Dr. Shawn Baker Podcast Food in America - Farming, Transparency and Big Systems | Dr. Shawn Baker and Holly & John Arbuckle
Dec 7, 2025
Join John and Holly Arbuckle, a ninth-generation rancher and a former acupuncturist turned regenerative farming advocate, as they tackle the pressing issues in American agriculture. They delve into the complexities of food transparency, the impact of grass-based livestock on ecosystems, and the challenges of scaling sustainable farming. Learn about their innovative snack stick business, the importance of local versus national markets, and their commitment to transforming barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems. Their insights reveal the urgent need for change in how we approach farming and food production.
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Nine Generations Of Ranching
- John recounts his family ranching since 1732 after emigrating from Scotland.
- He and Holly are raising a tenth generation who may continue farming but have freedom to choose other paths.
Grass Farming As Core Strategy
- John defines their operation as a grass farm that exports its grass as meat.
- Focusing on healthy grass production creates margins and options for diversified revenue.
Scaling Required Outsourcing
- Holly explains they began manufacturing snack sticks via a co-manufacturer because USDA rules are complex.
- As demand grew they began buying meat from other farmers instead of supplying everything from their farm.
