How can farmers thrive in extreme climates while focusing on storage crops and winter sales?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Sam Knapp who is the co-owner and primary farmer at Offbeet Farm in Fairbanks, Alaska. With a master’s degree in plant ecology and years of experience on vegetable farms, Sam built his farm from the ground up to focus entirely on storage crops and winter sales through a winter CSA and local markets.

Tune in to hear how Sam navigates permafrost and water access as well as the unique challenges and rewards of farming in a cold climate.

• From Physics to Farming: What led Sam to leave engineering for agriculture? [1:27]
• Alaskan Soil Challenges: What has Sam learned about permafrost and soil conditions? [7:50]
• Storage Solutions: How does Offbeet Farm design its facilities to optimize crop preservation? [22:02]
• Carrot Longevity: What allows carrots to remain fresh for so long in storage? [27:07]
• Pest Control Strategies: How does Sam manage vermin on the farm? [30:27]
• Writing Beyond the Root Cellar: What inspired Sam to write his book, and what’s inside? [37:17]

Don’t miss Sam’s insights into farming in one of the most extreme climates in the U.S. and his innovative approach to creating a sustainable, hand-powered farm that feeds the Fairbanks community year-round.

About the Guest:

Sam Knapp hails from northern Wisconsin but now lives and farms in Fairbanks, Alaska. After earning his chops working for others in Sweden, Alaska, and Wisconsin, Sam ran a part-time farm in the UP of Michigan for three years before moving to Alaska and building Offbeet Farm from the ground up. Offbeet Farm is a 1-acre veggie farm focus entirely on storage crops and wintertime sales, selling primarily through a winter-CSA but also some winter markets and wholesale.

Connect with Sam Knapp:

• Website: Offbeet Farm
• Facebook: Like on Facebook
• Book: Beyond the Root Cellar

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Harvest Hosts!

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How can collaborative farming efforts transform the CSA experience for farmers and customers alike?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by first-generation farmers Lyndsey Mulherin of Whistlepig Farm and Joe Redden of Black Fox Farm. Although they operate separate farm businesses, Lyndsey and Joe share land in Boise, Idaho, where they have combined efforts on a collaborative CSA, invested in shared infrastructure, and manage joint perennial crops. 

Tune in as they share their unique approach to working together while maintaining distinct farm identities.

Episode Highlights:

• Farm Focus: What differentiates Whistlepig Farm from Black Fox Farm? [2:30]
• Boise's Climate: How does the Idaho climate impact their farming operations? [8:44]
• Customer Base: Who are their primary CSA customers? [16:25]
• Coping with Intense Summer Heat: Which crops thrive better in Boise's extreme weather? [22:35]
• Joint CSA Management: How do they collaborate on decisions for the CSA program? [27:27]
• Tips for New Farmers: What advice do Joe and Lyndsey offer to those starting out? [38:20]

Lyndsey Mulherin runs Whistlepig Farm, focusing on mixed vegetables, while Joe Redden operates Black Fox Farm with an emphasis on crop diversity. Both farms share a commitment to sustainable, community-oriented practices and have successfully integrated a collaborative CSA model to meet their community's needs.

Connect with Lyndsey Mulherin and Joe Redden:

• Website: Dry Creek Growers CSA 
• Instagram: Whistlepig Farm (Lyndsey) and Black Fox Farm (Joe)

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

It may feel early, but spring garden planning season is just around the corner! At The Farm on Central, pre-order your favorite varieties now to ensure they’re ready when planting season arrives.

Explore over a dozen new options this year—including willows, elderberries, blackberries, garlic, and turmeric, with even more added daily! Cuttings ship in February, while rooted plants arrive in mid-spring.

👉🏼 PRE-ORDER NOW!

Get a jump on your dream garden and secure your spring selections now at shop.FarmonCentral.com.

How can traditional organic practices create healthier soils and better-tasting blueberries?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael sits down with Hugh Kent of King Grove Organic Farm in Florida. Alongside his wife, Lisa, he grows certified organic blueberries using an innovative, sustainable growing system. Recently, they’ve shifted from wholesale to direct retail sales, inspired by their experience with buyers and a belief in the potential of direct sales for farmers.

Hugh discusses this plus the benefits of real organic practices, and the challenges they’ve faced, from labor management to irrigation. Tune in to hear about their journey to bring truly organic blueberries to your table and the lessons learned along the way.

• Location and Scale: Where is King Grove Organic Farm situated, and how big is it? [1:02]
• Vinegar as a Herbicide: How does Hugh use vinegar for weed control and soil health? [10:48]
• Labor Challenges: How do they manage labor needs during peak harvest season? [22:01]
• Switch to Retail Sales: Why did King Grove shift from wholesale to direct retail? [30:15]
• Real Organic Certification: What role does Real Organic certification play in their marketing strategy? [37:49]
• Navigating Irrigation Needs: How does King Grove manage irrigation across their 20-acre blueberry field? [45:27]
• Consumer Trends: How has the shift to online grocery shopping impacted their sales? [52:10]

Don’t miss this episode as Hugh Kent shares how King Grove Organic Farm is transforming organic blueberry production with a shift from wholesale to direct retail sales!

Hugh Kent is the owner of King Grove Organic Farm in Eustis, Florida. Alongside his wife, Lisa, Hugh grows certified organic blueberries using regenerative practices that enhance soil health and sustainability. The farm is known for its commitment to true organic principles and has recently made the leap from wholesale to direct retail sales, focusing on quality and customer engagement.

Connect with King Grove Organic Farm:

• Website: King Grove Organic Farm
• Instagram: Follow @KingGroveOrganic
• Facebook: Like King Grove Organic Farm

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our sponsor, Farm on Central!

It’s time to start planning for your spring garden! Farm on Central offers a wide selection of pre-order options so you can secure your favorite varieties early, from willows and elderberries to blackberries, garlic, and turmeric. Place your pre-order now at shop.FarmonCentral.com and get ready for planting season!

How can drip irrigation help farmers conserve water and improve crop health?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael chats with Anthony Tasselli, the Technical Sales Manager for Toro Ag. With over ten years of experience in irrigation system design and project management, Anthony brings a wealth of knowledge on drip irrigation systems, including the use of filters, valves, and automation products. He is dedicated to helping farmers increase efficiency and reduce water use through sustainable irrigation practices.

Tune in as Anthony shares his insights into the benefits of micro irrigation, the latest innovations in automation, and practical advice for tackling common issues like salt buildup in irrigation systems.

Episode Highlights:

• Irrigation Beginnings: What inspired Anthony to pursue a career in irrigation? [1:02]
• Micro Irrigation Basics: What is micro irrigation, and how can it benefit farmers? [7:16]
• California's Drip Irrigation: What portion of California's agriculture relies on drip irrigation? [12:36]
• Automation Advances: How has Toro innovated in irrigation automation? [17:18]
• Addressing Salt Buildup: What tips does Anthony have for managing salt buildup? [21:53]
• Future of Irrigation: What are the newest developments in sustainable irrigation? [27:58]
• Understanding SDI: What is subsurface drip irrigation (SDI), and why is it important? [33:25]

Don’t miss this episode as Anthony Tasselli dives into the world of drip irrigation and shares strategies for more efficient water management on the farm.

About the Guest: Anthony Tasselli is the Technical Sales Manager at Toro Ag, where he provides essential support to farmers and dealers for drip irrigation solutions. With a background in system design and technical support, Anthony is passionate about empowering farmers with sustainable irrigation practices. When he's not working, Anthony enjoys outdoor adventures with his family in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Connect with Toro Ag:

• Website: Toro Ag
• Instagram: Follow on Instagram
• Facebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

It may feel early, but spring garden planning season is just around the corner! At The Farm on Central, pre-order your favorite varieties now to ensure they’re ready when planting season arrives.

Explore over a dozen new options this year—including willows, elderberries, blackberries, garlic, and turmeric, with even more added daily! Cuttings ship in February, while rooted plants arrive in mid-spring.

Get a jump on your dream garden and secure your spring selections now at shop.FarmonCentral.com.

What are the biggest obstacles clam farmers face in sustaining their operations after severe storms?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Michael Presley Bobbitt, a part-time clam farmer and novelist from Cedar Key, Florida. Alongside his creative career, Michael is dedicated to protecting Cedar Key’s estuary and the local clam farming industry, especially after recent hurricanes caused millions of dollars in losses for Florida clam farmers.

Tune in as Michael shares his journey of balancing a creative career with clam farming, his passion for preserving Cedar Key’s unique ecosystem, and how clam farming supports both the economy and the environment.

Episode Highlights:

• Hurricane Impact: How did Hurricane Helene affect Cedar Key and local clam farms? [0:59]
• Clam Farming 101: What’s involved in clam farming, and why is Cedar Key ideal for it? [2:30]
• Clam Lifecycle: How do clams grow, and what’s unique about their farming process? [5:56]
• Challenges in Clam Farming: What threats do climate change and competing states pose? [12:29]
• Cedar Key Community: What’s the culture like in this resilient, tight-knit coastal town? [25:20]

Don't miss this episode with Michael Bobbitt as he dives into the unique culture of Cedar Key and his mission to protect fragile estuaries.

About the Guest:

Michael Presley Bobbitt is a novelist, playwright, and part-time clam farmer whose work often spotlights the unique landscapes of Florida. With novels, plays, and environmental advocacy, Michael’s commitment to Cedar Key and its estuary drives his passion for protecting this ecosystem. In his downtime, you’ll find him fishing or caring for his clam beds around Cedar Key, Florida.

Connect with Michael Bobbitt:

• Website: MichaelPresleyBobbitt.com
• Instagram: @MichaelPresleyBobbitt
• Short Film: Rise of the Clambassador

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

It may feel early, but spring garden planning season is just around the corner! At The Farm on Central, pre-order your favorite varieties now to ensure they’re ready when planting season arrives.

Explore over a dozen new options this year—including willows, elderberries, blackberries, garlic, and turmeric, with even more added daily! Cuttings ship in February, while rooted plants arrive in mid-spring.

Get a jump on your dream garden and secure your spring selections now at shop.FarmonCentral.com.

How can a community come together to restore its local food system after a devastating storm?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Alyson Wade of The Farm Connection, a plant nursery and garden center in Marshall, North Carolina. Alyson co-founded WNC Grassroots Media in response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene, which left much of Western North Carolina’s farming community in need of support. Through WNC Grassroots Media, Alyson and her team are working to uplift local farmers and the regional food system through impactful storytelling and humanitarian projects.

Tune in as Alyson discusses the aftermath of the storm, the critical importance of community solidarity, and the ongoing efforts to rebuild the local food system.

Episode Highlights:

Storm Impact: How badly did Marshall, NC get impacted by Hurricane Helene’s rains? [1:16] Toxic Aftermath: What were the impacts of substances other than water? [5:51] Relief Efforts: What is being done to assist those affected by Hurricane Helene? [11:06] Navigating Wreckage: How are people getting around logistically through the wreckage? [16:01] Supporting Recovery: What can listeners do to help support the recovery efforts? [18:40] Community Spirit: What is the community like, and how are they banding together? [23:04]

Don’t miss Alyson’s insights on the power of collaboration and the ongoing needs of the farmers and communities affected by Hurricane Helene.

About the Guest:

Alyson Wade is the CEO and Founder of The Farm Connection, an edible, medicinal, and native plant nursery in Marshall, NC. She co-founded WNC Grassroots Media to restore and uplift the Western North Carolina region after Hurricane Helene. Through her work, Alyson focuses on raising awareness and providing support to farmers and local food systems through impactful media and humanitarian projects.

Connect with The Farm Connection: 

Website: The Farm Connection Instagram: @thefarmconnectionmadco Facebook: The Farm Connection LLC

Connect with WNC Grassroots Media: Website: WNC Grassroots Media Instagram: @wncgrassrootsmediaGoFundMe: Support Farmers and Grassroots Food System Organizing in WNC

How can first-generation farmers successfully build a thriving community-supported agriculture (CSA) program?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Emma Jagoz, founder and owner of Moon Valley Farm in Woodsboro, Maryland. Moon Valley Farm operates on 70 acres, growing specialty and staple vegetables and herbs for a year-round CSA program and restaurants in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia.

Tune in as Emma shares her inspiring journey from a beginner farmer to the leader of a successful organic farm dedicated to supporting local food systems and schools.

Episode Highlights:

• Farming Journey: How did Emma get started in farming? [0:58]
• Market Growth: How did the market for Moon Valley’s products grow? [6:48]
• Food Hub Development: What was the process of building out the food hub? [16:50]
• Production Systems: What is their production system like? [24:49]
• Organic Certification: What went into the decision to go certified organic? [28:58]
• Future Plans: What is in store for the future of Moon Valley Farm? [35:45]

Don’t miss Emma’s valuable insights on the importance of community connection, team dynamics, and sustainable farming practices.

About the Guest:

Emma Jagoz is a first-generation organic vegetable farmer and food hub owner who started Moon Valley Farm in 2012 on borrowed suburban land while raising two young children. Today, the farm serves a customizable, year-round CSA program, over 100 restaurants, and multiple school districts across Maryland. Emma is also the Organic seat for the Maryland Agriculture Commission and was awarded 'Farmer of the Foodshed' in 2024 by Future Harvest. Her mission focuses on responsible land stewardship and improving regional food security through regenerative agriculture.

Connect with Moon Valley Farm:

Website: Moon Valley FarmInstagram: Follow on InstagramFacebook: Like on Facebook

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

How can farmers balance idealism with practicality when starting a farm from scratch?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Noah East, a farmer, writer, and educator from Wild East Farm in Western North Carolina. Along with his wife, Lyric, Noah has dedicated his efforts to building a farm focused on perennial production, agroforestry, and fostering community food security. 

Tune in as Noah shares the challenges and successes of accessing land, establishing their farm, and diversifying their enterprises with a mix of vegetables, broilers, and agroforestry systems. 

Important Update: After recording this episode, Noah’s farm was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, causing significant damage. We’re including a GoFundMe link below to support food relief efforts through the Mother Earth Food Hub, an Asheville-based farm-to-home delivery service working with local farmers to provide fresh food to the community in the aftermath of the hurricane.

Episode Highlights:

Farming Roots: What led Noah to farming? [0:59] Land Access: How did Wild East Farm secure its unique lease? [9:29] Blueberry Production: How is the farm managing its blueberries? [15:48] Revenue Streams: Where does Wild East Farm generate income? [20:40] Markets: Where are Wild East’s products sold? [23:37] Vegetable Management: How does the farm handle its vegetable production? [29:59] Advice for New Farmers: How to balance idealism with practicality [34:43]

Don’t miss Noah’s valuable advice for new farmers on designing a sustainable farm and balancing big dreams with real-world demands.

Support Wild East Farm & Local Farmers:

Donate to support hurricane recovery and local food relief efforts: [GoFundMe]

About the Guest: Noah East is a farmer, writer, and educator based at Wild East Farm in Western North Carolina. Passionate about community and the environment, Noah's work is centered on building relationships and fostering resilience through sustainable agriculture. His farm focuses on agroforestry, perennial production, and providing fresh food to local communities.

Connect with Wild East Farm: Website: Wild East Farm Instagram: Follow on Instagram YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

How can strawberry growers improve soil health and prevent crop diseases for more sustainable production?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by J.R. Odom, a seasoned strawberry grower from Goldsboro, North Carolina, and the president of the North Carolina Strawberry Association. J.R. has been growing strawberries since 2010 and is committed to improving his farm's soil health using practices such as crop rotation, compost application, and planting summer cover crops. He shares his insights on disease prevention and what’s coming up for the industry.

Tune in to learn more about how J.R. and other growers are innovating to improve strawberry production while safeguarding their crops against emerging threats!

Episode Highlights:

Crop Diseases: What upcoming disease could potentially be damaging to crops? [1:08] Prevention: Recommended methods for disease prevention [6:44] Cutoffs vs. Plugs: What are the differences between these two planting methods? [9:42] Challenges: How dieback on the plugs presents challenges to growers [14:39] Conference: Details on the upcoming NC Strawberry Association conference [20:03]

 Resources mentioned in the episode: Takeaways for Cutoff Strawberry Plantings from NC State Extension Recommendations for Fall season treatments for Neo-P

About the Guest:

J.R. Odom has been growing strawberries in Goldsboro, NC, since 2010. As president of the North Carolina Strawberry Association, J.R. focuses on improving soil health and crop resilience through innovative farming practices like crop rotation, compost application, and the use of summer cover crops. He is dedicated to supporting strawberry growers across the state and advocating for sustainable farming techniques.

Connect with JR Odom or the NC Strawberry Association:

• Website: Odom Farming Company
• Strawberry Website: NC Strawberry Association
• Instagram: Follow on Instagram

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!

How can urban farming not only feed a community but also foster connection and education?

In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Anna Withers and Kevin Prather from Springfield Community Gardens. Together, they dive into the organization’s mission to promote healthy local food access and support aspiring farmers. Learn how Springfield Community Gardens has grown to manage 16 gardens across the city, offering educational programs and farmer incubator opportunities, all while practicing regenerative agriculture and fostering community involvement.

Tune in to discover how urban farming initiatives like Springfield Community Gardens are shaping the future of local food systems and inspiring others to connect with the land!

Episode Highlights:

• Beginnings: Anna and Kevin’s journey into farming [1:03]
• Mission: What Springfield Community Gardens is all about [4:36]
• Education: Focus of their farmer incubator program [13:18]
• Season Extension: Tunnels and hoop houses on the farm [18:04]
• Land Access: Leasing agreement for state hospital land [20:44]
• Soil Health: Fertility programs and resolving lead issues [25:55]
• Support: Where SCG’s funding and support come from [30:46]
• Youth Program: How SCG engages the next generation [33:51]

About the Guest:

Anna Withers is the Farmer and Resource Development Manager for Springfield Community Gardens. She uses her business degree with a concentration in Nonprofit Management to help farmers grow and expand their businesses, while also teaching youth about their roles in the food system. Anna is a proud consumer of local food and aims to make it easier for everyday people to access farm fresh goods.

After starting as an apprentice at a small farm in Springfield, MO, Kevin Prather has spent the last decade immersed in regenerative ag at multiple farms, teaching what he's learned along the way. He's the founding farmer of Amanda Belle's Hospital Farm, which partners with our city's largest hospital system. Now SCG's farmer educator, he runs the on-site internship program with funding from the EPA environmental justice grant.

Connect with Springfield Community Gardens:

• Website: Springfield Community Gardens
• Facebook: Like on Facebook
• Instagram: Follow on Instagram
• YouTube: Subscribe on YouTube

The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!

Here at the Farm on Central, garlic is one of our staple overwinter crops. We use it in everything—garlic salt, infused honey, fire cider—you name it! But now, you can grow your very own garlic, straight from our farm to your garden.

We offer seed garlic with three amazing varieties: Music, German White, and German Red. These varieties thrive in zones 2-7, and with a little extra care, they'll do great in zones 8-9, too. Plus, we’ve got free shipping on our 1lb, 3lb bags, 10 lbs and discounts for bigger orders.

Get your seed garlic today at shop.farmoncentral.com and get ready for your own fresh garlic harvest next summer! Happy planting!