Alt|Life

Conscious Consumption Part 2: The Physical and Spiritual Effects of Modern Farming with Alan Rosenberg


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In Part 2 of this special series on Alt Life, Sadaf Vahedna and Alan Rosenberg continue their exploration of regenerative and biodynamic agriculture, revealing how conscious consumption and sustainable practices can transform our physical and spiritual well-being. This conversation delves into the practical challenges of transitioning to regenerative methods, as well as the profound connections between soil health, probiotics, and human health.


Alan shares insights on the power of effective microorganisms and how they serve as the best form of probiotics for enhancing gut health and healing the environment. The discussion touches on the critical role of humus, the decomposed organic matter essential to soil fertility and life, linking its presence in soil to healing our own bodies. By examining the interconnectedness of nature’s systems, Sadaf and Alan offer a compelling vision of how mindful agriculture and conscious living can lead to a healthier, more harmonious world.


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Join us as we explore in Part 2 of this series:

  1. The Threefold Social Order
    Balancing spiritual life, social rights, and economics for a healthier society.
  2. Community and Consumer Role in Food Systems
    How consumers can influence food systems and support sustainable practices.
  3. Microorganisms and Soil Health
    The unseen heroes of soil health and how they impact human wellness.
  4. Rudolf Steiner’s Spiritual Science
    How Steiner’s spiritual teachings connect to farming and human growth.
  5. Environmental Responsibility and Water Stewardship
    Why responsible water use and ecosystem care are vital for agriculture.
  6. The Journey to Agriculture and Biodynamics
    Alan’s path to biodynamic practices and the wisdom gained along the way.
  7. Challenges and Resistance to Biodynamic Practices
    Overcoming skepticism and resistance in the farming community.
  8. Personal Growth and Frustration in Agricultural Work
    The challenges and personal evolution faced in adopting sustainable practices.
  9. Nature as a Teacher and the Role of Humus
    Learning from nature’s cycles and the importance of humus in healthy soil.
  10. Understanding Interconnectedness
    Recognizing the web of life that binds humans, soil, and all living things.
  11. Mindfulness and Being Present
    How a mindful approach to agriculture can transform lives and health.
  12. Optimism for Agroecology and Systemic Change
    Why there is hope for change through collaboration and sustainable practices.
  13. Critique of Food and Pharmaceutical Industries
    Questioning the motivations and impacts of these powerful industries.
  14. Holistic Training and Service-Oriented Leadership
    The role of community-minded leadership in reshaping food and farming.
  15. Reflections on Personal Growth and Legacy
    Alan’s thoughts on the legacy he hopes to leave and the importance of lifelong growth.

  • (00:00) - Introduction to Part 2
  • (00:48) - The True Cost of Convenience of our health
  • (06:40) - Choosing Freedom: Breaking Away from Food Corporations
  • (11:32) - Probiotics: Finding Life in Diversity
  • (18:49) - Harnessing the Power of Nature’s Transformative Forces
  • (26:42) - Conscious Consumers and a Shift in Awareness
  • (29:10) - The miracle of humus and other processes in soil
  • (34:15) - Reconnecting with the soul through food
  • (39:04) - A Vision for Healthier Minds, Bodies and Planet
  • (44:41) - Modern vs Holistic Approaches to Health and Food
  • (54:06) - OUTRO
  • Click here to view the episode transcript.

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    Connect with Alan Rosenberg:
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-rosenberg-7233a91/?originalSubdomain=za


    Alan Rosenberg’s bio:
    Alan Rosenberg, with over 50 years in agriculture across four countries, is a leading advocate for sustainable farming, specializing in soil health, fertility, and agroecology. Educated at Glen Agriculture College in South Africa and trained in Biodynamic Farming at Emerson College in the UK, Alan has earned multiple certifications, including Permaculture Design and Holistic Resource Management.

    He has held influential roles in South Africa's organic agriculture sector, shaping national policies through positions with the Biodynamic Agricultural Association of Southern Africa and the South African Organic Sector Organization. Alan is also an accomplished author, with notable works like *Organic Agriculture: A Handbook* and *Agroecology: The Promise of Future Flourish*. He continues to drive innovation as the founder of Lindros Whole Earth Consultants, developing agroecological systems and initiatives like the ROAM Mindfulness-based Learning™ Program.

    Residing in South Africa, Alan is a passionate educator, consultant, and family man, dedicated to a resilient, sustainable agricultural future.



    Production Credits:

    Produced by Sadaf Vahedna
    Podcast Manager: AVC Studio | Sarah Jane Ponce Asok
    Video Editing: Simbarashe Nyahwa


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    Alt|LifeBy Sadaf Vahedna