Tom Philpott

Tom Philpott, a Senior Research Associate at the Johns Hopkins Center for a Livable Future and author of 'Perilous Bounty,' dives into the evolving landscape of food policy. He discusses the challenges and importance of food journalism in the current political climate, highlighting the impact of consolidation in agriculture as a threat to democracy. Philpott critiques industrial farming practices and their socio-economic consequences, while also emphasizing the need for mentoring future journalists to drive change in food systems.

Benji Jones, an environmental reporter at Vox, and Tom Philpott, a senior research associate at Johns Hopkins, dive into the alarming H5N1 avian flu outbreak affecting U.S. poultry. They discuss the drastic measures farmers are resorting to, as millions of birds perish. The conversation highlights the vulnerabilities of factory farming, particularly overcrowded conditions that worsen disease spread. They also emphasize the need for better farming practices and biosecurity measures to protect both the poultry industry and public health.

Tom Philpott, award winning journalist and author, returns to discuss the Farm Bill. The topics covered include the history and challenges of the food stamp and farm support coalition, proposed acts to protect smaller farmers, lack of funding for BIPOC farmers, supply chain issues, worker protection, rural development and broadband access. The podcast also explores the need to revamp the Farm Bill and reflects on age and term limits in Congress.