307. Navigating Storms and Stewardship: Michael Bobbitt on Cedar Key’s Clam Farming
Release Date: 10/29/2024
330. Pesticide-Free and Purpose-Filled: Taylor Bemis on Running Tumbleweed Farm
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
What does it look like to farm beyond organic on a small scale with big impact? On this episode, Michael is joined by Taylor Bemis, co-owner of Tumbleweed Farm in Oregon’s Hood River Valley. Since 2012, Taylor and his wife, cookbook author Andrea Bemis, have been growing vibrant, pesticide-free produce on just over two acres. Together, they run a 160-member CSA and sell at the Hood River Farmers Market. With a strong focus on educating their community about the nutritional power of fresh, local food, Taylor and Andrea go beyond organic standards—often labeling their vegetables with the...
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329. Collaboration Over Competition: How Two Farmers Built Urban Roots Collective
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
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328. From Grass-Fed to Wood-Fired: Pizza Farmer Maren Beard of Luna Valley Farm
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
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327. Urban Farming for Food Justice: Devon Wilson on Sunlight Gardens
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How can urban farming transform communities and increase access to fresh, local food? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Devon Wilson, founder and farmer of Sunlight Gardens, a two-acre organic urban farm in Battle Creek, Michigan. Devon started Sunlight Gardens to increase access to fresh, local food and inspire the next generation of farmers through their fresh corner store, community events, and Farm Squad youth program. Devon’s passion for food justice stems from personal experience—witnessing multiple family members struggle with diet-related illnesses....
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326. Reinventing Beef: Justin Pettit on Santa Carota’s Carrot-Finished Cattle
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How does carrot-finished beef set a new standard for flavor and sustainability? In this episode, we’re joined by Justin Pettit, third-generation rancher and co-founder of Santa Carota Beef—the only grass-fed, carrot-finished beef on the market. By finishing cattle on a 95% carrot-based diet, Justin has crafted a nutrient-rich, flavorful beef that’s earned praise from top chefs like Wolfgang Puck and Gordon Ramsay. Tune in to hear how Justin is redefining high-quality beef with a focus on sustainability, nutrition, and exceptional taste! Episode Highlights: Ranching Roots: How did...
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325. Farming on One Acre: Sara Krohn & Sam Odin on Village Farmstead
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How can small-scale farmers maximize productivity while staying true to their values? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Sara Krohn and Sam Odin, owners of Village Farmstead, a USDA-Certified Organic farm in Oak Creek, Wisconsin. Farming on just one acre, they prioritize human-scale farming, soil health, and a deep connection to their community. Sara and Sam are also part of a 14-acre housing cooperative, where their farm integrates with a broader vision of sustainable living. They rely on hand tools, minimal soil disturbance, and permanent raised beds to create...
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324. Exploring Agroforestry: Ben Raskin and Andy Dibben on Silvohorticulture
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How can farmers integrate trees into vegetable production to enhance yield, biodiversity, and resilience? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Ben Raskin and Andy Dibben, co-authors of Silvohorticulture, the first detailed guide on agroforestry for vegetable farms. With extensive experience in commercial horticulture and agroforestry design, Ben and Andy provide practical insights into how farmers can successfully integrate trees into their growing systems. Tune in to learn how agroforestry can optimize farm productivity, improve soil health, manage pests, and...
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323. Digitizing Farm Operations: Tracey Wiedmeyer on Gripp's Role in Ag Tech
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
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322. Cultivating Local Food Systems: Trisha Bates on Urban Farming and Community
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How can farmers and chefs work together to strengthen local food systems? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, we’re joined by Trisha Bates, founder of Urban American Farmer in Austin, Texas. Trisha’s background in urban planning and the restaurant industry has shaped her mission to bridge the gap between farms, chefs, and consumers. Tune in to hear how her work in foodscaping, event planning, and farm education has helped to create a more connected and resilient local food system. Episode Highlights: Farming Beginnings: How did Trisha get into farming? [1:36]...
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321. Josh Galt on Transforming Agriculture with Black Soldier Flies
The Thriving Farmer Podcast
How can insects transform agriculture and waste management? In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael welcomes Josh Galt, a global nomad turned regenerative agriculture innovator. Now based in Mexico, Josh is pioneering the use of black soldier fly larvae for waste management, animal feed, and organic fertilizer. He also collaborates with smallholder farmers to develop consumer products like coffee, chocolate, and tropical fruits grown in BSFL-enriched soil. Tune in to hear how black soldier flies are transforming agriculture by turning waste into a sustainable resource for soil...
info_outlineWhat are the biggest obstacles clam farmers face in sustaining their operations after severe storms?
In this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael interviews Michael Presley Bobbitt, a part-time clam farmer and novelist from Cedar Key, Florida. Alongside his creative career, Michael is dedicated to protecting Cedar Key’s estuary and the local clam farming industry, especially after recent hurricanes caused millions of dollars in losses for Florida clam farmers.
Tune in as Michael shares his journey of balancing a creative career with clam farming, his passion for preserving Cedar Key’s unique ecosystem, and how clam farming supports both the economy and the environment.
Episode Highlights:
- Hurricane Impact: How did Hurricane Helene affect Cedar Key and local clam farms? [0:59]
- Clam Farming 101: What’s involved in clam farming, and why is Cedar Key ideal for it? [2:30]
- Clam Lifecycle: How do clams grow, and what’s unique about their farming process? [5:56]
- Challenges in Clam Farming: What threats do climate change and competing states pose? [12:29]
- Cedar Key Community: What’s the culture like in this resilient, tight-knit coastal town? [25:20]
Don't miss this episode with Michael Bobbitt as he dives into the unique culture of Cedar Key and his mission to protect fragile estuaries.
About the Guest:
Michael Presley Bobbitt is a novelist, playwright, and part-time clam farmer whose work often spotlights the unique landscapes of Florida. With novels, plays, and environmental advocacy, Michael’s commitment to Cedar Key and its estuary drives his passion for protecting this ecosystem. In his downtime, you’ll find him fishing or caring for his clam beds around Cedar Key, Florida.
Connect with Michael Bobbitt:
- Website: MichaelPresleyBobbitt.com
- Instagram: @MichaelPresleyBobbitt
- Short Film: Rise of the Clambassador
The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor, Farm on Central!
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