Regenerative Agriculture Podcast

Lana Shaw is the Research Manager at the South East Research Farm in Saskatchewan, Canada. She has been with the research farm since 2010, overseeing its transformation from a poorly funded facility into a center for innovative agricultural research. Lana holds a master's degree and has a background in government work related to agriculture.  Her work focuses on practical, applied experiments that benefit local farmers, with a particular interest in intercropping and companion cropping to improve soil health and agricultural sustainability. Lana comes from several generations of Canadian farmers, grounding her efforts in the long-term resilience and sustainability of farm communities. In this episode, Lana and John discuss the: Benefits and challenges of intercropping Innovative research to discover more efficient and effective farming methods Importance of specialty crop variety development to support farmers Inherent complexity in agricultural systems Adoption of new techniques and technologies by farmers Additional Resources To learn more about the work happening at the South East Research Farm, please visit: https://southeastresearchfarm.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  

In this episode, John speaks with his friend and colleague, David Miller, Director of Applied Agronomyat Advancing Eco Agriculture. Together, they discuss the essential knowledge and skills required to excel as an agronomist, especially within the regenerative agriculture space. David shares insights from his 15-year journey in agronomy, emphasizing the importance of big-picture thinking and a deep understanding of both plant physiology and soil biology. He talks about the balance between maintaining a high-level overview of agricultural systems while calling upon detailed, crop-specific knowledge in his work. This conversation highlights the need for agronomists to understand the timing of various applications relative to the specific growth stages of plants. David provides examples from pecan and cotton farming, illustrating how precision nutrient management and timing can significantly impact crop yield and health. Additional Resources To learn more about AEA, please visit: https://advancingecoag.com/ To learn more about AEA’s approach to agronomy, please watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8dShMf8VmrM About John KempfJohn 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  

Dr. Ted DeJong is a professor at the University of California where he has dedicated approximately 40 years to researching and teaching about stone fruits such as peaches, plums, and nectarines. His primary focus has been understanding the physiology of fruit trees, driven by his desire to probe into how plants function at a fundamental level. One of DeJong's significant contributions is his effort to simplify and clarify the complexities of fruit tree physiology. He’s observed that existing textbooks often describe the functions of trees in great detail but fail to explain how these functions occur. This gap led him to write his book, "Concepts for Understanding Fruit Trees," which distills these complex ideas into more straightforward principles.  In this episode, Ted and John discuss: Maximizing sunlight capture in orchard planting Challenges photosynthetic efficiency Impact of early ripening fruit varieties on yield How the genetic code of tree organs, such as flowers and fruits, dictates their growth and development Nitrogen fertilization practices in orchards How the day-night temperature cycle influences the activity of different parts of the tree The importance of pruning principles and the timing of fruit thinning  Additional Resources: To learn more about Ted and his research, please visit: https://dejong.ucdavis.edu/ To get a copy of his book, Concepts for Understanding Fruit Trees, please visit: https://www.amazon.com/Concepts-Understanding-Fruit-Trees-Concise/dp/1800620861 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  

In this episode, John delves into the critical role of mid-season foliar applications in boosting crop health and productivity. He talks about how timely and strategic foliar feeding can address nutrient deficiencies, enhance disease resistance, and improve overall plant vigor, leading to a more successful harvest. Key topics discussed: Understanding the optimal mid-season window for applying foliar nutrients to maximize benefits Identifying common mid-season nutrient deficiencies Exploring how foliar applications can bolster plant immunity and reduce the impact of diseases Highlighting best practices for effective foliar application to ensure maximum absorption and minimal waste Considering weather conditions and other environmental factors that influence the effectiveness of foliar feeding Additional Resources To learn more about AEA’s foliar products and programs, please visit: https://advancingecoag.com/ To watch a webinar about AEA’s products, please visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cItpuQDX_M4&t=22s 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

In this Ask Me Anything webinar from June, John answers pressing questions from the audience and shares his extensive research and firsthand experience to help farmers achieve healthier, more resilient crops. Discussion points include: Combating disease and pest pressure on a variety of crops Foliar application and management Nitrogen management Cover crops Sap analysis And much more Listen in to gain valuable insights and practical solutions from one of the leading experts in the field. Additional Resources: To watch more webinars from Advancing Eco Agriculture, please visit our YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@AdvancingEcoAgriculture To get updates on webinars, podcasts, events, and promotions from Advancing Eco Agriculture, sign up for our newsletter: https://advancingecoag.com/newsletter 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  

In this episode, John speaks with Ethan Darling, an agronomist with Advancing Eco Agriculture, who has extensive experience with sap analysis. They discuss the challenges of timely sample collection and shipping. Ethan shares his background and how his innovative techniques have streamlined the process for the AEA team in the Pacific Northwest. Ethan explains his journey from working in an agroecology lab to managing sap analysis processes at scale in Washington’s Yakima Valley. He details his initial methods of collecting, processing, and analyzing sap samples – Ethan has worked with up to 29,000 data points in a season! By improving efficiency and sharing knowledge with the wider AEA team, Ethan has increased their capacity to collect more samples effectively across multiple states. Additional Resources: To learn more about plant sap analysis, please visit: https://advancingecoag.com/plant-sap-analysis/ 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

Keith Morter, a dryland wheat farmer from Oregon, transitioned to regenerative agriculture management practices. Keith initially used standard, conventional methods like plowing and extensive chemical applications on his operation. Dissatisfied with the results, Keith shifted to direct seeding and eventually embraced regenerative practices. By drastically reducing nitrogen use and implementing holistic management techniques, Keith observed significant improvements in soil health, crop resilience, and pest resistance.  Despite challenges like low rainfall and high summer temperatures, his farm now thrives with healthier soils and sustainable crop yields, demonstrating the transformative potential of regenerative farming in challenging environments. In this episode, Keith and John discuss: Reduction of nitrogen use and its impact on soil health How breeding crops for specific traits can lead to nutritional and microbiome imbalances Soil cover and moisture retention strategies in dryland farming Challenges in finding markets for specialty crops Innovative seed treatment methods Micronutrient application and management How cover crops enhance biodiversity and ecosystem health Additional Resources: To learn more about Keith and his farm, please watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yX3Es7w6yNE& 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

In this Podcast Short, John delves into the topic of plant consciousness and intelligence. John talks about how plants are not just passive organisms, but possess significant cognitive abilities and responsiveness. Drawing inspiration from Stephen Herrod Buhner’s works, particularly "The Lost Language of Plants," John discusses how plants demonstrate informed decision-making capabilities and can react to human intentions. John also cites additional scientific findings that assert plants have sophisticated neural networks contained within their root systems, similar to human neural systems, which are capable of learning and memory. Additional Resources: Click here, to get your copy of “Plant Intelligence and the Imaginal Realm” by Stephen Harrod Buhner Click here, to get your copy of “The Lost Language of Plants: The Ecological Importance of Plant Medicines for Life” by Stephen Harrod Buhner Click here, to get your copy of “The Secret Teachings of Plants: The Intelligence of the Heart in the Direct Perception of Nature” by Stephen Harrod Buhner To read more about John’s other book recommendations, please visit: https://johnkempf.com/johns-recommended-reading-list/ 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

Rick Clark, a fifth-generation farmer from Williamsport, Indiana, is dedicated to enhancing soil health and achieving harmony with nature on his farm. He has pioneered a systematic approach to regenerative farming, proudly maintaining certification for all acres as organic through his regenerative stewardship with no tillage. Rick's practices focus on suppressing weeds, building soil health with cover crops, and prioritizing human health through organic, no-till farming methods. His goal is to establish a sustainable and profitable farming system that will endure for generations. Recently Rick Clark hosted an event where he shared insights into his farming practices, emphasizing soil health, and sustainability. Joining him were experts from Green Cover Seed, Dr. Christine Jones, and John Kempf. In this episode, Rick and John discuss: An overview of the event and the legacy of Dr. Christine Jones’ work How plants can share microbes and the importance of plant diversity The challenges of no-till organic farming and the potential need to incorporate tillage appropriately How mycorrhizal fungi and other soil microbes respond to tillage The impact of legumes on soil aggregation The benefits of incorporating fenugreek into pastures for livestock health The need for constant adaptation and learning Additional Resources: To learn more about Rick Clark, please visit: https://www.farmgreen.land/ To learn more about Dr. Chrstine Jones and her work, please visit: https://www.amazingcarbon.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

In this Short, John likens throwing a pool party to building soil microbial populations. Just like a successful pool party needs the right environment with food, drinks, and a crowd, building a healthy soil ecosystem requires appropriate soil conditions, nutrients, and a diverse microbial community. John emphasizes the importance of "keystone species" which are essential microbial species that attract and support a larger community, similar to inviting a few socially connected individuals to a party to attract more guests. He also highlights the role of plants in introducing a wide variety of microbes to the soil, advocating for diverse plant species to create robust and resilient soil ecosystems. Additional Resources: To learn more about Advancing Eco Agriculture and its products, please visit: https://advancingecoag.com/shop/ 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