March 8th, 2010
We are joined by Nikki Henderson, the Executive Director of People’s Grocery. People’s Grocery is a community-based organization in West Oakland that develops creative solutions to the health problems in the community that stem from a lack of access to and knowledge about healthy, fresh foods People’s Grocery can be found online at peoplesgrocery.org.
Topics of discussion include the history of People’s Grocery, the concept of a mobile market, the importance of urban gardens, the profitability of selling fresh produce in urban areas, the “elitism” of local food, and of course, food justice.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:14 — 26.9MB)
Tags: community, Food, justice, oakland, urban
Posted in Economics, English, Food | No Comments »
March 1st, 2010
On this episode of the Agroinnovations Podcast I am joined by Margaret Youngs Coleman, who is the farm manager at the Chewonki Foundation, an outdoor classroom and learning institution dedicated to providing young people with educational experiences in the outdoors.
Margaret and I discuss the location and landscape of the Chewonki farm, its role in education, and the importance of wilderness and farm experiences for young people in today’s society.
Useful links:
The Chewonki Foundation
Diet Soap Podcast Episode #46: Radical Permaculture
The Humanure Handbook
FAO Information Note: Agriculture, Food Security, and Climate Change in Post-Copenhagen Processes
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Podcast: Download (32.7MB)
Tags: chewonki, education, maine
Posted in Education, English | No Comments »
February 22nd, 2010
In this episode of the podcast I am joined by Neal Rauhauser, a blogger and researcher whose work can be found on the website strandedwind.org. Neal is also the author of the National Renewable Ammonia Architecture, a 6,500 word background paper that covers the history of human fertilizer production.
In this interview Neal and I discuss the concept of stranded wind, the past, current, and future status of ammonia as a fertilizer, and the potential to produce ammonia renewably using hydroelectric. Neal brings us up to speed on a proposal to reinvigorate local economies where hydroelectric facilities already exist through ammonia/grain/ethanol/greenhouse horticulture production.
Useful links below:
Strandedwind
The National Renewable Ammonia Architecture
The Ammonia Fuel Network
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Podcast: Download (33.5MB)
Tags: ammonia, ethanol, fertilizer, fuel, hydroelectric, nitrogen, Soil, wind
Posted in Economics, English, Soil | 1 Comment »
February 15th, 2010
In the second part of my interview with Jerry from blacksoldierflyblog.com, we discuss use of BSF for decomposing manures, including human manure, the quality and volume of compost produced, fly larva as the primary product of BSF composting, biological racism against the Black Soldier Fly, and BSF with California Red Worms.
I also read some listener email and comments. Useful links below:
Black Soldier Fly Blog
BioPod and Black Soldier Fly Community Forum
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Podcast: Download (31.0MB)
Tags: black soldier fly, composting, insects, worms
Posted in English, Insects, Soil | 5 Comments »
February 8th, 2010
The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia ilucens) has many remarkable characteristics that make it useful to human beings. In this episode, I am joined by Jerry of blacksoldierflyblog.com. Jerry and I discuss the lifecycle, morphological characteristics, and population dynamics of the Black Soldier Fly. We also discuss strategies for attracting and managing a healthy colony. This is Part I in a two part series.
Useful links below:
Blacksoldierfly Blog
Phoenix Worms (via Google)
Wikipedia article
Purchase a Biopod
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Podcast: Download (33.1MB)
Tags: black soldier fly, composting, entomology, Hermetia ilucens, insects
Posted in English, Insects | 4 Comments »
February 1st, 2010
Mark Feedman is the founder of CREAR, the Regional Center for the Study of Rural Alternatives, a small agricultural school located in the northern mountains of the Dominican Republic, near the Haitian border. Feedman has been an tireless advocate of sustainable agriculture for 40 years, and in this interview he recounts his struggle to create an educational center in the remote forests of Hispaniola. Topics include rural education, the future of Haiti, and the subject of hope.
CREAR (via Agroinnovations)
CREAR Slide Show (via Agroinnovations)
FAO Soils Bulletin 60
Live Learning Visits CREAR
Dominican Community Gardens: CREAR
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Podcast: Download (40.1MB)
Tags: CREAR, dominican republic, education, haiti, soil conservation, watershed management
Posted in Education, English, Soil | 13 Comments »
January 25th, 2010
In this episode of the podcast, I speak with Chris Watkins of Appropedia.org. We start off by reviewing some of the highlights of Chris’ 18 month trip around the globe meeting with other Open Source Appropriate Technology (OSAT) pioneers, and then we move on to the discuss the utility of Appropedia, its growth, its role in connecting and building communities, differences between OSAT and Free Software, and how to get more people involved in OSAT.
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Podcast: Download (36.3MB)
Tags: appropedia, Appropriate Technology, hardware, linux, open source, OSAT, reprap
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
January 18th, 2010
Doug Lain is a fiction author and the anarchist podcaster behind the Diet Soap Podcast. In this interview, Doug and I discuss the intellectual roots of socialist anarchism, Paris in 1968, Silent Revolution, and Psycho-Geography. Useful links below:
The Diet Soap Podcast
Elinor Ostrom - Winner of the Nobel Prize in Economics
WMRW 95.1 FM
Red House Art Radio
Psychogeography on Wikipedia
Flickr Photo Map of a Bike Ride
Fiction By Douglas Lain
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Podcast: Download (54.0MB)
Tags: anarchism, diet soap, ideology, Politics, silent revolution
Posted in English, Politics | 5 Comments »
January 11th, 2010
In this episode we continue with the theme of school gardens and farms. I am joined by Debbie Hillman of the Edible Acre Project, a project in a suburb just outside of Chicago Illinois. Debbie discusses the origins and implementation of the project, the role of a the farm/garden in education, and practical strategies for those looking to develop similar projects in their communities.
Resource links below:
Peace Corps Connect: A networking site that may help you find RPCVs in your community
World Wise Schools: Bring the Peace Corps to your local school
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Podcast: Download (32.8MB)
Tags: education, gardens, Illinois, schools
Posted in Education, English | No Comments »
January 4th, 2010
This episode we welcome Ragan Sutterfeld of Felder School Farm, a school farm located in Little Rock Arkansas that is pioneering the way to get agriculture into our country’s schools. Topics of discussion include barriers to adoption, the agricultural calendar vs. the educational calendar, and agriculture in education.
This idea can be summarized in five words: Turn the Schools into Farms. Now, let’s go out there and make it a reality.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:39 — 31.8MB)
Tags: education, school farms, schools
Posted in Education, English | 1 Comment »
December 22nd, 2009
In this episode of the podcast, I discuss the outcomes of the Cop15 summit in Copenhagen, and put this in the context of a local, grassroots movement to rebuild our society. Topics of discussion include insulating curtains, global warming as a conspiracy, the crisis of civilization, and much more.
Links below:
Warm Window Insulating Curtains
Diet Soap Podcast #36: The Mechanism that I Am (a mystic’s view that people are asleep)
DemocracyNow!
Copenhagen negotiators bicker and filibuster while the biosphere burns (by George Monbiot)
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:14 — 32.4MB)
Tags: climate change, conspiracy, earth democracy, global warming
Posted in English, Global Warming | 2 Comments »
November 30th, 2009
This video interview/photo montage is a talk between myself and Moises Jimenez. Topics of discussion include an introduction to Bolivian agriculture, the life of a Bolivian farmer, the importance of crop rotation and agricultural biodiversity. Part I of II.
This video views best in full screen mode.
Tags: agriculture, bolivia, cochabamba, Farmers, video
Posted in English, Español, Farmers | 5 Comments »
November 16th, 2009
In this second part of a two part interview, Rob Hopkins and I discuss the apolitical nature of transition culture, the construction of parallel systems, and the potential for confrontation with existing power structures. Also discussed is the feasibility of permaculture in a suburban environment.
Useful Links Below
Transitionculture.org
Ralph Nader’s Flight of Fancy
Slow Money Alliance
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:34 — 29.0MB)
Posted in English, Permaculture | 4 Comments »
November 9th, 2009
In this episode, I am joined by Rob Hopkins of transitionculture.org. We discuss the origins of the transition movement and its practical application as a grassroots community organizing strategy. Rob shares with us some potential pitfalls, and we also discuss the differences between collapse and energy descent. This is part I in a two part interview.
For more on Charles Eisenstein, please see http://www.ascentofhumanity.com/
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:45 — 30.9MB)
Tags: climate change, Peak Oil, Permaculture, transition-culture
Posted in English, Permaculture | 2 Comments »
November 2nd, 2009
In this episode of the podcast, I welcome back the topic of Peak Wood and John Perlin’s excellent book “A Forest Journey”. This time John Perlin himself joins me to talk about his book and its many facets. Topics of discussion include the role of wood in civilization, our perceptions of forests through history, the relationship between forests and language, and the parallels between Peak Wood and Peak Oil.
Useful links included below:
John Perlin’s Website
Purchase the book on Amazon.com
Marooned in the Hard Light: An Essay by Neil Kramer
Agroinnovations Episode #66: Peak Wood
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:03 — 32.2MB)
Tags: Forestry, history, john-perlin, Peak Oil, Peak Wood
Posted in English, Forestry | 6 Comments »
October 19th, 2009
In this episode, I am joined by Nelson Lebo, organic farmer, teacher, and Ph.D. candidate in education. Nelson and I discuss today’s crisis in education, and we reframe the debate towards one where permaculture becomes the lynch pin in a strategy to promote personal transformation through hands-on science education. Issues like Peak Oil and climate change are also addressed.
Some useful links are below.
Futurescenarios.org: David Holmgren’s excellent work on the twin crisis of climate change and Peak Oil
The End of Suburbia: You Tube version of the film mentioned by Nelson in the podcast
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 39:47 — 36.5MB)
Tags: climate change, education, Peak Oil, Permaculture, science
Posted in English, Permaculture | 3 Comments »
October 5th, 2009
In this episode, I start by giving a shout-out to Duncan and Jim over at the Kunstlercast, and also by voicing support for KMO’s C-Realm. I give listeners a brief pitch for a new Permaculture-Albuquerque Meetup group facilitated by Agroinnovations.
I then go into a discussion of John Perlin’s book “A Forest Journey: The Role of Wood in the Development of Civilization.” Perlin’s book illustrates nicely the concept of “Peak Wood”, a reality long before Peak Oil was even a possibility. Peak Wood is illustrated in different historical and imperial contexts, including Rome, England, and North America. Peak Wood and Peak Oil are sure to interact in the near future, and we must reassess our relationship to wood and forests so that we can manage our forest resources in a sane and reasonable manner.
Links:
Kunstler Cast: Food in World Made by Hand
Permaculture-Albuquerque Meetup Group
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:16 — 33.3MB)
Tags: civilization, empire, Forestry, history, Peak Oil, Peak Wood
Posted in English, Forestry | 10 Comments »
September 28th, 2009
In this episode, I am joined by Andre Houssney of the Zambian Soap Company. Andre gives us a cultural and historical context of Zambia, discusses the process of developing a soap company in the region, talks us through the production process of organic soap, comments on Fair Trade, and addresses the tension between buying local and supporting access to markets for Zambian producers.
Links:
The Zambian Soap Company: http://www.zambiansoap.com/
The Fair Trade Federation: http://www.fairtradefederation.org/
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:57 — 29.4MB)
Tags: africa, Fair Trade, organic, soap, zambia
Posted in English, Fair Trade | 5 Comments »
September 21st, 2009
In this second of a two part series, we conclude an interview with Gerardo Reyes of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers. Gerarado discusses cases of slavery in the United States, the need to change our mentality, the campaign to improve the rights of agricultural laborers, and the potential linkages between the worker’s rights movement and the local food movement.
Visit the website of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers at http://www.ciw-online.org/
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:16 — 32.4MB)
Tags: Economics, Food, justice, labor, unions, worker's rights
Posted in Economics, English | 1 Comment »
September 14th, 2009
In this episode, I speak with Gerardo Reyes of the Coalition of Imokalee Workers. Gerardo and I discuss the history of agricultural labor in the United States, the current state of workers in Florida and elsewhere, and Gerardo gives us a breakdown of a typical day for an agricultural field worker in the United States.
You can find the Coalition of Imokalee Workers online at http://www.ciw-online.org/
Here is a link to the Agroinnovations twitter page. Follow us, retweet, spread the word! http://twitter.com/agroinnovations
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:14 — 31.5MB)
Tags: justice, labor, unions, worker's rights
Posted in Economics, English | No Comments »
August 31st, 2009
In this interview with Ben Falk of Whole Systems design we discuss permaculture design, plant guilds, permaculture as an animal rights strategy, nitrogen use efficiency, energy descent, and the use of forests as a an energy source.
Links below:
Whole Systems Design
Future Scenarios
The Omnivore’s Delusion (article by Blake Hurst)
Death on a Factory Farm (HBO Documentary)
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:35 — 33.6MB)
Tags: climate change, forest, nitrogen, Peak Oil, Permaculture
Posted in English, Permaculture | 2 Comments »
August 24th, 2009
For Episode #61 of the podcast, I speak with Marisha Auerbach of Herb’n Wisdom.com. Marisha is a permaculture designer living in the Pacific Northwest. We speak about her work with edible flowers and flower essences, the importance of connections in nature and community, and the role of sustainably managed forests.
Also, please take the time to visit Red House Art Radio.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:31 — 31.7MB)
Tags: design, flowers, forests, Permaculture
Posted in English, Permaculture | No Comments »
August 17th, 2009
In this episode, I am joined by Woody Woodruff, founder and director of Red Wiggler CSA Farm. Community Supported Agriculture is now a well known fixture in many places across America. But CSA has begun to transform our social and economic world in many ways. This is exemplified by the work that Red Wiggler Farm is doing to provide disabled adults with meaningful employment. Listen and learn.
Agrotherapy for the Disabled (on Agroblogger.com)
I will not be posting forum threads on Global Swadeshi, as participation has been sparse.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 38:27 — 35.3MB)
Tags: agrotherapy, CSA, social services
Posted in CSA, English | 1 Comment »
July 27th, 2009
Being in a foreign land for a short time is an excellent way to get a rapid fire snapshot of the country and its inhabitants. In this episode I am joined by Mike Mulvaney, who in May of 2009 paid a one month visit to China on a study of plant genetics. Mulvaney’s observations and musings about Chinese agriculture offer a momentary glimpse into the Far Eastern agricultural society in the early 21st century.
Modified Relay Intercropping
Red House Art Radio
Global Swadeshi Thread for this episode
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:14 — 33.3MB)
Tags: Asia, china, chinese agriculture, mulvaney, Soil
Posted in English, Food, Soil | No Comments »
July 21st, 2009
In this episode I conclude my interview with George Mokray about Gandhian economics. Topics of discussion include Gandhi’s view of public policy, Gandhian economics as an alternative to modern social orders, how Gandhi would view the Internet, and Gandhi as a source of inspiration in contemporary society.
Visit Redhouse Art Radio
Alternative Radio Interview with Vandana Shiva
Global Swadeshi Thread for this episode
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:19 — 29.7MB)
Tags: alternative societies, Economics, gandhi, swadeshi
Posted in Economics, English | No Comments »
July 13th, 2009
For episode #57 I am joined by George Mokray, who has read and written extensively about Gandhian economics. Gandhi is often remembered for his civil disobedience and non-violent approach to ending British imperialism, but his economic thought and philosophy is perhaps more fundamental to his strategy for personal and communal liberation. More relevant than ever before, Gandhi’s thinking must be studied and internalized by those who wish to promote real change in our society.
Global Swadeshi Forum Thread
Visit George’s websites via the links below:
http://solarray.blogspot.com/
http://gmoke.dailykos.com
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:27 — 31.7MB)
Tags: Economics, gandhi, swadeshi
Posted in Economics, English | 2 Comments »
June 29th, 2009
In this interview, Peter Donovan and I talk about the difference between divergent and convergent solutions, the utility of policy to mitigate climate change, and the concept of a soil carbon sequestration competition as a means of shifting our strategy.
Visit Peter’s website at managingwholes.com, or visit the Soil Carbon Coalition.
Continue the discussion at Global Swadeshi forum.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:44 — 31.0MB)
Tags: climate change, gcwg, global warming, soil carbon
Posted in English, Holistic Management, Holistic Management, Soil | No Comments »
June 22nd, 2009
Amy Rosenthal, of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), talks about the Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides. How it was created, the general break-down of how it can be used, what it covers and what it doesn’t and why, and we reflect about making food decisions to minimize exposure to harmful pesticide residues.
The list can be found at foodnews.org.
Visit and discuss at the Global Swadeshi Network.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:12 — 29.6MB)
Tags: consumers, Food, organic, pesticides, produce
Posted in English, Food | 1 Comment »
June 15th, 2009
We speak with Jon Steinman of the Deconstructing Dinner radio show, a show created to dispense and discuss current food issues. Topics of discussion include the creation of the Deconstructing Dinner show, the nature of local food community organizing, and the urgency of building fossil-fuel free local food systems.
Global Swadeshi Discussion for Episode #54
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:22 — 33.4MB)
Tags: deconstructing dinner, Food, local, radio
Posted in English, Food | No Comments »
May 25th, 2009
For episode #53 I am I am joined by Mark Hamilton of waldeneffect.org. Mark is a full-time farmer in Appalachia. Topics of discussion include his invention the Avian Aqua Miser, appropriate technology, micro-hydro power, and the local farmer’s market. I conclude with some listener mail regarding discussions of energy use in agriculture. Links below.
Global Swadeshi: Agroinnovations Podcast #53. Another link to the forum at Global Swadeshi. Here you can discuss issues and concepts related to this episode of the podcast.
Waldeneffect.org: Mark Hamilton’s blog, also you can find the Avian Aqua Miser on through this page.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:34 — 32.7MB)
Tags: Appropriate Technology, chickens, Farmers
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English, Farmers | No Comments »
May 18th, 2009
I conclude my interview with Frank van Schoubroeck of LEISA Network. We discuss the feasibility, policy frameworks, and demographics of innovation in Third World agriculture and conclude by discussing concrete actions towards food security that anybody, anywhere can begin to take. Also, have a look at LEISA’s blog, full of interesting information.
In the second half of the podcast I discuss Michael Pollan’s book the “Omnivore’s Dillema” and the energy and fossil fuel implications of industrial agriculture. I conclude with some advice on how to reduce the energy footprint on your kitchen table. Links for this episode below:
Global Swadeshi: Agroinnovations Podcast Episode #52. As promised at the outset. Please participate in the discussion by visiting the Global Swadeshi network and contributing to this and other threads.
LEISA Network: A great source of information, and where to go to sign up for the magazine
LEISA’s Blog: More great information, regularly updated.
Eating Fossil Fuels, by Dale Allen Pfeiffer: Article referenced in the food-energy talk in the second half of the podcast.
Food, Land, Population and the U.S. Economy, by David Pimentel and Mario Giampietro: Another referenced article discussing the relationship between food and energy.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:57 — 34.0MB)
Tags: development, energy, Food, fossil fuels, innovation, LEISA
Posted in English, Farmers, Food | No Comments »
May 11th, 2009
In this episode I am joined by Frank van Schoubroeck of the Center for Information on Low External Inputs and Sustainable Agriculture (LEISA). Frank and I discuss the Center and it’s important magazine work, innovative farmers and their struggles, and the role of global development institutions in fostering innovation in agriculture.
This is part one of a two part interview.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:08 — 30.5MB)
Tags: development, Farmers, LEISA, Third World
Posted in English, Farmers | No Comments »
April 28th, 2009
Dale Enerson is the Director of the National Carbon Credit program for the National Farmers Union. In this interview, Dale and I talk about agricultural carbon offsets, what they are and how they work, the dynamics of the carbon market, and the potential of agricultural offsets to mitigate the effects of global climate change.
Visit the NDFU Carbon Credit website to access the resources Dale mentioned in the podcast.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:19 — 32.5MB)
Tags: climate change, global warming, soil carbon
Posted in English, Soil | No Comments »
April 20th, 2009
For Episode #49, I interview KMO of the C-Realm podcast. Another creative collaboration, KMO and I are releasing concurrent episodes where we interview one another on our respective podcasts. Topics for this episode include the origins and themes of the C-Realm, Peak Oil, the relationship between food and shifting consciousness, and many others.
I will be appearing on episode #150 of the C-Realm podcast. Click on the link and have a listen.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 35:15 — 32.4MB)
Tags: c-realm podcast, KMO, malthusian correction, Peak Oil
Posted in English, Food | Comments Off
April 15th, 2009
Larry Sallee, from Seed and Light International, is an expert in olla, or clay pot, irrigation. In this episode of the podcast, Larry and I have a detailed conversation about olla irrgation, from its origins to its uses in today’s garden.
If you are interested in picking up one of these ollas, then head on over to the East Central Ministries website, where you can get high quality irrigation ollas all while helping a great cause.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:59 — 32.2MB)
Tags: Appropriate Technology, irrigation, ollas, water
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English, Water | No Comments »
April 8th, 2009
In this episode I give users a full update on all news related to the podcast. Topics of discussion are our new website, the changing nature of the Agroinnovations podcast, the new official forum of the podcast, our new podcast license, the work of collaborators on the podcast, and information on our forthcoming episode.
Also, as promised here is a link to East Central Ministries, a great organization doing great work. Go get yourself a clay pot olla for your garden!
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:13 — 13.8MB)
Tags: news, projects, updates
Posted in English, Podcast News | No Comments »
March 9th, 2009
In the second part of my interview with Doug Burdette we talk about aquaculture as a community development strategy, the mechanics of aquaponics, and I read a listener’s comments.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:20 — 15.7MB)
Posted in Aquaculture, English | No Comments »
March 3rd, 2009
Doug Burdette has over 40 years of experience in the area of aquaculture. He has pioneered a number of important technologies in this area. In this interview, we speak with Doug about the history of aquaculture, his aquaculture innovations, and the biological efficiency of aquaculture systems. Visit Doug’s website to learn more.
Part II is next week, where we delve into topics of micro-scale aquaculture and aquaponics. Stay tuned.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:05 — 30.3MB)
Posted in Aquaculture, English | No Comments »
February 23rd, 2009
In this interview I speak with Eric Herm, who blogs at Sonofafarmer.com. Eric is a fourth generation farmer in West Texas who shares his personal story and his perspectives on soil health, Peak Oil, sustainability, and economic collapse. If you want to hear the perspective of farmers who are in the trenches and on the frontlines of the fight for sustainable food production, then listen to this episode.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:39 — 14.0MB)
Posted in English, Farmers | 1 Comment »
February 2nd, 2009
In this episode, I interview Ken Meter of the Crossroads Resource Center. We discuss the state of rural America and the farm economy, and the potential and path from global commodities to local food. Listen, enjoy, and participate.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 37:26 — 34.3MB)
Posted in English, Food | No Comments »
January 26th, 2009
In this first of (hopefully) many collaborative episodes of the podcast, fellow Agrocaster Mike Moon interviews permaculturalist Mark Shepard about his strategies for developing a permaculture on the natural model of transitional upper mid-West savanna ecosystems. Fruits, nuts, and birds abound.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:31 — 14.9MB)
Posted in English, Farmers, Permaculture | 2 Comments »
January 20th, 2009
In this episode, I interview Dr. John Aberth of the University of Vermont, a specialist in the Black Death of Medieval Europe. This is a story of disease, death, and rebirth; a story of resilience in the face of the unknown, and crisis and violence. We stand to learn much from this tragic event. This episode runs over 60 minutes, longer than most, but worth it. Listen and be edified.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 1:03:17 — 57.9MB)
Posted in English | No Comments »
January 12th, 2009
Part II of my interview with Adrian Bowyer deals with two aspects of the reprap project: the global economic implications of distributed fabrication and practical tips for getting Reprap out there in as many hands as possible. Other issues, like economic collapse and Peak Oil are also addressed.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:14 — 25.8MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
January 5th, 2009
In this episode of the podcast I interview Andrew Bowyer of the Reprap Machine Project. Reprap is a self-replicating prototyper with profound implications for the Open Source Appropriate Technology Movement. Listen and learn.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:46 — 14.5MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | 2 Comments »
December 24th, 2008
Local currencies are a key pillar to the sustainability movement. In this episode of the podcast, I interview Sarah Hearn of the The E.F. Schumacher Society. We talk about the Berkshares program that has been developing in the community of Berkshire, Massachusetts since 2006. This is a fascinating topic that is sure to spark ideas and other projects around the country. To learn more about Berkshares, please visit www.berkshares.org.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 36:22 — 16.6MB)
Posted in English | No Comments »
December 16th, 2008
The podcast is back, and in this episode we speak with Mike Mulvaney of Auburn University about no till agriculture and conservation tillage. Also, I reframe the focus of the podcast and give people a taste of what’s to come. Listen, enjoy, and send us your feedback.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:02 — 31.2MB)
Posted in English, Soil | No Comments »
September 28th, 2008
It has been over a month since our last podcast. If you are a frequent listener, do not despair, there is much more to come. Right now, at Agricultural Innovations, we are in a phase of consolidation, and the podcast will definitely reflect that.
I plan to make some modifications to the podcast itself, and make it more dynamic and interactive with other things that are going on on the web, try and get the word out, and make it an even more powerful tool for networking and information sharing. So, if anybody has any suggestions on how to dynamize the podcast, make it more participative, and in the end develop a bigger audience, I’m all ears. I do have some ideas of my own in this regard. And, I I hope to be able to produce more frequent shows, which is a great start. Look forward to feedback.
Posted in Podcast News | 1 Comment »
August 27th, 2008
The Silvery Minnow is a species that has generated controversy and emotion over the years. Its status as an endangered species highlights the importance of knowledge and democratic decision making at a local level to preserve our natural resources.
In this interview, I speak with Michael Porter, Fishery Biologist with the US Army Corps of Engineers. He tells us about the minnow’s life cycle, its importance to a healthy ecosystem, and how this relates back to farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:35 — 14.0MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | 1 Comment »
August 18th, 2008
In this episode, I interview Richard Manning, essayist and author of a number of books about agriculture and civilization. In this interview, we talk with Richard about the beginning of agriculture, the role annual grasses have played in shaping agriculture and civilization, the importance of grasslands, and the key to finding individual food niches within our local food sheds. This one is not to be missed.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 43:57 — 20.1MB)
Posted in English, Food | 3 Comments »
August 6th, 2008
In part two of our interview with Allan Savory, we discuss the process of developing a holisticgoal, the role of monitoring in Holistic Management, and the scientific evidence that supports the claims of Holistic management.
I conclude with a brief summary of the work Agricultural Innovations is doing with Holistic Management International, and some other general comments about the podcast.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:07 — 25.7MB)
Posted in English, Holistic Management | 1 Comment »
July 25th, 2008
Allan Savory is the pioneer of Holistic Management, a decision making framework that has had exceptional success stories in the areas of range and livestock management. In this interview, Allan lays out the basics of Holistic Management, how he discovered it, and how it works. This is part one of a two part series.
Allan is also the founder of Holistic Management International. Please visit their website to learn more.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:16 — 14.8MB)
Posted in English, Holistic Management, Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
June 24th, 2008
En el Altiplano de Bolivia, las condiciones son difíciles, y la pobreza extrema. En este programa, hablamos con Arq. Greby Caillavy, quien es encargado de un proyecto de Ferrocemento en el Altiplano Boliviano. El Arq. Caillavy habla de varios aspectos en la implementación del proyecto, tocando temas técnicas y socioeconomicas en el proceso.
Agradecemos a TERRA Resource Development International por su apoyo en la implementación del proyecto.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 23:06 — 10.6MB)
Posted in Agua, Español | No Comments »
June 10th, 2008
In this episode of the Agroinnovations Podcast I speak with Maryann Frazier, Senior Extension Associate at Pennsylvania State University and an expert on colony collapse disorder (CCD) in bees. This alarming phenomenon has captured the attention of media throughout the country.
In this interview, Maryann takes us through the brief but intense history of CCD, and gives us a concise interpretation of where the scientific evidence to date is leading us. Her conclusions show us that bees themselves are forcing us to reexamine our relationships with agriculture, nature, and land.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:40 — 14.5MB)
Posted in Beekeeping, English, Insects | 5 Comments »
May 22nd, 2008
Marcin Jakubowski is one of the premier pioneers of open source appropriate technology and agricultural innovation. Guided by Gandhi’s principles of swadeshi, Marcin has made great strides in moving towards community-based development and local autonomy. One of his first great innovations is an open source compressed earth block press, which he discusses at length in this podcast.
Listen to this podcast to learn about his ideas and innovations, and visit his blog to follow developments on his farm as they occur.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:29 — 14.0MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English, Permaculture | No Comments »
May 15th, 2008
Hoy conversamos con Arq. Greby Caillavy sobre el proyecto de apicultura que Agroinnovaciones Bolivia esta realizando en la Provincia de Ayopaya, en Cochabamba Bolivia. Arq. Greby habla sobre los estudios que Agroinnovaciones ha realizado, la relacion que se pretende establecer entre el bosque y la abeja, y las estrategias que nuestra empresa esta implementando para lograr un buen desarrollo de la cadena apicola.
Agradecemos a CIOEC Bolivia, al proyecto Ecobona, y especialmente a Intercooperation por su apoyo en la ejecucion de este proyecto.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:22 — 26.0MB)
Posted in Apicultura, Español | No Comments »
May 8th, 2008
In this second part of our interview with Luisa Maffi, we talk about the process of language shift and the activities that indigenous communities around the world are engaging in to preserve and recover their languages.
As with so many other things, the future of the world’s languages will be determined by our values: the values of people in majority linguistic groups, the values of people whose linguistic heritage is endangered, and the values of everyone who falls somewhere in between.
Get involved! Visit www.terralingua.org
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:32 — 14.4MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | No Comments »
May 1st, 2008
Luisa Maffi is the Director of Terralingua, an organization dedicated to the conservation of the world’s biocultural and linguistic diversity. In Part I of this two part series, Dr. Maffi explains the goals and purpose of Terralingua, and then paints a picture of crisis and extinction for our world’s languages. The relationships between language, culture, and biodiversity are profound and poorly understood, and Dr. Maffi’s experience and education come to the fore in this interview.
Stay tuned for Part II, coming in about a week’s time. And yes, it is good to be back podcasting once again.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:03 — 12.8MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | 1 Comment »
April 3rd, 2008
Hello loyal listeners. I know by emails and comments that some of you have been anxious for the podcast to start casting again. Well, I should have some more podcasts here for you, at the latest, by the end of April. From there, expect the stream to keep coming, as I have missed podcasting and am anxious to get back to it.
Now, for anyone who has wanted to get the Agroinnovations Podcast on iTunes, but noticed long ago that the feed was broken, the wait is over. After quite a bit of tweaking and open source collaboration, I have finally gotten the iTunes feed back to form. So, if you have any show suggestions that you would like to hear, let me know. Peace.
Posted in Podcast News | No Comments »
December 29th, 2007
I am currently in Bolivia working on several projects. Unfortunately, I have neither the time, the equipment, or the bandwidth required to do justice to the podcast. I haven’t run out of ideas, far from it. In the future, I am planning on a series that deals with the dawn of agriculture. So be patient, it will be worth the wait.
Thanks to all the people who listen to the podcast and have sent encouraging emails and comments. This might be a good time to tell some friends, family, and colleagues about this podcast. Let them get caught up on some previous shows while we take a break. In the meantime, you might want to check out Agroblogger for some insights into agricultural innovation. Happy Holidays.
Posted in Podcast News | 1 Comment »
November 19th, 2007
This is part two of the Appropedia Roundtable with Lonny Grafman and Curt Beckmann. In this podcast, we discuss Open Source AT (OSAT) in a historical context, and look at some of the tensions and areas where Appropedia must improve if it is to truly have a lasting impact. Thanks for listening.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:13 — 26.7MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
November 8th, 2007
There’s a lot of synergy going in the open source appropriate technology (OSAT) world, and this podcast is a perfect example of that. On the same day that Agroinnovations posted a call for collaborators on the appropedia website, I spoke with Lonny Grafman and Curt Beckmann, founder and system administrator, respectively, of this premier open source AT wiki and online community. If you’re interested in OSAT, then THIS is the podcast to listen to. If you’ve never heard of OSAT, then listen and learn.
Stay tuned for part two, and also an upcoming podcast on ferrocement in Spanish.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 27:17 — 25.0MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
October 22nd, 2007
The Full Belly Project has spent the last several years designing and deploying a simple and cost effective peanut sheller for use in developing countries. They are one of the first organizations to explicitly endorse and apply an Open Source model to appropriate technology.
In this interview, Jeff Rose tells us the history of the project, how it functions, and the service based model that is now emerging from applying Open Source to AT. I also read some listener’s comments. So listen and enjoy.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:08 — 25.8MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
October 11th, 2007
In this episode, we speak with Professor Anil Gupta of the Honey Bee Network. Professor Gupta is a true visionary in the field of appropriate technology and he has dedicated his life to furthering the cause of rural innovators and their inventions.
According to Dr. Gupta, rural innovators are solving problems at such a low cost, that we can no longer afford to ignore their hard work and creativity. His approach presents us with a new model of rural and market development that must be implemented if we are to overcome the obstacles that now face our civilization.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:07 — 31.2MB)
Posted in Appropriate Technology, English | No Comments »
September 5th, 2007
Chuck O’Herron-Alex has designed a highly innovative system for gardening. His design combines microintensive gardens, hoophouses, and raised bed agriculture to create a system that is flexible, productive, and low-cost. Listen to the podcast to learn more, and also visit his website at www.veggiegrower.net.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 16:00 — 14.6MB)
Posted in English, Food | 1 Comment »
August 27th, 2007
This second part in a three part series on food, organized by Kathy Issacson and Phil Pohl, features Jack Mizner of Sandia National Labs. Jack talks us through the idea of carbon footprints and ecological footprints, and uses this concept to show us the differing carbon footprints of two very different meals.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:31 — 29.8MB)
Posted in English, Food | 1 Comment »
August 22nd, 2007
In the second part of our interview with Bill Mollison, Bill’s humor, wisdom, and philosophy are on display as he opines about Peak Oil, global warming, and the future of our planet. This one is not to be missed.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 21:46 — 10.0MB)
Posted in English, Permaculture | 1 Comment »
August 14th, 2007
Last month I had the privilege to speak with Bill Mollison, visionary and creator of the revolutionary and true reality-based design science of permaculture. The interview is published here, so that those of you who are new to permaculture can discover the history of its founder and the nature of the concepts embodied in his philosophy.
This is the first part in a two part series. Please listen and enjoy, and come back soon to hear part two.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 25:52 — 23.7MB)
Posted in English, Permaculture | 3 Comments »
August 2nd, 2007
Ron Golden gives us the break down on Agri-therm’s mobile pyrolysis technology. Pyrolysis is an ancient technology that is being upgraded for the distributed energy economy of the 21st century, and Agri-therm is on the front lines of this transformation. From bio-oil to char, fast pyrolysis produces a number of outputs, all the while being carbon neutral and opening a whole new range of possibilities in agricultural residue management.
You can visit Agritherm’s website to learn more. Thanks for listening, and enjoy the show.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 27:30 — 25.2MB)
Posted in English | No Comments »
July 20th, 2007
In this second part of a two part series, Paul Stamets tells us how mushrooms can indeed help save the world. From remedies for small pox, to revolutionary biological pesticides, and the remediation of toxic wastes, Paul articulates a vision built on the five pillars of mycorestoration.
As Paul describes it, his newest book, Mycelium Running, will be a gateway for other pioneers, and will lead to many important developments in the future. You can purchase Mycelium running and other books at Fungi Perfecti (www.fungi.com). Also, listen to the NPR broadcast Paul refers to in the interview. Thanks Paul, for showing us the way.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 37:59 — 34.8MB)
Posted in English, Mushrooms | No Comments »
July 9th, 2007
Mycologist and visionary Paul Stamets joins us for an hour long interview, presented here in two parts, about mushroom mycelium and how we can use mycelium to help heal the damage that humans are causing to the Earth.
In Part I, Paul takes us on a journey through time, explaining the evolution and role of the mycelial mass in Earth’s history; he then tells us of the symbiosis between humans and mushrooms.
Mushrooms and their mycelium are one of the critical and forgotten components in our ecosystems, and Paul is helping us reinvent our thinking about how we can direct and manage this critical component in so many ways. Enjoy, and stay tuned for Part II.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 28:54 — 26.5MB)
Posted in English, Mushrooms | No Comments »
June 28th, 2007
Today we have the pleasure to begin with the broadcast of a series of shows that will be ongoing over the course of the summer. A group of dedicated citizens has gotten together to create a set of three seminars about food, and we were asked to participate by turning the series into a podcast.
So here is the first installment in a three-part series, featuring Phil Pohl of Sandia National Labs and Greg Gould, self-described foodologist.
To learn more about the speakers, have a look at their websites. Phil Pohl runs Sandia’s Food, Water and Energy program, and Greg has recently been host of the Foodology Show.
Also, special thanks to Kathy Isaacson of Strategic Engagement LLC for organizing these seminars.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:43 — 27.2MB)
Posted in English, Food | No Comments »
May 14th, 2007
Today as a final installment of the Fair Trade series, I speak with Siel from the popular Fair Trade blog greenlagirl.com. Siel tells us about the Starbucks Challenge and how it got started, and she also gives us some insights on Fair Trade from the consumer’s perspective.
Have a listen and please enjoy.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 20:04 — 18.4MB)
Posted in Coffee, English, Fair Trade | No Comments »
April 11th, 2007
Today we delve deeper into the Fair Trade debate, as we host a roundtable discussion with Matt Early of Just Coffee and Demian Luper of Transfair USA. The debate centers around the certification standards and system, and both of our guests address the issue of “greenwashing” from very different perspectives.
This is our first multiple person interview, and adding another voice adds technical complexity at the same time that it adds content richness. Unfortunately, the sound quality isn’t as high as I’d like it to be. Still, the interview is excellent, and I encourage you to listen.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:14 — 26.8MB)
Posted in Coffee, English, Fair Trade | No Comments »
March 21st, 2007
Today we speak with Rodney North, aka the “Answer Man” of Equal Exchange, a mission-based Fair Trade cooperative dedicated to social justice and an improved bottom line for the impoverished farmers of the world.
Rodney gives us the low down on Fair, “greenwashing”, the Fair Trade supply chain, and the debate around moving beyond Fair Trade. This is an excellent and provocative interview for both novices and experts alike, so please have a listen.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:37 — 28.0MB)
Posted in Coffee, English, Fair Trade | 1 Comment »
March 5th, 2007
After a bit of an absence, we are back with some more great content. Today we begin a new series of shows about Fair Trade, with a focus on the coffee industry.
For our first interview, we speak with Patrick Stewart, Director of Marketing for Greenwell Farms/Kona Coffee. Pat gets us up to speed on why Kona is special, how the coffee supply chain functions, and how Fair Trade coffee relates to the coffee market in general. We also talk about the future direction of the industry.
Thanks for joining us, and we plan to have several more great shows about coffee and Fair Trade in coming weeks.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:54 — 31.0MB)
Posted in Coffee, English, Fair Trade | 1 Comment »
February 5th, 2007
In our last CSA focused interview, I spoke with Elizabeth Henderson, organic farmer, CSA pioneer, and author of the book Sharing the Harvest. In researching her book, Elizabeth has visited scores of CSAs across the country. She shares some their stories with us, showing us how CSA has become a catalyst for community development and revival in both rural and urban settings.
Thank you Elizabeth Henderson, Monte Skarsgard, John Peterson, and Elizabeth Keen for introducing us to CSA. Next we’ll be focusing on Fair Trade.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:39 — 27.2MB)
Posted in CSA, English, Farmers | No Comments »
January 24th, 2007
En parte dos de nuestros programas de chirimoya, hablamos con Ing. German Zambrana, encargado del desarollo de un proyecto de chirimoya en el municipio de Mizque, Bolivia. German nos explica los resultados de los estudios participativos que realizaron en el campo, y también las estrategias que propone para lograr una producción sostenible y rentable en Mizque.
Gracias por su participación. dejarnos sus comentarios y sugerencias aquí.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 29:48 — 27.3MB)
Posted in Español, Fruticultura | 2 Comments »
January 16th, 2007
Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) makes our societies freer and more democratic, or so says Farmer Monte Skarsgard of Los Poblanos organic farm. Today the podcast takes a local twist, focusing on a CSA farmer here in our hometown of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Monte talks about the challenges of farming in the desert Southwest, and gives us some tips on why CSA enhances our democracy.
Thanks for joining us, and enjoy the interview.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:05 — 28.5MB)
Posted in CSA, English, Farmers | No Comments »
January 3rd, 2007
Today we have are lucky to speak with John Peterson, who is the focus of the new documentary film The Real Dirt on Farmer John. Farmer John tells us about the death and rebirth of his farm, which was made possible by a lot of hardwork and a complete rethinking of his production model. By going organic and implementing a CSA approach, Farmer John has shown us the way to reverse the collapse of the family-owned farm.
As soon as the movie is showing in theatres, we’ll post some information on the website. Enjoy the show!
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 34:04 — 31.2MB)
Posted in CSA, English, Farmers | No Comments »
December 19th, 2006
As we shift our attention from agricultural biodiversity to community supported agriculture (CSA), we speak with Elizabeth Keen of Indian Line Farm, one of the first CSAs in the country and former farm of the late CSA visionary Robyn Van En.
Elizabeth tells us about Robyn’s life and her vision, and she explains the history and current status of Indian Line Farm. CSA is one of the most promising innovations in agriculture in the past 50 years, so please have a listen to learn more.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:54 — 29.2MB)
Posted in CSA, English, Farmers | No Comments »
December 14th, 2006
Hoy hablamos con Ing. Gustavo Cardenas, experto en la produccion de la chirimoya. Tocamos varios temas interesantes: la poda, el riego, la variabilidad genetica, y otros puntos interesantes sobre este producto con alta potencial economica.
Agradecemos a la Honorable Alcaldia Municipal de Mizque por el apoyo que ha proporcionado en la realizacion de un diagnostico de la potencial de la chirimoya. Proximamente tendremos otro programa que trata de la comercializacion y otros temas que incluimos en nuestra propuesta de intensificacion.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 26:49 — 24.5MB)
Posted in Español, Fruticultura | 5 Comments »
December 6th, 2006
On this final episode dealing with agricultural biodiversity, I speak with Dr. Suzanne Nelson, Director of conservation with Native Seeds/SEARCH. We discuss the mission and work of the organization, and the cultural and biological signifance of the crops of the desert Southwest.
We also touch on the socio-economic implications of agricultural biodiversity, including the effect of NAFTA, and the potential effects of global warming. Next, we’ll be interviewing experts and activists in the area of Community Supported Agriculture
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 33:10 — 30.4MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | 3 Comments »
November 20th, 2006
For most of us, agricultural biodiversity is a topic of unknowns. It is about the crops and foods that we don’t know; foods that we have never seen or tasted.
In this episode, we talk with Emigdio Ballon, who is an expert on the production of highland Andean crops like quinoa, amaranth, and maca. I asked Emigdio about the historical and cultural importance of these crops, and what can be done to preserve these important resources. We also discuss their economic potential, and prospects for achieving a greater market share.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 32:07 — 14.7MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | No Comments »
November 14th, 2006
As we continue this month’s theme of agricultural biodiversity, I interview Rex Dufour, entomologist and organic pest control expert with ATTRA, the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service.
Rex describes the role of insects in the agroecosystem, and emphasizes the importance of preserving biodiversity to control insect pests. As he explains it, beneficial insects can act as “little hammers”, keeping harmful insect populations under control through predation and parasitizing. The key question is how we design our managed ecosystems to maximize these interactions and reduce our reliance on costly agrochemicals.
Please have a listen, and thanks for stopping by.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 31:00 — 28.4MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English, Insects | No Comments »
November 6th, 2006
Welcome to the agroinnovations podcast. This month our focus is on agricultural biodiversity, and we will be interviewing a number of professionals to get a broad perspective on the importance of and the risks facing our agricultural biodiversity.
For our very first epidsode of the agroinnovations podcast, we’ll be interviewing Dr. Walter Kaiser. In this interview, Dr. Kaiser talks about his experiences as a plant pathologist on four continents spanning a period of four decades. Dr. Kaiser gives us insight on germplasm collection, biodiversity, and the cultivation of edible mushrooms. Have a listen, and thanks for stopping by.
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Podcast: Download (Duration: 30:29 — 27.9MB)
Posted in Biodiversity, English | 1 Comment »
