Food Forest Podcast

Tony Rinaudo, the mind behind the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration movement, reveals how degraded lands can be revived by regenerating trees from existing root systems. From his childhood love of trees to his breakthrough moment in Niger, Tony shares how farmers, communities, and small actions can spark a global restoration revolution rooted in hope, education, and shared vision.

Join host Louis De Jaeger as he interviews Steve Gabriel, co-owner of Wellspring Forest Farm and author of Farming the Woods. Discover how to transform existing forests into thriving food-producing ecosystems through agroforestry. Steve shares insights on mushroom cultivation, tapping trees for sap, and the crucial role of biodiversity and community in sustainable land management. Perfect for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture and deepening their connection to nature.

From Bozeman, Montana, Kareen Erbe shares how to design thriving food forests in cold climates, build soil health, and grow resilient communities. In this episode, she talks about her journey from human rights work to permaculture, the importance of local food systems, and how community gardening can foster connection, sustainability, and hope – even where winters are long and harsh.

From childhood gardening in Brazil to designing thriving agroforestry systems in Australia, Thiago Barbosa shares a journey rooted in passion, resilience, and the belief that nature thrives through collaboration. In this episode, he talks about building a community farm for people with disabilities, the vital role of support species, understanding local climates, and how growing your own food can tackle fears about scarcity and build a sustainable future.

Climate psychologist Thomas Doherty explores the intersection of climate change and mental health. This episode discusses eco-anxiety, the role of environmental identity, the importance of community, and how hope and emotional literacy help us navigate ecological challenges.

In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Anastasiya Volkova, a leader in Ukrainian permaculture, about her experiences and efforts during the ongoing war in Ukraine. Anastasiya discusses the challenges of living in a war zone, the mental health impacts on the community, and how permaculture has adapted to support displaced people. She emphasizes the importance of community networks, resilience, and the healing power of nature. The conversation also touches on the future of permaculture in Ukraine, food security, and the personal responsibility of individuals to foster peace.

In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Klaus Lotz shares his incredible journey from Germany to New Zealand, highlighting his experiences with Syntropic Agroforestry and the importance of indigenous wisdom in agriculture. He discusses the transformative power of permaculture and the role of education in fostering sustainable farming practices. Klaus also delves into his innovative approaches to mushroom cultivation and the significance of community involvement in regenerative agriculture. Through his insights, he emphasizes the need for a shift towards perennial crops and the potential for Syntropy to revolutionize food production.

In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Robert Guyton shares his journey of developing a thriving permaculture food forest in New Zealand over 35 years. He discusses the evolution of his garden, the importance of biodiversity, and the role of community engagement in sustainability. Robert emphasizes the significance of storytelling and personal connections to plants, advocating for a philosophy of co-creation with nature. He envisions a future where localized communities thrive, and he encourages listeners to actively participate in their environments through observation and creativity.

In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Rebel Black, founder of The Hungry Spirits, discusses her journey in regenerative agriculture, focusing on Syntropic Agroforestry and its potential to transform dryland farming in Australia. She emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking, community healing, and the role of intuition in decision-making. Rebel shares her experiences with climate challenges, plant species suited for arid environments, and the emotional aspects of farming and personal growth. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of healing the land and the soul, and the need for a shift in perspective towards sustainability and resilience.

Eric Toensmeier, pioneer in agroforestry and perennial agriculture, reveals why perennial plants hold the key to sustainable farming, carbon sequestration, and climate resilience. From edible leaves to carbon farming and Project Drawdown, this episode explores how trees can transform our food systems and fight climate change.