Sarah Langford, a barrister turned author, shares insights from her journey back to farming, highlighting the modern challenges farmers face, such as climate change and Brexit. She discusses her book 'Rooted,' revealing stories of a new wave of regenerative farmers embracing ecological practices. Joining her is Thomasina Miers, co-founder of Wahaca, who adds a culinary perspective on sustainability in food sourcing. Together, they explore the intersection of traditional farming and innovative practices, advocating for smarter, sustainable choices.
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Unexpected move to a farm
Sarah Langford's family unexpectedly moved to the countryside after her husband lost his job.
They took over the running of her in-laws' farm, which became her entry point into the world of farming.
insights INSIGHT
Shifting perceptions of farmers
Langford's family history revealed a shift in public perception of farmers, from heroes after the war to villains due to modern practices.
This generational change prompted her to explore new, regenerative farming methods.
The American Legacy of Land Theft and the Modern Movement for Black Land Ownership
Bria Baker
Bria Baker's "Rooted" explores the historical and ongoing issue of Black land ownership in the United States. The book details the significant land loss experienced by Black Americans over the past century, highlighting the resulting racial wealth gap. Baker connects this land dispossession to systemic racism and advocates for reparations as a crucial step towards racial and economic justice. The narrative incorporates Baker's family history as sixth-generation Black landowners, underscoring the personal and generational impact of land ownership. The book serves as a call to action, urging readers to engage in conversations about land ownership and its role in achieving true equity.
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Sarah Langford was a barrister, living and working in the city. But then she found herself moving to the countryside, back to an agricultural life she thought she had left behind. There she saw farmers dealing with problems very different from those faced by her grandfather, who had helped to feed a starving nation after the war. Beleaguered with the challenges of climate change, Brexit and falling incomes, these farmers faced accusations of ecological mismanagement from a hostile media and public. But, as Langford looked to them to teach her about the land, she also found a new generation of farmers on a path of regenerative change. That journey is now the topic of Langford's recent book, Rooted: Stories of Life, Land and a Farming Revolution. Joining her in conversation to discuss it is Thomasina Miers, the cook, writer, broadcaster and co-founder of the restaurant group Wahaca.
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