Modern Farming

n this episode of Modern Farming, What your Food Is and Isn't with Anne Bikle and David Montgomery, we dig into what’s really beneath our food—starting with the soil. Joined by husband-and-wife team David R. Montgomery and Anne Biklé, we explore how both natural processes and human practices like conventional agriculture have contributed to widespread soil depletion, and what that means for the future of farming and our health.

David, a MacArthur Fellow and professor of geomorphology at the University of Washington, is a broad-minded geologist who studies how earth processes shape ecosystems and societies. Anne, a free-range biologist, science writer, and regenerative gardener with a serious case of “plant lust,” brings deep insight into how soil health connects to human health and nutrition. Together, they’ve authored several acclaimed books, including What Your Food Ate, which builds on their trilogy about soil, microbiomes, and sustainable farming.

We talk about why it’s difficult to get farmers to change practices that seem to be working—especially when peer-to-peer knowledge often carries more weight than supplier advice. But as David and Anne explain, regenerative methods that feed the soil not only work in practice—they can also improve profitability while reducing agriculture’s environmental footprint. The challenge lies in overcoming inertia, rethinking incentive structures, and showing the evidence that healthy soil produces more nutrient-dense food.

Topics Covered:

• How soil depletion affects crop quality and human health

• Feeding the soil vs. feeding the plant: why it matters

• Barriers to change: behavioral, informational, and economic

• How farming practices influence nutrient density in food

• Key nutritional factors tied to soil health: micronutrients, phytochemicals, fat balance, and microbial metabolites

• Microbiomes and their essential role in host biology—why a healthy microbiome matters for plant, animal, and human function

• Managing inflammation and health outcomes through better food system choices

• The ripple effect: healthy soil → healthy plants → healthy people

Key Takeaway:

How our food is farmed doesn’t just impact the environment—it shapes the nutrition on our plates and the health of future generations. With the right knowledge, practices, and incentives, we can shift toward a system where healthy soil means healthy people.

🎧 Tune in and rethink what your food is… and isn’t

Learn more at https://www.dig2grow.com/

Books Links:

Dirt: The Erosion of Civilization

https://www.indiebound.org/search/book?keys=dirt+erosion+of+civilizations

The Hidden Half of Nature

https://www.indiebound.org/search/book?keys=the+hidden+half+of+nature

Growing a Revolution: Bringing Our Soil Back to Life

https://www.indiebound.org/search/book?keys=Growing+a+Revolution

What Your Food Ate

https://www.indiebound.org/search/book?keys=what+your+food+ate

In this recap of the Dirt to Dinner series, Brad and Nick reflect on their conversations with two trailblazers in regenerative agriculture—Dr. Jonathan Lundgren from Ecdysis Foundation and Will Harris of White Oak Pastures.

Brad shares firsthand insights from his time with Dr. Lundgren and his research team, who spent over a week in Florida gathering data on soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative farming practices. He highlights the depth of John’s research and the collaborative effort it takes to push agricultural science forward.

The conversation then shifts to White Oak Pastures, where Brad describes his visit as an almost spiritual experience—watching Will Harris’s cattle seamlessly rotate through pastures in a way that mimics nature’s design. Nick and Brad dive into the challenges both guests face in their mission to reshape the food system, emphasizing the passion and perseverance required to lead the regenerative movement.

As Dirt to Dinner comes to a close, Brad and Nick give a sneak peek at what’s next for Modern Farming. The upcoming episodes will shift toward the intersection of food and nutrition, featuring expert guests who will share valuable insights into how farming practices impact the quality of the food on our plates.

Don’t miss this episode as we wrap up a powerful series and gear up for more conversations that dig deep into the world that feeds us!

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform.

https://www.bluedasher.farm/

https://whiteoakpastures.com/

Guest: Will Harris, fourth-generation cattleman and owner of White Oak Pastures, a pioneering regenerative farm in Bluffton, Georgia.

Episode Overview:

In the final installment of Dirt to Dinner on the Modern Farming podcast, we sit down with Will Harris, a leader in regenerative agriculture who transformed his family’s farm from an industrialized cattle operation into a sustainable, pasture-based, vertically integrated farm. Will shares his journey of moving away from conventional farming methods and embracing humane animal husbandry, environmental sustainability, and rural community revitalization.

Topics Covered:

✔️ The History of White Oak Pastures – From industrialized cattle farming to regenerative agriculture.

✔️ Indicators of Land Health – Earthworms, plant diversity, soil organic matter, and more.

✔️ The Importance of Allowing Animals to Exhibit Natural Behaviors – How rotational grazing and multispecies farming contribute to ecosystem health.

✔️ Revitalizing Bluffton, Georgia – The economic and social impact of regenerative farming on a rural community.

✔️ The Challenges & Rewards of Regenerative Agriculture – Why it’s a high-risk, low-reward model in the short term but leads to long-term health, ecological, and rural revival benefits.

✔️ Farm Operations & Land Management – Managing 5,000 acres, moving cattle daily, and rotating species strategically.

✔️ Education & Outreach – White Oak Pastures’ 501(c)(3) nonprofit and internship programs for training the next generation of regenerative farmers.

✔️ The Three-Legged Stool of Farming Success – Balancing production, processing, and marketing to create a thriving farm business.

About White Oak Pastures:

A six-generation family farm dedicated to regenerative agriculture, White Oak Pastures raises 10 species of livestock, produces organic vegetables, and operates on-farm red meat and poultry abattoirs—one of the only farms in the U.S. to do so. With 155 employees, the farm is not just regenerating land but also rebuilding the rural community of Bluffton, Georgia.

🔗 Learn More: White Oak Pastures Website https://whiteoakpastures.com/

• White Oak Pastures Farm - ​​White Oak Pastures is a six-generation family farm in south Georgia, pasture-raising 10 species of livestock, eggs, organic vegetables, honey, and other things. We do this on almost 5,000 acres of land, in a radically traditional way.

In this second installment of the Dirt to Dinner series, we welcome agroecologist Dr. Jonathan Lundgren, Executive Director of Ecdysis Foundation and CEO of Blue Dasher Farm. Jon’s groundbreaking research is reshaping the future of agriculture, demonstrating how regenerative farming can restore ecosystems, improve farm profitability, and transform rural communities.

In this episode, Jon shares his journey into regenerative agriculture and the science behind it, focusing on the 1000 Farms Initiative, which studies food production across 35 crop systems and multiple livestock systems to gain an in-depth understanding of the nation’s food system.

Key Topics Discussed:

🌱 How regenerative farming creates more nutritious food, better profits, and healthier ecosystems

🐞 Why pests aren’t the problem—they’re a symptom of deeper soil health issues

💰 The financial and environmental benefits of regenerative agriculture, including its potential to break cycles of farm debt

🌾 The importance of cover crops, biodiversity, and soil health in creating resilient, productive farms

📊 Data-backed evidence showing how regenerative practices improve biodiversity, rural community resilience, and food quality while also reducing health risks and increasing carbon sequestration

Jon challenges traditional agricultural mindsets, explaining why some growers are hesitant to embrace regenerative methods and how shifting to this approach could revolutionize farming for future generations.

🎧 Tune in for an insightful discussion on the power of regenerative agriculture and how it’s shaping the future of food!

🔜 Stay tuned for Part 3 of the Dirt to Dinner series, where we continue the discussion with Will Harris, owner of White Oak Pastures one of the largest pasture-raised livestock operations in the entire nation.

Welcome to the Modern Farming podcast's newest three-part series, Dirt to Dinner, exploring the connections between soil, farming practices, and the food we eat. In our Soil Special episode, Brad and Nick dig deeper into the foundations of regenerative agriculture and its role in modern farming. Is regenerative the new organic? And what does that mean for farmers and consumers alike?

Topics Covered:

🌱 The history of soil science—how long have we really understood soil health?

🌾 Regenerative farming—a centuries-old practice, first referenced in 1753.

🌿 What is humus? The role of organic matter in soil fertility.

🔬 Rhizophagy and soil biology—how microbes help plants grow.

🍎 Brix levels in food—why they matter for taste and nutrition.

🚜 The real challenge for growers—farming isn’t just labor-intensive; it requires expertise in soil health, plant science, and ecosystem management.

Brad shares insights on how increasing biological activity in soil can boost Brix levels, leading to healthier, more nutrient-dense crops. Join us for a deep dive into soil science as we set the table for the rest of the Dirt to Dinner series!

🔜 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll be joined by Dr. Jonathan Lundgren—agroecologist, Executive Director of Ecdysis Foundation, and CEO of Blue Dasher Farm. Dr. Lundgren’s research is shaping the future of regenerative agriculture, focusing on how biodiversity strengthens agroecosystems and rural communities. In our next episode, we’ll explore how ecologically intensive farming practices can enhance resilience, productivity, and the long-term sustainability of our food system. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Modern Farming, we’re diving into the fascinating world of pollination with special guest Helena Peterson! As an 18-year-old Agriculture Advocate, 4-H State Executive Board member, and one of Florida’s six Youth Pollinator Ambassadors, Helena is passionate about educating the next generation on the importance of pollinators and how we can protect them.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🐝 What is pollination? How plants rely on pollinators to reproduce and why this process is essential for food production.

🦇 Beyond bees! Discover how bats, hummingbirds, butterflies, and other creatures play a role in pollination.

🌸 Pollinator-friendly plants – What to plant in your garden to attract and support pollinators.

🌞 Timing matters – How the time of day affects which pollinators visit certain flowers.

🏡 Attracting pollinators at home – Simple ways to create a pollinator-friendly environment in your own backyard.

⚠️ Threats to pollinators – The biggest challenges facing pollinators today and how we can help.

🌿 The importance of native plants – Why choosing the right plants makes all the difference for local pollinator populations.

👩‍🌾 How young people can get involved – Opportunities in 4-H, school programs, and community initiatives to support pollinators and sustainable agriculture.

Join the Conversation!

Got questions about pollinators or sustainable farming? Reach out to us on social media or visit greenjeanfoundation.org to learn more!

🎧 Tune in now and let’s work together to protect the pollinators that help feed the world! 🌍🐝

Additional resource links:

About 4-H - https://4-h.org/about/benefits/

Find your 4-H office - https://florida4h.ifas.ufl.edu/find-your-local-office/

About Pollinator Ambassadors - https://4-h.org/programs/pollinator-habitat-program/

In this episode of Modern Farming, we dive into the business of producing food as a passion, exploring how innovative thinkers are transforming passion in agriculture into full-fledged businesses. Logan shares his journey from a small idea to a thriving enterprise, while Brad discusses the role of technology in modern agriculture. Nick reminds us that success isn’t just about growth—it’s about networking, relationships, and prioritizing family.

Beyond the business side, we also discuss an important reality: farming isn’t free food—every egg, jar of honey, crop, and cut of meat represents hard work, time, and resources. Whether it’s maintaining AI-enhanced hives or caring for livestock, food production is a labor-intensive process that requires innovation, expertise, and dedication.

🌱 Key Takeaways:

✅ Unique solutions drive success – Passion projects become businesses by solving real agricultural challenges.

✅ Embracing change – Moving beyond “the way it’s always been done” is key to innovation.

✅ New technology – While advancements help, human innovation is still essential for problem-solving.

✅ Small business realities – The struggles of entrepreneurship, balancing risk and reward.

✅ The power of networking – Relationships, especially family connections, matter just as much as career moves.

✅ Farming isn’t free food – Every bite we take is backed by hard work, financial investment, and countless hours of effort.

💡 Consumer Insight:

When you buy local eggs, honey, meat, or produce, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re supporting the farmers who wake up early, work through unpredictable weather, invest in equipment, and make difficult business decisions every day. Understanding the true cost of food helps bridge the gap between consumers and producers, ensuring sustainable and fair agricultural practices.

🚜 Whether you’re a farmer, an entrepreneur, or a conscious consumer, this episode is packed with insights on turning agricultural passion into business success while appreciating the work that goes into the food on our tables.

🔗 Listen Now and Follow Us!

💬 Join the Conversation: What’s a problem in agriculture you’d love to see solved? Share your thoughts below!

#PrivateAgServices #AgInnovation #FarmBusiness #KnowYourFarmer

In the final episode of our Modern Farming podcast series, You Are What You Eat, we welcome Erin Martin, founder of FreshRx Oklahoma and Co-Lead of the Oklahoma Food is Medicine Policy Coalition. A dedicated advocate for regenerative agriculture, soil health, and the power of food as medicine, Erin is transforming the way we think about nutrition and health.

Brad, Logan, and Nick sit down with Erin to discuss the groundbreaking impact of FreshRx, a program demonstrating how dietary changes can dramatically improve health—sometimes in as little as one month. From reversing diabetes to addressing chronic illness, Erin shares how access to nutrient-dense foods is changing lives.

Join us as we explore the deep connection between food, nutrition, and overall well-being, the role of agriculture in shaping health, and the future of nutrient-dense farming. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation!

Meet Our Guest: Erin Martin

Originally on the path to becoming a lawyer, Erin shifted her focus to gerontology after working in a retirement community. While earning her master’s at USC, she led a team supporting over 700 low-income older adults, inspiring her to create Conscious Aging Solutions. Her work in longevity revealed the critical role of food access, leading her to become certified in Regenerative Soil Advocacy. After returning to Tulsa during the pandemic, Erin co-founded FreshRx Oklahoma, a nationally recognized prescription produce program. Now, she champions food as medicine to improve public health, reduce food insecurity, support sustainable agriculture, and lower healthcare costs.

Welcome to the second episode of our “You Are What You Eat” series on the Modern Farming Podcast! In this episode, we dig deep into the nutrient density of foods—what it is, why it’s critical for your health, and how it’s been declining over the past 50 years. Shockingly, studies show we’ve lost 20–50% of the nutritional value in many common foods. But what’s behind this decline, and what can we do to reverse the trend?

We’ll explore the history of nutrient tracking, going back to a time before 1950 when micronutrients weren’t even considered in food data, and discuss how this has impacted modern diets. But it’s not just a human health issue—declining nutrient density affects plant health, pollinators, and entire ecosystems.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

🌱 What is Nutrient Density?

🍎 The Shocking Decline: How we’ve lost up to 50% of key nutrients in our food supply.

📜 A Look Back: Why micronutrients weren’t tracked before 1950 and how that shaped modern diets.

🐝 Environmental Impact: How decreased plant health affects pollinators and biodiversity.

🦠 Healthy Soil, Healthy You: The surprising benefits of soil bacteria—even the kind we consume on fruits and vegetables.

🍇 Brix Measurement: Understanding Brix as a tool to assess not just sugar, but overall plant health and nutrient density.

🌾 Regenerative Agriculture: How regenerative and alternative farming practices are improving both nutrient density and crop productivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Nutrient density impacts more than just our health—it’s tied to the health of the planet.

• The soil microbiome plays a direct role in the nutrients we get from our food.

• Regenerative agriculture offers hope, restoring both soil health and food quality.

📅 Don’t miss the next episode in our “You Are What You Eat” series—subscribe, rate, and review the Modern Farming Podcast wherever you listen!

In this episode of “You Are What You Eat,” on Modern Farming, we dig into the fascinating world beneath our feet—where plants, microbes, and nutrients work together to sustain life. We explore how soil biologics and root exudates influence crop nutrition and soil health. Understanding these processes not only helps farmers and gardeners grow healthier plants but also ensures the food we eat is packed with the nutrients we need.

Key Topics Discussed:

🦠 Soil Biologics: Microbial Life & Plant Health

• What are soil biologics, and how do they impact plant growth?

• The essential relationship between beneficial microbes and plant roots.

• How microbes help plants absorb nutrients, fight disease, and improve soil structure.

💧 Root Exudates: Plants Feeding the Soil

• What are root exudates, and why do plants release them?

• How sugars, organic acids, and enzymes from roots create a thriving microbial ecosystem.

• The role of exudates in unlocking nutrients, supporting soil life, and enhancing crop resilience.

🦠 Soil Biologics: Microbial Life & Plant Health

• What are soil biologics, and how do they impact plant growth?

• The essential relationship between beneficial microbes and plant roots.

• How microbes help plants absorb nutrients, fight disease, and improve soil structure.

🥗 Good Nutrition for All Crops = Good Nutrition for Us

• How soil quality directly impacts the nutrient density of our food.

• Why locally grown and farm-to-table produce often has superior nutritional value.

• Ways farmers and home gardeners can boost soil health to grow healthier, more nutritious crops.

Takeaways:

✔ Healthy soil = healthy food. The way we grow our crops impacts the nutrient quality of what we eat.

✔ The carbon cycle and microbial life are crucial for maintaining soil health and plant resilience.

✔ Plants do more than grow—they communicate! Through root exudates, plants actively shape their environment.

✔ Dormancy isn’t just about survival—it’s about preparation. Perennial plants store and manage nutrients to thrive year after year.

🌱 Want to learn more about how soil health impacts your food? Tune in and join the conversation! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with fellow growers, gardeners, and food enthusiasts.