Recycling Roots: Theron Smith’s Journey from Metal to Mulch in the Plasticulture Revolution
Release Date: 10/20/2025
Plastic Waste to Soil Wealth: A Microbial Makeover with Sam Baker
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In this episode of Mulch Matters, we sit down with Sam Baker, CEO of Wriggle Brew, for a compelling conversation that bridges soil science, sustainability, and the future of plastic waste management. What began as a quest to develop organic fertilizers using earthworms evolved into a groundbreaking exploration of how larval microbes can digest plastic - offering a novel, biologically driven solution to one of the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges. Sam shares the origin story of his work, from his background in chemistry and economics to the moment a fishing trip with his...
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Recycling Roots: Theron Smith’s Journey from Metal to Mulch in the Plasticulture Revolution
Mulch Matters
This podcast episode from Mulch Matters features an in-depth conversation with Theron Smith, co-owner of Flipping Iron—a California-based recycling company that has evolved from metal recovery to becoming a key player in agricultural plastic recycling. The episode traces Theron’s personal and professional journey, beginning with his grandfather’s metal recycling business and expanding into the complex world of plasticulture, including mulch film, fumigation film, and drip tape. Theron shares insights into the challenges of recycling agricultural plastics, the evolution of Flipping...
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From Wood Chips to Mulch: A Conversation on Lignocellulose Film with Aidan Williams
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In this episode we’re diving into a type of mulch you may not have heard much about—lignocellulose film (LCF). Joining me is Aidan Williams, who has been researching this bio-based biodegradable mulch made from renewable woody biomass. Aidan shares her journey into agroecology, how LCF is produced, and why it could be a promising alternative to plastic and paper-based mulches. We also explore results from her greenhouse raspberry trials, insights on soil degradation experiments, and even consumer perspectives on biodegradable mulches. If you’re curious about sustainable...
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Beyond Plastic: Dr. Shuresh Ghimire on Extension Partnerships, IPM, Hemp, and Smarter Mulching Solutions
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In this episode of Mulch Matters, we welcome Dr. Shuresh Ghimire, Associate Extension Educator and IPM Specialist at the University of Connecticut. From his roots on a small farm in Nepal to leading integrated pest management programs in the USA, Shuresh shares his journey, expertise, and insights into sustainable agriculture. The conversation dives into: Why integrated pest management (IPM) is critical for balancing environmental, economic, and social priorities. The real-world benefits and challenges of using biodegradable mulches (BDMs) vs. polyethylene...
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History and Future of Sustainable Plasticulture in CA with Jazmine Mejia-Muñoz
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In this episode of Mulch Matters, we speak with Jazmine Mejia-Muñoz, Water Quality Program Manager at the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation, about the intersection of agriculture, conservation, and plastic use in California’s iconic Monterey Bay region. Together, we explore the deep-rooted history of plasticulture, the evolving role of biodegradable mulches (BDMs), and what it takes to transition toward more sustainable practices in high-value cropping systems like strawberries. Jazmine shares real-world insights from grower collaborations, lessons from field trials, and...
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From Washington to China: Lessons in Strawberry Production and Sustainable Ag with Dr. Carol Miles
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In this episode of Mulch Matters, we are joined by Dr. Carol Miles from Washington State University, for a compelling conversation about her recent trip to China to attend the International Strawberry Symposium. Our discussion offers a fascinating window into the contrasts and connections between Chinese and U.S. agricultural practices, particularly around strawberry production and plastic mulch use. Carol reflects on the incredible technological leap she observed in Chinese greenhouses, where high-tech, hydroponic tabletop systems are now used in showcase facilities. But she also shares her...
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Engineering a Cleaner Future: Recycling Plasticulture with Andros Engineering
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In this episode of Mulch Matters, we sit down with Ben Andros, President of Andros Engineering, to explore how innovative machinery and thoughtful design are transforming the way we manage plasticulture in agriculture. From recycling drip tape and mulch film to collaborating with researchers on sustainable solutions, Ben shares the journey of tackling one of ag's biggest waste challenges—with humor, heart, and high-tech tools. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at ag-tech innovation, real-world challenges in plastic recycling, and why teamwork across sectors is key to building a cleaner...
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Digging Deep: Microplastics, Soil Health, and Sustainable Agriculture with Nayab Gull
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In this insightful episode of our podcast, we welcome Nayab Gull, a Ph.D. student at Washington State University, to discuss the complex and critical topic of microplastics in agricultural soils. From her unexpected journey into agriculture to her cutting-edge research on microplastics and soil health, Nayab shares both personal stories and professional insights. We explore how microplastics impact soil structure, water retention, microbial life, and even plant root development. Nayab also sheds light on the potential risks microplastics pose to food safety and human health, emphasizing the...
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Transforming Plastic Waste: Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Agriculture with Kevin DeWhitt
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In this episode we have an engaging conversation with Kevin DeWhitt, the founder of PDO Technology, about the pressing issue of plastic waste management in agriculture. As the world grapples with plastic pollution, innovative solutions are needed to tackle this environmental challenge. Kevin brings his expertise in pyrolysis, a cutting-edge process that breaks down plastic mulch waste and repurposes it into valuable resources. This process not only reduces landfill dependency but also supports a circular economy, promoting sustainability in agricultural practices. During our discussion,...
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Plastic Pollution in Agriculture: Challenges, Solutions, and the Global Impact with Dr. Karen Mancl
Mulch Matters
In this episode of Mulch Matters, we welcome Dr. Karen Mancl, a professor at Ohio State University and a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center. Dr. Mancl shares her expertise in plastic pollution, sustainability, and international environmental policy, offering a deep dive into how plastic is used in agriculture—particularly in China and the United States—and the environmental consequences that follow. We explore the evolution of plastic mulch use, the growing concern over microplastics in soil, and innovative strategies to mitigate plastic waste in farming. Dr. Mancl also discusses the role...
info_outlineThis podcast episode from Mulch Matters features an in-depth conversation with Theron Smith, co-owner of Flipping Iron—a California-based recycling company that has evolved from metal recovery to becoming a key player in agricultural plastic recycling. The episode traces Theron’s personal and professional journey, beginning with his grandfather’s metal recycling business and expanding into the complex world of plasticulture, including mulch film, fumigation film, and drip tape.
Theron shares insights into the challenges of recycling agricultural plastics, the evolution of Flipping Iron’s operations, and the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. He discusses the company’s expansion across multiple states, the role of family in the business, and the strategic shift toward plastics despite initial resistance. The conversation also explores the limitations of domestic recycling infrastructure, the reliance on international export markets.
Throughout the episode, Theron emphasizes the value of collaboration over competition, highlighting partnerships with growers, engineers, and institutions like Washington State University and the Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. He also reflects on the broader implications of plastic use, sustainability, and the need for innovative solutions—whether through mechanical recycling, advanced technologies, or alternative applications like construction materials and fuel sources.
This episode is both a personal narrative and a technical exploration of the recycling landscape, offering listeners a nuanced understanding of the plasticulture industry, its environmental stakes, and the entrepreneurial spirit driving change.
This work is supported by Specialty Crops Research Initiative Award 2022-51181-38325 from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed on this podcast are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/