Andrew Ofstehage

Andrew Ofstehage, an economic and environmental anthropologist, dives into the world of transnational farming in Brazil. He discusses how U.S. Midwest farmers flock to Brazil, turning traditional practices into industrial models, raising questions about sustainability. The challenges these farmers face include navigating local cultures and regulatory hurdles while managing 'flexible farms.' Ofstehage highlights the tensions between profit-driven practices and community connections, revealing fascinating insights into the dynamics of globalized agriculture.

Andrew Ofstehage, an economic and environmental anthropologist, dives into the intriguing world of transnational farming in Brazil's Cerrado. He shares the motivations behind Midwestern U.S. farmers relocating for industrial soy production, revealing the stark environmental consequences of their practices. The discussion touches on the cultural challenges they face, their reliance on technology over traditional farming, and the complex dynamics of competition and community among farmers. Ofstehage also examines the broader implications of soy culture, particularly in relation to climate change and food narratives.