In this down-to-earth episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon speaks with Shota Austin, Arizona native, composting expert, and treasurer of the Arizona Compost Council. Representing Tanks Green Stuff in Tucson, Shota shares how composting isn’t just about waste management—it's a vital tool for rebuilding soils, conserving water, and creating a circular, climate-smart future. This episode is rich with real-world insights, community-driven strategies, and hopeful action.
In this transformative episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon reconnects with Dale Overton, founder of Overton Environmental Enterprises Inc., for a deep dive into the future of soil health, microbial science, and climate-smart agriculture. Broadcasting live from the Heritage headquarters in downtown Phoenix during a sustainability conference, this episode is filled with practical insights and inspiring stories from the front lines of environmental innovation.Dale shares his journey from quantitative ecology and reclamation projects to becoming a global pioneer in biologically-based farming products. With over a million acres impacted and clients ranging from major food processors to high-profile urban landscapes like Google’s San Jose campus and YouTube headquarters, Overton’s story exemplifies how ecological expertise and entrepreneurial strategy can create massive change.Listeners will learn how Dale developed Eco Tea®, a suite of biologically engineered soil amendments designed to boost plant resilience, nutrient uptake, and soil microbiology. From liquid seed coatings that replace fungicides to precision in-furrow applications, Dale breaks down how microbes are changing the game in modern agriculture.
Rooted in Regeneration: How La Crema is Cultivating the Future of Wine and Soil In this enlightening episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon visits the heart of California wine country for an in-depth conversation with the team at La Crema Winery. Together, they explore how one of the nation’s leading wine producers is championing regenerative agriculture while balancing tradition, innovation, and profitability. The discussion dives deep into long-term field trials funded by CDFA and USDA grants, focused on soil carbon sequestration, compost use, no-till strategies, and cover crops like daikon radish and crimson clover. You'll learn how La Crema’s partnership with institutions like UC Davis and UC Berkeley is not only reshaping vineyard soil health, but also improving water infiltration, microbial networks, and ultimately, wine quality. From experimenting with hemp for soil remediation to leveraging satellite evapotranspiration models and real-time vineyard sensors, La Crema exemplifies what it means to "close the gap between information and action." Winemaker Craig and the vineyard team offer unique insights on how regenerative practices must also meet the high standards of winemaking consistency — blending tradition with sustainability. Whether you’re a wine lover, a sustainability advocate, or someone passionate about climate-smart agriculture, this episode serves up a compelling mix of science, business, and ecological wisdom straight from the vines. Why Listen? At Harvesting Wisdom, we believe that "We have all taken a bite out of the apple." This conversation exemplifies how shared responsibility and scientific rigor can transform age-old practices. La Crema’s story encourages listeners to leave a social footprint by integrating sustainable methods that respect both the earth and the economy
In this compelling Part 1 of "Harvesting Wisdom," host Mike McMahon explores the power of regenerative agriculture and sustainable urban innovation. The first half of the episode features Asher Wright, Farm Director at Caney Fork Farms in Tennessee (on Al Gore’s Caney Fork property), who shares his journey from environmental studies student to pioneering regenerative land manager. Asher offers deep insights into how Caney Fork is practicing climate-smart farming: from soil health, carbon sequestration, and rotational grazing to growing heirloom grains and developing diversified farm business models.Transitioning into the second half, Mike welcomes Jeff Whitlock, Zero Waste Analyst for the City of Phoenix. Jeff discusses the city's groundbreaking sustainability programs, including their composting systems, landscape green waste certifications, and organic waste diversion initiatives. He shares lessons learned in scaling urban zero-waste efforts while maintaining efficiency and public engagement — critical knowledge for any city aiming to build resilience in the face of climate change.Together, Asher and Jeff offer a rare and practical view of how rural regenerative farming and urban sustainability systems are two essential pillars for building a climate-smart, socially responsible future — fully aligned with Urban Farming Education’s mission to "close the gap between information and action."
In this episode of Harvesting Wisdom with Mike McMahon, we’re joined by Eilecia Bovard, a visionary social impact entrepreneur and co-founder of Perfect-farm.com. Eilecia shares insights into her mission to create a fair and sustainable transition for livestock agriculture, helping farmers reduce emissions while tapping into new income streams. As the Director of the Institute for Sustainable Wellbeing and an EU Climate Pact Ambassador, Eilecia discusses the transformative role of sustainable practices in fostering a regenerative future. Tune in to discover how her work bridges innovation with action, empowering communities to make impactful, planet-friendly changes.
In this podcast we spotlight Cairncrest Farm, a family-run farm that champions sustainable and ethical farming practices. The podcast explores key topics such as industrial agriculture, animal husbandry, and sustainable food systems. Listeners gain a deeper understanding of where their food comes from and how it is produced. The host discusses the critical need for transparency in farming practices and aims to inspire individuals to recognize how their food choices affect not only their health but also the environment and the well-being of workers.
In this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon takes you on a flavorful journey through the world of Vine to Bar, the innovative company transforming Chardonnay Marc into delicious, nutritious, and sustainable chocolate. Discover the story behind Vine to Bar's unique products, learn about the incredible health benefits packed into every bite, and see how sustainability is at the heart of their mission.
Join us in this episode as Marshall Rabil, the Director of Marketing and Sales at Hubs Peanuts, shares the fascinating history behind the originator of the specialty extra-large peanut. Discover how this iconic brand has maintained its relevance over the years, along with insights into their impactful community projects.
Tune in to this enlightening podcast episode where we delve into the mission and impact of the US Compost Council, the leading national organization dedicated to promoting composting. Learn about the council's efforts to advocate for sustainable organic waste management practices and foster environmental conservation through composting initiatives. Discover how they educate communities about the benefits of composting and support industry standards for compost production. Join us as we explore the vital role of the US Compost Council in advancing composting nationwide, paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
In this insightful episode of "Harvesting Wisdom," we spotlight the pioneering work of the California Cotton Ginners and Growers Associations and the innovative advancements by Western Fiber. The California Cotton Ginners and Growers Associations champion the cotton industry in California, addressing vital issues such as air and water quality, energy, environmental concerns, labor, taxes, and transportation on both state and federal fronts. Their dedication ensures that the industry's needs are met and its voice is heard, all while promoting sustainable practices and policies.
Delve into the vibrant realm of urban farming with Kenner W. Cooper in this captivating podcast episode. As an experienced medical professional in Los Angeles, Kenner, along with his high school friend Dan Nowell, embarked on a groundbreaking journey into urban agriculture. What began as a modest experiment with Ready Go Garden on a flat rooftop has flourished into a thriving 1,500-square-foot urban farm, exclusively providing fresh produce. Beyond their personal achievement, Kenner's partnership with Luca De Matteis led to the creation of Urban Terra, an initiative that brings the innovative concept of urban farming to the market. Highlighting successful garden locations in Los Angeles, equipped with advanced systems for soil monitoring, WiFi-driven watering, and nutrient dosing, Urban Terra is transforming urban agriculture.
Explore the realm of hemp alongside Lawrence Serbin, a pioneer with over thirty years of experience in the industry, in this illuminating podcast episode. Lawrence's venture began when he assumed the role of national director of the Business Alliance for Commerce in Hemp (BACH) in 1991, sparking his enduring dedication to the plant. Two years later, in 1993, he established Hemp Traders, a company renowned for its premium hemp textiles, showcasing his entrepreneurial acumen and unwavering faith in hemp's capabilities.
Welcome to a special episode of our podcast, where we dive into the heart of Africa to explore the unique partnerships that Urban Farming Education has cultivated with both nonprofits and businesses across continents. Today, we spotlight our collaborative efforts in Zimbabwe, shining a light on the synergy between sustainable farming and conservation.
In this episode we're discussing two organizations: Soil, Seed and Water, and Urban Farming Education. They're using innovation and engagement to help change their communities for the better. You'll learn all about how they're doing this through initiatives like community gardening, saving water and seeds, and even how farming can be sustainable and good for our planet. Whether it's turning a small plot into a lush garden or learning how to grow food in the city, these groups are leading the way in making our communities greener and teaching us all about the power of plants. Join us to see how you can be part of this change, too!