Hands in the Soil

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

In this episode, we’re joined by Peter Sargent, founder of Longroots Ranch in Boulder County, Colorado. Peter grew up on horse and cattle operations in Pennsylvania and Wyoming and spent a decade as an environmental organizer before combining those two worlds in a regenerative agrivoltaic operation.We explore Peter’s journey into farming, the concept of agrivoltaics—which merges agriculture with solar energy—and how this practice benefits soil health, livestock, and energy production. Peter breaks down how solar grazing works, its potential to transform land use, and the challenges of managing animals within solar arrays. He also shares his perspective on conscious meat consumption, the importance of nose-to-tail eating, and what it means to consume meat “in season.”Whether you’re curious about renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, or how to be a more ethical meat consumer, this episode offers a rich and grounded conversation at the intersection of farming and environmental innovation.Tune in to learn more about:The practical realities of integrating sheep with solar arraysHow carbon sequestration ties into both grazing practices and climate solutionsTips for eating meat more ethically, including seasonal awareness and full-animal useWhat makes solar grazing economically viable for farmers and energy providersBehind-the-scenes challenges that most people don’t see in small-scale livestock operationsHow thoughtful land stewardship can benefit ecosystems, communities, and farmers… And so much more!Peter’s Resources & Links:Visit Long Roots Ranch: www.longrootsranch.com/Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we sit down with Bianca and Ethan Nati, the passionate growers behind The Growers Grange. Over the past three years, they built their small-scale farm from the ground up outside of Portland, Oregon. However, they are now in the process of closing their farm business, and this conversation takes an honest look at the challenges of making farming a financially and emotionally sustainable career.Bianca and Ethan share their journey into agriculture, from their early inspirations to the hard lessons they learned along the way. They reflect on the romanticism of this work versus the realities of running a farm as a business, the systemic challenges that make small-scale farming so difficult, and their advice for aspiring farmers. We also explore what’s next for them as they transition out of farming as a profession but continue their love for growing food.Tune in to learn more about:The journey of starting The Growers Grange and what led to its closureThe realities of farming as a business versus a personal or family traditionWhy small-scale farming is financially and physically demandingCommon misconceptions about farming and the romanticized vision many people holdWhy Ethan and Bianca believe small-scale agriculture is unsustainable for many new farmersKey challenges in today’s agricultural industry and possible solutionsThe differences between sustainable farming and conventional farming in terms of financial viabilityHow interpersonal relationships are affected by the stress and demands of farmingThe importance of valuing your health and relationships while pursuing a farming careerWhat Bianca and Ethan plan to continue growing in the future for pleasure rather than profit… And so much more!Resources & Links:Visit The Growers Grange website: https://thegrowersgrange.square.site/Find a farm or land link program near you: https://farmlandinfo.org/farm-link-finder/Connect with Hannah:Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re excited to dive back in with Ian McSweeney, a dedicated land steward and advocate for equitable farmland access. Ian’s work centers on the human connection to land and each other, viewing food and agriculture as both separating and connecting forces. As Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director of The Farmers Land Trust, he has helped protect over 12,000 acres of farmland, securing land access for future generations.We discuss the Farmland Commons model—a transformative approach to farmland conservation that ensures land remains in the hands of farmers and communities for generations to come. Ian breaks down how the model works, who can implement it, and the critical differences between 501c3, 501c2, and 501c25 nonprofit structures in this context. Ian’s insights provide a roadmap for farmers, conservationists, and community members interested in reshaping farmland ownership and resilience. Whether you're a farmer looking for secure land access or an advocate for sustainable food systems, this episode offers valuable knowledge and inspiration.Tune in to learn more about:The importance of securing farmland for future generationsHow the Farmland Commons model operates and the steps for replicating it The challenge of transitioning farmland ownership and how to bridge the gap between retiring farmers and aspiring land stewardsThe need for stronger networks within farming communitiesInnovative approaches to land acquisition, including property mapping and direct outreach to landowners… And so much more!Ian’s Resources & Links: Visit The Farmers Land Trust: thefarmerslandtrust.org Follow on Instagram: @thefarmerslandtrust Facebook: The Farmers Land Trust YouTube: The Farmers Land TrustConnect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today’s episode, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on 2024 and express my deep gratitude for the time you’ve spent alongside me over the last 33 episodes of Hands in the Soil. I also share some personal and professional updates, as I’m gearing up to close a chapter and beginning a new one. I look back on my growth-filled year working at the Farm Lab in Encinitas, and give you a glimpse into what’s next for me. And in 2025, I’ll be taking you on a behind the scenes journey to show you what it takes to start a farm!  Do you have any feedback or specific topics you’d like to learn about in future episodes? If so, I’d love to hear from you. You can fill out the feedback form here: https://forms.gle/VAGUhbw3V3CnTMS56 Thank you for listening, and see you in 2025!  Connect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today’s mini episode, we’re exploring soil cultivation practices — what tilling is, the different methods of soil disturbance, and how they affect soil health. We’ll also look at no-till agriculture as an alternative, examining both its advantages and challenges. Tune in to learn more about… What soil cultivation is and how it's commonly used in conventional farming The different types of soil disturbance practices, from intensive tillage to conservation tillage to no-till Why disturbing the soil can have negative consequences, including weed growth, compaction, and loss of organic matter The long-term impacts on carbon release, erosion, and nutrient loss What no-till farming looks like and how it benefits soil health The challenges of non-organic no-till practices, which often rely on herbicides Key soil health principles that align with no-till and regenerative agriculture Resources Mentioned: Episode 30: What is Regenerative Agriculture? Connect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today’s mini episode, I dive into the thing that’s on everyone’s mind this week - the election. More specifically, I focus on how the food system might be impacted by the new administration.  Tune in to learn more about… The policies that give me hope The ways that Donald Trump’s promises are in direct opposition to the platform that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. ran on How fossil fuel and immigration policies are all intrinsically connected to the health of our national food system  What we can do to create the change we wish to see Connect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel

In today’s mini episode, we dive into the topic of “regenerative agriculture.” If you’ve been listening to this podcast, you’ve heard us mention this several times - but what exactly are we talking about?  Tune in to learn more about… Why there isn’t a universal definition of regenerative agriculture  The difference between “sustainable” versus “regenerative”  Where the concept came from and why it’s growing in popularity  The indigenous roots of regenerative agriculture  What it means to farm in harmony with nature  How cover cropping supports soil health and pollinators  Why it’s important to create habitats for animals within the farm ecosystem  How to be discerning when big corporations greenwash their products … And so much more!  Connect with Hannah: Instagram: @hannahkeitel