The Permaculture Consultant : Discovering Permaculture Changed His Familys Life Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-04-17 | Stefan Sobkowiak sits down with William Bond owner of the YouTube channel The Permaculture Consultant as he explains how discovering Permaculture changed his family's life forever.Check out & SUBSCRIBE to Williams YouTube channel youtube.com/@UC8I_-lIus_Z-fNkvoCkJ4DA 0:00 Welcome & Introduction to William Bond3:15 How Discovering Permaculture Changed His Family’s Life8:40 Father-Son Dynamics: Working with Dad (Billy Bond)14:20 Starting YouTube & The Permaculture Consultant Channel20:10 The Permaculture Pimpcast Story & “Pimp Daddy”27:30 Building a Permaculture Consulting Business34:45 Mindset Shift: Seeing Food Everywhere in Ecosystems42:10 Community, Resilience & Why You Can’t Do It All Alone50:30 Advice for Father-Son Teams & Family Businesses58:15 Making a Living with Permaculture Consultations1:05:40 Challenges, Side Topics & Keeping It Real1:13:20 Final Thoughts & Inspiration for the Next Generation_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442
John Kempfs Plant Health Secrets : From Boron Deficiency to Superorganism Soil Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-09-18 | John Kempf is back for round two, and this conversation goes even deeper than the first. Stefan and Zack sit down with the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture to unpack limiting factors, plant nutrient cycles, and the wild story of an elderly grower whose "programmed" seedlings outgrew everything nearby, including a rosebush that turned into a 20-foot monster. From there, the discussion moves into quorum sensing, the point where soil microbiomes stop competing and start behaving as a single superorganism, and how that shift unlocks disease and insect resistance long before chemistry ever gets involved. John also shares striking research linking cotton drought stress to later yield gains, zinc's role in inhibiting viruses, and a sobering correlation between soil selenium levels and COVID outcomes. The back half turns personal, with a Fast Five covering favorite fruit, regional mineral deficiencies, and a meaningful Bible verse, before circling back to herbicides, the Amish approach to technology, and how farmers can start repairing soil damaged by years of chemical inputs. If you care about the biology behind healthy food, this one will change how you look at every plant in your yard. Grab a coffee, settle in, and enjoy.CHAPTERS0:00 Intro2:47 Understanding Limiting Factors6:55 The Fred Fields Cherry Tree Story15:18 Ancient Genetics and Meteor-Era Switches22:07 Seeds, Microbiomes, and Genetic Information26:22 The Cotton Yield Mystery37:22 Quorum Sensing Explained45:37 The Plant Health Pyramid55:24 Fast Five: Favorite Fruit and Regional Deficiencies62:18 Glyphosate, Lithium, and Mental Health67:54 Fast Five: John's Favorite Bible Verse72:02 How Herbicides Shape Farming Recommendations83:09 Where to Find John Kempf's WorkGUEST LINKSPodcast: Regenerative Agriculture Podcast AI Tool: FieldLark.ai — an AI agronomist trained on John's research and AEA protocolsCompany: Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA)Social Networking Platform: Kind Harvest — social platform for agriculture YouTube: youtube.com/@AdvancingEcoAgricultureBlog: Stefan specifically praised John's blog as a deep-dive resource — search John Kempf's name to locate it#JohnKempf #RegenerativeAgriculture #QuorumSensing #SoilHealth #PermacultureOrchardPodcast_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's FREE E-Book : permacultureorchardblueprint.comStefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with John Kempf: The Mineral Deficiency Hiding Behind Half of America Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-09-11 | John Kempf came back for round two — and this time we hit him with the Fast Five, five rapid-fire questions pulled straight from the full interview. He tells us the one book he'd want everyone to read, the U.S. policy he'd enact if he could, and his favorite fruit (spoiler: it's about the biggest flavor gap between a poorly grown and a perfectly grown crop of anything). Then things get deep fast — he names the mineral he thinks is quietly limiting agriculture across more than half the country, and connects it to bee health and even human mental health. He closes with a Bible passage that's shaped decades of his thinking on soil minerals and microbiology. Five questions, way more than five insights. Full interview linked below.THE FAST FIVE1. What book would you recommend everyone read?2. If you could establish one U.S. policy, what would it be?3. What's your favorite fruit or flavor profile?4. If you had to name one soil mineral that's a limiting factor across more than half the country, which would it be and why?5. What passage or verse has given you the most thought and inspiration in your work?_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Permaculture Soil Expert Matt Powers: Shares The Mycorrhizal Mistake Nobody Talks About Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-09-04 | Soil biologist Matt Powers joins the Permaculture Orchard Podcast to reveal what mainstream soil science gets wrong — and how it's costing your trees.From playing bass with SNL's house drummer to training Elaine Ingham's team, Matt's journey is as wild as it is instructive.If you grow food on living soil, this episode will change how you see every root, every fungus, and every mulch layer beneath your orchard.What does a New York City session bassist have to teach the world about soil biology? As it turns out — everything. In this episode, Stefan and Zack sit down with Matt Powers, regenerative educator, author, and one of the most original thinkers in the permaculture soil world, for a conversation that wanders beautifully from music theory and brain plasticity all the way down to the rhizosphere beneath your fruit trees.Matt shares the deeply personal story behind his shift from professional musician to soil researcher — a journey triggered by his wife's cancer diagnosis, a move to rural California, and a desperate need to understand what healthy food actually means. What he found when he finally looked through a microscope at living roots changed his understanding of mycorrhizal fungi entirely, and eventually led to his images being used to train Elaine Ingham's own team.Along the way, the three of them dig into why conventional soil science mathematics literally removes air from its calculations, how roller crimping is quietly revolutionizing orchard floor management, why most commercially applied mycorrhizal inoculants are wasted money, and how a Peruvian corn grown at thirteen thousand feet ended up thriving in a Texas orchard.This one is rich, wide-ranging, and genuinely joyful. Pull up a chair — or better yet, go sit under one of your trees and hit play.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro1:22 Meet Matt Powers2:43 Music, Brain Plasticity & Learning6:47 From Olympic Coaching to SNL's Drummer9:28 Why Matt Had to Start From First Principles16:18 Matt's Origin Story: From Musician to Soil Scientist21:48 Wife's Cancer Diagnosis & the Life-Changing Pivot23:05 Leaving the Dream Job & Discovering Permaculture39:37 Fast Five: Books, Hope & the Microscope Discovery40:51 Mycorrhizal Myths & the Root Light Discovery51:46 Scaling Soil Education Beyond Universities55:56 Rare Peruvian Corn & Living Soil Projects62:42 Roller Crimping, Cover Crops & No-Herbicide Orchards70:57 Regrets, Gratitude & Where to Find Matt🔗 GUEST LINKSWebsite: RegenerativeSoilScience.comWebsite: ThePermacultureStudent.comYouTube: Search "Matt Powers" or "Matt Powers Regenerative Soil Science and Permaculture"Instagram: @MattPowersSoilSearch: "Matt Powers" on Google — he occupies the entire first page#MattPowers #SoilBiology #PermacultureOrchard #RegenerativeAgriculture #FoodForest_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Matt Powers: The Microscope Discovery That Changed Everything Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-08-28 | What happens when you put a microscope in front of someone who refuses to stop asking questions? You get Matt Powers — and you get answers that will make you rethink nearly everything you thought you knew about your orchard soil.In this rapid-fire Fast Five, Matt reveals the microscope moment that overturned accepted wisdom about mycorrhizal fungi and composting — and why almost nobody in the industry was even checking if their inoculants worked. He shares the books he'd hand to any serious orchardist, the student success story that fills him with real hope, and the utterly wild Peruvian landrace corn he's been quietly domesticating under an oak tree in conditions universities called impossible.If the full episode opened the door, this five-minute sprint kicks it clean off the hinges. Catch the full interview on the Permaculture Orchard Podcast.⚡ THE FAST FIVE1. What's one surprising discovery you've made under the microscope that changed how you garden or farm?2. What's one book or resource — besides your own — that every permaculture orchardist should read?3. What gives you the most hope and joy right now?4. What's one seed or plant variety you're most excited about?5. What's your top DIY tip for someone struggling with their climate — whether it's too dry, too wet, or too extreme?_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Justin Rhodess Homestead Story: From Daily Vlogs to Building a Multi-Generational Farm Legacy Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-08-21 | Justin Rhodes — homesteader, filmmaker & YouTube pioneer — joins the Permaculture Orchard Podcast to share why commitment to land beats everything.He visited all 50 U.S. states, documented a decade of daily homestead life, and still says the single biggest mistake people make is waiting to start.Whether you're growing food on a windowsill or managing 50 acres, this conversation will change how you think about land, legacy, and abundance.Justin Rhodes is one of the most recognizable names in the homesteading and permaculture world — a daily vlogger before vlogging had a name, a documentary filmmaker who crossed all 50 American states in a school bus with his family, and a creator who turned a genuine love for rooted living into Abundance Plus, a thriving membership platform. In this episode, Stefan and Zack sit down with Justin for a rich, wide-ranging conversation that moves from content creation and family legacy all the way to orchard resilience, rotational grazing, and the deep psychology of staying committed to a piece of land.Justin opens up about balancing the travel bug with the non-negotiable demands of a working homestead, why his children learned entrepreneurship through osmosis rather than lectures, and how Joel Salatin's son Daniel shaped his own thinking about passing the farm on to the next generation. He and Stefan trade notes on water management, the value of visiting other farms, and why North Carolina ended up being home.The episode includes the fan-favourite Fast Five segment, where Justin's book recommendations, favourite tools, and quick tips on orchard recovery after a hurricane land with refreshing honesty. He closes with a quietly powerful argument: document your journey from day one, build your community online, and above all — just start. From a basil plant in a terracotta pot on a moving school bus to a legacy homestead, Justin's story is proof that momentum matters more than perfection. Don't miss it.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro1:29 Welcome Justin Rhodes2:49 Daily Vlogging, YouTube & Evolving as a Creator4:11 Documenting Life Before Vlogging Existed6:52 Why Family on Camera Was the Secret Weapon8:16 Homeschooling, Values & Raising Entrepreneurial Kids13:40 Joel Salatin, Daniel & Passing the Farm to the Next Generation19:08 The Travel Bug vs. Commitment to the Land27:24 Lessons from Visiting All 50 States31:24 Orchard Resilience: Neglect, Replacement & Finding What Wants to Grow39:45 Fast Five Begins50:29 Book Recommendations That Changed Everything55:56 Defining Abundance: The Aha Moment61:04 Just Start: Basil on a School Bus & Final Wisdom🔗 GUEST LINKSYouTube: search "Justin Rhodes"Membership platform: Abundance Plus#JustinRhodes #PermacultureOrchard #HomesteadLife #AbundantPermaculture_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Justin Rhodes: Savanna Orchards, Storm Resilience & the Joy of Moving Animals Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-08-14 | What happens when you put Justin Rhodes in the hot seat for five rapid-fire questions? You get chickens as the undisputed beginner livestock, a surprisingly honest confession about the broadfork, and a mindset book recommendation that has absolutely nothing to do with homesteading — yet might be the most important thing he's ever read. This is the Fast Five, our quick-fire segment where Justin answers off the dome, and the answers go places you won't expect — from silage tarps and under-sowing cover crops to hurricane Helene, family lamb stew, and why eating food you personally loved might matter more than any farming technique. Pull up a chair.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro0:30 Q1: Best Gateway Livestock or Plant?1:00 Q2: Most Underused Tool or Technique?9:58 Q3: Book or Mentor That Surprised You?12:07 Q4: Orchard Resilience After a Storm?13:26 Q5: What Brings You the Most Joy?_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
John Kempfs Agronomic Revolution : From Soil Biology to the Future of Regenerative Agriculture Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-08-07 | John Kempf on plant immune systems, regenerative orchard nutrition & why most growers are working against their crops.One of the most listened-to voices in regenerative agriculture joins Stefan & Zack to reveal what mainstream agronomy still gets wrong — and what's possible when you stop managing deficiency and start building biology.Stefan has called John Kempf the voice he listens to more than anyone else in the podcast world — so having him on the Permaculture Orchard Podcast feels like a genuine milestone. John is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA), host of the Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, and one of the most rigorous thinkers working at the intersection of plant science, soil biology, and farm profitability. He started on an Amish farm, watched conventional inputs push his family's operation toward a dead end, and decided — without the internet — to read his way to a different answer. That curiosity never stopped.In this conversation, John and Stefan (with Zack right alongside him) go deep on why photosynthesis is not the constant science assumes it is, how plants possess a genuine immune system that transfers protection all the way up the food chain to us, and why nitrogen excess is quietly undermining flavor, storage life, and pest resistance on orchards everywhere. John explains the seed microbiome, biological transmutation, the real ceiling on what a healthy corn plant can achieve, and why the "ideal sales process" his company tries to follow is one that leaves the farmer needing fewer inputs over time — not more.There's philosophy here too: how John reads and retains at extraordinary speed, the power of language in shaping belief, and his vision for regenerative agriculture on eighty percent of farmland within a generation. This one goes places very few agronomists are willing to go. Pull up a chair.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro1:22 Meet John Kempf4:03 Growing Up Without the Internet: A Voracious Reader is Born6:53 Down the Rabbit Hole: Biophotonics & the Book That Changed Everything10:53 The Seed Microbiome: Billions of Organisms in Every Seed19:02 How John Reads 100 Pages an Hour & Retains It All27:07 Synthesizing Knowledge: Finding the Gaps Science Misses37:54 Plant Immune Systems: What Mainstream Agronomy Still Denies42:10 Fast Five: Quick-Fire Questions with John Kempf55:36 Quick Win: Avoid Nitrogen Excess to Unlock Flavor & Storage Life59:33 The Vision for Regenerative Agriculture & Healthy Landscapes73:09 Plant Immunity → Human Health: The Transfer Nobody Talks About83:55 Biological Transmutation: The Science Too Strange to Ignore97:32 Where to Find John Kempf & Closing Thoughts🔗 GUEST LINKSPodcast: Regenerative Agriculture Podcast AI Tool: FieldLark.ai — an AI agronomist trained on John's research and AEA protocolsCompany: Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA)Social Networking Platform: Kind Harvest — social platform for agriculture YouTube: youtube.com/@AdvancingEcoAgricultureBlog: Stefan specifically praised John's blog as a deep-dive resource — search John Kempf's name to locate it#RegenerativeAgriculture #PlantImmuneSystems #PermacultureOrchard #SoilHealth #JohnKempf_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with John Kempf: The Foliar Trick That Cuts Your Inputs in Half Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-31 | What happens when you put one of regenerative agriculture's sharpest minds into the hot seat? This is the Fast Five — our rapid-fire five-question segment — and John Kempf of Advancing Eco Agriculture does not disappoint. He opens with a foliar tweak so simple and cheap it almost sounds like a joke: add sugar to your spray tank. From there things get philosophical fast, with John reframing an entire question about microbes into a compelling case for plant-family diversity, and then reaching into MIT leadership theory to explain why your inner world might be the most underrated input on your farm. He closes with a deceptively powerful question he asks every grower he works with — one that could quietly reshape how you think about everything you grow.CHAPTERS0:00 Intro0:19 Q1: Foliar Tweak Every Orchardist Should Try2:17 Q2: Best Plant or Microbe for Cold Climate Resilience8:10 Q3: Book or Mentor Insight That Still Surprises You13:31 Q4: Quick Win for Fruit Flavor and Storage Life17:27 Q5: One Question to Spark Better Results_______________________________________** NEW ** Get Stefans E-Book The Permaculture Orchard Blueprint for FREE here : permacultureorchardblueprint.comStefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Im Giving Away my New Book for FREE! (NOT Clickbait) Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-29 | Get my NEW E-Book 100% FREE at permacultureorchardblueprint.com "Just Start" Today!_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Susan Poizners Incredible Journey : From Broken Playground to Thriving Community Orchard Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-24 | Fruit tree care, community orchards & surprising soil secrets — Susan Poizner of Orchard People joins the Permaculture Orchard Podcast.Susan planted her first fruit trees in a public park in 2009 with zero experience — what happened next shaped 17 years of teaching and five books.From grafting breakthroughs to Coca-Cola foliar sprays, this episode is packed with hard-won orchard wisdom you won't hear anywhere else.Susan Poizner — author, podcast host, and founder of OrchardPeople.com — started where most of us never dare: she planted fruit trees in a public park, in full view of skeptical city officials, with almost no experience. That bold, slightly terrifying decision back in 2009 turned into a 17-year community orchard in Montreal and, eventually, one of the most trusted fruit tree education platforms in the world. Stefan and Zack sit down with Susan to unpack all of it.We talk about what it actually takes to keep a community orchard alive — champion allies inside city hall, volunteer burnout, chipmunks stripping every plum before it ripens, and the surprisingly simple QR-code trick that transforms curious park visitors into informed harvesters. Susan shares her hard-earned framework for choosing the right tree for your climate zone, why your very first pruning cut happens the day you plant a bare-root tree, and what a foliar spray of diluted Coca-Cola has to do with feeding your soil microbiome.She also opens up about grafting — a skill that felt like surgery until one patient mentor changed everything — and explains why a heavily loaded tree might actually be sensing its own death.Whether you are dreaming of a backyard orchard, navigating a community growing project, or ready to go deep on soil biology and insect ecology, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are. Pull up a chair — this one is worth every minute.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro1:25 Susan's Origin Story : Journalism to Fruit Trees4:14 Getting a City On Board : Navigating Parks & Politics8:16 When Champions Leave : The Fragility of Community Projects12:25 17 Years Later : How the Park Orchard Looks Today17:57 Educating the Public : Unripe Apples & Harvesting Etiquette22:06 Chipmunks, Seeds & the 50% Harvest Window24:50 QR Codes & Smart Signage for Community Orchards41:30 Why Pruning Matters : Shape, Quality & Tree Health46:57 Quickest Soil Win for New Orchardists51:05 Most Surprising Podcast Discovery : Foliar Sprays & Soil Biology59:06 Grafting Demystified : It's Easier Than You Think63:29 Choosing the Right Tree : Hardiness Zones, Chill Hours & Pollination70:19 Final Advice : What Susan Wishes She Knew From Day One🔗 GUEST LINKSWebsite & Articles: orchardpeople.comPodcast: Orchard People podcast (accessible at orchardpeople.com; last 50 episodes also on YouTube)YouTube: Orchard People YouTube channelBooks: Available on Amazon (search "Susan Poizner" — five titles; page also listed at orchardpeople.com)Instagram: Susan Poizner (she confirms she is on Instagram; handle not stated verbally — confirm with Susan before publishing)#FruitTrees #CommunityOrchard #PermacultureOrchard #OrchardPeople #FoodForest_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Susan Poizner: The Pruning Mistake Thats Killing Your Fruit Trees Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-17 | Think permaculture means leaving your fruit trees alone? Think again. In this rapid-fire Fast Five segment, orchard educator and podcaster Susan Poizner fires back with answers that will genuinely surprise you. She names the single most common mistake she sees in permaculture orchards — and it's not what most people expect. She shares why there's no such thing as the "best" fruit tree variety, only the right one for your unique conditions. And then things get truly unexpected: Susan reveals the most surprising thing she's learned from a decade of interviewing experts, and it involves a certain fizzy soft drink and your tree's leaves. Warm, generous, and packed with real knowledge, Susan is the kind of guest who turns a five-question segment into a masterclass.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro0:17 Q1: Biggest Pruning Mistake?3:17 Q2: Most Underrated Fruit Tree for Canada?6:25 Q3: Quickest Win for Soil Life?10:33 Q4: Most Surprising Podcast Discovery?13:36 Q5: Dream Orchard Project?_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Urban Farmer Curtis Stone: From Rockstar Dreams to Off-Grid Homesteading Legend Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-10 | Curtis Stone reveals how he walked away from a thriving market garden business to build a true off-grid homestead from scratch.From rock musician to tree planter to urban farming legend to mountain homesteader — Curtis Stone's journey is unlike anything we've heard on this show.If you've ever felt the pull toward real freedom and land, this episode will light a fire under you.Curtis Stone is one of those rare people whose life reads like five lifetimes rolled into one. Stefan and Zack sit down with the man many know as the urban farming and market gardening pioneer — the guy who helped a generation of "farmreneurs" realize that growing food could actually pay the bills — and discover that Curtis has quietly gone through an extraordinary reinvention since they last crossed paths back in 2018.Before the farming fame, there was a music career, nine years of tree planting across the mountains of British Columbia, a deep self-education in banking systems and sovereignty, and a restless entrepreneurial mind that never stops looking for the next door to open. When the world shifted in 2020, Curtis made a decisive move: he packed up city life, bought land in the mountains of BC, and began building a genuine off-grid homestead almost from scratch — learning water management, soil building, food forest design, and off-grid infrastructure the hard way, season by season.In this conversation, the three dig into the analytics mindset behind serious farming, the 7-to-10-year learning-curve itch that drives reinvention, the importance of observation before action, copper bioharmonics, favourite perennial crops for cold climates, and why owning your mistakes is the most powerful business tool you'll ever use.This is one of those episodes you'll want to listen to twice. Pull up a chair.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro1:23 Curtis Stone's First Appearance on the Channel2:46 The Pivotal Moment: Leaving the City for the Homestead7:01 Curtis's Backstory: Music, Tree Planting & Early Awakening9:35 The Life-Changing Two-and-a-Half-Month Road Trip13:42 The 7-to-10-Year Itch: How Curtis Reinvents Himself22:13 Market Garden Analytics: Minutes Per Bed & Entrepreneurial Eye26:12 Nine Years as a Tree Planter: Records, Rain & Resilience41:14 Fast Five: Favourite Tree, Most Impactful Person & More54:55 Six Years Building the Mountain Homestead57:38 Copper Bioharmonics & Soil Experiments70:01 Lessons on Risk, Observation & Water Management76:52 Homestead Advice: Start Simple, Know Your Land's Limits83:47 Owning Your Mistakes: The Most Powerful Business Principle87:22 Where to Find Curtis Stone & Closing Thoughts🔗 GUEST LINKSYouTube: search "Offgrid with Curtis Stone"Website / Courses: freedomfarmers.comTwitter/X: @offgridstone#CurtisStone #OffGridLiving #PermacultureOrchard #HomesteadLife #FoodForest_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Curtis Stone: Mulberries, Joel Salatin & Real Freedom Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-07-03 | Think you know what a market gardener would say in a rapid-fire interview? Curtis Stone might surprise you. This is the Fast Five — our quick-hit, five-question segment — and Curtis wastes no time delivering answers that go well beyond the garden bed. He picks the same tree three other guests have picked (and explains exactly why it makes sense on a cold Canadian mountaintop), names Joel Salatin as his most influential figure for reasons that have nothing to do with farming, and goes deep on the one topic he wishes more people would research — hint: it starts with how banks actually print money. He wraps it up with a humble, delicious answer about the perennial crop he literally just finished eating from last season. Strap in.⏱️ CHAPTERS0:00 Intro0:15 Q1: Favourite Tree?1:47 Tree Time Plug2:15 Q2: Most Impactful Person?4:30 Q3: Favourite Shrub?6:21 Q4: What Needs More Research?11:55 Q5: Favourite Edible Perennial?13:22 Zone Talk_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic' permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with William & Billy Bond: Father-Son Edition – Turning Invasive Trees into Superfoods Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-06-26 | Billy Bond and William Bond (The Permaculture Consultant) join us for a special Father’s Day Fast Five! In this fun and heartfelt rapid-fire episode, the father-son duo share:The meaning behind William’s name (“Protector”) and how Billy has instilled that value since he was young William’s favorite trees depending on climate — Moringa, Yaupon Holly (caffeine!), and Bodark/Osage Orange Billy’s mind-blowing discovery about making “custom DNA” compost using urine and hair clippings Turning “invasive” or underutilized plants into valuable resources Family lessons, mindset shifts, and personal stories from Perma Pastures FarmShort, honest, and packed with practical wisdom, humor, and inspiration — perfect for anyone building a permaculture life with family.Watch the full-length interview here: youtu.be/9x_76aL59bY_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Father-Son Permaculture Journey: William & Billy Bond Share Life-Changing Lessons Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-06-19 | Stefan Sobkowiak sits down with Billy Bond (Perma Pastures Farm) and his son William Bond (The Permaculture Consultant) for a heartfelt and honest conversation about fatherhood, legacy, and raising the next generation.In this special Father’s Day episode, the father-son duo open up about:What fatherhood really means and why it’s the most important thing they’ll ever doBilly’s journey from a dysfunctional childhood to becoming a fatherWilliam’s experience becoming a dad to his young daughterThe power of presence, making mistakes, and learning on the jobFunny family stories (including the “lobster kid” and the infamous pipe punishment)How permaculture and self-reliant living have shaped their familyAdvice for fathers, sons, and families building a better futureRaw, inspiring, and full of wisdom — this is one of the most personal and meaningful episodes we’ve ever released.Billy Bond – Perma Pastures FarmYouTube Channel: youtube.com/@PermaPasturesFarm21Website / Shop: permapasturesfarm.comInstagram: Search “Perma Pastures Farm”William Bond – The Permaculture ConsultantYouTube Channel: youtube.com/@ThePermacultureConsultantInstagram: @thepermacultureconsultantWatch Part 1 (Billy & Michelle Bond) here: youtu.be/XXoegrRQ3ec0:00 Welcome & Father’s Day Special Introduction3:10 What is the True Essence of Fatherhood?9:45 Billy’s Story: From Dysfunctional Family to Legacy17:20 The Most Important Investment You’ll Ever Make24:30 William Becomes a Father – His Biggest Fears & Realizations32:40 Funny Family Stories: The Lobster Kid39:15 Discipline, Mistakes & The Infamous Pipe Story48:50 The Power of Being Present as a Dad57:30 How Permaculture Shapes Family Life & Values1:06:40 Advice for Fathers, Sons & Raising the Next Generation1:15:20 Reflections on Legacy, Grandchildren & the Future1:23:40 Final Thoughts & Heartfelt Messages_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Greg Judy: Why He Can’t Eat Grocery Store Steak Anymore Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-06-12 | Greg Judy jumps into the Fast Five! In this rapid-fire edition, the legendary regenerative rancher shares his quick, no-fluff answers on:How a flerd completely changed his view on Autumn Olive His top trees for silvopasture in Missouri Why he can’t eat grocery store steak anymore His favourite animal to hunt And how important his wife Jan really is to their successShort, punchy, and packed with practical wisdom and personal stories — perfect for anyone into regenerative grazing, silvopasture, or permaculture systems.Watch the full-length interview with Greg Judy here: youtu.be/dZqxM0oA2_E_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Greg Judy’s Incredible Journey: From Raccoon Hunter to Regenerative Ranching Legend Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-06-05 | Join Stefan Sobkowiak and Zack Zane as they sit down with legendary regenerative rancher Greg Judy from Green Pastures Farm in Missouri. In this inspiring conversation, Greg shares his wild journey — from raccoon hunting stories and childhood dreams on a dairy farm to managing over 2,400 acres with 500+ cattle and 300+ sheep. Discover how regenerative grazing and “grass” completely transformed his life and land. Key topics covered:The power of mob grazing and multi-species grazing (flerds)Integrating livestock into silvopasture and permaculture orchardsProfitable trees for pastures (apples, honey locust, mulberry, persimmon, chestnuts & more)How animals + trees create resilient, productive systemsPractical tools, inventions, and stacking enterprises (cattle, sheep, lumber, mushrooms)Mindset, mentorship, and the courage to change your farming approachThis episode is packed with real-world wisdom for anyone raising animals, growing orchards, or wanting to make their land more profitable and regenerative.Guest Links:Greg Judy Regenerative Rancher (YouTube): youtube.com/channel/UCi8jM5w49UezskDWBGyKq5gGreg Judy Website for Grazing Schools,Books & Tools (Bale Unroller & Fence Jumper): greenpasturesfarm.netEpisode Chapters0:00 Welcome & Introduction to Greg Judy3:10 Greg Judy’s Wild Raccoon Hunting Stories7:40 Growing Up on a Dairy Farm & Early Vision10:00 What is Silvopasture? (Trees + Forage + Animals)13:50 How Grass Became Greg’s Most Valuable Crop15:30 The Big Turning Point: Learning to Manage Grass17:40 The Power of Leasing Land (Control vs Own)19:30 Why Put Your Money Into Livestock, Not Equipment24:00 Multi-Species Grazing & Flerds (Cattle + Sheep)28:45 Integrating Livestock into Orchards & Silvopasture35:10 Best Trees for Pastures (Apples, Honey Locust, Mulberry, Oaks & More)42:20 Timber Stand Improvement (TSI) & Managing Existing Woodlands50:10 Tools & Inventions: Bale Unroller, Fence Jumper & More57:30 Stacking Enterprises: Breeding Stock, Lumber & Mushrooms1:05:15 Mindset, Resilience & Lessons from Hard Times1:15:40 Advice for New & Aspiring Regenerative Farmers1:25:20 Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Marcin Jakubowski: His Top Picks for Farms & Gardens Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-06-02 | Marcin Jakubowski is here for a rapid-fire, no-fluff edition of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast's Fast Five — and he drops his top picks for one machine, one shrub, one building technique, one person, and one area that needs more research.• Universal Tractor – The ultimate MVP with a hundred different implements to handle every task in the garden or small farm• Chestnut – A large shrub/tree that can provide all the carbohydrate needs usually met by wheat• Compressed Earth Blocks (CEB) – An extremely robust, localizable, and bulletproof building method• Gandhi – The most impactful person in his life for spiritual development, self-reliance, and mobilizing people outside the mainstream system• Hydrogen (Solar Hydrogen) – The one aspect he wishes was researched more as the scalable future of clean energy Plus Marcin shares insights on resource limits, nickel-iron batteries, and building a regenerative world.If you want practical, scalable, and revolutionary ideas for tools, plants, building, and energy that can help create resilient small farms and communities, this Fast Five is pure gold.Resources from Marcin:Open Source Ecology: opensourceecology.orgGlobal Village Construction Set: opensourceecology.org/gvcsFactor e Farm & Wiki: wiki.opensourceecology.org_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Marcin Jakubowski: From Nuclear Physicist to Building Open Source Farms & Machinery Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-05-29 | Marcin Jakubowski — nuclear physicist turned farmer and founder of Open Source Ecology — shares his journey creating the Global Village Construction Set: open-source blueprints for 50 machines that let anyone build a self-sustaining village.In this episode, Stefan and Marcin dive deep into:• The inspiring (and surprising) story of leaving academia for hands-on regenerative innovation• How open-source collaboration can revolutionize small-scale farming and permaculture• Practical DIY machines for tractors, soil prep, construction, and more• Building resilient, post-scarcity communities with affordable, replicable technology• First principles thinking and the future of decentralized food productionLearn more about Open Source Ecology: opensourceecology.orgGlobal Village Construction Set: opensourceecology.org/gvcsChapters:00:00 Intro & Welcome to Marcin Jakubowski01:45 Who is Marcin Jakubowski? (Nuclear Physicist to Farmer)03:50 The Pivotal Moment: Why He Left Academia07:30 Growing Up in Communist Poland – Early Influences10:45 Meditation, First Principles & Linux Inspiration13:30 From Theory to Hands-On: Urban Gardening & Early Experiments18:20 The Birth of Open Source Ecology & Global Village Construction Set (GVCS)24:15 The 50 Machines: Building a Self-Sustaining Village29:40 Open Source Hardware Explained – The Four Freedoms34:10 Practical Machines for Permaculture & Small Farms (Tractors, Brick Press, etc.)38:15 Fast Five Questions with Marcin44:20 Future Builder Academy & Finishing the 50 Machines by 202849:30 Collaboration with Permaculture Orchards & Replication Models55:40 Movable Orchards, Modular Systems & Automation Ideas1:02:10 Greening Deserts & Large-Scale Regeneration1:08:50 Economic Potential of Permaculture Orchards1:14:20 Final Advice & What the Permaculture Community Should Adopt1:19:40 If He Had to Start Over Today…1:22:50 Where to Find Marcin & Open Source Ecology1:25:00 Closing Thoughts_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (Use code POP250 at checkout to save $250!)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy Main YouTube Channel: youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiakMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Morag Gamble: Her Must-Have Plants for a Thriving Permaculture Project Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-05-22 | Fast Five with Morag Gamble: Her Must-Have Plants for a Thriving Permaculture ProjectMorag Gamble is back for a lightning-fast, no-fluff edition of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast — and she shares her personal top must-have plants that belong in every thriving permaculture project.In just minutes you’ll discover:• Mulberry Tree – The undisputed MVP: feeds you, shades chickens, makes perfect mulch, and almost never fails• Surinam Spinach – The living-mulch hack that ends weeding forever and turns your orchard floor into a edible carpet• Grevillea – The caramel-nectar flower she licked as a kid (and why every food forest needs this bird-magnet super-plant) Plus Morag reveals:• Why these three plants create a self-sustaining system that works for beginners and pros alike• The “people care” mindset shift that makes any plant list actually succeed long-term If you want low-maintenance, high-yield plants that build soil, attract wildlife, and keep giving year after year, this Fast Five is pure gold. Resources from Morag Gamble: Permaculture Education Institute & free resources: permacultureeducationinstitute.org Morag's PodCast : permacultureeducationinstitute.org/podcastMorag’s books, courses & global projects: moraggamble.com_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Morag Gamble’s SECRETS to Achieving your Ultimate Permaculture Orchard Design! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-05-15 | In this inspiring full-length interview on the Permaculture Orchard Podcast, global permaculture legend Morag Gamble opens up about how growing up immersed in permaculture shaped her into the design genius she is today — and how you can use the same principles to build abundant, resilient food forests.Discover:• The childhood bird-feeder moment that sparked her lifelong love of permaculture• Why mulberry is the ultimate MVP tree (feeds you, shades chickens, makes mulch, and almost never fails)• The Surinam spinach living-mulch hack that ends weeding forever• Grevillea nectar — the caramel-like flower she used to lick as a kid (and why it still matters)• How “people care” is the secret ingredient that makes every design actually work• Unschooling + AI: Morag’s bold vision for the youth permaculture revolution• Raising kids in permaculture and why the next generation is already running the show Morag shares raw, practical wisdom from 40+ years in the field — stories from her backyard beginnings to teaching thousands worldwide — and gives you simple, doable steps to bring the same magic into your own orchard or garden.If you want a food forest that feeds your family, heals the planet, AND nurtures the people in it… this episode is pure gold. Resources from Morag Gamble: Permaculture Education Institute & free resources: permacultureeducationinstitute.org Morag's PodCast : permacultureeducationinstitute.org/podcastMorag’s books, courses & global projects: moraggamble.com0:00 Welcome & Introduction to Morag Gamble2:45 Morag’s Impressive Background & Global Work5:20 Growing Up in a Permaculture-Inspired Family9:15 The Childhood Bird-Feeder Moment That Sparked It All13:40 Why Landscape Architecture Disappointed Her18:30 Transitioning Fully into Permaculture Design24:10 Mulberry – The Ultimate MVP Tree (Feeds People, Animals & Soil)29:45 Surinam Spinach: The Living Mulch Hack That Ends Weeding35:10 Grevillea & Other Favorite Food Forest Plants41:20 People Care – The Secret Ingredient in Every Great Design48:30 Raising Kids in Permaculture & Perma Youth55:10 Unschooling, AI & the Future of Permaculture Education1:02:40 Practical Design Tips for Resilient Orchards & Food Forests1:11:20 Final Thoughts & Hopeful Vision for the Future_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Fast Five with Eric Toensmeier: Must-Have Plants for Every Permaculture Garden Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-05-08 | Eric Toensmeier is back for a rapid-fire, no-fluff edition of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast's Fast Five — and he drops his top picks for one tree, one shrub, and one perennial that belong in every backyard food forest.• Mulberry Tree – The ultimate MVP: edible fruit, bird magnet, zero late-frost drama, and almost pest-free• Thornless Black Raspberry – New shade-loving, thornless native cultivar that’s about to change your berry game• Climbing Spinach – A perennial that tastes just like regular spinach and thrives in the shade Plus Eric shares:• The neighbor who changed his life and introduced him to pawpaw, persimmon, hardy kiwi, and more• The one research gap he wishes scientists would fill yesterday (shade yields for currants, potatoes & beyond) If you want low-maintenance, high-yield, climate-resilient plants that actually work in the real world, this Fast Five is pure gold.Resources from Eric:Free download of Trees with Edible Leaves (English, Spanish, French & more): perennialagricultureinstitute.wordpress.comEric’s website & Perennial Solutions: perennialsolutions.org_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Eric Toensmeier Shares How Your Backyard Could Feed You for Life! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-05-01 | Eric Toensmeier just dropped the ultimate permaculture game-changer: trees that grow endless edible leaves — and your backyard could literally feed you for life.In this powerful interview on the Permaculture Orchard Podcast, perennial crop legend Eric Toensmeier (author of Trees with Edible Leaves, The Carbon Farming Solution, Edible Forest Gardens, and more) reveals how to turn ordinary trees into a nonstop superfood factory.Discover:• Trees that taste like chicken soup (yes, really — Chinese Toon is mind-blowing)• The pollarding hack that gives you tender greens for months without buying spinach again• Mulberry leaves that are more nutritious than most store-bought vegetables• How perennial systems build carbon, boost biodiversity, and create climate-resilient food forests• Easy starter plants for any backyard orchard (mulberry is the MVP)• Why migrant communities already know these secrets — and how we can bring them backEric shares real-world stories from his work with urban farms, refugee gardens, and global agroforestry — plus practical tips you can use this season to grow more food with less work.If you’re tired of annual gardening struggles and want a low-maintenance, abundant, planet-healing system… this episode is for you. Resources from Eric:Free download of Trees with Edible Leaves (English, Spanish, French & more): https://perennialagriculture.instituteEric’s website & Perennial Solutions: perennialsolutions.org0:00 Welcome & Introduction to Eric Toensmeier2:20 Eric’s Impressive Background & Major Books6:45 Starting a Perennial Seed Company & Urban Farming11:30 Working with Immigrant & Refugee Communities (Nuestras Raices)17:10 Why Some Cultures Already Embrace Perennial Foods23:40 Trees with Edible Leaves – The Game Changer28:50 Chinese Toon: The Tree That Tastes Like Chicken Soup34:10 Pollarding Hack for Endless Tender Greens40:25 Mulberry Leaves – More Nutritious Than Store Vegetables47:10 Best Starter Trees & Plants for Backyard Food Forests54:30 How Perennials Build Carbon, Biodiversity & Resilience1:01:15 Real-World Stories from Urban Farms & Agroforestry1:09:40 Climate Solutions, Policy Work & Project Drawdown1:17:20 Final Thoughts & Hope for the Future of Perennial Systems_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Andrew Millison’s Permaculture Journey : From Lost Hippie to 100 Million+ views Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-04-03 | Stefan Sobkowiak sits down with Andrew Millison - Permaculture's largest YouTube creator as he shares his impactful journey from lost hippie to a redirection after his parents introduced him to a permaculture course that a local college was offering. Little did Andrew know this new path would lead him on the adventure of a lifetime as he continues to use his platform(s) for good, implementing permaculture practices to improve the lives of countless people around the world.Donate to https://www.earthrepair.fund/Watch Earth Repair's first YouTube video : youtu.be/24uCCr3KjCI?si=c7CDxZOIbRZJBVHj0:00 Welcome & Introduction to Andrew Millison4:10 Andrew’s Early “Lost Hippie” Days & Dropping Out9:45 Discovering Earthships in New Mexico14:20 Taking His First Permaculture Design Course (1996)20:30 Moving to Oregon State University & Online Education27:15 Creating the First Online Permaculture Course34:50 The Decision to Start Filming – India 201741:20 Learning Videography & the India Pilgrimage Series49:30 The Pani Foundation Story – Massive Water Harvesting Movement57:40 How One Bollywood Star Sparked a Village Revolution1:05:10 Scaling Impact: From Videos to Real-World Land Restoration1:13:30 Reaching Over 100 Million Views & Changing Lives1:21:45 Earth Repair Fund & Current Projects1:29:30 Advice for Content Creators & Permaculture Educators1:36:10 Final Thoughts & Vision for the Future_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Stefan Sobkowiak Talks About Cutting Down The Permaculture Orchard Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-03-20 | Stefan shares his mistakes involved when he planted his nitrogen fixing trees throughout the permaculture orchard and shares how he intend to fix it.Kebtek package I use : kebtek.com/product/467.html(Use code STEFAN10 at checkout to save)Main channel YouTube video : THIS Forced me to Cut my Permaculture Orchard youtu.be/pztmYrcnpzA?si=UK3g27HkXVeuSLvb_______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
the Brutal Years of the Permaculture Orchard Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-03-06 | Lessons in this episode:20 Years of Brutal Farming Lessons You Need to HearHow We Survived the Black Hole of PermacultureFrom Scraps to Success: My Darkest Orchard DaysWhy Brutal Years Made Us Unbreakable FarmersNo Money, No Problem: Building an Orchard on GritMental Toughness: How We Conquered Farming’s Dark TimesDIY Farming Hacks That Saved Us From RuinTurning Pain into Profit: Our Permaculture JourneyEpisode Focus: Reflects on 20-25 "brutal years" of starting a permaculture orchard, highlighting lessons to ease future struggles.Brutal Years Defined: 15 years of monoculture organic orchard plus 5 years replanting permaculture; a financial "black hole" sucking resources.Rejection of Handouts: Pops avoided government aid (e.g., crop insurance) to maintain independence, contrasting with subsidy-reliant European farmers.Resourcefulness: Built pens and traps from scraps (e.g., pallets, buckets), evolving designs (e.g., heavy cedar to lightweight skis) via quick tests.Nursery Struggles: Grew 7,000 trees from rootstock, redoing the nursery thrice, trading time for money with apprentices like Jean-François (split 3,500 trees).Time vs. Money: Lacked funds, so leveraged time, observation (e.g., shrubs vs. painting trees), and annual crops (e.g., veggies, lambs) to bridge gaps.Mental Toughness: Brutal years built resilience; Pops sees setbacks (e.g., losing tens of thousands) as growth, not defeat.Learning Curve: Mistakes (e.g., replanting mature orchard) shaped low-maintenance systems, now in Master Class to save others time.Frugal Habits: Lived below poverty level, prioritizing needs over wants (e.g., $100/day family trips), habits persist despite success.Mindset Shift: Encourages starting small (e.g., two trios), observing, and appreciating modern ease vs. historical homesteading._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Stefan Sobkowiak - How to Make Your Dream Job Your Real Job Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-02-20 | For people who would like to Make Their Dream Job Their Real Job. We document becoming content creators with lessons from our seven year journey.TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 Why POP1:17 Why start a YouTube channel or a podcast. Just start.6:58 Are you a perfectionist? The solution.10:15 Please document your journey.14:45 Why document your journey? Why create content?16:42 Red Ocean - Blue Ocean approach to creating content24:02 The power of a pattern interrupt on a content feed25:31 The importance of a quiet period, an example of the Permaculture Orchard30:06 What is teaching? How is it different from creating content?31:51 The importance of making mistakes. How best to learn from your mistakes.35:43 The different types of audiences and learners.40:21 The steps of creating content and just start. Keep your ideals.48:06 The power of content and trusting the content creator. Stefan's transition from public speaking to video.50:16 The power of just start. Finding your voice.54:26 Do it for your passion, love the grind and gamifying.58:43 This is the best time to start and the tools available now.1:00:34 Your first 50 videos and the YouTube journey and YouTube game.1:04:26 The importance of capturing your ideas.1:07:08 Shorts on YouTube1:08:50 You're one video away... you're one blog post away... you're one podcast episode away... from blowing up with an audience.1:11:53 Please just start your journey as a content creator. Don't wait for conditions to be perfect, MOTIVATIONAL MOMENTS FOR YOU._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Did Teslas Tech Just Make Farming Go FULLY ELECTRIC? Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-02-06 | Stefan's Tesla referral link : tesla.com/referral/stefan562040Zack's referral link : tesla.com/referral/zack824510Hint hint of what's in this episode:No More Gas Hassles: Farming’s Electric Upgrade!From Gas Fumes to Smart Farms: My Tesla Journey!Why Old-School Farmers Love This Electric Beast!Electric Farming Tools That’ll Blow Your Mind!Busting EV Myths: Range, Speed, and More Exposed!Why Farmers Are Ditching Gas for Electric—You Should Too!Episode Theme: Compares gas-powered vs. electric-powered tools and vehicles for farming, homesteading, and backyards, focusing on Tesla experiences.Transition Insight: Pops sees electrification as the future for farming, replacing gas tools (e.g., 35-year electric pump vs. 2-year gas pump) and vehicles.Tesla Bias: Both own Teslas; Pops uses his as a farm vehicle (beaten up), contrasting past gas trucks and vans, never returning to gas.Practical Benefits: Electric offers instant power, no fumes (e.g., chainsaws), lower costs ($3 vs. $150 fill-ups), and software updates improving functionality.Myths Debunked: Address range (ample with planning), speed (instant zip), cost (incentives lower prices), safety (top-rated), and environmental impact (higher efficiency).Farm Utility: Tesla Model Y hauls 3,000 lbs; rare heavy loads rentable, saving on gas/maintenance vs. owning a gas truck year-round.Innovations: Battery tools (e.g., chainsaws, tractors) and smart features (e.g., autopilot, regenerative braking) reduce labor and enhance efficiency.Challenges: Initial range anxiety overcome; minor quirks (e.g., wiper-autopilot glitch) fixed via updates; infrastructure growing but not universal.Farmer Reactions: Anecdote of Billy (skeptic turned fan) suggests old-school farmers may embrace EVs with a test drive, despite resistance.Future Outlook: Predicts fewer gas stations/dealers in 5-10 years as EVs dominate, urging test drives to dispel myths and experience benefits._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Billy Bond’s SECRETS to Achieving Fruit Tree ABUNDANCE in 3 years! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-01-23 | In a hurry: Here's the summary notes for the whole episode: **Introduction and Hosts**: Podcast episode with Stefan Sobkowiak (Permaculture Orchard Podcast) visiting Billy Bond at Perma Pastures Farm in North Carolina. Follow-up to previous episode on Billy's backstory; focuses on his orchard, trees, and permaculture practices. Billy credits Stefan's film and methods as paradigm-shifting for his pragmatic approach.0:01:21- **Influences and Learning**: Billy's orchard knowledge stems from Stefan's work, Bill Mollison, Jeff Lawton, Darren Doherty, Elaine Ingham, and Joel Salatin. He emphasizes never stopping learning, likening podcast listening to university-level education. Pruning shifted from intuitive to systematic thanks to Stefan.0:05:33- **Peaches in the Orchard**: In zone 6B mountains, Billy grows multiple peach cultivars (early, mid, late) yielding 200-400 lbs per 3-year-old tree. Uses topography (1,000 ft elevation) for microclimates, extending seasons like Sepp Holzer. No one else grows peaches locally; he experiments despite skepticism. Flavors vary; quick ripening requires fast processing (freeze-drying, drying, preserves, animal feed, local sales).0:23:21- **Harvest Strategies**: Group plants by harvest time for efficiency (e.g., July-ripening items together). Spread production with early/mid/late varieties to avoid overload. Handle abundance via storage, sharing; avoid waste. Inspired by grocery store aisles and Mollison's per-meal grouping.0:28:49- **Nutrient Density and Eating**: Homegrown fruit is superior in flavor, smell, and nutrients due to tree-ripening and no sprays. Salivation indicates ripeness; kids prefer it over candy. Gorging in season stores phytonutrients in fat for off-seasons, mimicking native diets. Billy eats seasonally, mostly primal now; feels satiated with less due to density.0:36:50- **Soil and Rock Dust**: Emphasizes soil triangle: organic matter, life, minerals. Volcanic rock dust (paramagnetic) boosts growth, flavor, decomposition (e.g., pine needles composted in one season). Experiments show bigger, tastier fruit; enhances compost microbial life (doubled from 800 to 1,600 micrograms/gram). Sourced high-quality dust; tests under microscope per Elaine Ingham.0:50:27- **Experiments and Tools**: Combines rock dust with electroculture, oat flour for fungi; monitors via microscope. Freeze-drying preserves for 30 years. No sprays; uses milk mixes or compost teas to displace pests.1:01:07- **Broader Insights**: Grow beyond local norms; two varieties ensure harvest despite frosts. Curiosity drives progress; shop intelligently for organics. Billy's setup includes animals, berries, nuts; promotes self-reliance.1:10:08- **Closing and Resources**: Gratitude exchanged; Billy hosts Permaculture Pimpcast (YouTube: Perma Pastures Farm), Patreon, Sovereign Health Summit in October with natural healers like Barbara O'Neal. Stefan's Masterclass promoted (code POP250 for $250 off)._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Three Must-Haves to Attract MORE Birds to Your Yard! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2026-01-09 | Just a TASTE of what's HIDDEN in this episode:The Birdman’s Secret to a Living, Singing Garden!Turn Your Yard into a Bird Paradise Overnight!Why Birds Love This One Simple Trick—You Will Too!From Feeder to Frenzy: Hook Birds for Life!Grow These Plants, Watch Birds Flock to You!The App That IDs Birds—and Changes Everything!How Geese and Deer Taught Me to Lure Birds!Bird Collecting: The Hobby That Transforms Your Lawn!Unlock Nature’s Symphony with This Easy Hack!Episode Theme: Explores attracting birds to gardens, homesteads, and farms, highlighting the joy and benefits they bring.Birdman Background: Pops’ lifelong passion for birds stems from wildlife studies (bachelor’s, master’s) and a business designing bird-friendly landscapes.Why Attract Birds: Adds color, movement, and sound to yards; feeders often spark lifelong interest, turning yards into habitats.Key Elements: Food (fruit, seeds, insects), cover (thick shrubs), and water (bird baths, ponds) are essential, tailored to bird needs and surroundings.Observation Skills: Learned from childhood (teaching bird names via flashcards) and honed through predation studies (e.g., 500 tower hours).Practical Tips: Use fruiting shrubs like Saskatoon berry, avoid over-fertilizing (e.g., aphid story), and leverage neighbors’ resources for efficiency.Technology Boost: Merlin app identifies birds by sound/picture; future tools may scan habitats, enhancing bird attraction efforts.Collector Mentality: Bird lists gamify the hobby, encouraging diversity (e.g., chimney swift towers), rooted in Pops’ permaculture experience._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
Mixing Permaculture & YouTube has been... Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-12-26 | If you have ever considered quitting your day job and embark on a content creation journey, or are just curious what a YouTube journey looks like, this video is for you. It's based on our shared experience as a father son team of creating YouTube and educational content for 6 years looks like. It's a similar journey whether you are interested in YouTube, Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook, X, podcasting or any other content creation journey. Lot's of great lessons that can save you a lot of time and money.TIMECODES:- **00:00** - Introduction to starting a YouTube channel focused on permaculture.- **00:38** - Challenges in beginning a YouTube journey.- **01:30** - Importance of producing many videos for growth, aiming for 50-100.- **02:00** - Content creation process: time-consuming, initial struggles.- **02:26** - Starting with basic equipment like an iPhone.- **02:56** - Value of starting despite imperfections.- **03:15** - Overcoming perfectionism through YouTube.- **07:00** - Advantage that no one's watching in the beginning.- **07:45** - Just talk to one person..- **09:10** - Evolution from unstructured to scripted content.- **10:22** - Using YouTube analytics for better performance.- **11:34** - Save $250 on our Master Class.- **11:06** - Video Quality vs. Quantity in the first year.- **13:08** - Monetization journey after eight months.- **14:50** - Learning from analytics to refine content.- **15:08** - Need for balance between perfection and production.- **16:15** - Importance of audio quality in outdoor filming.- **21:20** - Documenting personal projects for growth.- **22:20** - Challenges with bilingual content.- **23:40** - You're going to make mistakes.- **24:55** - Leveraging existing audiences for growth.- **26:00** - Adapting to YouTube's changes, like shorter intros.- **28:11** - Success through themed video series.- **31:18** - Launch of a virtual tour and its reception.- **32:30** - The excitement and impact of viral videos.- **35:00** - Critical role of titles and thumbnails.- **35:50** - Simplistic yet effective strategies from other creators.- **37:20** - Benefits of starting simple in YouTube.- **40:40** - A Pattern Interrupt.- **42:27** - YouTube Perseverence, best time to start.- **46:38** - YouTube burnout.- **51:35** - Managing the emotional impact of viewer comments.- **52 :38** - Long-term YouTube management and content planning.- **55:40** - Your 10,000 hours on task to proficiency.- **58:05** - Encouraging new YouTubers to start documenting regardless of initial quality.- **1:03:10** - Keeping video ideas fresh and relevant.- **1:06:20** - Broad impact goal of promoting permaculture.- **1:08:15** - Collaboration with other creators for mutual growth.- **1:10:16** - Using podcasts to reach new audiences.- **1:11:20** - Channel's journey, ongoing learning, and community interaction.- **1:11:56** - Enjoyment as key to sustaining content creation._______________________________________** NEW ** Stefan's Master Class: https://permaculture.study (START FOR FREE)Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________ === MUST WATCH VIDEOS ===Origin story of MY Permaculture Orchard: youtu.be/zArUk3THIV0How to Plant YOUR Orchard (TRIOS): youtu.be/bDog8MLFJtkMy Favourite Playlist (Indicators Of…): youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2KDEvIH0SXxgyd2nARGHmUir7mq4QC3lMy BIGGEST Mistakes made in the Orchard (Playlist) THIS WILL SAVE YOU crazy TIME and MONEY!!!: youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2KDEvIH0SXwqhJo1q79RCD1tNbxsxd3Y_______________________________________=== SOCIAL MEDIA ===Facebook: facebook.com/lesfermes.farmsInstagram: instagram.com/stefansobkowiakLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/stefan-sobkowiak-91694442X/Twitter: twitter.com/permaculorchardMy FRENCH YouTube Channel: youtube.com/channel/UC-fKD72AtioxXV2C9oZf6ZQ
From Runway to the Garden : Flock Fingers Lakes Journey to Growing Vibrant Plants Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-12-12 | In this episode of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast, host Stefan Sobkowiak interviews Summer Rayne Oakes, a former fashion icon turned environmentalist and land steward. They discuss her 90-acre property in New York's Finger Lakes region, focusing on regenerative landscaping, deer management, aesthetics, and community initiatives.[00:40] Introduction: Summer shares her journey from studying environmental science and entomology at Cornell to using fashion as a platform for sustainability advocacy, eventually co-purchasing land for co-living and permaculture.[02:09] Background and Transition: Growing up in Pennsylvania, Summer worked on mine reclamation. At university, she adopted a systems-based ecological approach. Fashion became her "megaphone" for environmental issues before returning to plants and land restoration.[04:30] Property History and Challenges: The land, formerly a nursery, had restrictive easements and required major transformations. They removed fences metaphorically and literally, embracing humans as part of nature. Techniques like "femel schlag" promote forest regeneration.[09:02] Sponsored Segment: Promo for Stefan's Masterclass bundle on permaculture orchards (use code POP250 for $250 off at permaculture.study).[11:20] Aesthetics and User Experience: Emphasizing visual appeal, the team (including motion graphics designer Saunders and photographer Joey) prioritizes beauty in rural design. They converted ugly areas into vibrant gardens, proving "no one smiles at a lawn" – now blooming beds delight neighbors.[20:05] The Finger Lakes Region: The landscape, the green season, the fall color season. Region's geology, fall colors (peak early Oct)[22:52] Regenerative Practices: Managing 22 acres with deer fencing, they foster edibles, natives, and biodiversity. [25:22] Deer Management: High deer pressure (50/sq mi) necessitates 8ft fencing (4,000+ ft, ~$19/ft). Stories of "super deer" belly-crawling underscore the need for protection, balanced with wildlife love. Humans created ideal deer habitat via edges and agriculture.[45:13] Grass: Evaluating every square foot of grass, discussions on low-mow lawns, bulb underplanting, and grass experiments highlight sustainable alternatives to traditional mowing.[59:38] Reflections and Advice: Lessons on seeding meadows, handling invasives, prioritizing fencing and edible landscapes inspire. If restarting: Mow meadows early, fence sooner.[1:08:26] Future Plans: Opening for tours, creative residencies, and fellowships. Flock Finger Lakes channel educates; website (flockfingerlakes.com) for sign-ups. Indoor plants channel: Plant One on Me.[1:10:36] Tour Tease: Preview of the property's orchards, ponds, and innovations.Join us for insights on blending aesthetics, ecology, and community in permaculture. Subscribe for more! #Permaculture #FingerLakes #RegenerativeLiving #DeerManagement #sustainablelandscaping _______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com#Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteadingMain Channel : youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiak Subscribe for more permaculture tips, homesteading advice, and sustainable farming stories! Hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast.
The importance of an IDEA & how it can make ALL the difference. Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-11-28 | Gems in this episode:One Idea Can Change Your Life – Here’s HowThe Orchard Zipline Idea I’ve Held for 5 YearsIdeas Are Seeds: Plant Them and Watch Them GrowWhy I Live 20 Years Ahead – And You Can TooFrom Shot Down to Inspired: Unlock Your IdeasThe Greenhouse Barn Dream I’ve Chased for DecadesHow to Turn Daydreams into Game-ChangersPermaculture Secrets: Sharing Ideas That WinThink Like a Kid Again – The Power of IdeasTransformative Power of Ideas: The episode explores how a single implemented idea can change one’s life, using the permaculture orchard as a backdrop, with Pops emphasizing his lifelong habit of envisioning ideas 20 years ahead.Nurturing Creativity: Pops fostered a free-rein environment for idea exploration, contrasting with a stifling education system, exemplified by a treetop trail concept for orchard harvesting and tourism, conceived five years ago and still unexecuted.Ideas as Seeds: Ideas are likened to seeds with dormant and growth phases (private root-building and public visibility), requiring respect, capture (e.g., via phone notes), and timing for fruition, inspired by nature’s seed bank resilience.Overcoming Resistance: Emotional scars from being “shot down” can block idea flow; forgiveness is suggested to heal and reopen creativity, supported by Pops’ extensive idea journals and a personal shift from dismissing to documenting inspirations.Passion-Driven Execution: Pops’ unbuilt greenhouse barn-house idea (30+ years) showcases how passion sustains long-term vision, balancing practicality (e.g., self-funding) with innovation, encouraging listeners to pursue ideas that excite them._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
Elon Musk just started a Farming Revolution : Robots, Drones, and Healthy Crops? Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-11-14 | A look at some gems in this episode:The Future of Food: Scan Your Fruit for SecretsWhy Your Food Quality Sucks – And How Tech Can Fix ItNo More Subsidies: How Smart Farming Could Save Us AllFarmers vs. Robots: Who Wins the Future of AgricultureThe End of Bad Food? Tech Takes Over FarmingFuture of Farming Innovations: The discussion explores emerging trends in agriculture, including a device/app that scans food (e.g., fruits, vegetables, meats) to assess nutrient quality and healthiness based on light spectrums, empowering consumers with better food choices.Automation and Technology: Farming is shifting toward automation with tools like autonomous tractors, drones, and robots for tasks such as planting, spraying, and pruning, reducing manual labor and increasing efficiency.Health and Incentives: Current agricultural incentives often prioritize profit over health, leading to pesticide overuse and nutrient runoff. A proposed shift aligns incentives with cleaner waterways, healthier soils, and crops by optimizing fertilizer application (e.g., multiple smaller doses).Consumer and Producer Impact: Technology like quality scanning could allow consumers to choose healthier options, while producers could charge more for superior products, potentially reducing reliance on subsidies and wasteful practices.Sustainability and Problem-Solving: Automation could free up farmers’ time to address root causes of issues (e.g., pests) rather than applying temporary fixes, fostering sustainable, cost-effective, and health-focused farming._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
BOOST Your Harvest with These Backyard Critters - Raising Animals in The Permaculture Orchard. Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-10-31 | Oh WOW some of you will FREAK OUT over this episode, some teasers:Why My Orchard’s Secret Weapon Isn’t Fruit—It’s Animals!The Animal Hack That Transformed My Permaculture Game!Sheep, Ducks, and Turkeys: Nature’s Orchard Crew Revealed!Grow Healthier Kids and Tastier Meat—Here’s How!Stop Losing Fruit to Birds—Plant This Instead!From 3 Sheep to 100: My Wild Orchard Journey!The Fence Trick That Outsmarts Every Predator!Eggs That Pack 7x the Punch—Unlock the Secret!Turkeys Hunt Like Dinosaurs—Proof in My Orchard!Episode Focus: Explores integrating animals into permaculture orchards, gardens, yards, and homesteads, emphasizing their role beyond just fruit production.Animals vs. Plants: Pops, a biologist, prioritizes animals (wildlife and domesticated) over plants, designing the orchard for diversity and wildlife attraction alongside fruit yield.Bird Strategy: To manage birds (e.g., robins, waxwings) eating fruit, plant in excess (e.g., 50+ shrubs) so there’s enough for both birds and harvest, avoiding nets.Childhood Exposure: Growing up with dogs, chickens, and later diverse farm animals (sheep, geese, ducks) shaped a love for animals and taught immune resilience.Domesticated Animals: Sheep trimmed grass and reduced disease via air circulation; chickens, ducks, and turkeys cycled nutrients and controlled pests, evolving with orchard needs.Learning Curve: Started with borrowed sheep (e.g., Larry, Moe, Curly), scaled to 100, refined grazing (rotational, electric fencing), and adapted to permaculture’s complexity.Predator Management: Double electric fencing (“Predator Pinball”) prevented losses by training resident predators to avoid livestock, balancing ecology.Health Benefits: Outdoor-raised animals (e.g., chickens, ducks) offer superior taste and nutrition (e.g., 3-7x nutrient-rich eggs); early parasite exposure boosts immunity.Innovations: Tools like geared reels, step-in posts, and battery-operated latches simplify animal management; historical practices (e.g., milkmaids’ immunity) inform modern benefits.Recommendations: Start with laying hens for orchards, then ducks; scale to geese or sheep with space and rotation, integrating animals holistically._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
Plastic Mulch in Permaculture: Genius or Blasphemy? Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-10-17 | Highlights:Plastic in Permaculture: Hero or Villain?Why I Put Plastic in My Orchard – And You Might TooSaving My Orchard with Plastic: The Controversial ChoiceMicroplastics Scare: Is My Orchard Safe?Plastic vs. Nature: The Permaculture Debate Heats UpControversial Use of Plastic: The discussion tackles the polarizing topic of using plastic in a permaculture orchard, originally implemented as an emergency measure to save the orchard from being overtaken by grass after mulch failed due to highly active soil life.Origin and Rationale: Initially opposed to plastic after observing its short-term use in strawberry farming, Pops adopted durable silage plastic (6 mil) from dairy farms for free, driven by the need for low-maintenance solutions at scale, unlike a forest’s natural succession.Installation Challenges and Tweaks: The first plastic installation in 2008 was labor-intensive, taking a week for four people to cover one acre, but subsequent efforts improved efficiency (e.g., two people covering 2.5 acres in a week) by refining techniques and equipment.Benefits Over 15 Years: Plastic reduced maintenance to half a day weekly, simplified plant propagation (e.g., 400 shrubs from cuttings in a morning), encouraged natural germination (e.g., chives), enriched CO2 at plant roots, and supported wildlife like snakes and ants, enhancing pest control.Drawbacks and Microplastics Concern: Negatives include weed growth in holes if unmanaged and scale-specific necessity; while durable plastic minimizes microplastic release compared to thin films, Pops recommends wood chips for smaller gardens and remains cautious about environmental impacts.Propagation of shrubs VIDEO mentioned around 37 minutes mark: youtu.be/9kKhQJmgknU_______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
My biggest MISTAKES in The Permaculture Orchard Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-10-03 | Highlights and lessons:Why Mistakes Are Your Best Teacher – Orchard LessonsThe Biggest Mistake I Made Buying My FarmFailing Forward: How We Revolutionized Our OrchardAI Is Coming for Education – Are Teachers Doomed?From Nursery Disasters to Permaculture WinsEmbrace Your Mistakes: The Secret to SuccessThe Future of Learning: Goodbye, Old SchoolMistakes That Cost Me Years – And Made Me BetterReframing Mistakes: Pops and the speaker challenge society’s negative view of mistakes, advocating for seeing them as feedback or lessons essential for growth, contrasting with an outdated education system that discourages failure.Learning from Failure: Personal anecdotes, like the speaker’s puzzle-piece analogy and Pops’ iterative orchard experiments (e.g., apple maggot traps), highlight how analyzing and adapting to mistakes drives progress and innovation.Education Revolution: They predict AI will transform teaching by tailoring lessons to individual learning styles and interests, reducing the need for traditional mass education and favoring standout educators.Biggest Orchard Mistake: Pops identifies buying a large orchard as his costliest mistake due to years spent maintaining it, suggesting a smaller leased plot would have been wiser, though it fueled valuable lessons now shared via teaching.Resilience and Purpose: Facing repeated nursery failures (e.g., vole and rabbit damage), Pops persisted with a partner’s support, emphasizing teamwork for long endeavors and a forward-thinking mindset to turn setbacks into motivation._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
Father Son Farming - Can it Work? Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-09-19 | Father Son or Relationship Farming. Lessons that apply to any relationship, family, work, business.______________________________________TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Introduction to Family Dynamics in FarmingDiscussion on different family relationships in farming (father-son, mother-daughter, etc.)00:42 - Historical Family InfluencePersonal history of the speaker's father and grandfather; influence of family background on career choices.03:36 - Learning Through ObservationStories of learning by watching and doing; emphasis on the concept of "osmosis" in skill acquisition.05:10 - Creative Problem Solving and BuildingAnecdotes about building projects, like treehouses and sailboats, showcasing early creativity and resourcefulness.07:13 - Childhood Freedom on the FarmReflections on the freedom and exploration opportunities provided by the farm environment.08:19 - Farm Life vs. City LifeComparing experiences of farm life with city life, including how it influenced peer perceptions and personal growth.09:50 - Challenges of Farm TransitionInsights into the difficulties of transitioning family businesses, especially farms, to the next generation.10:35 - Economic Realities of FarmingDiscussion on the financial aspects of farming, including the need for off-farm income and the attachment to land.12:53 - Sponsor Segment: Master ClassA few words on our very own Permaculture Orchard Master Class.Designed to help you at all stages of Your project14:03 - Land Stewardship and Business StrategyPhilosophies on land management and the strategic approach to building a farm business sustainably.15:13 - Encouraging Children's InterestHow to involve children in farm business based on their interests, using examples from other successful farms.15:50 - Diverse Farm VenturesExploring different business ventures on a farm that can align with children's personal interests.17:03 - Health and Immunity from Farm LifeBenefits of farm life on health, particularly through exposure to nature and animals.18:41 - Work Ethic and Punishment on the FarmReflections on how farm chores were perceived as punishment, and thoughts on better approaches.22:48 - Farm Management and management styles26:50 - Challenges of earning to take over a farm29:43 - Family dynamics in farming30:27 - Farming and YouTube33:13 - Parenting lessons38:46 - Movie and video life lessons in learning44:26 - Relationship and work dynamics49:33 - Opportunities on the farm56:05 - Exposure of children early on to job and business realities1:00:24 - Farm entertainment opportunities1:03:30 - Relationships and unforgiveness1:05:30 - Conclusion and AppreciationWrapping up the discussion on family dynamics in business, with a note of gratitude for the learning journey._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
Stefan Sobkowiak learns new PROpagation tricks from Edible Acres (Guest Sean Dembrosky) Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-09-05 | Sean Dembrosky is our guest. We dive into propagation, techniques, raising kids around plants, favorite plants, permaculture and his journey.You can best find his work on his YouTube channel: youtube.com/user/edibleacresor on Facebook: facebook.com/edibleacresny. His website: edibleacres.orgHere's the Podcast Summary:- **Episode Introduction**: Host Stefan Sobkowiak interviews Sean Dumbrosski at Edible Acres, a food forest and nursery in central New York (Zone 5B, trending warmer). Focuses on permaculture tips for small spaces, fruit trees, saving money, with tours and techniques showcased.0:01:36- **Sean's Childhood Influence**: Grew up in suburban New Jersey on a quarter-acre lot with mowed lawns. Mom's intuitive wild gardens inspired him—picking mint through raspberries, talking to plants—fostering a relational view of nature rather than control.0:03:10- **Early Career Shift**: In early 20s, aimed for computer graphics-art but met an 80-year-old mentor who pushed farming. Did guerrilla gardening in Trenton, NJ (potatoes in parks, mint by waterways). Bought cheap, degraded land with a meth-lab mobile home, cleaned it, and started repairing the landscape.0:05:03- **Discovery of Permaculture**: Began planting intuitively; learned food forests and permaculture concepts a few years in, refining designs (e.g., considering wind, nitrogen fixers, shade). Attended 2007 workshop with Dave Jacke (author of "Edible Forest Gardens") for intensive intro.0:05:36- **Nature-Inspired Approach**: Drew from hedgerows—shady, productive edges with berries, mushrooms, wildlife. Mimics mid-succession: canopied with gaps, cooler/shaded in summer, calmer in wind. Periodically cuts dense areas to mimic herbivores, laying material as mulch.0:13:00- **Observation and Curiosity**: Sharp observation from 20+ years of immersion; childlike wonder drives questions (e.g., plant interactions, rain effects). No rote memorization; learns through trial, social analogy—interacting with plants like people builds knowledge naturally.0:18:15- **Experimentation Mindset**: Views failures as learning; retries ideas yearly as conditions change. Balances reliable baselines (e.g., potatoes, garlic, hazelnuts) with tweaks. Propagation like cooking—dial in recipes but experiment for improvement (e.g., 60% to 80% success adds plants).0:24:45- **Moon Phases and Biodynamics**: Initially skeptical, now uses for cuttings/seeding. E.g., hardwood cuttings in waxing gibbous moon yield 80-90% vs. 5%. Seeding 3-4 days before full moon catches rising "tide" for better germination/rooting, observed in sandy soils.0:30:35- **Propagation Techniques**: Easy starters: Willow, elderberry, currants via dormant hardwood cuttings (November-April). Roots in water/soil; willow aids others. Save seeds from abundant fruits (peaches, cherries); plant densely, mulch. Cast wide net—nature's low success rates (e.g., less than 1% for maples) mean 10-50% is great.0:35:31- **Challenges and Failures**: Examples: 0% germination on river locust/senna despite past success—possibly heat/Fabaceae family issue. Cornelian cherry seeds took 2-3 years to sprout. Seabuckthorn tricky young but indestructible mature.0:45:12- **Favorite Plants**: No single favorite; black currant (adaptable, deer-resistant, nutritious, easy propagation); seaberry (daughter's fave, medicinal juice/sorbet, heavy yields). Emphasizes diversity—any plant can be "favorite" in context.0:48:50- **Family and Health Benefits**: Plants as pharmacy/pleasure (e.g., currants/seaberry for kids). Surrounds with bounty to counter modern scarcity/trauma; teaches child plant names, edibility (e.g., bird fruit for honeysuckle).0:53:29- **Business and Succession**: Nursery sells perennials; experiments build shareable knowledge for future (less physical work in 70s/80s). Designs for resilience, income from sales/food.0:59:51- **If Starting Over**: More thoughtful tree placement (e.g., pecans, hickories) and water flow; but comfortable adapting—cut if needed.1:01:38- **Resources**: YouTube "Edible Acres" (1,000+ videos, vlog-style journal of trials). Website edibleacres.org for plants/garlic seed. In Finger Lakes region; tests warming-climate plants (jujubes, pomegranates)._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com#Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteading
The French PRUNING Secret to More Fruit with Less Work! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-08-22 | Here's a glimpse of the GEMS in this episode:MODERN Fruit Tree pruning principles (3 steps to success)Pruning Secrets Big Orchards Don’t Want You to Know!How One Branch Beat Ten: The Pruning Hack You Need!Stop Cutting Your Trees Wrong—Here’s the Right Way!Why Nature’s Pruning Beats Your Shears Every Time!Pruning Myths Busted: Save Time and Boost Your Harvest!Three Steps to Prune Like a Pro—Never Guess Again!From Chaos to Fruit: My 30-Year Pruning Lesson!Train, Don’t Chop: The Lazy Way to a Thriving Orchard!Unlock Your Trees’ Potential with This One Weird Trick!Episode Focus: Discusses pruning’s importance for gardens, orchards, and homesteads, questioning its necessity and benefits.Natural vs. Intentional Pruning: Trees prune naturally in forests via competition, but intentional pruning boosts fruit yield, quality, and disease resistance.Dr. Lespinasse’s Influence: Introduced novel pruning concepts in 2009, emphasizing minimal intervention and training over heavy cutting, based on observing natural tree growth.Branch Angle Insight: Branches above horizontal grow more branches; below horizontal focus on fruit, with pears as an exception (horizontal preferred).Practical Example: One well-angled branch yielded more fruit than 10 others, proving angle’s impact on productivity.Three-Step Pruning: Clear a chimney around the trunk, limit branches to 12-15, polish by breaking small undergrowth, reducing pruning frequency to every five years.Observation Over Tradition: Outdated pruning advice (e.g., tipping) is debunked; observation and understanding tree behavior are key.Learning Journey: From initial heavy pruning to a refined, observation-based approach, shared via experience and the Master Class._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com
Stop Treating Symptoms: What Pests Really Teach Us! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-08-08 | Here's a hint of the goldmine of information in this episode:The Secret Dandelions Are Trying to Tell You About Your Soil!Why Caterpillars Humbled Me—and Saved My Orchard!Unlock Nature’s Warning Signs: Are You Ignoring These Indicators?From Yellow Chaos to Healthy Soil: Our Farm’s Dandelion Fix!The Game-Changing Tool That Reads Your Food’s Hidden Health!How Ancient Farmers Used Trees to Find Goldmine Soil!Your Lawn’s Seed Bank Holds Centuries of Secrets—Find Out Why!Nature’s Debuggers: How Geese and Ants Fixed My Farm!The episode focuses on indicators in gardening, likened to car warning lights, signaling issues like soil health, pests, or diseases.Dandelions as Indicators: Dandelions indicate calcium deficiency and soil compaction, often due to synthetic fertilizers leaching calcium; their deep roots help repair soil by retrieving minerals.Fixing Soil Issues: At the farm, dandelions decreased after adding basalt rock dust (calcium-rich), stopping synthetic fertilizers, and reducing mowing, allowing natural nutrient cycling with sheep help.Mindset Shift: Emphasizes viewing pests, plants, and diseases as indicators teaching lessons, not just problems to treat, inspired by Sir Albert Howard’s work ("The Soil and Health").Lamb's Quarter Example: Indicates fertile, nutrient-balanced soil, ideal for gardening, contrasting with dandelions.Technology’s Role: Modern tools like phone apps can identify plants and, soon, diagnose deficiencies or diseases via light spectrum analysis, empowering growers.Caterpillar Story: Tent caterpillars overwhelmed the monoculture apple orchard, revealing its vulnerability; led to a shift to diverse permaculture after initial resistance.Aphids as Indicators: Indicate excess nitrogen (e.g., from over-fertilization or urine in a New Zealand example), slowing rapid plant growth to aid survival.Historical Context: Settlers used black walnut as an indicator of deep, fertile soil for crops, showing historical reliance on observation.Observation’s Value: Stresses establishing a baseline to notice changes (e.g., soil improvement or pest presence), a skill honed by curiosity and biologist training.Seed Banks: Soil holds dormant seeds for years, activated by conditions or animals like ants, explaining plant resurgence.Future Tools: Emerging spectral readers could assess produce nutrient levels, shifting consumer and farmer priorities toward quality over Band-Aid fixes.Systemic Change: Critiques pesticide industry’s Band-Aid approach; advocates addressing root causes (nutrition) for plant health, reducing reliance on symptom treatment._______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________Main Channel : youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiak Subscribe for more permaculture tips, homesteading advice, and sustainable farming stories! Hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast. #Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteading
How my Intern started his own Permaculture Orchard Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-07-25 | Our guest this episode is James Sapp from Montana. James is our intern from 2016 who has started his tree nursery, used the trees to plant his permaculture orchard and has begun to harvest the fruit. He describes the journey, the challenges and gives lessons learned along the way. A must watch episode if you are pondering a permaculture orchard in your future.You can check out Jame's orchard or reach him at: sappsorchard.com_______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________Main Channel : youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiak Subscribe for more permaculture tips, homesteading advice, and sustainable farming stories! Hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast. #Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteading
Stefan Sobkowiak on STARTING The Permaculture Orchard! Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-07-11 | THE STORY of the Permaculture Orchard. Ever wonder what it would be like to start YOUR own Permaculture Orchard? With this first episode of our NEW Podcast (POP - The Permaculture Orchard) we go for a deep dive on such a journey with its twists and turns. We go deep into the backstories that can save you a LOT of Time and Money.TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 Stefan's biologist and landscape architect training before farming15:19 Having a vision18:11 The most under appreciated part of permaculture and the Masterclass20:40 Why go into farming23:30 Discovering Permaculture25:28 Why find and buy the farm and that journey33:21 Leasing a great alternative to buying a farm for a Permaculture Orchard36:33 Having a checklist to buy a farm40:56 Going through organic transition and operating a 4,000 tree monoculture organic apple orchard for the first 15 years of farming46:06 Hitting a historic freeze and losing 25% of the trees48:06 Funding, money and debt52:00 Being organic and why Stefan stopped being organic57:05 Persevering57:44 Why we decided to tear out most of the organic apple orchard1:03:20 My mentors and how easy it is today1:04:50 Early proposals of the Permaculture Orchard1:07:20 Why restart with a Permaculture Orchard1:15:39 Why the quiet years of the Permaculture Orchard1:16:19 Why start with two trios and just start your Permaculture Orchard1:18:10 Mollison's three phases of abundance applied1:19:50 The maintenance goes way down in time1:20:24 The Permaculture Orchard in the future_______________________________________** NEW ** Use code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/Want to VISIT the Permaculture Orchard? Start your VIRTUAL TOUR of the Permaculture Orchard for FREE at: https://miracle.farm/vt1/Want to LEARN how to setup your own Permaculture Orchard or Planting? Watch the FILM 'The Permaculture Orchard: Beyond Organic’ permacultureorchard.com_______________________________________Main Channel : youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiak Subscribe for more permaculture tips, homesteading advice, and sustainable farming stories! Hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast. #Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteading
Stefan Sobkowiak WOWED by Perma Pastures Farm’s journey (Guest : Billy Bond) Permaculture Orchard Podcast 2025-06-27 | Join us for the premiere episode of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast, featuring Billy and Michelle Bond from Permapastures Farm in North Carolina! Discover their inspiring journey from a challenging past to building a thriving permaculture homestead. Learn how they transformed abused land into a productive orchard using sustainable farming techniques, permaculture principles, and innovative methods like the NAP and trios systems. From raising chickens and pigs to mastering tree pruning, this episode is packed with practical tips for homesteaders, farmers, and permaculture enthusiasts. Hear their heartfelt story of resilience, from overcoming betrayal and homelessness to finding paradise in the mountains. Key Topics: Permaculture farming and orchard managementSustainable agriculture and regenerative farmingHomesteading tips for beginnersTree pruning and training techniquesOvercoming hardships in farmingBuilding a food forest and managing livestockLessons from permaculture pioneers like Stefan Sobkowiak and Jeff Lawton Why Watch? Whether you're new to permaculture or a seasoned homesteader, Billy and Michelle’s story offers actionable insights and inspiration. Learn how to start small, master one skill at a time, and create an abundant, sustainable lifestyle. Don’t miss their unique perspective on permaculture, animal management, and the power of education in transforming your land and life!Links & Resources:Perma Pastures Farm: permapasturesfarm.comPermaculture Pimpcast Podcast: youtube.com/@PermacultureOrchardPodcastYouTube Channel: youtube.com/@PermapasturesFarmInstagram: instagram.com/permapasturesfarmUse code : POP250 at checkout to save 250$ off of Stefan’s Permaculture Orchard Master Class available at https://permaculture.study/courses/masterclass-bundle/_______________________________________Main Channel : youtube.com/@StefanSobkowiak Subscribe for more permaculture tips, homesteading advice, and sustainable farming stories! Hit the bell icon to stay updated on new episodes of the Permaculture Orchard Podcast. #Permaculture #Homesteading #SustainableFarming #PermacultureOrchard #OrganicFarming #FoodForest #RegenerativeAgriculture #HomesteadLife #TreePruning #PermacultureDesign #FarmingTips #NorthCarolinaHomesteading
