The Urban Farm Podcast With Greg Peterson

Balancing Technology and Nature in HomesteadingIn This Podcast: Mike Clow, a homesteader, engineer, and co-founder of Desert Life Ranch, discusses his journey from suburban life to sustainable living in the Arizona desert. He emphasizes the importance of integrating technology like solar power and aquaponics to enhance self-reliance and sustainability. Mike introduces his innovative project 'Homestead Electronics,' which uses affordable, custom-built sensors to monitor various homestead parameters, aiming to simplify and improve homestead management. Mike also touches on the challenges and continuous learning involved in homesteading and the importance of perseverance. He offers practical advice for those interested in merging technology with homesteading for more efficient and resilient living.Our Guest: Mike Clow is a homesteader, engineer and entrepreneur. He and his wife Peggy Sue are founders of the Desert Life Ranch, which they are developing into a center for sustainable and self reliant livin

Changing the way we stock our pantries.In This Podcast: David Stelzer, founder and CEO of Azure Standard, discusses the evolution of his company from selling organic grain out of his pickup truck to building a nationwide organic food distribution network. David shares his personal journey into organic farming, inspired by his parents' commitment to a healthy diet after his own health issues as a child. He describes the creation of Community Drops, a unique delivery system that spans 50 states, enabling Azure Standard to serve over 3 million families. David also talks about the importance of healthy diets, sustainable farming practices, and Azure Standard's mission to provide high-quality, affordable organic food. The podcast delves into the company's development, the challenges faced, and the impact on local food systems.Our Guest: David Stelzer is a pioneer in organic food and healthy soil practices. He is the founder and CEO of Azure Farm and Azure Standard, a leading producer and distributor of natural

Living Energy Farm's Renewable Journey Explained.In This Podcast: Debbie Piesen from Living Energy Farm discusses sustainable energy systems and microgrids. Debbie explains her journey and the challenges of living off-grid without fossil fuels. She shares the benefits and challenges of DC microgrids over AC systems and the importance of good design and decentralized energy production. Additionally, Debbie highlights various sustainable practices and projects, including solar ovens and battery storage, that are being implemented at Living Energy Farm and in the Caribbean. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of communal effort and education in transitioning to renewable energy sources.Our Guest: Debbie is one of the founders of Living Energy Farm (LEF), an organic farm and intentional community in Louisa, Virginia that is off-the-grid and uses no fossil fuels. When she is not working on the farm, Debbie teaches others about sustainable energy systems and installs DC Microgrids, an innovative solar energ

Understanding how plants get from seed to our gardens.In This Podcast: We interview Diane Blazek, the executive director of All America Selections and National Garden Bureau, about the process of plant innovation and how new plant varieties make their way into gardens. Diane explains the various stages a plant goes through—from breeding to distribution—highlighting the roles of breeders, brokers, and growers. They discuss different propagation methods, including seeds and vegetative cuttings, and the intricacies involved in each step. Diane also touches on the importance of flowering plants for pollination, how to stay informed about new varieties through the National Garden Bureau, and shares a bit of horticultural history connected to Victory Gardens. Lastly, Diane offers advice for gardeners to try new plants and visit local public gardens..Our Guest:  Diane Blazek is the executive director of All America Selections and National Garden Bureau. She has been deeply and happily immersed in gardening from a

852: Post Hurricane Helene Ag Help A Garden Chat with Alyson WadeIn This Garden Chat: In this episode Greg, interviews Alison Wade, founder of Farm Connection. Alison shares her diverse journey from earning three engineering degrees to starting her own nursery in North Carolina. They delve into the impacts of a recent hurricane on local farms and the measures taken to support the community post hurricane Helene, including a successful GoFundMe campaign that raised $230,000 to compensate farmers for lost and donated produce. They discuss future plans to bolster the local food system through potential food hubs and stream bank restoration programs. Both emphasize the importance of local food systems and community resilience in the face of disasters.Our Guest:  Allison is the founder of Farm Connection, an edible medicinal and native plant nursery and garden center near Marshall, North Carolina. She is also the homeschooling mother of four young children and earned not one, not two, but three engineering deg

851: Seed ConferencesA Seed Chat with Special Guest Julia DakinIn this episode, Greg from Urban Farm U hosts a seed chat with Julia Dakin, co-founder of the nonprofit Going to Seed. They discuss Julia's work in promoting seed sovereignty and adapting crops to local conditions. Julia shares her mission of transforming agriculture from an industrialized system to one focused on community and ecological resilience. They delve into the organization's programs, including seed diversity initiatives and supporting farmers in adapting crops to their specific environments. Julia also talks about her participation in the California Organic Seed Summit, addressing issues like land access, seed cooperatives, and engaging younger farmers. The conversation highlights the importance of genetic diversity in seeds for nutrient-dense crops and resilient food systems.Julia Dakin is the co founder of Going to Seed, an organization dedicated to promoting seed sovereignty and teaching growers how to adapt crops to local conditions

850: Winter Growing in the Desert with Jordan StejskalA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: This episode of Rosie on the House features Farmer Greg, Romey Romero and guest Jordan Stejskal discussing desert winter gardening. They include the benefits of growing plants from October to May and the variety of plants suitable for this season, such as brassicas, lettuces, and root vegetables and emphasize the importance of soil preparation using compost and fertilizers, and the considerations when sourcing manures. The team also explores bioregional herbalism, promoting the use of local plants for medicinal and culinary purposes, and the benefits of wild foraging in the desert. About our guest: Jordan Stejskal is a second generation Phoenix native and a lifelong plant lover. Jordan is a gardener, a home cook, a permaculturist, an educator, and a bioregional herbalist. She has studied plants, people, and their relationships with one another at Phoenix College, the Desert Botanical Gardens, The Sc

849: Meghan Baker on Navigating Cooperative Extension Programs.Helping farmers find success.In This Podcast horticultural professional Meghan Baker discusses the intricacies of small farm management and the vital role of Cooperative Extension agents. Meghan shares her journey from a childhood fascination with nature to her current role as a small farms extension agent. She describes the key duties of a Cooperative Extension agent, including bringing university research to the local farming community, providing technical assistance, and supporting sustainable and regenerative farming practices. Meghan highlights the role of community partners such as the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project in transforming the agricultural landscape from tobacco to diversified farming. The episode also covers the importance of soil testing, disease and pest identification resources, and the benefits of forest farming. Meghan emphasizes her passion for continuous learning and the significance of slow, attentive observati

848: Cultivating Ancient Grains for Modern HealthA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg and Bill discuss the dual benefits of growing ancient grains for both gut health and gardening. They explore the nutritional advantages of ancient grains, such as spelt, emmer, and einkorn, and their lesser known intolerance to gluten. They also address modern agricultural issues, including the presence of glyphosate and its impact on gut health. The conversation highlights practical aspects of growing grains, from seed selection to planting and harvesting, and the advantages of using heirloom grains in local economies. Listeners are encouraged to explore local grain varieties, connect with local growers, and consider the age-old method of sourdough bread making to enhance digestive health.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/847-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Exe

847: Jessie Dean on Farm to Teacup Tea.And Hurricane Helene and the her business recovery.In This Podcast: We chat with Jessie Dean from Asheville Tea Company, about her farm to teacup business approach and the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in September 2024. This episode was originally recorded in July 2024 prior to the hurricane. The storm led to the complete destruction of their building, resulting in the loss of inventory, equipment, and office space. Despite the shock, the company has been actively rebuilding with immense support from their community, local farmers, and collaborating tea businesses.Jesse discusses the transition from her career in outdoor education to starting the tea company in 2016, combining her passion for tea with sustainable business practices. She emphasizes connecting consumers with the origins of their tea, supporting local farmers, and promoting regenerative agricultural methods. Jesse also shares insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of networking,

846: Exploring Ancient Grain Traditions with Don GuerraA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: In this episode replay of 'Rosie on the House,' the Urban Farming Hour features Don Guerra, founder of Barrio Bread in Tucson, Arizona. Don is an award-winning baker who began his community-supported bakery in his garage in 2009. Greg and Romey learn from Don about the importance of using ancient and local grains in bread-making, highlighting the cultural and nutritional benefits of these practices. He explains the history and significance of grains like Sonoran white wheat and the impact of slow fermentation techniques on gluten reduction. Don's journey from anthropology to baking, his collaborations with local farmers, and his vision of sustainable, community-supported bread production. Lastly, Don offers insights into bread education and invites listeners to explore his methods through his website and online courses.Visit www.UrbanFarm.org/846-Rosie for the show notes and links on this episode!Nee

845: Keri Evji's Regenerative JourneyDesigns for Ecological ChangeIn This Podcast: Greg interviews Keri Evji, founder of Healing Roots Design LLC, a regenerative landscaping company in Asheville, North Carolina. Keri shares her journey of integrating nature's principles into her life and business, emphasizing a holistic approach to social and ecological change. She discusses her personal experiences and the inspiration behind her book, 'Regenerative Life Design Playbook,' which offers a multimedia toolkit for living a more connected and resilient life. Keri explores the concept of permaculture, its applications beyond gardening, and the importance of embracing our inner ecology for personal and cultural growth.Our Guest: Keri is the founder of Healing Roots Design LLC, a regenerative landscaping company in Asheville, North Carolina. She is a creative entrepreneur, teacher, permaculture designer, author, musician, and community revitalist, committed to the healing of people and planet. Her goal is to empower

844 - Greg & Heidi's Hurricane Helene ExperienceGreg Peterson and Heidi Lichte share their recent experiences dealing with Hurricane Helene, emphasizing the importance of community resilience and preparedness. They discuss their methods for surviving without power for seven days, such as using a rocket stove for cooking and a composting toilet, and highlight the significance of community support and resource sharing during crises. Additionally, they detail some successes and learnings from their farm, including growing elderberries, raspberries, sweet potatoes, and maintaining a resilient garden amidst climate challenges. Heidi also shares her ongoing passion for teaching online yoga classes, which she has adapted since March 2020.Our Guest: Heidi has had the joy and honor of teaching yoga for 24 years. Personally, yoga has helped her to be more conscious and present in my life and has taught her to be with the whole picture of what it means to be human: love, loss, illness, aging, vulnerability, growth a

843: Planting in the Fall Garden - A Rosie ReplayA Rosie On The House Radio Show ReplayIn This Podcast: Romey Romero, Farmer Greg and special guest Nika Forte discuss urban farming and the importance of fall gardening. Nika details her role as the Urban Farms Director at St. Vincent de Paul's Urban Farm and their efforts in combating food insecurity through sustainable practices. They also emphasize the significance of healthy soil, appropriate garden placement, and choosing crops that are both enjoyable and cost-effective, with insights into seed preservation. Additionally, Nika introduces her children's book series aimed at promoting diversity in agriculture.Special Guest: Nika Forte is a wife and mother who loves spending time with family, serving others and working in her garden.  She served two years in the AmeriCorps program under Public Allies and is currently the Urban Farms Director at St. Vincent de Paul's Urban Farm where she worked for almost nine years. Her mission in life is to advocate fo

842: Preserving food with Wendi BerginIn This Garden Chat:Join Farmer Greg and Wendi Bergin - Wendi and Greg present an insightful overview of food preservation methods, emphasizing the importance of various techniques in extending the shelf life of different food items. They explore traditional methods like canning and pickling, alongside modern practices such as vacuum sealing and freeze-drying. Wendi details the principles behind these processes and offer practical tips for successful food preservation at home. Their discussion highlights the benefits of preserving food, including reducing waste and ensuring nutritious, long-lasting meals.Our Guest: Wendy is a regular mom with a husband, a bunch of kids who she homeschools, some dogs, the founder of Joyfully Prepared, and the host of the Joyfully Prepared podcast.She is dedicated to teaching busy moms skills like gardening, food preservation, natural remedies, and more, so they can take care of themselves and their families through developing talents wit

Down on the Farm with Judith Horvath, Wendi Bergin & Farmer GregFor a chat about what we are doing on our farms.Join Farmer Greg, Wendi Bergin and Judith Horvath as we chat about the various challenges we face and techniques we use on our farms. In this episode we chat about growing tomatoes, from heirloom varieties to the more consistent cherry and grape tomatoes, and tackle climate issues, pests, and soil amendments. The conversation includes insights into permaculture practices, such as using Billy's Bone Sauce to deter deer and creating food forests with native plants. Sustainable gardening practices are explored with cassava, sweet potatoes, and mulch techniques. We further delve into food preservation, sharing methods and personal experiences with freeze-drying, dehydrating apples, and making apple cider vinegar, while addressing controversies such as 'Apeel.' This episode is filled with practical tips, cool tools like the 'Yuka' app for food labels, and creative hacks for jar sealing, culminating

841: Wendi Bergin on on Being Joyfully PreparedIn This Podcast: Wendy Bergin, founder of Joyfully Prepared, shares her expertise and journey in gardening, homesteading, and preparedness, inspired by her family's sustainable living heritage. In her podcast, she offers practical advice on food storage, emergency readiness, and the importance of gratitude. The script underscores the value of practical skills, community service, and continual learning through storytelling and personal anecdotes. Wendy also provides resources for skill-building and emphasizes the joy and growth that comes from embracing intentional living and moving past perfectionism.Our Guest: Wendy is a regular mom with a husband, a bunch of kids who she homeschools, some dogs, the founder of Joyfully Prepared, and the host of the Joyfully Prepared podcast.She is dedicated to teaching busy moms skills like gardening, food preservation, natural remedies, and more, so they can take care of themselves and their families through developing tale

841: Harvesting and StoringA Seed Chat with Bill McDormanIn this episode, Greg Peterson from Urban Farm U and Bill McDorman host a monthly seed chat focused on harvesting and storing seeds. They discuss methods of dry and wet harvesting, particularly for tomatoes and squashes, and emphasize the importance of understanding plant families in seed collection. Various methods to ensure seed viability, such as proper drying and cool storage, are explored, along with the significance of seed diversity and the role of local seed libraries. The conversation also highlights the need for more individuals to start saving seeds to adapt to changing climates and revitalize local agriculture.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/841-seed for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library!What is the Seed Chat?At least ten times a year we have a live Seed Saving Class with Bill McDorman, the former Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Seed Alliance, Ketchum, Idaho. He got his start in the bio-regional seed moveme

839: Jeremy Chevalier on Food Forest InnovationsBuilding food in our everyday landscapes.In This Podcast: The podcast features Jeremy Chevalier, a Phoenix native and serial entrepreneur, who is pioneering urban food forest initiatives with his charity, Homegrown, aiming to combat food shortages by promoting regenerative agriculture and self-sufficient communities. Jeremy discusses his journey from a conventional career to founding Homegrown, influenced by his community experiences and discoveries in soil health and permaculture. His initiatives include permaculture-based landscape services, a soil-focused real estate project, and a local food system in Phoenix that encompasses gleaning and urban farming. The conversation highlights the importance of community engagement in transforming urban landscapes into food-producing areas while addressing the logistical challenges of distributing harvested produce.Our Guest: Jérémy is a Phoenix native and serial entrepreneur with a newfound passion for heali

Greg Peterson is currently in an area of North Carolina that is without power, water, cell or internet. They are okay for now because he has the permaculture and prepping skills he has honed over the last 40 decades. We do ask that you consider donating to local groups that are assisting in the recovery and assistance. We are donating to The Cajun Navy and encourage you to check out their website.Greg Peterson - 250th Episode Special Interviewing Farmer Greg himself - about his life mission and creating The Urban Farm.In this podcast: This is the 250th episode of The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson and the tables are turned as our guest host Jake Mace gets to take control of the interview.  Greg tells us his story, how writing a mission statement for a college assignment affected him, and why naming your farm is so important to him.  And, he shares more about the origin of The Urban Farm Nursery and of Urban Farm U.   Greg has lived at the Urban Farm for almost 30 years.  His