With Bowl and Spoon

In this episode we delve into the intricacies of the meat industry with Ben Buchanan, a seasoned butcher with two decades of experience. Ben shares his insights into the challenges facing local and regional meat farmers and butchers, particularly in the shadow of Big Agriculture and factory farming practices.

Ben sheds light on the "Chickenification" phenomenon that has permeated the chicken and pork industries, driven by the influence of hedge funds and the relentless pursuit of profit. Despite the brief lessons learned during the pandemic, Ben laments the return to business as usual and emphasizes the importance of education in preserving the local meat industry.

Drawing from his own endeavors, Ben discusses his innovative solutions, including the development of a mobile processing unit, aptly named the "rig," and the establishment of a certified butcher training program in collaboration with Community Kitchen Pittsburgh. Through hands-on classes and public events, Ben and his team aim to empower individuals with the skills necessary to sustainably process and appreciate locally sourced meat.

For those passionate about supporting local agriculture and understanding the complexities of the meat industry, this episode offers a compelling exploration of sustainable practices and the pursuit of conscientious consumption. Tune in as we navigate the intersection of tradition, innovation, and ethical stewardship with Ben Buchanan's Unified Fields.

To learn more about Community Kitchen Pittsburgh and their initiatives, visit their website at https://www.ckpgh.org/.

In this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of Aeros Lillstrom and Chris Brittenburg, the cool kids of Who Cooks For You Farm, who have been a staple of Pittsburgh's farmers market scene since the early 2000s. With a remarkable selection of produce and an impressive market setup, they have become synonymous with quality and innovation in the local farming scene.

We explore the founders' meeting at the Pasa conference, the inception of the farm, and the dynamic journey through 14 seasons of triumphs and challenges. While immensely rewarding, farming is not without its unique set of trials. Aeros and Chris discuss the nuances of this solitary profession, shedding light on the personal and professional aspects that make farming a distinct way of life.

As Who Cooks For You embarks on its 15th season, the podcast unveils the latest chapter in their story. The farmers are now delving into the science behind their craft, examining the interplay between soil health and the growth of their produce. This scientific perspective not only adds depth to their understanding of farming but also highlights the intricate connection between soil health, plant vitality, and the overall well-being of the farmers themselves.

Why Listen? This episode of With Bowl and Spoon offers listeners a unique glimpse into the world of Who Cooks For You Farm, the pioneers who have not only shaped the local farming landscape but are also venturing into uncharted territories of scientific exploration. A must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of agriculture, community, and innovation.

Good bye 2023, you were a year. While you weren't the most exciting, you still contained plenty of good food and good friends!  Brett and I talk about the highlights from our travels, special occasions, and our own backyard.
Look for new episodes coming late January 2024!

Jo is a city girl from Minnesota who intentionally moved to Pittsburgh with friends to invest in the community. We talk about her free-range childhood, Minnesota foods, her time with the Pittsburgh Project and Ballfield Farms, and what's next for PFPC. Audio note:  We recorded this in early November on a gorgeous fall day outdoors, so you'll hear some vehicles and some birds.  After I got home, I got a series of texts from Jo telling me about other memories that she thought of after I left. I suggested she record them on her phone and send them to me, and I'd try to integrate them into the interview. Shortly after I received 4 audio files with several stories each, which I have integrated into the interview.  The clips Jo sent sounded different, so I added some background music to differentiate them.