Natural Farming Pioneer: Were quite extreme... perennials have replaced polytunnels Regenerative Media 2024-10-25 | Joshua Sparkes takes us on a deep dive into the world of natural farming, syntropic agriculture, and the future of food systems. We explore how he’s transforming landscapes through perennial crops, fostering biodiversity, and reducing reliance on conventional farming methods like polytunnels. Joshua shares insights on balancing ecosystems, the role of beetles and slugs, and his journey from traditional horticulture to regenerative agriculture. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in sustainable, resilient food systems. Follow Joshua on Instagram: instagram.com/joshua_sparkesFind out more about his work here: woolsery.com/thecollective/birch-farmListen to the full episode on Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/natural-farming-pioneer-were-quite-extreme-perennials/id1776101372?i=1000674422174And Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/3cQtv3f7FYq4PWPfhb7Kgb?si=f3GEhmrBS0yafguNxySrAgThe Huw Richards Show focuses on showcasing people, projects, and ideas that regenerate soil and society.Chapters00:00:00 - Is Natural Farming Effective?00:01:12 - Importance of Biodiversity00:02:25 - Role of Beetles in Ecosystems00:11:41 - Transitioning to Natural Farming00:14:01 - Military Background and Its Impact00:15:47 - Natural Farming Philosophy00:17:23 - Planting for Future Generations00:20:11 - Chefs and Perennial Ingredients00:26:44 - Market Gardens and Community Impact00:28:01 - Syntropic Agriculture Explained00:29:18 - Pruning Techniques in Syntropic Systems00:30:32 - Annuals in the First Year00:32:12 - Long-Term Farming Efficiency00:33:18 - Creating Food Forests00:34:59 - Tree Nesting for Biodiversity00:36:15 - Agroforestry and Income Generation00:40:34 - Comfrey's Role in Biomass00:42:27 - Using Grass for Biomass00:45:03 - Choosing Tools for Farming00:46:48 - Learning from Mistakes in Farming00:48:46 - Observation Over Reaction in Farming00:55:10 - Growing Perennial Foods00:57:40 - Using Trees as Vegetables00:59:40 - Minimal Input Farming Techniques01:01:31 - Sustainability vs. Municipal Compost01:04:24 - Natural Farming Principles01:07:33 - Weeds as Fertility Builders01:08:44 - Digging and Biodiversity Balance01:13:54 - Challenges in Natural Farming01:15:04 - Natural Farming Trends01:16:15 - Cultural Differences in Farming01:17:50 - Importance of Biodiversity01:23:44 - Perennial Vegetables Overview01:25:50 - Future of Perennial Farming01:27:50 - Workshops and Learning Opportunities#naturalfarming #joshuasparkes #thehuwrichardsshow
Market Gardening Tips for Success | Knepp Market Garden Case Study Regenerative Media 2025-02-15 | Learn at Knepp Market Garden: knepp.co.uk/events-at-wilding#marketgarden #organicfarming
How Restaurants Quietly Shape Our Diets | Food Ethics With Geetie Singh-Watson Regenerative Media 2025-01-11 | Restaurants do far more than just serve food—they shape what we eat, how we eat, and even what we think is “normal” on our plates. In this thought-provoking conversation, I sit down with Geetie Singh-Watson, founder of the world’s first certified organic pub, to explore the unseen influence of restaurants on our diets and the wider food system.We dive into the ethics of sourcing, the misleading claims of "seasonal" menus, the power of chefs in shaping public demand, and whether restaurants should be leading the charge in promoting sustainable and lesser-known foods. We also tackle some of the biggest challenges in the industry, from pricing and accessibility to the role of pubs as community hubs, as well as venture into some other areas. If you care about the future of food, sustainability, and how the choices made in restaurant kitchens impact the entire food chain, this episode is not to be missed.
Trees & Livestock are a Very Bad Mix, However,... | Nick Dunn on Agroforestry Opportunities Regenerative Media 2024-12-14 | In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and thought-provoking world of trees and agroforestry with Nick Dunn, Managing Director of the renowned Frank P Matthews Nursery. With decades of experience in horticulture, Nick shares his insights into why embracing non-native trees might hold the key to climate resilience and how agroforestry could revolutionise the way we balance biodiversity and productivity.We also explore the critical role of flavour in tree breeding. Are we sacrificing taste in favour of high-yield, supermarket-friendly varieties? Nick makes the case for "flavour-first" breeding and explains why it matters now more than ever.From practical tips on planting and nurturing trees to a frank discussion about the challenges of integrating livestock with agroforestry, this episode offers fresh perspectives for growers, gardeners, and anyone passionate about the future of sustainable food systems.Frank P Matthews website: frankpmatthews.comListen to the show on Apple:Listen to the show on Spotify:
Creating A Strong Network Of No Dig Market Gardens | Worthy Earth Interview Regenerative Media 2024-12-11 | Today I sit down with Harrison, one of the co-founders of an incredible project worthy-earth.co.uk which is a team of passionate individuals working on designing, maintaining, and consulting market gardens across the UK - starting from Hampshire, Oxfordshire, and Surrey. Find out more about the amazing work they are doing in this informal sit down chat. Follow Worthy Earth on Instagram: instagram.com/worthy_earthWatch the garden tour video here: youtu.be/Pvd0H1YS15g
The Meat Paradox, Truly Sustainable Diets, & Farming in Harmony With Nature | Patrick Holden Regenerative Media 2024-12-07 | Patrick Holden is one of the most respected and pioneering voices in sustainable agriculture. As the founder of the Sustainable Food Trust and a regenerative farming advocate with over five decades of experience, Patrick has dedicated his life to transforming the way we grow, produce, and think about food. In this episode, he tackles some of the most pressing and polarizing questions about meat, climate change, and sustainable diets.Patrick explores the meat paradox—how livestock, often vilified in environmental debates, can play a critical role in building resilient ecosystems. He sheds light on the relationship between farming and nature, the importance of local food systems, and why regeneratively managed livestock could be the key to truly sustainable diets.In this thought-provoking conversation, Patrick shares:-How regenerative farming can restore soil health and capture carbon-Why nutrient-dense, local diets are essential for sustainability-The truth about methane, meat, and the misunderstood climate debate-Working with schools to offer a better food system-And much more!This conversation challenges conventional thinking and offers a hopeful vision for farming and food.Listen on Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/5woJqLoGf996H3iCYWCsTU?si=tu419k6dTPeHUCsVTzHKjgListen on Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-meat-paradox-truly-sustainable-diets-farming-in/id1776101372?i=1000679563428Find out more about the Sustainable Food Trust here: sustainablefoodtrust.org
Farmers & Public VS Fake Farms | A Lively Conversation with Guy Singh-Watson Regenerative Media 2024-12-01 | This is a passionate and detailed argument addressing critical issues in UK agriculture and the role of supermarkets in shaping the food system. Key Issues Highlighted:Supermarket Dominance: Supermarkets have significant control over the food chain, often undermining transparency and fairness for both farmers and consumers.Misleading Marketing: Use of "fake farm" branding and deceptive labelling (e.g., Union Jacks on imported products) misleads consumers about the origins of their food.Low Prices for Farmers: Supermarkets maintain rock-bottom prices for produce, which pressures farmers financially and leads to the consolidation of farms.Intensive Farming Practices: The shift towards industrial-scale farming is harming environmental quality and animal welfare.Public Willingness for Change: Many consumers express a desire to support better farming practices and are willing to make sacrifices, such as paying more or adjusting their expectations around seasonality.Opportunities in Catering and Local Food Systems: There is potential for smaller-scale, transparent food systems to grow, especially in hospitality and direct-to-consumer models.Guy then outlines some proposed solutions to help combat this. Watch the full episode here: youtu.be/6IEDnROkco4?si=gVALjKOCbez_bL4o
Regenerative Agriculture’s Achilles Heel & The Devastating Impact of Annual Crops | Guy Singh-Watson Regenerative Media 2024-11-24 | In this episode I sit down with Guy Singh-Watson - a pioneering organic farmer, entrepreneur, and founder of Riverford Organic Farmers, one of the UK's leading organic veg box delivery businesses.In this in-depth conversation, Guy explores the evolving role of farmers in feeding the world while protecting the environment. He shares his journey from traditional farming to championing employee ownership and perennial crops, and he doesn't shy away from hard-hitting topics like food system flaws, glyphosate debates, and supermarket power.From discussing the devastating impacts of annual agriculture on the environment to his innovative experiments with nut trees and cardoons, Guy offers a unique perspective on farming as a balance between production and regeneration. He also unpacks the cultural and systemic challenges facing the UK's food industry, highlighting the vital need for transparency, fairness, and sustainability in how we grow and consume food.Join us as we dive into everything from practical farming solutions to the broader societal shifts needed for a healthier, more equitable food system. Whether you're a farmer, gardener, or food enthusiast, this conversation will inspire and challenge your thinking about the future of food and farming.Listen on apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/guy-singh-watson-regenerative-agricultures-achilles/id1776101372?i=1000678060657Listen on spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/6SViyxCpW9JACwZsFpY7nH?si=JtgQ6l0NSzaphy8immt6egRiverford Organics: riverford.co.ukGuy's Baddaford Farm: baddaford.co.uk
Inspirational No Dig Market Garden Grows Food, Flowers, & Thriving Communities Regenerative Media 2024-11-22 | Find out more about the incredible work Lawrence and his brother Harrison do through Worthy Earth: worthy-earth.co.uk#nodig #marketgarden #kitchengarden
Seasonal Vs Supermarket: A Strong Case for Fermented Foods with Chef Sam Cooper Regenerative Media 2024-11-08 | In this episode, I sit down with Sam Cooper (Aka Chef Sam Black), a fermentation expert and advocate for sustainable food systems, to dive into the world of fermented foods and their powerful role in reshaping how we eat. Sam challenges the supermarket model of out-of-season, “fresh-looking” produce, making a bold case for the natural rhythms of fermentation and seasonal eating.Discover how home fermentation not only preserves peak flavour but also promotes sustainability, reduces food waste, and deepens our connection with the microbial world. Sam shares insights on everything from the techniques of fermentation across cultures (such as Koji and Garum) to tips for fermenting at home—plus, why “germ phobia” might be holding us back from embracing some of the most nutrient-dense, flavourful foods. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about elevating their food experience, gut health, and exploring a more sustainable approach to eating.Follow Sam on Instagram: instagram.com/chef.sam.blackGet his book The Fermentation Kitchen: geni.us/TheFermentationKitchenThe Art of Salt Preserving Course: thegrowersguild.teachable.com/p/the-art-of-saltListen to this episode:Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/7kMoJrV9P6eCuaCZez06wSApple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/seasonal-vs-supermarket-a-strong-case-for-fermented/id1776101372?i=1000676207430#probiotic #guthealth #nutrition
Perennial Vegetables Offer KEY Opportunities For Small-Scale Farms Regenerative Media 2024-11-06 | A chat with Mandy Barber of incrediblevegetables.co.uk as we dive into the transformative power of perennial crops for market gardens! Discover why small-scale farmers are turning to resilient, perennial vegetables to enhance productivity, adapt to climate pressures, and gain an edge over traditional grocery stores. From Everlasting Onions to perennial tubers, learn how these crops are changing the game and offering unique advantages for growers and customers alike. Perfect for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture, sustainable farming, and food innovation.Chapters00:00:00 - Introduction to Perennial Vegetables00:00:33 - Market Garden Integration Challenges00:02:00 - Growing Perennials in Marginal Areas00:02:26 - Customer Acceptance of Perennials00:03:08 - Gateway Perennial Vegetables00:04:32 - High-Yielding Perennial Crops00:07:46 - Exploring Perennial Tubers00:10:47 - Consultation for Market Gardeners00:12:53 - Conclusion and Future of Perennials
Syntropic Agriculture & How It Can Transform the Future of Farming | Joshua Sparkes Regenerative Media 2024-11-01 | Natural Farming Pioneer and Syntropic Farmer Joshua Sparkes talks about what is syntropic agriculture, how he uses it on Birch Farm, and how it can drive sales in the first growing season. Watch the full chat here: youtu.be/KR6rCm8PdXUListen to the full episode on Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/natural-farming-pioneer-were-quite-extreme-perennials/id1776101372?i=1000674422174And Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/3cQtv3f7FYq4PWPfhb7Kgb?si=f3GEhmrBS0yafguNxySrAg
The Role Nut Orchards Can Play For a Sustainable Diet | Martin Crawford Regenerative Media 2024-10-29 | Martin Crawford shares thoughts on the transformative potential of nut orchards as a sustainable source of energy-dense food, perfect for resilient food systems. Drawing from years of experience, he highlights the role of nut trees—such as hazelnuts, chestnuts, and walnuts—not only as nutritious, low-maintenance food sources but also as key elements in regenerative agriculture.Buy his orchard book here: agroforestry.co.uk/product/how-to-grow-your-own-nutsFind out more about his work: agroforestry.co.uk#agroforestry #nutorchard #foodsecurity
From Plant to Pigment | The Future of Small-Scale Organic Dye Production Regenerative Media 2024-10-18 | In this video, Sophie Holt from Organic Pigment Dyes based at baddaford.co.uk shares her journey of growing organic dye plants and supporting adults with learning disabilities through meaningful, hands-on work. Discover how she connects her love for textiles and horticulture to create a social enterprise that promotes sustainability and ethical practices in the clothing industry. Learn more about the importance of natural dyes and the role they play in reshaping our relationship with the land. Visit Sophie's website: pigment.org.uk/shop#OrganicFarming#NaturalDyes#SustainableFashion
Inspirational 150 Acre Regenerative Farm in the Scottish Highlands Regenerative Media 2023-04-28 | This video features the incredible work happening Lynbreck Croft, run by Lynn Cassells and Sandra Baer. They are transforming what was a rather degraded landscape into a landscape rich in wildlife, thriving soil, and of course highly-nutritious food for themselves and their community. The croft is located in the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland; a sub-artic wilderness. The key elements of the croft includes rotational grazing, pasture eggs, tree planting, horticulture, wood fuel, pigs, and beekeeping. Lynbreck Croft: lynbreckcroft.co.ukFollow Lynbreck Croft's Journey: instagram.com/lynbreck_croftRegenerative Films aims to share the stories of people and projects that are regenerating ourselves, our soils, and our communities. Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/regenerative.media#regenerativeagriculture
Beautiful 8 Acre Permaculture Farm Combines Trees, Livestock, and a Productive CSA Market Garden Regenerative Media 2022-01-29 | Following on from the Agroforestry video we made @TapoNothFarm, we now look more deeply into their whole farm design, way of life, thoughts on regenerative agriculture, and their beautiful homestead. From keeping goats for making cheese and using the manure for the market garden, to using chickens as forest birds to help with managing and developing forest gardens, Tap o' Noth Farm have created a truly magical permaculture paradise in Scotland.You can visit their YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCb9U...And also their Instagram: instagram.com/tapfarmFind out more about their Tap Retreat: instagram.com/tap_retreatRegenerative Films aims to share the stories of people and projects that are regenerating ourselves, our soils, and our communities. Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/regenerative.media#agroforestry #permaculture #regenerativeagriculture
The Incredible Benefits of Agroforestry on Small Farms | Introduction to Agroforestry Regenerative Media 2022-01-01 | In this video, we visit James from@TapoNothFarm in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Tap o' Noth is an incredible 8-acre agroforestry permaculture small farm that integrates crops and animals alongside perennial planting. By using inspiration from how this land would be if left fully to Nature, James and his partner Rosa are using that to their advantage to create a place that not only produces food and fuel, but also makes Nature a core part of their whole operation. From watching this video you will learn exactly what Agroforestry is, how it benefits farmers, plenty of examples of types of Agroforestry in action and what is needed to help make this amazing method more common in our food system. Agroforestry is a core element of Regenerative Agriculture. You can visit their YouTube channel here: youtube.com/channel/UCb9UTvg1MEbLrAOS1bGEX1QAnd also their Instagram: instagram.com/tapfarmRegenerative Films aims to share the stories of people and projects that are regenerating ourselves, our soils, and our communities. Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/regenerative.media#agroforestry #permaculture #regenerativeagriculture
Regenerative Farm Combines Ducks and Blueberries | Parc Carreg Duck Eggs, Wales Regenerative Media 2021-12-07 | In this video, we visit Josh and Abi Heyneke from Parc Carreg Organic Duck Eggs in Wales, UK. Parc Carreg is a regenerative farm that focuses on so much more than just duck eggs, and his approach to producing sustainable food from the land is such an inspiration. We hear all about why ducks are more suitable than chickens in wet areas, the role their small flock of sheep play in managing the boundaries, why goose meat is perhaps the most regenerative meat there is, the challenges of creating such a niche business, and much more!Parc Carreg's Website: parccarreg.comFollow the Flock on Instagram: instagram.com/parccarregFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/regenerative.media
Inspiring Small-Scale Market Gardens Approach to Connecting People with Food | Permaculture Ethics Regenerative Media 2020-11-21 | In summer 2020 we visited Glasbren market garden. It is located a few miles east of Carmarthen, Wales, and produces 50 veg boxes a week for its local community and has a hugely inspiring vision for the future. Here is a film that highlights their ethos in terms of the importance of connecting with nature and how regenerating our soils can regenerate our local communities. Their refreshing outlook on how we can produce food brings hope for the future, and it is great to see food producers who prioritise things like mental health and not just growing for productivity. The benefits for our mental health of being close with nature is also clearly demonstrated with how they approach market gardening. We must remember that regenerative agriculture is more than just regenerating our soils, it is also about regenerating ourselves and our communities for a more resilient and sustainable future. A huge thanks to Glasbren for their time: facebook.com/GlasbrenCSAMany thanks to Eifion Jones for producing this film: http://www.torchydesign.co.ukFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/regenerative.media
Self-Sufficient Grower Feeds 20 Families on Only 0.5 Acres | Regenerative Films Regenerative Media 2020-10-07 | Liz Zorab has an incredible permaculture setup on a micro-smallholding, with the vegetable garden and food forest being a total of 0.5 acres! Liz produces 85% of her family's annual food needs, and on top of that runs a micro-CSA Veg Box scheme that feeds 20 local families. This is the perfect example of what can be done in a small space.Huge thank you to Liz Zorab: youtube.com/c/LizZorabFind out more about Community Supported Agriculture here: communitysupportedagriculture.org.ukRegenerative Films shares the stories of the most inspiring local food projects that are going above and beyond sustainability to regenerate our soil, health and society.
