The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

979: From Forest to Farm: Chris Parker’s Fungal Innovations

In this Episode Christopher Parker shares his lifelong journey into mycology, rooted in growing up in the forests of Western North Carolina and decades of hands-on experience. He explains how fungi underpins life on Earth, drives soil fertility, and plays a critical role in regenerative agriculture. The conversation explores low-tech mushroom cultivation, indigenous ecological knowledge, and how working with fungi can create resilient, localized food systems. Christopher also highlights practical ways to grow mushrooms, restore ecosystems, and build livelihoods rooted in land stewardship.Our Guest: Christopher Parker is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, he is a farmer, educator, and myco-culture keeper with over 30 years of experience in Indigenous regenerative agriculture and mushroom cultivation. He co-founded The Forest Farmacy, an Indigenous-led mushroom school rooted in the Cherokee homeland of Western North Carolina. Chris teaches applied eco-mycology—weaving traditional forest-tending knowledge with modern cultivation science to heal ecosystems and strengthen food sovereignty. His work centers on low-tech, scalable cultivation that transforms farm and forest byproducts into gourmet and medicinal mushrooms. Through his teaching and mentorship, he helps farmers and land stewards create ecologically sound, culturally rooted, and economically resilient livelihoods.Key Topics & EntitiesChristopher ParkerIndigenous regenerative agricultureMushroom cultivation (low-tech and scalable)Mycology and soil microbiologyMycorrhizal fungi (ecto & endo)Food sovereignty and local food systemsForest farming and ecosystem restorationTrichoderma and soil regenerationKorean Natural Farming (KNF)Biochar and microbial inoculationMushroom cultivation on logs and sawdustThe Forest FarmacyThe Mycelial Healer (book)Radical Mycology (book by Peter McCoy)Key Questions AnsweredWhy does fungi matter in soil and regenerative agriculture?Fungi act as the “underground economy,” moving nutrients, water, and minerals between soil and plants. They unlock nutrients already present in the soil, reducing or eliminating the need for external fertilizers.Can healthy soil eliminate the need for fertilizers?Yes. When fungal and microbial life is balanced, natural processes provide nutrients to plants, dramatically reducing inputs and allowing nature to do the heavy lifting.How do mushrooms actually grow and function?The visible mushroom is only the fruiting body. Most of the organism exists as mycelium within logs or soil, breaking down organic matter and cycling nutrients.What is a simple way to start growing mushrooms?Low-tech methods like inoculating logs, pasteurizing straw, or using simple heat sources can produce mushrooms without expensive equipment.How can mushroom cultivation support regenerative farming?Spent mushroom substrates and even contaminated batches can be repurposed to build soil biology, suppress pathogens, and enhance fertility.What role does observation play in successful growing?Careful observation of natural systems—like how fungi interact with insects, trees, and decay—reveals cultivation insights that can outperform conventional methods.What are common failures in mushroom cultivation?Certain species like maitake and chicken of the woods are difficult to grow on logs using standard methods. Understanding their natural ecology can unlock success.How can farmers integrate fungi into their systems?By using local fungi, building soil biology, and incorporating techniques like KNF and biochar inoculation, farmers can regenerate land while producing food.Episode HighlightsFungi and bacteria underpin all life on EarthMushrooms are just the “fruit”—most life is hidden as myceliumHealthy soil biology can eliminate fertilizer needsLow-tech mushroom growing is accessible to anyoneContaminated mushroom bags can regenerate soil via biocharObservation of nature led to breakthroughs in cultivation methodsIndigenous knowledge and modern science can work togetherStart small, learn deeply, and scale graduallyCalls to Action & ResourcesThe Forest Farmacy — https://theforestfarmacy.comChristopher's Book: The Mycelial Healer — Available via Chelsea Green PublishingCourse — Year-long mushroom cultivation program HEREChristophers Book Recommendation -  Paul Stamets, Growing Gourmet Medicinal Mushrooms and  Radical Mycology by Peter McCoyShow Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/forestfarmacyVisit www.urbanfarm.org/ForestFarmacy for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

978: Building the largest worm farm in the U.S. with Zach Brooks

In this Episode Zach Brooks shares how he transformed a barren cotton field into the thriving Arizona Worm Farm which is now one of the largest worm composting operations in the U.S. What began as a personal experiment in sustainability evolved into a regenerative, off-grid-inspired ecosystem that converts waste into soil, food, and community education. Zach explains how worms, compost, and black soldier flies work together to rebuild soil and produce nutrient-dense food. The conversation highlights practical, scalable solutions for local food systems using simple, accessible technologies.Our Guest:  Zach semi-retired from healthcare management at the age of 42 when his consulting company went public, and when his first of three grandchildren were born, he went back to Arizona State University to get a second master's degree in sustainability. Frustrated that most causes of climate change were not only fixable, but fixable with off the shelf practices and technology, Zach set out to prove that an off-grid lifestyle could be every bit as comfortable as a wasteful lifestyle and have a positive impact on the environment. And the most exciting thing...Zach has now built Arizona Worm Farm into one of the largest most successful worm farms in the United States. What is the Arizona Worm Farm?A regenerative, working farm designed to turn food waste into compost, soil fertility, and food production while educating the community on sustainable gardening practices.How did Zach Brooks get started in worm farming?After a career in healthcare, Zach pursued a sustainability degree and became motivated to address climate challenges using practical, existing solutions. He started by rebuilding dead soil using worms.How large has the operation become?The farm produces over 4.5 million worms annually, supports thousands of customers, and manages millions more worms dedicated to compost production.What role do worms play in soil regeneration?Worms convert organic matter into nutrient-rich castings filled with beneficial microbes that improve soil health, fertility, and plant growth.What do the worms eat at scale?Primarily pre-composted organic waste, including horse manure, landscape waste, and pre-consumer food scraps from caterers and food processors.Why is local composting important?Fresh, local compost contains active microbial life and reduces landfill waste, creating a closed-loop system that supports local food production.What are black soldier flies and why are they important?They are composting insects whose larvae consume waste rapidly and convert it into high-quality protein for animals, offering a sustainable alternative feed source.What makes Arizona Worm Farm a “one-stop shop” for gardeners?It combines education, compost, worms, plant starts, and regenerative techniques to help people successfully grow food at home.How does the farm generate revenue beyond worms?Through classes, compost products, plant starts, and value-added inputs like worm tea and insect-based fertilizers.What is the long-term vision behind the farm?To demonstrate that regenerative, self-sustaining systems can support communities using simple inputs like sunlight, water, and organic waste.Episode HighlightsBuilt from a dead cotton field into a regenerative ecosystemScaled from 400,000 to 4.5 million worms annuallyProduces 80,000 worms per week through controlled breedingDiverts large volumes of food waste from landfillsIntegrates composting, aquaponics, and food forestsHosts highly sought-after, sold-out educational classesProduces 400–800 lbs of insect protein weekly via black soldier fliesDemonstrates year-round food production in a desert climateKey TopicsArizona Worm FarmZach BrooksWorm composting (vermiculture)Black soldier fly larvae systemsRegenerative agricultureSoil microbiology & soil food webComposting systems (hot compost + worm compost)Food waste diversionOff-grid living systemsAquaponics integrationSeasonal planting strategiesUrban farming education programsLocal food systems & backyard gardeningSustainable protein production (insects)ResourcesArizona Worm Farm — https://arizonawormfarm.comShow Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/azWormFarmClasses & Workshops — Available via website mailing listSelf-Guided Farm Tours — Visit in South PhoenixVisit www.urbanfarm.org/AZWormFarm for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

977: Six Ways to Build Resilient Food Systems and Lives with Scott Murray

In this Episode Greg and Scott explore the concept of resiliency through both human behavior and regenerative farming systems. Scott Murray shares practical strategies for adapting to stress, uncertainty, and environmental challenges while building stronger personal and agricultural systems. The conversation connects biological resilience, seen in ecosystems and farms, to everyday preparedness, food security, and mindset. Listeners walk away with six actionable ways to improve resilience in their homes, gardens, and lives.Our Guest: Scott Murray has over 50 years of experience in organic agriculture across the U.S. and Mexico and has served as a California conservation official for 33 years. He specializes in farm creation, farmland preservation, and regenerative polyculture systems. Scott now leads pioneering research and consulting on California-grown coffee, managing multi-variety trials and agroforestry-based plantations.Key TopicsResiliency (human and ecological definitions)Carrying capacity in biological systemsRegenerative farming principlesPolyculture vs monoculture systemsWater management and irrigation strategiesSoil health and biological farmingOrganic vs chemical agriculture debateFood security and home food productionCut-and-come-again gardening methodEmergency preparedness (food, water, go-bags)Decentralized food systems and local resilienceMindset and mental preparednessWhat is resiliency and how does it apply to daily life?Resiliency is the ability to adapt and recover from stress, adversity, or disruption. Like a rubber band returning to its original shape, humans can build emotional, mental, and behavioral flexibility to regain balance after challenges.How does resiliency show up in farming systems?In agriculture, resiliency comes from designing balanced ecosystems with diversity, proper water management, and healthy soil biology. Farms that mimic natural systems are better able to withstand environmental and economic shocks.Why is polyculture more resilient than monoculture?Polyculture systems grow multiple crops together, creating layered ecosystems that reduce risk, improve soil health, and increase productivity. If one crop fails, others can still thrive, ensuring more stable yields.Can organic systems produce enough food?Yes. The belief that organic farming cannot feed the world is a misconception. With proper design and soil management, organic systems can be highly productive and sustainable.What is “cut and come again” gardening?It’s a harvesting method where you remove outer leaves from plants like lettuce, kale, or chard, allowing them to regrow and produce continuously over months instead of a single harvest.How can families increase food resilience at home?By growing even a small portion of their food, storing shelf-stable items, and building relationships with neighbors or local growers, families can buffer against disruptions in the food system.Why is water management critical for resilient farming?Efficient irrigation—such as shorter, more frequent watering—prevents waste, improves plant health, and reduces stress on crops, especially in drought-prone regions.What role does mindset play in resilience?Mental preparedness is foundational. When individuals are prepared and confident, they respond to crises with clarity rather than panic, enabling better decision-making.Episode HighlightsResiliency is like a rubber band—stretch, recover, return to balanceFarms of the future rely on biodiversity and natural systemsOverwatering and poor design can silently destroy farm productivityCutting water use in half can actually improve plant healthOne ounce of wheat seed can yield a five-gallon bucket of grain“Cut and come again” gardening extends harvests for monthsFood is more valuable than gold in times of crisisPreparedness reduces stress and increases adaptabilityResourcesUrban Farm Podcast - https://www.urbanfarm.orgEdge of Urban Farm - http://edgeofurbanfarm.comJohn Jeavons Urban Farm Podcast Episodes https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/16/423-john-jeavons/ https://www.urbanfarm.org/2019/02/19/424-john-jeavons/Visit https://www.urbanfarm.org/futurefarms for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

976: Table to Farm Climate Solutions, Say What?

A new way of looking at climate solutions with Anthony MyintIn this Episode Anthony Myint shares his journey from pioneering pop-up restaurants to leading a climate-focused nonprofit transforming agriculture. He explains why consumer choice alone doesn’t change farming systems and introduces a new model: funding regenerative agriculture directly through small, scalable contributions. Through Zero Foodprint, businesses and individuals can help finance on-the-ground practices like compost application and cover cropping. The conversation reframes “farm-to-table” into “table-to-farm,” emphasizing collective action to restore soil and climate.Our Guest: Anthony Myint is the executive director of Zero FoodPrint, a nonprofit named one of the most innovative companies in the world by Fast Company. Zero FoodPrint leads, collaborations with state agencies, local governments, and hundreds of businesses to implement impactful and validated regenerative agriculture projects. The organization has awarded over $8 million to 600 plus farm projectsKey Topics & EntitiesZero Foodprint nonprofit modelRegenerative agriculture practicesTable-to-farm vs. farm-to-tableRestaurant industry innovation (pop-ups, Mission Chinese Food)Climate-beneficial agricultureCompost application and soil carbon sequestrationCover crops and reduced soil disturbanceGrant funding for farmers (up to $25,000)Carbon measurement and cost-effectiveness modelingPublic-private partnerships (state, local, conservation groups)Consumer participation through 1% contributionsCollective regeneration conceptLimitations of organic market growth (1% of U.S. farmland)Economic barriers for farmers transitioning practicesKey Questions AnsweredWhat is regenerative agriculture?A system focused on improving land management through practices like compost use, cover cropping, reduced tillage, and integrating livestock, working with nature to restore soil health and sequester carbon.Why don’t better consumer choices alone change farming?Because farmers operate within tight financial systems driven by loans and input costs. Paying slightly more for products doesn’t provide enough capital or reduce risk for farmers to transition practices.What is Zero Foodprint’s solution?A funding model where businesses and consumers contribute small amounts (often 1% of sales), which are pooled and distributed as grants to farmers implementing regenerative practices.How does the funding reach farmers?Farmers submit simple grant requests for specific practices. Funds are allocated based on cost-effectiveness (e.g., cost per ton of carbon sequestered) and verified by local experts.What does “table-to-farm” mean?Instead of just sourcing from good farms, it means sending money back to farms to actively support the transition to regenerative practices across the entire system.How can individuals participate?By dining at participating businesses, contributing monthly donations, or supporting campaigns that direct funds to regenerative agriculture projects.What impact has the model achieved so far?Over $8 million has been awarded to 600+ farm projects, funding real changes like compost application and cover cropping at scale.What is the biggest barrier to adoption?Even small contributions (like a penny or 1%) are still a new concept, and businesses and consumers are not yet accustomed to paying directly for climate solutions.Episode HighlightsAnthony’s early career helped pioneer the pop-up restaurant movement, leading to Mission Chinese Food.A turning point came after realizing organic farming still represents only ~1% of U.S. farmland after decades.The failure of “vote with your dollar” thinking led to a new model focused on direct funding.Zero Foodprint enables consumers to participate passively—just by eating at certain restaurants.One restaurant group generated $650,000 for farm projects through a 1% contribution model.A single music tour commitment created $300,000 for regenerative agriculture.Grants are simple and accessible, taking farmers just 15–20 minutes to apply.The long-term vision mirrors recycling and renewable energy programs—small fees funding systemic change.ResourcesResource — Zero Foodprint WebsiteDonate — Support Regenerative AgricultureApply (Farmers) — https://www.zerofoodprint.org/applyVisit www.urbanfarm.org/ZeroFoodPrint for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

975: Healthy Plants Start in the Soil with Shota Austin

A Rosie On The House ReplayIn this episode explores the foundation of successful gardening: healthy soil. Farmer Greg is joined by Shota Austin from Tank’s Green Stuff to discuss composting, soil biology, and how gardeners in dry climates can transform lifeless dirt into thriving soil ecosystems. They explain how compost introduces life into depleted soils, why organic practices support soil microbiology, and how mulch, compost, and planting mixes work together to build resilient garden beds. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for gardeners, including dechlorinating water, choosing soil inputs wisely, and avoiding common soil-building mistakes.Shota Austin is with Tanks Green Stuff in Tucson AZ. Shota has been in the agriculture industry for the last two decades. Working with livestock, goats, sheep, cattle, chickens, cotton, alfalfa, nursery crops, orchards and vegetable production. As a former U of A Compost Cat, Shota has been working with compost since 2013 and now works as sales and marketing director for Tanks Green Stuff, where he oversees all aspects of the business, including production quality control. Product development, sales, marketing, social media, and customer service. Shota is also a founding member of the newly formed Arizona Compost Council.Key Topics & EntitiesTank’s Green StuffArizona Compost CouncilCompost and soil microbiologyDesert soil and low organic matterOrganic fertilizers vs chemical fertilizersNPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium)Mulch and soil moisture retentionRaised bed soil mixesCoco coir as a peat moss alternativeDechlorinating municipal waterSoil biology and plant healthOrganic compost production from landscape wasteManure risks in garden bedsLocal soil products for arid climatesKey Questions AnsweredWhy is compost so critical to soil health?Compost introduces organic matter, beneficial microbes, and nutrients into soil. In many desert environments, soil contains little organic material—often less than 1%. Compost transforms inert dirt into living soil by supporting microbial life that cycles nutrients and improves structure, water retention, and plant resilience.What is the difference between dirt and soil?Dirt is largely inert mineral material like sand, silt, clay, and rock fragments. Soil is a living ecosystem made up of minerals, organic matter, microorganisms, water, and air. When organic matter and biology are added to dirt, it becomes functional soil capable of supporting plant life.What role does soil microbiology play in plant health?Soil microbes act as the delivery system for plant nutrition. They break down organic matter, release nutrients, defend plants from pathogens, and create the soil structure plants rely on. When gardeners feed the soil microbiology rather than the plant directly, plants thrive naturally.What do the three fertilizer numbers (NPK) mean?The three numbers on fertilizer labels represent nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen promotes leafy growth and green foliage. Phosphorus supports flower and fruit development. Potassium strengthens root systems and overall plant resilience. These nutrients work best when supported by micronutrients, trace minerals, and active soil biology.Why can chemical fertilizers harm soil biology?Many synthetic fertilizers and pesticides reduce beneficial microbial populations. While they may provide short-term plant growth, they disrupt the biological systems that naturally feed and protect plants. Organic fertilizers support soil organisms instead of suppressing them.How can gardeners remove chlorine from municipal water before watering plants?Chlorine can harm beneficial microbes in soil. One simple method is letting water sit in an open container so the chlorine dissipates. Another option is installing a whole-house charcoal filtration system that removes chlorine before the water reaches garden soil.What is the difference between compost, planting mix, and mulch?Compost is decomposed organic matter used as a soil amendment. Planting mix blends compost with materials like coco coir and perlite to improve aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. Mulch is any material placed on top of soil to protect it, retain moisture, and gradually build organic matter as it decomposes.What ingredients create a high-quality planting mix?A strong planting mix typically includes compost for nutrients and microbial life, coco coir for moisture retention, aeration materials like perlite or pumice, a small amount of native soil for mineral content, and organic fertilizers for additional nutrients.Why is mulch essential for building soil in dry climates?Mulch protects soil from heat, reduces evaporation, and feeds soil organisms as it breaks down. In hot climates, thick mulch layers can reduce surface temperatures and improve soil moisture retention while gradually building organic matter.What materials should gardeners avoid putting in their soil?Gardeners should avoid chemical fertilizers, peat moss harvested unsustainably, screened fill dirt, and unverified manure sources. Non-organic straw or hay may also introduce herbicides or weed seeds that damage gardens.Episode HighlightsCompost adds life to soils that may contain less than 1% organic matter.Healthy soil is built from three main components: mineral particles, organic matter, and living organisms.Soil microbes function like delivery systems, transporting nutrients from soil to plant roots.Thick mulch layers can reduce landscape temperatures by as much as 15–20°F.Coco coir from coconut husks provides a sustainable alternative to peat moss and lasts longer in soil.Organic fertilizers supply nutrients along with micronutrients and trace minerals that synthetic fertilizers often lack.Letting water sit in a bucket allows chlorine to dissipate before watering plants.Locally produced soil products are often better suited for regional climate and sustainability.ResourcesTank’s Green Stuff — https://tanksgreenstuff.comUrban Farm Tree Planting Mix — Available through Urban Farm pop-up events - Store.urbanfarm.orgVisit www.UrbanFarm.org/973 for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.