The Thriving Farmer Podcast

How can collaborative farming efforts transform the CSA experience for farmers and customers alike? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by first-generation farmers Lyndsey Mulherin of Whistlepig Farm and Joe Redden of Black Fox Farm. Although they operate separate farm businesses, Lyndsey and Joe share land in Boise, Idaho, where they have combined efforts on a collaborative CSA, invested in shared infrastructure, and manage joint perennial crops.  Tune in as they share their unique approach to working together while maintaining distinct farm identities. Episode Highlights: Farm Focus: What differentiates Whistlepig Farm from Black Fox Farm? [2:30] Boise's Climate: How does the Idaho climate impact their farming operations? [8:44] Customer Base: Who are their primary CSA customers? [16:25] Coping with Intense Summer Heat: Which crops thrive better in Boise's extreme weather? [22:35] Joint CSA Management: How do they collaborate on decisions for the CSA program? [27:27] Tips for

How can traditional organic practices create healthier soils and better-tasting blueberries? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael sits down with Hugh Kent of King Grove Organic Farm in Florida. Alongside his wife, Lisa, he grows certified organic blueberries using an innovative, sustainable growing system. Recently, they’ve shifted from wholesale to direct retail sales, inspired by their experience with buyers and a belief in the potential of direct sales for farmers. Hugh discusses this plus the benefits of real organic practices, and the challenges they’ve faced, from labor management to irrigation. Tune in to hear about their journey to bring truly organic blueberries to your table and the lessons learned along the way. Episode Highlights: Location and Scale: Where is King Grove Organic Farm situated, and how big is it? [1:02] Vinegar as a Herbicide: How does Hugh use vinegar for weed control and soil health? [10:48] Labor Challenges: How do they manage labor needs during peak harvest s

How can drip irrigation help farmers conserve water and improve crop health? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael chats with Anthony Tasselli, the Technical Sales Manager for Toro Ag. With over ten years of experience in irrigation system design and project management, Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge on drip irrigation systems, including the use of filters, valves, and automation products. He is dedicated to helping farmers increase efficiency and reduce water use through sustainable irrigation practices. Tune in as Anthony shares his insights into the benefits of micro irrigation, the latest innovations in automation, and practical advice for tackling common issues like salt buildup in irrigation systems. Episode Highlights: Irrigation Beginnings: What inspired Anthony to pursue a career in irrigation? [1:02] Micro Irrigation Basics: What is micro irrigation, and how can it benefit farmers? [7:16] California's Drip Irrigation: What portion of California's agriculture relies on drip

What are the biggest obstacles clam farmers face in sustaining their operations after severe storms? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Michael Presley Bobbitt, a part-time clam farmer and novelist from Cedar Key, Florida. Alongside his creative career, Michael is dedicated to protecting Cedar Key’s estuary and the local clam farming industry, especially after recent hurricanes caused millions of dollars in losses for Florida clam farmers. Tune in as Michael shares his journey of balancing a creative career with clam farming, his passion for preserving Cedar Key’s unique ecosystem, and how clam farming supports both the economy and the environment. Episode Highlights: Hurricane Impact: How did Hurricane Helene affect Cedar Key and local clam farms? [0:59] Clam Farming 101: What’s involved in clam farming, and why is Cedar Key ideal for it? [2:30] Clam Lifecycle: How do clams grow, and what’s unique about their farming process? [5:56] Challenges in Clam Farming: What threats

How can a community come together to restore its local food system after a devastating storm? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Alyson Wade of The Farm Connection, a plant nursery and garden center in Marshall, North Carolina. Alyson co-founded WNC Grassroots Media in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which left much of Western North Carolina’s farming community in need of support. Through WNC Grassroots Media, Alyson and her team are working to uplift local farmers and the regional food system through impactful storytelling and humanitarian projects. Tune in as Alyson discusses the aftermath of the storm, the critical importance of community solidarity, and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the local food system. Episode Highlights: Storm Impact: How badly did Marshall, NC get impacted by Hurricane Helene’s rains? [1:16] Toxic Aftermath: What were the impacts of substances other than water? [5:51] Relief Efforts: What is being done to assist those affected

How can first-generation farmers successfully build a thriving community-supported agriculture (CSA) program? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Emma Jagoz, founder and owner of Moon Valley Farm in Woodsboro, Maryland. Moon Valley Farm operates on 70 acres, growing specialty and staple vegetables and herbs for a year-round CSA program and restaurants in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Tune in as Emma shares her inspiring journey from a beginner farmer to the leader of a successful organic farm dedicated to supporting local food systems and schools.   Episode Highlights: Farming Journey: How did Emma get started in farming? [0:58] Market Growth: How did the market for Moon Valley’s products grow? [6:48] Food Hub Development: What was the process of building out the food hub? [16:50] Production Systems: What is their production system like? [24:49] Organic Certification: What went into the decision to go certified organic? [28:58] Future Plans: What is in store for the futu

How can farmers balance idealism with practicality when starting a farm from scratch? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Noah East, a farmer, writer, and educator from Wild East Farm in Western North Carolina. Along with his wife, Lyric, Noah has dedicated his efforts to building a farm focused on perennial production, agroforestry, and fostering community food security.  Tune in as Noah shares the challenges and successes of accessing land, establishing their farm, and diversifying their enterprises with a mix of vegetables, broilers, and agroforestry systems.  Important Update: After recording this episode, Noah’s farm was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, causing significant damage. We’re including a GoFundMe link below to support food relief efforts through the Mother Earth Food Hub, an Asheville-based farm-to-home delivery service working with local farmers to provide fresh food to the community in the aftermath of the hurricane.   Episode Highlights: Farming Roots: What led

How can strawberry growers improve soil health and prevent crop diseases for more sustainable production? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by J.R. Odom, a seasoned strawberry grower from Goldsboro, North Carolina, and the president of the North Carolina Strawberry Association. J.R. has been growing strawberries since 2010 and is committed to improving his farm's soil health using practices such as crop rotation, compost application, and planting summer cover crops. He shares his insights on disease prevention and what’s coming up for the industry. Tune in to learn more about how J.R. and other growers are innovating to improve strawberry production while safeguarding their crops against emerging threats!   Episode Highlights: Crop Diseases: What upcoming disease could potentially be damaging to crops? [1:08] Prevention: Recommended methods for disease prevention [6:44] Cutoffs vs. Plugs: What are the differences between these two planting methods? [9:42] Challenges: How diebac

How can urban farming not only feed a community but also foster connection and education? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Anna Withers and Kevin Prather from Springfield Community Gardens. Together, they dive into the organization’s mission to promote healthy local food access and support aspiring farmers. Learn how Springfield Community Gardens has grown to manage 16 gardens across the city, offering educational programs and farmer incubator opportunities, all while practicing regenerative agriculture and fostering community involvement. Tune in to discover how urban farming initiatives like Springfield Community Gardens are shaping the future of local food systems and inspiring others to connect with the land!   Episode Highlights: Beginnings: Anna and Kevin’s journey into farming [1:03] Mission: What Springfield Community Gardens is all about [4:36] Education: Focus of their farmer incubator program [13:18] Season Extension: Tunnels and hoop houses on the farm [18:04]

Could mastering freeze drying be the next step in enhancing your farm's profitability and sustainability? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Don Adams who, along with his wife Kathy, produce 80 percent of their own food on their farmstead, Jazzberry Farm in Taft, Tennessee. They practice permaculture and organic farming, cultivating a variety of crops, raising goats for milk and cheese, and preserving their harvests through freeze-drying. Don't miss this episode on transforming fresh produce into long-lasting, high-flavor products with the power of freeze drying.   Episode Highlights: Getting Started: Don’s journey into farming [1:44] Range of Operations: What Don does on Jazzberry Farm [9:20] Product Pricing: The price range for Jazzberry’s products [34:43] Marketing and Sales: Where and how Don markets and sells their products [41:59] Goats on the Farm: The purpose of goats at Jazzberry [48:58] Freeze Dryer Tips: More tips from Don on using the freeze dryer [54:17]   Abo

How can a small farm thrive with minimal off-farm inputs, using only what nature provides to create a sustainable, self-sufficient ecosystem? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Shawn and Beth Dougherty, who have mastered the art of farming by relying on natural systems and resources to sustain their diverse, thriving farm. Using intensive grazing as their primary source of food energy, Shawn and Beth raise a diverse range of livestock producing most of the food, and feed, on their farm. Don't miss this episode where they share valuable insights on regenerative farming, adaptive genetics, and making economically sound decisions for long-term sustainability. Episode Highlights: Fertility Program: What constitutes the fertility program on the property [1:48] Pig Feed: What do they feed their pigs? [7:58] Adaptive Genetics: What they know about adaptive genetics in farm animals [21:04] Pig Breeds: Which breeds of pigs do better than others? [30:33] Book Rationale: The rationale

  How can no-till farming and a focus on soil health create a successful farm that serves top restaurants and local markets? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer podcast, Michael is joined by Luke Sheldrick, Owner of Terramor Farm in Burnstown, Ontario. With a background in the restaurant industry, Luke and his partner Dana Moores have combined their passion for high-quality food and sustainable farming to create a thriving farm that serves top restaurants, markets, and a growing CSA program in the Ottawa Valley. Don’t miss this episode to hear how Luke and Dana use no-till methods, natural amendments, and maintain their focus on soil health to produce 30+ varieties of delicious, nutrient-rich vegetables. Episode Highlights: Beginnings: How Luke started his journey in farming [1:18] Property Search: Key characteristics Luke sought in a property [6:44] Season Extension: Tunnels used at Terramor [19:18] Greenhouse Management: Watering schedule managed by Orisha [30:09] Sales and Distribution:

How can you use email to build customer relationships and get more sales as a small farmer? In today’s episode, Erika Tebbens returns to the show to talk to us about email marketing. Erika is passionate about relationship-driven, connection-centered sales and marketing practices; and loves being a catalyst for micro enterprises to thrive. She has been running & supporting businesses of all kinds and sizes for 20 years now, from solo-operations to multimillion-dollar companies with teams. Over those two decades she has served hundreds of clients, helping them develop business strategies in alignment with their values. Today you’ll learn how Erika tackles email marketing for farm businesses!  FREE DOWNLOAD:"4 Ways to Gain Email Subscribers and Grow Your Audience"   Episode Highlights: Strategy: Why would farmers want to do email marketing? [3:28] Starting Out: How would you go about getting folks on your email marketing list? [8:39] Choosing Platforms: What platforms does Erika use for hosting emails? [16

How does a family farm in alpine New Zealand use a diverse range of income streams to thrive? On this episode we’re joined by Lisa Johnston, operator of Frog Song Farm, located in Wanaka, New Zealand. Lisa is a farmer who wears many hats, juggling both an organic market garden and orchard pruning business. She also roasts and sells chestnuts at events and markets through her side business Village Nuts. Frog Song Farm’s mission is one of regeneration and revegetation. For years Lisa and her family have studied and explored natural farming, permaculture, terraquaculture and traditional farming of the Asia Pacific. They are convinced that the farming systems of New Zealand need to undergo a paradigm shift from farming dehydrated grassed landscapes to farming diverse polycultures in hydrated, treed landscapes. From industrial farming to artisan farming. Growing better, not bigger.  As the farm emerges from this phase of intensive development, Frog Song is looking forward to welcoming more people to the land, as W

What goes into cultivating healthy, high-yield transplants that take off instead of struggling when transferred to the field? Find out from Sam Tilton, the organizer of the annual Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day. 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. Earlier in the year, he joined the Growing Farmers 2024 Vegetable Summit as one of our guest speakers on weed control. Tune in to hear why Sam recommends transplants over direct seeding, and what methods he uses to ensure that transplants are healthy and strong before moving to the field. Episode Highlights: Why Transplants?: What are transplants and why would a farmer want them over direct seeding? [3:39] Scheduling: What should a transplant schedule look like? [9:54] Seed Preservation: How are seeds handled in the process? [13:08] Germ Testing: Does Sam do any individual germ testing? [16:36] Seed Mix: What is

How can a small farm near downtown Orlando implement bio-intensive and regenerative practices to thrive year-round? Find out in this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Mike Garcia of Everoak Farm in Orlando, FL. Together with his wife Nikki, Mike runs a small, bio-intensive, and regenerative family farm where they grow Certified Naturally Grown fruits and vegetables, raise pastured poultry, and maintain a thriving apiary. Tune in to hear Mike Garcia's insights on creating a diverse and sustainable agroecology at Ever Oak Farm in the heart of central Florida. Episode Highlights: Agroforestry: Types of plants grown at Everoak [3:22] Composting: How compost is made at Everoak [12:59] Application: Spraying compost methods [16:26] Market Garden: Crops grown in the market garden [18:05] Pest Management: Strategies for keeping insects at bay [26:30] Succession Planning: Winter planning techniques [27:59] Farm Interest: Methods to bring interest to the farm [36:01] Don't miss this epis

How can small-scale farmers balance sustainability and profitability while building strong community connections? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Kat and Kolin who own and operate Starry Ridge Farm, a regenerative hillside farm in Northern New York. In addition to producing vegetables, flowers, maple syrup, and pastured livestock, they are dedicated to building community through events and their soon-to-open farm store. Tune in to hear how Kat and Kolin run their farm business together while creating a local culture and community around organic farming and food.  Episode Highlights: Development: How Starry Ridge Farms started [1:41] Division of Labor: How are responsibilities divided out [3:55] Tunnel Size: Season Extension and Farm Store Construction [15:45] Customer Demographics: Customer Base and Marketing [21:03] Soil Health Improvement: Low-Till and No-Till Methods [26:04] Future Plans: Expansion and Increasing Community Involvement [29:19] Don't miss this episod

Why has hemp, with its vast potential and numerous sustainable uses, faced so many challenges and misconceptions? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Shawn Patrick House, CEO of Lancaster Trading House and creator of Hempzels, the original hemp pretzel. With over 30 years in the hemp industry, Shawn has pioneered innovative hemp products, from pretzels to dairy-free ice cream, and is a passionate advocate for sustainable agriculture and industrial hemp. Tune in to hear about Shawn Patrick House's journey in the hemp industry. Episode Highlights: Introductions: Why Hemp? [0:54] Full Potential: The History of Hemp [2:56] Multi-use: Different Types of Hemp and Their Uses [8:01] Road Blocks: Challenges Faced in the Hemp Industry [11:48] Polyculture: Hemp as a Rotation Crop [28:18] Sustainability: The Versatility of Hemp as a Sustainable Resource [34:23] Products and Distribution: How to find Lancaster products [43:42] Don't miss this episode on the exciting developments in

How can diversifying a farm business lead to greater resilience and sustainability? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Garrett Miller who is the owner behind Finger Lakes Cider House at Good Life Farm. Garrett is dedicated to organic practices, offering visitors artisan ciders, locally-sourced meals, and u-pick experiences in a vibrant, musical setting amidst New York’s beautiful apple country.  Tune in to hear Garrett share his journey in organic apple farming, the challenges he faces, and how he diversifies his farm business to create a thriving community hub. Episode Highlights: Farming Beginnings: How Garrett got started in farming [2:48]  Toughest Tasks: Starting with Bare Land and Building Infrastructure [12:17] Team Selection: Onboarding and Managing Employees [29:18]  Funding Methods: Financing and Borrowing for Farm Projects [35:05]  Visitor Numbers: Managing Visitor Traffic and Seasonal Variations [37:13]  Advice for Aspiring Farmers: Garrett’s advice for starting a

How can homesteading and food sovereignty reshape our approach to personal and community resilience? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Lucy Brenton who is an activist dedicated to promoting freedom over our bodies and the food we eat. After running twice for the US Senate in Indiana, Lucy is now transforming 6 acres into a self-sufficient homestead and building a community of like-minded homesteaders focused on independence and sustainability. Tune in to learn how Lucy Brenton combines homesteading and political advocacy to promote personal freedom and sustainability. Episode Highlights: Homesteading Movement: How Lucy got into the homesteading movement [0:57]  Political Aspect: What got Lucy into the political aspect of food [4:45]  Private Land Contracts: How a private land contract operates [9:10]  Land Search: What Lucy was looking for in terms of land [15:47]  Homestead Network: What is the Homestead Network [30:05]   Don't miss this episode where Lucy