thriving farmer

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 husband, Dan, Theresa Podoll runs Prairie Road Organic Seed in Fullerton, ND where they focus on providing their customers with strong, resilient seeds of 'work-horse' varieties. They’ve been seed producers and contract growers for other garden seed companies since 1997 and all of Prairie Road’s seed is grown on their farm which has been certified organic since 1977.

Resources:

Website - https://www.prairieroadorganic.co/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/PrairieRoadOrganicSeed
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theresa_at_prairie_road/

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams. 

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers. 

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

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 operations executive who previously designed digital products for a range of companies from startups to Fortune 500. At Propagate, Jeremy leads technology development & operations. Jeremy holds a B.A. in Entrepreneurship from Miami University. Having worked on organic farms, and being a part of a 3rd generation family timber products business, he is focused on the systemic interplay between agricultural, economic, and cultural paradigms.

Resources:

Website - propagateag.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/propagateag/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/propagate_ag/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/propagateag/

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Unlock the potential of elderberry farming with Growing Farmers! Elderberries, thriving even on marginal land, offer a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs. Not just the berries, but also sticks, flowers, and leaves are in demand, diversifying income streams. 

With initial investments as low as $12.75 for cuttings, the path to a profitable agribusiness is within reach. This resilient crop can be your gateway to tapping into a growing market for health-conscious consumers. 

Start your elderberry venture today and cultivate success. For more details, visit shop.growingfarmers.com.

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 of Virginia. She is an herbalist, avid gardener, and modern day milkmaid as well as the founder of Homesteaders of America. 

 

Resources:
Website - https://thefewellhomestead.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/amy.fewell
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thefewellhomestead

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at HarvestHosts.com today!

What are the unique challenges of growing and milling your own grains?

 On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Alexis Dragovich, co-operator of Mud Run Farms in northeast Ohio. What started out as a 1st generation dairy farm has turned into a father daughter team working hard to make certified organic grains and fresh stone-ground flours more commonplace.

Tune in to hear about Alexis’ passion for healthy grains, small business and their local community. 

You’ll hear:

• How Mud Run Farm got started in growing grains 1:21
• About the kind of mill Mud Run uses 3:11
• What the difference is between hard red wheat and soft red wheat 6:38
• More about how Mud Run Farm markets their products 12:07
• What Alexis’ advise would be to herself at the start of her journey 18:37

 

About the Guest:

Alexis Dragovich is co-operating Mud Run Farm, a small, certified organic farm in Northeast Ohio. What started out as a 1st generation 6-head family dairy farm has turned into a certified organic, diverse small grain farm, mill and business. Along with her father, Alex, Alexis is now focused mainly on producing and milling small grains to produce something that was really lacking in their region and community. This father-daughter team shares a strong passion for organics, the environment, and small businesses.

 

Resources: 

Website - https://www.mudrunfarmorganics.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mudrunfarmorganics
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mudrunfarmorganics

Resource mentioned: Artisan Grain Collaborative

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at HarvestHosts.com today! 

 

How do you take your homestead from beginner to profitable?   

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Ann Accetta-Scott, a dedicated first-generation homesteader and the author behind "The Farm Girl's Guide to Preserving the Harvest." While managing her family farm in Middle Tennessee, Ann shares her journey from self-taught beginnings to becoming a community cultivator and advocate for a simpler, more sustainable way of life.

Tune in to hear how Ann teaches others how to establish a life centered around clean eating, food ownership, and homesteading skills.

You’ll hear:

• About why Ann got started in farming 0:47
• What their biggest challenge was when increasing their farm’s acreage 2:18
• What Ann’s goal was when she started the garden 12:04
• What challenges Ann experienced when moving cross country 14:44
• How Ann designed her garden for preservation 20:08
• Ann’s tips for making a homestead profitable 39:03
• What is covered in The Farm Girl’s Guide to Preserving the Harvest 54:19
  
  

About the Guest:

Ann is a first-generation homesteader who manages her small family farm in southern Middle Tennessee. She is the author of The Farm Girl's Guide to Preserving the Harvest and the content curator for her website, A Farm Girl in the Making. Ann is a teacher by trade but has left the school system to teach individuals how to achieve a simpler and more traditional way of life. 

Resources: 

Website - https://afarmgirlinthemaking.com/
Facebook - A Farm Girl in the Making
Instagram - A Farm Girl in the Making
Her Book The Farm Girl’s Guide to Preserving the Harvest

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

The 2024 Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit is in the books. Did you miss it? No worries! You still have the chance to catch all the invaluable insights and expert advice. Grab your All-Access Pass today and learn at your own pace about innovative farming techniques, effective marketing strategies, and how to maximize yields and profits on your farm or homestead. Visit farmsummits.com now to get your All-Access Pass and start your journey to a more successful and sustainable farming future!

 

Are you ready to take your vegetable farming to the next level?    

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael shares about this year’s Thriving Farmer Summit and this year is all about Vegetables. The Summit is a free event happening January 12-14th and features a lineup of expert speakers covering topics from fertilizer-free farming methods and winter production to balancing family and farming, soil tests, compost and much more.

Tune in to hear about how this year’s Summit offers valuable insights and practical tips for farmers to improve their farming practices and grow better quality vegetables.

Click here to register for the Vegetable Summit.

You’ll hear:

• About what the Thriving Farmer Vegetable Summit is all about 
• Some details about each of this year’s Session Speakers
• What some of Michael’s biggest takeaways were from his interviews
• How to register for the Vegetable Summit

About the Guest:

Michael Kilpatrick is a farmer and educator in Carlisle, Ohio. Along with his wife, Savannah, 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 the Thriving Farmer Online Summits and is dedicated to providing educational resources for farmers.

Together, they reach a community of over 60,000 farmers, homesteaders, and families!

 

Resources: 

Website - Register here for the Vegetable Summit

And if you want to keep the conversation going, join us in our Facebook Group to connect with us and other farmers looking to grow their business!

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

Explore new revenue opportunities with Harvest Hosts! List your farm and connect with a community of more than 250,000 RVers eager to support small businesses! You only need to provide space for at least one RVer to stay overnight. In exchange, the RVers will patronize your farm. No hook-ups or RV services required! Ready to add 15K+ in extra revenue with minimal time investment? Visit us at Harvest Hosts.com today!

 

What lessons can Southern gardeners learn from Melissa Smith's experience with dahlias? 

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Melissa Smith of Fraylick Farm who is a passionate gardener, dahlia enthusiast, and experienced flower farmer. As a Clemson certified Master Gardener and a self-taught expert in the art of cut flower cultivation, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep love for nurturing beauty in every bloom. 

Tune in to hear how Melissa markets her flower farm and her passion for dahlias. 

You’ll hear: 

• How Melissa got started with growing flowers 0:56
• What Fraylick Farm’s marketing looks like 7:30
• How does their wholesale model work 11:30
• About Melissa’s criteria for covering versus not covering the flower buds 32:36
• How much fertilizer farmers should use on dahlias 43:06
• What Melissa’s advice is for someone looking to get started in flower farming 49:47
• About Melissa’s favorite farming tool 54:01

About the Guest:

Melissa Smith is a seasoned gardener and farmer, renowned for her deep love for dahlias and an impressive array of cut flowers. With a gardening journey rooted in the South, Melissa has honed her skills to navigate the challenges of Southern horticulture, turning her dreams of lush, bountiful gardens into a vibrant reality. A Clemson certified Master Gardener, she embodies a hands-on, learn-by-doing approach to flower farming, dedicating her time to thinking, planning, and growing an extensive variety of blooms. 

Resources:

Website - www.fraylick.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FraylickFarms
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flwrtherapy/

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products.

In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

 

How does the concept of value-added thinking apply to both farming and our daily lives? 

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Billy Bond, owner of Perma Pastures Farm, located in North Carolina. From hands-on workshops to online education, Billy and his family share their knowledge and love for permaculture. When he’s not on their farm, he is helping transform damaged and destroyed landscapes into abundant permaculture farms. 

Tune in to hear about permaculture and value-added thinking for your farm!

You’ll hear:

• How Billy got started in farming 0:50
• About the kind of property Perma Pastures Farm is 7:29
• What new homesteaders should focus on first 12:01
• About what Billy’s Bone Sauce is 25:10
• What Billy would do differently given the ability to start from the beginning 31:14

 

About the Guest:

Billy was a city kid. He went to college for a short while before joining the US Army to become an Airborne Sapper. After military service, Billy became an IBEW electrician and completed degrees in biology and business administration. He moonlighted as a part-time talk radio host and learned the craft of fine butchery at The Local Pig in Kansas City, Mo.

Billy was bitten by the permaculture bug and life was never the same. He earned his permaculture design certificate and has since designed several homesteads in several states…and has even installed a permaculture orchard (with chickens) on an active construction site. He loves experimenting and learning!

Resources:

Website - https://permapasturesfarm.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/permapasturesfarm/
YouTube - https://youtube.com/@PermaPasturesFarm21 

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products.

In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

 

What challenges and opportunities arise when starting a farm and retail venture from scratch?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jacob Towe of Jubilee Farms in Pauline, South Carolina. After helping with his family’s Christmas tree farm from an early age, Jacob launched his own regenerative farm as well as a local grocery store focused on real food and farm-to-table connections.  

Tune in to hear how Jacob boot-strapped his way into a successful farm life!

 

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• How Jacob got started in regenerative farming 0:55
• What his biggest takeaways were from his time at Polyface Farm 3:11
• What kind of farmland Jubilee Farm has 9:16
• More about the farm’s grocery store 10:45
• What Jacob would do differently given the opportunity to start over 24:21
• About their store’s customers and what they purchase most 31:08
• What Jacob’s advice is for newer farmers 32:45

 

About the Guest:

Jacob Towe is the owner of Jubilee Farms and co-owner of Farmfare Grocery in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. He has been involved in agriculture from an early age helping with his grandfather's Christmas tree farm and later getting his own chickens. After a summer at Polyface in 2017 he launched Jubilee Farms as a first generation livestock farmer. Recently he opened his first retail location named Farmfare in partnership with his mother Paula. 

Resources:

Website - Jubileefarmssc.com
Farm’s Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jubileefarmssc/
Store’s Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FarmfareLocalGrocery/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jubilee_farms_sc/

 

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor!

MyDigitalFarmer.com was created by CSA farmer and marketing specialist Corinna Bench to help farmers learn the marketing fundamentals — so you can stop feeling uncertain, frustrated, guilty, or inadequate when it comes to selling your products.

In the My Digital Farmer podcast, you'll be exposed to the fundamentals of marketing theory and practice so you can apply them to your own farm and business. She'll cover marketing funnels, copywriting, website messaging, CSA marketing, lead generation, brand building, social media, customer retention, Facebook ads, sales pages, Facebook groups, YouTube, Instagram, email marketing, and stellar customer service.

She also interviews other farmers to find out what’s working (and not working) in farm marketing so you can feel more confident in your ability to convert leads, increase sales, and build a strong brand for your farm.

Subscribe to her show at https://www.mydigitalfarmer.com/podcast

 

Do you know what all goes into garlic growing?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Julie Olberding of Rustic Roots Farm in Alexandria, Minnesota. Their farm balances natural resources with a blend of innovative techniques and traditional methods to produce the highest quality products for their customers.  They specialize in hardneck garlic, maple syrup, asparagus and more using these natural and regenerative methods. 

Tune in to hear about Julie’s award-winning garlic and her advice for new farmers. 

 

You’ll hear:

• How Julie and Chad got started in farming 1:35
• Why Rustic Roots choose garlic to start with 5:07
• Why Rustic Roots does farmers markets 9:35
• About Rustic Roots’ marketing 14:03
• More on the other garlic products they offer 16:57
• How many varieties of garlic they grow 20:30
• What Rustic Roots offers in terms of education 27:01
• About their fertility program 33:53
• What other enterprises and products their farm offers 42:41
• What Julie’s advice is for newer farmers 45:03
• About what Julie would change if she could go back and start over 48:38

 

About the Guest:

Julie Olberding and her family started Rustic Roots Farm near Alexandria, Minnesota. They are first generation farmers now entering their 5th year of farming. They raise specialty crops (hardneck garlic, maple syrup, asparagus and small square bales of hay) using natural, sustainable and regenerative methods. 

They started Rustic Roots Farm to teach their kids the values of independence, hard work, self-reliance, perseverance and creative thinking and they are involved in the day-to-day operations of the farm. In 2022, their farm was honored to be selected as a featured grower at the Minnesota Garlic Festival.

 

Resources:

Website - https://rusticrootsfarm.eatfromfarms.com/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rusticrootsfarmmn
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/rusticrootsfarmmn

 

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.

How do you keep productivity up on your farm?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by John Arbuckle of Singing Pastures Farm. Along with a network of farm partners, John and his family raise heritage breed pigs in the grassy fields of coastal Maine. Hear more about the day-to-day operations and decisions behind this sustainable farm and the uniqueness of their Roam Sticks..

Tune in as we explore their shift from traditional pork production to a product-centric system.  

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• What John’s farming journey was like growing up 2:34
• About the transition from pork to snack sticks 9:26
• How they set their farm up to be a product-centric system 13:26
• About the big system farm changes to help alleviate John’s workload 17:26
• More on where the pork get processed 23:23
• What a typical day on the farm is like for John 25:15
• John’s advice for new farmers 34:24
• About the farm’s distribution 41:43
• What makes Singing Pastures’ Roam Sticks different from other meat sticks 42:44
• What is John’s favorite tool on the farm? 48:09

 

About the Guest:

John Arbuckle, of Singing Pastures Farm is a 9th generation farmer. Along with a network of farm partners, John and his family raise heritage breed pigs in the grassy fields of coastal Maine where they are changing the food system from the ground up. 

Singing Pastures is a 9th generation farm family focusing on creating the mostly unique and delicious snacks out there! We raise pigs on pasture in ways that create nutrient dense meat, heal ecosystems and nurture wildlife.

 

Resources:

 

Website -  https://singingpastures.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/singingpastures/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/singingpastures/

 

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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.

What are the challenges and rewards of transitioning a hobby into a thriving business?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Craig Odem who runs a retail nursery in northwest Alabama. Starting with just a few dozen plants six years ago, Craig and his family have taken their business to a full-scale production and propagation nursery without any background in the industry. He also shares about their nursery growth on YouTube as the Savvy Dirt Farmer.

Tune in to hear how Craig documents their growth and teaches others how to start their own thriving nurseries. 

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• How Craig got interested in plants 1:43
• About the process of taking cuttings and making new plants with them 9:13
• Why Craig recently moved 18:44
• What a typical year in a nursery looks like 20:10
• How Craig runs his clearance sales 28:32
• What specific nursery mix does Craig prefer, if any 40:29
• Where Craig expects his business to look like in 2 years 43:08
• About his nursery’s checkout system on the farm 47:04
• What Craig’s favorite tool on the farm is 47:46

About the Guest:

Craig Odem runs a retail nursery in northwest Alabama with his family. The most unique part of their story is that they started their nursery and Youtube with no experience in either field. What began as a backyard hobby turned into a full-time career, and they share the ups and downs, successes and failures as they learn on YouTube as the Savvy Dirt Farmer.

Resources:

His YouTube Channel: Savvy Dirt Farmer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savvy_dirt_farmer/

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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

 

Could you embrace the "Reverse Pioneer" Lifestyle?

On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Jill Winger, The Homestead Mentor of The Prairie Homestead. Jill has taught thousands of people how to cook nourishing homemade meals, grow food in their backyards, and find joy in a simpler, slower life. Her new book Old Fashioned on Purpose releases today and is a rallying cry for a less industrial, more intentional life.

Tune in to hear how Jill sees herself as a Reverse Pioneer and how you also could start to return to your roots. 

In this episode, you’ll hear…

• Why Jill sees herself as a “Reverse Pioneer” 1:32
• About what the homesteading movement is like right now 2:55
• What it looks like to “return to our roots” 5:04
• How consumer culture is harming society 10:18
• About what the human zoo is 14:36
• How the Chugwater Soda Fountain got started 17:03
• What the biggest lessons and takeaways were from starting that business 19:48
• About their beef business 25:25
• More about her blog and new book 29:08
• About what topics people are interested in right now 30:47
• About the next frontier 40:03

About the Guest:

Jill Winger is the founder of The Prairie Homestead, one of the foremost homesteading websites since 2010. She is dedicated to helping others learn how to grow their own food and live a more fulfilling, old-fashioned life. Her new book, Old Fashioned on Purpose, is a rallying cry for a less industrial, more intentional life. 

Her practical and authentic style of teaching and storytelling has won the hearts of hundreds of thousands of homesteaders across social media and through the top-ranked Old Fashioned on Purpose podcast and the best-selling Prairie Homestead Cookbook.

 

Resources:

Website: www.theprairiehomestead.com
Her new book: Old Fashioned on Purpose
Their grass-fed & finished Beef Business - Genuine Beef Co (They ship nationwide!)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theprairiehomestead
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jill.winger

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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

 

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

 

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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!

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

 

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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

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

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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!

With season 2, we're relaunching the show under a new name (Food Chain Wars). Our vision is to grow the show into the most valuble free resource for farm2fork marketers (regardless if you use GrazeCart or not).

We're here to help you climb the value-chain and reclaim your rightful market-share from big-ag and greedy 'greenwashing' corperations. That's what this show is about!

Sound interesting? Catch the trailer to learn more about what to expect out of season 2!