The Thriving Farmer Podcast

How can engaging the community through farming transform lives? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Gabe Madison who is the President of Bonton Farms, a transformative urban farm in South Dallas. Gabe provides strategic oversight for the farm's expanding operations and community programs, leveraging over two decades of corporate leadership experience to disrupt inequitable systems and foster community growth. Tune in to hear how Gabe Madison leverages her corporate leadership experience to guide Bonton Farms' transformative urban farming initiatives and community programs in South Dallas. Episode Highlights: Corporate Background: Gabe’s role before joining Bonton Farms [1:09]  Farm Overview: What Bonton Farms does [5:03]  The “Barndominium”: Its purpose and use [9:56]  Recent Changes: Updates on the farm since Gabe's arrival [13:17]  Staff Size: How big the Bonton Farms staff is [22:55]  Apprenticeships: How apprenticeships work at Bonton Farms [27:00]  Farmer’s Market: What

What advice would a seasoned farmer give to those aspiring to start their own farm? Find out in this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast where Michael is joined by Julie Rawson who is co-owner of Many Hands Organic Farm in Barre, Massachusetts. After growing up on a conventional farm in Illinois, Julie, along with her husband Jack, transitioned to organic farming in 1982, where she has become a pioneer in soil fertility and carbon sequestration. Tune in to hear Julie Rawson's journey from conventional to organic farming and her insights on sustainable practices. Episode Highlights: Conventional Farming: Julie’s journey from conventional to organic [1:04] Farm Goals: Julie’s objectives with her Massachusetts farm [4:28] Orchard Details: More about her farm's orchards [13:14] Tree Mulching: Learn about how Julie mulches her fruit trees [20:44] Medicinal Plants: Hear about the medicinal plants Julie grows [25:29] Tomato Varieties: Julie’s favorite tomatoes [30:20] Educational Offerings: The types of educ

Has the homesteading movement finally peaked? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael explores this question and more with Melissa K. Norris who is a fifth-generation homesteader, author and educator in Washington state. Melissa inspires and guides thousands of fellow homesteaders through her website, podcast, and books on creating a self-sustaining home and kitchen to help further preserve the old ways of farm-to-table living.  Tune in to hear about the transformational power of sustainable living and the value of a supportive homesteading community.  Episode Highlights: Five Generations: More on Melissa’s family history in homesteading [1:05] Health Challenges: The Impact of Food Choices on Health and Holistic Living [7:59] Sharing with Others: About Melissa’s journey to educating others [15:21] Homestead Living: Learn about the magazine Melissa co-founded [17:45] Community Sufficiency: Melissa’s take on the importance of community [21:14] Spousal Support: Getting the Spouse on Board wi

Why is it important to share the stories of small-scale farmers? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Olivia Schoentrup, a sixth-generation farmer who has transitioned from traditional farming to RV living and farm touring. Olivia shares her unique journey, shedding light on the challenges of scaling up a small farm and the critical importance of sharing the stories of small farmers. Tune in to learn more about Olivia's transformative journey and the innovative practices shaping the future of farming. Episode Highlights: Olivia’s Farming Journey: How Olivia’s farming endeavors came to be [1:02] Market Insights: What were the markets for Schoentrup Farms [7:14] Influential Farmers: Learn about some innovative farmers [15:46] Farm Visits: Hear about the smaller farms that Olivia has visited [20:21] Lessons Learned: Hear about what Olivia has learned through her journeys [27:21] Connect with Olivia: Follow Olivia on their travels [31:21] About the Guest: Olivia Schoentrup is

Have you ever wondered how traditional oxen power can transform modern farming? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Melanie Cunningham of Shakefork Community Farm in Northern California. Along with her husband, Kevin, they grow a variety of vegetables, strawberries, and pasture-raised livestock using permanent raised beds, low-till methods, and draft oxen power. Tune in to hear about this oxen-powered and diversified regenerative market & CSA farm! Episode Highlights: Melanie's Farming Journey: Hear how Melanie found her passion for farming [1:36] Shakefork Farm: How they run the farm [8:22] Draft oxen power: Learn more about how they incorporated oxen [11:04] No-till: More about their bed preparation process [15:04] Sales Outlets: Some of the places that Shakefork markets their products [23:17] Strawberry Success: Learn more about their growing strawberry process [27:30] Tips for New Farmers: Hear Melanie’s advice for new farmers [35:47] Tool Time: Melanie’s favorite tool

How do you successfully balance family and farm life? Find out in this episode of the podcast with Ray Tyler! Ray has previously been on the podcast and he also participated in our Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit this past January. Ray is an inspiring figure in the world of sustainable agriculture and is a dedicated family man, self-made farmer, and innovative educator at Rose Creek Farms. Tune in to learn how to balance farming with family life and make a meaningful impact. Episode Highlights: All about Ray: Ray Tyler's start into farming [1:13] Essential elements: Basic principles to apply on your farm [6:27] It’s All in the Family: Practical Applications and Family Integration on the Farm [23:26] Sustainability: Transitioning to a Sustainable Farming Lifestyle [32:03] Q&A: Implementing Family-Friendly Farming Practices [36:59] About the Guest: Ray Tyler, along with his wife Ashley, embarked on a farming journey fueled by passion and determination. Despite starting with zero savings and faci

How can shifting from profit-driven farming to a nonprofit model enhance food production and community well-being? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Jim Sander of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina. After a successful career selling to local markets and CSAs, Jim shifted his farm’s focus to growing produce exclusively for local food relief groups using regenerative techniques, increasing both food production and personal fulfillment. Tune in to hear how Jim has transformed his passion for farming into a powerful force for community good. Episode Highlights: Jim's Farming Journey: Discover how Jim’s farming journey began. [1:40] Challenging Beginnings: Hear about Jim’s first year of growing. [4:11] Evolution of Wildflower Lane: Learn how his farm evolved into what it is today. [9:02] Crop Planning Challenges: Discover the difficulties of crop planning at Wildflower Lane. [23:02] Soil Fertility Program: Understand how the soil fertility program works. [24:38] Starting a

How can a zero-waste ecosystem benefit both the environment and the local community? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Will Harris, a fourth-generation farmer and the owner of White Oak Pastures. His regenerative farm maintains a zero-waste ecosystem that supports 10 species of animals and produces everything from high-quality meats to organic fertilizers, demonstrating their commitment to land, livestock, and community. Tune in to hear about Will’s journey from an industrial cattle operation to a zero-waste regenerative farm. Episode Highlights: Will's Farming Journey: Discover how Will’s farming journey began. [2:56] Joining Whole Foods: Explore how Will began his journey with Whole Foods. [6:56] On-Farm Processing: Discover the premise behind White Oak Pastures' on-farm processing [11:24] Their Commitment: Learn how White Oak Pastures implements its zero-waste policy. [21:01] The White Oak Team: Get insights into the size and structure of the White Oak team. [30:01] A

What could you achieve with an extra 10 hours each week on your farm? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Ari Memar, the founder and CEO of Farmhand. Ari combines his tech expertise with a passion for sustainable agriculture to help local farmers boost their profits and cut down their workload, all through innovative technology. Tune in to discover how this unique service can help you save time and money! Episode Highlights: Ari's Farming Journey: Discover how Ari transitioned from tech enthusiast to farming innovator. [1:41] Exploring Farmhand: Learn how Farmhand supports farmers and enhances agricultural practices. [5:53] Farmhand in Action: Hear how farmers use Farmhand to streamline their operations and boost business. [16:17] Simplicity and Accessibility: Find out what makes Farmhand a user-friendly solution for modern farmers. [18:57] Custom Solutions: Dive into the customization options Farmhand offers to meet diverse farming needs. [21:25] Website Building:

How can suburban spaces transform into sustainable farming hubs? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bri Bosch who runs Blossom & Branch Farm in Colorado. On 1.7 acres in the suburbs of Denver, Briana and her husband have been blending budget-friendly farming with environmental stewardship, and offering educational classes and sustainable wedding florals. Listen in to hear how Bri incorporates cover crops, plastic-free practices, and holistic animal grazing to produce healthy soil and beautiful flowers. You’ll hear: What it’s like to farm in the suburbs 1:39 Why and how Bri’s farm has gone plastic-free 14:34 About the mulch they use on their garden 17:23 More about their unique seed starting process using wool 21:44 What the current main focuses are on the farm right now 29:53 About the types of classes they offer 32:22 More about how Briana manages the farm’s social media 58:04 About the Guest: Briana is a fifth generation farmer running her own regenerative flower

Does a farm run by its workers affect its success and how it operates? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael talks with Hannah Breckbill, who helped start Humble Hands Harvest. This organic farm in Northeast Iowa is run by its workers. Now in her 12th year, Hannah and her team practice no-till farming, showing their dedication to sustainable food and supporting the local community. Listen in to find out how Hannah runs this community-focused, worker-owned farm. You’ll hear: How Hannah got started in sustainable agriculture 1:00 About Humble Hands’ journey to owning land  5:01 What Certified Organic means to Hannah 8:51 About what the help on the farm is like as a worker-owned farm 11:06 More about the biggest challenges Humble Hands faces with their business model 18:37 About what kind of education/encouragement they offer the queer farming community 29:38 What Hannah’s advice is for beginning farmers 31:43 About the Guest: Hannah is starting her 12th season with Humble Hands Harves

What are the key benefits of integrating advanced technology into greenhouse construction? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Josh Holleb who is the Systems Integration Specialist at Ceres Greenhouse Solutions. Josh combines his construction and farming expertise to help create sustainable growing spaces that blend technology with smart design. Tune in to hear about sustainable greenhouses that blend technology with smart design. You’ll hear: How Josh got into greenhouses 0:51 More about the types of greenhouses they build 2:29 About the estimated costs for Ceres’ greenhouse designs 13:07 What are the biggest principles Josh has learned while working with Ceres 17:44 About the new markets Ceres has been exploring 22:17 More about The Vesta 23:46 How Ceres’ practices integrate with permaculture 30:12 About the Guest: Josh Holleb has been working at the intersection of construction and agriculture for over 15 years. From running organic farms to building permaculture sites

What are the biggest challenges in fruit farming? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Bryce Loewen of Blossom Bluff Orchards as he shares his journey in agriculture and the challenges of organic fruit farming in California's Central Valley. He discusses the life cycle of orchards, the yield per acre of stone fruits, and the importance of diversity in fruit varieties.  Tune in to hear about this inspirational, multigenerational farm. You’ll hear: About Bryce’s journey into agriculture 0:56 More on Blossom Bluff’s average stone fruit yield per acre 9:06 What some of the growing challenges are 13:19 About how the seasons go on the farm 15:22 More about Blossom Bluff’s sales venues 21:06 What Bryce’s intentions are for the farm’s future 33:37 Bryce’s advice for people thinking of starting a farm 39:24 About the Guest: Bryce is a fourth generation farmer at Blossom Bluff Orchards. He and his sister Renata grew up in a house on the bluff of the Kings River that their parents (

How has organic farming evolved over the years and what might the future hold? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Paul Muller who is a part of the pioneering force at Full Belly Farm, a 450-acre certified organic farm in North Central California. For over four decades, the farm has championed economic stability, year-round employment, and a strong community connection, ensuring nourishment for this generation and those to come. Tune in to hear all about how Paul ensures that this large organic farm continues to thrive! You’ll hear: How Paul got started in farming 0:59 About the Full Belly team 10:20 More on the history of organic farming and the Real Organic Project 15:48 About Paul’s take about soil science 22:28 How Full Belly uses cover crops 34:39 What Paul is doing to bring up the next generation of farmers at Full Belly 46:15 About Paul’s advice for new farmers 56:15 About the Guest: Paul Muller farms with family and partners at Full Belly farm, a diversified 450 a

How does the health of soil directly impact global hunger solutions? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., who is President and CEO of ECHO, a global Christian organization focused on empowering the undernourished through sustainable hunger solutions. With over 15 years of international experience, Abram leads the charge to help foster sustainable agricultural practices and holistic missions worldwide. Tune in to hear how Abram leads ECHO to help small farmers thrive around the world! You’ll hear: How Abram got started in his career 1:02 More about Abram’s time working with government agencies  3:49 About some of the problems facing small farmers around the world 13:02 How ECHO helps farmers maintain organic matter in their soil 23:53 More about how ECHO provides pertinent information to people regarding conventional fertilizers 35:02 About the Guest: Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., is the President/CEO of ECHO, a global Christian technical resourcing and

How can SEO transform your farm's online visibility? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julia Bocchese, a SEO Consultant for agriculture and horticulture businesses and founder of Homegrown Reach. With a deep passion for supporting local agriculture, Julia focuses on making businesses easily discoverable to their ideal customers through tailored optimization strategies. Tune in to hear how you can utilize SEO to reach more farm customers. You’ll hear: About what SEO is 2:19 How you should showcase your images 8:46 Whether people should use AI to generate their ad copy 13:34 More on what platforms Julia recommends 14:35 What specific SEO services Julia offers 19:12 What Julia’s advice is for someone who wants to dive into SEO 22:38 About the Guest: Julia Bocchese is an SEO Consultant for agriculture and horticulture businesses at Homegrown Reach and is the first SEO professor at Drexel University. Her goal is to make SEO strategies approachable and easy to implement for al

How can small farms compete in a wholesale market dominated by large agricultural businesses? On this episode, Michael is joined by Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou who co-runs Brisa Ranch in California's Pescadero area. Together with his farm partners, their farm offers a variety of crops grown regeneratively on ecologically rich farmland for mainly local wholesale distribution.  Tune in to hear how Cole’s farm is successfully geared to wholesalers than direct to consumer. You’ll hear: About where Brisa Ranch is located 0:56 More about how they make their deliveries 3:16 What a typical week on the farm is like 5:22 About the soil fertility on the farm 8:35 More about their two irrigation systems they have 16:13 About the other owners and the kind of crew they maintain 24:50 What the biggest challenge has been since Brisa Ranch started  35:37 About the Guest: Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou, along with Cristóbal Cruz Hernández and Verónica Mazariegos-Anastassiou, co-own Brisa Ranch which grows a diverse range of

How many plants does it take to get a pound of tomato seeds? On this episode we’re joined by Theresa Podoll from Prairie Road Organic Seed in Fullerton, North Dakota. Since 1997, Theresa and her husband, Dan, have been passionate about providing resilient, organic seed varieties with a focus on taste and abundance for their customers.  Tune in to hear about the important need for regional seed supplies and the role of seed companies in providing resources and support to gardeners. You’ll hear: How Theresa got started in farming and seed production 0:50 What Real Certified Organic means to Theresa 7:53 More about which seed crops use the most nutrients 13:48 About the methods they used to harvest their seeds 17:08 What is the hardest part of seed production, according to Theresa 26:54 What advice Theresa would give someone starting in seed production 35:09 About how many plants does it typically take to get a pound of tomato seed 41:17 More about their biggest challenges 42:31 About the Guest: Along with her

Can agroforestry boost farm profitability? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jeremy Kaufman who is Chief of Operations at Propagate, a leader in Agroforestry. Along with his team, Jeremy is fully committed to integrating agroforestry into farming to increase farm profits, decrease erosion and nutrient loss, and promote the broad use of sustainable farming methods.  Tune in to hear how integrating agroforestry into traditional farming practices can transform the agricultural landscape. You’ll hear: How Propagate Ag got started 1:03 About some of the large projects Propagate is currently working on 4:20 More about the motivation behind moving entirely to agroforestry 15:17 How Propagate aims to create a domestic wholesale market for chestnuts 18:42 About Propagate’s partnership with Rodale Institute 20:51 How Propagate handles marketing and buyer engagement 36:38 What Jeremy’s favorite tool is on the farm 44:43 About the Guest: Jeremy is an entrepreneur, designer and operati

Are you looking for more community and education on homesteading? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Amy Fewell, who is the visionary behind Homesteaders of America. As a published author, herbalist, and modern-day milkmaid, Amy nurtures her passion for self-sufficiency on her family’s farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.  Tune in to hear more about herbalism and community cultivation from this inspiring homesteader. You’ll hear: When Amy got into homesteading 1:24 Some of Amy’s suggestions for getting kids to eat healthier 4:59 How Homesteaders of America creates a sense of community 15:39 About Amy’s favorite herbs 20:33 What Amy’s advice is for someone just getting into homesteading 25:45 More on the future plan for Homesteaders of America 42:07 What Amy’s favorite homesteading tool is 44:24 About the Guest: Amy Fewell is the author of two published books, and runs a homestead alongside her husband and three children in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains