In this fiery and flavorful episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane bring you along for a live podcast recording at Spokane’s first-ever Spice Fest at Scale House Market.

From basement-grown ghost peppers to bold bottles on local shelves, hot sauce maker John Zagajeski of Elixir Hot Sauce shares the story behind his small-batch success. Learn how collaborations with Vets on the Farm and Wild Sage Farms have helped turn up the quality—and the heat—of every bottle.

Plus, you’ll hear the hilarious (and slightly painful) Truth or Heat Challenge between John and Duane, and a grand finale Carolina Reaper tasting you won’t forget.

Whether you’re a spice-head or just love supporting local, this episode is a flavorful celebration of Spokane’s growing hot sauce scene.

Learn more: www.elixirsauce.com

Originally recorded at the 2021 Farm & Food Symposium, this special panel brings together four influential voices to explore the importance of nutrient density in our food and why it should matter to all of us — farmers, consumers, and everyone in between.

Moderated by Hilary Gonzalez of the Spokane Conservation District, this conversation features:

• David Montgomery & Anne Biklé, authors of What Your Food Ate

• Scott Gail, Bio Farming Manager at the Spokane Conservation District

• David Knaus, Founder of Apical Labs

Together, they dig into how soil health, farming practices, and regenerative systems are deeply tied to the nutritional quality of what ends up on our plates. The panelists offer science-backed insights and practical steps to move toward a more resilient, health-focused food system.

🎧 Whether you’re in the ag space or care about what’s fueling your body, this episode offers rich, timely perspectives on food, health, and the future of farming.

Don’t Miss This Year’s Farm & Food Symposium + Tilth Conference

📍 Spokane Valley, WA

📅 November 12–15

🔗 Register by October 28: tilthalliance.org/event/tilth-conference-farm-food-symposium

We’re back! Rocks to Roots returns for its 8th season, and we’re kicking things off with a powerful episode hosted by Hilary Gonzalez & Duane Zbranek.

In this conversation, our hosts sit down with Randy Johnson of Johnson’s Homestead to talk about legacy, land, and local food. From taking over the family farm as a teenager to building a community-centered business, Randy shares his journey through the ups and downs of farming life and why local food systems matter now more than ever.

Learn more about Johnson's Homestead at johnsonhomesteadmedicallake.com

In this Rewind episode, we revisit one of our most inspiring conversations — with John Edmondson, Director of Growing Neighbors, a Spokane-based initiative rooted in the belief that food, farming, and friendship can transform communities.

Originally aired on October 6, 2021, this episode explores how Growing Neighbors is turning neighborhood yards into thriving farm plots, building hyper-local food systems, and fostering meaningful human connection through shared work and purpose.

John shares how urban agriculture can be a tool for food access, sustainability, and deep community engagement — all while keeping things simple, joyful, and collaborative.

Whether it’s your first listen or a fresh revisit, this episode is a reminder of the power of growing things — together.

To kick off our Rocks to Roots Rewind Series, we’re going all the way back to where it started — Episode 1 with Vicki Carter, Director of the Spokane Conservation District.

In this conversation, recorded during the wild and unpredictable summer of 2020, Vicki shares the history of the Conservation District, its impact across Spokane County, and her bold vision for the future of land stewardship in our region.

You’ll also hear an early mention of what was then just a dream: the 50-acre Quarry campus that has since become the new home of the SCD — and a hub for conservation, education, and community connection.

Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are just joining in, we’re so glad you’re here. Let’s jump in.

After a year full of life changes, late nights, and a lot more coffee, Rocks to Roots is back!

In this bonus comeback episode, Hilary and Duane reunite in the studio to catch up on everything from becoming new parents (hello nap time!) to launching small businesses, teaching college classes, and expanding conservation programs across Spokane County.

They reflect on what it means to return to the mic with a fresh perspective, a deeper appreciation for the work, and a whole new rhythm of life. Plus, they share updates on the Spokane Conservation District’s latest projects — from regenerative farming and tree giveaways to the 10-year anniversary of Vets on the Farm and the launch of Spokane’s first year-round farmers market at the Quarry.

Sam Kalk owns Dryland Revival, a business he started to help educate homeowners on how to adopt sustainable and regenerative land practices. Whether you have a sprawling back 40 or a cozy backyard, Sam shares the principles of regenerative landscaping, including building healthy soil, protecting pollinators, and using local materials.

Sam's journey began in Austin, Texas, but he found his calling in Spokane, Washington. Starting with his yard, Sam transformed traditional grass lawns into thriving landscapes filled with native plants and natural materials.

Now in its third season, Dryland Revival helps homeowners create beautiful, low-maintenance yards that align with environmental and aesthetic goals. Tune in to Rocks to Roots with Sam Kalk to discover how to revamp your yard sustainably!

To learn more about Dryland Revival, follow them on Instagram at @drylandrevival or visit their website at www.drylandrevival.com. 

Bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike will find inspiration in the latest episode of the Rocks to Roots podcast, brought to you by the Spokane Conservation District. This episode shines the spotlight on the Spokane Audubon Society, featuring in-depth conversations with Shenandoah Marr, Outreach Coordinator, and Madonna Luers, a dedicated board member. Together, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of birding, conservation, and community engagement.
The Spokane Audubon Society, celebrating its 55th anniversary in 2023, has deep roots in the Spokane community. Shenandoah and Madonna discuss the society's rich history, ongoing field trips, and monthly meetings that bring together birders of all experience levels to explore local habitats and learn from experts. 
In addition to community engagement, the Spokane Audubon Society undertakes several conservation initiatives. The Save a Bird program helps rescue and rehabilitate injured birds, while the American Kestrel Nest Box Project aims to support the declining kestrel population. The society also collaborates with local schools, scout groups, and other conservation organizations to educate and inspire the next generation of birders. 

To learn how you can get involved in protecting and enjoying Spokane's rich avian life, visit www.audubonspokane.org.

In this episode of Rocks to Roots, we sit down with Hope Helms, the Executive Director of Greenplay Northwest, a Spokane-based nonprofit that transforms early childhood education through nature immersion programs. Hope shares Greenplay Northwest’s innovative approach, which operates outdoor preschools for children aged 3-6. 

Hope delves into the joy and fun of nature immersion, explaining how children learn and play entirely outdoors, fostering physical health, mental well-being, and a lifelong appreciation for the environment. Greenplay Northwest’s programs also include themed summer camps for kids aged 4-10, offering a thrilling and educational adventure covering topics like bird watching, rock hunting, and creative arts, ensuring a comprehensive outdoor learning experience that is as exciting as it is enriching.

Lastly, Hope highlights Greenplay Northwest’s community-driven nature and invites listeners to get involved through donations and sponsorships. She emphasizes the vital role of community support in expanding their programs and reaching more children. 

Listeners are encouraged to visit greenplayNW.org for more information on their offerings and how to support their mission. 

In this episode of Rocks to Roots, we chat with Katherine Alexander of Soil Smart, Soil Wise, a leader in regenerative living and conservation in Spokane. Catherine's journey from an RV traveler to an advocate for sustainable urban living is both inspiring and informative. She shares her expertise on biochar and compost, revealing their potential to revolutionize urban landscapes by enhancing soil health and supporting water cycles.
Katherine also highlights the importance of community involvement in conservation, offering practical tips for composting and responsible land design.
Join Hilary, the Spokane Conservation District & Katherine Alexander in exploring innovative ways to nurture our land and communities.

For more information, visit soilsmartsoilwise.com.