12 episodes
Hands in the Soil Hannah Keitel
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5.0 • 1 Rating
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Welcome to Hands in the Soil, the podcast that dives deep into all things food, farming, and our intricate connection to the planet. We’re shining the spotlight on all those who work closely with the Earth – from farmers and ranchers, backyard gardeners and forestry workers, to indigenous seed keepers, waterway protectors and more. Together, we'll be uprooting the unseen, and learning from stewards at the frontlines of creating solutions to the existential threats we face in the era of climate change, food scarcity, and exploitation of our finite natural resources.
New episodes every Tuesday!
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11. What Does Organic Certification Really Mean?
In today’s episode, we explore the concept of USDA Organic Certification. We often see the label at the grocery store, but what does it really say about the product being sold? And is it worth the extra cost?
Some of what we discuss includes…
The myth that organic farming means no use of pesticides
The relationship between organic food and non-GMOs
What kind of farming allows sewage sludge as fertilizer (and why it’s dangerous)
The difference between “100% organic,” “organic,” and “made with organic ingredients”
The critiques against the current standards of organic farming
… And more!
Connect with Hannah on Instagram: @hannahkeitel -
10. Top Takeaways From the First 9 Episodes
As we cross the threshold into double digit episodes, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the key takeaways from the last 9 guest episodes. Throughout these conversations, we’ve explored topics from the importance of cultivating a connection with the land we inhabit, to how technology can enhance our relationship with the Earth at large.
Other key takeaways include…
How community and food go hand-in-hand
Why every community should have a farm
The new wave of agriculture we’re experiencing
Rewriting the story of what it means to be a farmer
Why focusing on local doesn’t mean abandoning global
How to engage kids in the food system
… And more!
We have many more episodes coming your way that we’re so excited to share. Thank you so much for being here! -
09. How Our Connection to Land Heals Us with Leya Van Doren
On today’s episode, we’re joined by Leya Van Doren. Leya is a podcast host, writer, and maker of medicines.
Throughout our conversation, we explore the profound, healing aspects of working with the unseen mysteries of the Earth. Leya tells the story of how moving to Michigan was a catalyst for reconnecting her to her child-like wonder, and how building her relationship to nature revealed the magic that’s present in every moment. We also discuss the ways in which nature is a mirror, and new ways to look at the fear that is commonly experienced when stepping into unknown territory.
Tune in to learn more about:
Why we should be paying attention to the plants that naturally show up in our environment
Plants as a healing guide and ally to overcoming trauma
Cultivating a connection to your local ecosystem through foraging
Connecting with ancestors through exploring the plants that grew around them
Moving towards sourcing food locally as a way to connect with the land
The importance of doing careful research before consuming a plant you’ve never foraged before
… And so much more!
Resources Mentioned:
The Wild Swans fairytale: https://andersen.sdu.dk/vaerk/hersholt/TheWildSwans_e.html
Connect with Leya:
Follow Leya on Instagram: @leyavandoren
Follow the Creative Soul Podcast on Instagram: @thecreativesoulpodcast -
08. Growing a Tiny Farm with David Berning
On today’s episode, we’re joined by David Berning. David runs the Cardiff Tiny Farm, located in his hometown in Encinitas, CA.
In this conversation, we explore the concept of being in a reciprocal relationship with a piece of land, and the mindset shifts that help us avoid exploiting land for profit. We talk about the importance of community building as an investment into our future and the future of the planet. We also discuss his new company, RootSeller, which is an online platform that helps users easily discover local food in their community.
Tune in to learn more about:
The story of how David went from serving as a volunteer at the Tiny Farm to taking on a lead role
Navigating the complexities of growing a community farm
Being of service in the context of farming, and how to stay true to that mission
Learning the language of a piece of land, and what it means to listen
Finding the balance between idealism and practicalities
Food as a way to bring people back to what matters
Leveraging farm events as a latent income stream
Resources Mentioned:
Download the RootSeller App: https://www.rootseller.app/
Regenerative Business Education w/ Carol Sanford: https://carolsanfordinstitute.com/
Connect with David:
Follow David on Instagram: @project_sabi
Follow Cardiff Tiny Farm on Instagram: @1000tinyfarms
Follow RootSeller App on Instagram: @rootsellerapp -
07. Rare Edible and Medicinal Plants with Dennis Sharmahd
On today’s episode, we’re joined by Dennis Sharmahd, an Edible Landscaper, Herbalist, and Mycologist. Dennis grew up with rare fruits and gardens in Lemon Grove, California. He has been exploring Mexico and Brazil for rare fruits, herbs, and mushrooms.
In this conversation, Dennis walks us through his vast edible garden, and discusses why he focuses on rare varieties of plants at his farm in Escondido, CA. We explore the idea of endangered plants and foods, and the importance of incorporating native plants to support local ecological systems. We also talk about strategies and key tips for orchard care, from pruning to fertilizers.
Tune in to learn more about:
The concept of “edible parks,” and which fruit bearing plants are commonly used in traditional landscaping
Integrating permaculture principles in with edible gardens for a low-effort yield
Using biochar fertilizer along with worm castings and wood chips for orchards
Grafting as an approach for saving endangered varieties of plants
The parallel convergent evolution of plant species
… And so much more!
Connect with Dennis:
Reach out on Facebook messenger: https://www.facebook.com/dennis.sharmahd
Follow him on IG: @pronaturefreak
Resources Mentioned:
Terra Madre Gardens: https://www.terramadregardens.com/
The National Heirloom Expo, September 10-14: https://theheirloomexpo.com/ -
06. Holistic Land Management with Adam and Genevieve
On today’s episode, we’re joined by Adam & Genevieve of AG Homestead. They live in Durango on a 5 acre property, where they raise chickens, ducks and pigs. In addition to pasture raising animals, they work with the soil using a range of new and old practices to maximize soil health, product and production quality.
Throughout our conversation, we explore the difference between conventional confinement animal agriculture versus outdoor pasture raising. We talk about the rotational grazing system that AG Homestead has employed to contribute to the revitalization of the ecosystems on their property, and the many ways that farm animals can bring new life to the land.
Tune in to learn more about:
Pasture raised pork production, and how it differs from conventional pork
The necessity of getting comfortable with the cycles of life and death
The connection between martial arts and regenerative land management
Animal stockmanship best practices
The importance of not rushing things with farm animals
… And so much more!
Connect with Adam and Genevieve: Instagram: @ag_homestead