Meet Kizzy Anderson James—a fierce spirit cultivating community, creativity, and flavor straight from the soil. In this episode of Edible Activist, host Melissa L. Jones welcomes the dynamic force behind Anderson James Farm. Kizzy is an urban farmer, disabled veteran, chicken mama, and storyteller whose journey from military service to farm life is as inspiring as it is impactful.

Together, they explore the roots of her entrepreneurial path, the power of raising chickens in the city, and how she fuses creativity into everything from her crops to her kitchen. Kizzy also shares memories of the family cooks who shaped her and the farm-fresh meals that keep her connected to her purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with Tamara, the founder of Great Mother Garden Solutions, to explore the deep roots of land stewardship and herbal wisdom. From ancestral influences to the decision to grow her own herbs, she shares her journey of reconnecting with the earth. We unpack the overlooked healing power of dandelions, discover her favorite herbs for everyday use, and hear her heartfelt advice for aspiring growers looking to cultivate their own herbal gardens. Whether you're a seasoned grower or a curious beginner, this conversation is full of grounded insights and inspiration straight from the soil.

In this episode, we explore the rich tapestry of Black foodways with Josmine Evans, founder of Indigo Culinary & Co. As a cultural preservationist, chef, and storyteller, Josmine is on a mission to honor the culinary traditions of the African diaspora—one spice blend, one dish, and one story at a time. She shares how her travels across the African Atlantic have deepened her understanding of ancestral foodways and how her work with The Joy Project is helping to reclaim and celebrate these legacies. From preserving Black culinary traditions to using food as a form of resistance, Josmine invites us into a powerful conversation about seasoning, storytelling, and the liberation found at the table.

In this episode of Edible Activist, we’re joined by Olivia and Deja, co-Hub leaders of Black Girl Environmentalist DC. Focused on fostering an inclusive climate movement, they organize events in the District and surrounding areas to connect Black women to nature and environmental justice work. Tune in as they share the story behind Black Girl Environmentalist, their efforts to shift narratives, and what environmental justice looks like when led by Black and Brown communities.

As we step into March, I’m reflecting on what it means to march forward—with purpose, even when the ground beneath us feels unsteady. In this episode, I share thoughts on resistance, the quiet ways we push back, and why rest is just as important as the fight. Plus, I’m talking about my plans to reclaim the outdoors and an upcoming event you don’t want to miss—the Taking Nature Black conference. Let’s keep marching, y’all. Stay rooted, stay present, and let’s move forward together.

Join me as I reflect on 2024—celebrating Edible Activist’s key milestones, and the exciting journey ahead in amplifying Black voices in growing spaces.

In this episode, we sit down with Najee Ellerbe, founder of Everybody's Juice, to explore the journey behind his growing health-focused business. We revisit his origin story, building on his previous appearance in Episode #56, and discuss the biggest lessons he's learned along the way. Najee also shares the benefits of ashwagandha, a supplement he offers through Everybody's Juice, which played a key role in his own healing journey. Finally, he explains how he integrated HSA/FSA into his business model to make healthy juice more affordable and accessible.

In this episode of Edible Activist, we welcome back LaMonika Jones, Executive Director of DC Hunger Solutions, to discuss the latest updates on SNAP benefits, focusing on the changes with Give SNAP a Raise and its impact on families in the District. We’ll also delve into the Farm Bill, highlighting the importance of finalizing legislation that supports all aspects of the food ecosystem. Tune in for these essential updates!