Hands in the Soil

In this episode, we sit down with David Berning of Cardiff Tiny Farm for a return conversation, two years after his first appearance on the podcast.David shares what has unfolded since stepping fully into stewardship of the farm, and what it’s been like to grow not just food, but a business, a community space, and a deeper relationship with the land. What began as a small, uncertain venture has evolved into a thriving micro-farm model - one that challenges assumptions about scale, profitability, and what’s possible on a tenth of an acre.We explore the intersection of heart and business - what it means to hold integrity while also making something financially viable, and the realities of running a farm as both a livelihood and a calling.David also opens up about the uncertainty of the farm’s future, as the land he’s stewarding is temporary. With the possibility of losing the space at any time, he shares how he’s approaching this season with intention, focusing on building community, expanding his CSA program, and creating something that can live beyond the land itself.We also touch on Harmonize, a data-tracking tool David built to support farmers in the field, and his vision for how technology and agriculture can coexist in a more intentional, human-centered way.More than anything, this episode is a reflection on what it means to devote yourself to something uncertain, and to choose to create beauty anyway.In this episode, we talk about:David’s journey from tech into agriculture and the origins of Cardiff Tiny FarmWhat it looks like to run a farm as a real businessThe balance between integrity, community, and profitabilityThe concept of “farming in public” and transparency in small farm economicsHow a 1/10 acre farm can feed a communityThe realities of scaling a small farm sustainablyNavigating uncertainty and impermanence in land accessBuilding a CSA model that goes beyond food into education and connectionThe importance of local food and its impact on personal and community wellbeingHarmonize: a tool for farmers to track data simply and efficientlyWhy creating beauty anywhere is meaningful workConnect + Learn More: Follow David on Instagram: ⁠@cardifftinyfarmLearn more about Cardiff Tiny Farm ⁠⁠https://www.cardifftinyfarm.com⁠⁠Try Harmonize (data tracking tool)⁠⁠ https://harmonize.one⁠⁠Connect with Hannah: ⁠@hannahkeitel ⁠Foundations in Land Stewardship:If you’ve been feeling called to deepen your relationship with land, food, and community, we are currently enrolling for Foundations in Land Stewardship - a 3-month in-person farm school here in San Diego.This program is designed for aspiring farmers, land stewards, and anyone wanting to reconnect with food systems in a meaningful way. Saturdays from 9-2May 2nd through August 1stFull scholarships availableDavid will be one of our teachers throughout the program.You can find more details and apply here: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.handsinthesoil.farm/farmschool⁠d

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, I’m joined by Hernan Cavazos, co-founder of Solidarity Farm and a longtime grower, mentor, and community builder in San Diego’s farming ecosystem.Hernan shares his journey into agriculture, which began with a desire to grow nourishing food for his family and evolved into over a decade of cultivating diversified crops, raising animals, and helping train the next generation of farmers. What started as a small project has grown into a place of learning, experimentation, and community.We explore what human-scale farming means, why it matters, and how it offers a path toward more resilient, localized food systems. Hernan speaks to the importance of having many small farms working together, rather than relying on large-scale industrial systems, and the role that cooperation plays in building a sustainable future for agriculture.This conversation also touches on tools, efficiency, and the realities of farming today. We talk about how small farms can thoughtfully use technology without losing connection to the land, and what tools actually make a difference in day-to-day operations.In this episode, we talk about:Hernan’s journey into agriculture and the origins of Solidarity FarmWhat “small-scale” or “human-scale” farming really meansWhy localized, cooperative farming systems are key to resilienceThe role of tools and technology in small farm efficiencyFavorite tools for small farms (including seeders, prep rakes, and two-wheel tractors)The current state of regenerative agriculture, and why it must remain farmer-ledChallenges facing new farmers, especially in CaliforniaThe importance of mentorship, experience, and “playing the long game”The role of co-ops and collaboration in the future of farmingConnect + Learn More: Follow Solidarity Farm on Instagram: @solidarityfarmConnect with Hannah: @hannahkeitel Foundations in Land Stewardship:If you’ve been feeling the call to get your hands in the soil and learn in community, we are hosting an in-person farm school program here in San Diego called Foundations in Land Stewardship.This is a three-month immersive program for those looking to get into farming, land stewardship, or deepen their relationship with land and food systems.We begin on May 2nd, and Hernan will be one of the farm teachers throughout the program, offering a rare opportunity to learn directly from his years of experience.You can find more details and apply here: ⁠⁠https://www.handsinthesoil.farm/farmschool⁠

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, I’m joined by Jessica Sanchez - an Earth Tender whose work is rooted in the understanding that the land holds the answers.Jessica shares how her journey into agriculture began with activism, and the winding road that brought her to Madre Sanctuary. What started as growing food has become something much deeper - cultivating spaces where people can reconnect with themselves, each other, and the land.We talk about what it really means to steward land, especially land that has been shaped by industrial systems, and what it takes to transition it into something living, reciprocal, and regenerative. Jessica speaks to the patience required, the challenges of that process, and the deeper vision that continues to guide her work.This conversation is also about identity, courage, and trust; about leaving behind more conventional paths and listening to what’s calling you forward. She speaks about embracing your uniqueness, and recognizing that the way you’re meant to contribute is already within you.Jessica’s work reminds us that tending the land is not separate from tending ourselves, and that when we begin to repair one, we begin to repair the other.In this episode, we talk about:How the Zapatista movement informed Jessica’s personal philosophyThe evolution from Terra Madre Gardens to Madre SanctuaryTransitioning land from industrial use to regenerative systemsWhat land stewardship really means in practiceThe role of patience, time, and relationship in regenerative workCultivating not just food, but culture, healing, and belongingLeaving conventional paths and trusting a different way forwardEmbracing your uniqueness as part of your contributionThe connection between tending land and tending selfConnect + Learn More:Madre Sanctuary / Terra Madre Gardens:https://www.terramadregardens.com/Follow Jessica on Instagram: @madresanctuary.healing.gardensApply for the Foundations in Land Stewardship Program: ⁠https://www.handsinthesoil.farm/farmschool⁠Follow Hannah on Instagram: ⁠@hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined once again by farmer, mentor, and collaborator Cathryn Henning to introduce a project that has been months in the making: the Foundations in Land Stewardship Program, a hands-on farm school based in San Diego.We share the story behind how this program came to life, the gap it’s designed to fill, and why land-based education is more needed now than ever. Drawing from our lived experiences as farmers, we explore what it truly means to steward land in a way that is reciprocal, values-driven, and rooted in community.This conversation is both an invitation and ultimately a vision - one that extends beyond San Diego - calling in a new generation of farmers, land stewards, and engaged community members to participate in rebuilding our relationship with land and food systems.Tune in to learn more about:Why there is a growing need for accessible, land-based educationThe inspiration behind creating a farm school in San DiegoWhat it really takes to step into farming (beyond the romanticized version)The structure of the program, including hands-on learning, mentorship, and integration sessionsHow diverse farming practices and perspectives shape a more resilient food systemThe importance of building a shared language around land stewardshipHow community support can help farms (and farmers) truly thriveWhat it means to be in relationship with land through values like reciprocity and careAbout the Program:The Foundations in Land Stewardship Program is a three-month, in-person farm school designed to support those entering or deepening their relationship with land and food systems.Students will:Visit multiple farms across San Diego CountyLearn directly from experienced farmers and land stewardsParticipate in hands-on activities and real-world applicationsEngage in integration sessions to process and apply what they’re learningReceive mentorship and support on a personal projectThe program runs from May 2nd to August 1st, with classes held on Saturdays from 9am–2pm. Applications are open, with limited scholarships available. Connect + Learn More:Apply for the Foundations in Land Stewardship Program: https://www.handsinthesoil.farm/farmschoolFollow Hannah on Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on the importance of rest, both in our bodies and within the ecosystems we care for. As winter settles in, it’s vital to remember that this season naturally invites us to slow down, retreat inward, and regenerate, even as our culture encourages the opposite. Through the lens of gardening and seasonal wisdom, I examine how our industrial food system has all but eliminated rest, and what that teaches us about imbalance in ourselves. Whether you’re feeling stretched thin by holiday demands or simply craving permission to pause, this episode offers a gentle reminder that it’s okay to slow down.Tune in to learn more about:Why winter invites us to slow down and go inwardHow cultural expectations clash with natural seasonal rhythmsThe value of rest in the garden, and why abundance depends on itWhat the industrial food system reveals about exhaustion and extractionRecognizing your body’s cues for restWhy I don’t celebrate the “new year” on January 1stHow creating spaciousness nurtures creativity and clarityAnd on that note, we’ll be taking a break from the podcast until January 2026. Happy holidays, and we'll see you on the other side! Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel 

In this episode, we explore one of the most common and complex questions I hear: Can organic agriculture really feed the world?With so much skepticism surrounding sustainable farming, we take a data-informed look at what this question really means, and what’s hidden between the lines. I break down why the data often appears skewed, how conventional yields decline over time, and why the conversation about global food supply must include issues of distribution, waste, and sovereignty.I encourage you to expand your perspective beyond yield numbers to the deeper systems that determine how food is produced, valued, and shared. What kind of food are we really talking about when we ask whether organic agriculture can “feed the world”? And could it be that we already grow more than enough?Tune in to learn more about:Why skepticism around organic agriculture persistsHow to read between the lines of agricultural dataThe difference between productivity and true sustainabilityWhy conventional yields decline over timeThe importance of biodiversity and soil healthThe global reality of food waste and inequitable distributionHow efficiency in the current system hides deep inefficiencyWhat food sovereignty really means, and why it mattersWhy regenerative and organic agriculture aren’t just possible, but essential... And so much more! Connect with Hannah:Instagram: ⁠@hannahkeitel

In this special milestone episode of Hands in the Soil, we celebrate 50 episodes of the podcast (and my birthday!), and reflect on my journey through farming, community, and personal transformation. We’re joined by my best friend, Shannon, who steps in as guest interviewer. Our conversation touches on identity, purpose, and the evolving meaning of sustainability. I share how getting my hands in the soil has shaped my worldview, the importance of building community through generosity, and why growing food is one of the most profound ways to reconnect with life itself. Whether you’re tuning in for the first time or if you’ve been here since the beginning, I want you to know how grateful I am for your support. Thank you for joining me! Tune in to learn more about:Reflections on 50 episodes and the journey of the Hands in the Soil podcastMy connection to nature, and what farming has taught meNavigating imposter syndrome and self-doubt in the agricultural spaceThe real meaning of sustainability, and how it’s often misunderstoodHow growing food transforms relationships with nourishment and selfBuilding community through generosity and shared abundanceSimple ways to start your own connection with the land… And so much more!Connect with Shannon:Website: https://www.shannonkeating.com/Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined by Tommy Tickenoff, co-founder and self-proclaimed “Chief Nut” of Fresh Vintage Farms. Based in California’s Central Valley, Tommy and his wife Tara launched Fresh Vintage Farms in 2019 with a mission to craft premium, cold-pressed nut oils while reducing agricultural waste and redefining what quality looks like in a sustainable food system.Tommy brings humor and honesty to a nuanced conversation about the almond industry, which is one that’s often misunderstood and criticized for its water usage and impact on pollinators. We unpack the myths surrounding almond farming, explore how growers are adapting to new environmental challenges, and highlight the importance of transparency and consumer education in agriculture.The discussion also touches on Fresh Vintage Farms’ innovative approach to upcycling and product development, including their small-batch almond oil mayonnaise and other cold-pressed creations made entirely from locally grown nuts. Through it all, Tommy emphasizes that sustainability in farming is a continuous process of learning, improving, and caring for the land.Tune in to learn more about:What sustainability means within the almond industryCommon myths and misconceptions about almond farmingHow California almond growers have reduced water use and improved efficiencyThe crucial role of bees and pollinator health in almond productionThe balance between organic certification and practical sustainabilityHow consumer education builds trust and transparency in the food systemThe future of sustainable agriculture in California’s Central Valley… And so much more!Tommy’s Resources & Links:Website: freshvintagefarms.comInstagram: @fresh_vintage_farmsLinkedIn: Fresh Vintage FarmsConnect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of the show, we're joined by three incredible leaders working at the intersection of food justice, land access, and community empowerment: Kristina Villa of the Farmers Land Trust, and Femeika Elliott and Laila Malik of the Rooted East Knoxville Collective.Throughout this conversation, we explore the Farmland Commons model and Rooted East’s grassroots work to restore power to East Knoxville residents through food, land, and housing justice. The conversation dives into the systemic barriers that marginalized communities face in accessing farmland and nourishing food, while also highlighting the innovative solutions that are already being implemented on the ground.From food apartheid and land stewardship to storytelling, collaboration, and long-term commitment, this discussion underscores the importance of community sufficiency and the ways we can collectively create just and regenerative food systems.Tune in to learn more about:The Farmers Land Trust and how the Farmland Commons model supports equitable land accessRooted East’s mission to address food apartheid and empower residents in East KnoxvilleThe history of land, housing, and community challenges in East TennesseeWhy community sufficiency is central to food justiceThe importance of collaboration among diverse organizationsHow storytelling preserves agricultural history and uplifts community voicesThe role of long-term commitment in building truly sustainable systemsA vision for food, land, and housing justice rooted in solidarity… And so much more!Guest Resources & Links:Learn more about Rooted East Knoxville: linktr.ee/rootedeastknoxFollow Rooted East: @rootedeastknoxFollow The Farmers Land Trust: ⁠@thefarmerslandtrustConnect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we sit down with Rachel Nafis, owner of Psalter Farm Flowers in San Diego, CA. Since 2019, Rachel and her team have been growing flowers for a 66-member CSA, local flower shops, and event florists across eight neighborhood gardens—all located right in her community.Rachel shares her journey into agriculture, including the transition from working as an RN to managing a 40-acre vegetable ranch, and ultimately shifting into her innovative urban flower farming model. She offers an honest look at the pros and cons of growing in small, unconventional spaces, and why collaboration and creativity are essential to her farm’s success. We also explore the role of community in this model, how neighborhood gardens foster connection, and why flowers bring a unique kind of joy and meaning to her work.Tune in to learn more about:Rachel’s journey from nursing to farmingHow Psalter Farm Flowers began and evolved into an urban modelThe pros and cons of urban flower farmingTips for efficiency and creativity in small growing spacesWhy collaboration is central to her “flexible farming model”The role of community engagement and land literacy in urban agricultureRachel’s favorite flowers to grow and why they inspire herAdvice for aspiring urban farmers navigating challenges and opportunities… And so much more!Rachel’s Resources & Links:Website: psalterfarmflowers.comInstagram: @psalterfarmflowersConnect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today’s episode, I’m back with a short personal update with where I’m at now in my farming journey. I offer a window into my approach to starting a farm, and share what I’ve learned so far. Tune in to learn more about:Navigating the back-end pieces of starting a farm, from infrastructure to business models The barriers between young farmers and land accessThe world of land trusts and mutually supportive farming models Why I don’t agree with the transactional nature of buying land The challenges of being a vegetable farmer How long it typically takes for farmers to make a profit Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this short episode, we explore the tagline of this show - the intricate connection between humans and the planet. I share about my life-changing journey through traditional organic agriculture in India, Nepal, and Europe. I reflect on the insights gained during my travels, and share a poem that encapsulates my experiences and the wisdom of nature.Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today's episode, we dive into the rich world of permaculture, a holistic design system rooted in ecological principles and sustainable living. We’re joined by Josh Robinson: a father, partner, gardener, farmer, teacher, and ecological instigator with over 20 years of experience designing, installing, and teaching about ecologically abundant gardens, homes, farms, and businesses.Josh is recognized throughout the Southwestern US as a leader in water harvesting and permaculture, and holds a Master’s Degree in Ecological Landscape Design. He is the co-founder of Ecology Artisans, a design and installation firm behind numerous farms and food forests across Southern California. Today, Josh shares his personal journey into permaculture, and reminds us that individuals can, and do, make a positive impact.We explore how permaculture emphasizes observation, local adaptation, and biodiversity to solve complex problems in both agricultural and social systems. You’ll hear about the creation of a permaculture farm, the value of integrating diverse crops, and how intentional design allows humans to become positive contributors to ecosystems.Whether you're a seasoned grower, a community organizer, or just beginning your sustainability journey, this episode offers tangible inspiration and insights for reconnecting with the land and living more in tune with ecological systems.Tune in to learn more about:What permaculture is and how it functions as a holistic design systemHow observing local ecosystems informs sustainable land useThe intersection of permaculture, agriculture, and social changeCreating resilience through diversity in crops and practicesHow permaculture education and design courses empower local communitiesThe importance of collaboration in successful permaculture projectsJosh’s vision for ecological design and how individuals can create meaningful change… And so much more!Josh's Resources & Links:Website: www.ThePermacultureLab.comInstagram: @ThePermacultureLabConnect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this solo episode, I encourage you to reimagine your relationship with weeds. Yep, those wild, inconvenient plants we pull from our gardens without a second thought.After a morning of weeding at the farm, I reflected on the resilience and overlooked brilliance of plants like dandelions. What if we saw these plants as the generous healers and soil restorers that they are? Perhaps we’ve forgotten their role in the ecosystem?This episode is a gentle reminder of the medicine, wisdom, and ecological function that weeds offer. From their deep taproots that dredge up vital micronutrients, to their presence in the most toxic soils, weeds are often regenerating the land beneath our feet, and showing us where balance is needed.Tune in to learn more about:Why “weed” is more of a label than a true classificationThe ecological function of dandelions and other deep-rooted wild plantsHow weeds help loosen compacted soil and make nutrients available to other plantsA new way to see wild plants as allies, not enemies… And so much more!Connect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we speak with Claire Groebner, Associate Director at Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center, about the intersection of food justice, environmental realities, and grassroots solutions. Based in National City, California, Claire brings over a decade of experience in food systems work, resource organizing, and community-led advocacy.Claire shares her journey from volunteer to organizational leadership and how Olivewood Gardens has become a hub for health education, environmental stewardship, and systemic change. The conversation explores food apartheid and the structural forces that shape access to nourishment, the impact of environmental and policy decisions on food equity, and how gardens can act as catalysts for empowerment.We also dive into the transformative model of Community-Centric Fundraising, which reframes charity into justice and reimagines what sustainable, relational, and values-aligned fundraising can look like.Tune in to learn more about:The difference between food justice and food charityClaire's personal journey into food systems and advocacyThe history and ongoing impact of food apartheidHow Olivewood Gardens integrates education, policy, and collective actionCommunity-Centric Fundraising as a tool for equity and accountabilityThe role of community voice and leadership in program designWhy systemic change begins with collective care… And so much more!Guest Resources & Links: Visit Olivewood Gardens: olivewoodgardens.orgLearn about Community-Centric Fundraising: communitycentricfundraising.orgFollow Claire & Olivewood: @olivewoodgardensConnect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we sit down with flower farmer and community visionary Cathryn Henning of Bee Worthy Farms for a deeply honest and hopeful conversation about what it really takes to make small-scale farming viable in today’s world. Now in her third year in business, and with nearly a decade of experience in non-profit farming, Cathryn is all about adapting her work in a shifting culture and climate, while growing community alongside crops.We unpack the layers of burnout, joy, beauty, and strategy that go into running a land-based business that is both regenerative and financially sustainable. Cathryn shares her journey from milking goats to running a flower farm in San Diego, and how she’s redefined success through practices of reciprocity, seasonal alignment, and community care.We explore how ease can be cultivated not by chasing external markers of success, but by building internal and relational systems that support longevity, on the land and within ourselves. You’ll also hear the origin story of Bloom Club, Cathryn’s newest community-supported model that invites people into direct, reciprocal relationship with her farm.Whether you're a land steward, aspiring grower, or someone dreaming of a more connected way of living, this episode is a beautiful exploration of farming as lifestyle, livelihood, and love letter to the Earth.Tune in to learn more about:Why Cathryn pivoted from vegetables to flowers, and the hidden hustle of eachHow reciprocity shows up in land stewardship and business decisionsThe myth of the “struggling farmer” and how to reframe itBuilding community into your business without losing yourselfAligning your farm operations with the seasons (and your nervous system)The vision behind Bloom Club and reimagining agritourismPractical ways farmers can invite support, set boundaries, and avoid burnoutResources & Links:Bee Worthy Farms WebsiteFollow Cathryn: @beeworthyfarmsBloom Club: Member-only access pass to the farm to reconnect—with nature, creativity, learning, and the quiet magic of seasonal rhythmsConnect with Hannah: @hannahkeitel

In this solo episode of Hands in the Soil, we return to a commonly misunderstood topic in the food system: does certified organic mean pesticide-free? Building on a previous episode released a year ago, I dive deeper into the nuances of pesticide use in organic agriculture to clarify what the organic label really means—and what it doesn’t.I explain the difference between organic and synthetic pesticides, how regulations work under organic certification, and why it's still essential to ask questions about where your food comes from. I also explore how integrated pest management and regenerative practices can help farms reduce or even eliminate pesticide use altogether.Tune in to learn more about:Why certified organic doesn’t mean pesticide-freeThe difference between synthetic and organic pesticidesHow some synthetic pesticides are still allowed in organic certification (and why that matters)The loophole of EPA conditional registration and toxicity testing gapsIntegrated Pest Management (IPM) and alternatives to pesticide useHow farm scale, soil health, and biodiversity impact pest controlCritiques of organic certification and the difference between small regenerative farms and large-scale organic monoculturesWhy knowing your farmer is often more valuable than any labelResources & Links:Connect with Hannah: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined by Dr. Kaitlin Reed (Yurok/Hupa/Oneida), an enrolled member of the Yurok Tribe and associate professor of Native American Studies at Cal Poly Humboldt. Dr. Reed also serves as the Co-Director of the Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab and Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute - the first lab of its kind in the California State University system.Dr. Reed shares the story behind this student-led initiative, which provides a groundbreaking space to engage with Indigenous sciences, collaborate with tribal nations, and amplify Indigenous bio-cultural sovereignty. We explore the meaning and depth of food sovereignty, why it matters beyond access and insecurity, and how the Lab is creating pathways for environmental justice, cultural revitalization, and community healing.We also celebrate the Lab’s recent recognition as a 2025 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award recipient - a $350,000 grant supporting the Lab’s continued work advancing Indigenous knowledge and food systems.Tune in to learn more about:The Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab and its student-led foundingWhat sets this Lab apart in the CSU system and Western academiaHow Indigenous food sovereignty differs from mainstream food access modelsCultural, ecological, and spiritual dimensions of traditional food systemsHow the Lab operates with grassroots support and community programmingThe significance of receiving the James Irvine Foundation AwardFuture visions for the Lab, including an Indigenous Food NetworkHow students, communities, and allies can get involved… And so much more!Resources & Links: Learn more about the Food Sovereignty Lab: nasp.humboldt.edu/fslConnect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined by Jasmine and Joseph Wiens, the founders of Lost Ranch Winery in Temecula Valley. Since launching Lost Ranch in 2020, Jasmine and Joseph have been pioneering regenerative agriculture and low intervention winemaking on their working ranch. Their vision? To produce beautiful wines while deeply honoring the land, environment, and community.Lost Ranch grows and sources grapes from organic and regeneratively farmed vineyards, with a commitment to no-till practices, native cover crops, and minimizing synthetic inputs. They’ve also brought in animals like sheep and chickens to support natural weed and pest management, an approach that not only enhances soil health but helps restore biodiversity. In this episode, we explore their journey into sustainable viticulture, the meaning and magic of low intervention wines, and how they’re shifting the narrative in the wine industry.Tune in to learn more about:What it means to practice regenerative agriculture in a vineyard settingThe story behind founding Lost Ranch Winery in Temecula ValleyHow low intervention winemaking differs from conventional processesWhy grape varietal selection matters for sustainability and flavorTheir use of livestock and native plant systems in soil regenerationThe aesthetic vision behind their natural, welcoming tasting roomHow Lost Ranch engages the local community through education and eventsStrategies for sustainable distribution and working with local eateries… And so much more!Jasmine & Joseph's Resources & Links:Visit Lost Ranch Winery: www.lostranchwinery.comFollow on Instagram: @lostranchwineryConnect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined by Chris Burroughs, founder of Garden 31, a San Diego County-based nonprofit dedicated to transforming lives through regenerative agriculture and life skills training. Chris's work focuses on empowering at-risk youth, formerly incarcerated individuals, and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities by providing opportunities for growth, healing, and connection to the Earth.Chris shares the story behind Garden 31, highlighting the organization's mission to build resilient communities through sustainable agriculture, mentorship, and systemic change. We explore the magic of gardens as spaces for healing, connection, and empowerment, and discuss why real, lasting change must address the roots of societal challenges rather than simply treating symptoms.Whether you're passionate about food justice, community empowerment, or systemic transformation, this conversation offers a heartfelt and inspiring look at what is possible when hope and action meet.Tune in to learn more about:How Garden 31 empowers marginalized communities through regenerative agricultureThe connection between local agriculture, community health, and systemic changeInnovative programs like school gardens and youth mentorship initiativesThe long-term vision for an agricultural life academyWhy gardens are powerful spaces for healing and growthThe importance of community collaboration and engagementHow food distribution models can be tailored to better serve community needsOpportunities for volunteering and supporting Garden 31's missionWhat true systemic change can look like in practice… And so much more!Chris's Resources & Links:Visit Garden 31: www.garden31.orgFollow on Instagram: @garden.31Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel