Fresh Take is your roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in to get your Fresh Take.
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On Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs) – A Farmer’s Perspective
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29:19Daniel Miranda is Director of Sales at Legacy Greens, a microgreen farm located in Tallahassee, Florida. In this episode, Daniel joins us for a conversation about his experience completing two On Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs). Hear about: - Why Legacy Greens decided to request each OFRR - Participating in the Produce Safety Alliance Training - The…
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Las Auditorias de Inocuidad de Alimentos en la Finca: Las Lecciones que aprendimos de los agricultores
36:14
36:14
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36:14Billy Mitchell, experto en inocuidad de alimentos, habla con nosotros sobre las auditorías de inocuidad alimentaria y las preguntas más frecuentes que tienen los agricultores. Damos la bienvenida a Billy Mitchell, Coordinador de Capacitación de FSMA para la Unión Nacional de Agricultores, para una conversación sobre las preguntas que comúnmente esc…
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On Farm Readiness Reviews (OFRRs) – An Inspector’s Perspective
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31:48Kirby Quam, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Produce Safety Outreach Coordinator, speaks with us about the On Farm Readiness Review (OFRR) process for farmers. In this episode, hear about: - What is the On Farm Readiness Review - Who manages and participates in the On Farm Readiness Reviews in Florida - What farmers c…
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An Introduction to Preventive Controls for Human Consumption Rule
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30:56In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida, introduces the Preventive Controls for Human Consumption Rule and its connection to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HAACP). Learn about: - The history of Hazard Analysis and Critical …
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From Plate to Planet: Fostering Positive Food Relationships and Sustainable Living
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41:44In this episode we welcome Marina Chaparro, a nationally recognized bilingual nutrition and diabetes expert, to discuss the importance of building positive food relationships and sustainable living. In this episode, Marina shares her insights on raising adventurous eaters, creating supportive food environments, and adopting sustainable practices in…
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Farm Food Safety Audits: Lessons Learned from Farmers
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28:39
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28:39Billy Mitchell, food safety expert, talks with us about food safety audits and commonly asked questions from farmers. We welcome Billy Mitchell, FSMA Training Coordinator for the National Farmers Union, for a conversation about questions he commonly hears from farmers about food safety. Tune in to hear about: Why food safety certification has becom…
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Farming for a Better Tomorrow: What to Expect at the 2025 Organic Food & Farming Summit
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26:58The Organic Food and Farming Summit, taking place in April 8-9 at Florida A&M University, invites farmers and consumers to explore sustainable practices and innovations within the organic agriculture sphere. The event highlights networking opportunities, expert insights, and hands-on experiences to inspire positive change in local food systems. • I…
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Roots of Vizcaya: From Agriculture to Living Garden Legacy
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32:46Sheila Gutierrez from Vizcaya Museum and Gardens shares her journey of connecting mental health and community engagement through urban agriculture. The episode highlights how food sustains us socially and physically, emphasizing Vizcaya's unique role in preserving agricultural legacy and fostering sustainable practices for a healthier community. Sh…
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Unlocking the Power of Seed Saving: Transforming Food Systems and Empowering Communities
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34:02Join us for an enlightening conversation with Hillary Miller, a passionate educator and advocate for sustainable agriculture. Raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, Hillary shares her transformative journey into the world of seed saving, offering insights into how it can preserve biodiversity and empower communities by making food more accessible and a…
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Eating Fresh: The Nutritional Benefits of Sourcing Locally
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43:21Podcast Description: In this episode, we’re joined by Mandi Garcia, a Clinical Nutritionist, Master Health Coach, and Performance Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the allied health industry. Mandi’s passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey—her dog’s lymphoma diagnosis—which ignited her dedication to holistic eating a…
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Como Comprender las 7 normas del Acta de Modernización de Inocuidad de Alimentos (en ingles FSMA)
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36:17
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36:17La Dra. Michelle Danyluk Brinda información sobre las 7 reglas principals de FSMA que los agricultores deben conocer. La Dra. Michelle Danyluk aclara la relación entre FDA Y La Ley de Modernización de Inocuidad de Alimentos (FSMA), destacando la legislación propuesta que aún no ha sido finalizada y Brinda información sobre las 7 reglas principals d…
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Understanding 7 Major Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Rules
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31:42Dr. Michelle Danyluk, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at University of Florida, provides insight into 7 major FSMA rules that farmers need to know. Dr. Michelle Danyluk clarifies the relationship between the Food and Drug Administration and the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), highlights pr…
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Transitioning in the Farming World: A Journey of Resilience and Adaptability
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44:36Ever wonder how a love for gardening and a background in marketing can lead to a thriving sustainable farm? Join us as we chat with Jonathan Way, the visionary co-founder of Calusa Farms and CEO of Topiary Creations, who turned his passion into a movement supporting small farmers across America. Jonathan's journey is a testament to resilience and a…
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Building Resilient Farm Communities: Navigating Disaster Relief and Recovery
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51:14Join us for an enlightening episode of Fresh Take, offering invaluable insights into disaster relief and resilience within the farming community. Our special guests, Lisa Misch and Jaimie McGirt from RAFI, share their vast experience in guiding farmers through the challenges posed by natural disasters. From hurricanes to droughts, we discuss the es…
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Upcycling Agriculture: Transforming Food Waste into Sustainable Opportunities
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26:11In this episode, we sit down with Ali Cox, a visionary in agriculture and food ingredient marketing and the founder of Noble West, an award-winning consultancy that serves the entire agricultural ecosystem—from fresh produce to agTech. As a fifth-generation farmer, Ali returned to California’s Central Valley in 2007 with a mission: to provide world…
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From Chef to Urban Farmer: Mike Garcia's Journey to Sustainable Agriculture in Orlando
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48:45Curious how a chef champions urban farming? Meet Mike Garcia, who traded his chef’s knife for a garden trowel and founded Everoak Farm in Orlando, Florida. In this episode, we explore Mike's journey from culinary school to sustainable farming, where his expertise helps him provide fresh, local produce that exceeds customer expectations. Mike shares…
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From Kitchen to Cash: Mastering the Art of Cottage Food Business
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40:45Unlock the secrets to starting a successful home-based food business with expert insights from Jennifer Hagen, Extension Agent specializing in Family and Consumer Sciences from the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Jennifer’s inspiring journey from urban planning to guiding aspiring food entrepreneurs offers pract…
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Post-Harvest Water Use and Strategies to Mitigate Food Safety Risks on Your Farm
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24:47We welcome back Dr. Keith Schneider for a discussion on post-harvest water use. Dr. Schneider shares strategies to keep produce safe. Tune in to hear about: - Why harvest and postharvest water quality is important - How cross-contamination can occur - Which mitigation strategies are effective - The use of sanitizers and their role in growing safe p…
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Empowering Small Farmers: Strategies for Success in Southwest Florida
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35:35Join us as we talk with Jessica Riles, UF/IFAS Agriculture and Sustainable Food Systems agent in Collier County, and chair of the Southwest Florida Small Farmer Network. Jessica shares her transition from local government to supporting small farmers, discussing the importance of community support, relationship-building, and how the Southwest Florid…
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Building Trust in USDA Certified Organic: Strengthening Organic Enforcement (SOE)
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33:37Can you trust what’s on your plate? In this episode of Fresh Take, we explore the critical role of maintaining integrity in USDA-certified organic products. We're joined by Orsi Dézsi, Executive Director and CEO of OMRI, who shares insights on how OMRI ensures organic inputs meet stringent standards and fortifies consumer trust in the organic label…
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Transforming Communities: The Power and Potential of Farmers Markets with Catt Fields-White
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44:50Join us for an inspiring conversation with Catt Fields White, founder of Farmers Market Pros and co-host of the Tent Talk podcast, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of National Farmers Market Week. Discover Catt’s journey from establishing the thriving Little Italy Mercato in San Diego to her ongoing efforts to support new markets. We explore th…
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From Battlefield to Crop Field: Veterans Finding Purpose at Comfort Farms
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32:09
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32:09Can agriculture heal the invisible wounds of war? Join us as we talk with John Jackson, an Army Ranger with six tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, about his journey from enlistment after 9/11 to finding peace through farming. At Comfort Farms in Milledgeville, Georgia, John helps veterans cope with post-traumatic stress using farming as therapy. Discov…
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Unveiling the 'Dirty Dozen': Hidden Pesticides in Your Produce and How to Stay Safe
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36:33Are you aware of the hidden dangers lurking in your fruits and vegetables? Join us on Fresh Take for an eye-opening discussion with Juan Carlos Rodriguez, an Education and Outreach Specialist at Florida Organic Growers. We promise you’ll gain critical insights into the "Dirty Dozen," a list of produce most contaminated with pesticides, and understa…
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Brewing Change: The Impact of Fair Trade and Sustainable Coffee with Tripp Pomeroy
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53:39
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53:39Discover how your daily cup of coffee can transform lives and support the planet! In this podcast, we sit down with Tripp Pomeroy, co-owner and CEO of Sweetwater Organic Coffee. Tripp shares his journey from working with Latin American landscapers to championing fair trade practices in the coffee industry. Learn how Sweetwater's ethical approach be…
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Balancing Urban Development and Sustainable Agriculture: A Fresh Take with Hannah Wooten
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40:45In this episode we chat with Hannah Wooten, a UF IFAS extension agent from Orange County, Florida, about how urban development and sustainable agriculture intersect in local food systems. Hannah's journey from Valencia Community College to her work in horticulture and ethnobotany shows us the deep connection between plants and people. We learn abou…
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Revolutionizing Food Waste: Emily Grant on Sustainable Food Recovery Initiatives
38:12
38:12
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38:12Can food recovery revolutionize our approach to food waste and sustainability? Find out as we sit down with Emily Grant, Director of Florida Operations for foodrecovery.org, who shares her incredible journey from urban planning to leading food recovery efforts. Emily’s story is rooted in community engagement, from her hands-on work in a Sarasota co…
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Growing Together: SE TOPP's Farmer to Farmer Mentorship Program
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21:10Unlock the potential of organic farming in the Southeast with guidance from experts Amanda Rose Newton and Emily Deruelle of Florida Organic Growers. Our enlightening conversation peels back the layers of the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE-TOPP), and you'll gain invaluable insights into developing successful organic practic…
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Berry Good Living: Cultivating Organic Blueberries with Allison Acres
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33:38In this episode of Fresh Take, we welcome special guests Hank and Jessica from Allison Acres to discuss their journey into organic blueberry farming. Hank, a retired FBI agent, shares his inspiration for transitioning to farming, influenced by his background in law enforcement. Jessica, with a background in Environmental Science, talks about her st…
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Sizzling Stories of Sustainability: A Deep Dive into Seasonal Cooking and Local Agriculture
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51:47
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51:47Imagine your palate embarking on a voyage where every flavor tells a story of community, sustainability, and creativity. That's exactly the kind of sensory adventure you're in for as Jeffrey Schlissel, the cuisine virtuoso and barbecue 'Kingpin,' joins us at the table. With nicknames like 'Bacon Cartel,' you know this conversation is going to sizzl…
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Table Talk: Exploring Food Transparency and Traceability
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50:23Embark on a culinary journey with Hari Pulapaka, the force behind the Global Cooking School. Discover the importance of food transparency and traceability, where every bite tells a story. As a mathematician-turned-chef, Hari's passion for ingredients with a clear backstory has fostered collaborations between chefs and farmers, aiming for an honest …
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Harvesting Wisdom: Exploring ATTRA Programs
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37:36Discover the heartbeat of sustainable agriculture with Audrey Coldy from the National Center for Appropriate Technology, as she brings her rich farming heritage and knowledge to our latest conversation. Her passion for intertwining nature with history to promote food equity and environmental stewardship is nothing short of inspiring. As we navigate…
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Microbiology of Foodborne Pathogens and Their Effect on Food Safety
24:37
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24:37Summary: In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider joins Dr. Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a discussion on FSMA’s produce safety rule and microbiology concepts related to food safety. In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider discusses microbiology concepts that help farmers better understand how to produce food safely. Tune in to learn about: The Produce Safety…
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A Deep Dive into the 2024 Organic Food and Farming Summit!
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25:08Discover the transformative world of organic agriculture as Andi Emrich, programs manager of Florida Organic Growers, joins our host Lana Chehabeddine, in unraveling the wonders behind the upcoming Organic Food and Farming Summit April 18-19 in Tampa, FL! Andi, brings her unique expertise to the table, guiding us through the Summit's inception and …
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Protecting Farmlands, Sustaining Futures: The Greenbelt Law
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22:24In this podcast episode, Catherine Campbell, PhD, MPH, and Jesse Haskins delve into the impact of the Florida Greenbelt Law on farm property taxes. Catherine, an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, shares her expertise in community food systems, emphasizing research for health, sustainability, equity, and resilience. The discussion co…
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Local Bites Unite: Hylo Launch with Florida Local Food Network
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24:50
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24:50Lana and Andi invite Florida local food actors to join the Florida Local Food Network, and to get started by attending our virtual training event January 18th, "Platform Training & Kickoff!" Fresh Take host Lana Chehabeddine takes on the guest role to talk about the Florida Local Food Project, FOG’s USDA-funded initiative to connect local farmers w…
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Sustainability on the Rise: Eco-Friendly Baking Tips
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30:24Join Lana and Joy for a conversation about sustainable baking practices. Joy, a former pastry chef and current FOG Local Nutrition and Outreach Coordinator, introduces the concept of sustainable baking, emphasizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact, reducing waste, and supporting local communities. Practical tips include embracing s…
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Sowing Success: Certified Organic Farm Technician Training (COFT)
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28:24Dr. Javier Garces joins JC for a conversation about Certified Organic Farm Technician training (COFT), a comprehensive program designed to provide high school and post-secondary students with the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience they’ll need to enter the agricultural workforce. Dr. Garces is currently serving as a Professor and Program…
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Weed Management for Organic and Transitional Farmers
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31:43In this episode, JC and Dr. Carlene Chase explore some of the biggest challenges facing farmers, discuss the potential of organic farming practices to address these issues, and delve into science-based solutions, highlighting the benefits of cover crops. Dr. Chase is an associate professor at UF with a research focus on weed management, methyl brom…
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Wisdom of the Fields: Organic Transitioning Tips
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30:11FOG Board Vice President Logan Petrey joins us to discuss the benefits of organic farming practices and The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). Logan Petrey is the Ranch Manager for Grimmway Farms’ organic farm in North Florida, as well as serving as the National Organic Standard Board member. Join us to learn about SE-TOPP, a USDA pr…
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Navigating the Organic Certification Cost Share Program
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13:48Join us for a conversation with FOG’s own Andi Emrich about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program and how it helps current and future organic farmers. In this episode, we are spreading the word about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP). Discover how OCCSP offers financial support to organic farmers, assisting them in obtaini…
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Voices Behind the Smoke: Sugarcane Burning and the Impacts
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34:24Patrick Ferguson, Senior Organizing Representative for Sierra Club’s Stop Sugar Field Burning Campaign, joins us to discuss the environmental impact of pre-harvest sugar burning. Beginning in 2015, the Stop the Burn campaign focuses on the environmental and public health consequences of pre-harvest sugar field burning. We will explore the success o…
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Sowing Seeds of Collaboration: Empowering Food Systems Practitioners
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36:23Join us as we dive into the world of food systems and community development with Kim Hines and discover how strategic planning and innovative tools are shaping a more resilient future. Kim Hines is a Leadership Co-Chair of the North American Food Systems Network with an interest in following national trends in local and regional food systems empl…
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Creating an Oasis: Eco-Friendly Landscaping Ideas
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34:25Join us for an informative discussion with Tom Wichman, an expert on eco-friendly landscaping with nearly 50 years’ experience in the industry. A self-proclaimed plant nerd, Tom is currently the Assistant Director for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program and the statewide coordinator for the Green Industries Best Management Practices Program. T…
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Plate of Progress: The Florida Local Food Project
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28:07Join FOG’s own Lana Chehabeddine and Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a conversation about the Florida Local Food Project. We will delve into the Florida Local Food Project, a compelling initiative led by FOG, focused on enhancing local food systems across Florida. Through six key objectives, the project aims to bolster food security, sustainability, and …
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From Tank to Table: The Future of Farming with Aquaponics
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37:15Mike Campbell, founder and lead farmer of South Florida’s first commercial aquaponic farm Bare Roots Organics, joins us to talk about how aquaponics fits into his vision for the future of sustainable farming. Mike shares his journey and passion for building a sustainable world, driven by his background in film/television and love for nature and qua…
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Feeding the Revolution: Food Sovereignty in Action
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42:23Continue our conversation about food sovereignty with the University of South Florida’s Nicole Brand and Will Schanbacher. Nicole Brand is the Director of the Environmental Conservation Outreach, Research, and Education (ECORE) System at USF, overseeing the USF Forest Preserve, the USF Botanical Gardens and a geological park. Will Schanbacher is an…
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Feeding the Revolution: Food Sovereignty 101
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46:24Dell deChant joins us for a discussion about food sovereignty and its aim to challenge existing food structures and place power back into the people’s hands. Dell deChant is an Instructor at the University of South Florida, specializing in religion and contemporary cultures. deChant's current research focuses on Agrarianism in American popular cult…
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Seaweed: The Secret Sauce for Sustainable Agriculture
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27:53Join us today as Kabir Parker discusses everything you need to know about seaweed and its contribution to sustainable agriculture. Learn what makes seaweed, “The Secret Sauce”. Kabir Parker is a passionate ocean entrepreneur. Born in Greenwich, Connecticut and raised in New Delhi, India, he developed a vast knowledge of global oceanic issues. Kabir…
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Growing a Resilient Local Food System: The Story of Working Food
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37:52Join us today as Melissa Desa speaks with us about how the organization Working Food is involved in growing resilient local food systems. With over a decade of experience, Melissa Desa is a seed steward, artist, educator, and ecologist living in Gainesville, Florida. She is a co-founder of the non-profit Working Food based in Gainesville, Florida w…
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The Dirt on Nutrient and Weed Management: Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture
35:04
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35:04Monica Hampton, Ph.D, national and international agriculture consultant for TerraNutri, converses with Lana Chehabeddine on the topic of nutrient and weed management techniques. Monica Hampton, Ph.D., brings 20 years of research on agriculture and crop production. She serves on the board of trustees at the Compost Research and Education Foundation …
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