The Thriving Farmer Podcast

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:[0:54] Full Potential:[2:56]Multi-use: [8:01]Road Blocks:[11:48]Polyculture:[28:18]Sustainability: [34:23] Products and Distribution: [43:42] Don't miss this episode on the exciting developments in the hemp industry and the future of hemp-based products with Shawn Patrick House. About the Guest: Shawn Patrick House is an old school hempentrepreneur and might be the Forest Gump of hemp. A political activist who ran for Congress in 2016, he's been advocating for true cannabis hemp almost half of his life. He has survived the government hemp food ban from 2000-2004 and he has quite an interesting story and angle when it comes to the future of hemp. Connect with Shawn: HempzelsFollow on InstagramLike on Facebook The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers! Are you tired of guessing how to price your farm-fresh vegetables? Stop second-guessing and start maximizing your profits with our Vegetable Pricing Guide and Calculator. Whether you sell at farmers markets, a farm store, or anywhere else, our resources and tutorials will help you set prices based on your production costs and desired profit margins. Don’t let uncertainty dictate your pricing strategy. Join countless farmers who’ve transformed their pricing game with the Vegetable Pricing Guide. Visit us now at growingfarmers.com/veggieguide and take control of your profitability!

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:[2:48] Toughest Tasks:[12:17]Team Selection:[29:18]Funding Methods:[35:05]Visitor Numbers:[37:13] Advice for Aspiring Farmers: [49:22] Don't miss this episode on the successes and challenges of apple cider farming with Garrett Miller, as he shares valuable insights into organic practices and building a diverse farm business! About the Guest: Garrett Miller is the owner and operator of the Good Life Farm and Finger Lakes Cider House in New York. He describes the farm and cider house as the sum total of his life’s work. He started the farm at 22 without much of a plan, with less experience than was responsible and basically no money. These initial challenges turned out to be some of their greatest strengths. With any luck, he hopes to leave this piece of land a little better than when he found it. Connect with Garrett: Website:Finger Lakes Cider HouseInstagram:Follow on InstagramFacebook:Like on Facebook The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers! Are you tired of guessing how to price your farm-fresh vegetables? Stop second-guessing and start maximizing your profits with our Vegetable Pricing Guide and Calculator. Whether you sell at farmers markets, a farm store, or anywhere else, our resources and tutorials will help you set prices based on your production costs and desired profit margins. Don’t let uncertainty dictate your pricing strategy. Join countless farmers who’ve transformed their pricing game with the Vegetable Pricing Guide. Visit us now at growingfarmers.com/veggieguide and take control of your profitability!

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:[0:57] Political Aspect:[4:45] Private Land Contracts:[9:10] Land Search:[15:47] Homestead Network:[30:05] Don't miss this episode where Lucy Brenton shares her journey into homesteading and political advocacy for food and body freedom. About the Guest: Lucy Brenton is an activist working for freedom in the areas it matters most... over our own bodies and the food we eat. Lucy ran for US Senate in 2016 and 2018, campaigning for medical and agricultural freedom, advocating for the right to grow and use hemp and cannabis products on the individual level. She moved her family from the 'burbs to the country and is transforming 6 acres into a self supporting homestead. Currently she is growing and selling edible, medicinal and culinary plants, building a community of homesteaders that want to be self-sufficient and independent of the system. Connect with Lucy Brenton: Lucy’s Website:Lucy BrentonHomestead NetworkHomestead Network LinkedIn:Follow Lucy The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor Growing Farmers! Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop. Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation. This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return. The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

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:[1:09]Farm Overview:[5:03] The “Barndominium”:[9:56] Recent Changes:[13:17] Staff Size:[22:55] Apprenticeships:[27:00] Farmer’s Market:[34:20] Don’t miss this episode on the transformative power of community engagement through farming! About the Guest: Gabe Madison is the President of Bonton Farms, a South Dallas farm and community resource dedicated to disrupting inequitable systems. With over two decades of corporate leadership experience, Gabe provides strategic oversight to the farm's expanding operations and community initiatives. Prior to this role, she served as Director of Community Relations and HR Manager at Thomson Reuters. Gabe graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing, and currently lives in Frisco with her wonderful family. Connect with Bonton Farms: Bonton FarmsFollow on InstagramLike on Facebook The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers! Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop. Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation. This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return. The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

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:[1:04]Farm Goals:[4:28]Orchard Details:[13:14]Tree Mulching:[20:44]Medicinal Plants:[25:29]Tomato Varieties:[30:20]Educational Offerings: [45:26] Advice for New Farmers:[50:39] Don't miss this episode about the journey from conventional to organic farming, where Julie Rawson shares her insights on soil fertility, carbon sequestration, and sustainable farming practices. About the Guest: Julie has been farming at Many Hands Organic Farm since 1982 with her husband, Jack, her kids, many employees, apprentices, volunteers and working shareholders over the years. Their farm is certified organic, no-till, run a CSA since 1992, and also raises chicken, turkey and pork. Connect with Julie’s Farm: Website:Many Hands Organic FarmInstagram:Follow on InstagramFacebook:Like on Facebook YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers! Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop. Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation. This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return. The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

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:[1:05]Health Challenges:[7:59]Sharing with Others:[15:21]Homestead Living:[17:45]Community Sufficiency:[21:14]Spousal Support:[32:38]Inspiring Others:[42:16] About the Guest: Melissa K. Norris helps hundreds of thousands of people each month raise their own food and create a homemade and homegrown kitchen, home, garden and barnyard through her website, popular Pioneering Today Podcast, the Pioneering Today Academy and her books. She is a co-founder of the Modern Homesteading Conference as well as owner of Norris Farmstead. Melissa is a 5th generation homesteader and lives with her husband and two kids in their own little house in the big woods in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountains. Connect with Melissa: Website:Melissa K. Norris Instagram:Follow on Instagram Facebook:Like on Facebook YouTube:Subscribe on YouTube The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers! Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop. Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation. This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return. The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

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:[1:02] Market Insights: [7:14] Influential Farmers: [15:46] Farm Visits: [20:21] Lessons Learned: [27:21] Connect with Olivia: [31:21] About the Guest: Olivia Schoentrup is a 6th generation farmer from Indiana. She and her husband, Paul, farmed together on 5 acres raising beef, pork, and chicken to sell directly to consumers. After farming for 6 years, they sold everything, moved into a 5th wheel camper, and are now traveling the country visiting small farms and homesteads to share their story on our YouTube Channel, Breaking New Roots. Connect with Breaking New Roots: Instagram: Follow on Instagram Facebook: Like on Facebook YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube Don't miss this episode on Olivia’s experiences and perspectives on modern agricultural practices and the evolving landscape of small-scale farming across the US. The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Growing Farmers! Are you ready to transform your strawberry growing skills? We want to share our 16 years of experience with growing and profiting from strawberries with you in our free 3-day Strawberry Workshop. Learn proven techniques for boosting yield and flavor, tips for managing your harvest and even developing your own U-pick operation. This workshop is perfect for farmers, homesteaders and gardeners looking to extend your strawberry growing season and make some money in return. The 3-day online workshop is offered weekly but register now as it’s only available for a few more weeks. Sign up at www.strawberrysuccess.com

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[1:36] Shakefork Farm:[8:22] Draft oxen power:[11:04] No-till:[15:04] Sales Outlets[23:17] Strawberry Success: [27:30] Tips for New Farmers: [35:47] Tool Time: [36:37] About the Guest: Melanie Cunningham farms 85 acres in the Van Duzen River floodplain in far Northern California with her husband, Kevin, 10 year old son, Clyde and a crew of committed farmhands. Shakefork Community Farm is a highly diversified CSA and market garden AND pasture based operation, growing a variety of vegetables and strawberries, pasture raised eggs, chicken and turkey, grass-fed beef and a home dairy. Melanie moved to Humboldt County in 2004 to learn to farm, and within a week landed her first farm job. Shakefork was launched in 2008 and has become an anchor of their thriving rural farming community. Connect with Shakefork Community Farm: Website:Visit Shakefork Community FarmInstagram: Follow on InstagramFacebook: Like on Facebook YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube Don't miss this episode on the innovative practices and inspiring journey of Melanie Cunningham and Shakefork Community Farm, from using draft oxen power to achieving strawberry success. The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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:[1:13]Essential elements: [6:27]It’s All in the Family: [23:26]Sustainability:[32:03] Q&A: [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 facing numerous challenges, including navigating stringent regulations and their daughter's battle with cancer, they persevered. By transitioning to focus solely on produce and refining their farming practices, they tripled their income while working fewer hours. Today, they operate a successful, near weed-free farm with year-round production, emphasizing quality and sustainability. Ray's story underscores the transformative power of resilience, innovation, and prioritizing what truly matters in life: love, family, and contentment. Connect with Rose Creek Farm: Website:Visit Rose Creek Farm Instagram:Follow on Instagram Facebook: Like on Facebook Don't miss this episode on the importance of disconnecting farm problems from family life, engaging children without forcing them to work, and still increasing farm profitability. The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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:[1:40] Challenging Beginnings:[4:11] Evolution of Wildflower Lane:[9:02] Crop Planning Challenges:[23:02] Soil Fertility Program:[24:38] Starting a Nonprofit Model Farm:[29:33] Advice for Aspiring Farmers:[35:24] Favorite Farming Tool:[38:15] About the Guest: Jim began farming at Wildflower Lane Farm in 2010 after attending an introductory farming course at the Breeze Farm in Hillsborough. After successfully farming there for a year, Jim converted 3/4 acre of pasture land at his 24 acre farm into a small organic farm. For the first 7 years, Jim grew organically-certified produce and sold it to local markets, including Whole Foods, Weaver Street Market, Eastern Carolina Organics and numerous restaurants and CSA's. At the end of year 7, Jim decided to partner with Table to feed local kids who are food insecure. Jim now volunteers 20 hours each week supervising Table volunteers and couldn’t be more fulfilled doing just what he loves, farming and providing fresh produce to locals. Connect with Wildflower Lane Farm: Website: Visit Wildflower Lane Farm Don't miss this episode on how Jim Sander's innovative approach is transforming farming and making a significant impact on local food relief efforts. The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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:[2:56] Joining Whole Foods:[6:56] On-Farm Processing: [11:24] Their Commitment:[21:01] The White Oak Team:[30:01] A Bold Return to Giving a Damn:[37:40] The Joe Rogan Experience:[39:12] Future of White Oak:[44:36] About the Guest: Will Harris is a fourth-generation cattleman, who tends the same land that his great-grandfather settled in 1866. Born and raised at White Oak Pastures, Will left home to attend the University of Georgia's School of Agriculture, where he was trained in the industrial farming methods that had taken hold after World War II. Will graduated in 1976 and returned to Bluffton where he and his father continued to raise cattle using pesticides, herbicides, hormones, and antibiotics. In 1995, Will made the audacious decision to return to the farming methods his great-grandfather had used 130 years before. Since Will has successfully implemented these changes, he has been recognized all over the world as a leader in humane animal husbandry and environmental sustainability. Connect with White Oak Pastures: Website: Visit White Oak PasturesInstagram: Follow on InstagramFacebook: Like on FacebookWill's Book: A Bold Return to Giving a Damn Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion about the amazing transformation of White Oak Pastures! The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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:[1:41]Exploring Farmhand:[5:53]Farmhand in Action:[16:17]Simplicity and Accessibility:[18:57]Custom Solutions:[21:25]Website Building:[27:22] About the Guest: Ari Memar is not just the mind behind Farmhand; he's also a hobby farmer in Sebastopol, California. There, he cultivates a variety of fruits and vegetables, applying his tech background to foster a sustainable local food ecosystem. Connect with Farmhand: Website:Visit FarmhandInstagram:Follow on InstagramFacebook:Like on Facebook Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion about blending technology with traditional farming to create a thriving agricultural business! The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farmhand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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: About the Guest: Briana is a fifth generation farmer running her own regenerative flower farm Blossom and Branch Farm near Denver, Colorado. She emphasizes cost saving practices that also consider the health of the planet and soil as top priorities. Resources: Website - www.blossomandbranchfarm.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blossomandbranchfarm YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@blossomandbranch TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/discover/blossom-and-branch-farm The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, FarmHand! When it comes to buying a truck, you don't look for parts and try to build it yourself. You want something ready to ride. So why settle for parts when it comes to your farm management? In a world filled with parts vendors, Farmhand is the only all-in-one virtual assistant built by and for independent farmers. With one single platform, Farmhand helps ensure that even small, local farms can access the same level of support and technology typically reserved for larger factory farms. The best part? Farmhand’s ready-to-ride platform comes with zero startup costs or long-term commitments. Learn more and take the quiz to see how much you can save at farmhand.partners/podcast.

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: About the Guest: Hannah is starting her 12th season with Humble Hands Harvest, a worker-owned vegetable farm growing food for the people of Decorah, Iowa. She holds a vision of a cooperative food web that regenerates rural livelihood as well as soil and ecosystems. She launched the Queer Farmer Convergence in 2018 and loves to be gathered on the land with fellow farmers and land stewards. Resources: Website - https://humblehandsharvest.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/humblehandsharvest Facebook - facebook.com/humblehandsharvest The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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: 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 to growing Ceres greenhouse Solutions as a business, he tries to combine good design with smart farming techniques to help people and businesses succeed in creating efficient growing environments. Resources: Website - www.ceresgs.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/Cerescann Greenhouse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Ceresgreenhouses Facebook - Ceres Greenhouse Solutions The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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 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 (Fran and Ted) still live in today. Bryce and Renata also live on the farm in houses that were acquired from neighbors as the farm grew, and all four work together in various roles and share ownership of Blossom Bluff Orchards. Their farming strategy involves finding niches to fill, developing a brand and a reputation for quality, and selling directly to stores, restaurants and consumers. Resources: Website - https://blossombluff.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blossomblufforchards Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/blossombluff The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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: About the Guest: Paul Muller farms with family and partners at Full Belly farm, a diversified 450 acre organic farm in North Central California's Capay Valley. For more than 40 years, Full Belly has been seeking to evolve a model farm that is economically stable, honors employees with a business design that creates year round employment, strives to grow more layers of life on a farm for environmental complexity, and seeks to connect with a community of farm supporters for a broader social impact. Resources: Website - fullbellyfarm.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/full_belly_farm/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FullBellyFarm The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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: About the Guest: Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., is the President/CEO of ECHO, a global Christian technical resourcing and networking organization based in Fort Myers, Florida. He is responsible for leading the overall global programs and operations of the organization in order to help it achieve its vision of honoring God by empowering the undernourished with sustainable hunger solutions. With more than 15 years of international experience, including five years as Director of ECHO’s Asia Regional Impact Center from 2013-2018, Bicksler most recently served as an Agricultural Officer in the agroecology team at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome, Italy. He is passionate about holistic mission and empowering people to use their gifts, skills, education and experiences to bring healing to people and the creation. Resources: Website - www.echonet.org Website - www.echocommunity.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/echofightshunger/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ECHOFightsHunger The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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 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 all small businesses so they can reach their customers organically and help their business bloom. She lives in Philadelphia with her family and, on the side, she's working on revitalizing their previously neglected garden, runs a travel photography site, and experiments with spicy recipes in the kitchen. Resources: Website - https://homegrownreach.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/homegrownreach The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips. So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.

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 the Guest: Cole Mazariegos-Anastassiou, along with Cristóbal Cruz Hernández and Verónica Mazariegos-Anastassiou, co-own Brisa Ranch which grows a diverse range of crops (nearly 40 different crops) on over 30 acres. About 95% of their sales are B2B, selling directly to a range of grocery stores, school districts, universities, hospitals, corporate kitchens, food banks, etc. Beyond being certified organic, they are certified with Real Organic Project to differentiate their soil-focused growing practices. Resources: Website - www.brisaranch.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/brisaranch Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brisaranch 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.