Recorded live from the Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference, the Soil Sisters talk to Michael Bell from Dallas Half Acre Farm who shares his journey of starting an urban farm without electricity and water. The second part of the episode features Howard Vlieger, a regenerative farmer and researcher discussing his studies on the effects of GMOs and glyphosate on health. Howard introduces Firehawk Bioherbicide, an innovative organic herbicide designed to support the soil microbiome.

Recorded live from the Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference, this Soil Sisters are talking dirt therapy with Kris Vandenberg, US Army veteran and founder of Vetted Farms and Kitchens. Kris shares his evolution from professional chef to farmer, catalyzed by the pandemic and personal health changes. The discussion centers around his mission to engage veterans in regenerative farming, the benefits of community outreach, receiving support, and the challenges and rewards of making transitions and doing hard things. Kris also highlights grant support from Kiss the Ground and his aspirations for Vetted Farms' upcoming projects.

Meet our friend Chris Jones, an R&D project manager and designer at Symbiosis in central Texas. Chris shares his compelling journey from a career in finance to regenerative land management, inspired by his mental health struggles. He explains how changing how and what he ate and connecting with nature guided his path to health, clarity, and ecology. The discussion dives into his transition, the importance of healthy local food, and his work on developing universal soil amendments at scale to restore degraded lands. Chris also recounts his recent survival training experience, underscoring the essential roles of food and community. This impactful conversation leans into holistic well-being, community efforts, and restorative agricultural practices.

The Soil Sisters discuss the foundational basics of structured water with expert guest Clayton Nolte-- an inventor, researcher, and structured water expert. Clayton explains how structured water can significantly enhance hydration, detoxification, and nutrient absorption at the cellular level. This podcast covers the science behind structured water, its health benefits, and its impact on agriculture, including reduced plant water consumption and soil rejuvenation.

The Soil Sisters talk with Tara Dukart of Seek First Ranch about the challenges and benefits of succession planning in family farms, the importance of asking insightful questions, and building a supportive community for regenerative practices. Tara emphasizes the significance of having a facilitator for family discussions and introduces resources such as Regenerate Schools and Retreats, and Win Warriors for ongoing support in regenerative agriculture.

The Soil Sisters talk with Dr. Liz Haney, a soil and ecosystem scientist. They explore the Haney Soil Health Test, off-ramping from conventional to regenerative agriculture, soil testing methods, and the empowering benefits of regenerative practices to farmers and consumers. Dr. Haney also discusses collaborative efforts in agriculture and initiatives like Regen Mills and Farmers Reserve Distillery to support farmers.

Meet Troy Swift, a first-generation farmer operating Swift River Pecans since 1998 and the current president of the Texas Pecan Growers Association. Troy discusses the use of beneficial insects, birds and bats, and innovative methods to enhance tree and soil health. Troy shares his exploration of soil life, cover crops, plant nutrition, soil performance, and diversified business operations. This Soil Sisters' chat with Troy is rich with practical insights, making it a must-listen no matter what you're farming.

What if shifting your perspective could revolutionize your farming and ranching practices? 🚀Join us on this week's Soil Sisters podcast as we chat with rancher and holistic management expert, and executive director of Holistic Management International, Wayne Knight, who shares insights on living your values, improving land health, and planning for profit through holistic goal setting.