The Good Dirt: Sustainability Explained

Deep-dive into one brand's process in sourcing & developing responsible fashion. This week, Mary & Emma are chatting with Elisabeth de Gramont, Chief Brand Officer and Head of Impact at Frank And Oak. Combining style, design and technology since it was founded in Montreal in 2012, Frank And Oak offers collections of sustainable, durable clothing and accessories for men and women that are thoughtfully designed and well suited to the lifestyles of its customers. Inspired by responsible thinking and with an eye to the future, Frank And Oak believes that dressing with intention can inspire a more conscious lifestyle for all. They strive to inspire better living through thoughtfully designed products that care about you and the planet. Above all, they believe in helping communities to build a diverse and inclusive world that enriches our society, sustainably. Topics Discussed Elisabeth's background and journey to FAO Unified Commerce Group   History of FAO brand started with the idea of community and collaboration 2017 FAO took a strong turn towards sustainability Elisabeth's current role with FAO What's the relationship between scalability and sustainability? How can sustainable brands scale up? Seawool How FAO screens and selects suppliers FAO's 100% Responsible Product announcement FAO denim SeaCell FAO's other sustainable product innovations Kapok Yak Wool as an alternative to cashmere Problems with cashmere  How Elisabeth's own experience and evolution with sustainable fashion, and how covid shifted her perspective  Consumer culture in the US is different than other cultures in its prioritization of price and appearance over source Guppy Friend washing bag for microplastic pollution Frank and Oak's updated progress report FOA's focus on end -of-life options for garments Consumer education on the issues with the recycled PET microplastics FOA has eliminated all virgin polyester from their production Connect with Frank & Oak: Website: Frank & Oak Instagram @frankandoak This Episode is Sponsored by Ettitude: ettitude.com/thegooddirt ^Use code THEGOODDIRT for $25 off your first order! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Phoebe Yu and Kat Dey are the cofounders of ettitude, an award-winning material science and lifestyle company innovating eco-textiles to fight climate change. Why does this matter? Listen to this conversation to hear why eco-textiles are so important, and what to look for when looking to purchase textiles for your home. With its proprietary technologies, ettitude offers sustainable bedding, bath essentials, apparel and a variety of textiles made with CleanBamboo.  Topics Discussed: The Old Farmer's Almanac Phoebe Yu and Kat Dey introduce themselves and their company ettitude, and describe their "aha" moments in getting behind sustainable textiles. The problems with plant-based textiles and the toxic processes used in their production A discussion of the different types of plant-based fibers, such as viscose, lyocell, Tencel, cotton, and bamboo Bamboo as a high-performance textile and it's advantages over cotton How does bamboo measure up to organic cotton?  The beneficial aspects of bamboo in regards to climate Eutrophication: a term to explain how many toxic chemicals are being released into the atmosphere or into the environment. Kiss the Ground Connect with ettitude: Website: ettitude Instagram @ettitudestore This Episode is Sponsored by Frank and Oak: Frank & Oak Use our code "gooddirt30" for $30 off orders over $99 on frankandoak.com! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Have you ever wondered where the ingredients for your bread come from...like really wondered? And why should you care? Today's guest is here to tell us all about how a local grain supply supports local economies, a more resilient supply chain, better quality staple foods for the consumer and better soil health for the region. Heather Coiner is a plant physiological ecologist and co-founder of the Common Grain Alliance, an organization striving for a more connected grain economy in the Mid-Atlantic. The Common Grain Alliance envisions an integrated grain economy of local and regional businesses that produce nutritious, flavorful and consistent regional grain products for the communities they serve, and helps drive regional interest in— and demand for — regional grain through events, workshops and marketing Heather, holds a PhD in plant physiological ecology from the University of Toronto and co-owns Little Hat Creek Farm, an ecological vegetable farm and wood fired bakery in central Virginia where she lives with her husband and two children.  Topics discussed: Heather's background as an academic and a bread baker How the Common Grain Alliance came to be Michael Grantz of Great Day Gardens How does the CGA operate as a membership organization? Carolina Ground (a similar grain operation out of Asheville) Jennifer Laps Why should we care about local grain? Nutrition Supply Local economies Soil improvement Challenges in creating a local grain economy Some solutions to the issue of accessibility sliding scale prices equipment pools for farmers businesses that provide traveling services for planting and processing Creating an awareness of the importance of local grains Little Hat Creek Farm The idea of horizontal vs vertical integration Significant accomplishments of CGA  Foggy Mountain Pasta  Next Step Produce Migrash Farms Purple Mountain Moutoux Orchards CSA The Grain Stand pilot program What are the alternatives if you can't access local grain?  King Arthur Organic Flour is a good alternative to locally grown grain Restaurants in the Area that support the local grain economy Albemarle Baking Co  Seylou Bakery Slice Versa MarieBette Cafe and Bakery Connect with Heather Coiner: Website: Common Grain Alliance Instagram @commongrainalliance This Episode is Sponsored by Frank and Oak: Frank & Oak Use our code "gooddirt30" for $30 off orders over $99 on frankandoak.com! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

This week we are talking to writer, creator and self proclaimed life-long learner, Hillarie Maddox, founder of Black Girl, Country Living. Hillarie preaches the idea that slow living in a lifestyle anyone can live, and focuses her encouragement specifically on the BIPOC community. She climbed the big tech corporate ladder, then ditched the city for slow living and finding her love of nature, and she found herself in the process. Topics discussed How Hillarie and her family went from city to rural living What was the new way of being that Hillarie discovered? When you live in an urban environment, many things are made "invisible" A feeling of disconnection might lead to excess consumerism Seeking a slower and more sustainable lifestyle is like peeling an onion How a vision board helped Hillarie and her husband make the shift The shift to slow living does not always mean a move to the country Hillarie speaks to her intention and mission on the land, beginning with gardening Hillarie's gardening experience and desire to share the knowledge Rewilding workshops launching next year, helping particularly bipoc people develop a relationship with nature Hillarie talks about the slow living movement and what that means for people of color  The value of mentors and community in this lifestyle Hillarie's family connection to the original Homesteading Act The changes of agriculture in America in the last century Wendall Berry, The Unsettling of America Hillarie explains what "rewilding" means to her The indigenous people of the region where Hillarie now lives The biggest challenges and rewards of this lifestyle shift for Hillarie's family Connect with Hillarie Maddox Website: Black Girl Country Living Instagram This Episode is Sponsored by Frank and Oak: Frank & Oak Use our code "gooddirt30" for $30 off orders over $99 on frankandoak.com! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Our guest today is someone who began her plastic-free journey in her kitchen, and has now become the renowned Zero Waste Chef, Anne-Marie Bonneau! Starting as a Zero Plastic Chef, she took the next step in her sustainability journey and became the Zero Waste Chef working towards producing zero waste in her own kitchen and inspiring others to do the same. She talks about how to shop differently, buy differently, and cook differently to reduce waste in the kitchen! Topics Discussed: Hugelkultur Anne Marie’s transition to plastic free Beginning tips for zero waste Zero Waste as a goal Anne Marie’s rhythm with food prep Fighting Food waste The idea of convenience contributing to waste Zero waste can be simple The attention economy informs our perception of what we can do Thneeds (from The Lorax by Dr. Suess) The Good Ancestor Is there hope for conscious consumerism?  Greta Thunberg The slow food movement began in Italy Alton Brown baked beans Connect with Anne-Marie Bonneau Instagram: @zerowastechef Website Anne-Marie's Book, The Zero Waste Chef This Episode is Sponsored by Frank and Oak: Frank & Oak Use our code "gooddirt30" for $30 off orders over $99 on frankandoak.com! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Meet Dina Falconi, herbalist, teacher, and author, of Feasting and Foraging. In this episode, we hear about her journey toward leading a meaningful, healthy life and finding natural medicine through food. Specializing in permaculture and herbal healing, Dina explores about how we can make changes in our everyday lives to improve our physical, mental, and spiritual health. Topics discussed: Dina's journey with plants beginning at age 11 in the East Village of NYC Micky Carter, Dina's early mentor Worked and studied at an herb company with Pam Montgomery, https://www.wakeuptonature.com/about/ William Lassasier--herbal teacher Earthy Bodies and Heavenly Hair Dina's work in the Hudson River Valley, NY creating virtual teachings with her son and filmmaker Sam Falconi How Dina shares content on digital media without a cellphone Dina talks about living without a cellphone Claire Dunn Episode Dina's clinical herbalist is connected to food activism and foraging How do city dwellers experience wild foods? Ecosystem stewardship and land care are big themes for foragers A discussion about invasives Mugwort The process of creating Foraging and Feasting Wendy Hollender / illustrator for Foraging and Feasting Plant foraging and healing with herbs as a growing topic of interest/ the "hipster wave" Knowledgeable foraging can create more biodiversity and abundance in the landscape Slow living as plant literacy, observing nature's processes Botanical Arts Press Dina Falconi's YouTube Channel In the Wild Kitchen Connect with Dina Falconi  Instagram @foragingandfeasting Facebook @ForagingFeasting Dina's Website, www.botanicalartspress.com Foraging and Feasting by Dina Falconi, Illustrated by Wendy Hollender This Episode is Sponsored by Ettitude: ettitude.com/thegooddirt ^Use code THEGOODDIRT for $25 off your first order! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Ever dream about moving to a Homestead? In today's episode, we're talking to Jade Miles of Black Barn Farm. Jade is the author of FUTURESTEADING, a practical and inspirational guide to living in a way that values tomorrow and the host of a podcast by the same name. Futuresteading is grounded in a slower, simpler, steadier existence as the first step – one that’s healthier for humans and the planet. In addition, Jade runs Black Barn Farm with her husband and their three children, inspired by their belief in building a localized fair food system. Topics Discussed: Jade tells us about her background and journey to Black Barn Farm Jade and her husband Charlie's commitment to land stewardship and local food systems Experiencing the 2019-2020 fires in Australia Governmental vs. individual responsibility in addressing the global environmental issues Diversity and Permaculture at Black Barn Farm as a “beyond organic” orchard, an educational resource, a nursery, a local food provider and a working homestead for Jade and her family Farm Scale permaculture Futuresteading is about “...assessing whether or not the decision that you make will have an outcome that is regenerative, sustainable or degenerative.”  Growing Mountain Pepper, an indigenous bush food Connecting with the indigenous First Nations people of the land Educational opportunities at Black Barn Farm include school and upskilling workshops  Sustainable Table Futuresteading the book  Futuresteading the podcast More information on the indigenous tribes discussed: Pallanganmiddang people Pangerang Learn more about the Mad Agriculture program! More information on Steward Check out our podcast with Dan Miller and Spike Gjerde of Steward! Connect with Jade: Instagram Facebook This Episode is Sponsored by Ettitude: ettitude.com/thegooddirt ^Use code THEGOODDIRT for $25 off your first order! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Today's discussion is with Lauren Haynes, founder of Wooden Spoon Herbs, a company providing products and education to help you build your routine of herbal support. Lauren's goal is to make earth-grown, time-tested herbal formulas accessible for the health of ourselves and our planet. In this conversation, we discuss Lauren's background in Appalachia and her education as an herbalist, the challenges of regulations around herbal products, educating consumers about product use, and the role of herbalism in healing the broken relationship between humans and earth. Topics Discussed: Lauren's journey to Wooden Spoon Herbs How Lauren was first drawn to herbalism The issue of compliance in the utilization of herbalism  The Appalachian Center for Natural Health Phyllis D. Light Green Comfort School of Herbal Medicine Candice Pert, Your Body is Your Subconscious Mind Molecules of Emotion Herbalism is NOT a replacement for professional health care, but it can be a compliment What is unique about Wooden Spoon Herbs The challenge of regulations around herbal products and education The DSHEA Act Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act  Wooden Spoon Herbs sourcing Lauren's background growing up in Appalachia Isaias Hernandez @queerbrownvegan The role of herbalism in healing the broken relationship between humans and earth How can slow living be accessible to everyone? Stephanie O'Dea Jessie Inchauspe @theglucosegoddess @tartvinegar Connect with Lauren: @woodenspoonherbs on Instagram Wooden Spoon Herbs Website This Episode is Sponsored by Ettitude: ettitude.com/thegooddirt ^Use code THEGOODDIRT for $25 off your first order! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Today's episode is about Brigid, saint and legend, known for her skills at the hearth, the loom, midwifery, healing, poetry and animal husbandry. Kathy Spaar, spiritual director, pilgrimage leader and nature educator shares many of the folklore and stories of this legendary figure from Celtic tradition. As a figure of feminine wisdom and power who presides over the land and the homestead, we consider Brigid the quintessential Lady Farmer, our guide, protector and inspiration for slow living through the seasons. Intro: Follow Kesslyn @gemwellnessofficial for more about her journey as a midwife and her exploration of St. Brigid. Episode Reprise: Imbolc is here! Mary and Emma introduce Kathy and Brigid Kathy introduces herself Brigid's Feast Day Kathy's favorite stories of Brigid Brigid - the quintessential Lady Farmer How does Brigid relate to the times we are in now The most important thing Brigid has taught Kathy Mentions: The Almanac Brigidine Sisters Children's Book “Brigid’s Cloak: An Ancient Irish Story” by Bruce Milligan. "Symbols of Plenty" by Ruth Bidgood "Rekindling the Flame " by Rita Minehan About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Looking for a natural insulation option? Look no further than the world's oldest...wool! In today's episode, Mary & Emma chat with Andrew Legge, founder of Havelock Wool to discuss wool insulation, how it differs from more conventional insulation methods, and why you might want to consider it for your tiny home, van conversion, or even full home renovation! Topics Discussed Join the Lady Farmer Slow Living Challenge! (Starts 2.6.23) Interview: Andrew discusses his background and the path to Havelock Wool  The shift in consumer knowledge and demand for alternative building projects Wool as a dynamic fiber The contrast between wool and synthetic fibers as insulation Design obsolescence, how consumers are conditioned to expect the need to replace products The power of the consumer in choosing alternatives Build better, build less, build slower. Don't build space that you don't need As shelter from the elements, the building's key feature is insulation.  Common sense in the construction industry If wool is a natural product, why is it more expensive? Wool insulation manufacturing as a sustainable and low waste process Embodied vs operational carbon Biophilic design Sourcing wool from New Zealand Why not source the wool in the US or other places?  Havelock as the go-to insulator for van conversions Connect with Havelock Wool: Website Instagram This Episode is Sponsored by Ettitude: ettitude.com/thegooddirt ^Use code THEGOODDIRT for $25 off your first order! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. Our technical partner for this series is CitizenRacecar, Post-Production by Alex Brouwer and José Miguel Baez, Coordinated by Gabriela Montequin and Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Today's guest is Kyle Lybarger, a forester and conservationist from north Alabama. His passion is identifying, protecting, and managing the overlooked grassland ecosystems in his region and educating the public about the environmental value and climate benefits of these native plants. Most people don't realize that so many of our forested areas were once actually native grasslands that were maintained by the grazing of native animal life and the management practices of the native people. In this conversation, Kyle also explains the importance of fire in land management, both the naturally occurring fires and those that indigenous people practiced to sustain local food systems. Tune in to hear Kyle's take on Smokey the Bear, rewilding and the "no-mow" movement, how our domestic landscape has shifted here in the United States and what we can all do to reinvigorate our land and secure our food system.  Topics Discussed: Join the Lady Farmer Slow Living Challenge! (Starts 2.6.23) How Kyle got to the Native Habitat Project and how that evolved Grassland ecosystems The need for education about native plants The ecological role of grasslands Why the grasslands have disappeared Kyle discusses "rewilding" Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee  The role of burning in maintaining grasslands How Native Americans utilized the grassland ecosystems How Smoky the Bear and growing populations changed land management practices Porter's Goldenrod Hartselle Sandstone Barren How Kyle established an outdoor classroom in his hometown How forestry competes with biodiversity Grasslands are valuable for sequestering carbon Birds for Beef Jenny Harris of White Oak Pastures Grazing Gone Native with The American Forage Council Discretionary use of sprays to restore grasslands Restoring lawns to native habitats for wildlife diversity and for creating reliable food sources Connect with Kyle: Native Habitat Project's website Kyle's FB page, Native Habitat Managers On Tik Tok @nativeplanttok On Instagram @nativehabitatproject The Native Habitat Podcast This Episode is Sponsored by Havelock Wool: Visit https://havelockwool.com/gooddirt to learn all about wool insulation! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Today's episode is with Julia Blandford, a recent graduate from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a BFA in Fashion Marketing and Management, and host of the Seeking Sustainability Podcast. Join us for this fun and refreshing conversation with one of the younger voices within our community. Julia identifies herself as on the cusp of the Millennial and Gen Z generations, openly sharing about her passion as a self-proclaimed environmentalist as well as the doubts and frustrations along her own sustainable living journey. We find it hopeful and enlightening to hear how Julia and her contemporaries are approaching the challenges that face us in our world today. Topics Discussed: Join the Lady Farmer Slow Living Challenge! (Starts 2.6.23) Julia's story as a Gen Z environmentalist How she started her podcast--Seeking Sustainability ESG: Environmental Sustainable Governance Environmentalism in hard times How Julia's personal struggles informed her environmentalist views  Privilege and sustainability  How Julia felt like she failed at sustainability  There's no formula for what it means to be an environmentalist  Julia's experience with being a vegan Small steps to getting around degenerative systems Accountability and empathy Sustainability and consumerism Intersectional environmentalism Cottage core Gen Z and sustainability  "Trends don't exist outside of social media for my generation." What does slow living mean outside of social media? Julia's slow-living stew Connect with Julia: On Instagram @seekingsustainability.pod Seeking Sustainability Podcast This Episode is Sponsored by Havelock Wool: Visit https://havelockwool.com/gooddirt to learn all about wool insulation! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

In this episode, Mary and Emma discuss the meaning of January 6th as the Feast of Epiphany. According to the Christian Liturgical Calendar, this day commemorates the three Magi's visit to the scene of the nativity and marks the end of the Christmas season. In the Appalachian tradition, Epiphany was known as "Little Christmas" or "Old Christmas," hearkening back to Old World traditions of extending the Christmas season over 12 days as an extended period of celebration and rest, ending with "Little Christmas" on January 6th. This episode concludes with Mary's telling of an Epiphany story from Italy, the Legend of Old Befana, which is a replay from two years ago. Topics Discussed: Epiphany Little Christmas or Old Christmas The Legend of Old Befana About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being. 

Tune in as Mary and Emma each discuss and review their picks for the most impactful episodes from 2022. The year has been so full of fun, informative and inspiring interviews, it's hard to narrow it down, but here are just some of the conversations that stand out as they look back on another year of The Good Dirt. Episodes Discussed: #101 Andrew Schwartz of EcoCiv #104 Heidi Barr and Emma DeLong of the PA Flax Project #80 Lincoln Smith, Forested LLC #96 Marti Buckley #88 Rose and Doug Phillips #110 Stephanie O'Dea #94 Bex Partridge #84 Eliza Greenman About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Tune in for this special winter episode, featuring a holiday reflection and a favorite traditional song, sent to you with love from Mary and Emma. Happy Holidays everyone! Special thank you to The Longest Johns for sharing their cover of Bright Morning Star. About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network.

Our guest today is Christa Norman, a fine artist whose photographic medium is cyanotype. Her work reflects seasons and explores seasons of the human experience. Christa creates floral artwork with flowers grown in her own garden and conceptual collections inspired by her personal life seasons.  We covered a number of topics in this interview, including the dilemma that comes up so often in our conversations regarding the conflict between pursuing our creative passions and making a living, a common theme for creatives in our current economic system. Christa points out that one of our fundamental roles as humans is to be creators of things, but to a certain extent, we've forgotten that role and we've defaulted into our role as consumers. Join us in this conversation as we discuss, among other things, how this affects us as individuals and in our culture as a whole. Topics Covered: Use promo code gooddirt15 for 15% off at Nui Organics Christa's journey with photography, and the path to cyanotype Bringing together creative passion with the need to make a living  What is cyanotype? Louis-Jacques Daguerre Floret Flowers  Our phones, capturing the present moment or taking us out of it? The cost of fine art How Christa's patronage works/ Creating sustainability as an artist Sustainability of Cyanotype as an art medium Cyanotype as a seasonal art What is culture? The role of art in our culture Rae Dunn pottery New York Magazine/ The Cut Article on Rae Dunn Julia Watkins of Simply Living Well Creativity as fundamental to all human Connect with Christa Christa's Website, christanormanstudio.com On Instagram @christanormanstudio About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Our discussion today is with Mary Ellen Dowd, a Communications Associate at TerraCycle, Inc. TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions, creating and operating first-of-their-kind platforms in recycling, recycled materials, and reuse. Across 21 countries, TerraCycle is on a mission to rethink waste and develop practical solutions for today’s complex waste challenges. The company engages an expansive multi-stakeholder community across a wide range of accessible programs, from Fortune 500 companies to schools and individuals, and has raised over $44 million for schools and nonprofits since its founding more than 15 years ago. In this conversation, we talk about how the Terracycle services can bring our home recycling practices to a new level. To learn more about TerraCycle and join them on their journey to move the world from a linear economy to a circular one, please visit www.terracycle.com. Topics Covered: Use promo code gooddirt15 for 15% off at Nui Organics Mary Ellen's background What is Terra Cycle and how they take recycling to the next level The Zero-Waste Box Free Recycling Programs Recycling is a process that is governed by economics What happens to the contents of Zero-Waste Box  Bausch and Lomb partnership Origins of Terracycle The value of trash Eliminating the idea of waste The Loop circular shopping system, or the modern milkman How the good dirt connects to waste and the economy  How can the zero-waste box be more accessible to the individual?  What happens when the Zero Waste Box is returned to Terracycle How Terracycle addresses microplastics  The problem of cigarette butts  Actionable steps for individuals "Wish-cycling" How Terracycle addresses scale Connect with Terracycle: Terracycle's website, terracycle.com On Instagram @terracycle On Facebook @TerraCycle This episode is sponsored by Nui Organics - Use code GoodDirt15 for 15% at nuiorganics.com About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Our guest today is Jeremy Lang of Pela, the company that started with a product that you hold every day - the world’s first compostable phone case. Jeremy had the courage to spend years experimenting with new materials to try and find an alternative to plastic that could be used in everyday products. Pela’s mission is to make sustainable products the new normal and they recently launched another product, a home countertop composter called Lomi to help solve the food waste and plastic problem. Lomi became the most successful cleantech crowdfunding campaign of all time, raising over $9M. Pela and Lomi are now creating a waste innovation category with a goal of eliminating 10 billions pounds of waste on their mission to create a waste-free future, a testament to Jeremy’s belief in creating businesses as a force of good– to leave the world a better place.  We are so much in awe of Jeremy and the innovative technologies he has spearheaded through his company and products. In this episode, we're hearing and talking about new technologies that are already addressing some of our most pressing problems and have given us real hope that some things are moving in the right direction. Topics discussed: The story of Pela and how it started with compostable phone cases  How Pela came up with a home composter The problem of food waste Food waste as a valuable natural resource "Wasting food" vs food waste or food scraps The Lomi home composter From food waste to good dirt Home composter reduces the weight of food waste by 70%   Trials with taking the Lomi compost dirt straight to farms  Demographics of those using the home composter  How the home composter is carbon neutral  End-of-life plan for the home composter Responsibility Economy Cutting out the compost facilities with the home composter The Lomi-approved certification program Compostable materials for everyday life increasing with consumer demand Responsibility of the consumer vs. responsibility of the manufacturer The issue of plastic water bottles being recycled into clothing Can technology help with the current problem of plastic on the planet? Connect with Jeremy: Pela's Website Get your own Lomi Composter! On Instagram @pelacase and @getlomi About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

Our guest today is Laurell Sims, Co-Founder & CEO of Urban Growers Collective in Chicago, here to talk about food accessibility and the development of community-based food systems. Urban Growers Collective (UGC) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that was co-founded by Laurell Sims and Erika Allen in the fall of 2017. Working closely with community partners, their approach is to demonstrate and to support communities in developing systems of their own where food is grown, prepared, and distributed within the community itself. Urban Grower's Collective operates 8 urban farms on 11 acres of land, predominantly located on Chicago’s South Side. These farms are production-oriented but also offer opportunities for staff-led education, training, leadership development, and food distribution. Each farm utilizes organic growing methods, intensive growing practices, and year-round production strategies to best maximize growing space. In this conversation, we talk about the numerous programs operating within UGC that are helping not only to bring food to underserved areas but to facilitate youth involvement and outreach programs for positive community impact.  Laurell is active in the Chicago Food Policy Action Council and formerly served on the Board of Directors for Slow Food Chicago and Green City Market. In 2011, Laurell was selected as a Bold Food Fellow, a State Department exchange with farmers from Uganda and Kenya, and has managed development projects with urban farms in Haiti. In her spare time, Laurell is a volunteer magician for Open Heart Magic which provides bedside magic for hospitalized children. Topics Discussed: How Laurell came to the Urban Grower's Collective ReVision Urban Farm in Boston The impact of the urban farming movement  The eight farms and programs within in the Urban Grower's Collective Healing aspects of community spaces Fresh Moves Mobile Market Linkup Illinois for food assistance Dr. Geeta Maker-Clark Prescription for Health, Howard Brown Health Center Food Justice and privilege  Food waste in Chicago How policy and racism affect grocery store access Farm Bus in Richmond, Mark Lilly Midwest Foods Wholesaler USDA Food boxes April Jones on The Good Dirt Julia Skinner on The Good Dirt The challenge of land access, particularly for BIPOC growers Green Era Urban Farm in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood in Chicago The anaerobic digester as mitigation for food waste Soil contamination and remediation Wasted! The Story of Food Waste Chicago Food Policy Action Council Connect with Laurell & the UGC: Urban Grower's Collective website On Instagram @urbangrowerscollective Donate or Volunteer with the Urban Grower's Collective! About Lady Farmer: Our Website @weareladyfarmer on Instagram Join The Lady Farmer ALMANAC Leave us a voicemail! Call 443-459-1950 and ask a question or share what the good dirt means to you! Email us at thegooddirtpodcast@gmail.com Original music by John Kingsley. The Good Dirt podcast is edited and engineered by Aleksandra van der Westhuizen and produced by Mary Ball. The Good Dirt is a part of the Connectd Podcasts Network. Statements in this podcast have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not to be considered as medical or nutritional advice. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and should not be considered above the advice of your physician. Consult a medical professional when making dietary or lifestyle decisions that could affect your health and well-being.

In celebration of the holiday this week, and upcoming "Black Friday", we're re-airing our favorite slow-living take on the matter...Slow Friday! RE-AIR FROM 11/26/21 You're in for something a little different this Friday...it's a solo show with Mary and Emma! At Lady Farmer, we're always thinking about ways to shift our thinking to live into a more slow and sustainable lifestyle, and today is a great opportunity to do just that. What if Black Friday became Slow Friday, and what would that look like? Join us on this week’s episode of The Good Dirt as we share a bit about our own Christmas memories and experiences with gift-giving as well as how we're thinking about being more mindful with our consumer habits during the holiday season. Enjoy this week's episode, let us know what you think, and we'll be back with another interview next week! Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podchaser, Simplecast, Podtail, or on your favorite podcast platform. Topics Covered: The negative impacts of consumerism and how to think differently about our consumer habits The importance that we have placed on gift-giving and receiving during the holiday season Slow Friday Challenge Resources: Unplug the Christmas Tree Christmas by Peter Spier Follow Us: Our Website Instagram Original Music by John Kingsley @jkingsley1026