Pip Permaculture Podcast

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, editor Robyn Rosenfeldt speaks with academic-turned-farmer Tammi Jonas about her eight-year battle to secure historic reforms making it easier for small-scale farmers to build on-farm micro-abattoirs. They also explore her shift from vegetarian to butcher, her commitment to ethical food production and the thriving community-supported agriculture model she and her family run at Jonai Farm. Tammi Jonas' journey began in academia, where she delved into the complexities of food consumption and its cultural implications. However, her growing concerns about the ethical treatment of animals led her to a pivotal decision: to leave the academic world and embrace farming. One of Tammi's significant achievements is the establishment of a community-supported agriculture (CSA) model. This innovative approach not only supports sustainable farming practices but also fosters a strong community bond, by involving her community in the farming process, Tammi has created a model that benefits both the land and the people who depend on it. Tammi believes in the right of people to have access to nutritious and culturally appropriate food produced through ecologically sound and sustainable methods. Her work with the Food Sovereignty Alliance highlights her commitment to these principles and her desire to inspire others to join the movement. Tammi Jonas' story is a testament to the power of aligning one's career with personal values. Her journey from academia to agriculture is not just about farming; it's about making a difference in the world. By prioritizing ethical practices and community involvement, Tammi is paving the way for a more sustainable and just food system. Tune in to the Pip Podcast to hear more about her inspiring journey and the impact she's making in the world of agriculture. If you love inspiring stories, this episode is for you.

In this episode, Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with Jaclyn Crupi - author, gardener and granddaughter of two Italian nonnas - about the timeless lessons she learned from her grandparents and how they shape her gardening and lifestyle today. Jaclyn shares how her upbringing instilled in her a love of frugality, self-sufficiency and the simple joys of working with nature. Together they explore the challenges of gardening in a modern world, the importance of keeping cultural traditions alive and the magic of creating a garden that welcomes native wildlife. You’ll also hear Jaclyn’s down-to-earth tips for balancing growing, preserving, enjoying your harvest and why a simpler, slower approach to life can feel so rewarding. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation full of inspiration, nostalgia and practical wisdom for anyone who loves to grow.

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, we catch up once again with Jo Nemeth—a passionate advocate for low-impact living who hasn’t used money for over eight years. Jo shares the realities, challenges and deep joys of her unconventional lifestyle, and reflects on what she’s learned about community, resilience and what really matters. Tune in for an inspiring and grounded conversation that might just shift the way you think about how we live, spend and connect.

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, author Sarah Napthali joins Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt to talk about her latest book My Year of Psychedelics, and why a middle-aged Buddhist mother decided to spend a year experimenting with sacred plant medicines and other consciousness-expanding substances. Best known for her bestselling series Buddhism for Mothers, Sarah Napthali has long been a steady and grounded voice in the world of mindful parenting and Buddhist-inspired living. But her latest book takes a very different path. In My Year of Psychedelics, she documents a 12-month journey through the world of mushrooms, MDMA, LSD, ayahuasca, ketamine and more – with curiosity, caution and reverence. She discusses how powerful these substances can be, not only for profound joy – describing her first MDMA experience as ‘the best day of my life’ – but also for processing buried emotional experiences. From navigating heartbreak to revisiting childhood wounds and vicarious trauma from her former social work career, Sarah shares the insights that emerged during and after each session.

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt shares an insightful conversation with Aunty Munya about Indigenous seasons, connecting to country and how to become and Indigenous ally.

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, Robyn Rosenfeldt sits down with Heidi Marika, naturopath, medical herbalist, and author of Wildcraft and From the Wild. Heidi shares her passion for reconnecting with the plants growing all around us and how they can be used for food, medicine, and healing—both for us and the environment. Together, Robyn and Heidi delve into the overlooked abundance of wild plants and the importance of re-learning what our ancestors knew. Heidi opens up about her childhood spent foraging, her journey back to wild plant medicine, and why these "weeds" are so vital in times of uncertainty and change. In this episode, Robyn and Heidi discuss: * Why wild plants contain more nutrients than cultivated vegetables. * How to safely identify and use plants like dandelion, plantain, and nasturtium. * The role of wild plants in healing the soil and our bodies. * Practical tips for foraging greens and incorporating them into your diet. * How to make simple remedies like salves, teas, and fire cider. * The deep sense of connection and belonging that comes from working with wild plants. This episode is a fascinating and empowering conversation about unlocking the potential of plants that many of us overlook. Whether you’re curious about foraging, wild food, or finding connection to place through nature, Heidi’s insights will inspire you to explore the food and medicine growing right under your feet. To learn more about Heidi and her work, visit our show notes here: https://pipmagazine.com.au/content-type/podcast/ Check out Heidi's "Wild Plants - Health benefits, medicinal properties and how to forage them" article in Issue 35 of Pip here: https://pipmagazine.com.au/wild-plants-health-benefits-medicinal-properties-foraging/ You can explore Heidi’s books Wildcraft and From the Wild here: https://www.murdochbooks.com/browse/book/Heidi-Merika-From-the-Wild-9781761500091 For more tips on growing food, foraging, composting, and living more sustainably, subscribe to Pip here: https://pipmagazine.com.au/subscriptions/ We like to honour the traditional owners of the land on which this podcast was recorded, who are the Walbunja people of the Yuin nation. We pay our respects to elders past and present, and to any First Nations people listening today.

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, Robyn Rosenfeldt sits down with Nat Mendham, artist, creator, and founder of the Radical Postcard Club. Nat shares her journey of embracing a slower pace of life, finding balance between creative pursuits and parenting, and staying connected to nature’s rhythms. Together, Robyn and Nat explore the challenges of navigating burnout, work-life balance, and sustainable living in a fast-paced world. Nat opens up about her experiences during the Covid-19 lockdown, how she’s been setting boundaries, and the transformative power of rest and adaptability. In this episode, Robyn and Nat discuss: * The Radical Postcard Club and the role of physical artifacts in a digital world. * The concept of "radical rest" inspired by dormancy and hibernation in nature. * Strategies for managing burnout and setting healthy boundaries. * Observing the environment before making big changes in the garden. * Lessons from the Permaculture Design Course and creating adaptable designs. * Designing low-maintenance gardens and compost systems that integrate with daily life. * Finding calm and balance through rituals like gardening and embracing the philosophy of 4,000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman. This episode is a reflective and inspiring conversation on how to live in harmony with nature, design systems that support well-being, and prioritise what truly matters. Whether you’re exploring permaculture, seeking rest, or redefining balance in your life, Nat’s insights offer practical and thoughtful guidance. We want to give you a quick heads-up about this episode. Unfortunately, there are some parts where the sound quality isn’t up to our usual standard. This was something we didn’t notice during the recording and couldn’t resolve afterward. That said, the conversation is full of valuable insights and stories from Nat that we think you’ll enjoy. Thanks for your understanding, and we hope you find this episode as inspiring as we do! If you would like to read more about Nat, visit our show notes here: https://pipmagazine.com.au/episode-45-nat-mendham You can contact Nat through her website here: https://www.nataliemendham.com.au/ Pip articles contributed by Nat include: * Observe & Interact - Designing your permaculture dream: https://pipmagazine.com.au/observe-and-interact-permaculture/ * Radical Rest - Follow nature’s lead and allow yourself to slow, rest and recharge: https://pipmagazine.com.au/radical-rest/ To learn about how to to grow food, ferment, preserve, reduce waste, compost and more, visit Pip here: https://pipmagazine.com.au/ We like to honour the traditional owners of the land on which the podcast was recorded who are the Walbunja people of the Yuin nation. I would like to pay my respects to the elders past and present and any who are listening today.

In this episode of the Pip Podcast, Robyn Rosenfeldt sits down with Jade Miles, CEO of Sustainable Table, public speaker, author of FutureSteading, and host of the podcast of the same name. Jade is also a heritage fruit farmer and mother of three, balancing multiple roles while staying true to her values of sustainability and community. In this candid conversation, Robyn and Jade explore the realities of juggling a full life, from managing a farm to leading a national organisation, all while trying to live in alignment with their principles. Jade opens up about the challenges of balancing her work in environmental advocacy with her deep commitment to family life and local food systems. In this episode, Robyn and Jade discuss: * Challenging the perception of ‘doing it all perfectly’ as working parents. * The benefits of buying food in bulk and fresh food swaps. * The importance of collaboration and co-parenting in navigating the demands of daily life. * Balancing the desire to "do it all" with the reality of limited time and energy. * The power of stepping back to reflect when things feel misaligned and identifying your superpower. * The importance of rituals and self-care in staying grounded, including Jade’s personal sit-spot practice, spending time in nature and finding moments of stillness. * The shift from individualism to building "huddles" or communities that foster resilience and collective action. This episode is a thoughtful reflection on how we can each contribute to a more sustainable world while acknowledging our imperfections and limitations. If you're seeking inspiration on how to live a more grounded and connected life, this conversation is full of wisdom and practical insights.

This episode explores a thought provoking topic, something we often don’t talk about; death and what we do with our bodies after we die. I travelled to Bodalla on the NSW south coast to talk with Fiona McCuiag, from Walawaani Way Conservation Burial. She offers people the option to be buried in a way that is giving back to the environment and allowing our bodies to go back to the earth. This is a beautiful episode that explores the taboos around talking about death, the ritual of a natural burial, the regeneration process, and what the future holds for Fiona and Walawanni Way. We also go into how natural burials honour our loved ones, and nurture the earth. If you would like to read more about Fiona and regenerative natural burials, you can find the full story with photos here: https://grow.pipmagazine.com.au/fiona-mccuaig-natural-regenerative-burial/ You can contact Fiona through her website and earn more about what she offers here: https://www.walawaaniway.com/ We like to honour the traditional owners of the land on which the podcast was recorded who are the Walbunja people of the Yuin nation. I would like to pay my respects to the elders past and present and any who are listening today.

In this Pip Podcast, we chat with Amanda Reynolds, a Guringai Yuin woman. She’s an artist, storyteller, possum skin cloak maker, curator and a sharer of knowledge. In our heart-warming conversation, Amanda honours her profound connection to Country and shares the cultural significance of symbols and designs in Indigenous storytelling and the ancient wisdom passed down through generations. Amanda's storytelling weaves together symbols, designs, and the act of deep listening, offering an intimate look into the heritage that shapes her craft and the respect she upholds for her ancestors and the land. Amanda shares anecdotes of solace found in the presence of kangaroos and wallabies, and the sanctuary her home provides for them. We reflect on the totem system's pivotal role in conservation and sustainable living. These stories not only highlight the importance of living in harmony with Mother Earth but also stress the urgency of protecting our planet's natural habitats and advocating for the rights of all its inhabitants. Join us for this enlightening exploration of the resilience and joy within our communities, and the shared wisdom that binds us to every living being. Amanda shares an invitation to slow down, tune in to the cycles of nature, and embrace the environmental responsibilities that come with being guardians of the earth. The episode underscores the timeless wisdom of listening to both elders and the land itself and the impact of our choices on future generations. To find out more about Amanda and see the images we refer to in the podcast. https://pipmagazine.com.au/podcasts/pip-podcast-42-amanda-reynolds/

In this Pip Podcast, we chat to Alison about the diverse world of fungi and the importance of fungi in our ecological networks. Once it was mushrooms attracting all the attention. They still are but the growing interest in mycelium and the notion of subterranean networks of fungi is changing not only how we understand fungi and forests, but life. Fungi provide a fundamental foundation to the forest and are a key to understanding how forests work. Alison Pouliot is an ecologist, author and environmental photographer who focuses on the fascinating world of fungi. In this Pip Podcast, we chat to Alison about the diverse world of fungi and its importance in our ecological networks. And explore how fungi can be used in many different and diverse ways – from foraging and consuming fungi to making clothing and packaging products to medicinal uses. We hope you enjoy this episode and be sure to check out Alison’s article on fungi in Issue #28 of Pip Magazine. Subscribe to get your copy here: https://grow.pipmagazine.com.au/subscriptions/

As overconsumption continues to drive the climate crisis, Tasmanian building designer, Jane Hilliard, is quietly trumpeting the idea that less is actually more. Jane Hilliard is on a mission to claw back the overconsumption rampant in the building industry. Swimming against the metaphorical tide that promotes ever-expanding McMansion-style developments, Jane champions the concept of ‘enoughness’ in her professional life and in her everyday life, too. In Jane’s own words, enoughness is about “working out what you need to be happy and healthy, without taking more than your fair share.” And when our homes are created with this in mind, the positive impacts radiate.

Robyn talks to Rod Angelo, The Happy Farmer, about making his business viable by turning waste streams into inputs that would otherwise have cost money.

Robyn Rosenfeldt speaks with Helena Norberg-Hodge about the localisation movement, and why we need to be creating stronger local food systems and stronger connections within our community. Author and film maker, Helena Norberg-Hodge is the founder and director of the international non-profit organisation, Local Futures, a pioneer of the new economy movement, and the convenor of World Localisation Day. Over the past few years, we have been experiencing increasing problems with our country’s supply chains that are leaving us with empty supermarket shelves and issues accessing fresh produce and other supplies. To combat this, we need to be creating stronger local food economies, where the food we eat is grown within our local communities and not shipped in from across the globe. How is it that food shipped from the other side of the planet is cheaper than the food grown locally? And why is food grown in one country shipped across the world to be processed, only to be returned and sold back to that country again? It comes down to global supply chains and trade agreements that favour big business and industrialised agriculture, which make it almost impossible to survive as a small grower. Creating local food economies increases not only our local food security but also our happiness, as it is connection and community that humans crave. Norberg-Hodge shares her knowledge and experience of creating local food economies across the globe and ideas about how we can do the same. To find about more about Helena’s work and the localisation movement go to www.localfutures.org

A discussion with Nick Rose about how we can feed our nation with local ethical food that will help our food security. Nick discusses how we can create change to create a more secure food system.

Welcome to Pip Podcast #36. Today we speak to visual artist, business owner, creative director and proud Walbunga and Ngarigo woman, Cheryl Davison. Best known for her prints and paintings, Cheryl’s work has hung in the Art Gallery of New South Wales, is part of the National Museum of Australia’s permanent collection, is also the Aboriginal Creative Director with Four Winds Festivals and has recently opened Mungala Bugaali Gallery in Central Tilba, NSW, where as well as selling her own artwork and products, she sells the wares of other local artists and producers. In the Pip Podcast, Cheryl shares with us her journey of becoming an artist. She reveals how her art plays a far more important role than simply being an outlet for her creativity, in that it’s an important meeting point for Indigenous and non-Indigenous cultures, and a really useful tool with which to build long-overdue awareness and to help develop deep respect of the oldest culture on earth. Cheryl also displays her other artistic talent by performing a song for us. As Cheryl says, “I know that through singing and what we do and learning our culture and our language again, it heals us. And when we sing to Country, we heal Country and when we heal Country, we heal people because without healthy Country we don’t have healthy people.”. We hope you enjoy our discussion with Cheryl Davison. You can read more about Cheryl’s story in Issue #23 of Pip Magazine. Website: www.pipmagazine.com.au Facebook: @PipMagazineau Instagram: @pipmagazineau Youtube: @PipMagazine Pinterest: @PipMagazine

Pip Podcast is back! With the wonderful and inspiring Hannah Moloney. In this episode Robyn chats to Hannah about how she balances making change in the world with work, parenthood, and living a healthy sustainable life. Hannah shares her journey from starting ‘Goodlife Permaculture’ to becoming a regular guest presenter on ABC’s Gardening Australia and now finishing her first book. To read more about Hannah and her exciting projects check out the celebratory 20th issue of the Pip magazine: Website: www.pipmagazine.com.au Facebook: @PipMagazineau Instagram: @pipmagazineau Youtube: @Pip Magazine Pinterest: @Pip Magazine Hannah Moloney - Goodlife Permaculture: Website: https://goodlifepermaculture.com.au Facebook: @goodlifepermaculture Instagram: @goodlife_permaculture

It’s Pip Podcast time and this week we speak with Climate Council chief, scientist, conservationist, Australian of the Year and one of the country’s leading writers on climate change, Tim Flannery. In this podcast, Tim discusses where we stand in the fight against climate change and where the future is really heading based on current actions, attitudes and trends. Tim believes that it’s important to keep doing what we’re doing in our personal lives when it comes to living more sustainably, but that the most important thing that needs addressing is political change. Tim shares his ideas around what we can do to help create the momentum around changing the current political policies. Since we recorded this podcast, the NSW government has committed to a 20-year electricity infrastructure roadmap, which will see the government award long-term contracts for three different types of technology – wind and solar farms to be built in three regional renewable energy zones, pumped hydro and battery long-duration storage, and fast-start “firming” generation that ensures grid stability. We look forward to seeing the other states follow suit! http://www.pipmagazine.com.au

In this podcast Diego shares his passion for the ancient art of foraging. He shares some of his favourite cooking tips and theories on the reasons why many of us are rediscovering the lost art of foraging for wild food. We hope you enjoy.

In this episode Pip editor, Robyn Rosenfeldt speaks with local food pioneers Emma-Kate Rose and Robert Pekin from Food Connect in Brisbane. Food Connect is a local food CSA, supporting local farmers and providing customers with access to good quality, organic local food at a fair price to farmers and to customers. They are revolutionising our food systems.

Welcome to Pip podcast number 31. Today we journey to the central Victorian countryside to visit Mara Ripani. Mara Ripani is a photographer, cook, grower and Pip writer who is living the homesteader dream. In this podcast she chats to Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt about the simple rituals of her daily life. She also shares her journey to the country. The perfect listen for those of us who dream of a home on the range!

Pip Podcast #30: Aboriginal Fire Management with Victor Steffensen by Pip Permaculture Magazine

Welcome to the Pip Podcast number 29, and our first episode for 2020. In this episode Robyn talks about getting started gardening with Fabian Capomolla, aka the Hungry Gardener. Fabian has made a career out of getting people gardening at home. In 2009 he co-founded the Little Vegie Patch Co. More recently he has created the Hungry Gardener Podcast and written a book Growing Food the Italian Way.

It's Pip podcast time! Today Robyn is in conversation with Damon Gameau, actor, filmmaker and director of the new film 2040. The film is a hopeful vision for the future. A future in which humanity comes together to solve the crisis of climate change.

Welcome to our latest Pip Podcast! We're up to our 27th podcast, and in this episode Robyn chats with Natalie Isaacs – inspirational woman and founder of One Million Women.

Welcome to Pip Podcast number 26. In this podcast Robyn has a kitchen table conversation with chef, TV presenter, writer and grower Paul West of River Cottage Australia. Pull up a chair and enjoy as they talk all things food, family, culture andcommunity. In the podcast Paul shares his journey from dish-washer to TV chef to his most recent work writing about urban growing in his new book the Edible Garden Cookbook & Growing guide. Fill your cup and get inspired with Paul's contagious enthusiasm for food and community.

Welcome to Pip Podcast number 25. In this edition Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt learns about the slow flower movement chatting with Tara Luca from Olive Gap Organic Farm. Tara is sustainable flower grower and advocate from the Northern Rivers of NSW. In this podcast Tara explains the environmental issues in the conventional flower growing industry and shares how we can all make better bloom choices, without forgoing the beauty of flowers.

In this podcast we chat with Morag Gamble about what is a permaculture life. Morag has been involved in permaculture her whole life and lives the permaculture ethics in all aspects of her being. Morag shares her unique insights about what permaculture has to offer in the face of climate change.

In Pip podcast #23, Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with permaculture pioneer Rosemary Morrow about her latest work teaching permaculture to refugees. Along with a dedicated team of permaculture teachers from around the world, Rosemary is teaching permaculture to people in some of the harshest living conditions on earth, in Kabul, Kurdistan, Malaysia and Bangladesh, to name a few. These refugees are often in camps for ten to twelve years with no purpose and nothing to do. By teaching them permaculture she is giving them hope, knowledge, purpose, pride and the ability to grow food and not be totally reliant on rations.

In this episode we talk to zero waste advocate and author Erin Rhoads, aka The Rogue Ginger. We look at how she came to waste free living and we discuss how to make it work in everyday life.

In this podcast we speak with Lauren and Oberon Carter, authors of the fabulous book, A Family Guide to Waste-Free Living. They share their story about how they came to living a waste-free life and we discuss the potential hurdles and obstacles many of us face when trying to live waste-free. Lauren and Oberon live with their three daughters in Hobart on an average suburban block and live a waste-free life.

In this podcast we talk with Jane Milburn about slow clothing and ethical fashion and why we need to think more about the clothes we choose and the way we dress.

In this podcast we talk with Dr Megan Halcroft about native bees and why they are so important to have in our garden. She also shares her tips for attracting native bees to your garden and how to make sure you have food and shelter for them.

In this podcast we talk with Adrian Iodice from Beekeeping Naturally and we go inside the bee hive to learn about how we can best care for our bees and choose honey that supports the health of the bees.

In this podcast Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with Che Hall about eating insects and how to incorporate insects into your diet. Che explains what inspired her to eat insects and how to grow your own and do the same.

In this podcast Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with Nikki Wagner about our fascinating emerging understanding of the human microbiome. Nikki explains what the microbiome is and shares some easy ways to nurture your own.

Welcome to the Pip Permaculture Podcast! We're up to our fifteenth podcast, and this episode features Pip Editor Robyn Rosenfeldt in conversation with Kirsten Bradley of Milkwood Permaculture. In the podcast Kirsten talks in depth about her new book “Milkwood: Real Skills For Down to Earth Living”, her passion for tomatoes, as well as her family's journey to David Holmgren's Melliodora property and their life their. We hope you enjoy! Kirsten and Nick's book “Milkwood: Real Skills For Down to Earth Living” is available from the Pip Shop: www. Pipmagazine.com.au. You can also find out here about the Magazine, subscribe to Pip, read our garden tips, catch up on other podcasts and much more.

Greetings and welcome to Pip Permaculture Podcast Number 14! This time around Robyn chats with Pip Writer Emily Stokes about keeping a house cow, expanding on her article in the latest Pip, Issue 11 with the cow on the front cover. We hope you enjoy!

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with Stuart Muir Wilson, permaculturist, architect, activist and grandson of Permaculture co-originator Bill Mollison. Stuart shares stories from his unique childhood working on his grandfather's farm. He also discusses his latest projects building tiny-houses to stop homelessness, growing mushrooms with vulnerable youth and aid projects overseas. We hope you enjoy this expansive and interesting conversation with a unique new voice in permaculture.

Join Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt as she finds out more about the movement towards natural burials in Australia with holistic funeral director Libby Maloney.

Find out how a single mum in WA grows all her own food in her suburban yard! Jodie Vennitti speaks with Robyn Rosenfeldt about her patch in this down to earth preview from the forthcoming issue of Pip Permaculture Magazine.

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt talks in depth to Mariam Issa of RAW garden in Melbourne (Resilient Aspiring Women), recorded live at the Australian Permaculture Convergence 2018.

Welcome to Pip Permaculture Podcast #9, a cracker which features Pip Editor Robyn Rosenfeldt in conversation with permaculture Co-originator David Holmgren. In the podcast, David discusses his forthcoming book “Retrosuburbia” which features in the next issue of Pip, and will be launched at the Sustainable Living Festival and Urban Agriculture Forum later this month.

Three permaculture heavyweights: Su Dennett, Meg Ulman and Kirsten Bradley, talk women as changemakers in permaculture with Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt dives into the underwater world of edible seaweeds with Dr Alecia Bellgrove, who's seaweed foraging guide is featured in issue 9 of the magazine.

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt chats with permaculture pioneer and bush foods enthusiast on all things native Australian foods.

Nature play advocate Niki Buchan chats with Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt about the growing movement towards Bush Schools.

Maria Cameron of Hibi Farm in Melbourne chats with Pip Editor Robyn Rosenfeldt about their urban backyard goat co-operative.

Always wanted to know what permaculture actually is, but didn't know where to start? To celebrate International Permaculture Day Pip Permaculture Magazine chats with Hannah Moloney of Good Life Permaculture in Hobart, Tasmania about what permaculture means to her.

Pip editor Robyn Rosenfeldt is joined by Melbourne backyard farmer, urban agriculture enthusiast and quail-keeper Kat Lavers to talk all things quail, and the pros and cons of these great backyard animals.