Like author Simon Sinek, Daniel Austin of Green Sprig Ag and Little Hen Farm encourages people to start with their “why.” Doing so will help people understand their motivation and refine their purpose in life and work. Knowing both the “why” and the “how” of farming and building soil health is critically important to economic viability, community well-being, and true sustainability. Jeff Ishee, Mary Sketch Bryant, and Eric Bendfeldt continue their conversation with Daniel by phone to learn more about his “why” and “how” of farming and growing local grains.

Daniel emphasizes that farmers need to know and understand their "why" for all aspects of their farm operation. On his farm, he aims to care for and rebuild the soil while also maximizing the number of farm enterprises the land can sustain. Daniel also encourages farmers to continually surround themselves with positive mentors and peers. Similarly, he desires to be a good mentor for others in the same way that key mentors have been instrumental in his own journey

Green Sprig Ag is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains.in Franklin County, Virginia. To learn about the Common Grain Alliance and the upcoming Mid-Atlantic Grain Fair and Conference, please visit https://www.commongrainalliance.org/mid-atlantic-grain-fair

Learn more about the Virginia Soil Health Coalition and pledge your support for soil health at https://www.virginiasoilhealth.org/ and https://4thesoil/take-the-pledge