In this episode, we dive into the world of market gardening with Jodi Roebuck, a globally inspired farmer from New Zealand. Jodi shares his journey from surfing on volcanic coastlines to building a thriving farm from compact subsoil, emphasizing soil health, composting, and efficient farming techniques. Drawing on lessons from traveling the world and visiting diverse farms, he highlights the value of learning through hands-on experience and cross-disciplinary inspiration. We discuss the principles of bio-intensive farming, lean systems, and the art of balancing productivity with sustainability. This conversation explores the resilience, innovation, and passion it takes to create a farm that’s not just a livelihood but a meaningful connection to the land and community.

PLEASE make sure to subscribe to the podcast, download our episodes, and rate them! Your support means the world to us. Thank you!

Timestamps

[1:48] Turning volcanic subsoil into thriving farmland.

[5:33] Surfing as a metaphor for farming: Observation and timing.

[10:04] Building resilience through composting and soil health.

[15:27] The importance of traveling and learning from other farms.

[20:12] Lessons in bio-intensive farming and managing weed pressure.

[25:05] Lean systems: Eliminating waste and maximizing efficiency.

[33:14] Transitioning from seed production to market gardening.

[40:08] Year-round growing: Challenges and strategies for winter crops.

[50:22] Creating strong community connections through local markets.

[1:04:18] Long-term investments and scaling sustainably.

[1:15:42] The future of small-scale farming and expanding potential.

[1:24:33] Family, fitness, and finding balance in farm life.

[1:30:12] Designing farms for efficiency and reduced labor.

[1:40:45] Reflections on the global movement for sustainable farming.

[1:50:12] Rapid-fire Q&A and final thoughts on farming inspiration.

Sponsors

Tessier 

Use promocode MGI10 for 10% off and free shipping on your first purchase for the Eastern North American regions (Ontario, the Maritimes, and the states of Vermont, Maine, New York, and New Hampshire). 

Market Gardener Institute⁠ 

Join the Masterclass waiting list!

Heirloom 

Limited time offer of 20% off yearly subscription and use promocode PODCAST to get an extra month of free trial.

Links/Resources

Market Gardener Institute:  https://themarketgardener.com/ 

Masterclass:  https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass/ 

Newsletter:  https://themarketgardener.com/newsletter

Blog:  https://themarketgardener.com/blog 

Books: https://themarketgardener.com/books

Growers & Co: https://growers.co/

Heirloom: https://heirloom.ag/

The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/

Follow Us

Website: http://themarketgardener.com 

Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute 

Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners 

Guest Social Media Links

Jodi:

Website: https://www.roebuckfarm.com/ 

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jodiroebuckofroebuckfarm2967

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodiroebuck

JM:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortier

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier