm, and as a teenager he thought he needed to do something more than just take care of the cows. Josh Krenz went to college, found his way into marketing, and was learning the business end of farming and multi-national distribution. Eventually he decided to refocus his priorities a little closer to home that also made a difference. He tells us about creating an organic fertilizer using grocery store waste and optimized with a specialized metrics system. Josh is the CEO and founder of Vivid Life Sciences, a plant physiology company offering LIFEFORCE as one of their brand products. He knows the business of farming from both sides — from large-scale sophistication and multi-national distribution with companies like Land O’ Lakes, to boot-strapping startups. Farmer Josh follows his heart when tending to his Highland cattle, organizing trips to the farm for local schools and charity events, or helping with his wife’s veterinary clinic. At the same time, he calculates his path forward with a head for business and a vision to bring more sustainability and performance to plant nutrition. He has worked in the fertilizer business a long time and is focusing on trying to reduce food waste by re-purposing it into fertilizer. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/11/383-josh-krenz/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 08, 2018
Lynn McMahon on A Century Old Urban Farm
Building history with six generations on the same homestead. In This Podcast: She and her husband bought his parents’ home and she thought it was just going to be temporary until she could get a place out in the country. Now Lynn McMahon is able to share her gratitude to her grandchildren and with us for the special connection to family and history on this homestead. Even the plants and trees help connect multiple generations together in this EPIC story of multiple generations on the same homestead. Lynn lives with her husband Mike and their Walker Coonhound on their family's 128-year-old urban farm homestead bought by her husband’s great grandfather in 1890 on the outskirts of town. They are the 4th generation living in the house and growing food on a small city lot. They’ve raised 4 children there and now with 8 grandchildren visiting, the 6th generation is connected to the very same land. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/08/382-lynn-mcmahon/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 04, 2018
Elias Martinez on Indoor Farming without Barriers
Witnessing the power of growing food for a community. In This Podcast: It was both a desire to share the gardening experience his grandfather gave him, and the lack of space in his home for anything that could produce enough food for his family that prompted Elias Martinez to start dreaming of a way to provide fresh greens to those who did not have easy access to garden space. His natural inclination to innovate solutions has helped him create a plan for an EPIC style of community garden – indoors! He shares that and more with us. Elias grew up around urban farming & gardening in a rough part Miami called Opa-Lock-a. He is the son of immigrant parents who left Cuba & the Dominican Republic for political and opportunity reasons. As a child and teenager, he was introduced to urban farming and gardening by his grandfather, who fled Cuba during the Castro regime. Elias witnessed the power that growing food for the community can have after his mother presented neighbors with fresh fruits and vegetables grown in their garden. He started Kubed Root to create an ecosystem in which people can grow their own food and make money from it with little to no barriers to entry. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/04/381-elias-martinez/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 01, 2018
Derex Zellars on Plant and Soil Health
Studying microbiology in soil and its relationship to plant life. In This Podcast: There was no one person who set Derex Zellars on a path towards being a microbiologist, but through observing his environment that he developed his enthusiasm. He shares why soil microbiology is so fascinating to him, and why the expectations we have about using fertilizers are leading us away from the truth. Derex holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences from The University of Texas at San Antonio. He has over 13 years of combined experience in the fields of Environmental Microbiology, chemistry and bioremediation. He holds two patents related to these fields and one of his published a journal articles is on the studies of microalgae after herbicide treatments. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/09/01/380-derex-zellars/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 28, 2018
Emily Rockey on Soil, Compost and Planting Mixes.
Stirring up a custom batch of planting mix. In This Podcast: When asked what makes a healthy planting soil for trees and gardens in Arizona, Emily Rockey gets excited because this is truly a passion of hers. As her nickname implies, she loves getting her hands in the dirt and making a medium that others can rely on. She explains how she and Farmer Greg developed their soil mix, why building a healthy planting mix is different for the southwest desert, and why local mixes make a difference. Emily is currently the Director of Sales and Marketing for Tank’s Green Stuff in Tucson, which specializes in “green” landscape debris recycling, construction debris recycling, and more. She brings her passion for both plants and recycling to the company’s composting operation where they convert landscape debris into organic compost which is then made available for gardens and green spaces. Tank’s offers an entire line of organic garden and landscape materials which are “Good for People, Plants, and Planet”; and are available under the name ‘Tank’s Green Stuff’. Tank’s has also just begun offering a new planting mix called Farmer Greg’s Planting Mix, specially designed for planting in the southwest desert. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/28/379-emily-rockey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 25, 2018
Lee Rhodey on Markets on the Move
Following rabbit holes to new adventures and new veggies. In This Podcast: Sometimes it takes a person to reach a really low point in their life before they make the choice to change the way they think. Lee Rhodey had that realization and decided it was time to be look at life differently in order to find her life’s purpose. On that journey she found Market on the Move and discovered that it brings adventure to her life with every new box. Her goal to be an example and share the mindset changing journey is documented in her I'm So Her project. Lee is not our typical guest, but her story is something that I can relate to. Lee reached a place in her life where things were at a turning point. She was unhappy and the grass looked greener in everyone else’s story. She realized she needed to change her outlook and she started the I’m so Her project to help her appreciate what she had. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/25/378-lee-rhodey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, August 21, 2018
Seed Saving Class June 2018
Bonus Episode 19: Seed Saving Class June 2018. A chat with a seed expert about where our seeds come from In This Bonus Podcast: Seeds are grown all over the world and we don't always know where our seeds come from when we buy. This is the June 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - Bill McDorman discusses seed origination, land race seeds, finding unique seed varieties, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/21/bonus19/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 18, 2018
Dale Spoonemore on Easier Home Gardening and Farming
Bringing gardening knowledge to your fingertips. In This Podcast: It was a need to become more mindful and eat the healthier foods he needed that led Dale Spoonemore to the garden. It did not take long for him to get hooked on the flavors of homegrown vegetables. But a conversation in line waiting to vote alerted him for a need to make it easier to garden. This inspired him to teach himself coding to write an app that is going to bring success to many more new gardeners. His passion and drive continue to build this mobile tool, and his family are big parts of the whole project. Dale and his family converted their urban Oklahoma backyard into a food farm to feed their family and built the “From Seed to Spoon” mobile app that makes it easy for others to do the same. The app will guide you through planting, growing, harvesting, and cooking over 70 different foods with information customized for your location. Dale and his family live in OKC with their four children. You can learn more about them on their From Seed to Spoon social media pages and on their website at seedtospoon.net Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/18/377-dale-spoonemore/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 14, 2018
Hilary Boynton as The Lunch Lady
Preparing school meals with gut health in mind. In This Podcast: After growing up believing the only healthy way to eat was “fat-free”, Hilary Boynton was not prepared for the fertility and health issues that plagued her family. Seeking the best for her children, she educated herself on “real-food”, the GAPS diet, and eventually wrote a cookbook with gut health in mind. This path led her to becoming a school lunch lady cooking and educating for gut health to the students. Hilary is a certified holistic health counselor, with a BA in psychology from the University of Virginia and trained at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Inspired by her experience of "food as medicine," she dedicated herself to helping others on their path to wellness as a cook, coach, and professional educator. Seeing our chronic global health problems opened her eyes. The lessons she learned along the way helped to fuel her project LIVE YUM YUM and inspired her to co-author the bestselling The Heal your Gut Cookbook , released in September 2014. Hilary’s passion and determination to empower people to take control of their own health and prevent disease is tireless. Plus, along the way she has earned the title of The Lunch Lady Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/14/376-hilary-boynton/ for more information and links on this podcast, her blog articles, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 11, 2018
Eddy Garcia on Polystyrene Eating Bugs
Finding nature is an ally for waste disposal. In This Podcast: He is always on the lookout to find ways to have a better relationship with nature, so when Eddy Garcia noticed that some beetle larvae were eating the polystyrene cup he put them in, he jumped into experiments to learn more. Using a surfboard in a science experiment, his achieved some exciting and astonishing results. All of this tied into his work to educate others about regenerative systems, and even aspiring surfers in Iowa are learning about earth systems through his projects Eddy, has an E.B.N. or as he likes to call it Educated By Nature degree. With over 30 years of living off-grid on a remote Hawaiian island he has developed a deep connection to Nature. It has taught him fundamental truths that are woven into Living Earth Systems: Observation, Consistency & Patience. Eddy is the lead designer for Living Earth Systems which designs and builds holistic agriculture systems for the future. He is also one of the founders of R.E.C. (Regenerative Education Centers) which demonstrates alternative technologies and approaches to solve some of our planet’s current problems. Eddy educates and inspires to promote regenerative lifestyles. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/11/375-eddy-garcia/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 07, 2018
Anthony Dominguez on Soil Microbes
Digging into the vast world of invisible life in our soils. In This Podcast: It takes a real love of science and soil ecosystems to be as comfortable with microbes as Anthony Dominguez is such that he rattles off names of bacteria species like he is sharing the guest list for a party. This passion translates into a true dedication to making life supporting products for the soil microbiome. We should all enjoy our jobs as much as he does; and knowing how much he cares can inspire you to build a better soil for your plants. Anthony is an Arizona native from the town of Gila Bend, with a degree in Microbiology from the University of Arizona. He is a co-founder and C.O.O. of HiKreations, a company dedicated to bringing beneficial microbes to the world and farmers everywhere. With an organic philosophy and a science core, they have developed a line of soil amendments for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. He has a long interest in microbes, especially in their beneficial properties. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/07/374-anthony-dominguez/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 04, 2018
Aube Giroux on the Documentary "Modified"
Seeking out answers about food labeling. In This Podcast: Returning from a trip to Europe it became clear to Aube Giroux, that food labeling in North America was controlled by a very different set of rules and she sought to learn why. Documenting the process on video, she and her mother set out to learn about the labeling of genetically modified food ingredients, a journey that took a turn when her mother developed cancer. Instead of closing the project, she persisted and the resulting film garnered many indie awards. Aube (pronounced ōb) is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, organic gardener, and food blogger. She is the creator of “Kitchen Vignettes”, an online farm-to-table cooking show on PBS which received the 2012 Saveur Magazine Best Food Blog Award and is a two-time James Beard Award nominee. Aube holds an MFA in Film Production from York University. Modified is her first feature-length documentary, which she wrote, directed and produced. In Modified, the filmmaker and her mother embark on a personal and poignant investigative journey to find out why genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are not labeled on food products in the United States and Canada, despite being labeled in 64 countries around the world. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/08/04/373-aube-giroux/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. #modifiedthefilm
Tue, July 31, 2018
Brooke Sarson on Water Harvesting
Building simple, cost-effective solutions for conserving water resources. In This Podcast: When looking into how water was being cycled in her community, and then looking at other desert-like cities in other states and countries, Brook Sarson was intrigued. California was in a drought and she realized there was a lot of potential ideas and processes implemented elsewhere that could help her community. Brook shares what she discovered about the ‘ethics of place’ and the significance that small changes in a community can have on a whole watershed. Brook is co-owner and CEO of CatchingH2O and H2OME. She started H2OME in 2008 with the mission to be a resource to the San Diego Community for water harvesting. She was determined to create change from the ground up by showing homeowners, educators, and policy makers how simple and effective rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling can be. Her continued mantra has been that individual contributions create tremendous impact toward a larger water conservation strategy. Since H2OME’s inception Brook has directly installed or facilitated hundreds of thousands of gallons of water conservation between rainwater tanks, greywater systems, and landscape design changes. Her engineering background perfectly complements the permaculture design framework she uses to approach design problems. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/31/372-brook-sarson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 28, 2018
Philip Ackerman-Leist on Pesticide-Free Communities
Documenting the first town-wide pesticide-free ordinance in the world. In This Podcast: On a trip overseas, a professor of Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems stumbled onto a story worth telling about the first community in the world to ban pesticides. Philip Ackerman-Leist was able to document this endeavor from almost the very beginning and he shares the reasons why anyone who cares about their community needs to understand what happened and why it is so important. Philip is Professor of Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems at Green Mountain College in Vermont, where he established the college’s organic farm, sustainable agriculture curricula, and the first online graduate program in Sustainable Food Systems in the United States. He and his wife Erin live on a remote off-grid farm in Pawlet, Vermont with their three children, where they raise grass fed American Milking Devons cattle. He is the author of Rebuilding the Foodshed: How to Create Local, Sustainable, and Secure Food Systems and Up Tunket Road: The Education of a Modern Homesteader . His newest book is A Precautionary Tale: How One Small Town Banned Pesticides, Preserved its Food Heritage, and Inspired a Movement , Published by our friends at Chelse Green Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/28/371-philip-ackerman-leist/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 24, 2018
Steve Gabriel on Forest Farming
Guarding forests as a valuable part of the agriculture system. In This Podcast: Being a farmer in these days of changing climate can be challenging, so when a severe drought threatened the livelihood of sheep farmer Steve Gabriel, he resorted to using previously ignored wooded areas. Examining the forest near his home he realized the bounty that he had been overlooking, and sought out more information about forest farming. He now teaches others how to do this natural farming process. There is a bonus on mushrooms too! Steve is an ecologist, forest farmer, and educator living in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. He passionately pursues work that re-connects people to the forested landscape and supports them to grow their skills in forest stewardship. He is an Agroforestry Extension Specialist for the Cornell Small Farm Program and co-owns Wellspring Forest Farm & School with his wife Elizabeth, where they produce mushrooms, maple syrup, duck eggs, pastured lamb, and elderberry extract, all from forest-based systems. The school hosts several educational programs each season with the goal of increasing people's understanding of healthy forests and how they can play a critical role in their stewardship. He is the author of two books: Farming the Woods , and Silvopasture, both published by Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/24/370-steve-gabriel/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 21, 2018
Lanita Perry on Garden Based Education
Actively teaching through growing food at school. IN THIS PODCAST: With a strong desire to share her love of planting, Lanita Perry has brought a Garden Based Education program to her elementary school. Starting with her pre-k kids and all the way up the grade ladder, the students at her school can participate in the planting, growing, harvesting and eating of truly local vegetables. She share with us tricks to making a school garden successful. Lanita is a Special Education teacher at Irving Elementary in Cleeeburne, Texas and teaches in a Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities. She’s very excited about garden-based education and the opportunities it gives her students to learn across all academics in every grade level. Her school garden is funded through grants so she is able to work with teachers and students to create their own garden. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/21/369-lanita-perry/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 17, 2018
Matthew Kozuch on Youth and Sustainable Gardening
Having the perspective and impact of younger generations on growing food. In This Podcast: Early childhood impressions of environmental pollution led Matthew Kozuch to seek out solutions, and while at UC Berkley he worked on several projects with Engineers for a Sustainable World. After graduation he continued with them and became the National Build Day Coordinator. This is the first of hopefully an annual event in more than 50 chapters across the United States. Matthew currently serves as the Build Day Coordinator for Engineers for a Sustainable World (ESW) which he’s been a part of since joining the UC Berkeley chapter as a project leader in 2014. He graduated in May 2017 with a B.S. in Energy Engineering and is facilitating solar photovoltaic maintenance for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. Build Day is an initiative started by ESW creating local sustainable change by bringing together technical expertise and community organizing. During the ESW Build Day event this past April, the chapter met with about seventy other volunteers to help construct a chicken coop, plant a strawberry patch, and create sheet mulching for expanding the Hoover Hawks Victory Garden. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/17/368-matthew-kozuch/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 14, 2018
Amy Stross on Growing Food in the Suburbs
Bringing permaculture education to city dwellers. In This Podcast: After realizing teaching was not her passion, Amy Stross was looking for something to excite her and fill her need for a purpose. She found both of these when she started growing food and writing about her journey. Embracing permaculture into her gardening and her life, she realized how the techniques could benefit others, so of course she shared! Here is her story and a bonus at the end for Urban Farm Podcast listeners Amy is a permaculture gardener, writer, educator, and author of The Suburban Micro-Farm, with a varied background in home-scale food production. As a permaculture designer, she specializes in ecologically regenerative and productive landscapes. Her own front yard landscape is a thriving example, catching water from the roof and growing a variety of edible crops. Her current adventure is transforming a 3-acre property into a micro-farm with her husband and mischievous farm cat. She reaches hundreds of thousands of people with her expertise and adventures in small-scale permaculture gardening on her popular website, TenthAcreFarm.com. Her new book The Suburban Micro-Farm: Modern Solutions for Busy People , is published through Twisted Creek Press and Distributed by our friends at Chelsea Green Publishing Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/14/367-amy-stross/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 10, 2018
Stacey Murphy on the Garden Hack Summit
Bringing gardening experts together in one event. In This Podcast: Sharing is caring, growing, empowering, and a natural part of the food growing community and Stacey Murphy brings several amazing members of the food growing community together in one online summit about Gardening! She explains what the Garden Hack Summit is and why you need to be a part of it this year. Stacey has helped thousands of new gardeners from six continents grow vegetables and herbs in small spaces, so they can enjoy fresh, affordable vegetables and live a healthy, happy life. She walks eager growers through her holistic garden system, showing what to grow, when and where. Stacey is a garden geek, growing food since 1979, and her superpower is packing, literally, tons of food into tight spaces. Dozens of her students who trained at her backyard urban farm in Brooklyn have gone on to start their own homesteads, gardens & farms. Featured on Martha Stewart Radio and PBS’s Growing a Greener World, Stacey believes growing food organically is the best health plan for people, communities, and the earth. You can find her at GrowYourOwnVegetables.org and don't forget to sign up to receive her best gardening tips and strategies. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/10/366-stacey-murphy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 07, 2018
Sara Bir on Foraging for Fruit
Finding bounties of flavor hidden in plain sight. In This Podcast: It was more mostly just to keep herself busy that Sar Bir went to culinary school, and afterward she still found herself trying lots of new things. So it is not a surprise to hear that she stumbled upon fruit trees in the wild and learned she had an interest in foraging. She shares some of the important things to think about when foraging, and how foraging and gleaning can help you meet some of your neighbors. Sara is a seasoned chef, gardener, forager, and author. She graduated from The Culinary Institute of America and prefers to create recipes that draw on her professional skills set yet are realistic for home cooks. Sara’s writing has been featured in Saveur, Edible Ohio Valley, two Full Grown People anthologies, as well as on several websites. Her book The Fruit Forager's Companion is published through our friends at Chelsea Green Publishing Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/07/365-sara-bir/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 03, 2018
Roza Ferdowsmakan on Farm-to-Table Experiences
Enjoying a good meal cooked with great food. In This Podcast: When you are passionate about getting a good meal from locally grown farms into your home, you have some technology experience, and you are community minded, it is likely that you’d create your own app to make this happen for others. After you are done, why not make short films about some of these experiences? Roza Ferdowsmakan has developed an app to create Farm-to-Table experiences for the benefit of foodies, chefs and farmers; then she created a film series allowing others to have a sample taste of what the experience is like. We learn why this is an ethos driven app, and how this is helping the three key players in a great meal. Roza’s goal is to change the way people connect with food, with their communities, and with the earth. As a tech company founder, she created a community-driven, farm-to-table mobile app called bites which launched officially in February of 2018. She also developed two new, related film projects as well as a mural project promoting farm-to-table experiences. Foodie + chef is an indie film series, where she interviews chefs while they hang out in her kitchen and give her a farm-to-table dining experience. Farm Talk is another indie film series, featuring tours of local farms with conversations about who they are, how they do what they do, and what the farmers grow. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/07/03/364-roza-ferdowsmakan/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 30, 2018
Stepheni Norton on Heirloom Small-Plot Urban Farming
Finding healing through farming and growing healthy food. In This Podcast: Coming home from deployment is hard enough without adding a significant disease to the mix, yet this is what propelled Stepheni Norton and her husband to make substantial changes in what they ate. From there, they started growing their own healthier food on a portion of their new property and then started offering it to their community. This developed into their farming business and CSA and more. It’s almost enough to make you want to move to her town so you can participate! Stepheni is a retired Chief Petty Officer and decorated military Veteran with almost 20 years of hands-on entrepreneurial experience. She’s the co-owner and founding farmer of National City’s Dickinson Farm & Dickinson Larder. Her journey to heirloom farming began when she purchased the Wallace Dickinson House while she was deployed with the U.S. Coast Guard Port Security Detachment. Stepheni designed the Dickinson Farm, the first licensed farm in National City since the 1900s. She launched Farmacy, a curated CSA and anti-inflammatory meal prep service designed for caregivers and patients receiving on-going out-patient care as well as for individuals and families on specialty diets. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/30/363-stepheni-norton/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, June 26, 2018
Seed Saving Class May 2018
Bonus Episode 18: Seed Saving Class May 2018. A chat with a seed expert about Why is Our Gut Messed Up. In This Bonus Podcast: Belly hurt? Have gut problems? Bill McDorman and Greg Peterson unpack one of the reasons you could be ailing and share the market explosion of heritage grains that are changing the way we eat and bake. And of course you will find out where to get these precious seeds. This is the May 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class at Urban Farm U. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/26/bonus18/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 23, 2018
Alex Lewin on Kombucha and Fermented Drinks
Experimenting with bacteria and beverages. In This Podcast: Having first come across this drink at a cousin’s house and thinking there was something wrong with the odd beverage, it was not until much later - and with an appreciation for fermented foods - that Alex Lewin gave kombucha a real chance. Now he has a real understanding of the process and teaches others how to make their own. We learn some chemistry, some fun tricks for additional flavor, and even what his new favorite drink as we chat with him. Alex grew up on the East Coast of the US. In his evolving journey on the earth, he’s discovered that one of his gifts is the ability to co-exist side-by-side with friendly bacteria. While others struggle with bacteria, Alex embraces them. Alex is the author of " Real Food Fermentation: Preserving Whole Fresh Food with Live Cultures in Your Home Kitchen " through Quarry Publishing, and the co-author of " Kombucha, Kefir, and Beyond " through Fair Winds Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/23/362-alex-lewin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 19, 2018
Adam Federman on The Influence of Patience Gray
Digging up the story of a slow-food pioneer. In This Podcast: It must have been one well written obituary, because it stuck with Adam Federman and then after he found her book on his parents' shelves he wanted to know more about an almost forgotten culinary star. Ten years later and a treasure trove of writings uncovered, he released his biography of Patience Gray and brings her hidden history to light. Those who loved her book Honey From Weeds will love getting to know her better in his book Fasting and Feasting. He shares his story of finding hers, and leaves us hungry for more. Adam is a reporting fellow with the Investigative Fund at the Nation Institute covering energy and the environment. He has written for several publications including the Nation magazine, the Guardian, and Columbia Journalism Review. He is a former line cook, bread baker, and pastry chef. He has been a Russia Fulbright fellow, a Middlebury fellow in environmental journalism, and the recipient of a Polk grant for investigative reporting. Adam is the author of Fasting and Feasting: The Life of Visionary Food Writer Patience Gray, published through our friends at Chelsea Green. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/19/361-adam-federman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 16, 2018
Sara Matlin on Selling at Farmers Markets.
Building local food systems through community markets. In This Podcast: She was not planning to be a Farmers Market Manager, but that where Sara Matlin ended up and she is passionate about her community. She tells about the Phoenix Public Market and how it has grown to over 100 vendors. We also cover how growers can become vendors with their own booths and how they are supported by the market. There are also opportunities for backyard growers to sell without having their own booth. www.urbanfarm.org/phxpublicmarket A native to the Phoenix Area, Sara is passionate about building community and supporting local businesses. Every Saturday you can find her running the downtown Phoenix Public Market managed through Community Food Connections, a nonprofit organization. This open-air market is open rain or shine, year-round. When she's not busy coordinating vendors or taking farm tours, she's hiking outdoors and exploring the small towns of the Southwest. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/16/360-sara-matlin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 12, 2018
Keiran Olivares Whitaker on Black Soldier Fly Farming.
Composting with nature's own army. In This Podcast: It was a common tilapia being released into the wild that had a profound effect on Keiran Olivares Whitaker. He realization on how ecosystems were being devastated by man’s actions prompted him to try and make a difference. He’s also highly aware of the cost of food miles so he’s been working on a solution that helps in many ways and a method to help build it close to where it is needed. All it takes is an army of single focused soldiers… soldier flies, that is. Keiran is the founder and CEO of Entocycle. He has a Masters in Environmental Design and Conservation, and while working as a scuba diving instructor he was fortunate enough to travel and visit some of the most beautiful places on earth. He saw first-hand the environmental damage that human development and current lifestyles are causing to these paradises. Convinced that we are killing our own planet, and that animal farming is the single most destructive activity humans have ever invented, he started Entocycle as an insect farming company using Black Soldier Flies to provide an alternative. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/12/359-keiran-olivares-whitaker/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 09, 2018
Jake Mace on WWOOFing
Trekking around the world to learn about organic farms. In This Podcast: Starting a new adventure with a minimalist lifestyle and travel to foreign countries is not something readily understood by most people. Yet when faced with life changes and an opportunity to start anew, that is exactly what Jake Mace is going to do. Having sold most of their possessions they are off on a world-wide WWOOFing trip visiting organic farms in various countries. He tells what motivated the change and how they are going to document their experiences. Jake started gardening in 2011 with a peach, fig, pomegranate and kumquat tree to save money on his food budget. He has joined us multiple times on this show about his urban farm, best gardening tips and tricks, and learning from failure. As wells as how he became inspired by his mission to live a life that’s compassionate with a a zero- to positive-sum impact on the earth, particularly through his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. These days Jake is traveling the world WWOOFing and looking for his next great vegan meal. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/09/358-jake-mace/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 05, 2018
Alex Lewin on Fermentation
Transforming food with healthy microbes. In This Podcast: Wanting to know more about healthy eating after his father got sick, Alex Lewin did lots of reading, studying, and research. He narrowed his focus to real foods and transforming food with healthy microbes. Eventually he was quite skilled at fermentation and has enjoyed helping others get excited about this preservation process. He shares with us why this healthy option is worth learning about. Alex grew up on the East Coast where he discovered that one of his gifts is the ability to co-exist side-by-side with friendly bacteria. While others struggle with it, Alex embraces them. As a graduate of Harvard, the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, he seeks to create a healthier and tastier world by spreading the good news about fermentation and real food. Alex is the co-author of " Kombucha, Kefir, and Beyond " and the author of " Real Food Fermentation: Preserving Whole Fresh Food with Live Cultures in Your Home Kitchen ". Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/05/357-alex-lewin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 02, 2018
Jourdain Beltran on Re-purposing Unwanted Land
Making the most of discarded plots for farming and community gardens. In This Podcast: He did not finish college, but that has not stopped Jourdain Beltran from pursuing knowledge and growing healthy food. He found a great business partner and together they are improving access to healthy food in local food deserts. They are also tackling the problem of healthy eating by teaching the youth in these areas about where good food comes from and starting good habits early! Jourdain is an Arizona native who started gardening by growing jalapeño plants with his grandfather. He is the co-founder of Urban Farming Organics, who are looking to overcome the food desert crisis in Arizona. Their mission is a “fresh off the vine” concept to make nutrient dense produce easily accessible to Phoenix locals. Part of that is working with local youth helping this next generation learn good, healthy, eating habits. Early on they saw the potential of vacant land as space for small gardens, specifically to help local residents to get fresh food with higher nutritional value. UFO is working to find local vacant or unused land by contacting the owners to start repurposing the land for farming or community gardening. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/06/02/356-jourdain-beltran/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 29, 2018
Sowan Thai on Cultivating as Millennial Farmers.
Becoming the next generation of urban farmers. In This Podcast: Raised by two farmers, Sowan Thai wanted to do anything else with his life. Yet pursuing a degree in science led him back to his roots and now he's proud to call himself a farmer. A post-college stint in a medical marijuana science lab, steered him into growing food with a new friend and partner. As new farmers, they participated in a couple ASU Venture Devils Pitch contests and won both times. Now they are building their urban farm and teaching young kids how to grow food. Sowan was born and raised in Phoenix, leaving just long enough to earn a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the University of Arizona in Tucson. There he studied controlled environment agriculture, plant biochemistry, and genetics. He returned to Phoenix and did tissue culture research at a medical cannabis facility, where he would meet his future business partner Jourdain Beltran. After about a year, they decided to depart from the medical marijuana industry to start an urban farm together with their third partner. Beginning with only 2000 square feet, they were able to build a proof-of-concept urban farm and competed in ASU’s Venture Devils program, winning two rounds of substantial funding. Less than a year later, they have expanded their operation to an acre, supply several farmers markets, and share their knowledge and experience with the youth. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/29/355-sowan-thai/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 26, 2018
James Ross on Value of Community Gardens.
Empowering a community's strength and resilience through gardening. In This Podcast: If you just can’t help yourself and tend to get involved in your community, then you might be just like James Ross. He has a natural drive to help others and that often involves community gardens. James shares the story of the first garden he helped build which became quite long after everyone participated. He also tells what he learned when negotiating leases for the land their gardens occupied. Overall, the harvests are much greater than just the fruits and vegetables – so maybe there are other gardens around the corner. James, a father of five and grandfather of eight, is co-founder of the Quesada “kwe-seda” Gardens Initiative, QGI, a private, non-profit organization focusing on better health and quality of life in Bayview. He and co-founder Jeffrey Betcher have helped to fund and nurture many community-building efforts; working with other foundations within Bayview Hunters Point to form a support network for the community. QGI has started two major community gardens, one is a place for people to sit and relax, and the other is a learning garden where community children learn how to grow food from seed to harvest. The initiative also runs a free build-a-backyard garden program called BayBloom. He now lives in Danville, KY where he has founded 3 community gardens. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/26/354-james-ross/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, May 22, 2018
Seed Saving Class April 2018
Bonus Episode 17: Seed Saving Class April, 2018. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the April 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - Bill calls in from Cornville, AZ to talk about wild seeds, native seeds, noxious weeds, and so much more based on listener questions. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , in Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/22/bonus17/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 19, 2018
Homestead Phil & Jenn Tompkins on Chickens for Eggs.
Bringing a simple food source closer to the table. In This Podcast: After moving to a rural life, and googling crazy business ideas, Phil and Jenn Tompkins started a business helping people rent their chickens. This idea has taken off greatly and now as Homestead Phil and Jenn they help others start their own business with a supportive affiliate process. They are eggscited to share their enthusiasm and some awesome stories! Homestead Phil & Jenn are the co-founders of Rent The Chicken. This rapidly growing chicken rental service started in 2013 as a part-time avenue of supplemental income and has grown to have more than 45 farmers and homesteaders renting chickens as an extension of their farms in the United States and Canada. Rent The Chicken is more than just a bunch of farmers and homesteaders building chicken coops and delivering chickens. Homestead Phil & Jenn are dedicated to being your chicken friends, helping to change local jurisdictions to allow backyard hens, and bringing one step of sustainable agriculture through fresh eggs closer to your table. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/19/353-phil-and-jenn-tompkins/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Thu, May 17, 2018
Seed Saving Class March 18
Bonus Episode 16: Seed Saving Class March 2018. A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the March 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - Bill calls in from Cornville, Arizona to talk about seed sourcing, hybrids, sharing seeds, testing root crops, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance , Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/17/bonus16/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 15, 2018
Scott Murray on California Grown Coffee
Improving polyculture growing techniques. In This Podcast: When one of his farmer clients was seeking answers for their aging avocado farm, Scott Murray encouraged a solution that allowed for polyculture farming of coffee on the coastal side of some Southern California mountains. The micro-climate conditions they were able to create is producing results, and the preventative techniques he employed against weather and furry pests can be replicated on most other farms. There is a lot of information in this podcast, so be prepared to take notes! Scott has 44 years of organic agricultural production experience in the United States and Mexico. He has a multitude of experience with conservation, food production, and environmental leadership—including serving as an elected California Conservation official for the last 26 years. Scott also specializes in farmland preservation projects utilizing Smart Growth Principles. He now does farm creation and consulting as his primary work, including work on a farm growing coffee in Southern California. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/15/352-scott-murray/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 12, 2018
Lisa Ziegler on Urban Farming with Flowers
Growing florals for a farming business. In This Podcast: She married her husband for all the right reasons of course and everything was going well. Then later Lisa Ziegler realized also got the bonus of the land and equipment she needed for the dream career she did not know she wanted. Now Lisa is a flower farmer on a small farm in the middle of a city and loves it so much she teaches the basics of this career path to others. She recommends this as a great side business for anyone who likes gardening. Lisa is a cut-flower farmer, author, and speaker on organic cut-flower gardening. She has been farming since 1998 in Southeastern Virginia on the Ziegler family homestead. In season, her urban three-acre farm produces thousands of stems of flowers and an abundance of vegetables, which she sells to florists, supermarkets, at farmer’s markets and for her members-only farm market. In recent years, she has started leading hands-on-training on the farm for flower farmers and everyday ‘flower junkies’! Lisa is the author of four books including Vegetables Love Flowers, The Companion Planting Guide for Beauty and Bounty by our friends at Quarto Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/12/351-lisa-ziegler/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 08, 2018
Andrew Nowak Garden to Cafeteria School Programs
Helping students have better access to healthier foods. In This Podcast: After earning his PhD, an academic career was not going to work for him, so Andrew Nowak pivoted his passions and experience into improving the lives of his kids. This eventually led him to take on changing the protocols and processes of helping school cafeterias source food from school gardens and local farms. This broke ground for school districts around the country to implement new protocols themselves. This is a MUST listen for any parent wanting healthier food in their school’s cafeteria! Andrew is the former Director of the National School Garden Program for Slow Food USA where he was responsible for building capacity of nearly 150 Slow Food chapters to be partners in school garden projects. For 12 years he was the co-director of Slow Food Denver’s Seed-to-Table, School Food Program and developed protocols for Youth Farmers’ Markets and Garden to Cafeteria programs. Since 2009, Andrew has been the District Partner for Denver Public Schools and Jefferson County Schools helping to source local fruits, vegetables and meats for the cafeterias, to develop scratch cooking and salad bars in schools, and the development of school farms to grow organic vegetables for school kitchens. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/08/350-andrew-nowak/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 05, 2018
Jennifer Johnson on Eco Conscious Cooking
Building healthy bodies and minds through good nutrition. In This Podcast: After getting a card from her youngest child and he said that he loved her but not her cooking, Jennifer Johnson set out to change that. She eventually became a Chef and now focuses on cooking healthy and nutritious food, as well as teaching others how to make those selections for their own dishes. She shares some of her secrets with us in this podcast. Jennifer became a Chef 23 years ago after her son told her he hated her cooking in a Mother’s Day Card. At the time she managed seven manufacturing facilities around the world in Corporate America; now she is a full-time Eco Conscious Organic Chef with a passion to help people learn that health is wealth and it is not limited to those who can afford it. She uses distinct ingredients, organically grown, and cleanly made in all aspects of her business: catering, meal plans, food prep, cooking and food education. Chef Jennifer’s style of cooking is a French and Italian Fusion influence on American Food, using her international training to make quick nutritious meals. She will tell you Good Nutritious Food empowers you to have your best day! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/05/349-jennifer-johnson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 01, 2018
Megan Vollstedt on Value of a Start Up Accelerator
Helping agricultural technology startups. In This Podcast: Working at a startup company through the process of growing and its IPO was informative and provided Megan Vollstedt with invaluable insight for helping other entrepreneurs and startups get off the ground. She shares how having resources and mentors can help new companies find a path to a successful launch. She also explains how the program at Iowa AgTech is open to business all over to apply with their ideas for admission applications. Megan is the executive director of the Iowa AgriTech Accelerator, bringing with her more than six years of experience in the startup community. She has developed a deep knowledge and understanding of best practices for managing and growing a startup from infancy. Outside of the office, Megan stays engaged as a member of the Young Professionals of Ames, Young Professionals Connection, and volunteers for organizations that promote the arts, health and community betterment. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/05/01/348-megan-vollstedt/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, April 28, 2018
Theresa Rooney on Humane Critter Control
Keeping critters and pests at bay humanely and safely In This Podcast: Dealing with pests in your garden or farm can be overwhelming unless you can change your perspective. Having her yard become a wildlife habitat gave Theresa Rooney a chance to reconsider what was bringing the small visitors into her space and why they may or may not be welcome. For those wishing to find more humane ways of controlling the critters, she has some suggestions that will help. Theresa is a self-taught, life-long gardener. She is a Master Gardener who has turned her small urban yard into a Certified National Wildlife Habitat, home to an increasing number of welcome and unwelcome critters. She has written articles for Minnesota Gardener Magazine, teaches gardening classes, and is the author of " The Complete Guide to Humane Critter Control " published by Quarto Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/28/347-theresa-rooney/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, April 24, 2018
Justin Ehrlich on Chinese Medicine and Nature
Emphasizing simplicity with self-discovery. In This Podcast: Growing up between two worlds and two lifestyles, Justin Ehrlich realized working behind a desk was not his calling. The Asian influence in his youth, and the environmental awareness he gained from his father’s business, blended naturally into a calling to be an acupuncturist. He now seeks to help educate and empower about the connection Chinese medicine has with nature and how true healing can take place. Drawn for most of his life to many of the mystical practices that originated in ancient China, Justin has been a California state licensed acupuncturist since 2002 and a student of the Jade Purity branch of Daoism since 2001. After many years of questioning the nature of reality, then using these practices to work through his own struggles, heal old wounds, and find a deeper connection to the Divine, he can attest to how powerful and transformative this path can be. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/24/346-justin-ehrlich/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, April 21, 2018
Antoinette Wilson on Inspiring Stories
Inspiration through film. In This Podcast: She’s had a “greenie” intuition as a youth but spent part of her adulthood pursuing a publishing career and a side venture as a tango dancer, but Antoinette Wilson found herself living in a permaculture-based community for a year and it changed her life. She partnered up with another community member to write and make documentaries about the lifestyle they were experiencing, and even made some short films about others who were doing their best to have better impacts on their space. These documentaries and short films are inspiring others to take steps toward change too. Tasmania-born and New Zealand-bred, Antoinette began her professional career in book publishing and dreamt of managing the editorial offices of Random House New York by the age of 40. Instead, just before her 40th birthday she took on the management of the harvest and labour at a CSA in rural New Zealand. She had begun studying towards a Permaculture Design Certificate and was committed to living a low-impact lifestyle. During a 2015 documentary project exploring simple living, she realized the extraordinary capacity of film to educate, and teamed up with Jordan Osmond in Happen Films. The pair write, direct and produce short films and more recently their new feature film, Living the Change: Inspiring Stories for a Sustainable Future . The self-taught filmmakers live in a 20sq/meter (folks that is 215 square feet) unplumbed but luxurious room on the end of a shed in a friend’s 3-acre food-forest and have a passion for sharing stories that educate and inspire about how we can all live beautifully on earth. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/21/345-antoinette-wilson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, April 17, 2018
Seed Saving Class February 2018
Bonus Episode 15: Seed Saving Class February 2018. A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of info available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the February 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - patents, descriptions, regional adaptation, open sourced seeds, and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/17/bonus-15/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, April 14, 2018
Jennifer Pratt on Easy Garden Spacing
Making simplified gardening even easier. In This Podcast: New at gardening, the lackluster results of their first garden could have turned them off, but Jennifer Pratt and her husband decided there was an easier way. Using their need for a simpler method of spacing seeds in the garden, they designed a guide to do the measuring for them. This new tool is so easy to use that even Mel Bartholomew called to tell them how much he liked it. A kickstarter program has helped launched this simple idea into a new business for them. Jen is an entrepreneur and inventor. After a frustrating first attempt at growing a family garden, she and her husband saw the need for a tool that would simplify the process of both planting and tending their vegetable garden - and felt that the proper spacing of seeds was the ticket. And they were right! Now, after crowd funding, patents and a few more gardens under her belt, she’s here to tell us her story and share more on the tool that is changing the way people grow food. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/14/344-jennifer-pratt/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Thu, April 12, 2018
Seed Saving Class January 2018
Bonus Episode 14: Seed Saving Class January 2018. A chat with an expert on seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of info available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the January 2018 episode of a Seed Saving Class - discussing Grain School, original peanuts of South Carolina, inspiring gardeners, broccoli in Alaska and so much more. Join the class! Register anytime for the next event. Register Here for the Seed Saving Class with Live Q&A Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/12/bonus14/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, April 10, 2018
Ocean Robbins on the 2018 Food Revolution Summit
Spreading the word about healthy and sustainable eating. In This Podcast: It is easy to notice the conviction of purpose as we hear an update from Ocean Robbins about the principles behind this year’s Food Revolution Summit. He also shares some news about some dietary trends, how food system and food choice awareness is making a difference in many parts of the world. Visit www.urbanfarm.org/summit for more details Ocean is the CEO, Co-founder and Co-host of the 450,000+ member Food Revolution Network, and the co-host of the Food Revolution Summit since it started in 2012 . He has facilitated more than 50 week-long gatherings and 100 day-long workshops for leaders worldwide. He is the co-author of Choices For Our Future and The Power of Partnership, along with the most recently released Voices of the Food Revolution: You can heal your body, and your world, with food The annual Food Revolution Summit has already reached 800,000 people; teaching what’s really going on with our food, and presenting information to help us take action for our health, and for a more ethical and sustainable world. The 2018 Summit will take place April 28-May 6 this year, featuring John and Ocean Robbins interviewing 24 of the world’s top food experts. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/10/343-ocean-robbins/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, April 07, 2018
Ken Berry on Discussing Health with Your Doctor
Using your doctor as a valuable resource. In This Podcast: Having a background in construction, he was not your typical med student, but Dr. Ken Berry used his real-world experience to become a better doctor. Then when he realized he was becoming physically unfit while following the very advice he had been giving his own patients, he questioned his teachings and sought out better answers. He now helps people communicate better with their doctors and offers advice on diets to fight obesity and Type 2 Diabetes among other chronic illnesses. Ken is a Family Physician, Speaker and Author of the self-published book Lies My Doctor told me . He has been practicing Family Medicine for over a decade. He is board certified in Family Medicine, and has been awarded the degree of Fellow, by the American Academy of Family Physicians. Having seen over 20,000 patients of all ages during his career, he is uniquely qualified to write on both acute and chronic diseases. More and more, he has focused on the chronic diseases caused by the Standard American Diet and Lifestyle, and has made it his mission to turn the tide on the epidemic of Type 2 Diabetes, chronic inflammation and dementia. Ken has four children, 3 dogs, 2 cats and 7 peacocks. He, and his beautiful wife Neisha, live on their farm in Holladay, TN. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/07/342-ken-berry/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Ken Berry on Discussing Health with Your Doctor.
Tue, April 03, 2018
Mary Reynolds on Care of Earth, Food and Nature
Bringing awareness of the beauty of nature. In This Podcast: Connecting with nature is so natural to Mary Reynolds, that when life got busy and bogged her down to the point that she forgot to make it a priority, she actually felt ‘squished’. Mary’s story of winning the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show was told in the movie Dare to Be Wild. Here we learn more about her special relationship with nature and how she hopes to teach and inspire others to develop their own connection, for the good of all. Mary grew up on a small mixed farm in Wexford, in the south of Ireland and eventually set up her own company designing gardens in Dublin. A few years later, and having lost the will to live from constantly creating modern gardens, she realized that she could no longer continue shaping land in the same way and thus re-imagined her work to become nature rather than human centered. She brought her new, still relatively unformed ideas to be showcased at the Chelsea flower show in London where she achieved a gold medal, unusual at the time for a first-time effort. Since that time, Mary has built up quite a cult following in the world of garden design and is considered unique in her field. She eventually decided it was time to rethink the whole relationship we had with land and re-examine what it truly means to design in harmony with nature. This led to her book ‘The Garden Awakening – Designs to Nurture Our Land and Ourselves’ Special note: Her story is told in the film Dare to Be Wild, available on Netflix Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/04/03/341-mary-reynolds/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 31, 2018
Vivienne De Courcy on A Wild Nature Story
Telling a story of young environmentalists reaching for their dreams. In This Podcast: Becoming a scriptwriter had been a goal she set to the side while she worked her way into corporate finance law. However, when Vivienne DeCourcy heard the story of a young award winning garden designer’s journey, she found her way back. She shares how searching for a garden design consult then filled her need to connect to nature and introduced her to an amazing woman with an amazing story. This is the background of how the film Dare to Be Wild was completed. Vivienne came from a long family line of market gardeners, academics and rebels, yet somehow found herself having lived for 20 years in a Chicago high rise practicing corporate finance law. She really missed the landscape of her childhood - between Dublin and West Cork, and after getting breast cancer in her early thirties, she left corporate law, followed a childhood dream and started writing scripts. She went back home and bought a small hill farm where her love for natural landscape, writing, and trying to make the farm hers, came together and gave her the opportunity to write the script for Dare to be Wild, released spring 2016. DARE TO BE WILD, is a romantic adventure based on the true story of two young environmentalists, whose quest is to show the world the power of wild nature as they reach for their dreams - one garden, one vast desert, at a time. SPECIAL NOTE: This film opened on Netflix APRIL 1st, 2018. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/31/340-vivienne-de-courcy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, March 27, 2018
Frank Bergin on Feeding your Chickens
Optimizing the diet for backyard poultry. In This Podcast: Watching a bakery business fail, spending time in the navy on a destroyer, and then selling macaroni & cheese, might not seem like the background of a person managing part of a large poultry and egg business. However, this is the path that led Frank Bergin to Eggland’s Best and helping them decide to offer their best proprietary feed to urban farmers. He shares with us the reasons he joined the company as well as some significant statistics they found in their research and why they opted to put their feed on the shelves. Frank is currently General Manager of Strategic Ventures & Innovation for Eggland’s Best, LLC. He has always wanted to run a food business since he was a teenager working in his family’s summer bakery. After spending seven years as a US Naval Officer, the next eleven years he helped grow iconic brands like Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, Jell-O, Cream of Wheat, Post Cereals, Balance Bar and Ritz Crackers. In his final role with Kraft, Frank led the turnaround and rebirth of the Back To Nature natural/organic business. He went onto pursue his passion for building smaller, more entrepreneurial businesses and since joining EB in 2010, where he has help the company’s revenue triple. It was in looking for new ways to keep that remarkable pace of growth going that Frank and the Eggland’s Best team hit upon the idea of selling its proprietary feed directly to backyard chicken farmers Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/27/339-frank-bergin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 24, 2018
Tim Intfen on Re-purposing Perishable Ingredients
Reducing food waste in the supply chain. In This Podcast: After years of watching unused raw materials go to waste in his industry of nutraceuticals, Tim Intfen decided to do something about it. He figured out a solution that changes potential waste into back into a resource with value. He shares this unique business idea with us and tells why it can save time, money and nutrient resources. This free to use platform allows business to work together to avoid waste. Tim is the President and Co-Founder of InField Market – their mission…to reduce food waste and offer opportunity. InField Market is a unique business to business eCommerce platform that saves companies money and prevents waste. Their market the - animal nutrition, food and beverage, nutraceutical, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Their secure and free to use system features a robust real-time inventory and competitive pricing. Since 2004, he has worked in raw material distribution with principle manufacturers throughout the world. Tim is excited to bring InField Market as an opportunity based, game-changing solution to businesses throughout the globe. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/24/338-tim-intfen/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, March 20, 2018
Seed Saving Class, November 2017
Bonus Episode 13: Seed Saving Class, November 2017 A chat with an expert on seeds, Bill McDorman. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the November 2017 episode with a Seed School Chat Class - continuing the conversation with an in depth discourse on grains and corns, an ancient potato, grain trials, growing all your groceries, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/20/bonus13/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 17, 2018
Molly Beverly on Lunch as an Academic Subject
Taking school lunches very seriously. In This Podcast: When you have a passion for food and teaching and helping your community as well as being creative and you find a group that melds all three, then you are going to find great pleasure in sharing about this group. Chef Molly Beverly tells us about Slow Food USA and their concept of changing our mindset about school lunches. We hear about The Ark of Taste, Food Literacy, and the Slow Food Movement. Chef Molly is Prescott, Arizona’s creative food activist and teacher. As Prescott College Food Service Director and Chef for 9 years, she built the food service into a showcase of sustainable, educational, and tasty food. Molly has taught cooking since 1976 to adults and children at Prescott and Yavapai Colleges, most recently Edible and Delicious Science for Kids. She is a regular writer for Edible Phoenix and she operates a small organic farm and catering business. As Chair of Slow Food Prescott, she champions school gardens and sustainable food education. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/17/337-molly-beverly/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, March 13, 2018
Kerry Audisho on the Tour De Coops
Bonus Episode 12: Kerry Audisho on the Tour De Coops A chat about organizing a tour of backyard chicken farms. In This Bonus Podcast: We chat with Kerry Audisho about an upcoming Tour de Coops in Phoenix, and she helps us understand what this event is and why it is something every city should have. She tells us about how she got involved in running the Tour de Coops and how she is ready to help other cities start their own. We also learn about Easter Eggers, the benefits of chickens, a garden program for kids, and getting kids to try Swiss Chard then ask for seconds. Kerry is a Dr. Sears Certified Health Coach, founder of Your Farm Foods, Friending Farmers, and the non-profit organization Garden Play. She has been a practicing health coach since 2011, and on the health seeking journey for over 15 years. In Garden Play, she and her team establish and maintain gardens in schools, as well as teach students how to garden, about the health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables, and how to prepare the foods they grow. Garden Play is also the organizer for the Phoenix Tour De Coops taking place on March 25th 2018. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/13/bonus12/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 10, 2018
Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care Training
Helping the community plant fruit trees successfully. In This Podcast: We catch up with Returning Guest Susan Poizner as she shares more about fruit tree care and the training that she offers through her podcasts as well as the courses at Niagara College. She helps explain why pruning is important, especially when strong weather conditions come. She has a lot of great information for anyone who is growing their own fruit trees. Susan is an urban orchardist in Toronto, Canada and the author of the award-winning fruit tree care book “Growing Urban Orchards” as well as the creator of an award-winning, online fruit tree care training course. In her in-person and online workshops, Susan has trained hundreds of students from across North America. Her students include Master Gardeners, arborists, and people who are completely new to gardening and fruit tree care. IF that was not enough, Susan is the host and creator of The Urban Forestry Radio Show and Podcast on RealityRadio101.com and an Instructor of Fruit Production Program at Niagara College in Ontario. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/10/336-susan-poizner/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, March 06, 2018
Bill Bezuk on Urban Farming in Eugene
Supporting local farmers with supplies and resources. In This Podcast: Having several years of corporate retail in his resume, and working at a books store, Bill Bezuk was intrigued when he noticed an uptick in the interest in books on raising chickens. He took this insight, combined it with his experience, and eventually opened a “boutique urban farming supply store” in Eugene. Tailoring his store to fit the needs of local urban farmers, he has built up a dedicated customer base who have been coming for years. He tells us his story and includes a little story that Greg calls out as EPIC! Bill opened his store the Eugene Backyard Farmer in April, 2010. There were already several traditional feed stores, yet he felt they did not understand the unique needs of the urban farmer. With that in mind, Bill created what he calls a “boutique urban farming supply store”, and has seen significant growth since opening. The Eugene Backyard Farmer helps people convert their back yard into a more sustainable and thriving place with supplies for small scale flocks, plus gardening and pollination items as well as chicks, custom feeds, garden plants, soil amendments, and bee hives. Through his store, Bill shares knowledge and experience, and hopes to continue to be the center of the urban farming community in Eugene. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/06/335-bill-bezuk/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, March 03, 2018
Kunal Sampat on Raising Backyard Chickens
Knowing the joy of being a chicken parent. In This Podcast: Technology was the world he was most familiar with, until Kunal Sampat got introduced to the life of raising chickens. He shares the story of how he started his flock, and how it did not take long for this to become a passion. He also helps break a few myths about backyard chickens. Kunal has regular tours of his farm to help others learn about keeping these flocks, teaches classes online and offers a special to Urban Farm listeners. After living in urban neighborhoods for his entire life, Kunal wanted to experience a sustainable, rural lifestyle. In 2013, he welcomed a flock of 16 baby chicks at his home in San Jose, California. Since Silicon Valley kids knew a whole lot about technology and very little about raising chickens, he started to offer free farm tours in his backyard. A teacher at heart, Kunal recently launched a comprehensive online video course on raising chickens. He enjoys connecting like-minded people, introducing new ideas, and immersing himself in an environment of continuous learning. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/03/03/334-kunal-sampat/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, February 27, 2018
Brandi DiCarli on Farming from a Box
Helping farmers think INSIDE the box! In This Podcast: Camping with her father in a old VW Van had a much more of an impact on Brandi DeCarli than her father could have realized. Keeping everything you need for your adventure in one van/box is now what she does for new farms. She tells us how Farm From a Box got started as a way to help communities build their own farms with a tailored package of “deliverable infrastructure” in a shipping container. And there is a way that you can be a part of the project right from home. Brandi is the Founding Partner of Farm from a Box, an off-grid farm system that uses modern technology to make farming more efficient, more productive, and more environmentally beneficial, all in one deliverable system. Built from a modified shipping container, it comes equipped with all of the technology needed to start and maintain a two-acre planted farm. It is specifically designed to conserve water, save energy, and help build a healthy soil. Their goal is to revolutionize local food production and enable communities around the world to grow their own nutritious food with clean technology. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/27/333-brandi-decarli/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, February 24, 2018
Barbara Masoner on Growing Food Locally
Caring about local communities and their vegetable gardens. In This Podcast: Looking for a group to join so she could make a difference in her community, Barbara Masoner found a local group that wanted to start a garden project in the state capital. Readjusting their focus after getting turned down, they got support from the mayor and started a project that is still making a difference more than ten years later. The simple idea now has a team of 400 volunteers all working to help feed food pantries and better their community. Barbara’s background is in environmental studies. Her first garden was a 4-H project in 5th grade. Thanks to her many gardening mentors, including her great grandfather, she has found gardening rewarding, fun and inspirational. In 2009 she was one of the founders of Grow Local Colorado (GLC). Since then GLC has grown over 23,000 pounds of fresh produce for dozens of Denver’s communities in need. Each grow season Barbara oversees some 400 volunteers in ten garden sites, many of those volunteers are young people. Her goal is to see as many vegetable gardens in Denver as there were Victory Gardens during WWII. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/24/332-barbara-masoner/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, February 20, 2018
October Seed Chat
Bonus Episode 11: Seed Chat October 2017. A chat with an expert on Seeds, Bill McDorman. In This Bonus Podcast: This is the October 2017 episode with a Seed School Chat Class - continuing the conversation with some motivational quotes, adjusting for new weather norms, coming back from gardening disasters, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/20/bonus-episode-11/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, February 17, 2018
Zach Brooks on Sustainability and Worms
Turning waste into gold with off-the-shelf, readily available items. In This Podcast: Changing lifestyles to be more sustainable was something that Zach Brooks was willing to do with complete commitment, especially when it seemed fairly easy to do. He semi-retired young enough to realize he could make a difference so he bought some property and is creating a sustainability experiment to help others see how they can implement easy changes too. One main ingredient to his project is the worm farm and worm education and he shares key tips on how beneficial they are. He wears the title of lazy gardener with comfort and wants to teach others how to be more efficient without working so hard at the process. Zach semi-retired from Healthcare Management at age 42 when his consulting company went public. And when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second Masters Degree, in Sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable – but fixable with “off the shelf” practices and technologies, Zach set out to prove that an off-the-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. He wants to show we don’t need some new invention, we just need to use the solar and wind power we have now and nature’s method of organic composting, natural mulching, smart growing, and less silly waste. On his farm is worm composting is key with the worms turning garbage into fertilizer and serving as food for their chickens. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/17/331-zach-brooks/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, February 13, 2018
Ben Hartman on Growing Lean Vegetables
Finding efficient processes to help make farming productive. In This Podcast: It takes a dedicated minimalist to try living without adding new items to the property, and Ben Hartman took this simplistic mindset to most areas of his early adult life. Then when he too a look at his 5-acre farm he realized he could do with less unnecessary stuff and he found it improved his productivity. The lessons he learned have helped many others become more efficient and he shares some of them here with us. Ben is the author of The Lean Farm (winner of the prestigious Shingo Award), and The Lean Farm Guide to Growing Vegetables , both published in 2017 by our friends at Chelsea Green. In that same year he was appointed to the 2017 Grist 50, a list of emerging green leaders in the United States. He and his wife Rachel Hershberger own and operate Clay Bottom Farm in Goshen, Indiana, where they make their living on less than one acre by growing and selling specialty produce to restaurants, at a farmers market, and through cooperative CSAs. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/13/330-ben-hartman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, February 10, 2018
Ryan Agrey on Successful Indoor Gardening
Putting fresh, organic food within reach of the kitchen counter. In This Podcast: When a millennial has too much time on their hands and is not feeling like they are making a difference, AND they happen to be the kind of person who like to design things, what can possibly happen? We get to hear why Ryan Agrey is a millennial like that, and how he was motivated to take a game-system-designed farm to the next level and create something that could be used by any novice gardener to bring fresh, organic food within easy reach. Ryan is from a small town in Alberta Canada, just north of Washington. Along with his father Brad and sister Tessa, he spent the last 2 years developing a simple “plug and play” indoor garden that allows anyone to grow food at home regardless of where they live. It requires no previous knowledge of growing food, and can pay for itself in just a few months. During this journey they developed a unique technology for hydroponics which is currently patent pending. With the use of this technology they then created an affordable and simple kit to provide you with everything you need to grow year-round, indoors from the comfort of your home. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/10/329-ryan-agrey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, February 06, 2018
Tim Young on Growing a Farm Business
Helping small farmers build their brands and grow their business. In This Podcast: A relaxing horseback ride with his wife helped motivate businessman Tim Young into the strange new world of farming. He didn't know much about farming, but he knew a lot about marketing so he used that knowledge to help build their farmstead into a successful one with award-winning products. Not content with being the only one to succeed, he has started a project helping other farmers learn the ways to become successful themselves, and shares some of those concepts here. Tim is a corporate executive turned modern homesteader and founded \ Nature’s Harmony Farm in Georgia, produced award-winning farmstead cheese, grassfed beef & lamb, woodlot pork, and pasture raised chicken. This is where he, his wife Liz and their young daughter, milk their own cow, produced all the cheese, soap, medicine, meat and vegetables - They truly enjoy a simple life. Tim’s also the founder of the Small Farm Nation Academy, an online resource devoted to helping family farmers learn skills to build their farm brands, attract more customers, and grow profitable farm businesses. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/06/328-tim-young/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Sat, February 03, 2018
Ask Jake & Greg - September 2017
The September 2017 Q&A session with two experts on Gardening and Fruit Trees Jake Mace the Vegan Athlete and Greg Peterson of The Urban Farm are both gardening educators offering classes, podcasts, and videos on a large variety of gardening topics. Every month they get together for a monthly gardening chat to discuss what is going on in their gardens and answer your questions. To dive in, get more information, and send us your questions visit AskJakeandGreg.com - so let's get on with the show... This is the September 2017 Q&A episode with a variety of questions addressed from prepping for fruit trees, raised garden bed soil layers, and much more. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/02/03/bonus-episode-10/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 30, 2018
Robert Reader on Protecting Banana Crops
Paying attention to the pests and diseases that affect crops. In This Podcast: Science and the study of the biology of plants is a true calling for Robert Reeder, as he has been part of different projects at CABI for several decades; and his focus on the Plantwise Programme is something that is making a difference. He shares with us how the Programme is helping farmers in developing countries diagnose and tackle different crop issues, as well as their work to help counter the spread of soil born diseases that are affecting banana crops around the world. Robert is a plant pathologist working with the Centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI), based in the United Kingdom. His areas of interests are in international development and the management of pests and diseases of tropical crops. Having worked for CABI for nearly 25 years, he’s gained extensive experience in diagnosing pests and diseases of a diverse range of tropical crops. As part of his work he has traveled to many countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. His current focus in the Plantwise Programme which aims to help farmers lose less of what they grow to plant-health problems. Plantwise operates in 34 countries and works closely with national agricultural advisory services to establish and support a sustainable network of plant clinics. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/30/327-robert-reeder/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, January 27, 2018
Jan McCarthy on Making Hot Spicy Jams
Adding some sweet and spice to life through delicious fruit jams. In This Podcast: A simple request to help fill a charity basket for cancer patients has turned into a small food-craft business for Jan McCarthy. Acting on the request of her son to help out a charity event, Jan made a few jars of jam. Little did she realize how popular they would become, especially once she put her own special twist of adding hot peppers to some of her recipes. She tells about some of the steps she needed to go through to make her business legit, as well as some tips to making good jams. Jan worked in her parents’ bakery from age 12 until she was 32 when she went back to school to be a para legal which she has done for 30 years. Ready to put some of the high stress of the legal world behind her, she was willing to try something new so as a favor to her son she started making jams for community projects of the Joy Bus Diner. Now her specialty is making hot spicy jams. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/27/326-jan-mccarthy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 23, 2018
Liz Whitehurst on Starting a New Small Farm
Operating a small-scale diversified farm. In This Podcast: Growing up in an urban community in Chicago would not normally lead a person to choose a farming lifestyle, but during her college years several things led her to the agriculture career she has now. Liz Whitehurst tells us about the nudges that pushed her this direction as well as the amazing opportunity that came her way at the right time. She also shares some useful tips that can help any new farmer who is working their own CSA program. We also hear about a heartwarming story of her five-year old customer who missed his peashoots! Liz is the owner/operator of Owl’s Nest Farm, small-scale diversified vegetable farm 15 miles outside Washington, DC. Before starting her farm, she worked on a wide variety of farms and gardens as a grower and educator, including the Arcadia Center for Sustainable Agriculture and Angelic Organics Learning Center. Owl’s Nest Farm grows unique, delicious, nutritious, diverse vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruit on four acres. Liz was recently featured in a Washington Post article about how young farmers are changing the food system. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/23/325-liz-whitehurst/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Sat, January 20, 2018
Seed Chat, September 2017
Bonus Episode 9: Seed Chat, September 2017 A chat with an expert on Seeds, Bill McDorman In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the September 2017 episode with a Seed School Chat Class continuing the conversation on Seed Saving Principles, Intellectual Property rights, Seed Saving policy history, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/20/bonus-episode-9/ for more show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 16, 2018
Jessica Walliser on Container Gardening
Making the most of small spaces for gardens. In This Podcast: Returning guest Jessica Walliser opens our eyes and minds to working in small spaces with container gardens. She worked hard to make a comprehensive book with important steps and key details for those who wish to make a container work for growing their vegetables, fruits and flowers too. And we get a few ideas for containers too. Our Returning guest Horticulturist Jessica co-hosts The Organic Gardeners, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and serves on the Editorial Advisory Board of The American Horticultural Society. In addition. she is also the author of several gardening books including the Amazon best-seller Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to Manage Them Organically, and her fourth book, Attracting Beneficial Bugs to the Garden: A Natural Approach to Pest Control , which was awarded the American Horticultural Society's 2014 Book Award. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/16/324-jessica-walliser/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, January 13, 2018
Kari Spencer on Farming in the City
Growing crops and raising livestock in urban spaces. In This Podcast: Returning guest Kari Spencer talks about her first book City Farming, and shares about some of the key aspects of farming in a city space. She visited several farms to research other perspectives and methods and gathered all the data into this book. She also tells about how it is so jam packed with information that part of the book had to go digital. There are several great ideas to help urban farmers gain confidence and overcome some challenges. Kari is a popular local gardening & homesteading speaker. As a Master Gardener and a Master Farmer, she enjoys sharing her passion for growing and raising food with others. In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is the creator of Urban Farm U’s Growing Food the Basics & Backyard Livestock courses. She and her family operate The Micro Farm Project, a small farm in North Phoenix, where gardens and livestock animals provide her family with fun and food. Her new book City Farming: How-To Guide to Growing Crops & Raising Livestock in Urban Spaces , by 5MPublishing has just been released. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/13/323-kari-spencer/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Wed, January 10, 2018
Henry Rowlands on Pesticide Awareness and Testing
Checking for the presence of pesticide in our food. In This Podcast: A youth spent on an organic sheep farm, and early adulthood spent traveling as a journalist led Henry Rowlands to the development of Sustainable Pulse – a news source dedicated to informing on sustainable agriculture. He now leads up the Detox Project which helps increase awareness of pesticide exposure in our foods and our bodies, and is spreading the word about a testing process that can determine pesticide levels in foods or bodies. This is information that can be used to help determine the toxicity of chemicals in use today. Henry was raised on a family-run, organic sheep farm in Wales. This led to his deep interest in issues related to sustainable agriculture, and he worked for a time as a news agency journalist in many countries across Europe. He eventually moved on to set up Sustainable Pulse, a global news source focusing on sustainable agriculture and food, with a readership of over 500,000 people per month from over 125 countries. He is also an adviser on sustainable agriculture to several governments in the European Union. Beyond their news platform, Sustainable Pulse is involved in several reference projects, all of which have the aim of educating the public on the problems surrounding the overuse of pesticides. Henry is the Project Director for their program called The Detox Project, which has set up a unique pesticide testing platform for food and our bodies across America. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/09/322-henry-rowlands/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, January 06, 2018
Adam Brock on Social Permaculture
Attuning our minds to social permaculture solutions. In This Podcast: When given the opportunity to make an abandon greenhouse become useful Adam Brock and a few friends created the GrowHaus. He has traveled many places focusing on the invisible structures of permaculture design and has crafted a course that teaches how to see the needs and make a difference in your community. He tells us how this came about and why he was encouraged to write a book on a topic that is not well known. Adam helps explain many permaculture concepts that are important but often left undeveloped when discussing the stages of design. Adam is a facilitator, author, and designer working at the intersection of urban agriculture, sustainable business, and social change. As co-founder of The GrowHaus, Adam helped transform an abandoned half-acre greenhouse in Colorado's most polluted zip code into an award-winning hub for urban agriculture. The GrowHaus engages thousands of low-income residents per year, grows 1500 heads of lettuce per week, and has a million-dollar annual budget. A certified permaculture designer since 2008, Adam is active in the local and national permaculture communities. In May 2017, Adam released his first book, Change Here Now: Permaculture Strategies for Personal and Community Transformation ( North Atlantic Books). It is a “recipe book” of solutions for social change grounded in ecological principles. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/06/321-adam-brock/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, January 02, 2018
Shannon McCabe on Heirloom Seed Stories
Documenting the histories of seeds in Baker Creek Catalogs. In This Podcast: Traveling the world to get the unique seeds and document their stories – a dream job for a writer and gardener like Shannon McCabe. She tells us a little more about how she got started working for Baker Creek Seeds and some of the perks of working for a visionary like Jere Gettle. She also shares about the upcoming Seed Expo in California in the Fall and the donation program for non-profits and school programs. Shannon is a writer who found her passion melded beautifully with farming and growing heirloom vegetables when she landed the perfect job as the farm manager and catalog writer at Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company. She has traveled the world as a seed explorer for Baker Creek, from cycling the tulip fields in Netherlands in search of rare bulbs, to the remote jungle markets of the Peruvian Amazon in search of rare fruit. Shannon co-writes the award winning Whole Seed Catalog, and dreamt up the Baker Creek children’s gardening book. She has enjoyed bringing the arcane heirloom vegetables of our past back to the foreground of the gardening discussion. Shannon strives to make growing heirloom varieties approachable to every gardener, from the children who read her kids books, to the large scale organic farmer reading her variety descriptions in the catalog. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2018/01/02/320-shannon-mccabe/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 30, 2017
Melissa Caughey on How to Speak Chicken
Translating fowl language for urban farmers. In This Podcast: After moving all the way across the country, Melissa Caughey shares why she added chickens to her family. She tells about how, with her science and teaching background, she eventually started teaching people about chickens. Always learning, she discovered there is a fowl language that could be understood and started teaching others how to Speak Chicken. She coaches Greg through a few key calls that, once translated, will be obvious to anyone who keeps chickens. Melissa is the author of How to Speak Chicken and A Kid’s Guide to Keeping Chickens published by our friends at Storey Publishing. She is a backyard chicken keeper, beekeeper, and gardener who writes the award-winning blog Tilly’s Nest. She writes for HGTV, DIY Network, and the magazines Grit, Chickens, Community Chickens, and Country Living. She also gives presentations on chicken keeping at events across the country. She lives on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/30/319-melissa-caughey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, December 26, 2017
Jessica Walliser on Attracting Beneficial Bugs
Recognizing the connections between insects and plant life. In This Podcast: Several years into running a landscaping company, a few key employees opened Jessica Walliser's eyes to the importance of avoiding pesticides. Taking the time to educate herself, she converted to a whole new mindset and is now an avid teacher about natural pest control. She tells us about the predator-prey cycle and why we need to stay out of the process as much as possible, and shares a few tips on how to help the population of beneficial bugs grow in your space. We hear descriptions of several types of insects and bugs that are part of healthy ecosystems in gardens and farms. Jessica earned her degree in Horticulturist from Penn State University and co-hosts “The Organic Gardeners”, an award-winning program on KDKA Radio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and serves on the Editorial Advisory Board of The American Horticultural Society. She is a regular contributor to Fine Gardening, Urban Farm, and Hobby Farms magazines, and her two weekly gardening columns for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review have been enjoyed by readers for over ten years. Jessica also blogs weekly for both SavvyGardening.com and HobbyFarms.com. She is also the author of several gardening books including the Amazon best-seller Good Bug, Bad Bug: Who’s Who, What They Do, and How to Manage Them Organically (St Lins Press) , and Attracting Beneficial Bugs to the Garden: A Natural Approach to Pest Control (Timber Press), which was awarded the American Horticultural Society's 2014 Book Award. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/26/318-jessica-walliser/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 23, 2017
Mary Tiedeman on Soil Formation
Breaking down some factors in the science of studying soil. In This Podcast: It was not her first thought when she went college, but after an inspiring study abroad trip, Mary found her passion in the science of studying soil. She tells us how this life path change occurred, and how she not only found a topic she could literally dig into, but also a society that she would enjoy and now represents through her blog articles. She also tells us more about the factors involved in the formation of soil and how to keep it healthy in our raised bed gardens. Mary is a soil scientist and Agro-ecology PhD student at Florida International University in Miami. Originally from Iowa, she received her B.S. and M.S. degrees in Environmental Science and Agronomy at Iowa State University. Her master’s research was on ants and the ways they influence prairie soil formation. Her passion for soils has taken her across the globe, from the Alaskan to, tropical rainforests –and many places in between - all in hopes to better understand soil functioning in different ecosystems. When not chipping away at her dissertation, Mary is a volunteer blogger for Soils Matter, a blog run by the Soil Science Society of America which is working to share soils information with broad audiences. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/23/317-mary-tiedeman/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, December 19, 2017
Chiara and Travis Bolton on Solar Honey
Stacking beekeeping businesses with alternative energy for everyone's benefit. In This Podcast: Chiara and Travis Bolton are not just any regular beekeepers, they are also changemakers in that they have devised an innovative way to help several aspects of their local community in environmentally friendly and the area of sustainable energy. They realized they could stack the functions of beekeeping with the land intensive areas of solar panels for mutual benefit and provide a product that was healthy, local, and in demand. Then they decided to expand this concept to help others do the same thing and have set up a business just to help in this process. Chiara and Travis are beekeepers in Minnesota. In their business, Bolton Bees they sell Minnesota-Hardy bees adapted to survive Minnesota's harsh northern climate and distinct location specific honey. They have been featured in National Geographic, Martha Stewart, Smithsonian Magazine, and Modern Farmer for their innovative partnerships with solar developers. They formed a public benefit corporation called “The Solar Honey Company” and have trademarked the term. They are a mission-based company promoting the stacking of multiple benefits to farmland including clean solar energy, pollinator-friendly habitat, and local beekeeping. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/19/316-chiara-and-travis-bolton/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 16, 2017
Leanne Phillips on Off-Grid Natural Living
Embracing simplicity and starting a new life. In This Podcast: After spending some time completing an earthen building project and maintaining two mortgages and many of the standard life trappings, Leanne Phillips realized this was not the lifestyle she was looking for and decided to simplify. She moved to a remote property off a 10-mile dirt road and started over without the infrastructure many people take for granted. She tells how she got solar power set up, established a new well, and even planted 100 new fruit trees before those were done. Her experiences are fortifying her classes that she teaches and her story telling helps to make it all really interesting! Leanne, creator of Wisdom ooh Zivaat, is an organic lifestyle and holistic health Educator, and an inspired advocate for creating clean, deeply nourishing foods. She extends this into a full organic lifestyle and teaches classes in Living foods, Gardening, Essential oils and more. Wisdom ooh Zivaat is an off grid 34-acre Food forest/Full spectrum natural living demonstration that was born in January of 2017. Leanne feels that humanity is in an unnecessary place of stress and decay and that we are being called to embrace that aspect of ourselves that is simplicity and wisdom. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/16/315-leanne-phillips/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, December 12, 2017
Shannon McCabe on Gaining a Gardening Passion
Finding amazing seeds and becoming a seed storyteller. In This Podcast: Her young life was spent on a small island near a 300-year-old farm, with a family that loved to share history through storytelling. Then Shannon McCabe got a chance to work for Baker Creek Seeds and now she documents the stories of seeds from around the world. She explains just what an heirloom seed is, and why they are special. She also shares a couple seed stories, including one for garden berries in Peru, and another about an ancient, crooknecked watermelon from a cave in Arizona. We cannot spoil this, you must listen for yourself! Shannon is a writer, seed explorer and horticulturist for Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company. After earning a degree in Environmental Horticulture from the University of Rhode Island, she worked on mixed-vegetable farms and a fruit orchard before starting her own small-scale farm on historic farmland. She combined her life-long love of writing with her passion for farming when she began working as the farm manager and catalog writer for Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds. Through co-writing the award winning Whole Seed Catalog, hosting instructional videos and dreaming up the Baker Creek children’s gardening book, she has enjoyed bringing the arcane heirloom vegetables of our past back to the foreground of the gardening discussion. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/12/314-shannon-mccabe/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 09, 2017
313: Jeff Tomberlin on Black Soldier Flies
Seeking natural solutions for food waste recycling. In This Podcast: It was his grandmother’s principles about not wasting food or resources in rural Georgia that influenced Dr. Jeff Tomberlin’s philosophies on his life. He found his calling in college and has dedicated much of his energies to teaching others about nature’s extremely effective recycling tool – the Black Soldier Fly. Growing and harvesting this insect is actually quite easy once you know the steps, and he wants everyone to do it at home. He tells why this insect could prove to be a solution to not just dealing with food waste, but providing a source of food for both chickens and fish, closing a loop in the food-waste cycle. Dr. Tomberlin has been working with the black soldier flies for almost 20 years. His PhD research with Dr. Craig Sheppard resulted in methods for mass-producing the black soldier fly for use in recycling food or animal waste and the subsequent use of the larvae as feed for livestock, poultry, aquaculture, and reptiles. Companies around the world use these methods to protect the environment, create jobs, and increase protein availability. Dr. Tomberlin is currently the Director of EVO Conversion Systems, which has a primary mission of building food and waste management facilities that utilize the black soldier fly. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/09/313-jeff-tomberlin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 09, 2017
Jeff Tomberlin on Black Soldier Flies
Seeking natural solutions for food waste recycling. In This Podcast: It was his grandmother’s principles about not wasting food or resources in rural Georgia that influenced Dr. Jeff Tomberlin’s philosophies on his life. He found his calling in college and has dedicated much of his energies to teaching others about nature’s extremely effective recycling tool – the Black Soldier Fly. Growing and harvesting this insect is actually quite easy once you know the steps, and he wants everyone to do it at home. He tells why this insect could prove to be a solution to not just dealing with food waste, but providing a source of food for both chickens and fish, closing a loop in the food-waste cycle. Don’t miss an episode! Click here to sign up for weekly podcast updates or visit www.urbanfarm.org/podcast Dr. Tomberlin has been working with the black soldier flies for almost 20 years. His PhD research with Dr. Craig Sheppard resulted in methods for mass-producing the black soldier fly for use in recycling food or animal waste and the subsequent use of the larvae as feed for livestock, poultry, aquaculture, and reptiles. Companies around the world use these methods to protect the environment, create jobs, and increase protein availability. Dr. Tomberlin is currently the Director of EVO Conversion Systems, which has a primary mission of building food and waste management facilities that utilize the black soldier fly. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/blacksoldierfly for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, December 05, 2017
Kevin Fitzgerald on Marvelous Mushrooms
Getting to know more about the popular culinary fungi. In This Podcast: His space was limited and he wanted to start a small food growing business, then Kevin Fitzgerald found his perfect match in growing mushrooms and selling them at the farmers market. He talks with us today about the mycelium that is a favorite of many foodies, and has such potential to nourish while also helping the environment. He has even started selling mushroom kits that can help the home grower start off on their own mushroom adventure. After spending years in communications contracting and feeling unfulfilled Kevin decided to start farming and settled on mushrooms as something that fit his interests and could be profitable on small scale. Starting on a hobby scale he has grown from mini green house and small humidifier to full size room fully climate controlled. He grows mushrooms for both culinary and medicinal uses. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/05/312-kevin-fitzgerald/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, December 02, 2017
Joshua Burman Thayer on Mediterranean Food Forests
Bringing exotic flavor to local food systems. In This Podcast: Starting off at age 18, Joshua Burman Thayer was headed in the direction of working with plants and nature. He took his time before getting his permaculture certificate, but he packed a lot of learning and hands-on experience in during that period. Now, he is sharing that training, knowledge, and passion as he builds food forests, educates his clients, and writing articles about permaculture and food forest design. Joshua has a degree in Community Engineering from Humboldt State University. He proudly admits he has always had his hands in the Earth, especially through his extensive travels throughout the Americas working with communities around plants and food. He worked as a WWOOF volunteer on organic farms throughout Latin America, and as a laborer on organic CSA farms in California. He gained even more experience while apprenticing and working in ecological landscape design, as well as doing native plant field research with renowned mentors. Joshua has become a lead designer and advocate for uniting ecology with aesthetic, creating beautiful, productive, natural systems that work with nature to foster bounty. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/12/02/311-joshua-burmanthayer/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, November 28, 2017
Who needs a title? This is JOEL SALATIN!
Chatting with a Sustainable Farming giant. In This Podcast: Having three generations of regenerative and sustainable farmers to learn from, Joel Salatin was very immersed in the philosophies of farming that rejected the use of chemicals. Their efforts over the years on the virtually barren land his father purchased in the early 60’s has resulted in a vibrant, and productive farm that Joel now runs. He shares several key lessons he learned about farming and soil generation, and throws out some gems worth quoting! Joel and his family own Polyface Farm in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Featured in the iconic foodie book Omnivore's Dilemma and award-winning film FOOD INC., the farm's moniker is "healing the land one bite at a time." A prolific author (12 books to date) and speaker, he promotes local food systems, freedom of food choice, and farming systems that build the commons. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/28/310-joel-salatin/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, November 25, 2017
Lisa Steele on Hatching Chicks and Raising Chickens
Getting ready to raise chickens from eggs with your kids. In This Podcast: Raising chickens for eggs has been a joy of Fresh Eggs Daily author Lisa Steele’s for quite some time, so it was natural for her to write a book about raising chickens from eggs too. She tells us how she decided to write a book for kids and why it is so special. She also shares some tips and techniques for making the transition to raising the chicks from eggs and how to introduce new chicks to your flock. Lisa is a 5th-generation chicken keeper, top-selling author and the creative mind behind the Better Homes & Gardens award-winning blog Fresh Eggs Daily® (www.fresheggsdaily.com). Lisa inspires both the newcomer as well as the seasoned chicken keeper and engages fans worldwide on her Facebook page of the same name with her easy, fun and accessible approach to raising backyard flocks naturally. She is the author of several books and has a new one for kids coming out 1st Quarter 2018 called Let’s Hatch Chicks by Voyager Press. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/25/309-lisa-steele/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, November 21, 2017
Ann Larkin Hansen on Seasonal Planting for the Homestead
Recognizing the seasonal commonalities in different areas. In This Podcast: It was the timing of it all that needed to be addressed, so author and farmer Ann Larkin Hansen realized she needed to write a book about how to recognize the right time to do things on the farm no matter where you lived. She took the time to identify the seasons in ways that would make sense in every area because it compiled the common factors that affected when to plant which type of crops. Her interest in writing and farming also helped with a few other books that she wrote and she shares a few more useful tips. Go to urbanfarm.org/annlarkinhansen Ann is a homesteader and small-scale organic farmer, as well as a farm journalist specializing in sustainable farming and forestry. After she retired from farm reporting, she authored a number of books. Her latest book The Backyard Homestead Seasonal Planner – what to do and when to do it by Storey Press is in bookstores now. She lives with her family on a farm in northern Wisconsin. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/21/308-ann-larkin-hansen/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, November 18, 2017
Steve Knight on Gleaning for Your Community
Tackling local food waste and hunger through team effort. In This Podcast: Retirement does not mean you no longer contribute to your community, in fact retired teacher Steve Knight has taken advantage of his free time to do the make a huge difference for local food charities, and create a new club in his area. When he realized local farms had leftover produce after the harvest, he organized volunteers to go through the fields and orchards to gather the remnants for local food pantries. His volunteers are truly making a difference on two fronts! Steve taught high school science for 40 years and then retired. He spent the past few summers teaching chemistry for Upward Bound at the University of Maine at Farmington. But what he is excited about is after he retired, he started a volunteer organization called Central Maine Gleaners Group. In the first 3 years, Steve and 15 volunteers have gleaned over 21,000 pounds of food from 7 local farms and back yards and he then gives this food to various food pantries in his area. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/18/307-steve-knight/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, November 14, 2017
Mark Lewis on Wildcrafting, Foraging, and Growing Native
Harvesting sustainable and nourishing foods found growing in the wild. In This Podcast: Taking the skills handed down for generations, Mark Lewis is very comfortable eating foods he finds in the wild. He teaches about these foods and their history to the next generation as well as to the people he meets while working at local farmers markets. He is also starting a private farm hoping to save and expand on some of the wild plants that were once a primary source of food for local cultures. Mark is a Wildcrafter extraordinaire. Wildcraft harvesting provides ¾ of his family’s food supply on a daily basis, additionally Mark demonstrates sustainable foraging of 200 indigenous plants and 50 mushrooms at Phoenix area farmers markets, universities, schools, and regional conferences. Mark is now embarking on a new endeavor The Farm – growing 100 of the plants that he wildcrafts, introducing them and their culinary potential to area chefs, and sharing them and a library of First Nations’ language ethnobotanical materials with the native American Communities. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/14/306-mark-lewis/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, November 11, 2017
Lee Stewart on Healthy Eating Through Gardening
Finding healing in gardening and peace in helping others grow healthy foods. In This Podcast: Uprooted as a very young child with her widowed mother from a familiar routine to a chaotic new and foreign world across an ocean, Lee Stewart eventually found healing and health through her gardening hobbies. It made sense that she eventually focused on a career of health and wellness, and it was even more natural for her to find ways to help others start gardening at home so they can find the same healing she did. Lee, the owner of Veg Up Get Dirty was only 4 years old when she made the 2-year journey from Vietnam to the United States. She has been gardening since she came to the US, and believes in the health benefits that come from clean eating. She is a certified personal trainer, corporate wellness coach, and has over 15 years’ experience in nutrition and the health and wellness fields. She knows the importance of gardening, clean eating, and is passionate about educating others about the many health benefits of gardening. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/11/305-lee-stewart/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, November 07, 2017
Karen Lanier on Wisdom and Wonders of Women Farmers
Recognizing the feminine nature within all and how this benefits farming. In This Podcast: Seeking out the things that felt the most important and right to her sent Karen Lanier on a journey through several states and quite a few learning adventures. Earning a degree in Environmental Documentation kept her circling around natural surroundings and she found herself with the opportunity to interview women farmers about their experiences and insights. Her reflections and awareness that are worthwhile to any farmer regardless of gender is shared in her new book The Woman Hobby Farmer. Karen is a naturalist, documentarian, teacher, artist, and gardener who explores the interconnections of nature and culture. She holds degrees in photography, foreign language, conservation studies, and documentary studies as well as a professional environmental educator certificate. She worked as a seasonal park ranger in state and national parks across the US before settling in Kentucky and her Americore volunteer experience with Seedleaf, a community gardening nonprofit. This experience helped her shift her migratory perspective on life toward putting down roots. Karen writes a regular column for Hobby Farms online magazine. She edited and co-authored the book, Wildlife in Your Garden (Lumina, 2016), and authored the book, The Woman Hobby Farmer (Fox Chapel, 2017). Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/07/304-karen-lanier/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, November 04, 2017
Rodger Wasson on Farm to Table Matters
Learning about how food gets to our tables and where it comes from. In This Podcast: Serendipity was in play when Greg waived a stranger to his table during a conference and met another farming related podcaster named Rodger Wasson. Rodger has spent the last several decades gaining experience and contacts in a variety of farming areas, from the fields to the markets, the advertising offices to policy making ones, and many versions of radio and television as well. The theme in his life appears to be him making a difference in this community of growing food. Rodger is a graduate of Illinois State University and a food and agriculture veteran. He comes from a family with five generations of American farming in their blood. And although he was the first to leave their Central Illinois grain and livestock farm, he’s continually works for and with farmers though-out America and around the world. He has managed State, National and International Councils and Boards for agricultural industries covering over a dozen commodities. Rodger is presently building a consulting firm Idea Farming Inc., and his ‘Farm to Table Talk’ podcasts have been created for anyone interested in their individual journey within the food movement, the modern food system, and the stories behind our every bite. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/11/04/303-rodger-wasson/ for show notes and links.
Tue, October 31, 2017
Lincoln Hill Garden on Community Green Spaces
Tailoring a green build project to address food insecurity, nutrition, and other community needs. In This Podcast: Diana Cuy-Castellanos and Stephen Mackell share the story of Lincoln Hill Garden, a 5-acre community green space that was built on the site of a demolished public school. This property is serving the community with gardens, an urban farm, and a natural playground. They share the background of how three organizations came together and listened to the community to build a project to fit the community as well as provide much needed assistance with healthy local produce. Diana holds a Ph.D in nutrition and food systems and is a registered dietitian teaching courses in community nutrition and food justice at the University of Dayton. Her research interests include community-based participatory research, food insecurity and food environments. Stephen started volunteering for Mission of Mary Cooperative as an undergraduate at the University of Dayton and joined the staff full-time as the production and operations manager after completing his bachelor's degree in economics and philosophy. He is also the founder of Compost Dayton, a company working to expand food scrap composting efforts by city of Dayton residents. Together they have been working on Lincoln Hill Garden, a sustainable, multipurpose urban agriculture and community green space within Dayton’s Twin Towers Neighborhood. This five-acre site, located among the residents it will serve, is being transformed with educational and recreational elements that increase neighborhood access to fresh, healthy foods and offers open green space for community gatherings and nature play. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/31/302-lincoln-hill-garden/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, October 28, 2017
Sean-Paul von Ancken on Arcosanti Convergence
Building and blending the communities of sustainability and social justice in one event. In This Podcast: Sean-Paul tells us how he found his purpose with the community of sustainability and traveling the world learning and understanding from movements and people all over. He landed at Arcosanti just north of Phoenix and is now working to help merge the communities of sustainability and social justice. He shares Arcosanti with us and then introduces the Convergence event happening over the second weekend in November. There is so much happening you need to hear him explain it to even get a taste of it all. Sean-Paul is an urbanist and community developer with a degree in planning & sustainability from the University of New Mexico. He is concerned with growing resilient food systems, and advancing ideas of good urban design. As an event producer and community organizer, his work facilitates civic engagement, conflict resolution, and social justice. Contemporary social, environmental, and economic injustice inspire Sean-Paul to join arms with activists and cultural catalysts of all varieties and from all backgrounds. His goal is to bend and blend movements together to embody and expound a new urban/social paradigm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/28/301-sean-paul-von-ancken/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Tue, October 24, 2017
Scottie Jones on City Life to Farm Life
A chat with a farmer about her transition from the city girl. In This Bonus Podcast: Returning guest Scottie Jones is back to talk about her new book and making a transition back to the simple life. She shares a bit about how the inspiration came to write the story of this adventure to start farming. She also tells why she opened her farm up to vacationers looking for a taste of the country life, and how that has helped her farm. And, we get an excerpt reading from her new book! Scottie lived in Arizona for a while where she worked at Arizona State University for over a decade. Then she and her husband gave up the busy urban life by moving to Oregon, starting Leaping Lamb Farm and becoming sheep farmers. She loved this lifestyle very much and has opened her home to visiting families through her other passion of Farm Stays. This journey and the transition to a farming lifestyle became the basis for her new book Country Grit, A Farmoir of Finding Purpose and Love through Skyhorse Publishing. It describes their first years on the farm: the mistakes, the drama, the community, and what it’s like to adopt the farming lifestyle if that’s not where you’re from. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/24/bonus-8/ for more show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, October 21, 2017
Janis Norton on The Urban Farm Projects
Digging into the invisible structure behind The Urban Farm. In This Podcast: Running any successful business or project requires some good help behind the scenes. This is true for The Urban Farm as well, and Janis Norton is one of the people who help Greg Peterson manage his dreams to change the local food system, create 10,000 seed banks in the local area, plant 100,000 fruit trees, and empower others to grow their own food. She shares about the surprise of finding her place in this non-stem field, the rewarding role of helping her community build its resilience, and opens up about some challenges of starting her own urban farm. Janis earned her degree in Sustainability from Arizona State University. Her previous experience in working classrooms, running youth programs, and Boy Scout Council Training and Camp leadership were all community and education focused. However, she did not realize how much she could do with the local food system until her Sustainable Food and Farms class. A class she took as a lark, since she had no interest in growing food. Soon after that class she became motivated to learn all she could about gardening and urban farming while using her organization and project management skills to help facilitate a couple of the Urban Farm’s larger events. From that point on, she has been an active part of the Urban Farm core team as the Program Manager as well as the Podcast Producer. She is bringing her enthusiasm and cheerful attitude to her projects at the Farm especially the Urban Farm Nursery’s Fruit Tree Program and the Urban Farm Podcast , as well as partner projects like the Great American Seed-Up and the Permaculture Design Course in Phoenix. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/21/300-janis-norton/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, October 17, 2017
Joy Stephenson-Laws on Nutrition with Fruits and Vegetables
Identifying the nutrients that your body needs. In This Podcast: A pre-med organic chemistry class showed Joy Stephenson-Laws that she was not on the right path. She did not waste that pre-med education as she now fights for patients’ rights as a health care attorney. She also tells us why she started the non-profit health information company Proactive Health Labs to help people understand what is happening in their bodies with their nutrition. An often-overlooked aspect of nutrition is the minerals in the foods and she explains why this is an important part of getting and staying healthy. In both her personal and professional life, Joy is dedicated to enhancing consumer health and positively impacting the health care industry in the United States. She is the founding and managing partner of Stephenson, Acquisto & Colman, the health care industry’s premier litigation law firm. She is also the founder of Proactive Health Labs (www.phlabs.org), a national non-profit health information company that provides education and tools needed to achieve optimal health. Joy just published her first book Minerals - The Forgotten Nutrient: Your Secret Weapon for Getting and Staying Healthy . Her passion for motivating people to proactively protect their health comes from her personal experience of losing loved ones, colleagues and friends to diseases which, had they been diagnosed early enough and treated more effectively, could either have been controlled or cured. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/17/299-joy-stephenson-laws/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great
Sat, October 14, 2017
Kathy Shea Mormino on Healthy, Happy, Hens
Keeping backyard chickens healthy through simple steps. In This Podcast: Sometimes helping a neighbor out can truly change your life in ways you never expected. Kathy Shea-Mormino changed her path from attorney to now running a successful business sharing advice through her Facebook page and blog about raising chickens. She says keeping backyard chickens should not be over-complicated and shares her simple steps to keeping the hens happy and healthy. Known as The Chicken Chick, Kathy brings an informative style and fresh perspective on raising backyard chickens to millions of fans around the world. An attorney by profession, Kathy is the founder and one-woman creative force behind her wildly popular and award-winning Facebook page and blog, The-Chicken-Chick.com. Her practical approach and sense of humor allows her to connect, educate and share an appreciation for keeping chickens as family pets as well as for their eggs. With a following of over 700,000 Facebook fans, she has become the person folks interested in keeping chickens, go to for information, advice and fun! She is also the author of the bestselling book The Chicken Chicks Guide to Backyard Chickens, Simple steps for healthy Happy Hens by Voyager Press. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/14/298-kathy-shea-mormino/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, October 10, 2017
Casey Holland on Young Farmers Making a Difference
Enriching the community, becoming the next generation of hope. In This Podcast: We meet the well-spoken farm manager Casey Holland who explains why she cares so much about her community and providing healthy food to her customers. She also introduces us to the National Young Farmers Coalition and tells us what they have been doing in her area. She has gained a lot of wisdom in a short amount of time as a farmer, and her vision and drive gives us a lot of hope for the future. Casey is a native New Mexican and young farmer committed to affecting positive social change around small-scale sustainable agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley. She graduated in 2012 from the University of New Mexico with dual degrees in Psychology / Peace Studies, and Sociology. As a requirement for her minor she did an internship with the SouthWest Organizing Project's: Project Feed the Hood. There, she found her calling when she realized the importance of the way in which our food is produced in addressing many of the issues we face locally, nationally, and globally. In 2015, she started organizing with the local chapter of the National Young Farmers Coalition, which provided her numerous opportunities to speak with government officials and learn about policies that impact her community. Since then she strives to make access to nutritious, enriching food more affordable for underprivileged families and helping her community reconnect to its agricultural roots & culture. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/10/297-casey-holland/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Wed, October 04, 2017
Peggy Fiandaca on Arizona Wines and Grapes
Growing quality grapes and wines in the Grand Canyon State. In This Podcast: At a point in their lives where they were ready for something new, Peggy Fiandaca and her husband decided to take their interest in wines to the next level. They decided to become vintners to make high quality wine and got serious about it. Now they have a 40 acres winery and a wine tasting gallery. She explains some of the wine growing history for the state and even some of the processes that vintners use to make wines. Like everything they do, they do it with style! After a slight detour through urban planning, Peggy found her true calling in growing and producing wines. With her Italian family heritage and a grandfather that produced alcohols during prohibition, this path was in her ‘vines’ so-to-speak. She and her husband Curt Dunham own a vineyard in south eastern Arizona and the LDV Wine Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona. Here she enjoys watching someone taste wine and identify the flavor characteristics for the first time, or examine a vine closely with a new appreciation for its role in producing that wine. Peggy has served two terms as the President of the Arizona Wine Growers Association, which represents wineries and vineyards statewide, and she cares deeply about all the vineyards in the state. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/07/296-peggy-fianadaca/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, October 03, 2017
Emily Mickley-Doyle on Community Agriculture
Bringing healthy food and education to urban tables through community engagement. In This Podcast: Creating a successful community health hub is no small feat, and Emily Mickley-Doyle has been part of doing just that in her part of New Orleans using an empty grocery store building, a desire to teach others how to grow food, and some fabulous ideas. The space now has several programs including a community garden, a teaching kitchen for doctors, a farmers market, and programs for the community youth to learn gardening and cooking skills. SPROUT NOLA is amazing, inspiring, and basically EPIC! Emily earned her degree in Sociology from Loyola University New Orleans in 2008. In 2011, she cofounded SPROUT NOLA, an urban farming organization that spreads the love of growing fresh, healthy food through community engagement and outreach, partnerships with local food vendors and food justice organizations, hands-on training programs, and advocacy. SPROUT NOLA grows market gardens throughout New Orleans, publicly advocates for sustainable agriculture, and coordinates the ReFresh Community Farm and market, a teaching garden that is located at the ReFresh Project. The garden offers educational resources to community members about home gardening and facilitates an on-site community garden where neighbors can grow and harvest food for themselves. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/10/03/295-emily-mickley-doyle/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sun, October 01, 2017
Lyndsay Jacobs on Starting a Small Farm
Running a machinery-free farm with nature inspired principles and techniques. In This Podcast: As one of two new millennial farmers, Lyndsay Jacobs and her business partner Lauren are working their farm using their own labor rather than rely on technology. With the exception of removing some sod in the early days, they are growing and harvesting the crops on their small farm without the use of any typical industrial machines. As they bring their vegetables to market they know they are doing the right thing by all the positive feedback they are getting from their customers! Lyndsay is a graduate of the Zenger Farm Internship Program where she learned how to address food justice issues, develop efficiency and endurance in farming methods, and best chicken husbandry practices. She earned her degree in Graphic Design & Interior Architecture from James Madison University and is using that on marketing, branding, craftsmen experience, and design expertise for farm infrastructure. She received her Permaculture Design Certificate in Portland. Lindsay and her business partner Lauren (who was our guest on episode 293) run Sprout and Blossom Farm in Vancouver, WA combining their social and environmental justice passions, with permaculture and sustainability inspired practices for animal, plant, and human systems on the farm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/30/294-lyndsay-jacobs/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 30, 2017
Lauren Krug on Starting a Farming Adventure
Starting a successful herb and vegetable farm business with a friend. In This Podcast: A taste of permaculture and agriculture in college was enough to help Lauren Krug go across the continent and try WWOOFing. That experience and some Americorp work gave her the connections to find an amazing new friend and like-minded future farming partner. So, when the opportunity happened to start a farm business on some property owned by a supportive couple, the two friends jumped. Now she and Lyndsay run an herb and vegetable farm and are making a difference in their community. Lauren earned her degree in Community Entrepreneurship from the University of Vermont. Shortly after graduation, she headed west to work on a small veggie farm. After two seasons on this farm, Lauren joined the team at the Clark County Food Bank where she served as their Americorps VISTA Local Produce Coordinator. There, she coordinated the Farming & Gleaning program delivering fresh, locally-grown produce to those in need. Lauren and her business partner Lindsay (who will be our guest on episode 294) run Sprout and Blossom Farm in Vancouver, WA combining their social and environmental justice passions, with permaculture and sustainability inspired practices for animal, plant, and human systems on the farm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/28/293-lauren-krug/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 26, 2017
Jake Mowrer on Crop Roots
Appreciating the relationship between plant roots and the life in the soil. In This Podcast: We meet Jake Mowrer and understand what brought him to his studies on soil and the relationships between crop roots and the complex community of life in the world beneath us. This often-invisible world is so essential to the foods that we eat, and the interaction between the subterranean portion of crops and the microbial lifeforms there are easily overlooked. We learn more about what is happening between these elements and why this is crucial to our semi-finite resource of soil. Jake was raised on a farm in north Georgia where his family produced broiler chickens and beef cattle. Growing up, the work was often hard, but the food was always good. Life on the farm is a good way to gain an appreciation for the connectivity of food production in our daily lives. Jake now works with farmers in Texas as a Texas A&M faculty member in the Soil and Crop Science Department, and as an Extension Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension to communicate the importance of managing soil as a natural resource. His research has become focused on the way that crop roots behave in their soil environment to better understand the best practices for keeping soils continuously functional & productive, both for people and the ecosystems we inhabit. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/26/292-jake-mowrer/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 23, 2017
Jenny Peterson on Gardening for Wellness
Connecting with nature in gardens and farms to promote hope, joy and healing. In This Podcast: It was after her cancer treatments and when she was feeling very low, that Jenny Peterson was encouraged to go into her outdoor space. The hope and healing she found during her recovery was enough that she now guides and encourages others to find their wellness through gardening and connecting with the natural world. Her experience has been a spring board to helping many others find their hope through the dark times. Jenny is an Austin, Texas-based garden designer with her own firm, J. Peterson Garden Design, as well as a writer, author and speaker. She specializes in designing, writing and speaking about gardens that enhance the quality of life, heal from the inside out, and help to create balance and wellness. She is a breast cancer survivor and the author of “The Cancer Survivor’s Garden Companion: Cultivating Hope, Healing & Joy in the Ground Beneath Your Feet” (St. Lynn’s Press 2016) and co-author of “Indoor Plant Décor: The Design Stylebook for Houseplants” (St. Lynn’s Press 2013). Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/23/291-jenny-peterson/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, September 21, 2017
Chris Gruler on Local Produce, Local Restaurants
Telling the story that helps build business in a local market. In This Podcast: After spending some time in Major League Baseball, Chris Gruler recognized the benefit of a personal story and owning your own branding. He now works with companies big and small to help identify and promote their brands, a process that one of his projects is using to help promote the restaurants in his home town. This essential of building a marketing strategy is valuable to local food businesses as well. Chris has been in the branding/internet game for close to 12 years, using his strengths in branding, storytelling, website development, and online strategy for growth. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies, professional athletes, and small businesses who are looking to expand or protect their brand online. He started ProtegeBranding.com in 2007 with the intent to assist companies and brands with their online presence. One such project dedicated to restaurants and local dining is ScottsdaleRestaurants.com where they create video reviews of local area restaurants to showcase the positive aspect of each restaurant! A key piece that they highlight is how each restaurant uses locally grown produce. Chris is all about telling stories and assists his customers in telling the right one for their brand!! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/21/290-chris-gruler/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 19, 2017
Andrew Moore on The Pawpaw Fruit
Appreciating America's forgotten fruit. In This Podcast: Amazed upon being introduced to a delicious tropical fruit that grew in temperate areas of the Americas, Andrew Moore delved into some heavy research to learn more about it. He found that this fruit has been growing on the continent for a very long time, has a rich history with both ancient fauna and early human civilizations. He tells us some of what he learned and why it has been forgotten. Andrew grew up in Lake Wales, Florida, just south of the pawpaw’s native range. He is a writer and gardener, and now lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His first book, Pawpaw, In Search of America's Forgotten Fruit was published through Chelsea Green in 2015 as a hardback and this year in paperback. It was also nominated for the James Beard Foundation Award. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/19/289-andrew-moore/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. Andrew Moore on The Pawpaw Fruit
Bonus · Mon, September 18, 2017
Seed Chat August 2017
Bonus Episode 7: Seed Chat August 2017 A chat with an expert on Seeds. In This Bonus Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the August 2017 episode with a Seed School Chat Class covering Seed School Teacher Training, a proposed Seed Saving Principles list, disaster planning, breeding program preparation, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/18/bonus-episode-7/ for show notes and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 16, 2017
Elvira Di Brigit on a Valley of Farmers in California
Connecting a community to its farmers and local food resources. In This Podcast: The community of farmers that she lived in was rich with interesting people and stories, so Elvira Di’Brigit took the time to get to know them. She shares her story of how she started farming as well as introducing a few interesting farms from her valley. Their cooperative methods of working and providing food for their community are great examples of thinking outside the box. About 17 years ago, Elvira moved her family to Capay Valley, where her passionate interest in sustainable living took hold. While teaching she explored curricula surrounding farming, environmental preservation and nutrition - all in support of sustainable living. She is the editor of CapayValleyGrown.net and the author of Why We Farm . She also serves on the organizing committee for the Hoes Down Harvest Festival, a fund-raiser for the Ecological Farming Association. Elvira holds a BA in international relations from UC Davis, a teaching credential and a Waldorf/Steiner Teaching Certificate. She lives in Rumsey, CA with her husband and 3 children. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/16/288-elvira-dibrigit/ for show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, September 14, 2017
Dani Replogle on Millennial Food Awareness
Educating and empowering the upcoming generation to be part of their food system. In This Podcast: After spending some time working at a farmers market, volunteering on an educational farm, and as a middle school science teacher, Dani Replogle has found her way to law school. Now she studies environmental law and food law and has some insight on how millennials are taking part in not just local food, but also food activism. Her passion comes through with her story and the other information she shares, which gives hope that the next generation is paying attention to where their food comes from and how the environment is being cared for. Dani is a second-year law student at Lewis & Clark in Portland, Oregon. She fell in love with the sustainable food movement while working as an eighth-grade science teacher in Colorado and spending her Saturdays managing a stand at the Boulder Farmers Market. Dani spent the past summer working toward a sustainable food system model at Center for Food Safety, and will continue working for the public interest throughout the coming semester. When not reading textbooks, she spends her time climbing mountains, writing poetry, and playing ultimate frisbee. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/14/287-dani-replogle/ show notes and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 12, 2017
Emily Rockey on How Life Begins in the Soil
Breaking down the recipe for good, healthy soil. In This Podcast: The ingredients for healthy soil make up an essential recipe for gardeners and farmers, and is worth describing a few times until the perfect connection is made. Emily Rockey appreciates good soil so much that she earned the nickname "The Dirt Girl" and she loves helping others appreciate compost and soil. She has something important to say to those who think they have a ‘black thumb’! Emily received her degree in Plant Sciences from the University of Arizona. In the past, she worked at Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania, Walt Disney World's Epcot Center, and the Tucson Botanical Gardens. She is currently the Director of Sales and Marketing for the tank's Green Stuff in Tucson, which specializes in "green" landscape debris recycling, construction debris recycling, and more. Emily brings her passion for both plants and recycling to the company’s composting operation. This is where they convert landscape debris into organic compost which is then returned to gardens and green spaces. They offer an entire line of organic garden and landscape materials which are “Good for People, Plants, and Planet”; and are available under the name ‘Tank’s Green Stuff’. With her nickname ‘The Dirt Girl’, it is not hard to see that Emily loves talking about the importance of compost, microbes, and soil. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/12/286-emily-rockey/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests. #UrbanFarmPodcast #goodsoil #TanksGreenStuff
Bonus · Mon, September 11, 2017
Ask Jake & Greg - August 2017
An August 2017 Q&A session with two experts on Gardening and Fruit Trees Jake Mace the Vegan Athlete and Greg Peterson of The Urban Farm are both gardening educators offering classes, podcasts, and videos on a large variety of gardening topics. Every month they get together for a monthly gardening chat to discuss what is going on in their gardens and answer your questions. This is the August 2017 Q&A episode with a variety of questions addressed from planning for planting, building healthy soil, and much more. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/11/bonus-episode-6/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 09, 2017
Cyfrin Barefoot on Moving From Poverty to Paleo
Cyfrin Barefoot on Moving from Poverty to Paleo. In This Podcast: She had a feral childhood in the ghetto of Detroit and entered the foster care system at age 7. Later, as a young mother Cyfrin Barefoot wanted good food for her own children and became an organic farmer. Then, she fought for better food options for poor families on WIC and won. And, after a significant and heartbreaking business setback she rebounded to create a health-food business offering delicious foods that even fit paleo diet preferences. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/savortooth for more information Cyfrin's childhood was rooted in deep poverty in the Detroit ghetto. As an adult, she raised six children and found an avocation of fighting for food justice. She made her living as an organic farmer for seven years, and later founded a non-profit that established and ran a 32-acre organic farm. Spurred by memories of childhood hunger and informed by years of farming, Cyfrin’s creative instincts came together in the creation of the Free Farms project. She obtained a business degree and then created Savor Tooth Paleo, a gluten-free and paleo bakery. Company profits will be funneled into the acquisition and development of land in impoverished neighborhoods, as well as funding ongoing food production. The fresh organic food produced on these Free Farms will be available to area residents for free . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/09/285-cyfrin-barefoot/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, September 07, 2017
Lynn Williams on the Decline of the Honey Bees
Engineering a solution to a real threat affecting honey bees worldwide. In This Podcast: Having spent decades as a problem solver, Lynn Williams was not going to let a devastating influx of a tiny but effective killer mite threaten the existence of his beloved bees. He engineered a new tool for beekeepers is proving itself as a mite killer without damaging the hive, the honey or the bees. All this and he still has another ace up his sleeve as the profits from this new product will be used to help under-privileged kids go to camp. After a long career on both the engineering and sales sides of industrial supply, Lynn started the hobby of beekeeping to increase the productivity of his family’s gardens. A decade and a half later, and with many more hives he was frustrated to find the Varroa Destructor Mite had entered the local area. Unwilling to use pesticides, he elected to use his engineering background to find a solution. 2½ years later Lynn has an all-natural organic product that terminates the Varroa Mite without harming the bees. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/07/284-lynn-williams/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, September 05, 2017
Elizabeth Murphy on The Importance of Healthy Soil
Understanding the living matrix that affects the quality of our food. In This Podcast: Having been drawn to the wonders of soil quality early on, Elizabeth Murphy has studied this living matrix in great detail. She wants to make soil care an intuitive concept that all growers have. Today she shares some of the basics and with us including the make-up of soil, why cover crops are important and a few important DOs and DON’Ts of creating healthy soil. Elizabeth has a passion for growing food which led her to a master's degree in soil science from University of California, Davis, where she researched soil's organic matter storage and a farmer's ability to improve it. She was a faculty instructor for Oregon State University Extension's Small Farms Program, where she taught and consulted with gardeners and farmers about best management practices to build healthy soils. Since 2006, Elizabeth has owned a half-acre garden in southern Oregon, which she considers her laboratory for experimenting with sustainable soil management and gardening practices for landscapes and vegetables. She is the author of Building Soil: A Down to Earth Approach and currently, she lives in Tacoma, Washington. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/05/283-elizabeth-murphy/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, September 02, 2017
Stephanie Elson Bruneau on Benevolent Bees
Understanding a gentle and helpful creature essential to our food production. In This Podcast: It was a simple and unexpected class that ignited Stephanie Elson Bruneau’s passion for beekeeping and many others are benefiting from this as well. She takes the time to explain some of the key aspects of bees and beekeeping, as well as clear up some common misconceptions about a gentle and helpful creature of the natural world. Her story includes a couple of EPIC moments that hopefully will inspire you to seek out something for your own passion! Stephanie is a beekeeper, herbalist, and artist. She runs The Benevolent Bee, where she spends her time educating all of us about bees. At the Benevolent Bee "Teaching Apiary" Stephanie observes, learns, and teaches about bees and bee behavior to students of all ages. Stephanie also teaches classes about bees and their products at Northeastern University, The Cambridge Center for Adult and Community Education, The Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania, The Boston School of Herbal Studies, and Temple University. She is also the author of an aptly named book titled The Benevolent Bee . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/09/02/282-stephanie-elson-bruneau/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, August 31, 2017
Shawna Coronado on Gardening Hacks
Making gardening easier through a series of simple shortcuts, and changing your life through gardening. In This Podcast: Initially we thought this might be an episode that focused on gardening hacks, and Shawna Coronado has over 100 hacks to share, so we did get to hear some cool ideas. Yet there was so much more to the conversation as important mindsets to help make gardening and life in general less stressful and more enjoyable became a topic that stole the show. Her infectious attitude is sure to help put you at ease and might help you focus on the things you love too! Shawna is an author, columnist, blogger, photographer, and spokesperson for organic gardening, green lifestyle living, and culinary preparation, as wells as and avid campaigner for social good. Her goal in authoring gardening and green lifestyle books is to promote a world initiative to encourage healthy and sustainable living. Shawna was featured as a Chicago Tribune "Remarkable Woman" and speaks internationally on building community, simple urban garden living, and green lifestyle tips for the everyday person. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/31/281-shawna-coronado/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 29, 2017
Nancy Lawson on Humane Gardening
Using native plants to creatively interact with wildlife and avoid landscaping conflicts. In This Podcast: If you are a person who really cares about all wildlife and creatures great and small then it probably bothers you a lot if an animal is killed through human carelessness. This is the podcast for you. Nancy Lawson writes about smart gardening choices that can reduce the problems of invasive animals and insects, thereby reducing the need to cull or harm bothersome animals. Even if you are not particularly protective of animals, she has ideas that can help reduce problematic visits and save your garden plants and veggies. Nancy is a columnist for All Animals magazine, as well as the founder of Humane Gardener - an outreach initiative dedicated to cultivating compassion for all creatures great and small through animal-friendly, environmentally-sensitive landscaping methods. She speaks frequently to local & national audiences, and volunteers as both a master naturalist and master gardener in central Maryland. Nancy is the author of The Humane Gardener: Nurturing a Backyard Habitat for Wildlife , published by Princeton Architectural Press in April 2017 and highlighted in Oprah magazine, the Washington Post, and Library Journal Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/29/280-nancy-lawson/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 26, 2017
Cindy Tran on The Moreland Food System Strategy
Helping one city understand the realities of food insecurity. In This Podcast: Finishing her master’s degree required a semester project and Cindy Tran’s had fallen through since the city food policy she was going to evaluate had not been passed yet. Realizing the city leaders either did not fully understand what food security was or how significant the issue of food insecurity was for their own citizens, she developed a new project to fix this. Cindy spent her semester gathering all the evidence, including what city already commissioned, and helped frame it in a report that convinced them there was an issue and that it could be tackled. This helped the city take action and the resulting food system strategy is one worth emulating in many other cities. Cindy completed a Bachelor of Biomedicine degree at the University of Melbourne with a major in Pathology and matured her quantitative research skills at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute as a research student. She subsequently completed her Masters of Public Health at the University of Melbourne. Cindy specialized in health policy & promotion, and developed a good understanding of the Australian Health Care System. She has a strong interest in obesity and diabetes and how these are influenced by our cities and food system. Cindy produced a background report collating local evidence about the issue of food security within the City of Moreland. This report contributed to the endorsement of the Moreland Food System Strategy in May 2017. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/26/279-cindy-tran/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, August 24, 2017
Margret Aldrich on Little Free Libraries
Inspiring creativity in communities everywhere. In This Podcast: It was a lucky find that inspired Margret Aldrich to change her direction and motivated her to write a book about how the finding or creating that same thing has affected many others. The Little Free Library project is going worldwide and with each little one there is more community building, inspiration ignited, and enlightenment coming to pass. Learn how you can partake of this through the Little Free Library Movement! Margret is the author of The Little Free Library Book through Coffee House Press, and has published her work with The Atlantic , The Huffington Post , Experience Life , and beyond. From Little Free Libraries to tiny houses, integrative medicine to introverted kids, digital detoxing to co-op bookstores, her writing hunts for happiness, community, and what makes humans thrive. A former editor at Utne Reader, longtime book editor, and seasoned news producer, Margret is now the programming manager at the Little Free Library nonprofit organization and is a regular contributor to Book Riot. She lives in Minneapolis, MN with her husband, two entertaining young boys, a little garden, and of course her own Little Free Library. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/24/278-margret-aldrich/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 22, 2017
Joseph Martinez on Microgreens
Building a business on the tiniest greens. In This Podcast: As a young adult with an unfocused passion, Joseph Martinez was looking for something that he could feel good doing. His travels gave him little nudges in the right direction, but things did not really come clear until he decided to start a business with his brother and got some unexpected advice from a client. Just a few years later, they have a thriving business growing microgreens and he’s loving the difference he is making and the meaningfulness that exists in his life. Joseph is a co-founder of Arizona Microgreens, an urban farm in Phoenix which produces microgreens for restaurants, schools, and individuals throughout the state of Arizona. Using a DIY approach of starting small and growing incrementally, Joseph and his brother built their start-up from a 200-square-foot self-built greenhouse, to a social enterprise model operating out of a 13,000-square-foot greenhouse today. Initially focused on the fine-dining market, Arizona Microgreens is now producing microgreens for farm-to-school programs, naturopathic clinics, and a much broader range of diverse customers. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/22/277-joseph-martinez/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Mon, August 21, 2017
Seed Chat July 2017 with Julia Coffey and Bill McDorman
Bonus Episode 5: Seed Chat July 2017 A chat with experts on Seeds, Bill McDorman and Julia Coffey. In This BONUS Podcast:Bill McDorman brings a friend and fellow seed enthusiast Julia Coffey to the chat to help explain about running a seed business. Together they talk to Greg about being a seed grower, germination testing, maintaining seed projects, running a seed business and much more in this the July 2017 episode of Seed School Chat. Julia Coffey is the president of Seeds Trust: an incredible company dedicated to encouraging customers to save seeds and reverse the loss of biodiversity not only in our backyards but around the world. She is from Denver, Colorado and when not measuring out seeds, printing packets, growing tomatoes, hunting down the most resilient and special seed varieties, she likes to take full advantage of the magnificent swath of Rocky Mountains by hiking, backpacking, climbing, and breathing fresh air. She likes to sing and is a member of the Colorado choir, an 80s a cappella group, a hip hop a cappella group, and a rock and roll/blues band. She graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with degrees in Linguistics and French and lived in France teaching English and learning about local food market economies vs. the global industrialized food model. She met Bill McDorman while visiting a permaculture farm in Lyons, CO. He was giving a lecture on seeds and seed diversity and it genuinely changed her life. She immediately found him after the lecture and told him she wanted to be involved in whatever way she could. She ended up attending one of Bill and Belle's first Seed School workshops and continued to apprentice with him in Cornville, Arizona. Julia helped Bill and Belle run Seeds Trust until she bought the business from him in 2011. She then returned to Denver to provide high altitude adapted seed to mountain growers. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/21/bonus-episode-5/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 19, 2017
Andy Schneider on Living the Chicken Dream
Meeting the first 'Poultry Personality' of Backyard Poultry. In This Podcast: His hobby of raising chickens developed into helping others succeed in raising their own. This led Andy Schneider into becoming the first well known "poultry personality" in the world of backyard poultry and eventually running a business that he loves. He uses this notoriety to help correct misinformation through science and fact. Better known as The Chicken Whisperer, Andy has become the go-to guy for anything chicken related. He has helped countless people start their own backyard flocks and has assisted in changing more laws around the country to allow backyard chickens than anyone else. He is a well-known radio personality as the host of the Backyard Poultry with The Chicken Whisperer radio show, as well as the Editor-in-Chief of Chicken Whisperer Magazine, the National Spokesperson for the USDA-APHIS Biosecurity for Birds Program, and author of The Chicken Whisperer’s Guide to Keeping Chickens . Andy travels around the U.S. educating people through science-based, fact-based, and study-based information about the many benefits of keeping backyard chickens and how to ensure they stay healthy and free from disease. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/19/276-andy-schneider/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, August 17, 2017
Gianaclis Caldwell on Cheesemaking Basics.
Covering some basic questions about making cheese at home In This Podcast: Having a small dairy farm is very helpful if you are going to make cheese at home, and Gianaclis Caldwell shares some of the truths she collected as she learned to make her own cheeses. She helps explain some of the differences between common cheeses as well as how slight changes in the process can change the resulting cheese. Gianaclis is the main cheese-maker, milker and owner of Pholia Farm, a licensed dairy located on 24 acres in southern Oregon. Her farm is well known for its artisan, aged raw milk cheeses; as well as classes on small-dairy, goat husbandry, and cheese-making at all levels. Her book, Mastering Artisan Cheesemaking by Chelsea Green Publishing, has received praise and awards from all levels of the cheese world for her writing and photography. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/17/275-gianaclis-caldwell/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 15, 2017
Deb Kolaras on Small Farming and Local Economies
Working together with other small farms to provide farm goods to a local economy. In This Podcast: Not having enough eggs to keep her farm stand stocked, Deb Kolaras reached out to a couple neighboring small farms to add their products to hers. What has developed is a successful honor based farm stand that neighbors shop to find their fresh produce, eggs and cheeses. Using her marketing background she is focusing a local economy to support small farmers. Trading her digital marketing agency in Boulder, Colorado, for a small farm in rural Virginia, Deb and her husband set out to expand their backyard hobby farming into a slightly larger and more sustainable homestead. While restoring a 1907 farmhouse, they’re raising chickens & goats, and selling the food products at their roadside honor farm-stand. Other local micro farms also sell produce and goods in Deb’s farm stand as she is working to help improve her local microeconomy by networking and supporting small farmers and producers in her county. Her background is in business, but she’s always had a passion for making, building, re-purposing, and then harvesting the goods from those labors. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/15/274-deb-kolaras/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 12, 2017
Hilary Kearney on Beekeeping
Buzzing through some basics on bees, hives and honey. In This Podcast: Starting from a bucket list item on her boyfriend's wall, Hilary Kearney jumped into the world of beekeeping and found her passion. She teaches us some basics about bees, beekeeping, and the honey that they produce. She also shares some tips for new beekeepers including some highlights of introducing new queens to a hive. If you've had an interest in beekeeping, this might just help you jump in too! Hilary owns and operates Girl Next Door Honey, and is a full-time beekeeper in her home town of San Diego, California where she provides educational opportunities for hundreds of new beekeepers each year. She is the author of the blog Beekeeping Like A Girl and maintains a popular Instagram account with over 42,000 followers around the world who are inspired by her beekeeping exploits and unique business model. When she’s not rescuing bee hives, teaching classes, photographing bees or managing one of her sixty colonies… she’s sleeping and dreaming of bees. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/12/273-hilary-kearney/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, August 10, 2017
Lori Rose on School Garden Programs
Motivating the necessary people to create and maintain a lasting grade school garden program. In This Podcast: A class project for her community college biology students to create a school garden at an elementary school challenged Lori Rose to move from the theoretical world to the epic one she has created for the local grade schools in her community. The tricky part was that she did not know how to garden at the time. She did not let that stop her, and it built into an amazing and EPIC new program at her college. Her lessons learned on how to make a school garden project that lasts are valuable indeed. Lori is a college instructor for biology, nutrition, herbal and wellness classes, as well as a board-certified nutrition professional & holistic nutrition consultant, registered herbalist, and holistic health coach. She also created, developed, and instructs in, the Hill College Holistic Wellness Pathway program in Cleburne, Texas. Lori is a wife & mother, city class teacher, and passionate Zumba dancer! She loves spreading love & light, and helping others feel great on the inside & out so they can live their dreams! When not doing all that, she is an organic gardener of vegetables, fruits, & medicinal herbs, at home and at the Hill College school garden. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/10/272-lori-rose/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 08, 2017
Brigitte Mars on Identifying Wild Plants
Learning the identity and uses for common plants growing wild in North America. In This Podcast: Sharing her knowledge about wild herbs and plants is exactly what Brigitte Mars wants to do and she used modern technology to reach this goal. After an inspiring walk with a couple of Navy Seals, she focused on making a new mobile app specifically to help identify wild plants and educate on their uses and dangers if any. She shares with us some common plant and what they are useful for along with a few suggestions on how to protect plants in your areas. Brigitte is an herbalist and nutritional consultant of Natural Health with almost fifty years of experience. She is also the author of more than a dozen books and DVDs. However, today we are most interested in her mobile app for wild plant reference called iPlant. She teaches Herbal Medicine at Naropa University, and The School of Health Mastery in Iceland and has taught at Esalen, Kripalu, the Arise Festival and Mayo Clinic. Brigitte is the author of more than a dozen books and DVDs, including - The Home Reference to Holistic Health and Healing , The Country Almanac of Home Remedies , and her most recent book through Storey Publishing called Natural First Aid . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/08/271-brigitte-mars/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Mon, August 07, 2017
Bonus Episode: Ask Jake and Greg - July 2017
Bonus Episode 4: Ask Jake and Greg. A July 2017 Q&A session with two experts on Gardening and Fruit Trees. In This BONUS Podcast: Jake Mace the Vegan Athlete and Greg Peterson of The Urban Farm are both gardening educators offering classes, podcasts, and videos on a large variety of gardening topics. Every month they get together for a monthly gardening chat to discuss what is going on in their gardens and answer your questions. This is the JULY 2017 Q&A episode with a variety of questions addressed from planning for planting, building healthy soil, and much more. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/07/bonus-episode-4-ask-jake-and-greg/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, August 05, 2017
Colin McCrate on High Yield Vegetables
Improving results in your garden through planning and record keeping. In This Podcast: Putting a brand new edible landscape together for homeowners and even apartment communities in the Seattle area is just another work day for Colin McCrate, and he loves it. So, after several years and many gardens built & maintained, he has learned a thing or two about how to improve the production of vegetables. He helps explain some of that here and shares a few of his tips and techniques. Colin has been growing food organically for the past 15 years. He worked on a variety of small farms in the Midwest before moving to the west coast in 2003 to teach garden-based environmental education. He quickly realized that Washington is the most beautiful state in the Union, and has been farming, teaching and designing landscapes there ever since. He founded the Seattle Urban Farm Company in January of 2007 and still looks forward to planting potatoes every spring. Colin is the author of two books High-Yield Vegetable Gardening published by Storey Publishing and Food Grown Right, In Your Backyard . Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/05/270-colin-mccrate/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, August 03, 2017
Sarah Sanchez on Lyme Disease
Spreading Education and support about an oft dismissed, yet devastating disease. In This Podcast: There is a disease spreading across the United States and other countries, unchecked and in many cases dismissed or ignored, at great physical, emotional and financial cost. Sarah Schlichte Sanchez was infected in a state that supposedly did not have Lyme disease, so getting answers and help was almost impossible. Now she spends much of her time helping others who need support and information about this ruthless illness. She shares her story here. Sarah contracted Lyme Disease as a teenager, however it took 17 years of pain and suffering before she received an accurate diagnosis. Since starting treatment at the age of 37, she has devoted her time to help others cope with the daily struggles of living with a chronic illness. She is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur, and together with her husband Aaron, produces a regular podcast called LymeVoice. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/03/269-sarah-sanchez/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, August 01, 2017
Julie Murphree on Marketing the Direct-Market Farm
Assisting urban and rural farmers negotiate the maze of promotion and marketing. In This Podcast: When agriculture is a serious passion, then one way or another your path will probably lead you to a place like a state farm bureau. Julie Murphree cares so much about helping farmers find ways to succeed that she wrote a book and tries to personally deliver them when she visits farms in her state. Her years of experience and her network of agriculture resources help her bring a bounty of ideas to new or struggling farmers, as well as to those who are ready to move up to the next level. Julie previously ran her own public relations & marketing firm supporting clients in the agriculture and technology industries before joining the Arizona Farm Bureau as the Outreach Director. She works with farmers and ranchers throughout the state to advance the importance of agriculture as a food security issue for our state and the nation. Julie is a native of Arizona, grew up on a cotton and alfalfa farm in Pinal County where she was in production agriculture with her parents until 2005. She is the author of two books, Fresh Air and A Farmer's Guide to Marketing the Direct-Market Farm published by the AZ Farm Bureau. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/08/01/268-julie-murphree/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 29, 2017
Jim Thebaut on Food, Water and National Security
Addressing the impact water scarcity will have on food resources on a national level. In This Podcast: Filmmaker and environmental planner Jim Thebaut has been working hard to educate others about serious issues involving the water-food nexus which can have a major impact on national security. Although his upcoming film is regionally based, the consequences can have tremendous reach. His message can be applied to any area and needs to be considered by all policy makers as they are faced with decisions that have lasting impacts. Jim is a former Regional Environmental Planner and was responsible for numerous Environmental Impact Statements, and Planning Studies in Washington, Idaho, Oregon and Alaska. He is currently president and CEO of The Chronicles Group, a not-for-profit corporation focusing on educating the public through media about profound issues that affect both human and ecological systems He has written, produced and directed an array of prominent, socially significant productions, including “The Iceman Tapes,” A&E’s “Bad Cops,” and “Execution at Midnight.” His environmentally focused pieces include “ Running Dry ” a documentary regarding the worsening global humanitarian water crisis, along with its follow up “ The American Southwest: Are We Running Dry? ”, and “ Beyond the Brink ” a film on how food shortages like the one in California's San Joaquin Valley will lead to a National Security Threat (to be released Fall 2017). Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/29/267-jim-thebaut/ for more information on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, July 27, 2017
Jonathan Pereira on What is Beyond Sustainable
266: Jonathan Pereira on What is Beyond Sustainable. Creating a circular economy system with cooperating businesses for shared benefits. In This Podcast: Cooperating business that work together to succeed as they reduce the waste stream at the same time. While this might sound unrealistic, this concept is succeeding through a project in Chicago, and Jonathan Pereira tells us more about how it came about. Plant Chicago is working to help bring the concept of circular economy into practice anywhere they can through education and inspiration. Jonathan holds a BS in Geology and a Masters in Science Education, and has worked as an informal science educator for over 15 years before joining the non-profit organization Plant Chicago. He has developed numerous innovative programs including Greencorps Youth Program in Chicago, and Greentrack at Manhattan Comprehensive Night-and-Day High School in New York. In 2012, he was nominated with his students from Global High School for the Zayed Future Energy Prize. As Executive Director, Jonathan is working to bring the circular economy to life inside Plant Chicago and outward to the neighborhood. He sees a future where businesses work together to ensure both the economy and the environment are thriving. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/27/266-jonathan-pereira/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 25, 2017
Kateen Fitzgerald on Designing Dynamic Food Systems
Shifting a food-growing landscape into a more natural system In This Podcast: Learning about many different methods to garden, Kateen Fitzgerald kept going and learning until she found the program that put everything into place for her. Now she teaches others about permaculture, dynamic designing, and working with nature to cultivate a landscape to a beautiful and productive result. She talks about what can be gained from the many concepts of landscape design that has become her passion. Kateen is a tree of many branches; she’s a design consultant, mentor, teacher, farmer, gardener, and mom. After 20 years of teaching and mentoring, she decided to create something more. In 2007, she purchased 40 acres of land near Port Townsend, WA and built Compass Rose Farms, a bio-intensive family farm and homestead. Two years later she began an internship program to teach modern homesteading, holistic animal wifery, and regenerative food systems. Effectively, converting the farm into a permaculture demonstration site, she then founded The Dirt Rich School, a nonprofit education program dedicated to “Empowering people to live in abundance and thrive in a changing world.” Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/25/265-kateen-fitzgerald/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Mon, July 24, 2017
Bonus Episode 3: Brendan Gaughran on Healthy Living (264.5)
Bonus Episode 3: Brendan Gaughran on Liver Health. Chat with an expert on Gut Health. In This BONUS Podcast: Brendan Gaughran was a podcast guest not too long before this interview which took place one evening as Greg invited him back to discuss gut health further and specifically focus on liver health. This is a variety of health and nutrition issues brought into an easy to understand perspective. Brendan holds a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Connecticut and his MBA from Bentley University. He has spent 15 years in the Healthcare field and was an executive for a major nutraceutical manufacturer before starting multiple companies of his own, the latest being Liver Medic. He conducts health lectures to both physicians and the public. His research focuses primarily on gut health, liver health, endocrine system, adrenal fatigue and optimum diets. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/24/bonus-3-brendan-gaughran/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 22, 2017
Anne Biklé on Microbial Roots of Life and Health
264: Anne Biklé on Microbial Roots of Life and Health Mapping the nutritional highway that connects healthy soil to healthy plants In This Podcast: The microscopic world of fungi and other soil organisms is crucial to the health of soil, plants and any being that lives off those plants. Biologist Anne Biklé understands the relationship between the lifeforms which create the microbiome that starts the food chains, and helps explain the basics in this conversation. Anne is a biologist and avid gardener whose wide-ranging interests have led her into watershed restoration, environmental planning, and public health. She uses her broad background and endless fascination with the natural world to investigate and write about people and their environments. Anne is also a rampant plant whisperer, coaxing plants into rambunctious growth or nursing them back from the edge of death. She uses her garden, a nearby traffic circle and sidewalk planting strip as places to watch plants, people, and their interactions. She co-wrote The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health with her husband David Montgomery who was our guest on episode 259. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/22/264-anne-bikle/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, July 20, 2017
263: Deanna Cook on Kids and Farmers Markets
263: Deanna Cook on Kids and Farmers Markets Creating an early love of healthy foods and cooking through fun activities. In This Podcast: Encouraging kids to enjoy healthy cooking and eating is an investment in their future, and Deanna Cook has some activities to help make that a little easier and a lot more fun. Working with kids, learning how they enjoy cooking, and helping them have fun in the kitchen has been a focus of hers since just after high school. She has used this experience to create several fun books to help parents teach healthy lifestyles early. Deanna graduated from college and received a Watson Fellowship to travel around the world and collect recipes from kids. This led her to write her first book The Kids' Multicultural Cookbook. Keeping her focus on kids and cooking, she has been the creative development director at FamilyFun, an editor at both Scholastic and Disney, and is currently the content director at Kidstir.com , and kids’ book and cookbook acquisitions editor at Storey Publishing. Deanna, has written dozens of award-winning books for kids including Baking Class , the best-selling Cooking Class, and Farmers Market Create-and-Play Activity Book. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/20/263-deanna-cook/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 18, 2017
262: Bill Sadler on Nutrition to the Soil and Plants
262: Bill Sadler on Nutrition to the Soil and Plants Developing solutions for our growing mediums In This Podcast: Soil nutrition is not just a simple matter to Dr. Bill Sadler; it is so significant that feeding the life in the soil is central to the whole life cycle. He explains the importance of healthy nutrition for the multiple families of organisms in the soil, as well as why different groups need different foods. He also shares why noticing which weeds are growing can help you understand what is happening in your soil. Bill began farming at the age of eight, when under the watchful eye of his father, he both successfully managed his own tomato & vegetable stand selling his own harvests, and helped raise Nubian dairy goats on the family farm. When his family purchased a large farm in rural Missouri, he and his father developed a cattle operation and planted their own vineyard. His father’s pioneering influence and background in agriculture and sustainable farming led Bill to appreciate these methods long before they were considered “cool.” Bill earned his PhD in Biochemistry, and with skills as a proven problem solver, focuses on developing green and sustainable solutions for a wide range of products and services. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/18/262-bill-sadler/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 15, 2017
261: Brigitte Mars on Natural First Aid
261: Brigitte Mars on Natural First Aid Preparing a resource for quick response to emergency incidents with simple and natural ingredients. In This Podcast: She knew that she wanted to avoid needing doctors ever since she was very young. So, Brigitte Mars has spent her entire life learning about and using natural herbs, plants, and oils for health and the prevention and treatment of minor ails. She shares with us the essentials of a good first aid kit and several examples of first aid remedies. Brigitte is an herbalist and nutritional consultant of Natural Health with almost fifty years of experience. She teaches Herbal Medicine at Naropa University, and The School of Health Mastery in Iceland and has taught at Esalen, Kripalu, the Arise Festival and Mayo Clinic. Brigitte is the author of more than a dozen books and DVDs, including - The Home Reference to Holistic Health and Healing , The Country Almanac of Home Remedies , and her most recent book through Storey Publishing called Natural First Aid . She also created a wild plant reference app called iPlant Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/15/261-brigitte-mars/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, July 13, 2017
Amanda Jordan-Starks on Vacant Land into Urban Gardens
260: Amanda Jordan-Starks on Vacant Land into Urban Gardens Nourishing a community and its youth through transformative garden programs on vacant properties. In This Podcast: Vacant lands can become whatever you see in them, and for Amanda Jordan Starks she sees potential. Potential for her community, and especially the youth that can grow and blossom by working the land and growing the food that nourishes the people that make up the community. She tells us more about the programs that are working to make this happen in her area. Amanda is third generation Californian, raised in a small coastal town near the Oregon border. She went to the University of California, San Diego to pursue a degree in International Studies-Political Science, and obtained her Master's degree in Social Justice. Amanda currently works with UrbanLife Ministries, and directs its youth outreach and community development activities. Her love for growing food and serving youth came together when she began directing the UrbanLife Farms program which uses vacant land to grow local, healthy produce and provide job skills training to teenagers. Her favorite veggies are radishes and artichokes! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/13/260-amanda-jordan-starks/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 11, 2017
David Montgomery on Bringing Our Soil Back to Life
259: David Montgomery on Bringing Our Soil Back to Life. Using a geology background to understand regenerative soil processes. In This Podcast: Studying the surface formation of the earth usually means looking at geological processes taking place over long periods of time. Geologist David Montgomery, however, became interested in studying more than just rocks and focused on something a bit more connected to life on earth and in the soil. As a non-farmer, his outsider’s perspective might help others understand the crucial processes taking place in regenerating this very necessary material for food production. David is a MacArthur Fellow and professor of geomorphology at the University of Washington. He is an internationally recognized geologist who studies landscape evolution and the effects of geological processes on ecological systems and human societies. An author of award-winning popular-science books, he has been featured in documentary films, network and cable news, and on a wide variety of TV and radio programs, including NOVA, PBS NewsHour, Fox and Friends, and All Things Considered. David has written two books on soil: Growing A Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life, and The Hidden Half of Nature: The Microbial Roots of Life and Health which he co-wrote with his wife Anne Biklé. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/11/259-david-montgomery/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Mon, July 10, 2017
Bonus Episode 2: Seed Chat June 2017
Bonus Episode 2: Seed Chat June 2017 A chat with an expert on Seeds, Bill McDorman In This BONUS Podcast: There is always a bounty of information available in conversations with Bill McDorman. This is the June 2017 episode with a Seed School Chat Class covering Seed School Online, de-hybridization, seed patents, and so much more. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He authored the book, Basic Seed Saving, in 1994. In 2010, he and his wife Belle Starr created Seed School, a nationally recognized week-long training. He served as Executive Director of Native Seeds/SEARCH from 2011 to 2014. Bill is a passionate and knowledgeable presenter who inspires his audiences to learn to save their own seeds. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/10/bonus-episode-2-bill-mcdorman/ for show notes
Sat, July 08, 2017
Deb Burns on How to Get a Farming Book Published
258: Deb Burns on How to Get a Farming Book Published. Writing and publishing books for urban farmers, homesteaders and nature lovers. In This Podcast. Helping authors get published is what Deb Burns has done for more than two decades. She explains a lot about the process and helps break it down and make it easier to understand for aspiring authors. If you have considered writing a book, this might help you get past some of those hurdles you’ve built. Storey Publishing is a prolific publisher of farming and gardening books. Having roots going back to the 1970’s, their in-house editors and designers embrace the challenge of complementing each author’s work with book design, editing, and original illustration or photography to enhance the book’s distinctiveness and make it accessible as well as practical. We have had many Storey authors on our show and thought it might be great to get useful information on how to get your book published. Deb has been an Acquiring Editor at Storey Publishing for 23 years, where she oversees books on farming, animals, and nature. She attended Bard College and UC Berkeley and currently lives in the beautiful Berkshires of Massachusetts. She loves making music and traveling the world and has authored books on history and travel. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/08/258-deb-burns/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, July 06, 2017
Laura Allen on Greywater
257: Laura Allen on Greywater Exploring low-tech, sustainable water solutions for urban homes and landscapes. In this Podcast: A determination to save money and help the environment was the beginning of a career in water conservation and education for Laura Allen. She tells us why water solutions became so important to her, as well as gives us an understanding of what a greywater system is and why anyone can set up an easy one for themselves. There are many different options to customize a functioning system and she helps explain the differences. Laura has spent the past 15 years exploring low-tech, urban, sustainable water solutions, while earning a BA in environmental science, a teaching credential, and a master’s degree in education. Plus, she participated in the CA and WA state greywater code development committee. She puts this to use by presenting at conferences, leading classes and workshops on rainwater harvesting, greywater reuse, and composting toilets. Laura is the author of Greywater, Green Landscape, and The Water-Wise Home: How to Capture, Conserve, and Reuse Water in Your Home and Landscape . Both published by Storey Publishing. She is also the co-founder of GreywaterAction.org, an education based organization that teaches people how to design and install greywater systems and was the 2014 recipient of the Silicon Valley Water Conservation Award of Water Champion. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/06/257-laura-allen/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Tue, July 04, 2017
Tammi Hartung on the Versatility of Plants
256: Tammi Hartung on the Versatility of Plants. Discovering amazing uses for herbs, weeds and other common North American plants. In This Podcast: Curiosity about the uses and benefits of plants led Tammi Hartung to do some pretty interesting research. She has a significant knowledge base to pull from since she loves plants and has over 1200 varieties on her farm, yet she wanted to know more and shares a little of what she found. There are some amazing surprises that blew our mind, let us know if you think so too. Tammi is an ethnobotanical herbalist, organic farmer, author and international speaker. She has been working with plants for more than 37 years. She and her husband, Chris, own Desert Canyon Farm, a certified organic farm in southern Colorado where they grow more than 1200 different varieties of plants. Tammi is the author of several books including the national bestseller Homegrown Herbs , The Wildlife-Friendly Vegetable Gardener , and her newest book Cattail Moonshine & Milkweed Medicine , Published by Storey Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/04/256-tammi-hartung/ for more information & links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Sat, July 01, 2017
Gianaclis Caldwell on Holistic Goat Care
255: Gianaclis Caldwell on Holistic Goat Care Considering the whole picture of raising goats and their benefits. In this podcast: Raising goats in a holistic and nurturing manner is second nature to Gianaclis Caldwell. She shares with us some uplifting and useful advice on caring for these unique farm animals, including the three most important things to know about them. She also tells how she and her husband started their dairy farm from scratch and off-the-grid, raised their family, and now they host guests who get to know the intricacies of goat farming. This is a great resource for anyone considering raising goats. In addition to actively managing their dairy goats, Gianaclis is the main cheesemaker, milker and owner of Pholia Farm, a licensed dairy located on 24 acres she grew up on in southern Oregon. Her farm is well known for its artisan, aged raw milk cheeses; classes on small-dairy, goat husbandry, and cheesemaking at all levels; and its off-grid, sustainable life-style focus. She is the author of many books including Holistic Goat Care, Mastering Basic Cheesemaking, The Small-Scale Cheese Business, and often writes and photographs for Culture – The Word on Cheese magazine. Gianaclis and her husband Vern own and run Pholia, where they are raising their daughters Phoebe and Amelia. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/07/01/255-gianaclis-caldwell/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Thu, June 29, 2017
Stephanie Tourles on Natural Ways to Repel Insects
254: Stephanie Tourles on Natural Ways to Repel Insect Focusing on natural options to create your own bug repellents. Due to the increasing concern about tick and mosquito populations spreading, as well as the diseases they carry, we pushed this interview to the top of our calendar. Please share this interview with your friends in those areas that are high tick infestation areas, or those who just love the outdoors. In This Podcast: Years of studying skin care and natural ingredients has led Stephanie Tourles to put together several recipes for natural insect repellents. She shares some important information about using natural product recipes, as well as a recipe for a great smelling tick and mosquito repellent. Stephanie has practiced and taught healthy living for more than 25 years. She is a licensed holistic esthetician with a strong background in Western and Ayurvedic herbalism, has extensive training in the nutritional sciences, and is an avid organic gardener. Stephanie is also a certified aromatherapist, a nationally certified foot & hand reflexologist, and a professional member of the Alliance of International Aromatherapists. Currently residing in Orland, Maine, she is the author of twelve books the including Organic Body Care Recipes , Hands-On Healing Remedies , and Naturally Bug-Free all available through Storey Publishing. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/29/254-stephanie-tourles/ for more information and links on this podcast, and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 27, 2017
Tony Kasowski on Farm Trippin
253: Tony Kasowski on Farm Trippin Traveling across several states and profiling examples of amazing farms. In This Podcast: Chatting with friends on his social media about their farming activities and garden projects got to the point where Tony Kasowski decided he needed to just go see some of those farms and gardens for himself. We hear his plans for this summer, when he is going on a road trip to see farms , where he will learn new things and share some knowledge & skills along the way. The cool part is that he is going to share the adventure with the rest of his social media friends. Tony is Co-Founder and Principal Farmer at St Vincent de Paul Urban Farms in Phoenix, Arizona. The agricultural division to the charity provides food production, education, and revenue generation, and has produced over one hundred thousand pounds of fresh food to feed the working needy and homeless through five dining rooms in Arizona. The farm is also responsible for mitigating over one million pounds of food and landscape material through its composting initiatives. Tony is also the founder of GrowKale.com where he consults, educates, designs and builds ecological and chemical free edible spaces. His current project, Farm trippin is a cross country road trip showcasing ways to grow food mindfully, while featuring the individuals and their stories behind the farms. He will be sharing the journey through his website Farmtrippin.com and his informative Instagram @Tonygrowsfood. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/27/253-tony-kasowski/ for more information and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Bonus · Mon, June 26, 2017
Bonus Episode 1: Ask Jake and Greg (252.5)
Bonus Episode 1: Ask Jake and Greg. A Q&A session with two experts on Gardening and Fruit Trees. In This BONUS Podcast: Jake Mace the Vegan Athlete and Greg Peterson of The Urban Farm are both gardening educators offering classes, podcasts, and videos on a large variety of gardening topics. Every month they get together for a monthly gardening chat to discuss what is going on in their gardens and answer your questions.. This is the June 2017 Q&A episode with a variety of questions addressed from shade trees, mulching, fertilizing, soil amendments, watering, and much more. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/26/bonus-episode-1-jake-and-greg/ for more information and links on this bonus podcast, and to find our other great guests. Episode 252.5
Sat, June 24, 2017
Ed Vaccaro on Hydration for Outdoor Small Animals
252: Ed Vaccaro on Hydration for Outdoor Pets and Small Animals Creating a product for animals that also helps plants and then getting it to market. In this podcast: We learn about the motivation to create an ingenious watering device for animals which directs discarded water into useful watering for plants. Ed Vaccaro shares more than just how his unique product works, he shares how he was able to get it onto store shelves and make a new business from a great idea. Ed grew up in northern California during the 70’s. His parents were in the flower business and his uncle was in the plant business. His relationship with his family and their businesses influenced the direction he took in life. A keen animal lover from early childhood, he joined the famed animal husbandry organization 4-H. After working in the solar industry for a while in the 80’s, he eventually went back to his roots and launched his own plant business. He quickly won accounts with two large grocery store chains and opened a store in the San Francisco Flower Market. These days Ed is the proprietor of HydroPet an automatic outdoor water bowl for pets – that periodically automatically refreshes itself while repurposing old water to nearby trees, shrubs and plants. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/24/ed-vaccaro/ for more information and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Thu, June 22, 2017
Shane Jordan on Food Waste
251: Shane Jordan on Food Waste. Making recipes from those leftover ingredients that might have been tossed. In this podcast: Creating a delicious meal using cooking scraps that would have been tossed, or maybe even looked over when shopping, is something that Shane Jordan wants everyone to try. He explains this philosophy for us here and invites you to try things like his Banana Skin Curry. Shane is a vegetarian chef and author based in Bristol, England. He works as a part time chef at Arc Cafe while teaching cooking at Universities and Festivals. He has been described as a "pioneer" for this imaginative use of food waste in restaurants and has written a cookbook detailing his alternative approach, called Food Waste Philosophy . In it he explains his concepts and shares many of his popular recipes. Shane has a passion for education, working in schools and spreading the green message – he is dedicated to showing that dealing with environmental issues can be a fun and interesting experience. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/22/shane-jordan/ for more information and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 20, 2017
Greg Peterson - 250th Episode Special
Greg Peterson - 250th Episode Special Interviewing Farmer Greg himself - about his life mission and creating The Urban Farm. In this podcast: This is the 250th episode of The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson and the tables are turned as our guest host Jake Mace gets to take control of the interview. Greg tells us his story, how writing a mission statement for a college assignment affected him, and why naming your farm is so important to him. And, he shares more about the origin of The Urban Farm Nursery and of Urban Farm U. Greg has lived at the Urban Farm for almost 30 years. His 1/3-acre yard features an entirely edible landscape, including over 70 fruit trees, rainwater and grey-water harvesting, solar applications, and extensive use of reclaimed and recycled building materials. Greg is a longtime permaculture advocate, flunked out of university in 1981 because he was bored, then went back twenty years later to get a bachelor’s degree and a Masters in Urban and Environmental Planning in 2006 and is a lifelong continual learner. On his days off he hangs out in his garden with his sweetheart Heidi and their chickens, creating new projects and catching some rays. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/20/greg-peterson-250th-podcast/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 17, 2017
Andrew Gunther on Humanely Raised Farm Animals
249: Andrew Gunther on Humanely Raised Farm Animals Labeling for meats to show how the animal was cared for and prepped for consumption. In this podcast: We learn about how the way an animal is raised can make a difference, not only in the taste, but in how healthy the meat is for us as consumers. Andrew Gunther explains why it is important to know this distinction and how to recognize it when making your buying selection at the store. Andrew is the Executive Director of A Greener World where he spearheaded the growth and development of the “Animal Welfare Approved”, or AWA, certification into what Consumer Reports calls the only “highly meaningful” food label for farm animal welfare, outdoor access, and sustainability. Andrew works to increase the availability of Certified AWA meat, dairy and eggs in traditional retail settings. He is currently a member of the U.S. delegation for the International Standardization Organization who is responsible for development of standards related to Animal Welfare. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/17/andrew-gunther/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests
Thu, June 15, 2017
Ellen Zachos on Wildcrafted Cocktails
248: Ellen Zachos on Wildcrafted Cocktails Blending naturally wild flavors to delight the palate and stir up the conversations. In this podcast: The love of plants was a strong enough call to help Ellen Zachos leave the Broadway stage, and her love of food and flavors combined with plants led her naturally to wild foraging, and then to experiment with mixing cocktails. Ellen has done a lot of research and testing to bring her foraging skills to the cocktail bar and here we learn a lot about mixing the right flavors to get a perfect drink. You might just rethink your next hike to the mountain or the farmers market after this podcast. A former Broadway performer (she was once in the cast of Les Miz), Ellen is a Harvard graduate and has earned multiple certificates in horticulture and ethnobotany from the New York Botanic Garden. In her spare time Ellen is a garden writer, photographer, and lectures at flower shows & for garden clubs around the world. She is the author of seven books including The Wildcrafted Cocktail and Backyard Foraging: 65 Familiar Plants You Didn’t Know You Could Eat both by Storey Publishing. Ellen was named a Great American Gardener by the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, has served two terms as a National Board Member for the Garden Writers Association and works with RemyUSA, teaching foraged mixology workshops across the US. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/15/ellen-zachos/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Tue, June 13, 2017
Kim Lehman on Beekeeping for Kids
247: Kim Lehman on Beekeeping for Kids Helping young beekeepers learn and grow comfortable with the hives. In this podcast: The next generation of beekeepers can be intrigued and inspired by fun activities dreamt up by Kim Lehman through her many years of honey bee education. She shares how she got started with bees and some of the interesting facts about bees and beekeeping. There are some sweet points in the podcast! Kim has worked over 25 years as a honey bee educator, teacher, professional storyteller, musician, and author. She has presented hundreds of programs and workshops at schools, libraries, museums, nature centers, and festivals. Through her work, children have gained a greater understanding of the honey bee, nature’s tiny treasure. As part of her children’s column for Bee Culture Magazine, Kim began the Bee Buddies Club which now has members in every state. Years ago, she founded the American Beekeeping Federation Kids and Bees Program and directed this educational service about honey bees for the public at their annual conferences in 15 states. Her book Beekeeper’s Lab: 52 Family-Friendly Activities and Experiments Exploring the Life of the Hive was published this year. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/13/kim-lehman/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 10, 2017
Johannes Paul on Modern Urban Chicken Coops
246: Johannes Paul on Modern Urban Chicken Coops Engineering a new design for housing poultry and encouraging people to raise backyard chickens. In this podcast: When Johannes Paul and his engineering design classmates were challenged to come up with an idea for a class project, little did they know that design could be received so well. A decade later they have a line of products for outdoor pets and small animals, and their design called out as one of the best British designs in the last 100 years. Johannes met his three friends James, Simon, and Will, at the Royal College of Art in London where they were studying Industrial Design. In their final year, they designed a revolutionary new chicken house which made it simpler to keep chickens in gardens. It looked rather like an igloo and in a moment of punning genius, they named it the Egglu. They exhibited the first prototype at the graduation show and over 500 visitors expressed an interest to keep chickens in their gardens. At that moment, they decided to move to Oxford and start a company to develop the Eglu. They created the company Omlet as a way for people to get closer to their food and improve their quality of life through sustainable intelligent design. Over the next 8 months they made over 20 prototypes which they tested with volunteers, each time improving the design. They launched the first Eglu in time for Easter 2004. Since then, the Eglu has been exhibited all over the world and was included in the Victorian & Albert Museum first major exhibition celebrating post war design to coincide with the 2012 Olympics alongside the Concorde and the E-Type Jaguar. Omlet has grown from the original four founders to over 40 committed to encouraging people to discover the joy of collecting their own fresh eggs! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/10/johannes-paul/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find some of our other GREAT guests.
Thu, June 08, 2017
Willow Aldridge on Raising Quail
245: Willow Aldridge on Raising Quail Exploring the benefits of raising quail for meat and eggs In this podcast: After meeting this young woman at a local Urban Farm tour and finding out how, and why, she started her own quail meat and eggs business, we could not act fast enough to get Willow Aldridge’s interview scheduled. She shares with us how she convinced her parents to let her start the business, and the challenges and the wonders of raising quail and selling the meat and eggs. Cricket is natural homesteader. Growing up in rural Idaho with a garden, a horse, and lots of home canned food, she brings those sensibilities to her suburban home in Phoenix. Add a little dose of cottage garden flavor and permaculture tendencies, and you’ll see why her blog, GardenVariety.Life is a reflection of everything she does. Cricket enjoys sharing skills that promote a meaningful and practical connection to our gardens and environment. Because so many residents of the metro Phoenix area are transplants like her, she finds that the area’s unique desert climate is often misunderstood and underestimated in terms of what is possible. That’s where the fun begins. Arizona is a burgeoning permaculture haven with homesteading written all over it, and there is nothing Cricket enjoys more than encouraging others to jump in and give it a try. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/08/willow-aldridge/ for show notes
Thu, June 08, 2017
Raymond Jess on Wicking Beds
244: Raymond Jess on Wicking Beds Watering up in the garden, and using physics to maintain proper soil hydration. In This Podcast: We hear from Ray Jess, a man who loves to learn, and is enthusiastically helping others get excited about wicking bed gardens. When he first saw a wicking bed at a fellow Master Gardener’s yard, he was intrigued and that started his deep research. From there he tinkered with an idea about how he could build one in his own yard, with a little improvement, of course. Now he has written an article for the Urban Farm and we hear the benefits of capillary action in his own words. After retiring from two careers, the Air Force and teaching, he pursued his love of food by graduating from the Phoenix Art Institute with a certificate in Culinary Arts. The highlight of his culinary experience was working as a chef for the 2007 Super Bowl at the University of Phoenix Stadium. Natural extensions for this self-proclaimed foodie were the completion of his Master Gardner training and his Certificate in Permaculture Design. A love of fresh foods and herbs kept him gardening for the last two decades. During a volunteer component of his Master Gardner training, Ray discovered wicking garden beds. A man of curiosity and a seeker of ways to do things more efficiently, he embarked on a research project leading him to the Father of Wicking Beds, Collin Austin. As a result of Ray’s research, his backyard garden has evolved from rows of crops in a plot of ground and raised beds, to grow-buckets and wicking beds. He is currently keeping his eyes open for the next great idea to perfect his garden, so he can keep giving his family, friends, and neighbors fresh produce. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/05/raymond-jess/ for more information on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Sat, June 03, 2017
John Rowden on Planting for Birds
243: John Rowden on Planting for Birds Determining which plants are best for specifically local ecosystems. In this podcast: We learn a little bit more about a national resource for nature lovers from John Rowden from the National Audubon Society as he talks about their new database for native plants. It makes a lot of sense that native plants would be appreciated by birds, and John shares how the interaction between plants and birds can be enhanced and appreciated by anyone willing to grow a plant in their area. John joined Audubon in 2009 when he was hired by the New York City chapter to direct citizen science and outreach throughout the city. In 2013, he transitioned to the National Audubon Society, first working on the Toyota TogetherGreen program before becoming Audubon’s Director of Community Conservation in 2016. John’s work at Audubon has focused on engaging new audiences in the organization’s conservation efforts, personally and through Audubon’s extensive national network. He holds a PhD in Zoology from Duke University. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/03/john-rowden/ for more information and links on this podcast.
Thu, June 01, 2017
Laura Kelly on Healthy Bones through Whole Foods
242: Laura Kelly on Healthy Bones through Whole Foods. Combating nutritional deficiencies and fighting off diseases through whole and natural foods. In this podcast: Sometimes it is fighting for the health of a family member that prompts an understanding which in turn helps many other people. In this conversation, Dr. Laura Kelly explains why she turned her attention to bone health, and what she found when looking for underlying causes to bone density loss. Then as she was not content to just helping others understand bone health, she determined to help people take action to help themselves. Dr. Laura practices medicine based on principles of nature, using nutrients and natural medicines. This approach to primary care combines functional medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, and tools of Western medicine to build a complete picture of the body – and a plan for how to guide and assist in its return to health. She consults with patients in multiple countries and is based in Topanga, California. Her first book is The Healthy Bones Nutrition Plan and Cookbook , Published by Chelsea Green which she co-wrote with her mother Helen Bryman Kelly. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/06/01/laura-kelly/ for show notes
Tue, May 30, 2017
Jared Gulliford on Millennial Farmers
241: Jared Gulliford on Millennial Farmers Starting a farm from scratch as an urban-raised millennial. IN THIS PODCAST: Being young and not having any land or farming experience did not stop Jared Gulliford from developing a plan and a dream to have his own farm. He shares his story about how he came to the decision to pursue a living as a farmer, where he got his training and experience, and how he transformed his family’s properties into a farm. Then once he got there he had to change the soil and he did this using elbow grease and old-fashioned techniques so that he would not have to use chemicals because he cares about what he sells. At the age of 25, Jared moved back to the land he grew up on to start a farm. Gardening since he was a teen, he became interested in agriculture while at University. Now, he is striving to produce food to share with, and nourish, his community while teaching others along the way. Taking advantage of an opportunity when his sister and her family bought the land next to their parents, he’s attempting the multi-generational farm dream in the middle of suburbia. On degraded soil and with ten thousand dollars, he started from the ground up. Although Jared is the only farmer at this point, he hopes friends and family will join as the project becomes further established. Despite start-up expenses, infrastructure needs, vehicle repairs, and everything else; he survived, and the inaugural year of Earth First Farm was a success. He has a ½ acre market garden, and homestead quantities of livestock then he plans for the farm to evolve from a working venture to a place for education and reconnecting with nature. Jared is also the curator at Dr. Jim Duke's Green Farmacy Garden in Fulton, Maryland; a sanctuary with over 300 species of native and non-native medicinal herbs. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/30/jared-gulliford/ for more information and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Sat, May 27, 2017
Eve Sibley on Recording the Farm's Activities
240: Eve Sibley on Recording the Farm's Activities Creating a history of the garden or farm to document what works best. Eve is a creative who studied painting in school, but it was her passion for activism which led her into gardening and farming. In 2006, when she turned 30, she left New York City and moved to a farm to clarify where she wanted to focus her activism energy. She became interested in gardening as a solution to many of the world’s ails and immediately learned square foot gardening. Eve has spent years setting up innovative gardens, mostly vertical, for different organizations in her travels through the USA, Costa Rica, and India. She came to believe internet technology could be utilized to help more people with their growing projects, and during her travels used her computer skills on attempts to find ways to connect and help gardeners around the world. Through her gardening work, and by volunteering on various farms, Eve recently found a need for improved garden record-keeping and she set out to build an app for that. The FarmFollow app is available in app stores and this is the first real season it is in use. In this podcast: We meet Eve Sibley who melded her determination to make a difference with a love of gardening to make an app that helps gardeners and farmers keep better records of their growing efforts. Eve explains how she got the idea to make an app for growers, and how to make use of the free online tool to keep track of the daily tasks that can make a difference in each year’s crop results. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/27/eve-sibley/ for show notes
Thu, May 25, 2017
Pam Freeman on Chicken Raising Realities
239: Pam Freeman on Chicken Raising Realities Discussing the next level of raising your own chicks In this podcast: Chicken expert and poultry advice columnist Pam Freeman shares some great tips on getting started with raising your own chicks. Her own adventure started with a little gift from the Easter Bunny, and now she helps others get comfortable with hens starting with the egg and raising chicks. Pam is the editor of both the Backyard Poultry and Countryside magazines. After she received four Silver Laced Wyandotte chicks from the Easter Bunny, her flock quickly grew and Pam launched PamsBackyardChickens.com . In the years that followed, she hand-raised chicks, nursed chicks and chickens back to health, and experienced the entire lifecycle many times over. Pam is also the resident "Ask the Expert" columnist for Backyard Poultry magazine and continues to write regular posts about chicken keeping and homesteading. In her spare time, Pam loves to hunt for antiques, bolster her life list as a life-long bird watcher, plus tend her herb and perennial gardens that are set up to encourage local wildlife such as bees, butterflies and birds. Her latest book is Backyard Chickens: Beyond the Basics. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/25/pam-freeman/ for more information and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 23, 2017
Mimi Arnold on Farm-to-Table, Resort Hotel Style
238: Mimi Arnold on Farm-to-Table, Resort Hotel Style Building food and garden resources for an ocean-front, secluded ranch hotel. In this podcast: We hear from Mimi Arnold, the gardener who is helping initiate a farm-to-table program at one of California’s beautiful coastal hotels. She explains how she has been working with the owners and the chef to help design and provide the resource gardens on the property. She is dedicated to preserving the environment and loves helping the Inn and its guests connect with nature as much as she can! Mimi is a visual artist and garden designer. After receiving her bachelors in Fine Art at UCLA's School of Art and Architecture, her ongoing interest in botanicals and green spaces fully surfaced; thus, she merged her artistic background with her love in all that is green and headed into the garden design industry. For over two years, Mimi worked for two specialty gardening companies in San Francisco, and contributed to projects for Google and Restoration Hardware. Currently, she is located on California's Mendocino coast where she works as the head ornamental & edible gardener for the Inn at Newport Ranch , as well as the ranch’s florist. Here, she is involved with developing a farm-to-table food service for the inn, botanical styling throughout the interior, and providing weekly fresh florals-whether grown on site or foraged from the 2,700 acres of redwood forest. Food, flowers, and foliage, - the source matters; she’s doing her best to keep things local and maintain a mindful and sustainable practice. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/23/mimi-arnold/ for more information
Sat, May 20, 2017
Scottie Jones on Farm Stays
237: Scottie Jones on Farm Stays Experiencing farm life at the source, a few days at a time In this podcast: Moving to a farm gave Scottie Jones and her husband a new chapter in her life. Yet that story changed completely when she decided to open her farm to guests and realized there was no association or group available to help organize farms as a vacation resource. She tells us about how she decided to fix this and how she made FarmStayUS happen. Scottie is a woman of many talents. She has an MA in Medieval Archaeology Plus an MBA. She worked at Arizona State University for 11 years, was the Arizona franchisee for The Body Shop, and later Director of Retail and Host Services at The Phoenix Zoo. Currently she is a sheep farmer at Leaping Lamb Farm in Oregon, a farm stay host, and the founder of FarmStay U.S. - a national travel site for farm and ranch vacations. Building on the success of her own farm stay, she has made it her mission, via FarmStayUS.com, to raise awareness of the 1000+ working farms and ranches in the U.S. that offer overnight accommodations. For travelers, it's about experiencing farm life at the source, not just at the farmer’s market. Her feeling: it’s all about real food, real farmers, and living the lifestyle that built this nation - if only for a weekend. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/20/scottie-jones/ for more information on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Thu, May 18, 2017
Roza Ferdowsmakan on Sourcing Food in the Digital Age
236: Roza Ferdowsmakan on Sourcing Food in the Digital Age. Helping foodies find chefs, and chefs find local farms, all through their phones. In this podcast: We are excited to share this conversation with Roza Ferdowsmakan, someone who cares about building up the local food economy as much as we do. Roza decided she could make a difference in her community by connecting foodies, culinary talents, and local farms through a specially design app. It is with her new app that she hopes to give people culinary awakenings like the one she had as a young teenager. Roza wants to change the way people connect with food, with their communities, and with the earth. As a tech company founder, she has created a community-driven, farm-to-table mobile app called bites. , set to be released in beta to the metro-Phoenix community in July. bites . is a marketplace app for foodies of all socio-economic levels to connect with and reserve personal chef services offered by homemaker cooks, culinary students, and professional personal chefs. These participating chefs are encouraged to source ingredients from local farms. These farms, whether they identify themselves as urban, micro, organic, co-op, family-owned, or simply small farms are encouraged to participate and gain visibility by visiting the bites. website and creating a farm profile prior to the July 1st beta release date so that their profiles will be up and running when the app goes live. Roza also just started a Phoenix area local meetup called "grassroots", intended to engage foodies, local culinary talent, local farms, and sustainability supporters in community events centered around sustainability and education, all part of the ethos behind the bites movement. Beyond "grassroots", she is working to co-organize and resurrect TEDx Phoenix for the local community. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/18/roza-ferdowsmakan/ for more information on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 16, 2017
Colin Walker on Keys to Growing Nutrient-Rich Food
235: Colin Walker on Keys to Growing Nutrient-rich Food Connecting important ecology-centered concepts for producing nutrient dense food. IN THIS PODCAST: Previous guest Colin Walker goes further into ecology-centered concepts and describes the key points he has developed to focus on growing better foods. He has taken years of experience, research, and study and compiled it into six key focal points that will help any gardener or farmer produce healthier, more nutrient rich foods. Colin grew up in a rural community near Auckland, New Zealand, and learned the basics of growing by helping his grandfather maintain a small flower market garden. Initially, he went to college to study economics, however after some course changes, he turned to interests a little closer to his roots. He got involved in and has had leadership roles in several areas of natural agriculture including establishing the Permaculture Institute of New Zealand, taking on advisory and advocacy roles for seed preservation with independent & government organizations, and even served as a national coordinator of a National Organic Advisory Programme. Colin’s concentrations have been on permaculture, ecology centered design, seed preservation, conservation of traditional/heirloom food plants, garden education and most recently investigating (from an ecology perspective) the essential elements needed to guarantee that the food we grow is actually nutrient-rich. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/16/colin-walker-nutrient-rich/ for more information and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, May 13, 2017
Ruth and Grace Pepler on Agritourism
234: Ruth & Grace Pepler on Agritourism Experiencing life on the farm as a vacation destination IN THIS PODCAST: We meet two very special ladies in the mother-daughter team with Ruth and Grace Pepler who are helping us understand the concepts of Agritourism and Guest Farms. Ruth is inspiring with her story of transforming their small homestead into a very active community building resource and agriculture education resource in the guise of something akin to a bed and breakfast vacation spot. Her daughter Grace is a delight as she shares her knowledge and passion of teaching kids of all backgrounds the joys of farm life Ruth has been a registered nurse, private chef, and caterer, and has taught cooking classes, managed a farm, and homeschooled her daughter. She and her husband Thomas started their homestead near the Buffalo National River in Arkansas ten years ago. Shortly after moving there, they bought the adjoining property and opened Dogwood Hills Bed & Breakfast; Which they call a “guest farm” offering their guests a chance to experience life on the farm in a relaxing atmosphere. At sixteen, and having grown up on the homestead, her daughter Grace has taken a lead role in the daily functioning, guest relations, and marketing of Dogwood Hills Guest Farm. She is a wonderful agri-tourism ambassador speaking about Dogwood Hills and how it functions, with everyone from the local & county 4H, county chambers, multiple tourism conferences and she even did a personal tour for the Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture. Since opening they’ve added many more cows, goats and chickens, a fodder room of hydroponically grown barley, a “high tunnel” hoop house, a visitor friendly milking room, and they are currently adding a new certified kitchen. With a complete farm to table operation, Dogwood Hills Guest Farm helps people from all over the world experience life on a family-owned dairy farm. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/13/ruth-and-grace-pepler/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Thu, May 11, 2017
Colin Walker on Gardening with Ecology at its Heart
233: Colin Walker on Gardening with Ecology at its Heart Focusing on a larger picture to understand how to effectively grow a good garden. In this podcast: Part one of two with Colin Walker, a long-time gardener and educator from New Zealand, who helps explain a gardening concept that brings the world into focus while looking at the garden bed. The decades of experience and know-how are evident in this conversation about how an ecology-centered viewpoint is so important to successful gardening. Colin grew up in a rural community near Auckland, New Zealand, learning the basics of growing by helping his grandfather maintain a small flower market garden. Much later, he helped to establish the Permaculture Institute of New Zealand. In the 1980s and 90s, he spent time in the US, Australia, Ireland, and England. Returning home, he learned about the principles of ecology-centered design from Dennis Scott, an innovative designer, landscape architect, and resource management consultant Colin’s focus then turned to the conservation of traditional/heirloom food plants in New Zealand. He spent 16 years supporting local and national seed preservation initiatives by practical "growing out" hundreds of seed lines, managing research projects, running internship programmes, and taking on advisory and advocacy roles for this issue with independent & government organizations. In 2010, he returned to Northland to create a long-term home for him, his wife, and five sons. With six years of research and experimentation completed, investigating from an ecology perspective the essential elements needed (and how to practically work with them!) to guarantee that the food we grow is actually nutrient-rich, Colin’s ready to share results! Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/11/colin-walker-ecology/ for more information and links on this podcast and to find our other great guests.
Tue, May 09, 2017
John Vespasian on Rational, Self-Reliant Living.
232: John Vespasian on Rational, Self-Reliant Living. Learning lessons of resilience from history. IN THIS PODCAST: We chat with John Vespasian about learning from the mistakes found in some of history’s interesting stories. Not satisfied with what he could find in most books at the time, John decided he could do a better job and set out to write a book that he would like to read. From there he has focused on researching history, learning new languages, and figuring out how certain cultures succeeded and how cultures failed to determine what should be done today to get the best results. John is a personal development author of eight books about history and psychology, including his latest book "Thriving in difficult times: Twelve lessons from Ancient Greece to improve your life today. " As a lover of history, he is continuously studying and making notes about what he learns and has found many examples in the past that he feels can help people today. John has given many interviews around his research into what made the Greek society prosperous for 1,000 years, and what later became its downfall. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/09/john-vespasian/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, May 06, 2017
Trent Lindsey on Converting to Plant Based Nutrition
231: Trent Lindsey on Converting to Plant Based Nutrition Chronicling the transition to a vegan lifestyle and helping educate others. In This Podcast: We hear from Trent Lindsey about what it was like to convert to a plant based diet or lifestyle. Choosing to go vegan can seem intimidating, however Trent is helping others understand by sharing this journey and opening up about the transition and what he has experienced as he and his family made the change Trent is the founder of GoPlantBased.info : a website and blog on a mission to improve our world, one healthy person at a time. His blog educates his readers on the health benefits of a Plant Based Lifestyle. He is devoted to fighting against preventable dietary diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, stroke and diabetes, to name a few. He and his family have enjoyed the benefits of a Plant Based Lifestyle since January, 2016. Since then, he has immersed himself in the teachings of the Mastering Raw Food Nutrition program led by Drs. Rick and Karin Dina. He enjoys sharing his journey to health with others and has a passion for educating omnivores, vegetarians and vegans alike on the basics of nutrition. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/06/trent-lindsey/ for more information and links.
Thu, May 04, 2017
Katie Hess on Blooming into Your Full Potential
230: Katie Hess on Blooming into Your Full Potential Connecting with nature to empower the natural self. In this Podcast: We are learning about a natural-medicine aspect of plant essences through this conversation with flower alchemist Katie Hess. This is a new way for us of connecting with nature, and leads us to understanding more about why we feel at home when we are in our gardens. Katie explains how flowers have such a significant effect on living beings and why working with nature’s gifts can improve our lives profoundly. Katie is a flower alchemist and the founder of LOTUSWEI, one of the world’s leading floral apothecaries. After 15 years of independent research of flower and plant-based healing, her flower-powered community is thriving in over 15 countries. Her transformative elixirs having been featured in O, The Oprah Magazine, The New York Times and The LA Times among others. A lifelong spiritual seeker, Katie has studied meditation and mindful-awareness techniques with several Tibetan Buddhist masters, including the Dalai Lama and the Kamapa, Tibet’s next generation leader. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/04/katie-hess/ for more information, photos and links
Tue, May 02, 2017
Barbara Pleasant on Gardening to fill your Pantry
229: Barbara Pleasant on Gardening to fill your Pantry Taking home-grown foods into food storage. In this podcast: We meet Barbara Pleasant who helps expand our ideas for food storage beyond the simple basics. She also has tips for the new gardener and the ‘old hands’ that might give you some impetus to move a little dirt. Barbara is an Award-winning writer having been covering organic gardening and self-sufficient living for more than 30 years. As contributing editor to Mother Earth News, her work has garnered multiple awards from the Garden Writers Association and the American Nursery and Landscape Association. She has written books on topics ranging from compost to weeds, including Homegrown Pantry published by Storey Publishing, Starter Vegetable Gardens, The Complete Compost Gardening Guide, and The Complete Houseplant Survival Manual. Her columns and articles appear regularly in Mother Earth Living magazine, at GrowVeg.com and on other gardening websites . Barbara lives in Virginia, where she grows vegetables, herbs and fruits along with a few chickens, who all have names. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/05/02/barbara-pleasant/ for more information and great links.
Sat, April 29, 2017
Sheri McLane on Soil and Plant Testing
228: Sheri McLane on Soil and Plant Testing. Improving plant yields through expert analysis of growing mediums. In this podcast: Soil scientist Sheri explains how she found her calling in an agronomy and is driven to help farmers and gardeners with their soil questions. There is a great deal of science in determining the chemical make-up of soil samples and figuring out what is needed for different crops, and she knows how to help explain it for the rest of us. Sheri also helps by sharing a few tips for some basic soil remediation in this interview. Sheri was interested in science and how things worked from a young age. She was fascinated with paleontology in middle school and even participated in archeology digs with the local museum. In high school, she loved geology and marine biology which led her to the University of San Diego where she obtained a major in marine science with an emphasis in biology and a minor in environmental science. Upon graduation, she worked for environmental labs learning new analytical techniques and her thirst for science knowledge grew. She was planning on pursuing a career in marine mammal rescue and habitation, however, her undergrad studies caused a change in her career path. She decided to learn more about soil and plant science, a topic of interest from her undergrad course work. She went to work for IAS Laboratories and studied under Dr. Paul Eberhart for many years. Sheri has been working in the agriculture field for the last fifteen years and is now the president of IAS Laboratories. Her focus on soil and plants has held firm and she’s earned her masters in agronomy through Iowa State and is in the process obtaining her soil scientist and CPAg certification. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/29/sheri-mclane/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Thu, April 27, 2017
Jan Dohner on Predators on the Urban Farm
227: Jan Dohner on Predators on the Urban Farm Adjusting to a new normal with predators near our farms. In This Podcast: We learn quite a bit from Jan who has spent four decades researching livestock guardians and the predators they guard against. She helps explain why there has been a resurgence in these wild predators and what steps can be taken to guard our precious farm resources for both urban and rural farms. Jan is a researcher and writer concerned with historic livestock breeds and husbandry, as well as issues surrounding predator control and the use of livestock guardians. She makes presentations on these topics at various conferences, including Mother Earth Fairs and The Common Fair in Maine. She has written several books and maintains a blog you can find on her website. She is also a longtime member of the American Livestock Conservancy. Jan lives on her family farm in Michigan and has more than 35 years of hands-on experience with the use of livestock guard dogs for predator control. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/27/jan-dohner/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Tue, April 25, 2017
Kevin Van Eekeren on Store Bought vs Home Raised Eggs
226: Kevin Van Eekeren on Store Bought vs Home Raised Eggs Recognizing eggs from lovingly raised hens and factory raised, regardless of labeling. In this podcast: We get to know the personal motivations behind Kevin Van Eekeren, a tactical advisor and egg farmer with a focus on clear visioning 10 years into the future. He tells us how his experience developing tactical training has helped him with his farm. He also explains about some of the labeling misperceptions of eggs, and why there is such a marked difference in eggs depending on how the hens are raised. Kevin is not your typical farmer. He was a SWAT team logistics officer; started Fulcrum Tactical- a charity that specialized in training SWAT teams nationwide; and couple years ago he started Fulcrum Investing- a venture capital fund investing in startups. He most recently started hosting a podcast called State of Logic which has a planned release date of mid 2017 with a duel focus on both the startup world and topics that affect our world, and not just in business. In the middle of it all Kevin started Fulcrum Farms with just 28 chickens raised for personal use which gave him 20 eggs a day. So, of course he started giving eggs away and that is when restaurants and families started offering to buy them. To meet demand, he grew the operation to what it is today, 30 pigs, a few hundred quail, 100 ducks, 100 chickens, a few cows and two goats named Thelma and Louise. They quickly learned the best practice was to follow Joel Salatin's example and use the nitrogen cycle for their own benefit. Now they keep most of their animals rotating constantly to give them new pasture to graze and allow the land they just grazed to rest. Their biggest seller are his eggs and the reason is clear, there is a visual and taste difference between their eggs and those bought at the store. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/25/kevin-van-eekeren/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, April 22, 2017
Edward Griffin on Indoor Smart Gardens
225: Edward Griffin on Indoor Smart Gardens Solving some space and time issues around growing fresh food. In This Podcast: We meet Edward, a millennial concerned about sustainability and food equity issues, who also wanted to have an active lifestyle and still grow his own food. Not having a backyard did not stop Edward as he took agricultural and sustainability concepts he learned in college and created his own solution. Edward graduated from Arizona State University in 2013 double majoring in Sustainability and Political Science. During this time, he studied some of the hardest questions relating to sustainability at a social, economic, and environmental level. The area of global sustainability that always spoke to him was the complex issue of agriculture, specifically food deserts because it was something he dealt with his entire life. Faced with environmental and time constraints he began experimenting and developing new ways to integrate technology and grow food inside his apartment. This quickly became a new-found passion of his, and with this new obsession he founded the company Lyfbox, which has just released the first fully intelligent indoor smart garden to automatically grow fresh organic food inside your home year-round and is controlled using the Lyfbox app on your phone. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/22/edward-griffin/ for more information and links to our other guests!
Thu, April 20, 2017
Lisa Steele on Gardening with Chickens
224: Lisa Steele on Gardening with Chickens Incorporating chickens into the gardening process as willing workers. In This Podcast: We connect again with Lisa Steele to get some great suggestions on how to bring the chickens out of the coop and into the garden. She explains how these feathered friends can do even more to earn their keep and become true gardening partners. Lisa is a 5th-generation chicken keeper, nationally recognized author and the creative mind behind the Better Homes & Gardens award-winning blog - Fresh Eggs Daily. Lisa inspires both the newcomer as well as the seasoned chicken keeper and engages almost a million fans worldwide on her Facebook page of the same name with her easy, fun, and accessible approach to raising backyard flocks naturally. The author of three top-selling books, Lisa’s writing can also been found in such publications as Chickens, Backyard Poultry, the Farmers Almanac, and Hobby Farm as well as at HGTVGardens.com. She’s been featured in American Farmhouse Style, Down East and Cottage Journal magazines plus has appeared on numerous national radio and television programs and most recently is hosting her own 30-minute “chicken lifestyle” television show called Fresh Eggs Daily with Lisa Steele which airs on the local CW affiliate in Portland Maine. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/20/lisa-steele-2/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Tue, April 18, 2017
Paten Hughes on Heirloom: Tomatoes and a Web Series.
223: Paten Hughes on Heirloom: Tomatoes and a Web Series. Growing tomatoes when life gives you lemons In This Podcast: We get the inside scoop from actress Paten Hughes on the inspiration for her new web-series which is based on her transition of actor-to-tomato-farmer. She did not just plant a few, she planted more tomato plants than most people can even conceive and now she has several restaurants that order from her. Paten is the star and co-creator of the hit digital series HEIRLOOM on Vimeo, written by Bekah Brunstetter (NBC's This Is Us) and co-starring Margaret Colin, Tom Wopat, Pascale Armand, Ryan Cooper, and John Lavelle. This semi-autobiographical web series follows the character Emily who gives up her struggling acting career in New York to move to California and farm heirloom tomatoes on a property she inherits. Paten, who really moved to Northern California and become a first-time farmer, sells her juicy organic tomatoes to several local restaurants in Sonoma. She is very committed to preserving nature, supporting local and organic farming. The show’s flavor carries her pro-environment, sustainability, and organic preferences. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/18/paten-hughes/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, April 15, 2017
Heather Szymura on Hydroponic Container Farming
222: Heather Szymura on Hydroponic Container Farming. Growing limited-season crops year-round regardless of climate extremes. In This Podcast: We meet Heather who decided to change directions away from a professional one towards one more in tune with nature and healing and to her surprise ended up becoming a farmer! She is selling lettuce and kale she is growing year-round in the suburbs near Phoenix and tells Greg how she is doing that in a shipping container in her backyard. After 15 years in the corporate business world and a degree in Global Business Marketing, Heather decided it was time for a shift. She resigned from her position at UPS, went back to school to pursue a degree in Naturopathic Medicine and at the same time delved more into her hobby of urban farming. It was in here that she found her life’s passion unearthing the amazing benefits growing herbs and veggies. Her business, Twisted Infusions, became a reality in 2016 when the container farm arrived on their doorstep! They sell non-GMO, pesticide free, hydroponically grown lettuce, kale and herbs! Now, being a farmer and business owner is Heather’s full time job. She and Brian, her husband and best friend, live in Glendale, Arizona with their two children, Killian and Mary. Throw in two snakes, a pink tarantula, a bearded dragon, and a leopard gecko and that’s the Szymura family. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/15/heather-szymura/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to our other great guests.
Thu, April 13, 2017
Ocean Robbins on the Food Revolution Summit
221: Ocean Robbins on the Food Revolution Summit. Finding a path of health, hope, and possibility through better food choices. In This Podcast: This is a special podcast interview with food activist Ocean Robbins about his Food Revolution Summit happening April 29 to May 7. At 15, Ocean was a co-founder of the Creating Our Future environmental speaking tour, on which he and three other participants spoke in person to more than 30,000 students, presented for 2,000 people at the United Nations, and opened for the Jerry Garcia band in San Francisco. In 1990 at age 16, Ocean founded YES! , an organization he directed for the next 20 years with the goal of connecting, inspiring and mobilizing visionary young leaders worldwide. He has since spoken to hundreds of thousands of people, led hundreds of retreats, workshops and Jams for leaders in over 65 nations, written books, mentored (and learned from) changemakers, and been a creative partner and lead editor for several bestsellers. In 2012 Ocean founded the Food Revolution Network , which now has more than 350,000 members working for healthy, sustainable, humane and delicious food. He currently serves as adjunct professor in the Peace Studies department at Chapman University. Ocean has personally spoken and facilitated leadership gatherings in Jordan, Israel/Palestine, Singapore, Costa Rica, Russia, Finland, Canada, the Netherlands, India, Peru, and across the USA. All this and he is also an active and proud father of special needs twins , a lover of life, and a human being who is trying to live in a good way on this earth. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/13/ocean-robbins-2/ for show notes
Tue, April 11, 2017
Ben Raskin on Practical Advice for Community Gardens
220: Ben Raskin on Practical Advice for Community Gardens In This Podcast : For those envisioning a perfect community garden, Ben Raskin has put together a fabulous resource to guide, inspire, and empower the designers and leaders of future neighborhood plots. He tells Greg about the purpose he had for writing his latest book and some of the lessons he’s learned during his years of farming. Organizing a community garden from scratch with smart planning and long-term goals. Ben has been working in horticulture for more than 20 years and has been with the Soil Association in the United Kingdom, since 2006. His own experience includes; running a walled garden in Sussex which supplied a Michelin starred restaurant, and working for Garden Organic at their gardens in Kent. He also set up and ran the 10-acre horticultural production at Daylesford Organic Farm before moving to the Welsh College of Horticulture as commercial manager. Ben also works on a range of other projects and over the years these have included working as Horticultural Advisor and founder Board Member of The Community Farm near Bristol, and running a program of biochar trials with organic growers. He is currently managing a new agroforestry planting on Helen Browning’s farm near Swindon. He is also a board member of the Community Supported Agriculture Network UK and committee member for the Organic Growers Alliance. With all of this experience, he is also an author and has written The Community Gardening Handbook, and two family gardening books titled Grow , and Compost . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/11/ben-raskin/ for show notes
Sat, April 08, 2017
Jennifer Osuch on Fundamentals of Self Reliance.
219: Jennifer Osuch on Fundamentals of Self Reliance. Teaching back to basics food preparation and preserving skills. In this podcast: Jennifer tells about the importance of self-reliance skills and why they are becoming needed once again. She explains what led her to this place in her life where she teaches some of these old traditions that traditional homesteaders relied on daily. Jennifer is the author of the Preparedness Planner series, lead teacher at the online Self Reliant School (which is dedicated to teaching preparedness and self-reliance skills) , host of the weekly live Self Reliant Living Show (which I was a guest on in Nov 2016), and a homeschooling mom. She is dedicated to teaching back-to-basics food preparation and preserving skills that help people eat healthy, save money, live greener and be prepared for anything. Jennifer and her husband turned to the old-school basics when they found themselves in mountains of debt, two of their three boys suffering from asthma and allergies, and she, herself, struggling for years with her own weight management. She knows from experience that eating real food when you're watching every penny is not easy, and trying to put healthy food into storage is almost impossible. Jennifer, her husband and her three teenaged boys live in Texas. She is on a mission to save the knowledge and wisdom of our grandparents, and to help people apply it to their lives today. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/08/jennifer-osuch/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Thu, April 06, 2017
Nafsika Antypas on Living a Plant-Based Life
218: Nafsika Antypas on Living a Plant-Based Life. Understanding the reasons and options for choosing a vegan lifestyle. Nafsika is the Host and Creator of the world’s first plant based lifestyle TV series that focuses on a plant-based diet living. She has studied about olive oil and the Mediterranean diet in Greece through her father’s business, Pilaros Inc, a Mediterranean food importer, where she has been involved for over twenty years. She created the TV show, Plant-Based by Nafsika which aired nationally in 2016, to change the world through food. This has not only sparked the interest of viewers around the globe but has planted some seeds helping veganism become more “mainstream,” In 2015, she founded, The Struggling Vegan , which helps people transition to a plant-based/vegan lifestyle while strengthening the community in a public forum called, Veg Room. The organization offers daily menu plans, recipes, health tips and direct messaging to plant-based doctors and coaches. Nafsika spends her spare time with her family, which includes her two young boys. She and her husband both cook plant-based meals at home and she’ll educate just about anyone who would listen about why it’s healthier to switch to a plant-based diet and why veganism is not just a diet but a way of life. In this podcast: Greg talks to television host Nafsika Antypas about living a plant-based life and how she was inspired to start her own television show all about living a vegan lifestyle. She helps explain some of the core beliefs behind veganism as well as some of the basics of living a cruelty-free way of life. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/06/nafsika-antypas/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Tue, April 04, 2017
Sine Lindholm on an Urban Farming 'Growroom'
217: Sine Lindholm on an Urban Farming 'Growroom' Creating and sharing an open-sourced growing sphere to create poetic spaces. Sine is from Denmark and has a degree in architecture from Aarhus School of Architecture along with an emphasis on psychology. This shows in her projects where she is combining the two, with her main focus on the theoretical and abstract part of architecture. She grew up on an organic farm with milking cows, however she had never worked with agriculture or urban farming before, until she won an architecture competition together with architect and carpenter Mads-Ulrik Husum. They had designed an Urban Farming pavilion, which received great attention that led to the further development of the project. They teamed up with SPACE10, a future living-lab, where they developed and released an open source design of their pavilion. Together they started the company Husum & Lindholm, where for the moment they primarily focus on further development of combining architecture with gardening. On the basis of a spatial experimentation with the Urban Farming concept, they strive towards creating architecture where atmosphere and sensuousness - acts as the primary design factors. Their goal - to generate poetic spaces where a symbiotic relationship with vegetation arises. In This Podcast: Greg sought out this interview with Sine Lindholm after seeing an article about a gorgeous growing sphere design and so today she tells us about the inspiration behind the design. Sine also explains why they hope an open-sourced design will encourage others to improve on their model. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/04/sine-lindholm/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, April 01, 2017
Emiley Kight on Loving Natural Foods.
216: Emiley Kight on Loving Natural Foods. Making little changes towards more real foods and feeling better. Emiley has always loved food, and wanting to share this passion she dove into a Culinology® degree to explore a role as an R&D chef at SW Minnesota State University. That was until her mom became sick and she put her career on hold to act as her mom’s caretaker throughout her treatment for multiple myeloma cancer. To her surprise, the doctors provided little information on what to eat as a cancer patient, and so Emiley started doing her own research on the effects that food have on chronic disease. Through trial and error in the kitchen, she discovered how whole plants can be used to combat side effects of medication, create pleasure by surprising and challenging your taste buds, and help your body work as efficiently as possible. Completely changing her mother's eating habits (as well as her own) helped her develop a brand-new love affair with foods in their natural state. Now, she is devoted to sharing her story and this information with others to inspire anyone who eats, to fall in love with food again. In This Podcast: A chance meeting at the Farmers Market connected Greg to Emiley Kight, a Nutrition Consultant who tells about how she helps people to make little changes and enjoy natural foods. She explains about how her focus on food was taking her towards the kitchens of large food corporations until her mom’s illness and the realization that real food information and options were not included in recovery discussions and she decided to work on changing that. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/04/01/emiley-kight/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Thu, March 30, 2017
Suzanne Bontempo on Gardening without Pesticides
215: Suzanne Bontempo on Gardening without Pesticides Contemplating the best options for: If, when, and what type of insect control to use in the garden. Suzanne has worked in the horticultural industry for over 20 years in a variety of capacities; as a landscape contractor, a fine gardener leading garden maintenance teams, and in retail nursery management. Currently she is an environmental educator and IPM Advocate, where she mentors & educates people. She does this by providing IPM trainings at hardware stores & garden centers, providing educational programs for garden clubs, businesses & organizations, and presenting lectures for the public through government agencies. Her message is focused around less-toxic pest problem-solving in the home & garden, pesticide reduction, and how to garden sustainably. She helps people see their home or garden as its own ecosystem, and that the real solution to their problem usually doesn’t require a pesticide at all. She enjoys raising the awareness of beneficial insects and how biological control methods in the garden are easy, effective and fun! Suzanne was recognized for her excellence in her field winning the 2013 IPM Innovators Award and in 2016 received the San Francisco Green Business award. IN THIS PODCAST: Insects and pesticides are challenging topics for gardeners and even more so for organic gardeners, so of course Greg loved hearing from Suzanne about how to make the best choice for controlling pests in the garden. She breaks down the options in ways that make sense and loves to help others find the most beneficial way to manage their pest controls. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/30/suzanne-bontempo/ for show notes
Tue, March 28, 2017
Michael Miller on Poverty in the World.
214: Michael Miller on Poverty in the World. Examining the problems of poverty and solutions we need to reconsider. Michael is a Research Fellow at the Acton Institute and the Director and Producer of Poverty, Inc. Previously, Michael was the Director of Media and Director of Programs International at the Acton Institute and has appeared in various videos including Doing the Right Thing. Before coming to Acton, he taught philosophy and political science at Ave Maria College in Nicaragua and was the chair of the philosophy and theology department. Michael holds graduate degrees in philosophy, international development, and international business. He has lived and traveled in Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America and speaks extensively on themes of international development, entrepreneurship, political economy, and moral philosophy. He has been featured on FOX Business, CNBC, numerous radio shows, and published in The New York Post, The Washington Times, The LA Daily News, The Detroit News, and Real Clear Politics. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets a chance to talk about a serious social sustainability topic when he interviews Michael Matheson Miller, the Director-Producer of Poverty Inc. Michael has examined this issue at great lengths and tells why some of the things we think are helping are really fostering additional problems and why we should be asking if we are part of the problem. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/28/michael-matheson-miller/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, March 25, 2017
Nikki Golly on Nutrition and Wellness
213: Nikki Golly on Nutrition and Wellness. Recognizing the highly important nutrients that might be missing from our foods. In this Podcast: We get to meet Nikki Golly who’s focus on micro nutrients gives her a detailed perspective on the essentials of good nutrition. Her chat with Greg is a chance to break down the descriptions of some important food terms in today’s vocabulary and bring to light some very key details on the tiniest, but very powerful ingredients. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/25/nikki-golly/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests. Nikki is a micronutrient coach on a mission to help people experience the healthiest and happiest version of themselves. She graduated with highest honors with a degree in nutrition from Arizona State University. She worked for 8 years in a vitamin store in Phoenix where she gained her vast knowledge of supplements. Fuel Your Body is a coaching program, as well as, a series of products to help you reach your health goals. Everything you eat makes a difference in how you feel. Your immune system starts in your gut and the foods you eat affect your whole body, from the bottoms of your feet to the top of your head. Through her simple tips, recipes and how to videos, she empowers others to reach their goals.
Thu, March 23, 2017
Jenny Beasley on Community Gardening
212: Jenny Beasley on Community Gardening Building a community revitalization garden project from scratch. Jenny received her certification as a health coach at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City along with her Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from Northern Arizona University. She is currently the Director of Heart for the City Community Garden located in Glendale, AZ. She became involved with Heart for the City seven years ago, a non-profit that helps change lives of inner city at risk youth by walking life with them. She was asked to spearhead a 1/2-acre community revitalization project.... a community garden in which they educate Title 1 school children and their families on gardening and provide families ways of growing their own healthy foods. She decided to become a health coach to fulfill her passion of working with individuals to enhance their own well-being. In this podcast: Starting a community garden from scratch is no easy feat, and Greg talks with Jenny Beasley to hear about her work to bring a bare lot to life with a very thriving and highly appreciated garden resource in her community. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/23/jenny-beasley/ for show notes
Tue, March 21, 2017
Colin Austin on Wicking Beds and Healthy Food
211: Colin Austin on Wicking Beds and Healthy Food Examining wicking garden beds and bio-intensive vegetables. In this Podcast: We get to meet a gardening pioneer when Greg talks to Colin Austin who is known world-wide as the man who engineered a simple but highly popular garden bed called a wicking bed. Greg learns why Colin was motivated to create the beds and how the wicking process works. Then they go further to talk about why healthy food is so important to him and his family. Many years ago, at the birth of the computer revolution Colin learned to write code and set-up a company which grew to become Australia’s leading exporter of technical software. Then twenty years ago, Colin developed a growing system, which is known today as wicking bed technology and has gone feral worldwide. He runs a website WaterRight.com.au and a newsletter which are leading sources of information on wicking bed growing technology around the globe. Colin’s wife was very healthy and after moving to Australia from China she developed diabetes when she transitioned to a Western style diet. Consequently, he has spent many years studying the causes and remedies for diabetes. This complex disease involves many factors such as genetics and life style stress but the dominating one of course is diet. As a result of this research he is developing a new farming technology for growing in nutrient dense soil which is very biologically. He says living soils are based on recycling waste and are regenerative. He believes we have been destroying our soil and that we are now approaching peak soil. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/21/colin-austin/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, March 18, 2017
Don Titmus on a Synopsis of Permculture.
210: Don Titmus on a Synopsis of Permculture. Chat with an Permaculture Expert In this Chat with an Expert Podcast: Greg chats with Permaculture expert Don Titmus who has been teaching permaculture techniques for for more than a decade and working in landscape design for more than three decades. They talk about what Permaculture is, a synopsis of the key elements of Permaculture Design Course education and how it can change your perspectives on the world around you. Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then starting his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. He co-founded the Phoenix Permaculture Guild, started a Permaculture design company, redesigned his home site into a permaculture destination, and helped develop a thriving permaculture community in the Phoenix, Arizona area. He has presented in 5 cities, worked in several states, attended classes in 5 states, and pretty much lives and breathes permaculture. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/18/don-titmus-cwe/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests
Thu, March 16, 2017
209: Alastair Monk on The Future of Growing Food
209: Alastair Monk on The Future of Indoor Ag. Creating technology to help gardeners and farmers control their greenhouse watering systems. Alastair, or Ally, is the CEO and Co-founder of Motorleaf, which created the first wireless, automated, indoor growing system. A native from the UK, Ally has lived and worked in North America since 1999. He has a history of success within the technology sector, providing his 3 children, wife and Husky Dog (Shadow) a rich life filled with nature and opportunity. Ally loves to keep it simple and he says he wakes up each morning feeling hungry. Hungry for company growth, hungry for new product features, and hungry for new happy customers. In This Podcast: Greg talks to Ally and finds out what it is like to be a founding partner in a brand-new company that is focusing on making indoor gardening easier. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/16/alastair-monk/ for show notes and links.
Tue, March 14, 2017
208: Chat with an Expert - Catherine Crowley "The Herb Lady"
208: Chat with an Expert - Catherine Crowley "The Herb Lady" Catherine, The Herb Lady, is a self-taught, hands-in-the-dirt, Urban Farmer who experiments and researches constantly for new and interesting edibles as well as playing with old favorites. She was given the nickname "The Herb Lady" when vendors and customers at farmers markets would say "go ask the herb lady" for questions on herbs. It stuck. Catherine has taught many cooking and gardening classes at various locations private and public including the notable Boyce Thompson Arboretum which is an Arizona State Park, and Phoenix’s own Desert Botanical Garden. She has been a newspaper columnist for 4 years writing on growing and using edible herbs. Catherine has a blog online and is a regular vendor at her local Farmers Market. In this Podcast: Chatting with Herb expert Catherine Crowley about growing herbs and using them in cooking other beneficial ways. She and Greg explore many of the different unique and awesome aspects of a myriad of herbs that can be grown in the home gardens and urban farms, with a special emphasis on garlic. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/14/cwe-catherine-the-herb-lady-crowley/ for show notes and links.
Sat, March 11, 2017
207: Megan Cain on Garden Planning
207: Megan Cain on Garden Planning Joining a Legion of Gardening addicts through sensible preparation and design. Megan grew up an urban girl in a row home in Philadelphia. She never saw a vegetable growing in the ground until well into her 20’s. A few years ago, she quit her job and traveled to Africa for two months to volunteer with a fair trade organization . Now, she is a garden educator, writer and speaker. She has developed one of the first youth gardening programs in Madison, designed and installed gardens in many homeowners’ yards, managed a quarter-acre youth farm, worked on CSA farms, created a series of gardening class that often have waiting lists, and tends to a large home garden. She knows what works and what doesn’t…and loves to share it. Megan is setting out to create a legion of gardening addicts that successfully and passionately grow their own food. Through her gardening education business, The Creative Vegetable Gardener, she helps people get more from their gardens by first mastering the essentials and then indulging in the colorful details that make gardening not just a favorite pastime, but a lifestyle. In This Podcast: Acquiring a love of gardening transformed Megan into a fully focused farmer and she tells Greg how she went from being an naive urbanite with no plant growing experience to a gardening educator and resource to kids and adults alike. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/11/megan-cain/ for show notes and links.
Thu, March 09, 2017
206: Allison Duffy on Food Preservation.
206: Allison Duffy on Food Preservation. Canning and other preservation techniques to safely store foods longer. Allison has been growing and preserving food for over fifteen years. She is a Master Food Preserver, trained through the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, and holds a Master’s Degree in Gastronomy from Boston University. She has written about food for various publications including the Boston Globe, Backpacker magazine, and Taproot magazine, and is the author of the book Preserving with Pomona's Pectin . She regularly writes and develops recipes for the Pomona Pectin company, and blogs at her own website CanningCraft.com plus she teaches canning and preserving classes. Allison lives on several acres in Mid-coast Maine with her husband Ben and their two young boys, where they tend an apple orchard, look after a way-too-big vegetable garden, take care of chickens, and put up as much food as they can manage. In this podcast: Canning food is a favorite topic of Greg’s so of course he was excited to talk to Allison about her experiences and get some tips from her as well. As a bonus, they also chatted about her ‘too big’ garden and how this homestead is so rewarding for her family. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/09/allison-duffy/ for show notes and links.
Tue, March 07, 2017
205: Nancy Bailey on Prolific Vegetables in Small Spaces
Nancy Bailey on Prolific Vegetables in Small Spaces. Increasing the yield of a small garden through planning and care. Nancy had an idyllic childhood growing up in western New York State, right next door to her grandfather who she adored. He had a small farm where he raised a few head of beef cattle and always had a few dozen chickens. While much of the 10-acres was devoted to raising hay and grain to feed and bed the cattle, her father and grandfather also managed a large vegetable garden and an apple orchard. The garden produced a considerable bounty which her mom canned and froze; and while young, it didn’t occur to Nancy to consider how special it was to be fed on free-range grass-fed beef and farm fresh eggs, and to eat organically grown fruits and vegetables year-round. Today she looks back and realizes how lucky and loved she was. Although she’s always had a passion for ornamental horticulture, it wasn’t until retirement 2 years ago, that she got serious in raising vegetables and composting. By adding micro-nutrients and her own amendments, each season has yielded a more prolific harvest. Although her vegetable garden is less than 200 square feet, she reaps far more produce than she and her husband can consume. She says she raises vegetables for the joy of watching them grow as well as to consume and share with the neighbors. In this podcast: Greg chats with Nancy, an urban farmer from Southern California who explains how she is maximizing the potential of her very small garden. She has faced off critters of various sizes with some ingenious tricks and she is using soil amendments to make her soil healthy and her plants happy and productive. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/07/nancy-bailey/ for show notes and links.
Sat, March 04, 2017
204: Vanessa Sardi on Farm over Pharma
204: Vanessa Sardi on Farm over Pharma. Learning how to prevent health issues through achievable diet changes. Vanessa is Certified Health and Nutrition Coach with a unique perspective on health and wellness. She has a Master's degree in Cardiopulmonary Physiology, a bachelor’s in Sports Medicine, clinical work in Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, and research/sales positions in pharmaceutical and gene expression testing. Vanessa has a passion for nutrition & helping others to live healthy, fueled by her background and consistent studies. When Vanessa realized that “more pills” wasn’t the answer to better health , she walked away from her cushy salary as an Executive Sales Rep for one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world to start her own business, Nutriception®. As a Certified Health and Nutrition coach, she is now driven to help people get off their meds, many of which she promoted herself, and improve their health via a whole-foods, plant-based lifestyle. Vanessa’s slogan says it all…FARM over PHARMA. In this podcast: Greg finds another EPIC moment in this interview with Vanessa Sardi who tells why she decided to stop selling pharmaceutical drugs and instead is focusing on preventing issues through teaching about healthy diet choices. Tired of feeling like she was adding to problems, she wanted to be part of the solution and she went out and found a way to do just that. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/04/vanessa-sardi/ for show notes and links.
Thu, March 02, 2017
203: Anna Swanson and Meg Stratton on School and Community Gardens
Anna Swanson and Meg Stratton on School and Community Gardens Helping kids and community members understand food origins. Megan is a student at Binghamton University, and was drawn into the world of food and agriculture as a powerful way to address a range of current environmental, social, and ethical issues. After graduating with a self-designed degree focused on sustainable food systems, she moved to Glocester to join the FoodCorps. As a two-term FoodCorps service member, Meghan has been involved in all aspects of the Backyard Growers' school programs. Anna graduated from the College of William and Mary with a BA in Africana Studies and a minor in Environmental Studies. Looking for a way to integrate her desire to work for social justice and her interest in environmental sustainability, Anna became Backyard Growers’ first FoodCorps service member in the fall of 2013. After her year of service, she moved back to her hometown of Philadelphia, where she taught farm, food, and nutrition classes on the farm and in Philadelphia schools. In this podcast: Greg chats with an inspiring couple of women from Backyard Growers. Anna and Meghan help explain the purpose of this community organization and how satisfying it is to watch kids and community members learn about growing food and cooking the food they grow. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/03/02/anna-swanson-and-meghan-stratton/ for show notes and links.
Tue, February 28, 2017
202: Andrew Mefferd on Hoophouse and Greenhouse growing.
202: Andrew Mefferd on Hoophouse and Greenhouse growing. Improving crop production through the smart use of protected structures. Andrew spent seven years in the research department at Johnny’s Selected Seeds, traveling around the world to consult with researchers and farmers on the best practices in greenhouse growing. He put what he learned to use on his own farm in Maine. He is now the editor and publisher of Growing for Market magazine. Prior to starting his own farm, he worked on farms in six states across the US. Andrew also works as a consultant on the topics covered in his book The Greenhouse and Hoophouse Grower's Handbook Organic Vegetable Production using protected culture another great book published by Chelsea Green. In this podcast: Getting excited about agriculture in protected structures is the topic of discussion for Greg and his guest Andrew Medferd today. With a journey that took him across the United States, Andrew learned a lot about different types and sizes of farms. He explains how he used that experience to improve his skills why he hopes others can learn from it as well. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/28/andrew-mefferd/ for show notes and links. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/onedropfarm for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Sat, February 25, 2017
201: Jake Mace on Gardening with Seeds
201: Jake Mace on Gardening with Seeds Chat with an expert on gardening Jake Mace started his garden in 2011 with a peach tree, fig tree, pomegranate tree, and kumquat tree to save money on his food budget. Today, it’s a luscious green food forest. In Episode 001, we interviewed Jake about his urban farm, learned some of his best tips and tricks, how to avoid his failures, and became inspired by his mission to live a life that’s compassionate with a a zero- to positive-sum impact on the earth, particularly through his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. He also teaches Martial Arts, Fitness, Tai Chi, Yoga, Gardening, and Golf to people from around The World via his successful YouTube channel and Online Schools at JakeMace.com. Outside of teaching, Jake’s real passion is as an advocate for the environment, animals, and people. Jake has been a Vegan Vegetarian for nearly 16 years and believes in preserving The Earth, it’s resources, and it’s living inhabitants so that future generations can enjoy them as he has! Jake Studied Mandarin Chinese while attending ASU and Duke Universities. Currently Jake lives with his wife Pamela and their many adopted animals on their edible urban homestead in Tempe. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/25/jake-mace-cwe/ for show notes and links.
Thu, February 23, 2017
200: Josh Trought on Community-Scale Permaculture Farming
200: Josh Trought on Community-Scale Permaculture Farming Appreciating the wonders of a community farm with a resilient lifestyle. Born to two service-oriented medical professionals, he spent most of his upbringing in the fields and forests of North Carolina which at the time was transitioning from a rural agricultural economy into a service based economy. The sprawl and destruction of the traditional culture lost in the transition process left him with an undeniable distrust of growth and consumerism. So, he graduated from the University of Colorado with a degree in Environmental Conservation, and after college he spent the summer as an intern for the Solar Energy International’s renewable energy and construction school. He’s spent time abroad in Spain during college, and traveled through South America. And in 1997, he moved full time to what is now known as D Acres where he has specialized in forestry, construction, and farming. Currently he is a member of the Artistic Roots Co-op in Plymouth and serves as Treasurer of the Pemi-Baker Solid Waste District. He also participates in local government as the Dorchester Town Moderator overseeing elections and facilitating the annual Town Meeting. The fate of humanity preoccupies his thoughts. In This Podcast: Greg talks with Josh, a member of a permaculture farm community near Plymouth, NH, and learns about living a resilient lifestyle from someone who is living a truly community-oriented and sustainable farming lifestyle. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/23/josh-trought/ for show notes and links.
Tue, February 21, 2017
199: Kanin Routson on Apple Tree Diversity
199: Kanin Routson on Apple Tree Diversity Studying the genetics of an iconic and incredibly wide-ranging fruit. Kanin, has devoted his life to heritage apple tree diversity. In the pursuit of apple knowledge, Kanin has researched apple varieties from historic homesteads across Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah. During this research, he documented 34 known apple varieties and 110 unique trees of unknown origin. He has collected and propagated unique varieties of heritage trees from numerous small homestead orchards in Northern Arizona, as well as Capital Reef National Park and the historic Philmont Scout Ranch and Chase Ranch in New Mexico. This research and further research on wild apple genetic diversity led Kanin to complete a Master’s degree at Northern Arizona University and a Ph. D at the University of Arizona. In This Podcast: Greg was super excited to talk to Kanin and talk about the history of Apple Trees and find out why there is so much diversity in this very popular fruit tree. Kanin’s interest in apple orchards started young and prompted him to pursue his PhD to study this fruit tree even further. Find out why and what he is doing now with all that research!! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/21/kanin-routson/ for show notes and links.
Sat, February 18, 2017
198: Constantin Bisanz on sourcing healthy food.
198: Constantin Bisanz on sourcing healthy food. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through real food options. Health enthusiast, avid athlete and Austrian entrepreneur Constantin founded ALOHA in January 2014 with a mission to help others live healthier, happier lives. Along with his team, Constantin creates real food products made from simple, pure, sustainably-sourced ingredients, offering accessible solutions for everyone to maintain a healthy lifestyle. His inspiration for founding ALOHA came from studying Ayuryedic medicine in India—a holistic approach to health and wellness centered on the balance of mind, body and spirit—combined with his belief that nutrition is the foundation to overall wellness. This philosophy, fueled by his frustration with weak regulation, conflicting messages and lack of quality products and information in the food and health industries, laid the groundwork for ALOHA. In this podcast: A health enthusiast and entrepreneur Constantin Bisanz shares his story with Greg about getting the inspiration to start a health food company because he was struggling to find healthy food options. His active lifestyle gave him a need for good food, while at the same time challenged him to get access to real food options and with his background, he was ready to make a positive solution viable for other health conscious people. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/18/constantin-bisanz/ for show notes and links.
Thu, February 16, 2017
197: Perrine Herve-Gruyer on Miraculous Abundance
197: Perrine Herve-Gruyer on Miraculous Abundance. Learning self-sufficient farming from scratch on an organic farm in France. Perrine has worked as an international lawyer and head of the legal department of a major company in Asia, and has volunteered with the High Commissioner for Refugees. When she turned thirty, Perrine radically changed lanes, and began taking courses in psychotherapy, specifically in relaxation therapy, publishing a book titled La Relaxation en Famille. Then with her husband, Charles, she created their Bec Hellouin Farm, inspired by permaculture principles. They both wrote "Miraculous Abundance" Published by Chelsea Green and lead experiments on their farm. In 2018, they will publish another book that is a summary of all the technics they use to grow food…. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets a chance to talk to Perrine, a delightful French organic farmer and permaculture enthusiast and hear how she transformed her life by ditching her career as a lawyer to start a self-sufficient, organic farm without any engines at all. Now she and her husband are examples to others on how to successfully farm the old-fashioned way. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/16/perrine-herve-gruyer/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and our other great guests.
Tue, February 14, 2017
196: Josh Volk on Compact Farms
196: Josh Volk on Compact Farms. Making the most from small farms for the best viability. Josh is the author of Compact Farms by Storey Press in February 2017 . He is the proprietor of Slow Hand Farm in Portland, Oregon, and has been working on and managing small farms around the country for the last 20 years, studying the systems that make them efficient. He travels in the United States and abroad, consulting with farmers and researchers, teaching farm apprentices and new farmers, presenting workshops at agricultural conferences, and writing articles for publications, including Growing for Market magazine. Josh didn’t come from a farming background. He grew up on the edges of cities and his parents had vegetable gardens that he mostly ignored. When he went away to college and started cooking for himself, he became more interested in where his food came from and how to grow it. That interest grew, inspired by books on small-scale food production. There weren’t many writers on that topic then, and it wasn’t so long ago. In this podcast: Josh talks with Greg to explain his concept of making small farms the most productive and his background really helps give him an edge for understanding and explaining this to our listeners. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/14/josh-volk/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to our other great guests.
Sat, February 11, 2017
195: Cricket Aldridge on Suburban Homesteading
195: Cricket Aldridge on Suburban Homesteading. Finding personal euphoria in your own backyard . Cricket is natural homesteader. Growing up in rural Idaho with a garden, a horse, and lots of home canned food, she brings those sensibilities to her suburban home in Phoenix. Add a little dose of cottage garden flavor and permaculture tendencies, and you’ll see why her blog, GardenVariety.Life is a reflection of everything she does. Cricket enjoys sharing skills that promote a meaningful and practical connection to our gardens and environment. Because so many residents of the metro Phoenix area are transplants like her, she finds that the area’s unique desert climate is often misunderstood and underestimated in terms of what is possible. That’s where the fun begins. Arizona is a burgeoning permaculture haven with homesteading written all over it, and there is nothing Cricket enjoys more than encouraging others to jump in and give it a try. In this podcast: Fellow permaculturist and gardener Cricket Aldridge joins Greg in the studio to talk about her urban farm and how much she loves everything about it. She tells about some of her favorite aspects and what she’s able to grow or make from her harvests, from canning to mead making and many other things besides. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/11/cricket-aldridge/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and our other great guests.
Thu, February 09, 2017
194: Kate Miller on Bioregional Herbal Medicine
194: Kate Miller on Bioregional Herbal Medicine. Sourcing herbs and plants in the local ecosystems for health. Kate is a bioregional community herbalist, medicinal herb grower, & Permaculture Design Teacher. She is both formally trained and self-taught in the field of Permaculture Design, with focus on Dry-land Herb Farming, Herbal Medicine, Mountain Ecology, & Ethical Wildcrafting Practices. And she is a Certified Herbalist from the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism in Boulder. Kate became interested in herbal medicine through years of dealing with chronic illness, including Lyme Disease, food allergies, & autoimmune issues. Together with her partners Dawne and Stephanie, she runs the bioregional & biodynamic focused herbal product company, Dynamic Roots High Altitude Herbals. Kate is also a co-facilitator for the new Boulder Permaculture Design Course, Across the Divide, running one weekend a month from April through October all around the Front Range of Colorado. In the next year, Kate is opening Alpine Botanicals, an herbal apothecary, community herbal kitchen, & clinic in downtown Nederland, Colorado. In this podcast: Greg interviews Kate Miller, an herbalist with a focus on healing her community. She tells how she found her calling in herbalism and becoming a partner in an herbal product company and she explains why ethical harvesting of herbs is so important. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/09/kate-miller/ for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear from our other great guests.
Tue, February 07, 2017
193: Chat With An Expert - Bill McDorman
193: Chat With An Expert - Bill McDorman Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail-order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He authored the book, Basic Seed Saving, in 1994. In 2010, he and his wife Belle Starr created Seed School, a nationally recognized week-long training. He served as Executive Director of Native Seeds Search from 2011 to 2014. Bill is a passionate and knowledgeable presenter who inspires his audiences to learn to save their own seeds. This is the first in a handful of special interviews in our chat with an interview series. Bill joins us to share what is happening right now in the Southwest region with seed saving, including the upcoming Seed Summit and other seed events in the region. Bill shares a few insights and a couple interesting stories about some unique and really cool seeds. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/07/chat-with-an-expert-bill-mcdorman/ for links and show notes
Sat, February 04, 2017
192: Gene Baur on Protecting Farm Animals
192: Gene Baur on Protecting Farm Animals. Making choices to help defend animals in industrial agriculture. Gene is co‑founder and president of Farm Sanctuary, a national non-profit organization working to end cruelty to farm animals and change the way society views and treats farm animals. Hailed as “the conscience of the food movement” by TIME magazine and recently selected by Oprah Winfrey to join her Super Soul 100 dream team of “100 awakened leaders who are using their voices and talent to elevate humanity,” he was a pioneer in undercover investigations and instrumental in passing the first U.S. laws to ban inhumane factory farming practices. He has traveled extensively, campaigning to raise awareness about the abuses of animal agriculture and our cheap food system. Gene is the author of two national bestselling books: Farm Sanctuary: Changing Hearts and Minds about Animals and Food, and Living the Farm Sanctuary Life: The Ultimate Guide to Eating Mindfully, Living Longer, and Feeling Better Every Day. Gene has a master’s degree in agricultural economics from Cornell University, and is a faculty member at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Vegan since 1985, he’s recently started competing in marathons and triathlons, including an Ironman, to demonstrate the benefits of plant-based eating. In this podcast: The co-founder of Farm Sanctuary, Gene Baur, tells Greg about his life as a vegan and triathlete as well as what prompted him to create a safe facility for rescued farm animals. He has many helpful tips for those who are wanting to try the meatless lifestyle and diet, and he shares some insight on how to work with those you disagree with. Go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/04/gene-baur/ y for more information, photos and links on this podcast and to hear our other great guests.
Thu, February 02, 2017
191: Petra Page-Mann on Certified Organic Seeds
191: Petra Page-Mann on Certified Organic Seeds. Selecting bio-regionally adapted seeds and pursuing seed transparency. Raised in the Finger Lakes of New York, Petra spent over a decade traveling the world studying agriculture before returning to her hometown to start her own farm, Fruition Seeds, in 2012. She has worked for one of the smallest seed companies in the world & also one of the largest. She passionately grows, breeds, saves, shares & eats the seeds of certified organic, regionally adapted vegetables, flowers & herbs. If she’s not farming she is singing, on her bike, hunting mushrooms or sharing a feast with a friend. IN THIS PODCAST: Organic seed seller Petra Page-Mann chats with Greg about bio-regional adaptations in seeds, genetic purity in seeds, a special heatless habanero, and her seed company which is focused on organic seeds with genetic purity and transparency. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/02/02/petra-page-mann/ for show notes and links.
Tue, January 31, 2017
190: Grace Gershuny on The Organic Revolution
190: Grace Gershuny on The Organic Revolution. Recollecting early food system activism. Grace is widely k nown as an author, educator and organic consultant. In the 1990's she served on the staff of the USDA’s National Organic Program, where she helped write the regulations. She learned much of what she knows through her longtime involvement with the grassroots organic movement, where she organized conferences and educational events and developed an early organic certification program for the Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA). She currently teaches in the Green Mountain College online Masters in Sustainable Food Systems program and serves on the Board of the Institute for Social Ecology. She has a Masters in Extension Education from the University of Vermont, with a self-designed concentration in Ecological Agriculture. Doing business as GAIA Service she works as an independent organic inspector. She also does consulting for private and non-profit clients on all aspects of organic certification, developing related standards and certification systems, and training programs. A reformed market gardener, Grace still grows her own veggies and chicken in Barnet, Vermont. In this podcast: Greg is impressed when he gets a chance to talk with Grace who tells about being part of the early organic food movement and her part in writing the first standards for organic food regulation. Her story is important for anyone who is interested in being active in writing food policy for our legislators. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/30/grace-gershuny/ for show notes and links.
Sat, January 28, 2017
189: Manuel Gonzalez on Innovation in Food and Ag.
189: Manuel Gonzalez on Innovation in Food and Ag. Pitching food and agriculture related business ideas to potential investors. Manuel is the North America Head of StartUp Innovation at Rabobank, where he leads the growth of their start-up platform build through FoodBytes! and new Accelerator, Terra . At the same time, he focuses on developing plans around how relationships with startup firms can benefit corporate clients. Manuel has been Head of the San Francisco Office of StartUp Innovation since 2012, where he led a process that greatly strengthened relationships with corporate clients in the Western Region of the US. He joined Rabobank in 1996 as a project manager. In 2003, he was named Head of Credit, and a year later became Head of Credit and Legal. Manuel was appointed Deputy General Manager in 2007, and just a year later promoted to General Manager in 2008. Under his leadership, the Mexico franchise significantly strengthened business performance, achieving considerable increases in revenue, cross-sell and net income. Manuel was instrumental in building a strong local investment banking team, and in fostering a high-performance culture focused on enhancing client relationships. In this podcast: Manuel is someone who works to help people with food-and-ag related business ideas connect with investors and start the process towards funding those ideas. He tells Greg about the FoodBytes business pitch event that is focused on food and ag, as well as Terra and Rabobank with their focus on innovation in this business field. His take on how to deal with failure is something every person who runs or hopes to run their own business should hear. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/28/manuel-gonzalez/ for show notes and links.
Thu, January 26, 2017
188: Megan Whatton on The Urban Habitat Network
188: Megan Whatton on The Urban Habitat Network. Mapping the habitats of wildlife around the world a section at a time. Megan is the Urban Habitat Network Manager for The Nature Conservancy. She works with scientists, partners, private landowners, citizen scientists and volunteers to re-imagine their properties as habitat for the benefit of wildlife and people. Most recently she was the volunteer coordinator for the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute on the eMammal project to monitor mammal populations in the mid-Atlantic region. Megan has a M.S. Degree in Environmental Science and Policy from George Mason University and B.S. Degree from Ball State University. In this podcast: Megan introduces Greg and his listeners to the Nature Conservancy and the Habitat Network Project. This project creates citizen scientists around the globe and is working to map the globe with their data to paint a picture of the wildlife in every part of the world. Megan explains how this project got started and how easy, fun and rewarding being a member of the network can be. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/26/megan-whatton/ for show notes and links.
Tue, January 24, 2017
187: Sherrie Pelsma on Macro Photography in the Garden
187: Sherrie Pelsma on Macro Photography in the Garden. Looking at garden wildlife from a whole new perspective. Sherrie grew up on the rural Oregon Coast before moving to Portland to finish her degree. She has spent the last 10 years in Community Education, and runs a program where participants learn Do-It-Yourself skills to make homes safer and more energy efficient. As an environmentalist who loves macro photography, she took a special interest in pollinators and other insects which quickly blossomed into the love that drove the founding of the project Pollinator Parkways. In this podcast: Greg gets a chance to talk with Sherrie about her garden photography. Sheri has been developing her skills with macro photography and loves to share the results with her projects and her community. Here she helps explains the basics of garden photography, and tells how looking through the camera lens has given her a whole new perspective on the tiny lifeforms around her. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/24/sherrie-pelsma-2/ for show notes and links.
Sat, January 21, 2017
186: Robin Kelson on Seed Saving-Resiliency.
186: Robin Kelson on Seed Saving-Resiliency. Keeping the strength of genetic traits through community sharing of seeds. Robin is the owner of the Good Seed Company - “heirloom seeds for common use,” a small heirloom vegetable, flower and herb seed company based in Whitefish, MT and dedicated to helping re-establish the community practice of selecting, saving and sharing seeds for common use. The Good Seed Company envisions becoming a model for cultivating community-grown resilient seeds, seed savers and gardeners, and offers “workshops from soil to seed” under the trade name: “DIY:GROW”, including a one-year “seed steward” internship. DIY:GROW seeks to reduce the barrier to entry for anyone wanting to take control of their food. A biochemist and attorney by training, Robin has spent over 30 years exploring human vitality, resiliency, and patterns in the natural world. In support of cultivating a sustainability perspective for our common future, she also offers "The Resiliency Dialogues", presentations for all audiences that introduce simple tools from nature for practicing resiliency in any context and to invite dialogue on this subject. In this podcast: Greg talks to a former lawyer Robin Kelson who now runs The Good Seed Company. She shares her story about the unexpected transition in her life leading her to her work around seeds. One of the big events in her new life is an epic community event focused on seed saving and sharing. She also explains why the company is using seeds from backyard growers. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/21/robin-kelson/ for show notes and links.
Thu, January 19, 2017
185: Elaine Ingham on Life in the Soil.
185: Elaine Ingham on Life in the Soil. Examining the biology of healthy soil to improve plant growth. Dr. Elaine Ingham is the Founder, President and Director of Research for Soil Foodweb Inc., a business that grew out of her Oregon State University research program. Behind her user-friendly approach to soil lies a wealth of knowledge gained from years of research into the organisms which make up the soil food web. Her goal is to translate this knowledge into actions that ensure a healthy food web that promotes plant growth and reduces reliance on inorganic chemicals. Elaine also offers a pioneering vision for sustainable farming, improving our current soils to a healthier state, without damaging any other ecosystem. In her spare time, Elaine publishes scientific papers, writes book chapters and gives talks at symposia around the world. Elaine and her husband Russ (who also has a Doctorate from Colorado State University in Zoology , emphasizing nematology,) live in Corvallis Oregon. In this podcast: Greg talks with one of the foremost experts on soil health Dr. Elaine Ingham and learns a lot about the world of microbiological life in the soil. Her studies have been amazing and it is easy to see how being a student in one of her classes can be quite informative. She tells about how she became so focused on the microbiological life in the soil and educates us on the importance of those first few dozen inches of earth our food is grown in. This is a mini course of science in just one podcast. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/19/elaine-ingham/ for show notes and links.
Tue, January 17, 2017
184: Michael Phillips on Holistic Orcharding
184: Michael Phillips on Holistic Orcharding. Growing fruit trees by creating a healthy ecosystem. Michael is known across the country for helping people grow healthy apples and understand the healing virtues of plant medicines. The “community orchard movement” he helped institute can be found at GrowOrganicApples.com and provides a full immersion into the holistic approach to orcharding. His farm, Lost Nation Orchard, is part of a diversified medicinal herb farm in northern New Hampshire. There, two acres of trees supply local families with many varieties of organic apples, and has a cider mill in the planning stages. Michael is the author of The Apple Grower: A Guide for the Organic Orchardist , and The Holistic Orchard and co-author with his wife Nancy for The Herbalist’s Way: The Art and Practice of Healing with Plant Medicines . His newest book, Mycorrhizal Planet: How Symbiotic Fungi Work with Roots to Support Plant Health and Build Soil Fertility , will be available in March 2017. Michael was honored by Slow Food USA to receive the first Betsy Lydon Ark Award for his work promoting healthy ways to grow fruit. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg has found an east coast twin when he talks to a fruit tree farmer named Michael Phillips who has been growing apple trees in New Hampshire with a care that works for the health of the trees and the ecosystem in which they live. Michael grows and sells fruit trees and he focuses a lot of offering tree growing education as well. He shares his main points of growing healthy fruit trees and explains why some of the steps are so beneficial to trees. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/17/michael-phillips/ for show notes and links.
Sat, January 14, 2017
183: Shawn Jadrnicek on The Bio-Integrated Farm.
183: Shawn Jadrnicek on The Bio-Integrated Farm. Maximizing functions from landscape elements to save time, energy and money. Shawn has nourished his interest in sustainability through work as an organic farmer, nursery grower, extension agent, arborist, and landscaper, and now as the manager of Clemson University’s Student Organic Farm. From his earliest permaculture experiments with no-till farming in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California to his highly functional bio-integrated designs in the Southeast, Shawn has learned how to cultivate food in a variety of climates and landscapes. He shares his creative solutions through teaching, consulting, design work and his book The Bio-Integrated Farm: A Revolutionary Permaculture Based System Using Greenhouses, Ponds, Compost Piles, Aquaponics, Chickens and More - Published by Chelsea Green. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets Shawn who explains a key permaculture concept of having multiple functions from one element. Shawn tells how he has designed many projects focusing on elements that have at least seven functions each. With his experience, he has brought together several examples in his new book and so he shares some ideas in this interview. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/14/shawn-jadrnicek/ for show notes and links.
Thu, January 12, 2017
182: Matthew Shepherd on Planting to Feed Bees
182: Matthew Shepherd on Planting to Feed Bees. Expanding the habitat of an essential pollinator through our garden choices. Matthew’s career began in England where he established a successful community-based conservation program in Essex and helped to create Samfire Hoe, an award-winning nature park. He has also worked with local communities and government agencies in Kenya to improve the management of the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest, on the coast north of Mombasa. He has created and maintained gardens that provide for insects and other wildlife everywhere he has lived, a passion that began when he learned gardening at his mother’s side. Matthew’s introduction to pollinator conservation actually came two decades ago, on a sunny hillside in southern England, while working on a project to protect disappearing grasslands. He was manually using an artist’s paintbrush to transfer pollen between endangered orchids and realized there was obviously something missing in that ecosystem. Five years later, after marrying an American and moving to Oregon, Matthew was working for the Xerces Society at the vanguard of a new effort to protect pollinators. In the past 15 years, he has collaborated with people from all walks of life to promote awareness about, and protection of, pollinator insects, especially native bees. Matthew is author of numerous articles and other publications, including Attracting Native Pollinators and Gardening for Butterflies . He is now the Society’s Communications Director, reducing the amount of time spent with pollinators, but increasing the time supporting the many other aspects of Xerces conservation work. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with Matthew Shepherd of the Xerces Society to learn more about their latest book titled 100 Plants to Feed the Bees, as well as some of the projects the Society has been working on. Matthew’s story of how he got to work for the Xerces Society is a little world tour and then he helps explain more about different bees and what they need. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/12/matthew-shepherd/ for show notes and links.
Tue, January 10, 2017
181: Quita Jackson on Thrifty Self Sufficiency.
181: Quita Jackson on Thrifty Self Sufficiency. Taking small steps to being green and making a difference. Quita is one of the founders of GreenDesert.org. And while some would call her an urban farmer or a gardener, she prefers to consider herself spiritually connected to mother earth and her environment. She loves everything about nature! GreenDesert.org is all about showing people ways to be more self-sufficient, whether you’re gardening, making your own clothes, recycling, or making your own cleaning products… every little bit counts. Quita is all about living the lifestyle…everything from maintaining a garden rich with herbs, vegetables and fruit, to raising chickens and tilapia, to using a water generator to make water from the humidity in the air, to collecting rainwater and The list goes on. She is quite passionate about this topic because she believes we are all in this together… and must recognize how our actions about the environment affects others. In addition, saving money is a huge priority for her and of course that’s a huge part of being green. IN THIS PODCAST: Being green is all about having less of a negative impact on the planet and here Greg chats with Quita who has fully adopted a new lifestyle and loves helping others find their way into it as well. Quita tells how she got the courage to start gardening, and how that gave her confidence to try new ways to become self-sufficient even while living in a major city. Her encouraging attitude and caring nature helps as she spreads the word about little steps people can take in their own lives. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/10/quita-jackson/ for show notes and links.
Sat, January 07, 2017
180: Brian Smith on Biochar
180: Brian Smith on Biochar. Enhancing your soils through an ancient, carbon-sequestering, process. Brian is a systems engineer and project manager living in north Phoenix. For the past 30 years, he has worked for GE, Boeing, Lockheed Martin and Honeywell on software for flight control systems in commercial and military aircraft. Recently, he became an entrepreneur and started a small software development company. To balance his high-tech career, he has enjoyed more simple hobbies like making beer, woodworking, and organic gardening. During the Great Recession, he purchased a foreclosed property that had been neglected and abused for many years and he has spent the last 8 years renovating both the indoors and outdoors. After removing 5 layers of different landscaping stone that previous owners had covered the yard with, he spread several inches of arborist wood chips over the dirt to reduce water loss and increase soil fertility. In the backyard he converted a broken-down diving pool into a private aquifer by filling it with rock and gravel, connecting a pump to the drain pipe and covering it with topsoil. He now has several fruit trees and a vegie garden growing on top of 3000 or 4000 gallons of secure rainwater. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks to Brian, a transplant to Arizona who needed to improve his gardening results and found out about biochar. Brian explains the process that was used over 2000 years ago, to transform burned wood into a long lasting organic super buffet with nutrients galore. He tells how he was so interested in the results that he took his research to the point that he can now make his own biochar in his backyard. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/07/brian-smith/ for show notes and links.
Thu, January 05, 2017
179: Penn Parmenter on Passive Solar Greenhouses
179: Penn Parmenter on Passive Solar Greenhouses. Designing greenhouses using the natural laws of nature as allies and resources. Since 1992 Penn and her husband Cord have been growing food just above the 8,000 feet level in the Wet Mountains of South Central Colorado. With many years of research and development, they founded Smart Greenhouses LLC and Miss Penn’s Mountain Seeds in 2013, Together they build smart greenhouses all over the Rocky Mountain West at even the highest elevations. Their greenhouses are 100% sustainable as they heat, cool and ventilate themselves without the use of fossil fuel. Penn and Cord are also co-instructors at the Denver Botanic Gardens teaching a slew of high-altitude growing classes there and around the region. Their very popular day-long Sustainable Greenhouse Design class is held on their 43-acre property and at the Denver Botanic Gardens. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg connects again with Penn to talk about the greenhouse designs she and her husband create, sell and teach about. Penn tells how her husband Cord took passive solar concepts and implemented them into the first greenhouse they built from reclaimed and scrap materials, and how they have made many improvements over time. Their greenhouse once kept her precious tomatoes safe and growing during a week of temperatures 10 and 20 degrees below zero. High altitude growing was the impetus for their greenhouse designs, and Cord’s skills and need for perfection have created some results that would make any gardener rethink their calendars. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/05/penn-parmenter-2/ for show notes and links.
Tue, January 03, 2017
178: Jayson Matthews on Solutions to Hunger.
178: Jayson Matthews on Solutions to Hunger. Discussing food insecurity in urban communities and how to improve resilience against hunger. Jayson is currently the Director of Ending Hunger for the Valley of the Sun United Way and has been with the organization since September 2014. Before joining the United Way, Jayson served as Executive Assistant to former Tempe Mayor Neil Guiliano, as the Assistant Director and Chief Program Officer of Tempe Community Council, and as the Chief Development Officer for United Food Bank. Jayson earned a Bachelors of Arts in English Literature and Political Science from the University of Arizona in 1999 and a Masters in Public Administration from Arizona State University in 2003. He is also a graduate of Tempe Leadership, a trained facilitator specializing in nonprofit board development and community development, and recently became a Certified Poverty Coach. He is a fierce advocate for human services and public service and demonstrates this through his volunteer work on various municipal boards, commissions, and nonprofit boards in Phoenix and Tempe. In his free time, he enjoys going on adventures with his dear wife and partner Emma and their adorable dog, Daisy. IN THIS PODCAST: The complex and oft misunderstood situation of food insecurity and hunger are the discussion focus in Greg’s interview with Jayson Matthews. Jayson’s personal history growing up as the son of a young single mother gave him the empathy he needed to fill his role at the United Way. Jayson helps to explain many of the distinctions of hunger as well as how prevalent the reality is in the urban communities in America. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2017/01/03/jayson-matthews/ for show notes and links.
Sat, December 31, 2016
177: Drew Taddia on Reducing Stress and Detoxing Smartly.
177: Drew Taddia on Reducing Stress and Detoxing Smartly. Making long lasting changes a little at a time and using a plant-based diet to avoid toxins. Drew has traveled the world as a professional athlete coming from Canada, working through the US, and overseas into Australia and Germany following his dreams and passion of baseball. He quickly became the ‘go to’ guy regarding fitness and nutrition as he continually experimented on his own body to find out what foods would help him recover quicker or build muscle more efficiently, and how to exercise to help him jump higher, run faster, and help him stand out on the field. He soon found out stress played a vital role in what he was putting both in and on his body. He learned that by reducing stress through a plant based diet and avoiding toxins both on and off the field, he could improve as an athlete and stand out from the competition. Using what he learned, Drew wrote the best-selling book Detoxify Yourself , which is a 30-day plant-based meal plan teaching readers how to avoid toxins, chose foods to help heal and recover, and how to prepare the meals with recipes and grocery lists. Concerned about the toxins on the market in conventional protein supplements, he designed his own plant based protein powder made with quinoa and hemp hearts. Drew has also been on air for 5 years as a radio host (96.5 ckfm) where he interviews world renowned experts in health, fitness, nutrition, lifestyle and more. In this podcast: Greg interviews health and fitness advocate and radio show host Drew Taddia, and they talk about the importance of reducing stress and making sustainable lifestyle changes that work. Drew teaches about using a different mindset when making lifestyle changes, and how that can be the difference in succeeding or failing. He tackles health and fitness in three areas of nutrition, exercise and environment and explains how to keep it from becoming overwhelming. “If you never start, you're never going to get anywhere” Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/31/drew-taddia/ for show notes and links.
Thu, December 29, 2016
176: Cory Williams on Tropical Fruit Trees
176: Cory Williams on Tropical Fruit Trees. Growing a tropical fruit forest paradise in spite of a harsh climate. Cory lives in Chandler, Arizona and owns a video production company called Studio 9 Production. Prior to that, he spent 5 years in radio in Flagstaff, AZ, and 12 years on TV in Phoenix, as a Sports Anchor / Reporter for the local news channels. Cory got into farming and gardening after a trip to Napa Valley in Sonoma, California, about 15 years ago, at which time he was inspired to start growing his own grapes. Following that trip, every time he moved he planted more and more grapevines at each house. Until 4 years ago, when he and his wife purchased a home on an acre and a half. As soon as they moved in, they started planting. He began by just focusing on gardening and some vines, and then over the last couple years, he’s jumped head-first into full-fledged tree farming. He now has over 150 trees, vines and fruiting plants, and he is proud to claim that he planted every one himself and maintains them all. Cory is happily married and they have four kids ages 6, 4, 2, and just welcomed a brand-new baby to their family. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets Cory Williams, a man who could not take ‘You can’t do that’ for an answer. Cory has transformed his home just outside of Phoenix to his own tropical fruit forest paradise using microclimates, observation, experimentation, and frankly ignoring naysayers. His interest started with a few wine grapes and he got bit by the growing bug as he now has over 150 trees on his urban property and is not done trying new things. His can-do attitude is infectious and you might have new goals after listening to this podcast. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/29/cory-williams/ for show notes and links.
Tue, December 27, 2016
175: Kaye Kittrell on Urban Gardening.
175: Kaye Kittrell on Urban Gardening. Discovering organic gardening alongside a determined learner. In the fall of 2011, Kaye converted the front yard and parkway of her home in Pacific Palisades, CA, into an edible garden. She removed all non-edible grass, small trees and bushes that occupied approximately 300 square feet of valuable sunny area, and planted citrus trees and herbs. In April 2012, Kaye began her urban garden blog, “Late Bloomer Show”, sharing her results with other urban gardeners, food bloggers and family farmers. With her photography skills and on-camera likeability from 30 years as a working actor in New York and Hollywood, Kaye created a web show, also titled “Late Bloomer,” chronicling her discovering how to grow food. A year later, her summer garden produced over 150 lbs. of produce, about 40 percent of which was given away. She also wrote her first e-book, “10 Steps to a Great First Garden.” And, in 2015, Kaye created her first DVD, “Growing Heirloom Tomatoes,” a compilation of her five-part series on YouTube. “Late Bloomer” now has 96 episodes on YouTube and in 2015 won Best Edutainment Series at Miami Web Fest 2015. In 2016, Kaye added a vlog to the channel, which includes 50 videos and offers Kaye an opportunity to visit and share other gardens and urban farms with her audience. Kaye’s goal is to inspire anyone to grow their own food and take charge of their food security. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with a new friend Kaye, a recent convert to organic gardening who has been chronicling her challenges and amazing successes in her small garden. Living in California on the beach has it benefits, but it also comes with a challenging microclimate due to early morning fogs that limit the sun to her small garden. Kaye shares how she was inspired to start a vlog about her learning curve and has won several accolades for her work. She is still learning, but she is willing to share both the challenges and the answers she is finding on this new journey to food security. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/27/kaye-kittrell/ for show notes and links.
Sat, December 24, 2016
174: Shaun Keesee on Biointensive Farming.
174: Shaun Keesee on Biointensive Farming A beginner's experience converting to larger scale organic farming. Shaun has an upstart one-acre mini-farm called BioManna Farms in Warrenton, NC. On his farm he grows using a combination of conventional and bio-intensive techniques, slowly moving towards a completely organic set up and is growing in all four seasons, with majority of production coming during the typical growing season. He is planning to expand to three acres in the future, and into other ventures to diversify, such as beekeeping, vermicomposting, and nursery growing. Shaun is in the process of starting a CSA, has taken agricultural entrepreneurship classes at his local community college, and has secured three local restaurants to buy his produce. IN THIS PODCAST: In this podcast: Greg talks to a newer farmer in Shaun who is having some success using biointensive farming techniques. Shaun shares how he reclaimed the land his family was leasing out to a hay farmer and starting growing crops to sell to markets and restaurants. He is applying the skills he has learned through his reading, internet and agriculture courses at his local college. His interest in organic farming is taking root in his community and he is gladly sharing a few tips here. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/24/shaun-keesee/ for show notes and links.
Thu, December 22, 2016
173: Brendan Gaughran on Liver and Gut Health
173: Brendan Gaughran on Liver and Gut Health Understanding the sequence of food drive n diseases Brendan holds a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Connecticut and his MBA from Bentley University. He has spent 15 years in the Healthcare field and was an executive for a major nutraceutical manufacturer before starting multiple companies of his own, the latest being Liver Medic. He conducts health lectures to both physicians and the public. His research focuses primarily on gut health, liver health, endocrine system, adrenal fatigue and optimum diets. IN THIS PODCAST: Brendan teaches Greg a lot about the functions and dysfunctions of the liver and gut, and how a cascade of medical issues can be traced back to the health of the gut. Brendan explains why he gave up his well-paying career to focus on finding answers on the treatment of metabolic syndrome. He describes what his research has revealed and how our foods we eat are a huge contributor to our health, starting with our gut bacteria. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/22/brendan-gaughran/ for show notes and links.
Tue, December 20, 2016
172: Ocean Robbins on Changing our Food Future
172: Ocean Robbins on Changing our Food Future Finding the motivation to make changes in our diets At 15, Ocean was a co-founder of the Creating Our Future environmental speaking tour, on which he and three other participants spoke in person to more than 30,000 students, presented for 2,000 people at the United Nations, and opened for the Jerry Garcia band in San Francisco. In 1990 at age 16, Ocean founded YES!, an organization he directed for the next 20 years with the goal of connecting, inspiring and mobilizing visionary young leaders worldwide. He has since spoken to hundreds of thousands of people, led hundreds of retreats, workshops and Jams for leaders in over 65 nations, written books, mentored (and learned from) changemakers, and been a creative partner and lead editor for several bestsellers. In 2012 Ocean founded the Food Revolution Network, which now has more than 350,000 members working for healthy, sustainable, humane and delicious food. He currently serves as adjunct professor in the Peace Studies department at Chapman University. Ocean has personally spoken and facilitated leadership gatherings in Jordan, Israel/Palestine, Singapore, Costa Rica, Russia, Finland, Canada, the Netherlands, India, Peru, and across the USA. All this and he is also an active and proud father of special needs twins, a lover of life, and a human being who is trying to live in a good way on this earth. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with Ocean Robbins of the Food Revolution Network to talk about changing our food future and how important it is to make a change in today’s diets. Starting at a very young age, Ocean had been motivated and inspired to help others eat better for their own health. Now as an adult and father, his drive has only grown stronger and deeper to spread a message of education on the food choices being made today. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/20/ocean-robbins/ for show notes and links.
Sat, December 17, 2016
171: Robbie Shell on Honeybees and Colony Collapse Disorder
171: Robbie Shell on Honeybees and Colony Collapse Disorder. A researcher's perspective on the marvelous efficiency of honeybees. Robbie was a business journalist and co-author of a book on leadership, who turned her attention to honeybees when her brother, a beekeeper, brought her jars of honey harvested from his backyard hives. Inspired by the teamwork and efficiency displayed by these tiny pollinators, she left her job as a business editor/writer and wrote “Bees on the Roof.” The middle-grade environmental fiction novel tells the story of four seventh graders competing in a science competition but also educates young readers about the importance of honeybees to our environment and the dangers they face from the still mysterious Colony Collapse Disorder. Robbie, who graduated from Princeton University with a degree in history, grew up in Connecticut and has lived in Charlottesville, Va., Boston, Mass., New York City and Washington, D.C. She and her husband now live in Philadelphia, where they raised their two sons. She has never been stung by a honeybee (Wasps are a different story.) IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets Robbie who is not a farmer or gardener but really has a story to tell that can make a difference. Robbie was inspired by some honeybees and decided to learn more about them. Her research eventually led her to write an environmental fiction book for middle school kids to help them understand and appreciate the honeybees and the challenge of colony collapse disorder. She shares with Greg some of the amazing details she learned through her research and talks about how adults and kids can help the bees. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/17/robbie-shell/ for show notes and links.
Thu, December 15, 2016
170: Don Tipping on Seeds and Plant Breeding
170: Don Tipping on Seeds and Plant Breeding Cultivating the future through seed saving and education Don has been offering hands-on, practical workshops at Seven Seeds Farm since 1997. His farm is a small, organic family farm in the Siskiyou Mountains of SW Oregon; situated at 2,000 feet elevation on a 7,000-foot-tall-forested mountain with rushing spring fed creeks flowing through the land and nestled among old growth forests. Don helped to found the Siskiyou Sustainable Cooperative, which manages a 300 share CSA, a commercial seed growing operation, and an equipment co-op and internship curriculum among the 12 cooperating farms. He also co-founded the Family Farmers Seed Cooperative, a seed growing, marketing and distribution cooperative comprised of 10 western organic farms. He sits on the board of the Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance and is a regular contributor to the Oregon State University Small Farms educational program. Don is also a charter member of the Open Source Seed Initiative (OSSI) as a plant breeder and a seed company advocate. Don is regularly sought out as a teacher, collaborator and consultant in the Pacific Northwest. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with an organic seed farmer and educator Don also explains how and why a couple cooperatives got started including the Open Source Seed Initiative. He has been able to open his farm to host intensive seed academy classes and he guides Greg through the topics that are covered. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/15/don-tipping/ for show notes and links.
Tue, December 13, 2016
Sarah Highlen on Farm Marketing
169: Sarah Highlen on Farm Marketing Offering cost-effective marketing for small farms and food producers Sarah spent 17 years in the marketing industry, working with clients across diverse industries. As her values evolved, her career in marketing became dispiriting — until she realized she could use her marketing skills for something she felt really good about: good food. Sarah founded Grapevine Local Food Marketing in 2016 to help small farms, local food producers, and other small food businesses. In August, Katy Horst joined the Grapevine team, and together Sarah and Katy provide websites, logos, Facebook marketing, email newsletters, and other marketing services to clients in Indiana and beyond. When Sarah's not working on marketing projects, she's usually growing food, buying food, cooking food, photographing food, or eating food. Sarah also enjoys helping people develop an appreciation for real food through education and recipes, and she's a founding member and board president of her local food council (NWI Food Council). IN THIS PODCAST: Greg hears from a woman who got tired of marketing food “products” and figured out it was much more rewarding to market for small family farms and local food producers instead. Sarah tells how her desire to eat better and be healthier led her to a farm that needed some help. This led to a very satisfying career change and a chance to make a difference for local people who make real food and help regular people find the sources of the good food. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/13/sarah-highlen/ for show notes and links.
Sat, December 10, 2016
Kerry Audisho on Locally Grown Foods
168: Kerry Audisho on Locally Grown Foods Connecting a community to a healthier diet and access to locally grown foods. Kerry is a wife, mother, certified Dr. Sears health coach, local food advocate, and lover of food growing. She spends her time visiting various farms and gardens in and around Phoenix, and connecting consumers directly to local growers. She organizes three Meetup groups, Your Farm Foods, Arizona Natural Food Group and Food as Medicine. She blogs at yourfarmfoods.com and has created an online open marketplace, friendingfarmers.com that allows users to buy, sell and share our locally grown foods. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks with Kerry to find out why she is so committed to helping others improve their diets and connect with locally grown foods. Kerry shares the story of her conversion to healthy foods and then how even that diet was improved after a trip to a restaurant with a friend. Her experience giving up sugar is a startling one. She also explains how she started her meet-up group to help her community connect with locally grown foods. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/10/kerry-audisho/ for show notes and links.
Thu, December 08, 2016
Kristin Nikodemski on the Grow it Yourself Revolution
Kristin Nikodemski on the Grow it Yourself Revolution Encouraging growth in the community of organic gardeners As the Product Marketing Manager for Arborjet and The Dirt on Dirt , Kristin divides her time between marketing, supporting, and developing products for the horticulture industry. From her early days helping her father in the yard, working for garden centers, and professionally managing consumer garden brands since 2010, Kristin brings a wealth of experience. In her free time, Kristin is an avid indoor & outdoor gardener, artist, and foodie. She is a graduate of Salve Regina University. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg learns more about some organic gardening resources from Kristin who tells her story of how she joined a sustainability focused horticulture company. Kristin has found a way to blend her love of gardening with a care of community by helping create the Dirt on Dirt community. She also helps explain some of the Arborjet products and why they work. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/08/kristin-nikodemski/ for show notes and links.
Tue, December 06, 2016
Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care
166: Susan Poizner on Fruit Tree Care Nurturing relationships with community and nature through orchards and fruit trees. Susan is an urban orchardist in Toronto, Canada. She is the author of the award-winning fruit tree care book “Growing Urban Orchards” and the creator of an award-winning online fruit tree care training course. In her in-person and online workshops Susan has trained hundreds of students from across North America. Her students include Master Gardeners, arborists and people who are completely new to gardening and fruit tree care. Susan is also the host and creator of The Urban Forestry Radio Show and Podcast on RealityRadio101.com. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets another lover of fruit trees with Susan who founded a community orchard in her home town and found her calling as well. Susan tells how she got the idea to start an orchard in her neighborhood park, and how learning everything she could about fruit trees has morphed into her popular education program. Her down-to-earth nature is very apparent as she explains some highs and lows on this journey and how her love for her community of people and trees has grown beyond her expectations. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/06/susan-poizner/ for show notes and links.
Sat, December 03, 2016
Penn Parmenter on High Altitude Tomatoes
165: Penn Parmenter on High Altitude Tomatoes Growing and saving seeds for extreme or challenging climates Since 1992 Penn and her husband Cord have been growing food just above the 8,000 feet level in the Wet Mountains of South Central Colorado. With many years of research and development, they founded Smart Greenhouses LLC and Miss Penn’s Mountain Seeds in 2013, Miss Penn’s Mountain Seeds is a small, high-altitude, bio-regional seed company servicing the mountain people. As a tomato specialist, she offers over 200 varieties of adapted tomatoes – the Holy Grail of the mountains; as well as around 50 native wildflowers along with a mix of garden flowers, herbs and wild foods. Penn and Cord have three famished sons, Maximilian, Beauregard and Wulfgar who help them in all aspects of their work. IN THIS PODCAST: we hear an enthusiastic and fun guest as Penn chats with Greg about her passion for growing and saving seeds. Penn tells how she got started in the seed business and why she enjoys her job so much. Besides making the act of saving seeds sound really fun, she also explains why it is so important. Her upbeat and positive nature has a great effect, and with the way she describes her crops, it must be like adopting a loved one when you order seeds from her. And if you have a garden, her explanation of how seeds adapt for the area they are grown might just be enough to encourage you to try seed saving on your own. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/03/penn-parmenter/ for show notes and links.
Thu, December 01, 2016
Jeff Moyer on Organic Farmers Association
164: Jeff Moyer on Organic Farmers Association Giving a larger voice to organic farmers in national policy discussions. Jeff is a world-renowned authority in organic agriculture. His expertise includes organic crop production systems with a focus on weed management, cover crops, crop rotations, equipment modification and use, and facilities design. Jeff is perhaps most well-known for conceptualizing and popularizing the No-Till Roller Crimper for use in organic agriculture. In 2011, he wrote Organic No-Till Farming , a publication that has become a resource for farmers throughout the world. In September 2015, Jeff was appointed as Executive Director of Rodale Institute after spending the last four decades there, helping countless farmers make the transition from conventional, chemical-based farming to organic methods. IN THIS PODCAST: Author Jeff Moyer chats with Greg about the importance of organic farming, the role and purpose of the Rodale Institute, and the new Organic Famers Association. Jeff has a great passion for a change in food production to a healthier method, and it is obvious as he explains the history of the Rodale Institute. He explains why it is important to have organic agriculture and how consumers change affect the whole food system with just a simple act. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/12/01/jeff-moyer/ for show notes and links.
Tue, November 29, 2016
Melinda Adkins on Learning Homesteading Skills
163: Melinda Adkins on Learning Homesteading Skills Rekindling skills of past generations and sharing thrifty gardening tips Melinda’s Urban Homesteader journey began as a child watching her mother and grandmother tend their gardens which instilled in her a love and appreciation for gardening. After college she purchased a home in the city and secured employment with the local school district as well as a part-time Park Ranger. The park had an 1880's working farm on the property which gave her the opportunity to visit and observe vintage skills. It was during her time as a Park Ranger that her love for the outdoors and living a simpler life really grew. She has a great love of nature, has earned a Wildlife Habitat Certification as a result. Eventually, she began incorporating skills she learned from the farm staff into her own urban homestead. Somehow she finds time to watch documentaries in her spare time to continue her learning. Melinda is highly invested in helping her community and is the founder of HPC-Community.com IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks to community homesteader Melinda who founded a community group to share tips and experiences while learning about homesteading. Melinda was a bit of a groundbreaker in her town with some unorthodox thinking, so in order to find others with similar preparedness and vintage skills interests she created an online group. Her goal is to share gardening and preparedness information affordably. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/29/melinda-adkins/ for show notes and links.
Sat, November 26, 2016
Jesse Sparks on Neighborhood Harvesting
162: Jesse Sparks on Neighborhood Harvesting Harvesting fruits and friends from your neighborhood community Jesse is a sixth-generation Arizona native. His great-grandfather owned and operated a farm in Tempe, AZ, and Jesse’s mother’s side comes from farming heritage in Iowa, so he has been surrounded by gardens, fruit trees, and fresh produce his entire life. He and his wife had a townhouse where they started growing food by converting the lawn area in the back into a little 5ft square garden. Then, after moving and expanding to a larger area with more garden space, he noticed he physically felt better after eating home-grown produce. He travels a lot for work and is constantly on airplanes with recirculated air, but he credits having never come home with “travel crud” to his healthier, home-grown eating style. Jesse lives in the Northwest valley of Phoenix Arizona with his wife Heather, their 2 sons, and is expecting twin daughters due early 2017. IN THIS PODCAST: An inspiring young father Jesse shares his story with Greg about how he has started harvesting the unwanted fruit from his neighbor’s front yard and is developing a stronger community as well. Jesse’s story is delightful, and uplifting as he and his young son collect fruit, make jellies, and bring the harvest back to share. He shares how he started and it is not as hard as you might think. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/26/jesse-sparks/ for show notes and links.
Thu, November 24, 2016
Vanessa Simkins on Juicing Deliciously
161: Vanessa Simkins on Juicing Deliciously Connecting healthy and flavorful juicing combinations for health and a good diet Vanessa, is the founder of AllAboutJuicing.com: a website and newsletter serving up fresh, tested juicing advice for getting a hot body, glowing skin, and lifelong health through a straw. She is also the founder of Vanessa’s Juice Club and the author of the Juice Lover’s Big Book of Juices: 425 recipes for super nutritious and crazy delicious juices. Her newsletters, products and site reach over a quarter-million readers each month – a veritable army, inspired to juice for better health. A juicing trendsetter known for her inventive and tasty juice recipes, Vanessa has an undying thirst for connecting people back to what makes them healthy, one drink at a time. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg finds many connections with Vanessa as she shares why she started juicing and why she runs her own business helping others learn about juicing. Vanessa tells about how she got started with her blog and her recipe book. She also tells about her love for mixing juices blends, and how she can serve up delicious drink combinations even from some normally challenging ingredient flavors. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/24/vanessa-simkins/ for show notes and links.
Tue, November 22, 2016
Jim Loomis on Lifestyle Medicine
160: Jim Loomis on Lifestyle Medicine Connecting a plant-based diet and lifestyle to positive health benefits Jim Loomis Jr., M.D., M.B.A., received his medical degree from the University of Arkansas, where he was elected to the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and graduated with honors. He subsequently completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at Barnes Hospital/ Washington University in St. Louis, MO. and received an M.B.A. from the Olin School of Business at Washington University. Jim is the medical director at the Barnard Medical Center in Washington DC. He is board certified in internal medicine and has also completed the certification program in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. Before coming to the Barnard Medical Center in Washington, DC, Jim practiced internal medicine and was the director of prevention and wellness at St. Luke’s Hospital in St. Louis. Jim is on the clinical faculty of the department of internal medicine at Washington University School of Medicine and also serves on the board of directors of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. When not practicing medicine, Jim enjoys reading history books, cooking, and teaching plant-based cooking classes. He also enjoys running, biking, and swimming, and has completed numerous half marathons, marathons, and triathlons. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks to a Doctor that he met a few months back. Dr. Jim is fabulous at bringing the complexities of healthy eating to simple and memorable analogies. Transitioning from a standard American diet to a plant based one to improve health and vitality is something that Dr. Jim can talk about because he did just that. He was one of the worst kind of patients because he already knew the side effects of the meds he was prescribed, and his search for a healthier lifestyle is now what he shares with others. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/22/james-loomis/ for show notes and links.
Sat, November 19, 2016
Brandon Peterman on Natural Building
159: Brandon Peterman on Natural Building Constructing buildings and materials from locally sourced ingredients Brandon grew up in Southern California and went to University of Southern California Riverside. Always feeling a connection to nature, he has been living on homesteads in the woods for the past four years and has been actively doing natural building for the past three years. He has participated in the building of over two dozen natural structures from cottages to bread ovens, garden walls, to covered benches and other homestead based structures. His goal is to create a fully functioning working farm with a gardening education program and a year-round school program. After his own apprenticeship, Brandon joined Kirk Mobert at the Sundog School of Natural Building which is based on 50 acres in Gualala, California. The school offers classes and on a rotating basis and apprenticeships in natural building. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets to hear about a new topic on the podcast when he chats with Brandon who shares the basics about Natural Building. A life-long lover of the outdoors, Brandon tells how he found what he had been looking for in a building process that has been around for many centuries. This process is one that embodies several permaculture principles and has many time-tested examples existing around the world. Brandon tells about this method and the school that offers apprentice positions. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/19/brandon-peterman/ for show notes and links.
Thu, November 17, 2016
Andrew Millison on Scaling up Permaculture
158: Andrew Millison on Scaling up Permaculture Sharing a regenerative design system and the medicine our planet needs. Andrew has been studying, teaching and practicing permaculture since he took his first design course in 1996. He began teaching permaculture design at the college level in 2001 and has been an instructor at Oregon State University in the Horticulture Department since 2009. Andrew currently teaches the Permaculture Design Course at OSU on campus and online. Andrew first learned permaculture design in the drylands of Arizona, where he studied for his undergraduate and master's degrees at Prescott College focusing on rainwater harvesting, greywater systems and desert agriculture. In recent years, his focus has been more on broad scale farm planning, permaculture housing developments and obtaining water rights. In 2015 he founded Permaculture Design International, a collaborative design firm that works on large-scale global projects. And, he runs a free Intro to Permaculture course that has had over 20,000 enrollments to date. IN THIS PODCAST: Andrew catches up with Greg and brings him up to speed on what he has done since they took a permaculture class together 20 years ago. This is an inspiring and EPIC story of someone who was ready to take permaculture to the next level and beyond. The ultimate part of this adventure is that there is room for others to join in an online aspect. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/17/andrew-millison/ for show notes and links.
Tue, November 15, 2016
Elena Ortiz on Nature Education for Adults
Elena Ortiz on Nature Education for Adults Making connections to nature through working in a college garden. Elena has been teaching with the Phoenix College Biosciences Department in the Maricopa Community College System for eleven years. She has taught environmental biology and general biology for non-majors. Her newest class is Plants and Society , a basic botany course for non-majors. As part of teaching this class, she brings her personal interest for gardening into the classroom. She says the garden is a great place to introduce, or reintroduce, students to nature and ecology. Elena has a PhD in Plant Biology from ASU, a Master of Science in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico, and a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of California at Santa Cruz. Her interests in ecology and gardening were both heavily influenced by her maternal grandfather who was a family doctor and gentleman farmer in Puerto Rico who retired on his farm. As a young girl, she would follow him around as he would spend the day working on projects, in his garden and orchid collection, or his farm. She credits him for most of the knowledge of the natural history of Puerto Rico that she still remembers today. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with an old college friend who is now teaching botany at Phoenix College. Elena shares what she is doing now and how she has brought her classrooms outdoors and into the garden. She describes how she believes it is important to make a connection with nature right outside your door, and how some of her students are surprised how easy it is to grow things in the desert. She also depicts how her students make the connections and take ownership of the garden enough that they want to stay working even after the class ends. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/15/elena-ortiz/ for show notes and links.
Sat, November 12, 2016
Keri Fox on SPIN Farming
Keri Fox on SPIN Farming Starting a farming business in an urban area and making it work. Keri grew up on an organic farm in a small Saskatchewan community when organic wasn’t cool or trendy. After feeling like an outcast, and perceiving her parents as “poor,” she decided to pursue a more profitable career. After getting her electrician journeyperson license, she ran an electrical contracting business for 8 years and made good money doing this. However, she felt her business was contributing to the destruction of the planet. Knowing she needed a change, and having recently been introduced to permaculture, she took a leap of faith and sold her business to search for a lifestyle that would help heal the planet. Keri took a series of permaculture based workshops over the next couple of years and eventually found herself in a SPIN farming workshop. Having found what she was looking for, she immediately returned home with a “crazy idea” to farm in the city. The idea got around and she started her new business with veggies in 8 different yards in return for a weekly box of vegetables, and sold the rest at the local farmers market. Now, at the end of 5th growing season, she works 1/3 of an acre including 7 outdoor garden spaces, one hoop house style greenhouse and an indoor micro-green operation, offers a salad box subscription that delivers to 9 restaurants as well as the weekly farmers market. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks to Keri, a former electrician who quit to be a farmer because it was better for the planet. She tells why she left her successful business to run a small plot farm, and how she has developed that into quite the impressive and sustainable venture. She describes how she rides her bike from plot to plot, sells to restaurants and farmers markets, and has a salad box subscription. Farming with little-to-no land of your own can work, and she proves it in her story. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/12/keri-fox/ for show notes and links.
Thu, November 10, 2016
Lawrence Parkhill of the Veteran Farmers of America
155: Lawrence Parkhill of the Veteran Farmers of America Helping our returning veterans heal through farming and agriculture. Lawrence signed up for the infantry at age 16 when the towers fell, and left at age 18 to go to Camp Pendleton. He was deployed twice to Iraq with India Company, Third Battalion, First Marines. Lawrence extended his contract by six months or so to deploy with the Marine Corps Forces, Special Operations Command (MARSOC) to Afghanistan. He has a total of five year’s active duty as a machine gunner and got out as E5 (sergeant) with two Purple Hearts, and a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with V device for valor. Lawrence is the President and Co-Founder of Veteran Farmers of America. He is also the National Maintenance Support Manager at Mission Produce in Oxnard where he lives. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg is honored to talk to Sargent Lawrence Parkhill who shares his story of how he founded a new non-profit which is helping veterans reintegrate into non-combat life with jobs in agriculture. Veteran Farmers of America is working with returning servicemen and women to find internships and jobs in various aspects of the agriculture industry. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/10/lawrence-parkhill/ for show notes and links.
Wed, November 09, 2016
Julian Awad on Backyard Riches and SPIN Farming
Julian Awad on Backyard Riches and SPIN Farming Taking a Small Plot and with Intensive Farming generate income. Julian experienced entrepreneurship early at the age of 12 when he first started importing candy from Singapore to Malaysia where his family was living at the time. At 19 he started his first company in real estate. Since then, his interest for business and social responsibility has taken him from refugee trips in Sumatra, Indonesia to driving new innovative genetic risk assessments. It was while working with Google on marketing and advertising, that Julian realized the need for marketing agencies which focused on a Return On Investment or were performance oriented. Eventually he formed JSA Interactive Inc. to meet the growing demand for his marketing and commercialization services. Julian has over 15 years of professional experience in marketing, strategic planning, project management, and internet technologies. He also has 10 years of entrepreneurial experience in marketing companies, launching consumer focused internet startups, and financing small businesses. He states his greatest achievements are finding and marrying his wife/best friend and having his new son and twin daughters. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg talks to Julian Awad of Backyard Riches, who breaks down some of the intricacies of turning a backyard plot into a profitable urban farm business. As an entrepreneur who has figured out how to turn ideas into businesses, Julian describes the models that he offers to help urban farmers become successful in a sustainable way. The method of Small Plot Intensive Farming is the new way of being a farmer – especially in urban areas. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/08/julian-awad/ for show notes and links.
Sat, November 05, 2016
Forest Shomer on Seeds
Forest started urban farming in 1969 in Berkeley, California. Through the People’s Park Movement, he was launched into gardening and got the basic training and motivation for becoming a seedman. He has been a full time, independent, professions seed provider since 1972 and has owned, led, or helped launch at least four seed companies, and founded the nonprofit Abundant Life Seed Foundation which produced and distributed up to 600 types of open-pollinated vegetable, herb and flower seeds Since 1974 Forest has been giving workshops on seed saving and the importance of genetic diversity, and was the keynote speaker for the 2012 Northwest Permaculture Convergence and, also the Regenerations Seed and Plant Exchange in Hawaii. Forest had a radio show for a couple of years with 30 minute interviews featuring a variety of people including many permaculturists. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg is enthralled by the story telling of Forest who brings us along on the adventures of a seedman. Forest felt the pull of his calling in the late 1960’s and has been actively gardening and harvesting seeds ever since. Moving through a few seed company projects over the years, he has also harvested skills, friends, experiences, and an appreciation for the importance of native seeds. With so much experienced focused on the tiny seeds that are essential to all gardeners and farmers, Forest’s story connects with everyone in one way or another. Listen in and harvest your own kernels to save. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/05/forest-shomer/ for show notes and links. Go to www.urbanfarm.org/blog/podcast/ to see our list of podcast and to sign up for weekly updates.
Thu, November 03, 2016
Matt Powers on Regenerative Living
Making a difference through social permaculture and gardening. Matt is an experienced teacher, family guy, author, consultant, farmer, seed saver, plant breeder, musician, blogger, & permaculturist. He frequently speaks at conferences, colleges, schools, and events about permaculture and education. Applying his years of working as a teacher writing curriculum from scratch using online classrooms, Matt has opened an online program to accompany his textbook series The Permaculture Student. Focused on starting resilient small businesses and homesteads from scratch, students of all ages and families learn through weekly collections of videos, worksheets, coloring pages, projects, activities, & critical thinking with teacher's guides, recipes, plant focus, seed saving, & Q&A. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets another permaculture enthusiast in Matt, who after a significant wake-up call regarding the health of his wife decided to pursue a healthier lifestyle for him and his family. This decision led him on the path to education and gardening which he combined with a new understanding of regenerative design to become an activist of permaculture education. Now he tells how he is bringing permaculture teachings to new areas and students. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/03/matt-powers/ for show notes and links.
Tue, November 01, 2016
Saskia Esslinger on Teaching Gardening
Saskia is a passionate gardener who believes everyone can grow some of their own food. She is trained in Permaculture, Environmental Science, and Regenerative Entrepreneurship. After turning a house in Anchorage, Alaska into an abundant urban homestead, she created a successful business teaching others how to garden. She recently turned her hands-on food gardening course into a curriculum and manual to help others teach gardening in their own communities. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets Saskia, a young woman who was motivated enough to transform her life and career to encompass the ideals of permaculture. However, she was not happy just making her own garden, Saskia has a goal of having everyone or every yard have the chance to garden. So as she started making the changes to a gardening lifestyle she was determined to find a way to make a living with this new mode of living. She has done this partly by helping others become teachers of gardening in their own areas. Here she explains how she is preparing her army of educators and how they can make a living teaching others how to garden. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/11/01/saskia-esslinger/ for show notes and links.
Sat, October 29, 2016
Karine Kuchipudi on Going Vegan
Transitioning to a plant based diet for a healthy lifestyle. Karine was once an extreme carnivore and she happily ate sweetbreads, blood pudding, lots of meats including game, and all kinds of raw meats. Food was her life. She had a catering business and organized dinner parties that would have made a vegan faint. Life was spent in the kitchen, and life was good. Then she embarked on her vegan journey just over year ago to combat significant skin issues. She started by first eating fruits and vegetables in large quantities but she struggled from low energy levels. Then she tried a paleo diet which did not work out for her, so she started educating herself about plant-based protein. Education was the key to her success, and two pillars of veganism became important to her: mercy for animals, and protection of the environment. Grains, seeds, and nuts are now the biggest part of her diet while she is striving to achieve a complete plant-based diet. She loves whole and natural ingredients, and wants to show others how a vegan diet can be fun, easy, and delicious! IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets to chat with new friend Karine who has a mission to help others cook delicious vegan meals. Karine shares her experience of going vegan and explains why she was she was motivated to make that change. With her experience running a catering business, it makes sense that cooking would be a passion that continues even with a dramatic lifestyle change. She is committed to helping others by sharing her journey and sharing many tasty and healthy vegan recipes and she explains why this is so important to her. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/29/karine-kuchipudi/ for show notes and links.
Thu, October 27, 2016
Sean Quinn on Vertical Farming
Considering design in architecture and it’s impact on urban agriculture. Sean complements his design practice with research in green building technologies including, among other things, urban and vertical agriculture. Sean is a Lecturer at Danube University Krems, Austria, was an Assistant Professor at the University of Hong Kong, and is a frequent lecturer at international universities and conferences. For the past several years, Sean has led research in Urban & Vertical Farming, and developed a prominent exhibition on urban ecology and biomimicry at the Hong Kong-Shezhen Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism. His research has been presented to key stakeholders at the United Nations, as well as for multiple international governments, diplomatic, private, and non-profit organizations. Sean believes that urban agriculture can provide a multi-faceted solution to the health and resilience of cities while catalyzing community and economic growth. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets to interview Sean Quinn, who works to meld sustainable architectural design with urban agriculture for one of the largest global design firms. Sean talks about how this field has changed over the years and is tackling the issues of food systems and just connection to nature in highly urban landscapes like Honk Kong and San Francisco. Just by focusing on these issues, he has developed a sincere passion for designs that build solutions combining flora and human interaction. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/27/sean-quinn/ for show notes and links.
Tue, October 25, 2016
Michael Ableman on Street Farms
Growing Food, Jobs, and Hope on the Urban Frontier Michael Ableman, the cofounder and director of Sole Food Street Farms, is one of the early visionaries of the urban agriculture movement. He has created high-profile urban farms in Watts, California; Goleta, California; and Vancouver, British Columbia. Michael has also worked on and advised dozens of similar projects throughout North America and the Caribbean, and he is the founder of the nonprofit Center for Urban Agriculture. His newest book is called Street Farm: Growing Food, Jobs, and Hope on the Urban Frontier and is out now by Chelsea Green Publishing. Michael lives and farms at the 120-acre Foxglove Farm on Salt Spring Island in British Columbia. IN THIS PODCAST: This is an interview that Greg has wanted to do since before he even started the podcasts. A epic urban farming project more than a decade ago inspired him greatly, and now Michael brings Greg up to date with his Street Farm project he’s been working on for the past several years and it is just as epic and inspiring. With a natural ease, he tells us the story of an urban farm that is situated in the heart of one of the worst parts of a large city and is farmed by a group of the lost and disenfranchised. This project takes the hopeless and the discarded, plants them on the unwanted and unworthy land with a box and some soil, and magic happens. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/25/michael-ableman/ for show notes and links.
Sat, October 22, 2016
Shawn and Beth Dougherty on Farmsteading
Utilizing managed intensive grazing for maximum benefit for land and animals Shawn and Beth have been farming together since the 1980’s, for the last twenty years in eastern Ohio, where they manage 24 acres 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 Publishing 2016. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg is thoroughly impressed with the transformational successes of Shawn and Beth on their “really trashy” plot of land to the diverse, beautiful, and healthy pasture they now enjoy. They tell their story of how they bought what they could afford were prompted to do research and replicate the methods of grazing that preceded the modern day mass production farms. They explain why managed grazing is important and so beneficial to both the animals and the land they occupy. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/22/shawn-and-beth-dougherty/ for show notes and links.
Thu, October 20, 2016
Robert Colangelo on Indoor Vertical Farming
Robert is a scientist, author, and environmental entrepreneur who founded several leading market-based environmental concerns. Currently he serves as host of Green Sense Radio Show and Founding Farmer/CEO of Green Sense Farms. Robert is recognized as a national expert and an authoritative source on brownfield redevelopment, sustainability and indoor vertical farming. He is the author of several books and numerous reports and articles on the subjects. He has appeared on national and local TV and radio programs, been quoted in national and local newspapers and has testified in congress in support of environmental legislation. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets to chat with Robert, an environmental entrepreneur who is transforming indoor farming and finding economic solutions in farming. Robert has been seeking out and creating solutions for environmental issues for many years and this has led him to the business he has now which is producing crops year-round. He also talks more about his radio show and introduces the Equity Crowd Funding project he is currently working on and how to find more about it. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/20/robert-colangelo/ for show notes and links.
Tue, October 18, 2016
Storm Kirk on Community and Gardening
Storm lives on the South Fork of the Cosumnes River in Northern California with her husband Allen and her youngest child Savannah. She is the founder of “Wings on the Wind Healing Arts Center and Sanctuary.” The center is located on her organic farm, where they raise food, herbs, alpacas, and chickens. She has a bachelor degree in Metaphysical Science, is an ordained minister, a natural health practitioner, artist, author, herbalist, and Reiki Master. She has certifications in Advanced Pastoral Psychology, Herbology, Reflexology, Acupressure, Crystal Healing, Vibrational Healing, Flower Essences, and Survival Skills. She authored the book “A Pocket Full of Angels” and self-published in 2014. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg meets another kindred spirit in Storm with her connection to gardening, making a difference in the community, trusting in nature, and making a choice to be happy every day. Storm shares her story of how she started gardening with no skills or experience and is now the founder of a very special place for healing and learning. Storm worked to build a connection in her community so that even the front entrance evokes wonder and peace. Her organic gardens are central to her program teaching self-sustainability and her animals have many duties including helping guests heal. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/18/storm-kirk/ for show notes and links.
Sat, October 15, 2016
Marianne West on Using Permaculture at Home
Marianne is the co-host/co-producer of the Sustainable Living Podcast, the co-organizer of the San Diego Permaculture Meet up group and the founder and organizer of the TOP Organic Edibles Garden Club. Top stands for Transition, Organic and Permaculture. She also is a wife, mother and grandmother who is very much involved in the life of her 3 grandchildren. Marianne teaches Yoga and other subjects and keeps working on developing her writerly self. IN THIS PODCAST: Marianne shares her story and motivations that have moved her to transform her 1/3 acre into a food forest. She shares her passion for permaculture with Greg and tells him how she has really put to use the water harvesting techniques she has learned. She explains how her upbringing in postwar Germany truly gave her a different perspective on nature and food, and now that she lives in an area that has a year round growing season as well as drought conditions she is really putting all her experience and learning to good use. She tells of the many techniques she is using to harvest water, and how she is trying to make a difference in her community. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/15/marianne-west/ for show notes and links.
Thu, October 13, 2016
Cara Dafforn on Dehydrating the Urban Farm
Cara is passionate about the tradition of supper and takes Civil War history very seriously; So it made sense for her to couple her food passion with membership in MidStates Living History Association. In the tradition of Dutch oven cooking during the civil war, “a supper was served at four o’clock in the afternoon, a good plain and substantial meal, with nothing fanciful” according to Goedy’s Magazine, dated 1863. As a living historian, and owner of U-Relish Farm, Cara enjoys guiding others on low cost ways to store your urban farm harvest and offers secrets from the “Apothecara”. N THIS PODCAST: We venture back in time with Cara to learn how the women homesteaders of the mid 1800’s cooked, gardened, nurtured, and survived during the trials of the Civil War. She explains to Greg that as a history buff she was intrigued enough to try to replicate many of the processes in use during the time period of when the Civil War directly affected her community. She does not hold back as she taught herself how to do many of the period’s permaculture type processes and she shares some of those tips in this podcast. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/13/cara-dafforn/ for show notes and links.
Tue, October 11, 2016
Craig Jenkins-Sutton on Tree Selection and Planting
Craig’s love of the landscape was a natural progression of his upbringing in central Minnesota where he grew up at a youth camp. When he attended college in Chicago, he maintained his connection with the outdoors which he soon realized his career path needed to encompass. In a confluence of events, Craig was hired as the Operations Manager at Chicago Christian Industrial League managing the landscaping job training program. Most of the landscaping contracts were with the city of Chicago where they maintained many of the city’s green spaces, median strips and public schools. Eventually, Craig joined D. Foley Landscape as Construction Manager in Massachusetts where he continued to fine tune his plant knowledge, installation skills, and design esthetic. It was here that the vision of an urban landscaping business was formed and in early spring of 2003, he returned to Chicago to start Topiarius. Craig’s first landscaping job was completed out of the back of his Ford Focus wagon using 5 gallon buckets and a shovel. Originally, during the landscape season they hired local college students to help out with the labor; however, now they have gone from a 2½ employee operation to an 11-person operation with an office and landscaping yard on the west side of the Chicago. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with Craig, a landscaping artist who bring his dedication for a job well done to ensure his customers get long lasting value. With Craig’s natural understanding of basic permaculture techniques, he shares how he has developed a process for his employees to observe and adjust based on those observations. And with years of experience Craig also has a lot to share about best practices for planting trees of all kinds. There are many important tips and techniques discussed that will help anyone who is getting ready to plant in their yards. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/11/craig-jenkins-sutton/ for show notes and links.
Sat, October 08, 2016
Sherrie Pelsma on Pollinator Parkways
Sherrie Pelsma on Pollinator Parkways. Bolstering pollinators in urban spaces and expanding safe habitats. Sherrie grew up on the rural Oregon Coast before moving to Portland to finish her degree. She has spent the last 10 years in Community Education, and runs a program where participants learn learn Do-It-Yourself skills to make homes safer and more energy efficient. As an environmentalist who loves macro photography, she took a special interest in pollinators and other insects which blossomed into the love that drove the founding of Pollinator Parkways. IN THIS PODCAST: Sherrie shares her passion for the bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other animals that serve such a vital purpose in the lifecycles of plants including the food we rely on every day. Greg gets a chance to talk to her about how a simple interest grew into a passion and how she has turned that into a project that is truly making a difference in her community. Sherrie is inspiring as she explains what she is doing to extend habitats and at the same time educating community members about pollinators. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/08/sherrie-pelsma/ for show notes and links.
Thu, October 06, 2016
Dr. Jack Wolfson on the Paleo Diet and Heart Health
Jack Wolfson D.O., F.A.C.C., is a board certified cardiologist who uses nutrition and supplements to prevent and treat disease. After ten years performing angiograms, pacemakers, and other cardiac procedures, Dr. Wolfson started Wolfson Integrative Cardiology in 2012 to offer patients the ultimate in holistic heart care. Raised in Chicago, he attended Midwestern University for his D.O. degree and completed a 3 year Internal Medicine residency and 3 year cardiology fellowship. He was selected as the chief fellow of his class. Together with his wife, Dr. Heather Wolfson DC, they are The Drs. Wolfson. Their website TheDrsWolfson.com is an excellent resource for holistic health and lifestyle information. The Drs. Wolfson have two beautiful boys who were born at home, nursed for over 3 years, and they are still co-sleeping. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg chats with Dr. Jack about the paleo diet and how it affects heart health. Dr. Jack shares why he changed the way he practices cardiology and what he has learned about eating natural foods. He explains more about how important it is to remove pollutants, improve nutrition, and even how eliminating gluten can make a difference in 24 hours. Greg asks many of the questions that come up when you are learning about the paleo diet and Dr. Jack helps make it a lot easier to understand why it works. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/06/jack-wolfson/ for show notes and links.
Tue, October 04, 2016
Whitney Cohen on Garden Based Education
Whitney is a teacher, trainer, and author with tremendous commitment to, and expertise in, inquiry- and place-based education; strategies for engaging diverse learners; school gardens; and the intersection between environmental education and public schools. She is the Education Director of Life Lab and a lecturer at UC Santa Cruz. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg is excited and a bit envious of the kids who have participated in the natural world learning experiences explained by the Whitney in this podcast. She paints a beautiful picture of the resources of Life Lab’s gardens and how the programs offer many unique and awesome natural world laboratories for kids to learn. Their discussion ventures into the world of school funding and how garden based education can fill multiple needs of the schools, yet seems to on budget cutting blocks often. Life Lab has developed a potential resource for school interested in keeping a natural world option in their curriculums and Whitney explains how they hope to share this program nationally. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/04/whitney-cohen/ for show notes and links.
Sat, October 01, 2016
Lyn Harwell on Community Cafes and Kitchens.
Today's specials include healthy foods, great meals, dignity, education and community. A childhood spent on a farm in northeast Ohio shaped Lyn’s views on community and how neighbors can help and support one another through sharing food and resources. He believes this is a forgotten way of living in America. Thirty-plus years spent as a chef in world-class restaurants taught Lyn the importance of creating beautiful food for people to enjoy and gather together to share. In recent years, he spent time helping others open community kitchens and supporting local sustainability. This led him to open Seeds Community Café in September 2013. As a nonprofit that is based on a “pay it forward” model, Seeds’ patrons can partake of healthy, nutritious, locally-sourced and creatively crafted meals, regardless of their ability to pay. Lyn is a huge supporter of Community Cafes, Kitchens and local gardens as a Social Enterprise and way of life. He believes this concept of sharing local great food around a community table can change the world we live in by impacting food insecurity and building community in our own neighborhoods! It also enhances our local economies. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg takes the time to get to know Lyn and is moved by his persistence and dedication to making a difference in his community. Lyn tells how he has always been doing something with food, and how he has worked with some well-known chefs over the years until he was finally able to open his own very special restaurant. With an idea in his head about a café where people pay what they think the meal is worth, and those who can’t pay have a chance to work off the meal through service, Lyn worked until he got enough support to open the doors to this very epic, community centric, aptly named, Seeds Community Café. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/10/01/lyn-harwell/ for show notes and links.
Thu, September 29, 2016
Heather Grove on Fleet Farming
Heather co-created Stetson University’s garden and farmers market and served as the founding Community Director of Orlando's East End Market. After interning with the USDA, researching food systems in Central Florida and abroad, Heather returned to her hometown to help rebuild Orlando’s local food system in 2011, where she helped bring Fleet Farming to life. She now works on sustainable agriculture and rural development projects abroad while consulting new branches of Fleet Farming around the world. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg gets a chance to meet Heather who is leading a transformative new community farming program called Fleet Farming. You might have heard about the new idea of community gardening through donated front lawns and volunteers traveling on bikes to farm the plots. Heather explains how the program was created and how far it has expanded at this point. It all started with a brainstorming event looking to help localize the food system, and it now is to be replicated in cities across the United States and around the world. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/29/heather-grove/ for show notes and links.
Tue, September 27, 2016
Tim Diebel, from Pastor to Farmer
Tim grew up in West Texas, the younger son of a local church pastor and his Christian educator wife. After graduating from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX with a BFA in speech communications, he went on to seminary, graduating with a Master of Divinity degree. After graduating, he served churches in Texas communities in Houston, Athens and Lufkin; and then he moved to a historic urban congregation adjacent to Drake University in Iowa. During the course of that 19-year ministry, Tim became captivated by questions about food, our global food system, and the need for a strengthened circle of memory around how to grow food on simpler terms. So, at 55 years of age, he quit his job and with his wife moved to a 10-acre farmstead they’ve named “Taproot Garden” located south of Des Moines where they cultivate a large garden and raise laying hens – an enterprise he refers to as a writing project with an outdoor classroom. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg interviews Tim and finds out what motivated Tim and his wife to move to the country and start focusing on growing food through simple techniques some of which are those which were used a couple generations back. Through experimentation, they have increased their harvests dramatically, and even Greg is blown away by how many tomatoes they got this year. And there is a great story about a kindergartner's comment after visiting his farm which is awesomely rewarding to any farmer. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/27/tim-diebel/ for show notes and links.
Sat, September 24, 2016
Ruwan Subasinghe & Costas Simoglou on Nanofarms
Ruwan leads product design at Replantable. While earning his Mechanical Engineering degree at Georgia Tech, he machined microfluidic devices and instructed students in the campus machine shop. He has used this fabrication knowledge to bring a hands-on design approach to startups like Intuitive Pickups as well as larger companies like Verizon Telematics. Costas is the director of the Center of Innovation for Energy Technology, where his mission is to help Georgia’s companies accelerate the development of new products, ideas and business models in the Energy ecosystem and maintain the State of Georgia’s leadership position in the fields of energy generation, transmission, distribution, storage and consumption. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg does a double interview with Ruwan, one of the inventors of a new appliance that grows food indoors, and Costas, the director of the Center that that helped bring the idea to the fruition. Ruwan shares the genesis story of the Nanofarm from Replantable and tells how they considered the purpose and function of soil as a growing medium. Costas explains the role of his agency and even how they were able to beta test the machines with the help of some high school classes in Georgia. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/24/ruwan-and-costas/ for show notes and links.
Thu, September 22, 2016
Cecilia Nedelco on Growing Food Organically
Cecilia is a Master Gardner, permaculturist, seed saver, a dowser and an herbalist. Gardening has been a passion all her life. She is the founder and owner of “Cecilia’s Garden” and has transformed her residence into an urban farm utilizing the front & back yards. Her garden is a highly producing, self-sufficient sanctuary specializing in vegetables, fruit and eggs. All of her produce is grown beyond organics – meaning she doesn’t use any of the approved 244 organic chemicals one can use and still be called organic. Cecilia’s produce is sold at local farmer’s markets and she also supplies produce for a local restaurant that supports locally grown veggies. The sense of community is strong in her neighborhood with neighbors dropping in to pick-up eggs, veggies, or fruit, or just for the opportunity to visit and enjoy the serenity of “Cecilia’s Garden.” IN THIS PODCAST: Cecilia opens up with Greg and shares her passion about…growing food as naturally as possible. Her garden is a local marvel with layers upon layers of permaculture techniques in use. Even though they have known each other for years there is still many new things that Greg learns about Cecilia, including her epic number of compost bins. Her thirst for knowledge is apparent and her willingness to put into action the nature based education she has gained over the years through various courses and sources is helping her produce dynamic results. Go to our Podcast page at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/22/cecilia-nedelko/ to find photos, links, and more information on this podcast.
Tue, September 20, 2016
Simon Huntley on Marketing a Small Farm Online
Simon grew up on a small farm in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania before pursuing a degree in Information Sciences and Technology at Penn State University. Soon after college, Simon helped a long-time western Colorado fruit farmer expand his operation to include vegetable production and a CSA program. The project grew to serve five area farmers markets and a 130-member CSA. During his tenure at the farm, Simon took advantage of his education in information technology to develop a highly interactive website for the CSA. In retrospect, this website was a prototype for what Small Farm Central would eventually become. After leaving the farm in the Fall of 2006, Simon started Small Farm Central with a core group of 10 farmers from across the country. In four years, Small Farm Central has grown to serve more than 1000 farmers (as of October 2015) across the U.S. and Canada. Outside of Small Farm Central, Simon is kept active by his two sons, Eliot (age 4) and Theo (age 1). He enjoys food experimentation projects like beer making, fermenting various vegetables, and whatever other challenges come up. The 70 acre family farm is still in the family, so there is a chance of returning to growing food some day! IN THIS PODCAST: Simon shares his story with Greg about how he went from avoiding the farm as a kid, to now using his technology skills to help farmers promote their farms online. Farmers who are just starting out with a small farm, are the people that Simon is focusing on helping and he shares what some of the techniques and tools he has developed specifically for this unique market. With this they also discuss the differences between social media and email marketing. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/20/simon-huntley/ for show notes and links.
Sat, September 17, 2016
Denise Stalder on Growing Food to Support Retirement
Denise is a grandmother of eight who was forced into retirement from a management position at the age of 57. She and her husband rented a community garden plot of 1000 square feet to save money by supplementing their food and decided they could try to live on a lot less money since life was nicer without her working a 50-60 hour work week. Eventually they bought an old farmhouse on 1.7 acres 1-hour north of the city in southern Ontario, Canada and have developed raised beds, grow a good amount of their own produce and are starting with chickens this year. They have found this has been a wonderful retirement solution for them. It has been a way to reduce expenses and yet create a lifestyle that is healthy, happy, and a wonderful example for their grandchildren who are learning all about where food comes from. IN THIS PODCAST: Denise tells Greg how one day she was unexpectedly retired and needed to start saving money. After getting inspiration from a walk near a farmers’ market, she and her husband started with a small plot in a community garden and gained the confidence in what she could grow herself. A short time later they left that garden and moved to a larger property. Greg is moved by her story of her grandkids getting food from the garden. Then they share tips and suggestions on raising chickens. Denise has moved to the point of getting 60% of her food from her garden with a little from the farmers market. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/17/denise-stalder/ for show notes
Thu, September 15, 2016
Kami McBride on Culinary Herbs for Health
Kami, author of The Herbal Kitchen , has spent the past 25 years helping people grow and use herbs so they can be more self-reliant in their health care needs. She is the creator of Herbal Kitchen Remedy Solutions, an online course that demystifies the world of herbal medicine and empowers people to use their garden for herbal self-care in the home to prevent illness and take care of common ailments. Kami has developed and taught herbal curriculum for the Complimentary and Alternative Medicine Department at University of California, San Francisco School of Nursing and the Integrative Health Master’s Degree Program at California Institute of Integral Studies. She has helped thousands of families to use herbs and natural remedies for their self-care to avoid the damaging effects of medications when not needed. She is dedicated to inspiring the Home Wellness Revolution where the use of home herbal remedies is a normal part of our cultural heritage IN THIS PODCAST: Kami joins Greg for an informative discussion on the value of herbs in our kitchens and our diets. She talks about how the garden and the spice rack are of central importance to the economy and health of a household. And she gives some great suggestions on how to use some common key herbs for improving and maintaining health. In addition, we have links to a free workbook with recipe instructions on how to use sage for health and wellness. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/15/kami-mcbride/ for show notes and links.
Tue, September 13, 2016
Catherine Crowley is The Herb Lady
Catherine, The Herb Lady, Crowley is a self-taught, hands in the dirt, Urban Farmer who experiments and researches constantly for new and interesting edibles and old favorites. Catherine was given the nickname "The Herb Lady" when vendors and then customers at farmers markets would say "go ask the herb lady" for questions on herbs. It stuck. Catherine has taught classes at various locations both private and public. She currently blogs and writes an irregular internet newsletter on greening, gardening and cooking in the Valley of the Sun and also participates in the Mesa Farmers Market. IN THIS PODCAST: Catherine shares with Greg some of her tricks that she has figured out for growing herbs in her garden in Phoenix. She explains how she learned about new herbs by asking her farmers market customers about their heritage, and how she experimented to expand her knowledge and skills. She talks about some of her favorites including nasturtium, stevia and Syrian oregano. She teaches Greg how to pick herbs for the best enjoyment and how to make a personal blend. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/13/catherine-crowley/ for show notes and links.
Sat, September 10, 2016
Ping Honzay on Garden Based Education Resources
Ping Honzay is currently Member Programs Associate for the American Horticultural Society (AHS), where she coordinates national garden programs including the annual National Children & Youth Garden Symposium for educators and others who work to connect kids with plants and the natural world. She has an M.S. in Natural Resources with a focus in environmental education, and has worked on a variety of organic farms and garden projects around the country. When not in the office at AHS she enjoys keeping bees at River Farm, the AHS’s garden headquarters outside of Washington, DC. Founded in 1922, the American Horticultural Society (AHS) is one of the oldest national gardening organizations in the country. AHS works towards its mission of “Making America a Nation of Gardeners, a Land of Gardens” by providing educational resources such as its award-winning magazine The American Gardener , programming and events both nationally and locally at its River Farm headquarters in Alexandria, VA, recognizing outstanding gardening practices through its awards program, and more. IN THIS PODCAST: Ping and Greg discuss the importance of teaching youth to garden. They compare notes about their garden experiences with kids and the miracles the kids believe are happening. She shares her story of how she got started in working with kids helping them get excited about gardening and then explains about the resources of the AHS' Annual National Children & Youth Garden Symposium. She also introduces the Great American Gardeners Awards Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/10/ping-honzay/ for show notes and links.
Fri, September 09, 2016
Ryan Leach on Pursuing Self-sustenance on One Acre
Ryan is a Golf Course Superintendent by profession, and a homesteader by passion. He and his wife own the Live Simply, Live Richly Farm. His wife of four years works from home raising their two small children and supporting his farming addiction. They are pursuing a simpler, more natural, God-Centered lifestyle in west-central Ohio on their one-acre homestead. IN THIS PODCAST: Ryan tells Greg why he and his wife decide to start growing their own food and how that has developed into a virtually self-sustained homestead for his young family. Ryan explains about how he transformed his greenhouse, do their own canning and even raise their own meat birds so that they know exactly what they are eating. His story is one that is sure hit home for our listeners in one way or another. Greg liked it so much that Ryan is one of our Featured Farmers! Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/06/ryan-leach/ for show notes and links.
Thu, September 08, 2016
David Bainbridge on Gardening with Less Water
David grew up in the West in a small town working in the family toy factory and enjoying the rivers, mountains and sage covered hills. After earning his BA in Earth Sciences at UC San Diego in 1970, he headed to UC Davis to complete an MS in Ecology in the multidisciplinary Eco-Grad Program. He started a company doing environmental impact analysis, then transitioned to a solar research and design firm, Living Systems, where he worked on community design, passive solar heating and cooling, building codes and solar rights. David’s research on passive solar heating and cooling led him to the California Energy Commission as a solar specialist, where he worked on the passive section of the state Solar Tax Credit program. He then established the Passive Solar Institute to continue research, education, and consulting on solar design and energy conservation. He worked in straw bale building systems and helped complete The Straw Bale House in 1994. He returned to academia and worked on desert restoration at UC Riverside and San Diego State University. David’s current research involves micro-irrigation, cool pool design, and true cost accounting. IN THIS PODCAST : David shares his excitement with Greg about time tested techniques on gardening efficiently with less water. David explains some of what he learned over the past several decades researching traditional methods for collecting and using the precious resource in food production as well as in basic landscaping. They discuss the olla method, and how he found it explained in a 2000+ year old textbook. There is something here for anyone who has a responsibility to water a plant. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/08/david-bainbridge/ for show notes and links.
Sat, September 03, 2016
Missy Gable on Understanding Climate Zones
Missy Gable serves as director for the UC Master Gardener Program and co-director for the UC Master Food Preserver program, both statewide programs under University of California’s division of Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR). Missy earned a B.S. Biological Sciences and M.S. in Horticulture and Agronomy from UC Davis. She enjoys sharing her passion for home horticulture, sustainable landscaping and home food preservation with the 6,500+ UC Master Gardener and Food Preserver volunteers and program staff across California. She loves the direct impacts both programs make in local communities, from teaching communities about growing and preserving their own food, reducing food and water waste, improving pollinator habitats, beautifying landscapes, and so much more. IN THIS PODCAST: Missy introduces us to the Master Gardener Program and what the role and purpose of this program, as well as a new Master Food Preserver Program. Then she educates Greg about two distinct climates zones maps and even teaches him a few things he did not know. We learn about weather, climate, microclimates, biomes, zone denial. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/03/missy-gable/ for show notes and links.
Thu, September 01, 2016
Tom Spellman on Backyard Orchard Culture Part 2
Tom has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. Since then he has worked for several different nurseries including Nogales Nursery where he learned landscape design, installation, irrigation and construction. Armstrong Nurseries where he worked with hybridizers, growers and retail on the weekends. La Verne Nursery which specializes in Avocado, Citrus, Sub-Tropical fruit trees and grafted ornamentals, where he was general manager for 20 years. And currently southwestern sales manager for Dave Wilson Nursery. Dave Wilson Nursery is the largest grower of fruit, nut and shade trees in the USA. They grow 10,500,000 plus trees per year and ships wholesale worldwide. Over the past 20 years Tom has also done television, video, radio, written, conducted workshops and lectured on the concepts of Backyard Orchard Culture and fruit growing in general. Tom's dedication and passion for quality fruit growing has taken him to dozens of states in the USA as well as several countries around the globe to consult and lecture on fruit trees and fruit growing concepts. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg and Tom share their passion for fruit trees and talk about some of the resources that home orchard growers have through Dave Willson Nursery and online. Tom talks about some of the learning experiences he has had over the years and a couple of pet projects at the Nursery including an online video library for backyard growers as well as a small orchard experiment with its real world challenges. He also explains about hybridization and how that is different from genetic modification. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/09/01/tom-spellman-2/ for show notes and links.
Tue, August 30, 2016
Tom Spellman on Backyard Orchard Culture Part 1
Tom has been involved in the nursery business since 1973. At that time, he was a freshman in high school and rode his skateboard to work. Since then he has worked for several different nurseries including Nogales Nursery where he learned landscape design, installation, irrigation and construction. Armstrong Nurseries where he worked with hybridizers, growers and retail on the weekends. La Verne Nursery which specializes in Avocado, Citrus, Sub-Tropical fruit trees and grafted ornamentals, where he was general manager for 20 years. And currently southwestern sales manager for Dave Wilson Nursery. Dave Wilson Nursery is the largest grower of fruit, nut and shade trees in the USA. They grow 10,500,000 plus trees per year and ships wholesale worldwide. Over the past 20 years Tom has also done television, video, radio, written, conducted workshops and lectured on the concepts of Backyard Orchard Culture and fruit growing in general. Tom's dedication and passion for quality fruit growing has taken him to dozens of states in the USA as well as several countries around the globe to consult and lecture on fruit trees and fruit growing concepts. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg and Tom share their passion for fruit trees and discuss some tips and suggestions for the backyard, or small orchard, grower. With decades of experience they talk about some important lessons learned about growing fruit trees for personal harvest. They explain the three concepts of backyard orchards and talk about how to help newly planted fruit trees survive the crucial first couple years after planting. Tom also shares some great stories including one about an epic grafting on a sad little lemon tree. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/30/tom-spellman-1/ for show notes and links.
Sat, August 27, 2016
Shelley Peterman-Schwarz on Gardening with Disabilities
Shelley has distinguished herself by meeting the personal and professional challenges of living and working with progressively disabling multiple sclerosis. An award-winning writer, author of 7 books, and professional motivational speaker, Schwarz uses her experiences to inspire and empower audiences to rise above challenges and teaches them how to bloom where they’re planted. Her focus is finding solutions to common everyday problems that people diagnosed with chronic illnesses face. From getting yourself dressed and making meals to tending gardens and continuing recreational activities you enjoy, her philosophy is that a problem is only a situation waiting for a solution. IN THIS PODCAST: Shelley shares an account of life with Greg who recognizes her as having an “epic” story. She has refused to allow her life enjoyment to end with her diagnosis of MS and now works to help others keep living their lives as well. She shares some tips, hacks and encouragement for how to keep doing what you love despite the physical challenges of illness or age. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/27/shelley-peterman-schwarz/ for show notes and links.
Thu, August 25, 2016
Loretta Messinger on Aquaponics
Loretta lives with her husband and two children in the Dallas/Fort Worth area of north central Texas. Having been gardening most of her adult life, she became intrigued with the urban homestead movement and is now on a mission to transform her little piece of the busy city into a thriving homestead. Her passion was fueled even more when she discovered aquaponics and learned that she could combine her love of gardening with one of her other favorite things, fish! Raising delicious tilapia in her aquaponics system only fed the fire and now their little homestead includes a small flock of laying hens with plans to add meat rabbits this fall. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg and Loretta have a great time sharing their love and appreciation of truly home prepared meals. Loretta tells Greg all about how she has established her own aquaponics system on her homestead and now enjoys the health benefits of the love and care she has put into her organically based homestead. Together they share some tips and advice on how to have success with aquaponics. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/25/loretta-messinger/ for show notes and links.
Tue, August 23, 2016
Mary Maranville on Agriculture Education for Kids
Mary was raised on a Holstein dairy farm in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. In 2008 she founded SEEAG, Students for Eco-Education and Agriculture, which teaches children about the farm origins of their food and connects them to the farmland in their own backyard. After years of teaching thousands of local school children, Mary realized their parents also knew little about local agriculture. So she founded Ventura County Farm Day, a county-wide agricultural education event, which includes over 20 local farms, tours and activities. In This Podcast: Greg chats with Mary and learns how she recognized the need for agriculture education for both kids and adults in her community and how she started an organization to do something about it. Mary also teaches Greg something he did not realize about agriculture and education. Together they share an appreciation of the Do-er’s in the world. And she explains about the annual event she organized to help farmers in her county connect with the residents through a day-long open house at farms around the county. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/23/mary-maranville/ for show notes and links
Sat, August 20, 2016
Morag Gamble on Permaculture Education
Morag loves living a permaculture life. She is a passionate permaculture teacher, an experienced designer, a permaculture blogger and film maker, a regular feature writer for the the Australian Permaculture Magazine and Correspondent for the new ABC Simple Living and Permaculture radio show. She lives at Crystal Waters a permaculture village in the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast with her husband and young family, who she homeschools. They designed and built their eco-home without going into debt, collect all their own water, deal with their own wastewater and produce their own power. Morag loves teaching from her gardens - in this educational space she leads her Nature Kids programs, Young Ethos Scholar programs, Earth School camps for high school students and the Permaculture Life education series for adults. IN THIS PODCAST: Greg and Morag cross time to chat about the beauty of living a simple life in conjunction with nature. She tells an inspiring story of how she has implemented her permaculture learnings into her life and how she is now reciprocating by sharing that knowledge in a variety of permaculture education. Listen to learn and be inspired, and perhaps bring a little bit of Crystal Waters into your own world Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/20/morag-gamble/ for show notes and links.
Thu, August 18, 2016
Nate Downey on Water Harvesting
Author of the recent award-winning book, “ Harvest the Rain, ” published in 2010 by Sunstone Press, Nate brings an extensive background to his current work and practice as a designer, “landscape-changer,” and forward-looking writer. For over a decade, Nate has spoken, taught, and penned numerous columns, guides, and publications extending permaculture practices in vitally important ways. At home, in our backyards, in the workplace, regionally, nationally, and internationally, Nate’s work addresses what he calls “changescapes,” “permapatterns,” and “permaDesign” — providing practical and visionary ways to be productive and add value to our lives, homes, communities, and environment. Nate’s PermaDesign firm believes decisions that “green” our daily lives should add beauty, comfort, and value to our most-important investments. While impacting our world at home, we can all positively affect the environment upon which we depend. Each of us can make a difference by the way we see and the way we act. IN THIS PODCAST: Nate shares his story with Greg and they talk about how a Permaculture Design Course with Bill Mollison changed his life path. Together they consider "permaculture magic" and how that happens a lot in the world of permaculture. And Nate shares a lot of information about water harvesting methods and how they can be of use in a variety of climates. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/18/nate-downey/ for show notes and links.
Tue, August 16, 2016
Laura Plumb on Natural Foods for Better Health
Laura is a master teacher in numerous fields of the ancient science of life that arises from the Vedas and brings us Yoga, Ayurveda and Jyotish…time-tested and evidence-based pathways to healing, wholeness and higher self-actualization. Working for years in the fields of health and human potential for decades, Laura is a Vedic Healer, Ayurvedic Consultant, Yoga Teacher, Jyotish Master, Life Coach, and well-followed blogger on Ayurvedic Nutrition. She has studied the world over with some of the greatest luminaries of our time, practicing and sharing what she has learned from ancient, proven wisdom for modern, exciting times. Offering classes and consultations in Ayurveda, Jyotish, Yoga Therapy, Whole Food Cooking and Nutrition, and life coaching, a session with Laura can address health issues, chronic pain, emotional balance, stress reduction, yogic living, spiritual growth, self-realization. Her blog food-alovestory.com is an inspirational resource for sacred, sumptuous living. IN THIS PODCAST: Laura and Greg share some mutual respect and appreciation as they discuss how important our place is in the world. Laura shares her appreciation for the food and medicines that we can grow in our own gardens, and helps make the connection of nature and our bodies. We also get an easy to understand explanation of Ayurveda. She closes with food suggestions for different Doshas and how we can plan for our health with the foods that we eat. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/16/laura-plumb/ for show notes and links.
Sat, August 13, 2016
Eric Toensmeier on Carbon Farming
Eric is the award-winning author of Paradise Lot and Perennial Vegetables, and the co-author of Edible Forest Gardens. He is an appointed lecturer at Yale University, a Senior Biosequestration Fellow with Project Drawdown, and an international trainer. Eric presents in English, Spanish, and botanical Latin throughout the Americas and beyond. He has studied useful perennial plants and their roles in agroforestry systems for over two decades. Eric has owned a seed company, managed an urban farm that leased parcels to Hispanic and refugee growers, and provided planning and business trainings to farmers. He is the author of The Carbon Farming Solution: A Global Toolkit of Perennial Crops and Regenerative Agricultural Practices for Climate Change Mitigation and Food Security. Greg and Eric have a great conversation talking about carbon, climate change, permaculture and there are a few tidbits in here that even caught Greg by surprise. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/13/eric-toensmeier/ for show notes and links.
Thu, August 11, 2016
John Moody of Farm to Consumer Legal Defense Fund
John is a husband, father to four, small farmer, author, and speaker. After serving on the board of the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund, he was asked to serve as interim Executive Director and now full Executive Director. John has participated in the small farming and food freedom movement in many ways over the years, serving as administrator for one of the largest local food buying clubs in the nation (Whole Life Buying Club). He acted by standing up with the members of that buying club to unjust enforcement actions that denied them access to real food, protesting the FDAs harassment of farmers and consumers seeking real food. John regularly speaks across the nation on matters related to food, health, and farming. He and his family steward the 35 acres that they like to call Some Small Farm. John and Greg have an eye-opening chat about the rights of farmers and growers in America. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/11/john-moody/ for show notes and links.
Tue, August 09, 2016
Hayley Fager on Agriculture Awards from INUAg
Hayley joined International Network for Urban Agriculture (INUAg) as the Director of Programming and Operations in March of this year. She develops and leads international and regional programming for the organization. Hayley graduated with a B.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing from Colgate University, and is thrilled to be working with INUAg to help urban farmers cultivate sustainable food systems. The INUAg advocates for, educates, and provides funding to urban farmers world-wide. They help urban growers connect to each other to share best practices and provide promotional support to their projects. They’ve facilitated exchanges between farmers in the U.S. and farmers in Europe, Canada, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda, and the Philippines. They are currently collecting submissions for their Annual International Leaders in Urban Agriculture Awards Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/09/hayley-fager/ for show notes and links.
Sat, August 06, 2016
Kelly Houle on Botanical Art
Kelly Houle is a botanical and wildlife artist, calligrapher, and founder of Books of Kell’s Press, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit that works to create handmade books and original art to raise awareness about science and nature, and to raise money for humanitarian causes. Kelly is also creating a handwritten illuminated manuscript based on the Origin of Species by Charles Darwin in addition to a handful of other illustration projects. Kelly’s original paintings, handmade books, and prints are in numerous public and private collections around the world. She is currently developing a pilot art and science program to help create Monarch butterfly habitats as teaching gardens in schools. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/06/kelly-houle/ for show notes and links.
Thu, August 04, 2016
Penny Livingston on Urban Permaculture
Penny is internationally recognized as a prominent permaculture teacher, designer, and speaker. She holds a MS in Eco-Social Regeneration and a Diploma in Permaculture Design. Penny has been studying the Hermetic Tradition of alchemy and herbal medicine making in Europe and the United States for 4 years. Penny has been teaching internationally and working professionally in the land management, regenerative design, and permaculture development field for 25 years and has extensive experience in all phases of ecologically sound design and construction as well as the use of natural non-toxic building materials. She specializes in site planning and the design of resource-rich landscapes integrating - rainwater collection, edible and medicinal planting, spring development, pond and water systems, habitat development and watershed restoration for homes, co-housing communities, businesses, and diverse yield perennial farms. Listen in to hear about: Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/04/penny-livingston/ for show notes and links.
Tue, August 02, 2016
Becca Moore on Starting a Homestead
Becca lives in Northeastern Pennsylvania with her husband and seven children. She loves to garden, preserve her own food, spend time with her family and she’s an aspiring homesteader. She hopes to own a slew of chickens and maybe even a goat. Becca has started her own homestead and created a blog of her experiences called “Simply Quaint Homestead” to help others who hope to make the journey as well. Her specialty is gardening and home-canning and believes they go hand in hand. She says “If you can grow enough of your own food, you are able to home-can enough to make it through the winter.” Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/08/02/becca-moore/ for show notes and links.
Sat, July 30, 2016
Tim Amlaw on Tackling Food Deserts
An Urban Hydroponic project of PureHarvest Foods Tim is an urban agrarian from a farm and agriculture education training and background. He has dedicated his life to building farmer based systems and programs to improve agriculture, humane care of animals and now local Urban Agriculture. His current endeavor is PureHarvests Foods and the Project Arizona Urban Organic Veggie, rejuvenating vacant land in the city with scaled vegetable production and training a local workforce to meet all of the community’s fresh vegetable needs. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/30/tim-amlaw/ for show notes and links.
Thu, July 28, 2016
Brad Lancaster on Rainwater Harvesting
Brad Lancaster is the author of the award-winning Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands and Beyond and co-founder of DesertHarvesters.org. Since 1993 Brad has run a successful permaculture education, design, and consultation business focused on integrated regenerative approaches to landscape design, planning, and living. In the Sonoran Desert, with just 11 inches of annual rainfall, he and his brother harvest about 100,000 gallons of rainwater a year on an eighth-acre urban lot and adjoining right-of-way. This harvested water is then turned into living air conditioners of food-bearing shade trees, abundant gardens, and a thriving landscape incorporating wildlife habitat, beauty, medicinal plants, and more. The goal of his book series and overall work is to empower his clients and community to make positive change in their own lives and neighborhoods—by harvesting and enhancing free on-site resources such as water, sun, wind, shade, community, and more. It’s catching on, as evidenced by tens of thousands of practitioners and demand for Brad’s work around the world. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/28/brad-lancaster/ for show notes and links.
Tue, July 26, 2016
Michelle Fehler on Biomimicry
Michelle’s love for gardening most likely was imprinted during her childhood in Switzerland where she grew up surrounded by green and lush vegetation. She spent most of her childhood in her parents’ garden, connecting on a deep level with nature. In her mid-twenties, she moved to Phoenix for a 6-month adventure. And now, after 19 years, she calls Phoenix her home. Michelle is a trained graphic designer who received her Masters exploring biomimetic and sustainable graphic design. She is full-time faculty at the Design School at ASU. These days, her garden provides her with much needed time for restorative energy while she is working on her second Master’s through the newly established Biomimicry Program at ASU as well as on the Biomimicry Professional certification through Biomimicry 3.8. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/26/michelle-fehler/ for show notes and links.
Sat, July 23, 2016
Darren Chapman on Stimulating Community Development
Darren is a community pro-activist who has committed his life to helping people. He is Founder and CEO of TigerMountain Foundation (a.k.a. TMF), which has implemented Empowerment Initiatives to uplift communities and eliminate blight. Tiger Mountain’s initiatives are community garden / landscaping development, audio, visual and performance art, community service and volunteerism. The gardens promote healthy living by growing lush-gardens and feeding the community. TigerMountain Foundation’s Asset Based Community Development model was developed with the thought of urban renewal and restoration of communities. Participants who stay engaged are motivated to keep positive and will develop their individual very important assets. Darren’s motto is to change one mind and attitude at a time, encouraging all who have been touched to pay it forward, which will undoubtedly make the immediate community and the world a better place to live. Darren currently resides and works in the Phoenix Metropolitan area. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/23/darren-chapman/ for show notes and links.
Thu, July 21, 2016
Kerry Wekelo on Encouraging Kids to Eat Better
Kerry is the founder and visionary of Zendoway and hopes to share with you from all her life experiences. Kerry serves as the Director of Human Resources and Operations for Actualize Consulting in which she spearheaded and runs a successful wellness program. In addition to wellness and leadership articles, Kerry has authored “Audrey’s Journey” a children’s book series focused on living with compassion and joy. She also wrote the "Pile of Smile Activity Book" to give away free to children undergoing cancer treatments and If It Does Not Grow Say No” to teach kids about having fun with nutrition. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/21/kerry-wekelo/ for show notes and links.
Tue, July 19, 2016
Jessica Piper on Jarden's Can-It-Forward Day
Jessica is a home canning expert and has worked for Jarden Home Brands for over 11.5 years. She currently is an Analytics Specialist (or Home Canning Expert) in Consumer Affairs and a certified process engineer through the USDA. Being a life-long resident in Muncie, Indiana, Jessica has a strong affinity toward the Ball brand & its heritage in her community. Now in its 6th year, Can-It-Forward Day has a “Facebook Live! Event” taking place on Friday, July 22nd from 10AM – 3:30PM ET. Jarden Home Brands, will host a series of live, unique recipe demos taking place in kitchens across the country. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/19/jessica-piper/ for show notes and links.
Sat, July 16, 2016
Stacey Murphy on Urban Farming in Brooklyn
Stacey has taught hundreds of teens and adults how to grow, harvest and prepare fresh foods. She is a recovering engineer and architect turned garden geek and farm nerd. Stacey founded BK Farmyards, a cooperative of urban farmers in Brooklyn dedicated to social justice through urban agriculture, and helped create over an acre of new farmyards in Brooklyn. She's been featured on Martha Stewart Radio, PBS online and once appeared on the David Letterman show with a giant radish. She envisions a world where everyone is nourished by the magic of fresh, affordable and culturally exciting food…extra points if it’s homegrown. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/16/stacey-murphy/ for show notes and links.
Thu, July 14, 2016
Jerome Osentowski on Growing an Indoor Food Forest
Jerome Osentowski has spent the last 30 years developing indoor and outdoor forest farming technology at his location in Basalt, Colorado. He is the founder and director of the Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute dedicated to education, research, and demonstration. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/14/jerome-osentowski/ for show notes and links.
Tue, July 12, 2016
DeBorah Prince on Learning How to Garden from the Internet
Gardening has been DeBorah Prince’s passion and therapy for over 20 years. She grows a huge range of fruits and veggies from asparagus to zucchini, makes her own compost and vermicompost, and her latest project is building a chicken coop. She lives in New Jersey and has been married for 23 years with a big family of 8 children and 15 grandchildren. Come listen to the delightfully upbeat gardener tell us how she decided to just start gardening and learned how from the internet and books. She explains how the food available today is not real food, and why that matters to her family. You can't help but laugh with her as she tells us why she named her urban farm and why everyone should name theirs. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/12/deborah-prince/ for show notes and links.
Sat, July 09, 2016
Beth Terry on Living and Gardening without Plastic
After learning about the devastating effects of plastic pollution on the environment and human health, Oakland accountant Beth began an experiment to see if she could live without buying any new plastic. Since then, she has reduced her plastic waste to less than 2% of the national average. That experiment turned into the popular blog MyPlasticFreeLife.com and new book Plastic-Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too . Her work and life have been profiled in the award-winning film Bag It , as well as Susan Freinkel’s book, Plastic: A Toxic Love Story and Captain Charles Moore’s Plastic Ocean . Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/09/beth-terry/ for show notes and links.
Thu, July 07, 2016
Paris Masek on Food Hubs and Small Farms
Paris Masek is the Managing Director for Green on Purpose and the Director of Agriculture Programs for Quincea Social Enterprises. He is also a PhD candidate at ASU in English Literature working with Indigenous American Literature and Cultures. He is an active member of the Maricopa County Food System Coalition as well as an urban gardener who uses raised beds, edible landscaping, and a flock of chickens in his downtown residence to keep fresh produce and eggs on his family’s dinner table. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/07/paris-masek/ for show notes and links.
Tue, July 05, 2016
Toby Hemenway on A Permaculture Way of Life
Toby is the author of a new book on urban and suburban permaculture, The Permaculture City, as well as Gaia’s Garden, the best-selling permaculture book in the world, which won the 2011 Nautilus award and was named one of the ten best gardening books of 2010 by The Washington Post . He has been an adjunct professor at Portland State University and Scholar-in-Residence at Pacific University. Toby is a well-known permaculture teacher and has taught over 70 Permaculture Design Courses. He and his wife, Key el, live in Sebastopol, California. Listen in to our 100th episode and hear Greg and Toby chat about one of their favorite topics: Permaculture. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/05/toby-hemenway/ for show notes and links
Sat, July 02, 2016
Dr. George Brooks on Agtech and Aquaponics
Dr. George Brooks Jr. is the Founder and President of the NxT Horizon Group. Dr. Brooks holds an earned Ph.D., in Wildlife and Fisheries from the School of Renewable Natural Resources at the University of Arizona and is an established social, environmental, economic and political leader and business consultant. With the motto of “AgTech for the Real World” NxT Horizon focuses on bioenergy development in Africa, and the development and application of new urban farming technologies (aquaponics) to solve real world social, environmental and economic problems. Come listen to Dr. Brooks as he helps us understand more about aquaponics and our opportunities with it. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/07/02/george-brooks/ for show notes and links.
Thu, June 30, 2016
Michael Judd on Edible Landscape Design
Michael Judd has worked with agro-ecological and whole system designs throughout the Americas for the last 20 years focusing on applying permaculture and ecological design to increase local food security and community health in both tropical and temperate growing regions. The founder of both Ecologia, LLC , Edible & Ecological Landscape Design and Project Bona Fide , an international non-profit supporting agro-ecology research. Come listen and learn about Michael's adventure in rural latin america and what he learned from some Mayan tribes. He tells us how he learned they managed to meet all of their needs without help from the outside. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/30/michael-judd/ for show notes and links.
Tue, June 28, 2016
Jodi Torpey on Blue Ribbon Vegetables
Growing vegetables worthy of entering competitions. Jodi is an award-winning vegetable gardener, craftsy gardening instructor, and the founder and editor-in-chief of WesternGardeners.com. In addition to the two books she authored, her garden writing also appears in digital and print media. Since 2010 she’s organized the annual Plant a Row for the Hungry campaign in Denver, Colorado. Jodi has a lot of great advice on how and why to start growing vegetables for competition purposes. Listen in to our "biggest" podcast ever and find out why we say that. Visit http://www.urbanfarm.org/blog/2016/06/28/jodi-torpey/ for show notes and links.
Sat, June 25, 2016
Molly Cole on Starting a Small Farm in Washington
Molly comes from a long line of farmers in Washington state. She grew up on a farm with chickens, cows, pigs and the occasional turkey. She has two boys and her own acre in Spokane where they raise chickens, honey bees and of course, fruits and veggies. She’s just getting started and hope to transform her property into a working, thriving, educational farm where she can teach her family and others how to grow their own food. Molly did not want to be a farmer when she went to college so she pursued other interests. Eventually she bought a house with an acre of land and a bee hive. Listen to her story of how she is returning to farming to give her children better food options, and using her education background to help teach others about beekeeping and basic farming. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/25/molly-cole/ for show notes and links.
Thu, June 23, 2016
Larry Santoyo on Permaculture Design
Larry has been a teacher and practitioner of Permaculture Design for the last 28 years. After a career in law enforcement, Santoyo went onto land use planning and was mentored by Permaculture’s founding father, Bill Mollison. Santoyo went on to teach Permaculture with Mollison around the US and Australia. He has taught environmental design at colleges and universities nationwide, including UC Berkeley, UC Santa Cruz, Evergreen College, CSU Northridge, and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. He is also the Senior Designer at Earthflow Designs of Los Angeles, one of the largest Permaculture companies in the world. The firm specializes in planning and design that integrates economic development strategies with ecological systems management in residential, commercial and municipal projects. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/23/larry-santoyo/ for show notes and links.
Tue, June 21, 2016
Tristram Stewart on Food Waste, A Global Scandal
Tristram Stuart, founder of the charity Feedback, is an international award-winning author ( The Bloodless Revolution and Waste: Uncovering the Global Food Scandal ), speaker, campaigner and expert on the environmental and social impacts of food production. The environmental campaigning organization he founded, Feedback, has spread its work into dozens of countries worldwide, working with governments, international institutions, businesses, non-governmental organizations, grassroots organizations and the public to change society’s attitude toward wasting food. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/21/tristram-stuart/ for show notes and links.
Sat, June 18, 2016
Diana Rogers on Homegrown Paleo Cooking
Diana is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist living on a working organic farm outside of Boston, Massachusetts. She is the author of The Homegrown Paleo Cookbook: Over 100 Gluten Free, Seasonal Recipes and a Complete Guide to Growing Your Own Healthy Food. Diana speaks internationally about nutrition and sustainability issues in our food system, runs the popular podcast, Sustainable Dish, and works with people one on one to help them recover their health through real food. Come join us as we hear Diana tells us how she and her husband created the sustainable farm and education center they now run. Her passion to help others is obvious as it weaves through her story. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/18/diana-rodgers/ for show notes and links.
Thu, June 16, 2016
Casey Beck & Austin Blair on 'The Organic Life' a Documentary
Casey is a director and producer of independent documentary films, highlighting untold stories. She premiered “The Organic Life” to sold-out crowds at the 36th Mill Valley Film Festival in 2013. The film won Best Documentary Feature at the Santa Cruz Film Festival, and national online and broadcast distribution was rolled out in 2014, including on iTunes, FoodMattersTV, and PivotTV among others. Casey is currently directing a feature documentary “This Just In” as well a digital short documentary series telling immigration stories through food, called “Table." Austin has been farming for seven years. He got his start through the apprentice program at Soil Born Farms in Sacramento, California in 2009. Soon after, he co-founded Lunita Farm in Sonoma Valley, a hand-scale mixed vegetable operation. In 2010, Austin began to work full time at Paul's Produce, a mainstay in the Sonoma farming community for nearly 30 years. At home, he raises chickens and is launching a hot sauce label. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/16/casey-beck-austin-blair/ for show notes and links.
Tue, June 14, 2016
Kamea Chayne on How to Thrive
Kamea is the content curator of Kamea World and the author of Thrive , an evidence-based guide to healthy living. She is a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis, and she is currently the Marketing Manager of Ethical Writers Co. Through her multi-disciplinary studies and her multicultural background, Kamea developed a particular interest in the relationship between human health and world sustainability—an interest that eventually led her to write her debut nonfiction book Thrive. By proposing a broadened perspective on health—one that encompasses the health of the mind, body, and our collective environment—Kamea hopes to empower her readers to cultivate meaning and create sustainability in all areas of life. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/14/kamea-chayne/ for show notes and links.
Sat, June 11, 2016
Diana Maranhao on Water Conservation
Diana is a horticulturist, garden columnist and author of 3 books: Water-Smart Gardening; Rocky Mountain Fruit & Vegetable Gardening; and Southwest Gardener’s Guide , published by Cool Springs Press . She lives and gardens in southern Utah with her husband, Steve. Combining her professional background in education with the continuous learning experiences her gardens provide, she strives to encourage, to teach and inspire others to garden sustainably. Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/11/diana-maranhao/ for show notes and links.
Thu, June 09, 2016
Candy Lesher on her Pool-to-Garden Transformation
Candy is self-taught chef, instructor, writer and speaker, who has been inducted into Arizona's Culinary Hall of Fame and hosted and produced Food & Life Television for 3 years. She is now shifting her direction to helping others as a Culinary Wellness Coach; assisting those who have been diagnosed with health issues to transition into a healthier culinary lifestyle and make those changes both enjoyable and sustainable. She believes that growing (and cooking) their own food can be a big part of every "healthier lifestyle" success! For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/09/candy-lesher/
Tue, June 07, 2016
Michael Tamez on Transformative Nutrition
Michael was morbidly obese, had severe sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and advanced gum disease. Not only did he lose 105 pounds, but he also reversed all of his lifestyle-related health conditions. This enabled him to transform the dysfunctional relationship he had with food, his lifestyle, and his true self. Michael’s health journey was intensified when he lost five family members in eighteen months. Because of the impact these losses had on his life, Michael was forced to have major breakthroughs with the things that were the most difficult to deal with. After experiencing all of these life transformations, he was highly inspired to become a certified health coach and also wrote an empowering book about healthy and balanced living. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/07/michael-tamez/
Sat, June 04, 2016
Katie Poirier from Keep Phoenix Beautiful
Katie Poirier is the project director of PHX Renews. PHX Renews finds temporary uses for vacant lots, an initiative envisioned by Phoenix Mayor Stanton in 2012 and managed by the non-profit, Keep Phoenix Beautiful. PHX Renews currently operates on a 15 acre parcel located in downtown Phoenix with 16 other non-profit partners and an emphasis on community agriculture. Katie graduated with a B.A. from the School of Sustainability at Arizona State University. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/04/katie-poirier/
Thu, June 02, 2016
Brandi DeCarli on Farm from a Box
Brandi is the Founding Partner of Farm from a Box, an off-grid, modularly designed farm system that provides communities with the tools they need to grow their own food locally and earn an income. Previously, Brandi was the Managing Partner of Human.kind Philanthropic Advisory Company, a consulting firm that created custom giving strategies to foster a greater level of donor engagement, all built around collaboration, transparency, and impact. There she worked to develop cross-sector partnerships with nonprofits, private sector, governments, and philanthropic organizations to help elevate the effectiveness and impact of projects. A collaborator at heart, she specializes in strategic planning, design strategy, and business development. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/06/02/brandi-decarli/
Tue, May 31, 2016
Ben Klempner on Urban Farming Activism
Ben is a husband and father of two boys and two girls living in the Jerusalem Foothills. He attended the University of Montana where he received a BA in American Literature and a Minor in Wilderness Studies. He received his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Barry University in Miami, Florida. Ben learned how to farm by reading lots of books, watching and listening to lots of videos and podcasts, speaking to farmers, and then jumped in headfirst to start a one thousand container EarthBox farm. Now, he manages a small urban farm at a community center that uses raised beds, containers, and no-till gardening techniques using thick layers of straw mulch and a broadfork. Ben advocates for himself and encourages and consults other small-scale farmers, gardeners, and would-be farmers to carve out niches for themselves as municipal and educational farmers within their municipalities and education school boards. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/31/ben-klempner/
Sat, May 28, 2016
DaNelle Wolford on Raising Goats and Sheep
DaNelle is a former health care provider, mother of 2 children, and creator of the blog Weed 'em & Reap. DaNelle started to take an interest in a healthier lifestyle after suffering from two debilitating chronic diseases. On a mission to create a farm of her own, DaNelle forced, or rather 'lovingly persuaded' her husband to purchase a ranch home on an acre of land and transform it into their very own urban farm. DaNelle blogs at Weed 'em & Reap where she writes about sustainable backyard farming, traditional food, & natural remedies. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/28/danelle-wolford/
Thu, May 26, 2016
Jason Mraz Part 2: Farming on the Road
This is part 2 of a two-part series with singer-songwriter Jason Mraz. Jason Mraz is a two-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter and urban farming enthusiast. He has been backyard homesteading for the past 5 years and currently owns and operates a 10 acre subtropical fruit orchard where he grows avocado, coffee and 25 other fruit varieties. He believes a connection to farmers and/or the origin of food itself can empower a person to live a happier, healthier, more eco-friendly and more economical life. He also loves driving a tractor. Greg and Jason share a great conversation about what it is like to farm, what motivates him, and how Jason is managing his passions. The conversation was so great that we had to divide it in two parts! For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/26/jason-mraz-2/
Tue, May 24, 2016
Jason Mraz Part 1: Urban Farming Adventures
This is Part 1 of a two-part series. In this episode, Jason Mraz shares his urban farming adventures with Urban Farm U. Jason is a two-time Grammy Award winning singer/songwriter and urban farming enthusiast. He has been backyard homesteading for the past 5 years and currently owns and operates a 10-acre subtropical fruit orchard where he grows avocado, coffee and 25 other fruit varieties. He believes a connection to farmers and/or the origin of food itself can empower a person to live a happier, healthier, eco-friendlier and more economical life. For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/24/jason-mraz-1/ Greg and Jason share a great conversation about what it is like to farm, what motivates him, and how Jason is managing his passions. The conversation was so great that we had to divide it in two parts!
Sat, May 21, 2016
Dr. Jay Davidson on Connecting Food & Health
Dr. Jay is a doctor focusing on a natural functional medicine approach. He is also a popular speaker, #1 international bestselling author, husband, father, church elder and former radio talk show host. Dr. Jay was the host of the Chronic Lyme Disease Summit with 31 experts that happened April of this year. Dr. Jay is admired for his ability to bridge the gap between the scientific health community and the layperson. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/21/jay-davidson/
Thu, May 19, 2016
Albert Kaufman from Farm My Yard
Albert is a long time Pacific Northwest activist. He's worked on urban farming, forestry, quality of life issues and more since moving to the region in 1994. Albert is a huge proponent of helping people find their way to the garden. You can learn more about him at AlbertIdeation.com and FarmMyYard.org . For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/19/albert-kaufman/
Tue, May 17, 2016
Chef Jennifer Johnson on Cooking a Presidential Meal
Jennifer Johnson was a former sous chef at Chez Panisse under Alice Waters, credited with starting the global sustainable foods movement. For the last 14 years, Jen has served as the Executive Chef for Ann & Gordon Getty, one of San Francisco’s most prominent families - where she was also tasked with preparing healthy, home-cooked lunches for students at the household's Montessori school. In 2015, Chef Jen and Hip Chick Farms co-founder Serafina Palandech were named Most Innovative Women in Food & Drink by Food & Drink Magazine. Jennifer attended the California Culinary Academy where she earned an Associate of Arts degree. She will discuss the meal she cooked for Obama and life on the farm. For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/17/jennifer-johnson/
Sat, May 14, 2016
Ed Roman on Music with Meaning
Ed is an award-winning singer/songwriter, performer and multi-instrumentalist from Shelburne, Ontario, Canada. Blurring the lines between pop, rock, folk, and country music genres, Ed’s uniquely crafted songs have received regular rotation on more than 100 terrestrial radio stations across North America and more than 400 stations, worldwide. Ed is a 2014 International Music and Entertainment Association Award Winner, a two-time 2015 IMEA Award nominee, a Josie Show Awards nominee, an Akademia Awards Winner, a 2016 Libera Awards nominee, and a two-time Indie Music Channel Award winner. Ed is also a farmer, who grows his own food for his family and community. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/14/ed-roman/
Thu, May 12, 2016
Kim Eierman on Native Plants
77: Kim Eierman on Native Plants Choosing plants that are appropriate for your ecosystem. Kim is an environmental horticulturist specializing in ecological landscapes and native plants. She is also the founder of EcoBeneficial!, a horticulture communications and consulting company. Kim teaches at the New York Botanical Garden, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, The Native Plant Center and several other institutions. She is an active speaker on ecological gardening topics, presenting at industry conferences, garden clubs and nature centers. A Certified Horticulturist through the American Society for Horticultural Science, Kim is also a Master Gardener, a Master Naturalist, an Accredited Organic Landcare Professional and a Steering Committee member of The Native Plant Center. She received 2015 and 2014 Silver Awards of Achievement from the Garden Writers Association. In this podcast: What kinds of plants are good for bees? How else can you support pollinators? Did you know that some bees and even ants can be pollinators? How do you know which bugs are GOOD for the garden? How can urban farmers enhance their ecosystem? For more links and resources from this podcast go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/12/kim-eierman/
Tue, May 10, 2016
Amanda Midkiff on Growing Medicinal Herbs
Amanda Midkiff of Locust Light Farm is a medicinal herb farmer and herbalist in New Hope, PA. She had been an organic vegetable farmer for 6 years before making the switch to growing herbs, and she's been happily surrounded by their beauty ever since. When she's not farming, Amanda enjoys teaching yoga, reading and writing poetry, and sipping coffee in diners. For show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/10/amanda-midkiff/
Sat, May 07, 2016
Kristin Parsons on Yard Design
Kristin is a native Texan, went to college in Kansas, and ended up in Arizona in 2004. She’s been gardening, raising chickens, planting fruit trees, and constructing buildings ever since! Kristin is an architect and an interior designer, and completed her Permaculture Design Course last fall. She lives on a half-an-acre property with her husband, 2 dogs, 10 chickens, a Jersey Cow, and over 75 fruit trees. She works part time at an architecture firm, and started MODIFY Concepts in 2015 to provide design consultation for architecture, interiors, and permaculture. For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/07/kristin-parsons/
Thu, May 05, 2016
Stella Otto on Backyard Fruit Trees
Stella Otto got her first taste for fruit growing during annual family outings to the U-pick orchards of western Massachusetts. After receiving a B.S. in horticulture from Michigan State University, she worked at one of largest fruit tree nurseries in the U.S, a major tart cherry orchard near Traverse City, Michigan, as well as in her own diversified fruit farm in northern Michigan. Stella has authored two books, the award-winning The Backyard Orchardist: A complete guide to growing fruit trees in the home garden and The Backyard Berry Book: A hands-on guide to growing berries, brambles, and vine fruit in the home garden. She has written freelance articles for numerous magazines, appeared on the Discovery Channel, and been interviewed on National Public Radio and other gardening radio programs. Stella presently cultivates a fruitful family garden and enjoys her horses and cats on a 10-acre homestead in northern Michigan. For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/05/stella-otto/
Tue, May 03, 2016
John Zahina-Ramos of Just One Backyard
Dr.Z is ascientist who researches the environmental, ecological and economicbenefits of urban agriculture. He recently published a bookentitled "Just One Backyard: One Man's Search for FoodSustainability" that describes his journey from his family's Iowafarm to a major metropolitan area, and how that journey reflectssociety's transition from homegrown to industrialized foodproduction. In the book, he lays out indisputable facts thatdemonstrate just how beneficial urban food growing is to the localcommunity, the nation and the world's future foodsupply. Hisbook has been recognized as a Notable 100 Book for 2015 by ShelfUnbound Magazine and the e-book edition has beenawarded 1st Place in Self-Published Nonfiction by the prestigiousWriter's Digest Magazine. For shownotes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/05/03/john-zahina-ramos/
Sat, April 30, 2016
Tonyehn Verkitis from Eco-Arts Living
Tonyehn is the owner of Eco-Arts Living. Eco-Arts Living is about interconectedness, living with wholeheartedness and meaning, and the lives we want versus the lives WE CREATE for ourselves. We spend too much time focusing on what we don’t have the time, the skill or the money to do. Life is about making the time, finding the space and doing your best. Tonyehn is an avid gardener, foodie and prior restaurant reviewer, and sits on the board of The Greenhouse Project. For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/30/tonyehn-verkitus/
Thu, April 28, 2016
Jake Mace: Humanity's Global Future is Local
Jake Mace will talk about why humanity's global future is local and 3 ways to ensure your fruit trees thrive. Jake is The Vegan Athlete, runs Longevity Gardens in Phoenix, AZ with his wife Pam, and is one of the most passionate food advocates that we know. This is his third visit to The Urban Farm Podcast. We love having him on the show because he is always working on some new project in his yard and has a lot of valuable expertise to share! For show notes and links visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/28/jake-mace-humanitys-future/
Tue, April 26, 2016
Don Titmus on Permaculture and Bees
Don grew up in London and at age 16 spent 4 years being trained in horticulture through an apprenticeship and a college course. From there he continued landscaping in his hometown until he moved to Arizona in 1981, where he worked in landscaping and then starting his own business in garden maintenance. In 2003 he attended a Permaculture Design Course, which was life-changing for Don. He knew right away that this was the path he’d been waiting for, and later attended two Permaculture Teacher Trainings. He co-founded the Phoenix Permaculture Guild, started a Permaculture design company, redesigned his home site into a permaculture destination, and helped develop a thriving permaculture community in the Phoenix, Arizona area. He has presented in 5 cities, worked in several states, attended classes in 5 states, and pretty much lives and breathes permaculture. For more show notes and links visit - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/26/don-titmus/
Sat, April 23, 2016
Matthew Hoffman on Saving Organic and Heirloom Seeds
Matthew Hoffman on Saving Organic and Heirloom Seeds Matthew and his wife Astrid co-founded of The Living Seed Company, an organic and heirloom seed company, serving the greater Bay Area. Dedicated to planting the seeds of World Peace through supporting the act of families, friends and communities growing food together. The Living Seed Company preserves the diversity in our food through the distribution and growing of open pollinated seeds and educating about the life-affirming art of seed saving. Matthew and Astrid live and farm happily in Point Reyes Station, California. For more links, photos and resources from this podcast go to http://www.urbanfarm.org/blog/2016/04/23/matthew-hoffman/
Thu, April 21, 2016
Laura Ten Eyck on Hop Farming
Laura operates Indian Ladder Farmstead Brewery and Cidery in Altamont, New York with her husband, Dietrich. The two have been growing hops and brewing beer at home while working to restore local hop production in the northeast. Their orchard has been in Ten Eyck’s family for four generations, and she and Dietrich have lived there for more than twenty-five years, growing fruits and vegetables for sale to restaurants, gardening extensively, and raising animals, including sheep for meat and wool, dairy goats for milk, and chickens for eggs and meat. Laura is also the author of The Hop Grower's Handbook: The Essential Guide for Sustainable Small-Scale Production for Home and Market (published by Chelsea Green). Check out our show notes here - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/21/laura-ten-eyck/
Tue, April 19, 2016
Stewart Jacobson on Food Safety
Stewart Jacobson is with the Agricultural Consultation and Training Program (ACT) of the Arizona Department of Agriculture. A 37-year employee of the department, Stewart has spent over 33 of those years as enforcement with Meat and Poultry Inspection, as an inspector, trainer and the Program Manager. Now with ACT, Stewart’s role is consultation in food safety programs for leafy greens and other vegetables leading to the GHP/GAP audit. Whether traditional agriculture in a field, hydroponics or other systems, Stewart will assist in the development of your food safety program. Stewart understands Arizona agriculture and will discuss the food safety audit and program with everyone. Check out our show notes here https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/19/stewart-jacobson/
Sat, April 16, 2016
Hassena Kassim, The Worm Whisperer
In this episode, we have Hassena Kassim of Vermi-Love Worm Farm & More LLC to talk about her experience with vermicomposting. Sena (AKA the Worm Whisperer) holds degrees and certificates in Herbalism, nutrition, landscaping, arboriculture and water harvesting. Edible gardens, vermicomposting and water harvesting are all part of her integrated landscape designs. Besides a love of worms, Sena enjoys playing imaginative games with her daughter and creating art. Living a more natural life daily and always learning more about plants helps to get her out of bed in the morning. Check out our shownotes here - https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/16/hassena-kassim/
Thu, April 14, 2016
Maat van Uitert on Homesteading with Chickens
Maat van Uitert is a homesteading and chicken expert who helps everyday people learn to grow food in their own backyard. She is the founder of the blog FrugalChicken, the author of Chickens: Naturally Raising A Sustainable Flock, and a sought-after freelance writer. When not writing and raising poultry, Maat develops online courses about backyard farming to spread the message that freedom is ripe for the picking. Grab a free ebook about using fermented feed to raise healthier chickens at TheFrugalChicken.com/TheBetterEgg Check out ur show notes here https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/14/maat-van-uitert/
Tue, April 12, 2016
Jacq Davis on Urban Food Forests
Jacq was born in Taipei, Taiwan, grew up in Taichung, moved to Singapore for High School, then moved to Ohio to study at Columbus College of Art and Design in 1997. She became a US citizen in 2011. After living in Texas for a few years, Jacq and her husband sold their house, moved into a 35-foot Fifth Wheel RV and traveled and worked full time in the RV for 4 years. Jacq runs her own graphic design business, Jacq Design, from her home office in Tempe, AZ. She was first introduced to permaculture through the Valley Permaculture Alliance in 2012. Now, she is in the process of establishing a semi self-sustaining food forest in her backyard in Tempe, AZ. She hopes to inspire others to do the same by giving tours and trading seeds, harvests and plants with visitors. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/12/jacq-davis/
Sat, April 09, 2016
Michael Kramer on Permaculture and Economics
Michael Kramer is Managing Partner and Director of Social Research at Natural Investments, a sustainable and responsible investment advisor with 10 offices in 9 states. A national leader in his field since 2000, Michael serves on the national policy committee of USSIF: The Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment, the industry’s trade association. He is co-author of The Resilient Investor: A Plan for Your Life Not Just Your Money (Berrett-Koehler, 2015). A former Executive Director of Permaculture Drylands Institute, Michael has facilitated permaculture courses and teacher trainings since 1992. He lives in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/09/michael-kramer/
Thu, April 07, 2016
Cecilia Haviland on DIY Vertical Gardening
In 1992, John and Cecilia moved to a flat in a suburban area of Southern California, where there was no space in to grow a garden. Prior to that, they had always lived in rural areas where they had some acreage to grow a good-sized garden. John began to experiment with the container gardening concept on the front porch balcony, and it eventually became the Balcony Budeze™ Vertical Growing System, a DIY method for vertical gardening inexpensively. Check out or show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/07/cecilia-haviland/
Tue, April 05, 2016
Claire Robinson on GMO Myths and Truths
Claire is the co-author with two genetic engineers of the new book, GMO Myths and Truths: A Citizen's Guide to the Evidence on the Safety and Efficacy of Genetically Modified Crops , which is for sale on Amazon and in bookstores. GMO Myths and Truths summarizes the facts on GM crops and foods in simple terms that are accessible to the non-scientist but still relevant to scientists, policymakers and educators. As her regular job, Claire is the managing editor of GMWatch.org, a public news and information service on genetically modified crops and foods. She also grows some of her own food in her garden. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/05/claire-robinson/
Sat, April 02, 2016
Kim Roman on High Value Veggies
Kim began gardening using the original Square Foot Gardening method in the late 1980s. She learned the All New Square food gardening method and became a square foot gardening Certified Instructor, taught by Mel Bartholomew, in 2010. She teaches the next generation of Certified Instructors and serves as one of Mel’s assistants. Along with her daughter-in-law and Mel, Kim is working on children’s versions of the All New Square food gardening book. She is the owner of Square Foot Gardening 4 U, a woman veteran-owned business in Glen Burnie, Maryland where she teaches. She can be reached at sfg4u.com. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/04/02/kim-roman/
Thu, March 31, 2016
Lynn Pugh on Agricultural Education
Lynn Pugh is the farmer at Cane Creek Farm in north Georgia. She has been sharing what she has learned in organic farming classes at her farm since 2007. She teaches adults from a curriculum she developed for Georgia Organics, introduces children to agriculture through farm camps and hosts a Lunch N’ Learn series on a variety of topics related to food, farming and gardening. Many alumni of her classes are farming and gardening organically across the southeast. Her background as a chemistry teacher and higher education degrees in plant pathology and science curriculum give her a good foundation for establishing an agricultural education program. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/31/lynn-pugh/
Tue, March 29, 2016
Katrina Blair on Edible Weeds
Today on The Urban Farm Podcast we have Katrina Blair of Turtle Lake Refuge to talk about her experience with edible weeds. Katrina Blair began studying wild plants in her teens when she camped out alone for a summer to focus on eating wild foods. She later wrote “The Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants of the San Juan Mountains” for her senior project at Colorado College. In 1997 she completed an MA at John F Kennedy University in Orinda, California in Holistic Health Education. She founded Turtle Lake Refuge in 1998, a non-profit, whose mission is to celebrate the connection between personal health and wild lands. Turtle Lake Refuge is a wild harvested, locally grown and living foods café and sustainable education center for the community. Katrina teaches sustainable living practices and wild edible and medicinal classes. She has authored two books: Local Wild Life - Turtle Lake Refuge’s Recipes for Living Deep and The Wild Wisdom of Weeds: 13 Essential Plants for Human Survival , which was published by Chelsea Green 2014. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/29/katrina-blair/
Sat, March 26, 2016
Tyagaraja Welch on Sustainable Humane Earth
57: Tyagaraja Welch on Sustainable Humane Earth Tyagaraja (learn what his name means in the podcast!) is an Austin musician, permaculture designer, and yogi. With all of his intensive training Tyaga and partner Gunjen Mittl created a socially conscious local business called Sustainable Humane Earth, or SHE. SHE is true Mother Earth Activism! In this fascinating, philosophically-rich episode, Greg and Tyaga discuss everything from permaculture, aquaponics, and stacking functions to building community, the formation & philosophy of SHE,and whether or not modern society is ready for sustainability. His advice for others: "Cultivate a willingness to serve others." Check out ouw show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/26/tyagaraja-welch/
Thu, March 24, 2016
Wardee Harmon on Traditional Cooking
Wardee lives in Oregon with her family, where they garden, raise small livestock and cook from scratch. She's the author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Fermenting Foods" and other traditional cooking eBooks. Plus, she teaches online classes in the fundamentals of traditional cooking, sourdough, cultured dairy, cheesemaking, fermentation, kids cooking, dehydrating, allergy-free cooking, cooking outside, and more on her website TraditionalCookingSchool.com . Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/24/wardee-harmon/
Tue, March 22, 2016
Tony Kasowski on Charitable Growing
Tony's current project at the St Vincent de Paul urban farm is responsible for providing over 50,000 pounds of fresh produce to the needy and working homeless. He has also started a composting initiative, diverting over 400,000 pounds of organic waste from the city landfills. Tony has partnered with former Maricopa County Manager David Smith to create an agricultural division to the charity for therapeutic and vocational purposes, as well as revenue generation. Tony has worked on multiple small farms around Phoenix, ran an organic vegetable seed company and is currently involved with consulting, designing and building edible spaces privately. He is focused on education and the empowerment of the individual, offering horticultural classes to special needs teens, recovering adults, and the chronically homeless. Cehck out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/22/tony-kasowski/
Sat, March 19, 2016
Carol Deppe on the Eat-All Greens Growing Method
Oregon plant breeder Carol Deppe holds a PhD in genetics from Harvard University, and specializes in developing Open Source varieties of crops for organic growing conditions, sustainable agriculture, and human survival for the next thousand years. She is author of: The Tao of Vegetable Gardening: Cultivating Tomatoes, Greens, Peas, Beans, Squash, Joy, and Serenity ; The Resilient Gardener: Food Production and Self-Reliance in Uncertain Times ; and Breed Your Own Vegetable Varieties: The Gardener’s and Farmer’s Guide to Plant Breeding and Seed Saving . Visit www.caroldeppe.com for her seeds, books, and further adventures. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/19/carol-deppe/
Thu, March 17, 2016
Jennifer Hashley on the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project
Jennifer is the Director of the New Entry Sustainable Farming Project, a project of Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. New Entry is a beginning farmer training program that assists limited-resource individuals to begin small-scale commercial agriculture in Massachusetts as a way to preserve farmland and to expand consumer access to locally-grown foods . Jennifer is also a vegetable and livestock farmer she raises chickens, eggs, pork, beef, rabbit, and specialty vegetables. Jennifer serves on boards of the Urban Farming Institute of Boston and The Carrot Project, a small farm financing organization. She is a farm business planning instructor for the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources and has organized farm labs and field trips for graduate students in the Tufts’ University Agriculture, Food and Environment program. Jennifer served as an agricultural Peace Corps Volunteer in Honduras, holds a Master’s degree in Agricultural Policy from Tufts University and a BS in Environmental Science and Public Policy from Indiana University. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/17/jennifer-hashley/
Tue, March 15, 2016
Anne-Marie Miller on Overcoming Homesteading Obstacles
52: Anne-Marie Miller on Overcoming Homesteading Obstacles Anne-Marie, or Dash (for the hyphen in her name), is an urban farmer in Dallas, Texas. She raises chickens and rabbits on less than ¼ of an acre. Plus, she has turned her front yard into a large stand-out-in-the neighborhood vegetable garden. In addition to the farming she does on her homestead, she helped create a community garden literally from grassy field to thriving garden. What stands out about her little urban homestead is her determined out of the box approach to overcoming obstacles. You can follow her adventures on her little urban homestead by visiting her blog, BloomWhereYourPlanted.com. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/14/anne-marie-miller/
Sat, March 12, 2016
Joe Urbach on Phytonutrient Gardening
Joe Urbach is the publisher of GardeningAustin.com and is the author of Phytonutrient Gardening: The Guide to Understanding , Growing & Eating Phytonutrient-rich Antioxidant-dense foods. Living in the central Texas area for over 30 years, Joe can be found offering gardening talks and advice as well as teaching classes at local nurseries, libraries, garden clubs and Extension offices. He is an advocate for, "a kitchen garden in every home," and for the last several years he has installed raised beds and container gardens in homes throughout the Austin and San Antonio region. Joe is currently focusing on phytonutrient gardening and with the release of his new book he wants to help as many people as possible learn to live active, healthy, and productive lives by growing their own phytonutrient-rich, antioxidant-dense fruits and vegetables. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/12/joe-urbach/
Thu, March 10, 2016
Sam Coffman on the Human Path
Sam Coffman has over 10 years of military experience as a U.S. Special Forces Medic, an interrogator and a linguist. He studied botany and bio-regional medicine both privately and at several outdoor schools in Colorado, and during his military service as a Green Beret Medic he logged thousands of hours in the field as a team medic, military emergency rooms and troop medical clinics. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/10/sam-coffman/
Tue, March 08, 2016
Roger Doiron on Seed Money
49: Roger Doiron on Seed Money Roger is founder and director of Kitchen Gardeners International, a Maine-based nonprofit network of over 35,000 individuals from 120 countries who are taking a hands-on approach to re-localizing the food supply. His work and ideas have been featured in the Chicago Tribune, International Herald Tribune, New York Times and the Washington Post. Roger’s successful proposal and petition campaign to replant a kitchen garden at the White House gathered over 100,000 signatures and international media coverage. He was voted the grand prize winner of the “On Day One” contest sponsored by the United Nations Foundation. Roger first became involved in food issues in Europe as head of Friends of the Earth’s European office in Brussels during the 1990s at the height of the Europe’s mad cow furor. He was also part of the American NGO delegation to the 2002 UN World Food Summit. He enjoys cooking, gardening and eating with his three Belgian-American boys Francois, Maxeemm, and Sebastian and his wife Jacqueline. For more links and resources go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/08/roger-doiron/
Sat, March 05, 2016
Doug Simons on Medicinal Plants
At 11 years old, Doug began learning about the native plants of Colorado from his mother. He has gained a vast amount of knowledge about edible and medicinal plants through his experiences living in the Sonoran Desert and Gila Wilderness of Southern New Mexico. He lived primitively for over 20 years and now teaches about primitive skills, medicinal plants and wild edibles. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/05/doug-simons/
Thu, March 03, 2016
Nathan Crane on the Search for Sustainability
Nathan Crane is an award winning author, inspirational speaker, and conscious filmmaker dedicated to helping make possible for every human being the possibility to live a healthy, sustainable, meaningful life. From addiction, dependency, jail, and homelessness, to a profound spiritual awakening becoming a highly sought after international entrepreneur of personal empowerment, Nathan found his life’s purpose in helping people experience more health, joy, and fulfillment in their lives -dissolving harmful habits and mental attachments – and experiencing physical, mental, emotional, financial and spiritual transformation. Nathan’s newest film series is titled, The Search for Sustainability. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/03/nathan-crane/
Tue, March 01, 2016
Ira Wallace on Seed Saving
46: Ira Wallace on Seed Saving Ira Wallace is an owner of the cooperative Southern Exposure Seed Exchange, an organization that helps people keep control of their food supply through seed saving and sustainable gardening. Ira is also a co-organizer of the Heritage Harvest Festival at Monticello, a fun, family-friendly event featuring an old-time seed swap, local food, and hands-on workshops and demos. Her book, The Timber Press Guide to Vegetable Gardening in the Southeast , is available online and at bookstores everywhere. For more links and resources on this podcast go to https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/03/01/ira-wallace/
Sat, February 27, 2016
Marjory Wildcraft on The Homegrown Food Summit
Marjory is the founder of the [Grow] Network, which is the online home of a global network of people who produce their own food and medicine. "Home grown food on every table" is the solution. Marjory was featured as an expert in sustainable living by National Geographic, she speaks at Mother Earth News Festivals, and is a regular guest on Coast to Coast AM. She is an author of several books, but is best known for her video series "Grow Your Own Groceries" which has over a half million copies in use by homesteaders, foodies, preppers, universities, and missionary organizations around the world. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/27/marjory-wildcraft/
Thu, February 25, 2016
Anna Steude on Mojo Garten
Anna Steude co-created Mojo Garten, a vertical garden kickstarter project that allows people grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs in small spaces. Her team wanted a way to bring more nature into their urban lifestyles and live more sustainably and self-sufficiently. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/25/anna-steude/
Tue, February 23, 2016
Sarica Cernohous on Traditional Foods for Optimal Health
Sarica Cernohous is a licensed acupuncturist in Arizona and California. Her formal education includes Traditional Oriental Medicine, Chinese Herbal medicine, the unique and involved theoretical construct of Asian medicine, western biomedicine, and both western and eastern perspectives on nutrition. She uses techniques such as fermentation and culturing, to low-heat dehydrating, to soaking and sprouting and the use of bone broths to create an environment suitable for optimal digestion. Check out ouw show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/23/sarica-cernohous/
Sat, February 20, 2016
Dave Young on Weather Prediction for Homesteaders
Cap’n Dave has been gardening since he was a kid, and his Dad taught him fishing, hunting, gardening… and the myriad skills of a self-reliant outdoorsman. He has been a SCUBA instructor and dive boat captain, has now been in professional aviation for over 2 decades, currently a pilot for the Governors of Florida. Cap’n Dave is also a certified permaculture designer. He has 6 acres out in the woods that he has been “food foresting” for a couple decades and “permaculturing” for 5 years. His main crop is blueberries and in addition to vegetables he raises rabbits, chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/20/dave-young/
Thu, February 18, 2016
Joel Karsten on Straw Bale Gardening
Joel is a farm boy who grew up tending a soil garden like others have for centuries, but he shook up the gardening world with his first book on his breakthrough concept, straw bale gardening. Joel earned a BS in Horticulture from the University of Minnesota and spends his summers tending his vegetable garden, doing research, and experimenting with new ideas and methods he can pass along to his followers. Joel has inspired tens of thousands of first-time gardeners and a legion of “seasoned” growers who have found a new and better way to pursue their passion. His methods have even enabled “retired” gardeners to begin gardening again since his method eliminates the physical challenges found in traditional soil gardening. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/18/joel-karsten/
Tue, February 16, 2016
Mark Ridsdill Smith on Gardening in Tiny Spaces
Mark is founder of Vertical Veg, an initiative that inspires and supports growing food in containers in small urban spaces (balconies, patios etc). Mark grew over $1,300 worth of food in one year on his small balcony and windowsills in London. He loves growing his own food, and is on a mission to promote the many health, community and environmental benefits of growing in containers at home. He runs workshops on food growing in containers, a website and an online club for container gardeners. Check our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/16/mark-ridsdill-smith/
Sat, February 13, 2016
Vynnie McDaniels on Water Wise Gardening
Vynnie McDaniels has been gardening in the Phoenix area for over 15 years, teaching organic gardening and holistic living. His handy work has graced the pages of Phoenix Home & Garden, Popular Mechanics, and Dwell magazines. He’s been on various local television programs (Your Life AtoZ & Sonoran Living Live), and was featured on Sundance Channel’s "Big Ideas for a Small Planet." Applying permaculture concepts and xeriscape principles, his vision is to teach and educate others on the joys of urban agriculture and self-reliance, growing your own food for improved nutrition and optimal wellness. Vynnie is currently developing Xericopia Urban Gardens, a hands-on learning space in downtown Phoenix. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/13/vynnie-mcdaniels/
Thu, February 11, 2016
Stephen Walden on Ergonomic Gardening Tools
Stephen is a 26-year-old entrepreneur with an MBA in Finance from Loyola Marymount University. Always inspired by entrepreneurs in his family, Walden decided to try his hand at inventing a new product when he was a senior in college. Upon graduation, Walden moved back to his hometown in Phoenix, AZ to start Bosse Tools to pursue his dream of inventing a product. Listen in to learn about his journey and why the ergonomic tools he invented are revolutionizing what it means to work in the garden. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/11/stephen-walden/
Tue, February 09, 2016
Justin Rhodes on Permaculture and Chickens
Justin Rhodes of Abundant Permaculture teaches others how to live a more sustainable life by teaching others how to live more sustainable lifestyles. Learn about his journey on today's episode of The Urban Farm Podcast. Hint- there is a little bit about chickens in here. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/09/justin-rhodes/
Sat, February 06, 2016
Ginger Duncan on Self-Sufficiency on Kodiak Island
Ginger Duncan has a fascinating lifestyle to share. Whether she's tending to her garden, raising animals, catching fish, foraging for wild edibles and medicinals, upcycling old materials, or making the open-ocean commute between town and her homestead, Ginger knows how to handle the elements and create simple abundance in one of the last wild places on Earth. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/06/ginger-duncan/
Thu, February 04, 2016
Danielle and Jordan Nuhfer on Raised Garden Beds
What Danielle and Jordan Nuhfer thought was going to be a simple vegetable garden turned into a space where neighbors shared their bounties and a place where they were able to connect with people who lived in the neighborhood and may never have met. They started Grow Your Own Freedom in order to share their urban farming know how with others, and plan to make their backyard an educational space. Cehck out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/04/danielle-and-jordan/
Tue, February 02, 2016
Jake Mace on The Best Fruit Trees in Warm Climates
Learn what urban farmer Jake Mace's 10 favorite trees are and why wood chips might just be the BEST thing you can do for your garden. Which trees give you the most bang for your buck? What are the most nutritious fruits to grow? Urban farmer Jake Mace weighs in on his Top 10 favorite trees to grow, some tree-growing tips, and what he loves about each of these trees. Jake's secret for growing thriving trees? Wood chips! Listen for how to use them and why he is convinced they may be the BEST thing you can do for your trees. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/02/02/jake-maces-10-favorite-trees-and-wood-chips/
Sat, January 30, 2016
Kari Spencer on Composting Made Easy
Kari is a popular local gardening & homesteading speaker. Both a Master Gardener and a Master Farmer, Kari enjoys sharing her passion for growing and raising food with others. In addition to teaching classes all over the city of Phoenix, she is a talented instructor and curriculum writer in the Urban Farming department at Southwest Institute of Healing Arts. Her family operates The Micro Farm Project, a small farm in North Phoenix, where gardens and livestock animals provide her family with fun and food. She loves to experiment with new ways to create a healthier, more self-reliant and sustainable lifestyle, and invites others to join her on the journey. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/30/kari-spencer-composting/
Fri, January 29, 2016
Leanne Philips on Life Energy Awakenings
Creator of Life Energy Awakenings, is a organic lifestyle and holistic health educator. Leanne is an inspired advocate for creating clean, deeply nourishing foods, and extends this into a full organic lifestyle. Over the last six years she has brought the message of “simplicity and stability” in our choices of environment, foods, and lifestyle. This has take the form of empowering health classes and activities. These classes include organic gardening, the wisdom of using pure essential oils , raw vegan foods, structured water and hydration, pet remedies, weight and emotional balance techniques. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/28/leanne-phillips/
Tue, January 26, 2016
31: JD Hill on Compost Collection with Bokashi
Today on the Urban Farm Podcast, we welcome a Phoenix local successful farmpreneur, JD Hill of Recycled City with his experience on composting. JD grew up in St. Michael, Minnesota, and arrived in Tempe, Arizona eager to earn his degree in business from Arizona State University. Upon graduating with his first Bachelor’s Degree in 2008, he realized there were not many jobs in finance, and ASU opened its School of Sustainability, so he continued on, earning a second Bachelor’s Degree in Sustainable business. He founded Recycled City 2 years ago and has over 500 customers! Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/26/jd-hill/
Sat, January 23, 2016
Stephen Ritz on Healthy Students, Schools and Communities
Stephen Ritz is a South Bronx teacher/administrator who believes that students shouldn't have to leave their community to live, learn and earn in a better one. Moving generations of students into spheres of personal and academic successes they have never imagined while reclaiming and rebuilding the Bronx, Stephen’s extended student and community family have grown over 25,000 pounds of vegetables in the Bronx while generating extraordinary academic performance. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/23/stephen-ritz/
Thu, January 21, 2016
Troy Albright on Growing Healthy Food without Soil
We are continuing the conversation on the evolutionary and truly remarkable tower gardens with our guest today Troy Albright founder and CEO of True Garden in Mesa, Arizona. He started True Garden, a solar powered greenhouse that spans 5000 square feet, designed to drastically reduce water consumption by 90% and use 90% less space than a conventional farm. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/21/troy-albright/
Tue, January 19, 2016
Renata Chalmers on Tower Gardens
She grew up gardening and farming. She had a farm and edible landscaping when she lived in Washington State. Then she moved to Arizona - Climate culture shock! After a couple of years, she gave up. She no longer had the energy to do it well. Until last spring, when she walked into True Garden in Mesa, Arizona, where she discovered the Tower Garden. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/19/renata-chalmers/
Sat, January 16, 2016
Sheri Menelli on Being an Earth Friendly Homeowner
Today, we are meeting with Sheri Menelli, a fellow podcaster and an Earth Friendly Homeowner and member of the Secrets of Soil Society. Sheri has a green garden group and teaches people how to turn their lawns into a drought-tolerant landscapes. Sheri wanted to create a podcast because “I know if we just had a way to get out some of the information that we knew out to the public, we’d have less pollution in our water, healthier soil and less damage from droughts and floods.” Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/16/sheri-menelli/
Thu, January 14, 2016
Christal Blessin on Using the Garden in the Kitchen
Christal is a writer, horticulturist, and cook. She spent many years in permaculture and interior scaping. Now, she blogs, with ongoing posts about how to start a garden from seed. She also includes recipes using techniques and ingredients that you can afford - all real food - good for you too! Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/14/christal-blessin/
Tue, January 12, 2016
Benjamin Fahrer on Permaculture as a Culture
Benjamin Fahrer is joining us today on the Urban Farm Podcast. Ben is the owner and operator of Top Leaf Farms and has over 18 years of organic farming experience. Prior to starting Topleaf farms a year ago, Ben worked with Josiah Cain, a well-known landscape architect known for vertical systems. Ben was called in to consult on a new project: To design and convert a living roof into a food roof.
Sat, January 09, 2016
Don Abbott on Urban Farming while Renting
The Snarky Gardener (AKA Don Abbott) is a gardener, blogger, author, educator, speaker, reluctant activist, and permaculture practitioner from Kent, Ohio. He became the Snarky Gardener, living in a rental property, when he had been a gardener for just a short time, but he had been snarky and sarcastic his whole life. In today's episode, Don discusses permaculture, Hugelkultur (a fascinating concept), and gardening while renting. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/09/don-abbott/
Thu, January 07, 2016
Diane Kennedy on Simple, Inexpensive Abundance
Today on the show we talk to Diane Kennedy of Finch Frolic Garden, a food forest habitat and demonstration site in San Diego County. Diane is a former Senior Park Ranger, tour guide for the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, librarian, independent baker, and a long-time vegetarian, organic gardener, freelance writer, and activist. Along with her daughter Miranda, she lectures, gives tours of her food forest, consults, designs and in all ways promotes permaculture. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/07/diane-kennedy/
Tue, January 05, 2016
Peter Burke on Indoor Salad Gardening
Peter Burke is the author of Year-Round Indoor Salad Gardening. He has been teaching garden classes since 2006, when he started presenting workshops on Indoor Salad Gardening, Square Foot Gardening, Extending the Garden Season, and many more. He also started TheDailyGardener.com to support the need for specialized seeds for Indoor Salad Gardening. Peter believes that with nothing more than a cupboard and a windowsill, you can grow all the fresh salad greens you need for the winter months (or throughout the entire year) with no lights, no pumps, and no greenhouse. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/05/peter-burke/
Sat, January 02, 2016
Haley Cloud on Learning about Raw Foods
Have any food-related resolutions for 2016? I sure do, and Haley Cloud is an amazing example for foodies everywhere. Today on The Urban Farm Podcast Haley talks about Living Raw By Grace and her experience with a raw food diet. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2016/01/02/haley-cloud/
Thu, December 31, 2015
20: Matt Gordon on Rogue Farm Corps
20: Matt Gordon on Rogue Farm Corps and Cully Neighborhood Garden Matt is an urban farming rockstar in Portland, Oregon. He not only is in charge of Cully Neighborhood Farm's CSA, but also the chapter coordinator for Rogue Farm Corps, a non-profit dedicated to training the next generation of farmers through hands-on farm internships in Oregon. Check it out! Check out our show notes page at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/31/matt-gordon/
Tue, December 29, 2015
Justin Cutter on a School Garden on Wheels
Justin is dedicated to making the world a better place and it shows in all that he does. In today's episode, Justin shares how he has reached out to 36,000 students in 30 states through Compass Green, a school garden on wheels. From three years as a monk in India to living and working on a schooner in Hawaii, to working as Co-Director of Programs in Japan for the David Lynch Foundation, he has always pursued work for the betterment of humankind and the environment. In 2009 and 2010, Justin helped found the Green Belt Team for teaching Biointensive sustainable farming in developing nations, and set up the mini-farm site for their internship on California’s Mendocino Coast.
Tue, December 29, 2015
19: Justin Cutter on a School Garden on Wheels
Justin is dedicated to making the world a better place and it shows in all that he does. In today's episode, Justin shares how he has reached out to 36,000 students in 30 states through Compass Green, a school garden on wheels. From three years as a monk in India to living and working on a schooner in Hawaii, to working as Co-Director of Programs in Japan for the David Lynch Foundation, he has always pursued work for the betterment of humankind and the environment. In 2009 and 2010, Justin helped found the Green Belt Team for teaching Biointensive sustainable farming in developing nations, and set up the mini-farm site for their internship on California’s Mendocino Coast. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/29/justin-cutter/
Sat, December 26, 2015
Bill McDorman on Playful Plant Breeding
18: Bill McDorman on Playful Plant Breeding Today on The Urban Farm Podcast we have Bill McDorman to talk about seeds and playful plant breeding! Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He authored the book, Basic Seed Saving, in 1994. In 2010, he and his wife Belle Starr created Seed School, a nationally recognized weeklong training. He served as Executive Director of Native Seeds/SEARCH from 2011 to 2014. Bill McDorman is Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed movement while in college in 1979 when he helped start Garden City Seeds. In 1984, Bill started Seeds Trust/High Altitude Gardens, a mail order seed company he ran successfully until it sold in 2013. He authored the book, Basic Seed Saving, in 1994. In 2010, he and his wife Belle Starr created Seed School, a nationally recognized weeklong training. He served as Executive Director of Native Seeds/SEARCH from 2011 to 2014. Bill is a passionate and knowledgeable presenter who inspires his audiences to learn to save their own seeds. To find more links and resources for this podcast go to http://www.urbanfarm.org/blog/2015/12/26/bill-mcdorman/
Thu, December 24, 2015
David Burns and Austin Young Fruit Trees on Public Property
David Burns and Austin Young talk about the placement of fruit trees throughout urban spaces as a means to cultivate community and food security. Fallen Fruit is a collaborative art project that began in Los Angeles in 2004 with mapping public fruit–fruit that grows on or over public property. Our projects include diverse site-specific artworks that embrace public participation. Fallen Fruit’s art works encourage the public to experience their city as a fruitful, generous place, inviting people to engage in sharing and collectively explore the meaning of community and collaboration through public participation and exhibition projects. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/24/david-burns-and-austin-young/
Tue, December 22, 2015
Jim Dennis on Returning to a Sustainable Lifestyle
Today on The Urban Farm Podcast we Jim Dennis from Farm Phoenix, a featured farmer here to expand on his urban farming journey. Jim was raised on a farm that had one foot in the past and one in the future. Leaving that place, he spent a long time in cities and the corporate world, and eventually returned to his roots. Jim’s business is to help people learn the ways of gardening and adapting to a sustainable lifestyle. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/22/jim-dennis/
Sat, December 19, 2015
Casey Hay on Gardening as a Tool for Special Education
15: Casey Hay on Gardening as a Tool for Special Education Today on The Urban Farm Podcast we have Casey Hay to talk about gardening as a tool for special education and student partnerships! One of Casey’s personal missions is to educate our up-and-coming generations with knowledge that is attainable for all learning styles. She currently works in a self-contained Special Education classroom at Curry Elementary in the Tempe School District. She has introduced the "Kindness Matters" garden project, which she originally created in 2013, to the school Special Ed program. This program builds self-confidence and pride in the students by walking them through all the steps of planting and maintaining a garden from seed, also providing the opportunity to connect general education and special education students together. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/19/casey-hay/
Thu, December 17, 2015
James Barilla on Bringing the Natural World to the Back Yard
James is the author of two nonfiction books, including My Backyard Jungle: The Adventures of an Urban Wildlife Lover Who Turned His Yard into Habitat and Learned to Live with It. In his writing he explores what it means to be human in the natural world. His work has also appeared in print and online in The New York Times, The Atlantic, National Geographic and Conservation as well as numerous other publications, and he has appeared on a variety of national public radio shows. Jim currently serves as a creative and environmental writing professor at the University of South Carolina.
Thu, December 17, 2015
14: James Barilla on Bringing the Natural World to the Back Yard
James is the author of two nonfiction books, including My Backyard Jungle: The Adventures of an Urban Wildlife Lover Who Turned His Yard into Habitat and Learned to Live with It. In his writing he explores what it means to be human in the natural world. His work has also appeared in print and online in The New York Times, The Atlantic, National Geographic and Conservation as well as numerous other publications, and he has appeared on a variety of national public radio shows. Jim currently serves as a creative and environmental writing professor at the University of South Carolina. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/17/james-barilla/
Tue, December 15, 2015
Katharina Unger on Insect Farming
Table top farming of edible insects Katharina grew up raising chickens, cows and horses on the border of Austria and Hungary. Noticing the dramatic state of our food system while living in Hong Kong, she is now determined to ‘design nature for humans’ and her first product that she is developing with her company Livin Farms is the world’s first tabletop device for edible insects. Katharina is a Fulbright alumna and an award winning industrial designer. In this podcast: Think bugs are disgusting to eat? Think again! Did you know that mealworms are edible AND one of the best sources of protein out there? It sounds crazy, but when you listen to this podcast with Katharina Unger from Livin Farms, you might just be converted. Listen today as award-winning industrial designer Katharina shares her latest project: the world’s first tabletop device for edible insects. Check out our show notes https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/15/katharina-unger/
Sat, December 12, 2015
Julian Jaquez on Aquaponics for the Beginner
Julian was born and raised in Bakersfield, California. After graduating from college he experimented with various entrepreneurial projects and eventually found his niche in urban farming and self-sustainable technology. He started his first garden after a year of preparation and was soon motivated to expand his work to include more urban farming projects. He is currently preparing to build a self-sustainable micro-farm. In this episode of The Urban Farm Podcast, Julian shares about the successes and struggles that come with being a self-starter and urban farming beginner. Check out out show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/12/julian-jacquez/
Thu, December 10, 2015
Scott Murray on Avocado Farming
11: Scott Murray on Avocado Farming Scott has 42 years of organic agricultural production experience in the United States and Mexico. He has a multitude of experience with conservation, food production, and environmental leadership—including serving as an elected California Conservation official for the last 22 years and president of South Coast Resource Conservation and Development Council. Scott also specializes in farmland preservation projects utilizing Smart Growth Principles. He joins us today to share his experience and talk about avocado farming. Check out our show notes at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/10/scott-murray/
Tue, December 08, 2015
Julia McGuire on Urban Beekeeping
Julia McGuire has kept bees in her backyard since 2008 and expanded to keeping bees in other people's yards in 2013. She coordinates her local bee club, and currently works for the Iowa Honey Producers Association as an agency relations specialist and belongs to its District 4 Education Team. She joins us on today's show to share tips on natural and successful beekeeping. Check out our show notes https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/08/julia-mcguire/
Sat, December 05, 2015
Barry and Catherine Cohen on Bartering
Today's guests are Barry and Catherine Cohen from Together 24/7--a fun and informative podcast that talks to entrepreneurial couples that live and work together 24/7. They talk about the value of bartering as a community solution. Tune in to hear what they've learned from over 10 years in the bartering business. Check out our show notes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/05/barry-and-catherine/
Thu, December 03, 2015
Lisa Steele on Fresh Eggs Daily
8: Lisa Steele on Fresh Eggs Daily After graduating from college and doing a short stint on Wall Street, Lisa Steele returned to her rural roots and is now living on a farm in Maine with her husband, their flock of chickens and ducks, two dogs, and a barn cat. A fifth generation chicken keeper, Lisa encourages others to raise their own chickens naturally without using antibiotics or chemicals. Also an aspiring herbalist, she incorporates herbs, weeds and edible flowers into the daily care of her flock and shares this advice on her blog and Facebook page, Fresh Eggs Daily. She has also written a book by the same name—which she’s here to talk about today—and a sequel called Duck Eggs Daily: Raising Happy, Healthy Ducks .! Check out our show notes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/03/lisa-steele/
Tue, December 01, 2015
Michael Olson on 2x2 Pledge
Michael Olson joins us on The Urban Farm Podcast to talk about his experience in agricultural consulting and avocado farming. Michael cultivated his first crop at the age of six and has since been all over the world with his work. Michael also joins us today to share his 2x2 Pledge... listen in to find out more! Check out our show notes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/12/01/michael-olson/
Sat, November 28, 2015
Paul Dysinger on Winter Growing on a Budget
6: Paul Dysinger on Winter Growing on a Budget Paul Dysinger is the founder of Born to Grow and the brand new Garden Launch membership community where he enjoys teaching people how to grow their own healthy, nutrient dense, organic food. He lives with his family on Bountiful Blessings Farm where they serve the community year-round with fresh veggies, herbs, and berries. Paul joins us from Bountiful Blessings Farm in Tennessee to share some winter growing techniques that will protect your plants without leaving you broke! Paul is the founder of Born To Grow and the brand new Garden Launch Membership Community. Find out more about his work, winter growing on a budget, and his Garden Launch Membership Community in this podcast! Check out our shownotes for more links and resources at http://www.urbanfarm.org/blog/2015/11/28/paul-dysinger/
Thu, November 26, 2015
Asking "What is Urban Farming to You?
Have you ever wondered what urban farming really is? In what ways does urban farming add value to your life and community? In this episode of The Urban Farm Podcast, you'll hear from various special guests including Jason Mraz who address these questions in terms of their own urban farming experiences. Check out our show notes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/11/26/what-is-urban-farming/
Tue, November 24, 2015
4: Chad Hudspeth on Aquaponics for Commercial to Hobby Growers
4: Chad Hudspeth on Aquaponics for Commercial to Hobby Growers Chad Hudspeth joins us on The Urban Farm Podcast to discuss his background in agriculture and his work in Aquaponics. He shares valuable information about Aquaponics, which is the art or practice of growing fish and plants together in a closed-loop water system, and ways that listeners can start or improve their very own system. In addition to teaching online and in-person classes on Aquaponics, Chad is also founder of Endless Food Systems, which provides turn-key modular Aquaponic kits for commercial and hobby growers. Chad has appeared on national television, several radio shows, and many magazines, and teaches the Urban Farm U "Aquaponics Revealed" online course. You don't want to miss this conversation! Check out our shownotes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/11/24/chad-hudspeth/
Mon, November 16, 2015
Kari Spencer on Urban Homesteading
Today's show features Kari Spencer of the Microfarm Project in Phoenix, Arizona. She shares what her journey was like to create a successful monetized farm and why she's passionate about her local food system. Kari is a rockstar and you'll love hearing about what drives her! Check out our shownotes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/11/10/002-kari-spencer/
Wed, November 04, 2015
Jake Mace on Creating a Luscious Food Forest
Jake Mace is an urban farmer in Tempe, Arizona. He is known for integrating lessons on health and agriculture, and teaches farming and martial arts classes. Jake also has a YouTube channel where he discusses life as a gardener and a vegan athlete, and shares practical tips for others to share in his success. Check out our shownotes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/11/05/001-jake-mace/
Sun, November 01, 2015
Welcome to the Urban Farm Podcast!
Introducing The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson! In this episode you'll hear from your host about his urban farming journey and why he's excited to present this new urban farming podcast as a resource for you! Prepare to be connected with tools, tips, tricks, and information as you grow in confidence and connections, and grow your own food. Check out our shownotes for more links and resources at https://www.urbanfarm.org/2015/11/05/000-welcome-to-the-urban-farm-podcast/
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