The Market Gardener Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Greg and Kate from Harmony Farm in Brockville, Ontario, to explore their journey of starting a multi-enterprise farm in their 50’s! They discuss how a desire for purpose and environmental responsibility led them to transition from their previous careers into managing market gardens, livestock, and maple syrup production on a 250-acre property. Kate, a psychiatrist, shares her insights on lifestyle and culinary medicine, emphasizing how ultra-processed foods drive chronic inflammation and why farmers play a vital role in public health. The group also dives into practical strategies for farm viability, including selling wo...

In this episode, we sit down with Noah East, co-owner of Wild East Farm and founder of Small Scale Revival, to explore how human-scale design, efficient systems, and clear values create a thriving small farm. We dive into Noah’s journey from managing a high-volume 8 acre vegetable farm to co-founding a mixed enterprise farm in North Carolina, examining how human-scale farming benefits both personal well-being and soil health. Noah explains how they integrate market gardening, agroforestry, and rotational livestock without overworking or scaling beyond ideal capacity. We explore their practical strategies for small-farm viability, including balancing wholesale with retail ou...

In this episode, we sit down with Abey Scaglione, author of Radical Farm and farmer at Ruckle Heritage Farm in Salt Spring Island, BC, to explore the ecological, nutritional, and ethical case for well-sourced animal foods in our food system. We dive deep into Abey’s journey from being a low-fat vegetarian and Pilates instructor in Los Angeles to managing a holistic livestock farm in British Columbia, examining why so many former vegans evolve into supporting well-managed animal husbandry once they understand real food systems. Abey reflects on the emotional complexity of raising and harvesting livestock; she deconstructs common en...

In this episode, we sit down with Stefan Sobkowiak, permaculture educator and renowned Youtuber at The Permaculture Orchard, to explore how to design and manage holistic, diverse agricultural ecosystems. We dive deep into his guiding philosophy that “nothing beats easy,” his background in wildlife biology, and the catastrophic tent caterpillar outbreak that transformed his conventional apple orchard into a biodiversity lab. Stefan deconstructs Bill Mollison’s three phases of abundance and introduces his innovative “grocery store” design concept, explaining how grouping companion trees by harvest date completely revolutionizes the pick-your-own farm experience. The conversation highlights the powerful ecological synergies of combini...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reveals the ultimate secret weapon for healthy soil and high-yield market gardening: cover crops and green manures. While beginner market gardens often focus strictly on profitable cash crops, long-term farm sustainability and profitability depend on embedding cover crop systems directly into seasonal crop rotations.

Jean-Martin explains how standard cover crops eliminate erosion by protecting bare winter soils, while legume-rich green manures supercharge on-farm fertility by injecting nitrogen and building massive subsoil root networks. He breaks down his practical, low-machinery techniques for terminating cover crops on permanent beds and you’ll discover ho...

In this episode, we sit down with Elspeth Hay, Cape Cod journalist and author of Feed Us with Trees, to explore how we can solve our collective separation from nature through the power of tree crops. We dive deep into her journey from learning the “no farms, no food” mantra in childhood to the paradigm-shifting realization that our surrounding forests are actually overflowing with staple foods like acorns. Elspeth deconstructs historical narratives like the term "hunter-gatherer" and the concept of "enclosure," arguing that modern industrial farming models were built upon a violent legacy of privatizing land and erasing highly mana...

In this episode, we sit down with Sam Knapp, an Alaskan grower and author of Beyond the Root Cellar, to explore what it means to solve the biggest gaping hole in the local food system: winter food security. We dive deep into his journey from chemical engineering and a formative Fulbright grant in Sweden to establishing a successful, low-overhead storage crop farm in Fairbanks, Alaska. We highlight how Sam built a highly viable business on 1 acre by focusing on low-maintenance root crops like parsnips and utilizing efficient, manual systems instead of heavy machinery. Sam breaks down the structural design...

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Caroline Hahm, chef at Di An DI restaurant in Brooklyn NY, to explore the beautiful intersection of professional kitchens and sustainable farming. We dive into her journey from leaving Cornell to working in fashion, and explore how the documentary Food Inc. and her grandmother’s garden entirely reshaped her worldview. Caroline shares her tumultuous journey of learning her craft from scratch, discovering farming along the way, and how she ultimately ended up as a culinary leader. She breaks down the economic realities of sourcing ethically for Asian cuisine, paying farmers full pr...

In this episode, Jean-Martin and Chris sit down with Jessica Paige of Adama Farm to discuss her journey from university student to first-generation regenerative farmer and influencer. Jessica explores the importance of "romanticizing" farm life, explaining how finding beauty in the intensive labor makes the work more enjoyable and sustainable, and how sharing this beauty online can inspire new young people to get into farming. She reflects on her formative apprenticeship at Frith Farm, her spiritual awakening through nature, and the empowerment of leading an all-female crew. The conversation covers the practicalities of starting a farm, from land acquisition...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier celebrates his 48th birthday by reflecting on his 24-year journey as a market gardener. He revisits the foundational influence of Eliot Coleman’s The New Organic Grower, emphasizing how the "agricultural craftsmanship" of small-scale farming offers a meaningful alternative to industrial food production. The core of the episode outlines three guiding "North Stars" for the movement: reclaiming the integrity of the organic label, strengthening local food sheds to keep money in the community, and embracing seasonality as a social value. Jean-Martin argues that eating in-season from local greenhouses and root cellars creates a "go...

In this episode, Jean-Martin and Chris sit down with chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Chuck Hughes to explore his journey from the intense, rebellious kitchen culture of his early career to a more grounded life focused on family, purpose, and simplicity. He reflects on the evolution of food culture, emphasizing a return to local ingredients, authenticity, and respect for farmers. Chuck also opens up about the realities of restaurant life, leadership, and overcoming alcohol addiction, offering a candid look behind the scenes of the industry. Through his experiences in television and Indigenous communities across Canada, he highlights the deep...

In this episode, Jean-Martin and Chris sit down with Linley Dixon, co-director of the Real Organic Project and a farmer/soil scientist, for a deep conversation about the future of organic agriculture. Linley shares how corporate interests, hydroponic systems, and regulatory loopholes are reshaping the meaning of “organic,” and why many farmers are working to protect the integrity of the label. The discussion explores the tensions between small farms and industrial-scale organic production, the economic realities farmers face, and why grassroots action may be the most powerful path forward. Along the way, the conversation dives into soil health, common myth...

In this episode, we sit down with Tara Couture, author of Radiance of the Ordinary, to explore how her farming journey has reshaped her understanding of life, death, and what it means to live with reverence. From raising and harvesting animals with deep care to questioning industrial food systems, Tara speaks about the sacred responsibility of participating directly in the cycles that feed us. Rather than speaking of “healing,” she embraces the coexistence of joy and sorrow, and the quiet hope found in small, radiant moments. We also discuss writing as a clarifying practice, the limits of social media, and...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the emotional and ethical dimensions of small-scale farming, especially in the quieter months after a demanding season. He shares why the growing season often requires farmers to simply push through challenges, and why the off-season is the right time to revisit what was hard, both practically and emotionally. Drawing from personal experience, he explores burnout, resilience, and the importance of rest, reflection, and continuous improvement. The episode then turns toward the ethics of local agriculture and the role of human-scale, decentralized food systems in shaping a more resilient future. Jean-Martin closes...

In this episode, we sit down with Francisco Vio of ‘Huerto Cuatro Estaciones’ farm in Chile, to explore the wild world of living and farming in remote Patagonia. From early mentors in Ecuador to building an organic farm at the edge of the world, Francisco shares how beauty, land stewardship, and community have shaped his choices. The conversation weaves together farming, conservation, and the influence of figures like Doug Tompkins who helped create some of the world’s largest protected wilderness areas. Francisco reflects on how small-scale market gardening fits in to the vision and context of national parks and he...

In this episode, we sit down with Woody DeLauder, founder of Rootbound Farms, a small but highly productive suburban farm based in Southern Maryland. Woody shares how he transformed his suburban lawn into a thriving, human-powered market garden that generates over $100K annually, with the help of his secret best-seller: handmade soap, all while navigating zoning restrictions, skeptical neighbors, and the realities of farming in a residential neighborhood. 

We explore Woody’s journey from being a fourth and fifth grade teacher to becoming a full-time grower and entrepreneur, and how growing food in his front yard became a c...

In this episode, we sit down with Yuzuru Kajiya, a famous farmer from Japan who supplies top-tier, three-star Michelin restaurants across Japan and Asia. Yuzuru shares his journey from touring elite French restaurants in his youth to starting his own farm focused on growing unique, exotic, and high-quality produce, a contrast to traditional Japanese farming. We explore Japanese culture and how values like craftsmanship and perfection translate into his farm and the restaurants he works with, and how Japan’s uniquely low land cost is failing to attract new young farmers. Yuzuru also reflects on how his Canadian education in...

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Adams, New Jersey grower and founder of Eastbound Acres, to explore what it really means to be a small-scale farmer in the most densely populated state in the United States. We dive deep into the challenges of farming in a landscape dominated by suburban sprawl, fast-food chains, and skyrocketing land prices, and we explore Chris’s mission to rebuild local food awareness in a place where agriculture has all but disappeared from daily life. Chris breaks down how he built multiple farms over 13 years; why sales, not production, remain the biggest ba...

In this episode, we sit down with Julia Shanks, consultant, teacher, and author of The Farmer’s Office, to talk about the crucial role of business acumen in small-scale farming. We dive deep into financial management practices, routine bookkeeping, using QuickBooks, and how to properly deal with debt as a small farm business owner. Julia stresses that farmers are entrepreneurs who must understand their numbers, especially profit, not just revenue, to create sustainable, fulfilling farms. You’ll get loads of actionable advice, relatable stories, and examples of small farm owners who are financially successful and happy. 

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In this heartfelt solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the idea that small-scale farming is the true counterculture of today; a colorful, creative, and deeply rooted way of life that stands in contrast to mainstream consumerism and the obsession with wealth. He explores three key pillars: culture, diversity, and resiliency, highlighting how small farms foster biodiversity, preserve tradition, and offer an authentic alternative to homogenized food systems. Jean-Martin shares his personal journey and observations from farms around the world, emphasizing that these local, human-scale farms are not only feeding communities but also nurturing ecosystems. This is an uplifting, passionate...

In this episode, we speak with Richard Perkins, farmer & educator at Ridgedale Permaculture, and author of Regenerative Agriculture, about the deeper layers of farming, culture, and meaning. Richard shares the story behind his decision to open a historic restaurant, Sillegarden, in rural Sweden as a way to reconnect people to place, food, and each other. He reflects on the role of farmers as community builders, the dangers of seed oils and grain-based diets, and why he’s more interested in soil-building than buzzwords. The conversation dives into mentorship, the mental and emotional toll of farm life, and the joy of...

In this episode we sit down with Jaymie Thurler of Rutabaga Ranch, whose colorful “punk rock” style meets old-school farming roots and new motherhood. Jaymie shares her journey of taking over a “left for dead” property and turning it into a beautiful thriving market garden, right in the community where she and her husband grew up. She details how her farm's success is tied to key initiatives, including a self-serve farm stand that is open seven days a week and a woodchip boiler system that heats their greenhouses for early tomato production. Jaymie reflects on raising a baby on the farm...

In this episode, we speak with legendary organic farmer Eliot Coleman. Recorded live at the Canopy Retreat with an audience of growers, Eliot reflects on how processes—not products—hold the key to truly regenerative agriculture. He shares how his farm no longer uses external inputs and why growing your own organic matter through green manures is the path toward clean, self-sustaining fertility. Eliot recounts his early days learning from European farmers and agrarian elders, explains the science behind plant resilience and soil biology, and issues a cautionary critique of industrial compost, seaweed, and the co-opting of terms like “regene...

In this episode, we sit down with Angie Warner, farm manager at the Old Mill and an eighth-generation farmer. Angie shares her journey from working as a pastry chef in Montreal restaurants to growing specialty crops at the Old Mill, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and the lessons found in mistakes. She reflects on the unique challenges of farming for a restaurant’s tasting menu, explains how radicchio is “forced” to enhance its flavor, and opens up about what it means to be the eighth generation striving to preserve her family’s land. Driven by a deep respect for the...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the question: How do we scale small-scale farming? Fresh from the Canopy leadership retreat, he shares insights on building resilient, human-scale farms rooted in ecology and community. Highlighting the wisdom of guest speakers like Eliot Coleman and others, Jean-Martin critiques the industrial co-opting of terms like “organic” and “regenerative,” emphasizing instead the need to multiply small, autonomous farms that feed local communities. He calls for collective action, not through industrial reform, but by creating a global ecosystem of interconnected growers working toward a more vibrant and sustainable food system.

In this episode, we welcome David McMillan back to the show, co-founder of Montreal’s famed Joe Beef restaurant, and now winemaker in the countryside of Quebec. In this wide ranging conversation, we discuss the growing industry of locally made wines, farmland access, indigenous growing practices, David’s evolving diet, cooking advice, and what it means to support “true” local agriculture and business. David advocates for small, heartfelt, chef-owned restaurants, criticizing luxury excess and corporate influence. With Michelin arriving in Quebec, he warns against the loss of local food identity. His solution? A welcoming family restaurant with affordable meals, and news...

In this episode we sit down with Sara Dent, co-founder of Young Agrarians, a Canada-wide network supporting the next generation of ecological farmers. Sara shares the origin story of the movement, her early passion for farming, and the role photography and storytelling played in shaping the Young Agrarians brand. Together, they unpack the urgent need for farm renewal in Canada, address the systemic barriers to land access and funding, and explore creative solutions like land trusts, incubator farms, and micro-loans. Sara emphasizes the human dimension of farming, arguing that technology alone can’t save the food system. She also sp...

In this episode, we speak with Dave Chapman, co-founder of the Real Organic Project, about the political and ecological crossroads facing the organic food movement. Dave reflects on the industrial takeover of the USDA organic label and why he believes decentralization—not scaling—is key to meaningful change. The conversation explores the deep ties between soil health, human health, and corporate power, questioning whether collapse is necessary for real transformation. Dave also shares insights from past guests on climate, culture, and the true meaning of sustainability. The episode wraps with a rapid-fire Q&A, touching on books, bread, and the...

In this episode we speak with Kish Johnson from Advancing Eco Agriculture about how data-driven tools like SAP analysis and foliar sprays are transforming regenerative farming. Kish shares how farms are eliminating pests and diseases through optimized plant nutrition and improved photosynthesis. The conversation dives into the connection between soil biology, profitability, and nutrient density. Kish also addresses skepticism around ag “products” and offers a humble, science-based approach to farm improvement. The episode wraps with news of a research partnership between AEA and the Market Gardener Institute to adapt these tools for small-scale growers.

Spon...

In this episode, we sit down withChloé Roy, seasoned flower farmer, teacher at the Market Gardener Institute, and author of a new book on flower farming. She shares her journey from vegetable farming to building Floramama, a thriving flower farm, and the lessons learned along the way. Chloé discusses the business side of flower farming and sheds light on the hidden environmental and ethical costs of conventional flowers and why local flower farms are part of a growing movement.

Chloé also reflects on scaling back production, prioritizing work-life balance, and her dream of documenting a world tour of...

In this episode, we sit down with Doug and Kayleigh fromBreadseed Farm, who share their inspiring journey of leaving salaried farm management positions tostart their own one-acre, no-till, human-powered farmin Vermont. They open up about the challenges and rewards ofmaking the leap to farm ownership, including thefear of financial instability and the excitement ofbuilding something from the ground up.

We discuss the realities ofmaking a living as small-scale farmers, how they grew their farm to nearly$200K in revenue in just a few years, and the importance of creatingefficient systems to maximize productivity.

PLEASE make...

This week we chat with Dan Brisebois from Tourne-Sol Farm about the importance of seed saving for market gardeners. Dan shares his journey from agricultural engineering to co-founding a thriving worker co-op farm that balances vegetable production with a successful seed business. We explore the practicalities of growing your own seeds, debunk myths about cross-pollination, and discuss how seed saving can boost resilience and profitability. Dan also highlights the benefits of cooperative farming for work-life balance and introduces his new book, The Seed Farmer, a hands-on guide to seed production.

The Seed Farmer by...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier takes a deep dive into the question: Is it still realistic to start a small organic farm today? Addressing both aspiring and seasoned farmers, he explores the financial viability of small-scale farming, the challenges of land access, and the shifting landscape of local food systems. JM emphasizes that, despite obstacles, small farms remain economically viable and play a crucial role in strengthening local economies and food sovereignty. With a call for unity in the face of growing corporate influence and climate change challenges, this episode is a rallying cry for farmers to stay...

In this episode, we sit down with Akos Asare from Re.Planted Farm & Floral Studio, who shares her inspiring journey from running a custom wig business to becoming a suburban flower farmer. Akos reveals how the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to pivot and embrace farming as a response to global supply chain challenges and her quest for deeper fulfillment.

We discuss the challenges of transitioning into farming without an agricultural background, the importance of following your intuition, and the value of community connections in building a sustainable urban farm. Akos also highlights the innovative ways she has...

This week, we speak with Shane Harper, chef-turned-farmer who combines culinary expertise with innovative farming practices to bridge the gap between the farm and the table.

Shane shares his journey from running pastry kitchens in Toronto to becoming a grower for one of Canada's premier farm-to-table restaurants. He explores how his structured approach in fine dining kitchens informed his farming methods, focusing on efficiency, flavor, and the lifecycle of plants. We dive into his philosophy of creating self-sustaining systems on the farm, his insights on working with chefs to redefine "farm-to-table," and the importance of reconnecting people...

In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier dives into the evolving landscape of sustainable farming, exploring the differences and connections between organic, regenerative, and small-scale agriculture. He highlights the importance of maintaining organic certification to ensure transparency and accountability while addressing concerns about greenwashing in the regenerative movement. JM emphasizes the need for localized, decentralized farming systems rooted in healthy soils and human-scale operations, advocating for unity within the movement to combat the challenges posed by industrialized agriculture. 

If this episode inspires you to rethink the possibilities of small-scale farming, we invite you to take it a step f...

In this episode, we dive into the world of market gardening with Jodi Roebuck, a globally inspired farmer from New Zealand. Jodi shares his journey from surfing on volcanic coastlines to building a thriving farm from compact subsoil, emphasizing soil health, composting, and efficient farming techniques. Drawing on lessons from traveling the world and visiting diverse farms, he highlights the value of learning through hands-on experience and cross-disciplinary inspiration. We discuss the principles of bio-intensive farming, lean systems, and the art of balancing productivity with sustainability. This conversation explores the resilience, innovation, and passion it takes to create a...

In this episode, we explore the connection between natural wine and terroir-focused vegetables with our guest, Myrtha Zierock, a biodynamic vineyard manager turned small-scale vegetable farmer. Myrtha shares her journey of integrating diversified farming into a wine estate, emphasizing soil health, biodiversity, and the artistry of farming. Discover how vegetables can be celebrated with the same prestige as wine through concepts like tastings and storytelling. We also delve into the challenges of sustainable farming and the importance of embracing beauty and culture in agriculture.

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This week, we speak with Benjamin Fahrer, a permaculture designer and farmer, who combines ecological principles with innovative rooftop farm designs across cities in California.

Benjamin shares how his background in building and permaculture design shaped his vision for creating resilient food systems. We explore the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative practices in addressing both climate and social challenges. Benjamin highlights the value of fresh, nutrient-dense produce and the potential of urban agriculture to reconnect communities with truly healthy food.

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This week, we sit down with Alex Meizlish of Ecolibrium Farm, a market gardener from Seattle with a passion for building community through food. Alex shares his journey from studying science in university to teaching environmental education in the Pacific Northwest, and finally to becoming a small-scale farmer. 

We explore his experiences working with chefs, the challenges of creating a resilient organic farm, and his vision for connecting people to their food through memorable culinary experiences. The conversation touches on the importance of community, the artistry of sustainable farming, and the fulfillment of reconnecting with nature.