The Thriving Farmer Podcast

Is there really a way to make sourdough simple? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by his wife, Savannah, to talk all about sourdough at The Farm on Central. The Farm on Central is a small family farm located in Carlisle, Ohio and provides the community with a wide array of vegetables, meats, and horticultural products.  Join us today to hear how Michael and Savannah incorporate sourdough bread into their home life and as an income stream for their farm.   In this episode, you’ll hear… About Savannah’s main roles on the Farm 1:59 Why they love sourdough 3:56 About Savannah's sourdough-making process 4:43 About the advantages of a stiff sourdough starter 11:25 How long should a sourdough loaf rest between making and baking 16:29 Why Savannah decided to offer Sourdough classes 26:33 On why sourdough can be a grounding experience 32:01   About the Guests: Michael & Savannah Kilpatrick are farmers and educators in Carlisle, Ohio. Together they run the Farm on Central, where they pursue their passion of providing fresh and local food to the community. In addition to co-running the farm, Savannah teaches cooking, canning, and baking classes from her kitchen. Meanwhile, Michael is also the founder of Growing Farmers and is dedicated to providing educational resources for farmers. Together, they reach a community of over 60,000 farmers, homesteaders, and families!   Resources: Upcoming Sourdough Startup Workshop: http://sourdoughstartup.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/growingfarmerswithmichael Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/growingfarmers   The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.  Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed. You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

Today we’re chatting with Andrea McAdow, owner of Rosebird Farms located in Kingman, Arizona. Nestled in the Cerbat Mountains on just over 2 acres, Rosebird is a certified naturally grown farm growing over 20 varieties of produce any given season. They use high density planting with a focus on soil health in order to get the most out of the land. Andrea came into farming after starting her career in civil engineering and construction management. She felt she needed to give back to the Earth and the community, which led her to the farm life! Hear the tale of a drastic yet dedicated and passionate (and of course, thriving) career shift on today’s episode!   You’ll hear: Why Andrea shifted from civil engineering to farming 1:23 How Rosebird Farms got customers at the beginning 4:17 How they advertise 6:17 How Rosebird handles their flower production 9:50 How they sell their flowers 18:26 How Andrea handles the CSA 22:41 How Andrea communicates with other farmers regarding business prospects 26:12 How their products are priced 28:44 What lessons Andrea learned along the way to becoming a thriving farmer 29:25 Andrea’s advice for those looking to get started on the farming journey 31:51About the guest:Andrea McAdow is the owner of Rosebird Farms, a certified naturally grown farm located on 2 acres in the high desert of Northwestern AZ. After starting her career in civil engineering and construction management, Andrea began farming to explore her passion for working with nature and serving her community. Rosebird Farms grows produce and cut flowers for their CSA and year-round farm stand. They also work with other regional farmers and value-added producers to aggregate and distribute a full line of local products throughout Mohave county.   Resources: Website - https://www.rosebirdfarms.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rosebirdfarms Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rosebirdfarms/   Harvest Hosts Resources: If interested in being a host, please be sure to mention ​​Thriving Farmer Podcast on your application! Harvest Hosts Facebook  Harvest Hosts Instagram  Become a Host Information We are Harvest Hosts, a platform that connects over 180,000 RVers to local businesses and attractions. Based on our recent survey, Harvest Hosts members spend an average of $50 per night at each Host Location they visit; well-established Hosts are reporting an average of $13,000 in additional annual revenue. Our model is a cost-free opportunity for hosts to share their offerings with our members by opening up space for an overnight stay. We simply tell our members about you and they schedule their visit in advance. In exchange for the overnight stay, Harvest Host members are encouraged to make a purchase of at least $20 at each host location they visit. We hope to see you as a new host location of ours soon. ​If you have additional questions, please contact our Account Executive, JD at jd@harvesthosts.com  ​Don't believe us? Hear more from a host!

Has the quality of food you’ve consumed ever affected your health?  On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Taylor Ayers, co-owner of Ayers Valley Farm located in Russellville, OH. After experiencing health issues that no doctor could pinpoint, Taylor, and her husband Josh, started digging deeper into how their food was raised. Seven years later, they are running their own regenerative farm offering a range of high quality meats to loyal customers all around the country.  Tune in to hear how this health scare prompted a return to the farm and how they manage a thriving operation.    You’ll hear: What Taylor and Josh’s course of action was when their health issues got out of control 1:45 What they feed to their pigs and chickens 6:42 How they process their animals 11:45 What Taylor expects the future of the farm to look like 21:36 How does Ayers Valley communicate the necessary cost of good food to their customers 28:08 What Taylor’s favorite farming tool is 38:26 About the Guest: Taylor Ayers is co-owner and operator of Ayers Valley Farm located in Southern Ohio. In 2016, Taylor started experiencing health issues that no doctor could really pinpoint.  Frustrated with the lack of answers, Taylor and her husband took matters into their own hands and started digging deeper into how their food was raised.  After learning more about regenerative methods, they decided to return to the land and raise their own food by finishing cattle on grass and rotating the animals to also feed the soil microbes. Seven years later, they are running their own regenerative farm offering a range of high quality meats to loyal customers all around the country.    Resources: Website - https://ayersvalleyfarmmeats.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/AyersValleyFarm/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ayersvalleyfarm       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.    Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”   Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.   To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!

Want more access to local meat? We need your help! On this special time-sensitive episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Pete Kennedy of the Weston A. Price Foundation. Pete is sharing about the Prime Act which is an important piece of legislation that will empower states to decide their meat inspection protocols. The ultimate aim? Making local meat procurement simpler and cost-effective.  Tune in today to hear how you can help small farmers to push this PRIME Act through with this year's Farm Bill. We’re encouraging all of our US listeners to make three calls - one to your Representative and a call to each of your Senators. Mention your support for H.R. 2814 and Senate bill is S.907 respectively.  In this episode, you’ll hear… About Pete’s background with Weston A Price Foundation 1:23 What the state of meat processing is like right now in the US 2:12 More about what the Prime Act is 10:38 How you can help make this Prime Act pass 12:45 Resources: Call today! The deadline to add this to the farm bill is soon and we need your voice to push for more co-sponsors to get this added to the 2023 Farm Bill. The U.S. food system needs reform, and while no solution is perfect, the Prime Act takes a significant step forward. Carve out a few minutes, connect with your elected officials, and champion the cause of affordable local meat. Tell Congressmen to Cosponsor the PRIME Act  Find your Representative and urge them to co-sponsor the bill! The bill number is H.R. 2814. Find your Senator and press for their support. The bill number is S.907. About the Guest: Pete Kennedy is an attorney and served as president of the Farm-to-Consumer Legal Defense Fund. He has assisted and represented dairy farmers facing possible enforcement action in various states as well as helped others to get started in the business of distributing raw dairy products. Pete compiled the state raw milk law summaries posted at www.realmilk.com and has since written articles for Wise Traditions on raw milk distribution.      

How can land trusts support the next generation of farmers?  On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Susan Koehler and Nathan Boone. Susan is the Farmland Preservation Program Manager for the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust. She is working alongside Nathan who is a seasoned organic farmer and agricultural consultant. Together, with the help of the NWA Food System Initiative,  they are providing support to new and beginner farmers through the preservation and enhancement of wild and farmed land. Tune in to hear about their mission to preserve and enhance the land and farming community in Northwest Arkansas through the permanent protection of land.  You’ll hear: What the NWA Land Trust does 1:52 About Nathan’s background and more about his involvement in the project 5:12 What their long-term intentions for the property are 9:58 About the types of farmers they are looking for 18:10 About the Guests: Susan Koehler is the Farmland Preservation Program Manager for the Northwest Arkansas Land Trust located in Fayetteville AR. Susan works to help farmers who want to voluntarily protect their operations with agricultural focused conservation easements. In addition, her programs are geared to provide support to new and beginning farmers trying to access farmland. Susan works with a number of farms and local food advocates in her community through the NWA Food System Initiative.  Nathan Boone is a seasoned organic farmer with more than 20 years of experience in specialty vegetable, flower and grain production in New Mexico, California, Indiana and Southern Turkey.  He also works as an agricultural consultant in beginning farm business planning and financial management, food safety training and transitioning to organic production.  Resources: Website - The Farmland Lease Program Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nwalandtrust/   This week’s podcast episode is sponsored by Northwest Arkansas Land Trust.  Conservation organizations play an important role in supporting local farms and food efforts nationwide. In the heart of the Ozarks, this land trust is taking land access for farmers one step further where they are offering affordable stable leases.  Through the NWA Food Systems Initiative, NWALT is offering underserved farmers the opportunity to sublease certain designated tracts of farmland on a dedicated property to help support sustainable farming practices in Northwest Arkansas. The Farmland Lease Program is available to beginning and experienced farmers who are interested in fruit and/or vegetable production. Approved applicants will have access to water and electric utility infrastructure, shared access to farm equipment and harvesting facilities with neighboring participant farmers. In addition, farmers accepted into the program will have access to education, training, and other resources to help them succeed. You can learn more about the program and the farm location in this podcast or contact 479-966-4666. Information is online at www.nwafarmlink.org

How much do you know about mechanical weeding?  On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Sam Oschwald Tilton who is the organizer of the upcoming Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day in Ohio. After earning his Master’s degree in Horticulture from Michigan State, Sam has worked many roles in vegetable farming from tool development to teaching on sustainable horticulture. He currently serves as a Direct Market Vegetable Educator offering education and support to Milwaukee-area vegetable growers.  Tune in to hear all about the latest in weeds and cultivation.   You’ll hear: About Sam’s inspiration to get started in farming 1:40 How a farmer would get started in mechanizing their farm work 4:03 What is in Sam’s weed seed bank 8:56 About the roles of extension offices in farming 23:24 All about the upcoming Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day 30:22 About the many different weed control vendors that are attending the Field Day 35:09 About the Guest: Sam Oschwald Tilton serves in a shared position between FairShare and UW-Madison Extension as a Direct Market Vegetable Educator offering education and support to Milwaukee-area vegetable growers.  He also organizes the annual Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day.  Sam has worked in many roles on vegetable farms in Wisconsin – as a field hand, running his own CSA, and managing an educational farm in Sheboygan. He has a Master’s degree in Horticulture from Michigan State, where he researched organic weed control. And for three years, he was an instructor of Sustainable Landscape Horticulture at Lakeshore Technical College. Sam especially appreciates sharing his love of plants with children in his community.   Resources: Field Day Website - 2023 Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day FairShare CSA Coalition - https://www.csacoalition.org/about-us     This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!

How do business acumen and regenerative farming practices shape tomorrow's agriculture?  On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Alex Miller who is the CEO and Chairman of the Board of Lick Skillet Farm in East Tennessee. Alex is a seventh-generation farmer and a chaired professor of Business at the University of Tennessee. Along with his children and grandchildren, he farms a 104-year old family farm using regenerative practices and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of farmers on business and sustainable agriculture.  Tune in to hear how Alex merges business lessons and his farming experience to mentor tomorrow's farmers. You’ll hear: About how their family farm got the name Lick Skillet 1:39 Alex’s unique farming journey 4:00 Why there is such a sustained loss of farms in the USA 6:23 About the products Lick Skillet Farm sells 16:07 How Alex sets up the different enterprises and crews on the farm 18:43 What Alex thinks are the most important parts of farming 33:47 If Alex could go back and change something about when he started in farming 44:20 What Alex’s favorite farming tool is 47:53 About the Guest: Alex Miller, PhD, is a seventh-generation farmer and a chaired professor of business at the University of Tennessee.  He farms a 104-yr old family farm with his children and grandchildren using regenerative practices and sells pasture-raised proteins direct to the public. If he’s not on the farm, he can usually be found at the University of Tennessee where he is a chaired professor in the Haslam College of Business. He holds degrees from Tennessee Tech, Dartmouth, and the University of Washington. He has been recognized as an outstanding conservationist and is a former Tennessee Cattleman of the Year.  Resources: Website - https://lickskillet.farm/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lickskilletfarm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lickskilletfarmtn

What layers of history unfurled in the restoration of Monticello's gardens? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Peter Hatch who has served as the Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello. During his 35 years there, he managed 2,500 acres and the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden.  He also developed many educational programs on the practice of historic garden preservation and has written four books, including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello. Tune in today to hear about Peter’s dedication to Monticello and the history of Thomas Jefferson’s love for gardening. You’ll hear: About what work Peter did that led to his role at Monticello 1:47 What the condition of Monticello was when Peter first arrived 5:40 How extensive was the garden restoration Peter undertook 13:57 About Jefferson’s process of restoring the soil 21:53 How Peter’s book was researched 27:52 About Thomas Jefferson’s true stance on slavery 43:45 How the Monticello gardens today compare to Jefferson’s day 50:38 What Peter would change (if anything) given the opportunity to restart his career 53:46 About the Guest: Peter J. Hatch served as Director of Gardens and Grounds at Thomas Jefferson's Monticello for 35 years. He was responsible for the care of 2,500 acres owned by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation and managed the restoration of Jefferson's Grove and Monticello's 8 acre fruit and vegetable garden. Peter has lectured in 38 states on the gardens of Monticello and the history of garden plants. He has written four books including A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson's Revolutionary Garden at Monticello which won Book of the Year of the American Horticultural Society in 2012. Resources: Website: https://www.peterjhatch.com/ His book: A Rich Spot of Earth: Thomas Jefferson’s Revolutionary Garden at Monticello       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!  

What does it take to run a successful flower farm?  On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jessica Hall who is the Owner, Visionary, and Weeder-in-Chief at Harmony Harvest Farm. Located in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, her farm is known for pioneering nationwide direct-to-consumer bouquet shipping. With over 15 years in the industry, Jessica is driven by the belief that #FreshFlowersRule and everyone can live a better life through flowers.  Tune in today to hear all about the evolution of Harmony Harvest Farm and how they enhance their community and thrive as a result!   You’ll hear: How Jessica discovered her calling to be a flower farmer  2:20 When Jessica knew she wanted to switch gears from weddings 13:06 About the Harmony Harvest Victory Garden and how it’s doing today 27:30 More about The Mum Project  49:55 How Jessica keeps track of all their inventory and production 58:44 How Harmony Harvest keeps their mother plants in their greenhouse 1:05:40 What gives their farm true business freedom 1:08:02 About the Guest: Jessica is the Owner, Visionary, and Weeder-in-Chief of Harmony Harvest Farm. Harmony Harvest Farm is known for pioneering nationwide direct-to-consumer bouquet shipping and its impressive collection of heirloom chrysanthemums. This year, Jessica and her team launched The Mum Project, a collaborative initiative to revitalize American agriculture through heirloom mums. With over 15 years in the industry, Jessica is driven by the belief that #FreshFlowersRule and everyone can live a better life through flowers.  Resources: Website - https://www.hhfshop.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/harmonyhrvst/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/harmonyhrvst       GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app. GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all. As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms. Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly. Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.  

Do you have dreams of going from city life to farm life? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jason Contreras of Sow the Land homestead and Youtube channel. In 2016, Jason and his family left their 9-5 work life in LA to start a small homestead in the mountains of North Carolina. Now in remission from cancer, Jason is on a journey to grow his family’s food, create an efficient homestead and share the whole process in the hopes of inspiring others.  Tune in today to hear about Jason and his journey in sowing the land! You’ll hear: What life was like for Jason back in LA 1:59 About their first crops in their California garden 17:52 What their farm looks like today 22:10 How Jason handles butchering their animals 24:30 What farmers should consider before offering educational workshops 32:20 About the expectations Jason sets for people attending their workshops 39:38 The biggest thing Jason has learned in his homesteading journey 40:52 What he would change given the chance to start over 42:55 About what a typical day looks like for Jason 44:28 The drive behind his Youtube channel 47:38   About the Guest: In 2016 Jason and his family sold most of their belongings, left his office job and left the city in Los Angeles to start a small homestead in the mountains of North Carolina. They became passionate about growing their own food and knowing what exactly was in their food after Jason became diagnosed with cancer in 2010. Now in remission, they are on a journey to grow their own food and be healthy and happy. As they grow and learn new things they enjoy sharing the journey in hopes to inspire others.  Besides filming and editing for their Youtube channel Jason enjoys creating and making things in his wood shop. Jason is the jack of all trades taking care of the farm animals, building structures and striving to create the most efficient homestead.   Resources: Website - https://sowtheland.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/sowtheland/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sowtheland/ Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@SowtheLand       GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app. GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all. As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms. Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly. Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

What's holding you back from full-time farming?   On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Jill Ragan, Owner of Whispering Willow Farm, located in Central Arkansas. Along with her husband, Nathan, Jill’s mission is to create an environment where people come together, foster sustainable practices, and build a resilient local food system. Jill teaches others how to plan and steward their own farms through her social media, online courses and her recently released book The Tiny But Mighty Farm. Tune in today to hear all about Jill’s journey from working a 9-5 job to full-time farming!   You’ll hear:   How Jill got into farming 2:00 How Jill sources the farm’s soil 11:50 About what tools they use for production 15:06 What the Whispering Willow team looks like 18:06 What Jill would change if she could start the farm over again 21:52 About Jill’s motivation to write her book The Tiny But Mighty Farm 24:20 What the most common questions are that Jill has received 29:49 About Jill’s experience with selling to restaurants and breweries 32:20 Jill’s advice for an aspiring farmer 39:48   About the Guest:  Jill Ragan, along with her husband Nathan, are the owners of Whispering Willow Farm in central Arkansas. Along with their three daughters, their family is striving to stay connected to their local community by sharing food and flowers with those around them. Through various outlets like her growing YouTube channel and her new book The Tiny But Mighty Farm, Jill teaches about gardening and, most importantly, flourishing on your home farm no matter the size.    Resources: Jill's book - The Tiny But Mighty Farm Website - www.thewhisperingwillowfarm.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/whisperingwillowfrm/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/whisperingwillowfarm15 YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@WhisperingWillowFarm       GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app. GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all. As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms. Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly. Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

Do you have backyard chickens? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Dalia Monterroso who is the self-appointed President of Chickenlandia. She is a backyard chicken educator, entertainer, and first-time author of the recently released book Let’s All Keep Chickens. In this beginner and intermediate guide, Dalia aims to not only share the ins and outs of chicken keeping but also to bring people together through an age-old practice common to almost all of our ancestry. Tune in today and hear all about Dalia’s poultry journey!   In this episode, you’ll hear:: When Dalia discovered her interest in chickens 1:30 About Dalia’s book and what it covers 6:10 Dalia’s advice for farmers who want to help people keep chickens 14:26 Dalia’s advice for those who are thinking about getting chickens for the first time 23:26 Where can you find out more about Dalia and Chickenlandia  25:30   About the Guest: Dalia Monterroso, also known as The President of Chickenlandia, is a backyard chicken educator, entertainer, and author. Some years ago, Dalia decided to bring home ten little chicks and start a hobby. That hobby quickly grew into a full-feathered passion that she couldn’t stop talking about. Before long, she was part-owner of a farm store, teaching beginner chicken-keeping classes, and delivering seminars across Northwest Washington.  When she’s not teaching in-person classes or doing seminars, you can find her on the popular YouTube Channel Welcome to Chickenlandia, her top-rated podcast Bawk Tawk, or her online course "Backyard Chickens 101: A Chicken Course for Everyone." This year, Dalia published her first book Let’s All Keep Chickens!. In this beginner and intermediate guide, Dalia aims to not only share the ins and outs of chicken keeping but also to bring people together through an age-old practice common to almost all of our ancestry. Resources: Website : https://welcometochickenlandia.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welcometochickenlandia/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WelcomeToChickenlandia Welcome to Chickenlandia YouTube channel          This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.   To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!

How much do you know about growing almonds?  On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Benina Montes of Burroughs Family Farms in the California Central Valley. Benina has worked tirelessly to help their multi-generational family orchard become the first Certified Regenerative Organic Almond Farm in the world.  Their farm’s focus continues to be bringing regeneratively-grown products like organic almonds, olive oil, cheeses and more directly to their customers while protecting the soil and water for generations to come. Tune in to hear all about this Certified Regenerative Organic Almond Farm!   You’ll hear: How Benina got into agriculture 2:00 About how almonds became a part of the farm 4:23 What it took for the Burroughs Family to become a Certified Regenerative Organic farm 10:59 About how their olive tree hedge rows work 14:20 More on how they produce and sell all of their products 15:10 About the different roles of the family on the farm 21:35 How all of the work gets done 25:45   About the Guest: Benina Burroughs Montes was born and raised on the farm and knew in 6th grade that she wanted to come back to the family farming operation. She helped with the beef cattle and the dairy and was very active in both 4-H and Future Farmers of America.   Benina attended California Polytechnic State University and graduated with a Bachelors in Ag Business in 2001. Upon returning to the family farm, she started managing the 647 acres of almonds. In 2006, Burroughs Family Farms started the transition to organic production and by 2015 the entire farm was certified Organic. Benina met her husband Heriberto on the farm and the two were married in May of 2009. The commitment and dedication of Benina and Heriberto to soil health and regenerative farming practices has been further solidified and deepened with the addition of their four children, as they strive to leave a better world for future generations.   Resources: Website - www.burroughsfamilyfarms.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/burroughs.family.farms/ Facebook - www.facebook.com/burroughsfamilyfarms       GrownBy is the farmer-owned online marketplace. In the last three years, their 200 farmers have sold over $2M of products to shoppers on the GrownBy app. GrownBy works for all scales and types of farm sales. Spring Plant Sale? Yup. Annual Freezer Meat Emptying? Check. Multi-season, multi-farm 300 member CSA operation? Absolutely. GrownBy supports it all. As a cooperative, farmer success is their #1 priority. They are the first farmer-owned cooperative ecommerce platform in the world. With auto-payments, built-in customer notifications, CSA subscriptions, and customers helping to pay site fees, GrownBy is a tailored fit for your farm’s online sales. Upcoming, GrownBy will be the first online platform accepting SNAP/EBT with authorized farms. Startup is free, and pricing is transparent and affordable. The cooperative collects 2% of each transaction, but customers often contribute to this fee and bring down farmer costs significantly. Listeners to the Thriving Farmers Podcast get 50% off their first three months on GrownBy. Just email Grow@farmgenerations.coop to get this offer. You can learn more at GrownBy.com, or download the app on the Google Play or Apple App stores.

How can regenerative agriculture put carbon back into the soil? On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Pamela Tanner Boll who is the director of the regenerative-focused documentary To Which We Belong. This film highlights farmers and ranchers leaving behind conventional practices that are no longer profitable or sustainable. These unsung heroes are improving the health of our soil and sea to save their livelihoods — and our planet. Tune in to hear about Pamela’s journey in making this award-winning film! In this episode, you’ll hear: What inspired Pamela to film To Which We Belong 1:39 More on the best practices to keep CO2 levels under control 4:22 About Pamela’s visits to farms and regenerative learning centers 10:58 Which nonprofits Pamela has done research with 14:24 What happens when you use cover crops to feed the carbon sugars 28:15 What Pamela’s advice is for a farmer who is unsure of where to start 36:17 How you can find out more about To Which We Belong 41:32 About what Pamela is working on next 43:48 About the Guest: Pamela Tanner Boll is the Founder/CEO of Mystic Artists Film Productions. Her most recent film, To Which We Belong, highlights farmers and ranchers who are improving the health of their land with regenerative practices and helping to reverse climate change. Pamela grew up in Parkersburg, WV and received a BA in English from Middlebury College and a Masters in Interdisciplinary Studies from Lesley University. She raised her three sons in Winchester, Massachusetts and now lives in Boulder, Colorado.   Resources: Website: https://www.towhichwebelong.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/towhichwebelong Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/towhichwebelongdoc/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ToWhichWeBelong       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!

How much do you know about Silvopasture?  On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Jake Puckett of Crow Fly Farms in Marion, NC. His farm is a first-generation regenerative farm that raises 100% grass-fed and finished cattle and sheep (a.k.a. a “flerd”) as well as 100% Soy-Free Organic forest-raised hogs.  Hear more about how they sell their meat in bundles instead of individual cuts and how he’s transitioning his property into Silvopasture. Tune in to hear about Jake’s dedication to the improvement of his land and the environment as a result. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Jake got started in farming 1:59 How Crow Fly got access to land as a first-generation farm 6:28 More about his market and how they sell 18:05 How they sell their meat in bundles instead of individual cuts 22:27 How they are converting their property to Silvopasture 30:32 More on how Jake runs his animals as a “flerd” 36:41 What Jake would change if he could start all over again 40:15 Who makes up the team at his farm 42:31 About the future of Crow Fly Farms 44:28  About the Guest: Jake Puckett and his wife, Luna Mikos, of Crow Fly Farms run a diversified livestock operation in Marion, NC raising cattle, sheep, and hogs. His cattle and sheep are 100% grass fed and finished and his hogs are raised entirely in the forest and fed a soy-free organic feed. Jake is an Accredited Professional with the Savory Institute and is the Lead Ecological Monitor for the Robinia Institute. Their farm’s motto is Happy Animals, Healthy Ecosystem, Clean Meat.  Resources: Website: www.crowflyfarms.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crowflyfarms/       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!  

How do you know when you are ready to diversify? On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Shane and Elizabeth Stuart of Crossing Creeks Farm. Situated on 125 acres in Shelbyville, TN, they have been practicing regenerative and holistic farming since 2012 with a focus on providing a diversified offering to their customers. From grass-fed meat and eggs to traditional foods like bone broth from their on-site commercial kitchen, they also host numerous guests through their RV sites and private open air cabins. Their farm even offers horseback riding lessons, a dog park, hiking trails and a seasonal cafe.  Join us today to hear all about this thriving generational farm! In this episode, you’ll hear: How Elizabeth and Shane got started in farming 1:51 Why they don’t believe beef is a good fit for their farm 5:03 What they do with RV’s and cabins 9:03 About who their customer base is 11:56 How their on-farm store started out 14:50 What their social media management looks like 21:58 How they source and manage vendors 27:15 What they would do differently if they had a do-over 28:42 About their farm team and their process for finding helpers  33:38 Their advice for aspiring farmers 39:50 About the Guest: Shane and Elizabeth Stuart are passionate about producing great food for their family’s table and yours. With a commitment to producing pasture raised, organic fed and soy & corn free everything through regenerative farming practices, their first passion and focus is grass-fed meats and eggs. Their second passion is hosting guests on the farm with unique farm stays through our RV sites and private open air cabins. Sharing the experience of really great food through our on-site commercial kitchen is their third passion. From ancestral, traditional foods like bone broth and lard to exceptional treats like Einkorn cinnamon rolls made with organic ingredients-eating nutrient rich foods doesn't have to be tasteless, boring or inconvenient and they hope to show you that through their kitchen offerings.   Resources: Website: www.crossingcreeks.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/crossingcreekstn Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crossingcreeksfarm/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@crossingcreeksfarm       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!

Are you running your farm like the financial asset that it is?  On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Ryan Tansom who is the founder of Arkona and the Intentional Growth Podcast. He teaches business owners how to view and run their company like a financial asset through The Intentional Growth Framework, fractional CFO services and strategic planning. His mission is to help entrepreneurs enjoy their work, create wealth and make an impact. Tune in to hear all about Ryan’s amazing entrepreneurial journey, how he accomplished what he’s accomplished, and where he’s growing next!   In this episode, you’ll hear:  The story behind his business name Arkona 1:35 How Ryan got started in entrepreneurship 3:30 About what Arkona provides 11:47 How Ryan goes about team building 21:00 How Ryan manages to get a team to be on the same page 25:22 What Ryan’s advice is for someone in a family business that is dealing with strife 30:03 What Ryan means by “equity growth” 41:23 Where you can find out more about Ryan and his work 46:54   About the Guest: Ryan Tansom started his entrepreneurial career at his family business where he was the Executive VP and responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial strategy of the $21 Million company. By the age of 27, Ryan helped turn the company around and bring intentional focus to the right strategies which enabled it to be sold for 8 figures in 2014 to a local competitor. Ryan took his experience and founded Arkona to create the Intentional Growth™ Framework which helps owners view – and run – their company like a financial asset through educational training and fractional CFO services. Ryan’s mission is to help entrepreneurs enjoy work, create wealth, and make an impact to make the journey “worth it”. Ryan has personally guided over 400 entrepreneurs and leaders through the Intentional Growth™ Academy and also hosts the popular Intentional Growth™ podcast. Resources: Business Website: Arkona Podcast: Intentional Growth Podcast Ryan’s LinkedIn Profile         This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.   To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!  

Have you ever gone the extra step beyond soil tests and done plant sap analysis? On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we are joined by Shelley Katz, founder of Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm in Fort Myers, Florida. Shelley is a fruit and vegetable grower who has been dedicated to growing food ecologically since 2013 and started managing mixed vegetable farms in 2017. She also serves as a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture which works with growers to create customized crop programs combining biological and mineral nutrition products with regenerative practices to improve crop quality. Tune in to hear about Shelley’s unique farming journey!  In this episode, you’ll hear: How Shelley got into agriculture 1:43 About what kinds of crops Shelley worked on during her time in Hawaii 3:00 What the initial perennial cropping looked like after her move to Florida 9:43 How sap analysis works 14:38 How degraded the soils of the world are 24:00 What she’s learned while working with AEA 27:05 What the different enterprises are at Heart of Palms Ranch 32:44 What Shelley would’ve done differently if she were to restart her career 37:55 Where you can learn more about Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm 40:46 Previous episode mentioned in the show: John Kempf on Advanced Biological Farming About the Guest: Shelley Katz is a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture and the founder of Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm. She started this journey through conservation internships on farms in Hawaii which then led to a career in vegetable farm management. She earned a Bachelor in Agriculture Science from Oregon State University, and has completed two Permaculture Design Certificates at OSU. In 2020, she founded Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm in Fort Myers, Florida. Heart of Palms grows perennial and subtropical produce using regenerative practices, grazes horses and cattle, and offers agritourism activities such as farmstays, camping, and tours.  She also serves as a Regenerative Agriculture Consultant for Advancing Eco Agriculture helping farmers improve crop quality, yields, and disease and insect resistance. Resources: Farm Website: www.heartofpalmsranch.com Advancing Eco Ag Website: https://www.advancingecoag.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shelleyplants/ Facebook: Heart of Palms Ranch and Eco-Farm       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!  

Can you imagine growing a beyond-organic garden?  On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, our guest is Helen Atthowe, who is a farmer, researcher, and celebrated pioneer in eco-organic methods. She is an advocate for minimizing and, yes, even stopping the use of certified-organic pest control materials and is encouraging farmers to rely on natural nutrient cycling for natural biological control.  Helen has a Masters in Horticulture and currently farms and does soil-building research on her new 5-acre farm in Western Montana. Her new book The Ecological Farm releases in June. Tune in to hear all about these eco-organic methods, her new book, and more! In this episode, you’ll hear:  How Helen got into farming 2:10 What kind of fruits Helen grew on the Oregon farm 5:13 How Helen successfully farms without pesticides 7:58 About how she handles the Plum Curculio Beetle 13:41 How Helen’s thinking on pest management has changed over the years 21:53 The downsides of even organic pest control methods and materials 23:07 Why Helen decided to write a book 27:28 About Helen’s experiences with Cucumber Beetles 33:18 More about the different topics of her new book 37:08 What type of habitat Helen recommends people start with 40:52 About the Guest: Helen Atthowe is a farmer, researcher, and celebrated pioneer in eco-organic methods. Helen has a M.S. in Horticulture from Rutgers University and has worked in education and research at Rutgers, the University of Arkansas, and Oregon State University.  Helen and her late husband farmed a 211-acre organic farm in Eastern Oregon doing mainly orchard and vegetable production while also creating educational videos about their ecological farming methods. In 2012, Woodleaf Farm was recognized with a Steward of Sustainable Agriculture Award at the 32nd Annual EcoFarm Conference.  Since then, Helen has developed an almost closed loop farming system using chopped hay from some fields to fertilize vegetable and fruit fields. Helen is passionate about minimizing or stopping use of even certified-organic pest control materials, relying on natural nutrient cycling and on natural biological control.  Her new book on these eco-organic methods entitled The Ecological Farm releases on June 22nd.  Resources: Website: http://woodleaffarm.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AgrarianDreams/videos Helen’s new book:  The Ecological Farm: A Minimalist No-Till, No-Spray, Selective-Weeding, Grow-Your-Own-Fertilizer System for Organic Agriculture       This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.   Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.”  Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business.  To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!  

Has rural farming and small town America changed where you live?  On today’s episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, our guest is Chris Jones who has recently served as a Research Engineer at the University of Iowa. While there, he studied and wrote about the declining quality of water as a result of the changes in agriculture and the environment over the past century. He shares those thoughts and critiques through his blog which was released as a book entitled The Swine Republic on May 19th. Through authoring books, advocacy and research, few have attracted more attention to the causes and sources of farm-related pollution than Chris Jones.  Tune in to hear about Chris’ thoughts on how we can protect our environment and the future of rural America. In this episode, you’ll hear: How Chris got started in water quality research 1:51 About the water quality of the places Chris has researched 5:12 More on what happens when nitrate gets into the water 9:39 About Chris’ role throughout the majority of his career 13:11 How people in Iowa can give political pushback in support of cleaner water 21:00 What Chris’ new book is about and the future state of rural America 26:17 Products mentioned in the show: Chris’ book The Swine Republic (or pre-order via Amazon) About the Guest: Chris Jones is a Research Engineer with IIHR-Hydroscience & Engineering at the University of Iowa. He holds a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from Montana State University and a BA in chemistry and biology from Simpson College. Previous career stops include the Des Moines Water Works and the Iowa Soybean Association. As an avid outdoorsman, he enjoys fishing, bird watching, gardening, and mushroom hunting in both Iowa and Wisconsin. While he spends most of his time in Iowa City, he is especially fond of the Upper Mississippi River and the Driftless Area. Resources: Blog: https://riverraccoon.blogspot.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/RiverRaccoon Substack: https://riverraccoon.substack.com/     This podcast is sponsored by Small Farm University, THE go-to resource for gardeners, homesteaders, and farmers around the world. Small Farm University delivers classes online and on demand, with training on how to grow crops AND how to grow a profitable farm business that serves you, your family, and your community well.  Applying what you learn in SFU could save you countless hours and thousands of dollars. And, it can save you the agony of costly mistakes some make, just because they “don’t know what they don’t know.” Delivered by real farmers with hands-on experience and expertise, it is unique in its approach, using the RIPEN method for growing and building a farm or farm business. To learn more, visit:  GrowingFarmers.com today!