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Farm Small Farm Smart

582 episodes — Page 4 of 12

Productivity Differences Between Balanced and Unbalanced Soil - Gardening Beyond Basics E09

Join soil scientist Bruce Davison of Soilsmith Ag as he discusses what it means to have balanced soils. He talks about how soils lose their balance and the consequences that come with unbalanced soils, as well as the fairly simple ways of bringing the soil back into balance to keep it performing in tip-top shape. Click here to learn more about Bruce Davison and Soilsmith! Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights! Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower: Instagram Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Carrot Cashflow Farm Small Farm Smart Farm Small Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast The Urban Farmer Podcast The Rookie Farmer Podcast In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books: Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Feb 23, 202515 min

The Sumi Soaker: A Game-Changer for Small-Scale Vegetable Growers - The Profitable Mini-Farm E30

In this episode, farmer Jodi and Diego talk about choosing the right irrigation system for your farm. They talk about the pros and cons as well as the nuances of each type, and they take a closer look at a specific irrigation system, the Sumi Soaker, and why farmer Jodi has used this system for the better part of the decade. Sumi Soaker Max Irrigation System: https://shop.moderngrower.co/products/sumi-soaker-max-irrigation-system Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights! Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower: Instagram Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Carrot Cashflow Farm Small Farm Smart Farm Small Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast The Urban Farmer Podcast The Rookie Farmer Podcast In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books: Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by

Feb 17, 202543 min

Avoid Overwhelm as a First-Time Seed Saver - Gardening Beyond Basics E08

Seed farmer Dan Brisebois of Tourne-Sol Co-Operative Farm shares some advice for beginners looking to save their first seeds: keep things simple to avoid overwhelm and burning out early!🌱 Check out Dan's new book: The Seed Farmer: A Complete Guide to Growing, Using, and Selling Your Own Seeds Click here to learn more about Dan Brisebois and his work. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights! Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower: Instagram Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Carrot Cashflow Farm Small Farm Smart Farm Small Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast The Urban Farmer Podcast The Rookie Farmer Podcast In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books: Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Feb 16, 202512 min

Breaking Down Bitterness: Why Some Cucumbers are Bitter - Gardening Beyond Basics E07

Cucumbers we get from grocery stores sometimes turn out to be bitter, and the bitterness can make it hard to eat. Why is that? Did it turn bitter because of how it was stored? Did it turn bitter because of how it was pollinated? Or was the variety already bitter to begin with? Farmer Jay Tracy of The Cucumber Shop breaks down bitterness in cucumbers and dispels myths about why cucumbers turn out bitter. Farmer Jay also shares some tips on how to grow bitter-free cucumbers. Learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop here. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Feb 9, 202512 min

The Urban Farmer 10th Year Anniversary Preview Special

In honor of its 10th anniversary, we are releasing The Urban Farmer, as it originally aired in 2015. Subscribe to The Urban Farmer Podcast to follow Curtis Stone's journey as he transforms urban plots into profitable market gardens, grossing $85,000 on just a third of an acre. This documentary series takes you behind the scenes of a successful urban farming operation in Kelowna, BC, revealing the essential systems and strategies that make small-scale farming viable. Learn how Curtis manages multiple plots, maintains restaurant relationships, and maximizes productivity in limited space. Whether you're planning your first market garden or looking to scale up your existing farm, this series delivers practical insights on crop selection, time management, and maintaining work-life balance in urban agriculture. Curtis shares real numbers, honest challenges, and proven solutions for making a living as an urban farmer.

Feb 5, 202519 min

The #1 Mistake New Market Gardeners Make (And How to Avoid It) - The Profitable Mini-Farm E29

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego talk about the most common mistakes that new farmers make and how to avoid them to increase your chances of success in running a profitable and sustainable farm business. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Feb 3, 202556 min

The Dire Consequences of Over-Applying Compost - Gardening Beyond Basics E06

Many farmers' go-to solution to underperforming crops is to add more compost, but unfortunately, piling on inches upon inches of compost might actually do more harm than good. Soil Consultant Bruce Davison of Soilsmith talks about the dire consequences of applying copious amounts of compost into production beds. Click here to learn more about Bruce Davison and Soilsmith! Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Feb 2, 202510 min

3 Easy Crops to Start Seed-Saving - Gardening Beyond Basics E05

Seed farmer and author Dan Brisebois of Tourne-Sol Co-Operative Farm shares his expertise on seed-saving by ranking the top 3 easiest market garden crops to start saving seed from, how to process the seeds to use the next year, and how to tell when the seeds are ready to be harvested and processed. 🌱 Check out Dan's new book: The Seed Farmer: A Complete Guide to Growing, Using, and Selling Your Own Seeds Click here to learn more about Dan Brisebois and his work. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Jan 26, 202510 min

Rookie to Pro: Secrets of Small-Scale Farming Success - NEW SHOW: THE ROOKIE FARMER PODCAST

Welcome to The Rookie Farmer Podcast, a brand new series on the Modern Grower Podcast Network hosted by Rookie Farmer Alec Smith! Farmer Alec kicks off the show with guest farmer Zach Richards of Levity Farms in Blairsville, Georgia. They pack a lot in this episode, from biodynamic farming for new farmers, getting started with selling produce to chefs and restaurants, unique ways to go about veggie boxes, as well lessons farmer Zach learned from moving Levity Farms thrice in eight years. Check out farmer Zach and Levity Farms: https://www.instagram.com/levityfarmsga/ Check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm: https://www.instagram.com/cropculturefarm/

Jan 24, 202512 min

6 Essential Strategies for a Financially Viable Market Garden - The Profitable Mini-Farm E28

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego discuss strategies for building a sustainable farm business. They talk about the different and occasionally difficult decisions involved in making sure a farm is financially viable such as controlling costs, scaling mindfully, and differentiating your farm's products, among other things. Hopefully, these strategies can help every farm's game plan this coming 2025 season. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Jan 20, 20251h 18m

Contract Growing Cucumbers for Seeds - Gardening Beyond Basics E04

We're smack in the middle of winter, and most farmers are drafting their game plan come spring, thinking about what to grow and maybe considering new additions to their farming operation. Farmer Jay Tracy of The Cucumber Shop talks about one potential add-on project for market gardeners: contract growing crops for seed companies. Learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop here. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Jan 19, 202521 min

Adding Farm Profits with You-Pick Blackberries (CC50)

Dustin LaBat of Specklebelly Farms in Weimar, Texas shares their you-pick farming model that includes not only vegetables but also cut flowers and blackberries, which is the biggest draw. He talks about the labor, economics, and marketing strategies that go into running their farm, as well as how blackberries can be an incredibly profitable crop for market farmers. Lastly, he touches on plant sales, farm stand sales, and restaurant sales as complementary income that allows their farm to run all year round. Check out Specklebelly Farms here! Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jan 8, 20251h 7m

Adapting Your Farm Business to Market Changes - The Profitable Mini-Farm E27

In this episode, farmer Jodi Roebuck talks about navigating running a farm business during an economic downturn while making strategic investments on the farm. He also drills down the importance of having a financial buffer to cushion expenses during tough times. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Jan 7, 202556 min

How to Grow the Best Cucumbers - Gardening Beyond Basics E03

So you want to grow your own cucumbers...but where do you even start? Farmer Jay Tracy of The Cucumber Shop walks us through the whole process of growing the best cucumbers, from choosing which cucumbers to grow, to how to start them, to the kind of soil to grow them in, to how to maintain your cucumber plants to keep them pumping out fruit for weeks and weeks! Learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop here. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Jan 6, 202533 min

Common Cucumbers & Specialty Cucumbers - Gardening Beyond Basics E02

Jay Tracy of CucumberShop.com talks about common—and not-so-common—varieties of cucumbers based on their uses. Learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop here. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Dec 30, 20246 min

Cucumber Terminologies & Common Misconceptions - Gardening Beyond Basics E01

In this new series, we invite experts in the field of agriculture—plant breeders, soil specialists, seed specialists, flower experts, you name it!—and take a deep dive into specific topics related to their area of expertise. Starting off the first episode, we have Jay Tracy of CucumberShop.com to shed light on cucumber terminologies and de-mystify common misconceptions about growing cucumbers. Learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop here. Interested in watching the series? Hop on over to our YouTube Channel! Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil

Dec 23, 202415 min

Growing Pains and Gains: An Honest Look at the Realities of Running a Farm Business - The Profitable Mini-Farm E26

In this episode, farmer Jodi Roebuck takes us through his very circuitous journey into farming. He shares how farming has been like for him as he navigated through economic downturns, the importance of adaptability in the face of challenges, and the importance of hard work, persistence, and focusing on the positives in the face of adversity. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Dec 23, 20241h 0m

From Dream to Reality: Navigating the Challenges of Starting a Profitable Farm Business - Farm Startup - Episode 36

In this raw and honest episode, rookie farmer Alec Smith shares the invaluable lessons he learned during his first year running Crop Culture Farm. Aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs will gain insights into the challenges, triumphs, and surprising realities of starting a profitable farm business from scratch. Alec dives deep into the financial realities of farming, discussing the importance of setting realistic revenue goals, navigating cash flow challenges, and adapting to market conditions. He emphasizes the crucial role that family support and personal resilience play in overcoming obstacles and maintaining motivation. From crop planning missteps to unexpected marketing wins, Alec reveals the day-to-day struggles and breakthroughs that shaped his journey. He offers practical advice on leveraging community connections, diversifying revenue streams, and continually refining systems to optimize production and profitability. This episode serves as a must-listen for anyone considering turning their farming dream into a full-time career. Alec's transparency and hard-earned wisdom will inspire and equip you with the mindset and strategies needed to cultivate a thriving agricultural enterprise. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil #farmstartup #farmingbusiness #marketfarming #newfarmer #agentrepreneur #farmbusiness #youngfarmer #localfood #sustainableagriculture #farmtotable #organicfarming #soilhealth #regenerativeagriculture #communitysupportedagriculture #knowyourfarmer #familyfarming #farmbusinessplanning #financialplanning #resiliencefarming

Dec 20, 20241h 11m

From Breaking Ground to Breaking Even: A Candid Look at Year One on the Farm - Farm Startup - Episode 35

In this episode, host Diego talks to farmer Alec as he reflects on his first year running Crop Culture Farm, with emphasis on dedicating ample time for farm buildout and infrastructure before diving into full-scale production. They also talk about the value of experimentation, staying true to oneself, and not taking things too seriously when entrepreneurial challenges arise—running a business is hard enough, so give yourself some room to laugh and be flexible so you can get back up again. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Gro

Dec 13, 20241h 24m

Cucumbers and Cashflow: Optimizing High Tunnel Production for Profit - The Profitable Mini-Farm E25

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego talk about greenhouse efficiency. Farmer Jodi shares his transition from growing in the field to growing in a greenhouse, the benefits of growing in a greenhouse, how he maximizes space, the thought process behind choosing which crops to grow, and irrigation and trellising, to name a few. Hopefully, these tips and tricks help as many farmers gear up for spring! Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Dec 9, 202437 min

The Dark Side of Hustle Culture: Burnout, Depression and Overwhelm as an Entrepreneur - Farm Startup - Episode 34

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec talk about the mental struggles, challenges, and hardships of running a business. While making a living from a business can be both fulfilling and exhilarating, it can also get all-consuming and mentally exhausting, especially when financial uncertainty comes into play. Diego and Alec also talk about some practical strategies for handling anxiety and maintaining well-being, as well as the importance of having a support system in keeping mental calm. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Dec 6, 20241h 24m

The Frugal Farmer's Journey: Cultivating Profits Through Prudent Spending (CC49)

Tony Barlow of Barlow Roots Market returns to the show to look back on their 10-year market gardening journey. He shares the practical financial mindset with which he ran Barlow Roots, as well as how they manage their finances both inside and outside the business. Sign up to Tony's newsletter here! Click here to learn more about Barlow Roots Market! Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Dec 4, 20241h 35m

The First Year Running a Farm Business: A Farmer's Perspective - Farm Startup - Episode 33

In this episode, host Diego talks to farmer Alec about his reflections on the first year of his journey in entrepreneurship as a new farmer. He shares the challenges and successes he faced while balancing production, sales, and his personal life. He also talks about the key things he's discovered that makes a farm business sustainable: collaboration, adaptability, and steady progress. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Nov 22, 202453 min

Adapting to Change: Farming in an Economic Downturn - The Profitable Mini-Farm E24

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego talk about running a farm business during a national economic downturn while navigating the impact and aftereffects of a cyclone on his farm. Jodi shares the strategies he employed to adapt to the changing market including choosing to grow high-value crops, cutting back on production, and exploring new opportunities. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Nov 18, 202441 min

Growing Pain - Pricing, Crops, and Sales: Lessons from a First Year Farmer - Farm Startup - Episode 32

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec welcome guest farmer Jim Marsh of Mile View Acres in Oklahoma to talk about how his first full year of farming is going. Alec and Jim, two first-year farmers talk shop and share insights and challenges as they face the reality of running a market farm in their first year. Learn more about Mile View Acres here. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Nov 15, 20241h 14m

Adapting to Thrive: A Farmer's Recession Playbook - The Profitable Mini-Farm E23

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego talk about going through a difficult year as a farmer as an economic recession hits New Zealand. Farmer Jodi shares how he adapted through financial prudence and innovation, and how their greenhouse helped getting through tough times. It's easy to run a farm business when the wind is in your sails, but how do you manage when conditions are less-than-perfect? Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Nov 4, 202456 min

The 7 Biggest Challenges Facing Market Farmers - Farm Startup - Episode 31

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec list out the 7 biggest challenges that all farmers face: they hit hard at the start of any farm business and pop up throughout the rest of any farmer's career. Find out what they are in this episode of Farm Startup with Farmer Alec Smith! Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Nov 1, 202444 min

Carrot Cashflow: Cucumbers, From Hobby to Business: The Journey of a Niche Seed Seller (CC48)

Jay Tracy of CucumberShop.com shares his interesting journey of starting a hobby, which later turned into a business of breeding and selecting the best of over 70 different varieties of cucumbers and selling cucumber seeds online. Click here to learn more about Jay Tracy and Cucumber Shop! Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 30, 20241h 10m

Weathering the Storm: A Farmer's Tale of Resilience - The Profitable Mini-Farm E22

In this episode, farmer Jodi and host Diego dive into the realities of farming—particularly, the resilience required to run a farm in the face of extreme weather conditions. Farmer Jodi shares their experience with cyclone Gabrielle and how mindset, support from the community, and innovative farming techniques allowed them to bounce back from severe natural disasters. Learn more about farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 21, 202442 min

The Long Road to Success: A Farmer to Farmer Conversation - Farm Startup - Alec Smith - Episode 30

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec welcome a special guest from across the sea, Rob Moores of Passion4Plants in West Yorkshire, England. An experienced farmer and entrepreneur, Rob shares a farmer-to-farmer conversation with Alec about the work that it takes to build a sustainable business for long-term success in agriculture. He shares what life looks like in the beginning and what life can look like after putting in the work. Click here to learn more about farmer Rob and Passion4Plants. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 18, 20241h 36m

The Challenges of Farmer's Markets and Expanding Farm Business - Farm Startup - Episode 29

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec take a close look at farmer Alec's current farmer's market: is it a good market worth staying at? Is it a good enough market to stay in but the farm will need additional revenue streams to tack onto? Or is it a bad market that needs to be moved on from? Farmer Alec also thinks about whether or not staying part-time is a prudent choice, as well as delving into potential expansion with production and possibly including restaurant sales. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 11, 202449 min

Cover Crop Mastery- Secrets of a Successful Farm - The Profitable Mini-Farm E21

This new season of The Profitable Mini-Farm kicks off with farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck joining host Diego to talk about the challenges and techniques of managing excess water on the farm. They also dive deep into cover cropping: what do you do to your production beds when the farm slows down? Farmer Jodi shares his cover cropping strategies: which crops he uses, seeding rates, termination techniques, and Jang tips to accomplish everything. Learn more about Jodi: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ @roebuckfarm Kwik Hoops are eligible for NRCS low-tunnel grants. Protect your valuable crop from rain, wind, cold, and insects using Kwik Hoops and InsectaNet. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 7, 202457 min

Summer Farming Challenges & Solutions - Farm Startup - Episode 28

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec talk about farming in the peak season: summer. They dive into the challenges that come with being a solo farmer surviving the summer season by balancing production, ensuring having enough crops to sell, expanding the product variety, and potentially tapping into additional market streams to include restaurants. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Oct 4, 202456 min

The Tools That Make or Break a Market Farm: Starting a Farm on a Shoestring Budget - Farm Startup - Episode 27

In this episode, Diego and Alec talk all about tools. If you plan on starting a farm, you're probably thinking about a mountain of tools you think you need to get started, but waiting to buy every single one might be setting you back a while. Farmer Alec shares the few tools he used to get his farm up and running on a shoestring budget. Lastly, Diego and Alec touch a bit on fertility and how getting your soil fertility down can help boost production. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Sep 27, 20241h 0m

Market Gardening Myths Debunked: What It Really Takes - Farm Startup - Episode 26

In this episode, farmer Alec and host Diego are joined by a special guest: veteran market gardener Cassie Pierce of Peace of Prairie Organic Farm in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Cassie shares some of her insights on Alec's farming journey and her thoughts on some of the misconceptions she hears being passed on to younger farmers. She then unpacks the disconnect between her experience as a market gardener and the pseudo-myths she hears about small-scale farming such as the need for a high-end market, and that only growing a few select crops is the key to profitability. Click here to check out farmer Alec and Crop Culture Farm. Click here to learn more about farmer Cassie and Peace of Prairie Organic Farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99

Sep 20, 20241h 32m

The Growing Microgreens Podcast: The Power of Microgreens: Growing Big Profits Year-Round

Farmer and educator Jodi Roebuck of Roebuck Farms in Taranaki, New Zealand jumps on the show to discuss how they grow microgreens as part of their market garden operation. Farmer Jodi shares some interesting ways they leverage microgreens as a way to expand their product offerings, such as enhancing existing salad mixes and picking up the slack by filling in production gaps when field crops are having issues. Learn more about Farmer Jodi and Roebuck Farm on Instagram and their website. Get time and labor-saving farm tools and microgreen seeds at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Carrot Cashflow Podcast In Search of Soil Check out Diego's book Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF Chris's online course Growing Your Profitable Microgreens Business https://microgreens.teachable.com/courses

Sep 16, 202456 min

In Search of Soil #21 - Dr. Elizabeth Koziol - Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi

Watch and listen to more on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@InSearchofSoil Exploring the Fascinating World of Fungi with Dr. Elizabeth Koziol: From Dumb Luck to Mycorrhizal Wisdom Elizabeth is a mycologist whose accidental journey into the world of fungi turned into a lifelong passion. She shares her experiences from her career working with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, debunking common misconceptions and explaining the intricate relationships between fungi and plants. Learn about the surprising mechanisms of fungal-plant communication, the role of fungi in agriculture, and the potential of microbial inoculants like MycoBloom. Whether you're a gardener or a researcher, this talk offers valuable insights into the unseen world beneath our feet. Dr. Kozoil's research: https://scholar.google.com/citations?... Dr. Kozoil's company MycoBloom: https://www.mycobloom.com/ Subscribe and Listen to the audio version of In Search of Soil: iTunes - http://bit.ly/soilpodcast Spotify - http://bit.ly/insearchofsoil Enjoy the show? Drop me a line @diegofooter - / diegofooter

Sep 13, 20241h 18m

Farm or Fail: The Pressure of Making It Work Right Now - Farm Startup - Episode 25

In this episode, farmer Alec and host Diego talk about the finances behind two ways of starting a farm: when the farm starts out as a side hustle, and when the farm starts out as the main hustle. Farmer Alec talks about where he falls on that spectrum, as well as the challenges around navigating the financial landscape of running a first-year farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Sep 6, 202454 min

The Growing Microgreens Podcast: Fresh Profits: How Two Friends Grew a Microgreen Empire

Blake Cowling and Austin Collins on Scintilla Farms in San Diego, California share their microgreens journey starting on a very small scale and expanding to growing in a warehouse to service over 30 restaurant customers. They also share why they chose to sell to restaurants, how they built their solid customer base, and their strategy for curating their crop offerings based on their customers' needs. Lastly, they also talk about their future plans to expand their microgreens business to include mushrooms. Get time and labor-saving farm tools and microgreen seeds at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF Chris's online course Growing Your Profitable Microgreens Business https://microgreens.teachable.com/courses

Sep 2, 20241h 2m

Summer Struggles and Successes: A Farmer's Journey in the Heat - Farm Startup - Episode 24

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec talk about the challenges that come with growing vegetables in the heat of summer—scheduling crop succession, dealing with the difficulties of maintaining greens, and adapting to the market's changing demands. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Aug 23, 202458 min

The Growing Microgreens Podcast: Microgreens and Montana Dreams: Joe Sessions on Building a Local Brand

Joe Naiman-Sessions of N Bar S Microgreens in Helena, Montana shares his microgreen growing journey, from reaching out to other microgreen growers in the area and selling to grocery stores, to broadening their product offering to include edible flowers, to their success in selling live cut microgreens at farmer's markets. Joe also shares his edible flower cultivation methods, his plans to expand to market gardening, as well as how he effectively keeps on top of bookkeeping and cashflow management. Get time and labor-saving farm tools and microgreen seeds at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF Chris's online course Growing Your Profitable Microgreens Business https://microgreens.teachable.com/courses

Aug 19, 20241h 11m

Adapting to an Underwhelming Market - Farm Startup - Episode 23

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec talk about Alec's experience selling at their local farmer's market 10 weekends in. They also break down the potential reasons for the underwhelming sales in their market, as well as Alec's strategies to adapt and reach their sales goals. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Aug 16, 202449 min

Farming Together as a Couple: Building Dreams and Balancing Realities - Farm Startup - Episode 22

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec welcome a special guest, Alec's wife, Sarah, to talk about what it's like to be part of a family that's starting a farm business. She shares her experience balancing family life and supporting the farming venture while running her own business, as well as the challenges and expectations of running a new farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Aug 9, 202459 min

The Growing Microgreens Podcast Returns: Adapting and Expanding - Six Years of Lessons from a Microgreen Farmer

Catch returning guest microgreens grower Vincent Cuneo of Agrarian Feast to share how his business has fared since it began in 2018. Vincent details his strategy of partnering with grocers and supermarkets, which helped cushion the impact of the restaurant industry's downturn. He talks about diversifying into specialty mushrooms and underscores the importance of producing high-quality products. Key topics include inventory management, product pricing strategies, effective marketing, and maintaining strong packaging. The episode also offers practical advice for starting a microgreens business, emphasizing consistent practice, business knowledge, and market research, with a suggestion to initially test market demand on a small scale. Get time and labor-saving farm tools and microgreen seeds at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Aug 6, 20241h 22m

Market Shutdowns and Money Woes: Navigating the Unpredictable - Farm Startup - Episode 21

In this episode, farmer Alec and host Diego talk about running a farm business when something unexpected happens—maybe you get crazy weather events, maybe you get crop failure, or maybe your farmer's market shuts down on short notice. What do you do to minimize the losses in the business? Farmer Alec shares his experience pivoting from his farmer's market after they announced a cancelled weekend in less than 48 hours. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Aug 2, 202448 min

Farm Life Under Pressure: Lessons from Year One in Georgia's Heat - Farm Startup - Episode 20

In this episode, host Diego and Farmer Alec talk about farming in transitioning seasons. Farmer Alec talks about the difference between growing his usual crops in the spring versus in the summer and the challenges that go along the changing seasons. They also touch on hypotheticals around farm expansion and using tools to improve efficiency on the farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jul 26, 202455 min

Breaking Even: The Struggle for Sustainable Sales - Farm Startup - Episode 19

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec take a look at how his first month at the farmer's market went after it kicked off well at opening week. Farmer Alec talks about how the following weeks went, his thoughts on the fluctuating sales, and what he plans to do next should he ever need to bolster sales for the farm. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jul 19, 202443 min

Balancing Dreams and Bills: Juggling Jobs and Building a Farm Business - Farm Startup - Episode 18

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec dive into Alec's journey of pulling back from his full-time job at Crystal Organic Farm and transitioning into part-time work to make more time to focus on his own business. They take a look at what going part-time has allowed him to do and what he plans to do with the extra time, and they even talk about Alec bringing on additional help. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jul 12, 202456 min

Carrot Cashflow: Building a Business Around Really Fancy Salad with Jacki Hinchey (CC44)

Jackie Hinchey, who has a background in agriculture, transitioned from a mom with a simple veggie garden to establishing Blue Dog Farm, known for its premium 'really fancy salad.' Initially started as a hobby, her farm grew into a successful business. Jackie discusses growing diverse crops on a small scale, ensuring high product quality, managing the business efficiently, and adapting to challenges, including climatic conditions. They delve into pricing strategies, market targeting, and maintaining ethical and high-quality food production. The conversation concludes with reflections on life choices, the impacts of the podcast on Jackie's journey, and advice for both young and older aspiring farmers. Blue Dog Farm: https://www.instagram.com/blue_dog_farm Get time and labor-saving farm tools and microgreen seeds at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jul 3, 20241h 25m

The Price of Produce: Navigating Farmers Markets, Wholesale and Value Add Products - Farm Startup - Episode 17

In this episode, host Diego and farmer Alec welcome Chaz Daughtry of Sweetwater Farms in Houston, Texas to the show to talk about selling to chefs, dealing with crop planning, and selling to multiple markets. Chaz also shares his experience building a value-added shelf-stable brand that works in parallel with the farm business. Get time and labor-saving farm tools at shop.modern grower.co Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Farm Small, Farm Smart Farm Small, Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast Check out Diego's book, Sell Everything You Grow, which is only $0.99 on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Everything-You-Grow-Homestead-ebook/dp/B0CJC9NTZF

Jun 27, 20241h 37m