The Acres U.S.A. Podcast

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor sits down with David Stelzer, founder of Azure Standard, to hear the story behind one of the country’s largest organic food distribution networks.

David shares how his family’s journey into organic agriculture began in the 1960s after a dramatic change in diet helped restore his health—and how discovering what was being put on conventional seed pushed his father to leave chemical farming behind.

He takes us through the early days of Azure Standard, from delivering grain and flour in an old pickup...

In memory of Wendell Berry, Acres U.S.A. is opening our archives to share this special recording from the 2007 Acres U.S.A. conference in Louisville, Kentucky.
Rather than deliver a traditional speech, Berry chose to read The Requirement, a story about friendship, loss, obligation and what he called “our indispensable principle of neighborhood.”
Following the reading, Berry takes questions from the Acres U.S.A. audience in a wide-ranging conversation about farming, land ownership, community, marriage, raising children, local food systems and the future of agriculture.
Nearly two decades later, much of the conversation feel...

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor sits down with Keith Berns of Green Cover Seed to explore the powerful resources farmers already have available to them—and how regenerative management can turn those resources into real economic value.

Keith shares the story behind Green Cover Seed and the experiments that convinced him of the power of diverse cover crop mixes. From capturing more sunlight and cycling nitrogen to improving soil structure, infiltration, mineral availability, and biological activity, Keith explains his concept of the “Farmer’s Free Lunch”—seven resources that are freely available...

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor sits down with longtime organic and biodynamic farmer Jeff Poppen to get practical about how he has built a resilient vegetable-growing system over decades.

Jeff shares how healthy soil structure, generous applications of compost, cover crops, mineral management, careful crop rotation, and well-timed tillage allow him to conserve moisture and grow vegetables without irrigation. He explains his “dust mulch” approach to reducing evaporation, why he believes farmers should let microbes do as much of the tillage as possible, and the mistakes he made along the way—includ...

In this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Reginaldo Haslett-Marroquin shares the story behind his 63-acre Salvatierra Farm in Minnesota and the development of the Tree-Range System—a poultry-centered regenerative agroforestry model designed around collaboration, infrastructure, processing, and shared economic opportunity.

Reginaldo explains why he believes individual farmers often struggle to succeed on their own and how coordinated networks can provide the processing, distribution, financing, training, and market infrastructure that small and mid-sized farms need. He also dives into the practical realities of building a poultry-centered farm, including tree crops, forage, broilers, farm design, processing, an...

What if soil is far more than a growing medium? In this fascinating episode, legendary agronomist and regenerative agriculture pioneer Jerry Brunetti explores the idea that soil functions as a living superorganism—a vast, interconnected ecosystem driven by roots, microbes, fungi, water, minerals, and sunlight. Drawing from decades of work in agronomy, livestock management, and human health, Jerry paints a compelling big-picture view of how healthy soil is built and why it is essential for the future of agriculture.

Jerry explains the astonishing scale of root systems, the critical role of mycorrhizal fungi and glomalin in building so...

What does it really take to move agriculture forward? In this inspiring presentation from Eco-Ag 2021, renowned agroecologist Nicole Masters explores the mindset behind regenerative agriculture and why lasting transformation begins with people, not just practices.

Drawing from decades of experience working with farmers and ranchers around the world, Nicole shares practical strategies for overcoming resistance to change, communicating with skeptical neighbors, and creating the conditions for successful behavior change. She explains why resilience, curiosity, and a willingness to challenge old paradigms are just as important as soil biology and grazing management.

Whether you're a seasoned...

For more than 50 years, Ed Baumgartner has dedicated his life to breeding better corn—but his journey has taken him from conventional agriculture to the forefront of regenerative farming. In this episode, Ed shares the remarkable story behind Bass Hybrids, his family's deep roots in the seed industry, and why he chose to build a non-GMO breeding program in an industry dominated by multinational corporations.

Ed explains how decades of breeding for stronger root systems, drought resilience, nutrient efficiency, and natural pest tolerance have positioned his hybrids to thrive in regenerative systems—long before he even knew rege...

What happens when an innovative ranching model designed to rebuild local food systems attracts the attention of government regulators?

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor Henry sits down with Joel Hollingsworth of Smoke River Ranch to explore a story that goes far beyond one ranch. From overcoming Crohn's disease and building a regenerative cattle operation from scratch to creating a unique herdshare model that connects families directly to food production, Joel shares the vision behind one of the country's most innovative regenerative ranches.

But after a viral video thrust Smoke...

What separates successful regenerative farmers from everyone else? According to Luke Jones, it starts with mindset. In this thought-provoking presentation, Luke shares his journey from conventional ag retail to building a regenerative farming operation focused on profitability, resilience and stewardship. Rather than chasing every new practice, he encourages farmers to understand their own unique context, start small, and build systems that fit their land, finances and goals.

Along the way, Luke shares lessons from his own successes and failures—from cover crops and livestock integration to niche marketing opportunities and diversifying farm income. More than a discussion ab...

Bob Quinn has spent four decades challenging conventional agriculture—and proving that healthier soils produce healthier people. In this conversation, the fourth-generation Montana grain farmer, scientist, and founder of the Quinn Institute joins Taylor Henry to discuss the future of regenerative and organic agriculture, the connection between food and chronic disease, and why farmers should be recognized for growing food as medicine.

Bob shares the story of his family's transition from conventional wheat farming to organic production, the discovery of ancient grains like KAMUT® wheat, and the groundbreaking research showing how seed genetics, soil health, and farming pra...

Can regenerative agriculture help solve America's healthcare crisis? In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor Henry sits down with Erin Martin Hollinsworth, founder and executive director of FreshRx Oklahoma, a nationally recognized Food Is Medicine program connecting healthcare providers, regenerative farmers and patients through produce prescriptions.

Erin shares how FreshRx has invested more than $1 million into local farms while helping patients reverse chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes through nutrient-dense food and nutrition education. They discuss why soil health and human health are inseparable, how regenerative farmers can become a vital part of the...

What can modern farmers learn from the origins of biodynamic agriculture? In this presentation from the Eco-Ag Conference, Jeff Poppen—better known as the Barefoot Farmer—shares decades of hands-on farming experience while exploring the principles of Rudolf Steiner's agricultural teachings. From composting and livestock integration to soil biology, crop rotations, and farm self-sufficiency, Jeff explains how healthy soil creates healthy food. Blending practical wisdom, historical perspective, and plenty of humor, this conversation challenges conventional agriculture and offers timeless lessons for building resilient, regenerative farms that work in harmony with nature.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Toda...

What happens when a former corporate professional, journalist, and ballet dancer trades boardrooms for flower fields? In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor Henry sits down with Briana Bosch,  of Blossom and Branch Farm and author of The Regenerative Gardener’s Handbook.

Briana shares her journey from corporate America back to her family’s agricultural roots, building a successful flower farm while challenging conventional growing practices. The conversation explores regenerative gardening techniques, cover crops, soil health, water conservation, reducing farm inputs, and the realities of transitioning away from plastic-intensive production systems.

They...

What if one of the biggest challenges facing livestock, crops and human health is something we can’t see?

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor Henry sits down with Dan Stachofsky of Essential Energy Solutions to explore the growing impact of electromagnetic fields (EMFs) on regenerative agriculture, livestock performance and overall farm health.

Dan shares the personal journey that led him into EMF research, how his family’s health struggles opened the door to bioenergetics, and why he believes modern electrical infrastructure—from cell towers and Wi-Fi to data centers and vi...

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, host Taylor Henry sits down with Austin Unruh, founder of Trees for Grazers and author of The Grazer’s Guide to Trees, to explore the real-world economics and management of silvopasture.

Austin shares the lessons learned from establishing thousands of trees on working livestock farms, including the tree protection methods that are delivering 90%+ survival rates. The conversation dives into shade as a profit driver, the forage benefits of well-designed silvopasture systems, and how species like honey locust, persimmon, and mulberry can provide valuable livestock feed throughout the ye...

What does it take to transform an orchard from a high-input production system into a thriving, resilient ecosystem? In this presentation from the 2024 Acres U.S.A. Eco-Ag Conference, regenerative agriculture consultant and orchard specialist Chuck Schembre shares his practical approach to regenerative orcharding.Drawing from decades of experience in vineyards, orchards, and diversified farming systems, Chuck explores how soil biology, mycorrhizal fungi, plant diversity, livestock integration, and adaptive management can dramatically improve tree health, nutrient cycling, water infiltration, and profitability. Rather than focusing on inputs and prescriptions, he challenges growers to embrace observation, ecosystem function, and the power...

In this dynamic 2024 Eco-Ag presentation, Jason Mauck shares the evolution of his “Farm Weird” philosophy — blending intercropping, relay cropping, livestock integration, and creative systems thinking to build resilient, profitable farms. From 100-bushel wheat and soybeans grown together to autonomous grazing systems, golf-course-inspired farm design, and innovative direct-to-consumer meat marketing, Jason challenges conventional agriculture with practical experimentation and bold ideas. This conversation dives into polymath farming, plant adaptation, soil biology, carbon cycling, and how regenerative agriculture can reduce risk while increasing opportunity. Jason also opens up about personal loss, failure, entrepreneurship, and the mindset shifts that shaped his journey. Whether you’re...

Hosted during the American Regeneration Summit with Acres U.S.A. at Sovereignty Ranch, this unforgettable discussion with Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. explores the future of agriculture, the collapse of the chemical food system, the rise of regenerative farming, breakthrough technologies replacing toxic inputs, and the growing national movement to restore soil, health, and freedom.

From practical solutions that reduce chemical dependency to deeper reflections on stewardship, spirituality, and the role of the American farmer, this conversation highlights why regenerative agriculture has become one of the defining movements of our time.

Featuring Rick Clark...

In this episode of the podcast, Chris Jones—retired University of Iowa water quality researcher and author of The Swine Republic—dives into the environmental realities of modern agriculture in Iowa and across the Corn Belt. From nitrate-contaminated drinking water and stream erosion to ethanol policy, CAFOs, and the loss of diversified farming systems, Jones delivers a candid look at how industrial agriculture has reshaped rural landscapes, public health, and water quality. He also explores what regenerative, diversified agriculture could look like moving forward—and why meaningful change may require both policy reform and a complete rethinking of the curren...

What if pigs weren’t a problem—but one of the most powerful tools for regeneration?

In this episode of ‘The Acres USA Podcast’, Jordan Green of J&L Green Farm shares a practical, no-nonsense approach to using pigs to transform degraded woods into thriving silvopastures. Drawing from over a decade of hands-on experience, Jordan breaks down how to work with a pig’s natural instincts—turning disturbance into a force for soil building, forage growth, and long-term farm profitability.

He challenges common “pastured pig” practices that fall short of true regeneration, and lays out a clear framewor...

In this episode of the Acres U.S.A. Podcast, Taylor Henry sits down with Joy Van Wyngarden, Iowa-based conservation advocate, content creator, and passionate voice in regenerative agriculture. Joy shares her journey from growing up on a South Central Iowa row-crop farm to working as a watershed coordinator focused on soil conservation and water quality.

Together, they dive into some of the most pressing issues facing modern agriculture, including nitrate runoff, drinking water concerns, rising cancer rates, input costs, farmland prices, and the economic pressures farmers face today. Joy offers an honest, solutions-driven perspective on why...

Discover effective livestock management strategies from expert Bob Kinford. Learn how adaptive grazing can improve cattle health and reduce workload.

In this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ host Taylor Henry interviews Bob Kinford, a seasoned livestock expert from Texas. They explore transformative strategies that can help ranchers achieve better results with less stress. In this episode, we will Kinford's insights on holistic grazing, stockmanship, and the importance of understanding animal behavior.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, we have another throwback presentation from Eco-Ag 2024 featuring Megan Neubauer. Megan shares her and her dad Jack’s  journey from a traditional market garden CSA to a successful pick-your-own farm! Megan highlights crop planning, customer experience, and profitability strategies as well as other important topics. Learn how to optimize your farm for high volume, quality, and customer satisfaction. Acres USA is hosting a webinar with Megan this week: Thursday, April 16th. See link below for more details.

Key topics:

Crop planning for pick-your-own farms

Maxim...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, we have a throwback presentation from Eco-Ag 2024 featuring Nigel Palmer. Nigel explores the vital role of plant energy, minerals, and natural farming techniques in sustainable agriculture. Discover how plant systems, electrical properties, fermented plant juices, and natural remedies can transform your farming practices.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. H...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, Host Taylor Henry sits down to chat with Taylor Moyer. Taylor shares his unique journey from NASCAR crew chief to innovative cattle producer. He discusses integrating land management, agritourism, and revenue diversification strategies, highlighting how landowners can leverage tools like Land Trust to enhance profitability and community engagement.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, Host Taylor Henry chats with Mollie and Ryland Engelhart of American Regeneration and Sovereignty Ranch. They discuss regenerative agriculture, soil health, and the upcoming Sovereignty Ranch event. They share insights on farming practices, policy challenges, and the cultural shift towards sustainable food systems.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. H...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, Host Taylor Henry chats with Julia Shanks. Julia shares her journey from aviation to farm financial consulting, and discusses key strategies for farm business success. Topics include financial management, bookkeeping, debt, land issues, and mindset shifts for farmers aiming for profitability and sustainability.

Key Topics Include: 

Farm financial management and bookkeeping

Strategies for managing farm debt and land costs

Mindset shifts for farm profitability and sustainability

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https...

On this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ we have a presentation from Eco-Ag 2025. Dr. James White explores the fascinating world of plant-microbe interactions, focusing on endophytes, rhizophagy, and their roles in sustainable agriculture. Discover how microbes inside plants influence growth, nutrient uptake, and disease resistance, opening new horizons for regenerative farming.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U...

This presentation is from Eco-Ag 2025. This panel, led by Joel Hollingsworth, explores the deep-rooted challenges facing current American agriculture. This discussion between Joel, Matt Hintz and Adam Lasch includes economic, policy, cultural issues, and discusses innovative solutions for sustainable and profitable farming. Speakers share personal stories, systemic analysis, and community-driven strategies to restore soil health, support young farmers, and rebuild a resilient food system.

Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:

Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/

American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Organic Grass-Fed Revolution: The Alderspring Ranch Story with Glenn Elzinga Ep. 96

This week on ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ host Taylor Henry jumps into a  conversation with Glenn Elzinga, co-founder of Alderspring Ranch. Glenn shares insights into the organic grass-fed beef industry, the importance of customer relationships, and the challenges of maintaining organic certification. He discusses the evolution of the market, the significance of storytelling in marketing, and innovative cattle management practices. Glenn emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adaptation in agriculture, particularly in the face of changing consumer demands and environmental challenges.

Thank...

On today’s episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast host Taylor Henry sits down with Kelly Ryerson, known as the 'glyphosate girl', and discusses the alarming developments in Florida's farm bill that threaten free speech regarding agricultural practices. She highlights the implications of a proposed liability shield for pesticide manufacturers, the ongoing legal battles surrounding glyphosate, and the health risks associated with pesticide exposure. The discussion also touches on the political landscape, the importance of activism, and the need for a unified movement across political lines to address these critical issues in agriculture and public health.

...

On today’s episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, discover how JR Burdick, an 11th-generation farmer, transformed his conventional dairy farm into a profitable, regenerative, direct-to-consumer operation. In this episode, JR shares his journey from industry frustration to success through authenticity, community, and a passion for real food. Learn how he overcame challenges like storms and market pressures to innovate and grow.

Key insights include:

Honest pricing and value communication

Building customer loyalty through trust

Cutting costs by eliminating unnecessary chemicals

Scaling based on customer demand

...

In this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’ host Taylor Henry and guest Richard Perkins explore how Richard  turned a 32-acre Swedish farm into a thriving model of profitable regenerative agriculture. In this episode, Richard shares innovative strategies like pre-selling through Facebook groups and leveraging local sales platforms to transform ecological integrity into real income. Discover how to build authentic customer relationships, communicate value, and maximize revenue without cutting corners.

Richard's insights provide a blueprint for farmers and entrepreneurs eager to align profit with principles. Perfect for anyone passionate about sustainable farming that heals the land...

In this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, host Taylor Henry interviews AJ Richards, a ranching advocate and CEO of From the Farm. AJ shares his journey from a ranching family to becoming an entrepreneur focused on connecting farmers and ranchers directly with consumers. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the cattle industry during COVID-19, the economic struggles of small-scale slaughterhouses, and the importance of consumer education in understanding local food systems. AJ also discusses the role of USDA certification and the innovative platform he has created to support local producers in selling their products...

In this insightful podcast episode, Steve Campbell shares his expertise on achieving tender and flavorful beef without relying on DNA or ultrasound. Drawing from his extensive experience and knowledge gained from Gerald Fry, Campbell discusses the importance of visual identification of quality meat, emphasizing natural methods and the significance of factors like bone size, hide looseness, and glandular function. He also delves into the role of genetics, epigenetics, and proper handling in meat tenderness, while advocating for traditional practices over modern technological interventions.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Join us for this special live panel recording from Eco-Ag 2025, featuring regenerative agriculture leaders Gabe Brown, Rick Clark, and John Kempf, moderated by Taylor Henry. In this wide-ranging conversation, the panel dives into what it takes to build profitable, resilient farms in today’s volatile economic landscape. From cutting costs and escaping the commodity trap to value-added production, succession planning, and restoring rural communities, the speakers share hard-earned insights from decades on the land. You’ll hear practical frameworks for managing debt, investing wisely, mentoring the next generation, and designing farm businesses that prioritize independence, relationships, and long-term resilience. Tune...

Join us in this throwback Eco-Ag episode from 2012 with Hugh Lovel, a renowned expert in biodynamic agriculture, as he presents on the critical importance of total soil testing. Discover how comprehensive soil analysis can revolutionize crop management and enhance soil fertility. Hugh shares his experiences from consulting with farmers across continents and emphasizes the role of soil testing in sustainable agriculture. Tune in to learn about the origins of total testing, its applications, and why it's essential for understanding the true potential of your soil.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.ac...

In this throwback recording from Eco-Ag 1996, join Gary Zimmer as he talks through the principles of biological farming, sharing his journey from a dairy nutritionist to a pioneer in sustainable agriculture. Discover how understanding soil biology, mineral balance, and innovative farming techniques can transform agricultural practices and yield healthier crops. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about sustainable farming, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

Important Links from Today’s Episode:

Members site: https://members.acresusa.com

Acres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/

Acres U...

In this episode, Taylor Henry interviews Johnny Klemme, an award-winning farmland advisor, broker, and auctioneer. They discuss the critical issues surrounding farmland succession planning, the emotional and financial dynamics of family farms, and strategies for successful transitions to the next generation. Johnny shares insights on the importance of early conversations about succession, the role of trusts and partnerships, and the impact of 1031 exchanges on land investments. The conversation also touches on the emotional attachments to land, the importance of documentation, and the potential for conservation easements to preserve farmland for future generations.

Important Links from Today’s Ep...