In This Podcast: Greg chats with Dr. Jeff Tomberlin about the remarkable benefits of black soldier flies in recycling organic waste. Jeff explains the global distribution and industrialization of black soldier flies, their life cycle, and their ability to convert waste into valuable resources like protein for animal feed and fertilizer. The conversation highlights community and individual efforts in utilizing black soldier flies for sustainability and reducing food waste, emphasizing the potential for large-scale impact through local actions. Jeff also offers practical advice for beginners interested in starting their own black soldier fly bins and stresses the importance of patience and community involvement.

Greg interviews Elizabeth Bruckner, the accidental suburban homesteader and author of ‘The Homesteader Mindset.’ Elizabeth shares her journey of cultivating resilience through intentional living, influenced by her family’s World War II experiences and her education in acupuncture and oriental medicine.

Melissa Booth, a microbiologist and creator of the course ‘The Hidden Powers of Microbes’ speaks about her journey from Oklahoma’s semi-arid deserts to her passion for research. Initially interested in becoming a physician, her path changed after engaging in research on HIV/AIDS. She eventually pursued a master’s in microbiology, leading her to study marine microbes and their responses to environmental cues.

Host Greg Peterson chats with Sam Cooke, founder and CEO of CC Cattle Company, a nonprofit cattle farm aimed at combating food insecurity in Wisconsin. Sam shares his journey from a small dairy farm in northern Wisconsin to his roles in the US Navy and as a firefighter, which led him to start the farm. He discusses the challenges and successes in building the nonprofit, emphasizing its dual focus on raising pasture-fed beef cattle for food banks and offering equine therapy for veterans and first responders. Sam also talks about future plans to expand the farm and incorporate a food truck to distribute meals more regularly. Throughout the conversation, Sam underscores the importance of community support, mental health, and sustainable farming practices.

Greg reconnects with Michael Judd, an expert in permaculture and sustainable living. They discuss the illusive fruit the Paw Paw, and Michael’s involvement in creating Maryland’s first natural green burial site.

Greg interviews Linley Dixon, a small-scale organic vegetable farmer in southwest Colorado. Linley specializes in soil-grown greenhouse tomatoes and has been farming since 2010. She shares her path to farming, including the challenges faced in finding suitable farmland with water rights, and the creation of Adobe House Farm.