Rocks To Roots

Jorge and Madyson of Casa Cano Farms Return!

In this episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane sit down with Jorge and Madyson of Casa Cano Farms to talk about their journey from high school sweethearts to first-generation farmers building one of Spokane County’s most inspiring local farms.The two share how a conversation in an AP Environmental Science class at Ferris High School planted the seed for what would eventually become their farm in Valleyford. From starting on rented land to developing their own 60-acre operation, Jorge and Madyson talk about the challenges, risks, and determination it took to build Casa Cano Farms from the ground up.They also discuss their commitment to regenerative farming practices, creating resilient local food systems, and building community through their farm store, CSA program, wholesale partnerships, and the Casa Cano Food Hub.Whether you’re a farmer, food lover, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode offers an inspiring look at the passion and perseverance behind one of Spokane’s next generation of farmers.Learn more about their farm at: https://casacanofarms.com/

Josh RIddle of Farm It, LLC

In this episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane sit down with Josh Riddle of Farm It for a grounded and motivating conversation about what it means to farm with the future in mind.Josh shares his journey from farming alongside his grandfather and dad to now embracing regenerative agriculture on his own land. They talk about the shift from traditional methods to innovative practices like cover cropping, no-till systems, and reducing synthetic inputs — all to rebuild soil health and create a more sustainable food system.From finding support through his biofarming Group to rethinking what success looks like on the farm, Josh brings a thoughtful, hopeful perspective to what it means to grow food that’s good for people and the planet.Whether you’re a grower, a curious eater, or someone who just wants to better understand how food and conservation connect, this episode offers a fresh look at the power of farming in partnership with nature.

Michael Townshend of Wildland Cooperative

In this episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane sit down with Michael Townshend of Wildland Cooperative for an inspiring conversation about the challenges and rewards of running a regenerative farm on Green Bluff, Washington.From cultivating vegetables and Christmas trees to brewing beer and building a community hub, Michael shares the mission behind Wildland Co-op and the values that guide their work. They discuss the importance of sustainable practices, supporting local food systems, and how the co-op is creating space for connection and education.Whether you’re passionate about farming, local food, or the future of cooperative business models, this episode highlights the heart and hard work behind one of Spokane’s most community-driven farms.Learn more about Wildland Cooperative at: https://www.wildland.coop/

Turning Up the Heat with John Zagajeski of Elixir Hot Sauce

In this fiery and flavorful episode of Rocks to Roots, Hilary and Duane bring you along for a live podcast recording at Spokane’s first-ever Spice Fest at Scale House Market.From basement-grown ghost peppers to bold bottles on local shelves, hot sauce maker John Zagajeski of Elixir Hot Sauce shares the story behind his small-batch success. Learn how collaborations with Vets on the Farm and Wild Sage Farms have helped turn up the quality—and the heat—of every bottle.Plus, you’ll hear the hilarious (and slightly painful) Truth or Heat Challenge between John and Duane, and a grand finale Carolina Reaper tasting you won’t forget.Whether you’re a spice-head or just love supporting local, this episode is a flavorful celebration of Spokane’s growing hot sauce scene.Learn more: www.elixirsauce.com

Rewind #3: Live Panel Discussion / Nov 5, 2021 / Nutrient Density + Why It Matters

Originally recorded at the 2021 Farm & Food Symposium, this special panel brings together four influential voices to explore the importance of nutrient density in our food and why it should matter to all of us — farmers, consumers, and everyone in between.Moderated by Hilary Gonzalez of the Spokane Conservation District, this conversation features:David Montgomery & Anne Biklé, authors of What Your Food AteScott Gail, Bio Farming Manager at the Spokane Conservation DistrictDavid Knaus, Founder of Apical LabsTogether, they dig into how soil health, farming practices, and regenerative systems are deeply tied to the nutritional quality of what ends up on our plates. The panelists offer science-backed insights and practical steps to move toward a more resilient, health-focused food system.🎧 Whether you’re in the ag space or care about what’s fueling your body, this episode offers rich, timely perspectives on food, health, and the future of farming.Don’t Miss This Year’s Farm & Food Symposium + Tilth Conference📍 Spokane Valley, WA📅 November 12–15🔗 Register by October 28: tilthalliance.org/event/tilth-conference-farm-food-symposium