Welcome to The Market Gardener Podcast!
Join hosts JM Fortier and Chris Moran as they engage with influential members of the global small-scale farming and or...
This week, we speak with Benjamin Fahrer, a permaculture designer and farmer, who combines ecological principles with innovative rooftop farm designs across cities in California.
Benjamin shares how his background in building and permaculture design shaped his vision for creating resilient food systems. We explore the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative practices in addressing both climate and social challenges. Benjamin highlights the value of fresh, nutrient-dense produce and the potential of urban agriculture to reconnect communities with truly healthy food.
PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!
Timestamps
[03:00] Importance of design in farming.
[04:30] Benjamin’s farming and building roots.
[07:04] Discovering permaculture design.
[10:09] Lessons from pioneers like Bob Cannard.
[12:46] Wendell Berry on perfection and humility.
[20:39] Urban farming challenges and opportunities.
[25:08] Esalen Institute: blending farming and spirituality.
[39:33] Food freshness and nutrient density.
[50:28] Key steps for regenerative ag: Reckoning, restoration, resilience.
[55:08] Tillage and soil health: timing matters.
[1:03:36] Farms as ‘refugia’ in climate change.
[1:09:18] Insights from rooftop farming projects.
[1:26:05] Designing for diversity and nature’s role.
[1:31:04] Soil microbiome and farming practices
[1:50:01] Rapid fire Q&A
[1:50:26] The Tao Of Leadership by John Heider & Tao Te Ching by Lao Tzu
Sponsors
Tessier https://info.serres-guytessier.com/en/tessier-mgi10
Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).
Bootstrap Farmer https://www.bootstrapfarmer.com/?utm_source=mg-jm&utm_medium=podcast
New Society Publishing Use code market25 for 25% off all books
https://newsociety.com/?utm_source=The%20Market%20Gardener%20Podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Sponsorship
Heirloom www.heirloom.ag Limited time offer of 20% off yearly subscription and use promocode PODCAST to get an extra month of free trial.
https://heirloom.ag/?utm_source=ijm&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=season2
Market Gardener Institute https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=masterclass#waitinglistMC
Links/Resources
Market Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com/
Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/
Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter
Blog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog
Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books
Growers & Co: https://growers.co/
Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/
The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/
Follow Us
Website: http://themarketgardener.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners
Guest Social Media Links
Benjamin:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminfahrer
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmtheroof Websites:
https://www.topleaffarms.com/
https://www.deepmedicinecircle.org/
https://regenorganic.org/
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
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2:17:31
18: Creating Community Through Farming, Food, & Nature | Alex Meizlish Ecolibrium Farms
This week, we sit down with Alex Meizlish of Ecolibrium Farm, a market gardener from Seattle with a passion for building community through food. Alex shares his journey from studying science in university to teaching environmental education in the Pacific Northwest, and finally to becoming a small-scale farmer.
We explore his experiences working with chefs, the challenges of creating a resilient organic farm, and his vision for connecting people to their food through memorable culinary experiences. The conversation touches on the importance of community, the artistry of sustainable farming, and the fulfillment of reconnecting with nature.
PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!
Timestamps
[3:00] Discussion on growing food, personal reflections on childhood food culture.
[6:05] Reflections on American food culture vs. international food cultures.
[8:22] The emotional significance of food and family gatherings.
[15:00] Journey from childhood gardening to farming.
[25:17] Transition from outdoor education to farming and environmental awareness.
[40:10] Reflections on building food culture through farming and culinary experiences.
[57:20] Conversations on the culinary arts, notable food experiences.
[1:03:15] Selling to chefs, discussing farm and restaurant collaborations.
[1:30:00] Community, connection, and the impact of farming gatherings.
[1:36:53] Rapid fire Q&A
Sponsors
Tessier https://info.serres-guytessier.com/en/tessier-mgi10
Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).
Bootstrap Farmer https://www.bootstrapfarmer.com/?utm_source=mg-jm&utm_medium=podcast
Market Gardener Institute www.themarketgardener.com/introduction Limited time offer of $99 USD on our online course Introduction To Organic Farming.
Links/Resources
Market Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com/
Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/
Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter
Blog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog
Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books
Growers & Co: https://growers.co/
Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/
The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/
Follow Us
Website: http://themarketgardener.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners
Guest Social Media Links
Alex Meizlish:
Website: https://www.ecolibriumfarms.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecolibriumfarms/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ecolibriumfarms/
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
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1:59:36
17: Leaving The City To Find Health & Happiness In Organic Farming | Palisa Anderson
This week we chat with Palisa Anderson, organic farmer, author, and owner of Chat Thai restaurant in Australia. She shares her journey from city life to sustainable farming, driven by family influence and health benefits, and we discuss the challenges of running a closed-loop farm, rewilding efforts, and supplying organic produce to restaurants. The conversation highlights the fulfillment found in homesteading, cooking with fresh ingredients, and reconnecting with nature through sustainable agriculture.
Please make sure to SUBSCRIBE to the podcast, DOWNLOAD our episodes, and RATE them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!
Timestamps
[1:27] Guest background and early inspirations
[2:18] Becoming a farmer and family background
[4:00] Transition from city life to farm life
[10:06] Influence of health on lifestyle choices
[17:00] The importance of food sourcing and whole foods
[26:36] Environmental impact and rewilding efforts
[34:05] Connection to land and traditional farming methods
[44:08] The restaurant business and starting a farm
[51:16] Transition to organic farming
[1:08:26] Farm description and its unique ecosystem
[1:18:08] Seasonal produce and crop cycles
[1:34:10] Connecting with chefs and restaurant partnerships
[1:45:04] Advocacy for agrarian food and homesteading
[1:53:17] Advice on selling to restaurants
[1:58:56] Rapid-fire questions on books, advice, and culinary memories
Sponsors
Tessier https://info.serres-guytessier.com/en/tessier-mgi10
Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).
Advancing Eco Ag http://advancingecoag.com/marketgarden
New Society Publishing Use code market25 for 25% off all books
https://newsociety.com/?utm_source=The%20Market%20Gardener%20Podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Sponsorship
Market Gardener Institute www.themarketgardener.com/introduction Limited time offer of $99 USD on our online course Introduction To Organic Farming.
Links/Resources
Market Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com/
Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/
Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter
Blog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog
Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books
Growers & Co: https://growers.co/
Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/
The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/
Follow Us
Website: http://themarketgardener.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners
Guest Social Media Links
Palisa Anderson:
Instagram:
www.instagram.com/palisaanderson
www.instagram.com/boonluckfarmorganics
www.instagram.com/chatthai_official
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
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2:09:10
16: Starting A Profitable Small Farm From Scratch | Luke Sheldrick - Terramor Farm
This week we chat with Luke Sheldrick from Terramor Farm about his journey in building a thriving market garden. We tackle the challenges of parenting while starting a farm, explore the crucial role of professionalism and strategic planning in running a successful farm business, and uncover how Luke supplies over 20 restaurants with his fresh produce. We also dive into Luke’s new online course, The Crop Plan Accelerator, which will teach you how to master the essential skill of crop planning for a profitable farming venture.
Succession Crop Planning Cheat Sheet! https://themarketgardener.ac-page.com/succession-crop-planning-lead-magnet-en
Online Course - The Crop Plan Accelerator
https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-crop-plan-accelerator/
PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!
Timestamps
[2:23] Starting the farm journey
[5:07] Farm setup and expansion
[11:05] Canadian Agricultural Loans Act
[17:17] Farm growth and scaling
[21:03] Crop selection strategy
[34:10] Importance of professionalism on the farm
[36:20] Delegation and team management
[40:20] Hiring and building a strong team
[46:21] SOPs and crop planning
[52:07] Working with Heirloom crop planning app
[1:14:06] Selling to restaurants
[1:28:00] Future of small-scale farming
[1:34:46] Rapid-fire Q&A
Sponsors
Tessier https://info.serres-guytessier.com/en/tessier-mgi10
Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).
Market Gardener Institute www.themarketgardener.com/introduction Limited time offer of $99 USD on our online course Introduction To Organic Farming.
Links/Resources
Market Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com/
Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/
Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter
Blog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog
Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books
Growers & Co: https://growers.co/
Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/
The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/
Follow Us
Website: http://themarketgardener.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners
Guest Social Media Links
Luke Sheldrick:
Website: https://terramorfarm.com/
IG: instagram.com/terramorfarm
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
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1:54:26
15: Pioneer Of The CSA Movement In North America | Scott Chaskey author of Soil and Spirit
This week we speak with Scott Chaskey, a farmer, poet, author, and pioneer of the CSA movement. His latest book, Soil and Spirit, explores our connection and kinship with nature through farming and storytelling. In this wide ranging conversation we explore the history of community supported agriculture (CSA) in North America, the spread of CSA’s around the world, land trusts and the concepts of “ownership” and “the commons”, and the many ways in which we are deeply connected with all living things.
Soil And Spirit by Scott Chaskey http://milkweed.org/book/soil-and-spirit
PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!
Timestamps
[3:21] Shi-Yan and CSA movement in China
[10:38] Origins of CSA in the US \ Quail Hill Farm
[13:13] Land Trust and CSA relationship
[18:45] NOT owning the farm \ concept of “the commons” in Europe
[27:40] Learning to garden in England
[36:26] The Quail Hill Farm CSA, one of the first in the US
[54:15] Scott’s book Soil And Spirit \ Kinship with nature
[1:04:48] Hand tools \ BCS history \ Tractors
[1:15:09] Current state of the CSA movement
[1:26:39] The word “peasant”
[1:33:39] Rivers and mountains poetry tradition / Gary Snyder poet
[1:37:13] The Tree by John Fowles
[1:39:10] Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard \ The Overstory by Richard Powers
[1:46:54] Navajo word Hózhǫ́
[1:49:05] Community questions
[1:53:32] In Paradise by Peter Matthiessen
Sponsors
Tessier https://info.serres-guytessier.com/en/tessier-mgi10
Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire).
New Society Publishing Use code market25 for 25% off all books
https://newsociety.com/?utm_source=The%20Market%20Gardener%20Podcast&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=Sponsorship
Market Gardener Institute www.themarketgardener.com/introduction Limited time offer of $99 USD on our online course Introduction To Organic Farming.
Links/Resources
Market Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com/
Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/
Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter
Blog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog
Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books
Growers & Co: https://growers.co/
Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/
The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/
Follow Us
Website: http://themarketgardener.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners
Guest Social Media Links
Scott Chaskey:
Website: https://www.scottchaskey.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/scottchaskey
JM:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
Welcome to The Market Gardener Podcast!
Join hosts JM Fortier and Chris Moran as they engage with influential members of the global small-scale farming and organic regenerative agriculture community.
Our podcast is your gateway to insightful conversations about farming, food, small businesses, and thought leadership in the world of sustainable agriculture.
We're here to shine a positive light on the practices and principles that drive small-scale farming, agroecology, and community building. Tune in for high-level discussions that inspire and empower a new era of positive farming.
Portugal