In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined once again by farmer, mentor, and collaborator Cathryn Henning to introduce a project that has been months in the making: the Foundations in Land Stewardship Program, a hands-on farm school based in San Diego.

We share the story behind how this program came to life, the gap it’s designed to fill, and why land-based education is more needed now than ever. Drawing from our lived experiences as farmers, we explore what it truly means to steward land in a way that is reciprocal, values-driven, and rooted in community.

This conversation is both an invitation and ultimately a vision - one that extends beyond San Diego - calling in a new generation of farmers, land stewards, and engaged community members to participate in rebuilding our relationship with land and food systems.

Tune in to learn more about:

• Why there is a growing need for accessible, land-based education
• The inspiration behind creating a farm school in San Diego
• What it really takes to step into farming (beyond the romanticized version)
• The structure of the program, including hands-on learning, mentorship, and integration sessions
• How diverse farming practices and perspectives shape a more resilient food system
• The importance of building a shared language around land stewardship
• How community support can help farms (and farmers) truly thrive
• What it means to be in relationship with land through values like reciprocity and care

About the Program:
The Foundations in Land Stewardship Program is a three-month, in-person farm school designed to support those entering or deepening their relationship with land and food systems.

Students will:

• Visit multiple farms across San Diego County
• Learn directly from experienced farmers and land stewards
• Participate in hands-on activities and real-world applications
• Engage in integration sessions to process and apply what they’re learning
• Receive mentorship and support on a personal project
  

The program runs from May 2nd to August 1st, with classes held on Saturdays from 9am–2pm.
Applications are open, with limited scholarships available. 

Connect + Learn More:

• Apply for the Foundations in Land Stewardship Program: https://www.handsinthesoil.farm/farmschool
• Follow Hannah on Instagram: @hannahkeitel