Regenerative Agriculture Podcast

Jim Elizondo is a trailblazer in regenerative agriculture, supporting his accounting degree and agronomy engineering training with hands-on experience. He spent 20 years as a dairy nutritionist and managed a grazed dairy for 28 years, shaping his unique perspective on grazing management.  Jim’s work centers on revolutionizing grazing practices to enhance soil health and livestock productivity. He developed the Total Grazing program, which emphasizes non-selective grazing to prevent overgrazing and build long-lived soil carbon, drawing from his observations across climates from Florida to New Zealand. His insights challenge conventional wisdom, advocating for adaptive genetics in livestock and stockpiling pastures to boost soil fertility naturally. In this episode, John and Jim discuss: How Total Grazing minimizes overgrazing Why selective grazing leads to soil compaction and loss of long-lived soil carbon How stockpiling pastures for over six months shifts root exudates from sugary to fatty "Happy plants" are perennials that grow larger leaves without seeding Using adaptive genetics in livestock to improve land health, mimicking the role of extinct megafauna The importance between “recovery time” and “rest time” Additional Resources To learn more about Jim and his work, please visit: https://www.rwranching.com/To take Jim’s Total Grazing course, please visit: https://www.rwranching.com/enroll Jim’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realwealthranching/ Jim’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@realwealthranching About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Cate Havstad-Casad is a regenerative farmer, entrepreneur, and hatmaker. She and her husband operate Casad Family Farms in Central Oregon on 1,400 acres. Over 11 years, their operation evolved from a small organic vegetable farm to a diversified model focused on holistic grazing, grain production, and direct-to-consumer meat sales of beef and pork, driven by necessity after losing 80% of their irrigation water. Cate is also the founder of Havstad Hat Company and Range Revolution, where she handcrafts high-quality, custom felt hats and leather goods, using sustainable and traditional techniques, incorporating cattle hides from her farm to enhance economic viability, reduce waste and reconnect fashion consumers with agriculture. In this episode, John and Cate discuss: The importance of soil health and how it affects everything from food quality to climate resilience Challenges and rewards of running a small farm while balancing business and family life How losing 80% of irrigation water led to a focus on cattle and hog meat sales The need for localized food systems and how communities can take steps toward food sovereignty The work involved in creating a closed-loop farming system The importance of having multiple revenue streams The role of storytelling in agriculture and how sharing experiences can create a deeper connection to food production Additional Resources To learn more about Cate and her work, please visit the following:  Farm Website: www.casadfamilyfarms.comHat Company Website: https://havstadhatco.com/Cate’s Substack: https://rangerevolutions.substack.com/ Instagram: @havstadhatco and @casadfamilyfarms YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@casadfamilyfarms About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Matt Powers is a permaculture and soil health educator who began to explore organic and regenerative food systems after his wife’s cancer was diagnosed with cancer. He has written 24+ books, created courses, and taught thousands of people about the links between soil biology, plant health, and human well-being. With a background in music and education, Matt shifted to regenerative agriculture by gathering expert knowledge and conducting research. He has developed new microscopy techniques, debunked soil health myths, and helped farmers better understand microbiomes for sustainable agriculture. In this episode, John and Matt discuss:  The essential role of soil microbes in plant nutrition and human health How advanced microscopy techniques help verify soil biology, allowing farmers to make informed decisions about microbial inoculants and soil amendments Common misconceptions about composting and fertilizers that lead to poor soil health Mycorrhizal fungi and how they naturally enhance soil structure, plant growth, and drought resistance The ability of nematodes and other microbes to change their function and morphology in response to environmental conditions The connection between mindset, emotional health, and the gut microbiome, and how beliefs can influence overall well-being Additional Resources To learn more about Matt Powers and his work with the Permaculture Student and other resources, please visit: https://www.thepermaculturestudent.com/ To check out more of Matt’s videos, please visit his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Jg0zsgjNxjltlFjE0YvNw About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com

Justin Wylie is a fifth-generation farmer in California’s Central Valley, who manages pistachios and citrus with his family. His journey to regenerative agriculture began around 2012, driven by his growing skepticism of conventional systems. When his son was born in 2013 and faced severe health challenges, including respiratory issues and an autism diagnosis, Justin and his wife took a radical approach, eliminating toxins from their son’s diet. This led to dramatic health improvements and deepened Justin’s commitment to connecting human health with regenerative farming. Today, Justin leads sustainability initiatives within the American Pistachio Growers, working to create a roadmap for regenerative practices. He emphasizes data-driven approaches, reduced chemical inputs, and innovative research on how plant interactions affect crop yield. His work focuses on improving soil health while maintaining economic viability for farmers. In this episode John and Justin discuss:  How Justin’s son’s severe health challenges led him to explore regenerative agriculture Justin’s work with American Pistachio Growers to develop a regenerative farming roadmap Using real-time data and technology to improve farm efficiency Reducing input costs by $600-$800 per acre compared to conventional methods Emphasizing the importance of not reducing fertility inputs too quickly in the transition to regenerative systems​ Cover cropping with diverse species to help reduce soil salinity Using humic acids, seaweed extracts, and micro-nutrients rather than conventional nitrogen fertilizers Additional Resources To learn more about Justin Wylie, please visit: https://wyliefarming.com/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Joe Ailts is an agronomist and regenerative farmer in northwest Wisconsin with a deep passion for soil health and plant physiology. On his three-acre home farm, he grows competitive giant pumpkins, sweet corn, and market pumpkins using a regenerative approach that includes cover cropping with rye and Sudan grass. His experience in competitive pumpkin growing has fueled his interest in soil biology, leading him to experiment with mycorrhizal fungi inoculation and nutrient-dense crop production. Through his agronomy company, Ailts Agronomy, Joe works with row crop farmers to integrate soil health practices into their operations. He focuses on bridging the gap between regenerative and conventional farming, helping farmers implement biological inputs to enhance mycorrhizal colonization and crop performance. His research-backed approach has shown promising results, including significant yield responses in both corn following horseradish and in early-planted soybeans. In this episode, John and Joe discuss: How Joe’s research with BioCoat Gold has demonstrated a five-bushel average per acre yield increase in corn The surprising ability of mycorrhizal fungi to colonize fungicide-treated seeds The benefits of using a rye cover crop system for weed control and moisture retention A 17-bushel yield increase in corn following horseradish The advantages of early-planted soybeans in northern climates  The role of Sudan grass in crop rotations Additional Resources To learn more about Joe and Ailts Agronomy, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/joe.ailts.96 About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

After decades of working in conventional agriculture, Herb Young immersed himself in regenerative practices and planted a regenerative citrus orchard in Georgia. Herb has meticulously researched techniques to improve soil health and crop resilience and implemented them on his farm. His grove serves as a living research farm, where he conducts trials on soil microbiology, nutrient density, and pest management to push the boundaries of what’s possible in citrus production. Squeeze Citrus is Herb Young’s brand, where he grows and sells regeneratively farmed citrus, focusing on nutrient density and flavor. His rigorous approach to soil health and plant nutrition has led to fruit with significantly higher levels of flavonoids, carotenoids, and vitamins compared to conventionally grown citrus.  In this episode, John and Herb discuss:  Trialing microbial inoculants, compost applications, and pest management strategies How Herb’s citrus contains up to eight times more nutrients than conventionally grown fruit Marketing regenerative, nutrient-dense citrus direct-to-consumer How his trees thrive in a mulch-rich, biologically active environment while facing fewer disease pressures Advocating for a shift from a cheap food policy to a quality food policy Additional Resources To learn more about Herb Young and Squeeze Citrus and to order fruit (when in season), please visit: https://squeezecitrus.com/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Join us for an engaging webinar with John Kempf, renowned crop health consultant and founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture. In this Ask Me Anything format, growers had the opportunity to ask John their pressing questions about topics impacting their farm. Drawing from his extensive research and firsthand experience, John  provided insights and practical solutions to help growers achieve healthier, more resilient crops. In this episode, John and the audience discuss: How early-season sap analysis can help optimize fruit tree nutrition and quality How anion exchange capacity, selenium applications, and calcium can improve soil health Strategic use of nutrients like urea, magnesium sulfate, and trace minerals Intercropping, crop rotations, and soil microbiology Optimizing wheat protein, test weight, and soybean disease resistance increases productivity BioCoat Gold and SeedFlare and how they can improve seedling health and nutrient absorption Biological methods of controlling nematodes, slugs, and seedling diseases without harmful chemicals Evaluating weed control strategies minimizes soil microbiome disruption How farmer intuition and observation play a key role in successful regenerative practices. Synchronizing nutrient applications with plant growth Additional Resources To watch more John Kempf content on YouTube, please subscribe to AEA’s channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AdvancingEcoAgriculture About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Gavin Heywood is an Australian farmer and entrepreneur from New South Wales, whose family has worked on the same land for over 120 years. He runs a unique business, Serum Australis, which supplies animal blood for medical diagnostics, research, and commercial applications while managing his farm with holistic grazing practices. Gavin’s journey into the blood industry began with his background in laboratory work and an early attempt to sell goat serum, which led to his discovery of a larger market for horse blood. Alongside his business, he is committed to regenerative agriculture, using time-controlled grazing to restore degraded farmland, increase biodiversity, and improve soil health. In this episode, John and Gavin discuss: Running 250 horses in a single mob using time-controlled grazing Supplying blood and serum for hospitals, universities, and research labs under strict ethical guideline Gavin’s years of trial and error building a successful niche business Using horses as a tool for breaking up soil, regenerating pastures, and fostering tree growth Creating ecosystem improvements, including better water retention and increased plant diversity Gavin’s plans to expand his regenerative efforts by transitioning toward cattle and sheep grazing Additional Resources To learn more about Serum Australis and the work Gavin is doing, please visit: https://www.serumaustralis.com.au/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Bob Quinn is an organic farmer and researcher with a Ph.D. in plant biochemistry. Bob introduced and trademarked Kamut, an ancient wheat variety with anti-inflammatory properties. His research highlights its higher nutrient density and benefits for those with wheat sensitivities.  Bob grew up on a wheat farm in Montana, and transitioned to organic farming in the 1980s. After selling his businesses, he founded the Quinn Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to regenerative organic research and food as medicine. His work focuses on soil health, nutrient density, and the connection between food and human health. In this episode, John and Bob discuss: How nutrient-dense food can promote health and prevent disease How Kamut wheat has been shown to reduce inflammation compared to modern wheat The importance of revitalizing soil microbiomes to improve gut health Why strengthening regional food systems enhances food security and resilience The industrial food processing of vegetable oils, and their impact on health and nutrition Additional Resources To learn more about Bob Quinn and the work of the Quinn Institute, please visit: https://quinninstitute.org/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Jason Rowntree is a professor of Animal Science at Michigan State University, where he has spent the last 16 years studying regenerative grazing systems and their impact on soil health, ecosystems, and beef nutrient density. Jason currently leads a $19 million research project across 60 U.S. ranches, using remote sensing and on-ground monitoring to measure carbon sequestration, water cycles, and biodiversity. His goal is to create economic incentives that support farmers and ranchers in adopting regenerative practices. In this discussion, John and Jason discuss: How nutrient density in beef can be significantly altered in the last 30–60 days of finishing Variations in nutrient profiles, with some "grass-fed" samples showing high omega-6 levels comparable to grain-fed beef. Unique markers that can authenticate truly grass-fed beef, offering the potential for more transparent labeling. Carbon sequestration through managed grazing How planting diverse pasture mixes creates greater nutrient density in beef About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com