Local Food and Urban Farming with Jason Michael Thomas

This episode of the Okayest Cook podcast features an in-depth conversation with Jason Michael Thomas, an Indianapolis-based urban farmer and chef, on the benefits of eating local, farming, and gardening. Recorded on location at Jason's urban farm in downtown Indianapolis, the discussion covers a variety of topics including the importance of connecting with nature through food, the advantages of starting a garden, and the impact of local farming on the environment and community. Jason shares his journey from starting in the food industry at a young age to embracing urban farming and educating others on the value of growing and consuming locally-sourced food. The episode also explores the challenges of modern agriculture, the concept of food as freedom, and practical advice for starting a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program. Additionally, Jason provides a unique recipe for walleye caviar, underscoring the joy of using fresh, local ingredients.

AI Generated 'Chapters'

00:00 Opening Banter and Introduction to the Okayest Cook Podcast

00:26 First Guest Episode: On Location with Jason Michael Thomas

02:10 Jason's Journey: From Busboy to Urban Farmer

04:10 The Magic of Fresh Produce and the Urban Farm Experience

06:05 Starting Your Own Garden: Tips and Inspirations

08:44 The Importance of Eating Local: A Deep Dive

14:54 Exploring the Health Benefits of Local Foods and Honey

21:07 Supporting Local Farmers and Sustainable Agriculture

27:46 Navigating Organic and Local Options in Grocery Stores

30:55 The True Cost of Quality: A Deep Dive into Sustainable Dining

33:10 Challenging the Status Quo: The Case for Local and Sustainable Food

35:10 The Personal Health Journey: From Diet Choices to Gut Health

36:16 Building a Sustainable Future: Education, Access, and Personal Responsibility

38:02 The Power of Local: Embracing Community and Supporting Small Farmers

42:36 Urban Farming and the Joy of Self-Sufficiency

47:20 The CSA Model: Connecting Consumers with Local Farms

50:17 A Chef's Perspective: Crafting Exceptional Dishes with Local Ingredients

56:41 Closing Thoughts: The Importance of Local Sourcing and Community Engagement

Find Jason: 

https://jasonmichaelthomas.myshopify.com/

Instagram @jasonmichaelthomas

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasonxray

Recipe

Cure Walleye fish eggs in beet juice & kombucha vinegar & salt

Serve on top of Soft scrambled egg in the shell

(contact Jason for more details!)

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Crew: 

Chris Whonsetler

Email: [email protected]

Web: ChrisWhonsetler.com

Instagram: @FromFieldToTable & @WhonPhoto

Andy Heiser

Email: [email protected]

Web: RakeDevelopment.com

Instagram: @andheiser

Corey Cole

Email: [email protected]

Web: CoreyRCole.com

Instagram: @ruggedhunter

Colton Heiniger

Email: [email protected]

Web: ElevateAccountingServices.com