Welcome to The Market Gardener Podcast!
Join hosts JM Fortier and Chris Moran as they engage with influential members of the global small-scale farming and organic regenerative agriculture community.
Our podcast is your gateway to insightful conversations about farming, food, small businesses, and thought leadership in the world of sustainable agriculture.
We're here to shine a positive light on the practices and principles that drive small-scale farming, agroecology, and community building. Tune in for high-level discussions that inspire and empower a new era of positive farming.
Last refreshed: ⓘ
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier celebrates his 48th birthday by reflecting on his 24-year journey as a market gardener. He revisits the foundational influence of Eliot Coleman’s The New Organic Grower , emphasizing how the "agricultural craftsmanship" of small-scale farming offers a meaningful alternative to industrial food production. The core of the episode outlines three guiding "North Stars" for the movement: reclaiming the integrity of the organic label, strengthening local food s...
In this episode, Jean-Martin and Chris sit down with chef, restaurateur, and TV personality Chuck Hughes to explore his journey from the intense, rebellious kitchen culture of his early career to a more grounded life focused on family, purpose, and simplicity. He reflects on the evolution of food culture, emphasizing a return to local ingredients, authenticity, and respect for farmers. Chuck also opens up about the realities of restaurant life, leadership, and overcoming alcohol addiction, offer...
In this episode, Jean-Martin and Chris sit down with Linley Dixon, co-director of the Real Organic Project and a farmer/soil scientist, for a deep conversation about the future of organic agriculture. Linley shares how corporate interests, hydroponic systems, and regulatory loopholes are reshaping the meaning of “organic,” and why many farmers are working to protect the integrity of the label. The discussion explores the tensions between small farms and industrial-scale organic production, the e...
In this episode, we sit down with Tara Couture , author of Radiance of the Ordinary , to explore how her farming journey has reshaped her understanding of life, death, and what it means to live with reverence. From raising and harvesting animals with deep care to questioning industrial food systems, Tara speaks about the sacred responsibility of participating directly in the cycles that feed us. Rather than speaking of “healing,” she embraces the coexistence of joy and sorrow, and the quiet hope...
In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the emotional and ethical dimensions of small-scale farming, especially in the quieter months after a demanding season. He shares why the growing season often requires farmers to simply push through challenges, and why the off-season is the right time to revisit what was hard, both practically and emotionally. Drawing from personal experience, he explores burnout, resilience, and the importance of rest, reflection, and continuous improvement....
In this episode, we sit down with Francisco Vio of ‘Huerto Cuatro Estaciones’ farm in Chile, to explore the wild world of living and farming in remote Patagonia. From early mentors in Ecuador to building an organic farm at the edge of the world, Francisco shares how beauty, land stewardship, and community have shaped his choices. The conversation weaves together farming, conservation, and the influence of figures like Doug Tompkins who helped create some of the world’s largest protected wilderne...
In this episode, we sit down with Woody DeLauder , founder of Rootbound Farms , a small but highly productive suburban farm based in Southern Maryland. Woody shares how he transformed his suburban lawn into a thriving, human-powered market garden that generates over $100K annually, with the help of his secret best-seller: handmade soap , all while navigating zoning restrictions, skeptical neighbors, and the realities of farming in a residential neighborhood. We explore Woody’s journey from being...
In this episode, we sit down with Yuzuru Kajiya , a famous farmer from Japan who supplies top-tier, three-star Michelin restaurants across Japan and Asia. Yuzuru shares his journey from touring elite French restaurants in his youth to starting his own farm focused on growing unique, exotic, and high-quality produce, a contrast to traditional Japanese farming. We explore Japanese culture and how values like craftsmanship and perfection translate into his farm and the restaurants he works with, an...
In this episode, we sit down with Chris Adams , New Jersey grower and founder of Eastbound Acres , to explore what it really means to be a small-scale farmer in the most densely populated state in the United States. We dive deep into the challenges of farming in a landscape dominated by suburban sprawl , fast-food chains , and skyrocketing land prices , and we explore Chris’s mission to rebuild local food awareness in a place where agriculture has all but disappeared from daily life. Chris break...
In this episode, we sit down with Julia Shanks, consultant, teacher, and author of The Farmer’s Office , to talk about the crucial role of business acumen in small-scale farming. We dive deep into financial management practices, routine bookkeeping, using QuickBooks, and how to properly deal with debt as a small farm business owner. Julia stresses that farmers are entrepreneurs who must understand their numbers, especially profit, not just revenue, to create sustainable, fulfilling farms. You’ll...
In this heartfelt solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the idea that small-scale farming is the true counterculture of today; a colorful, creative, and deeply rooted way of life that stands in contrast to mainstream consumerism and the obsession with wealth. He explores three key pillars: culture, diversity, and resiliency, highlighting how small farms foster biodiversity, preserve tradition, and offer an authentic alternative to homogenized food systems. Jean-Martin shares his personal...
Farmer and educator Richard Perkins explores the deeper layers of farming, culture, and meaning, from his journey establishing Ridgedale Permaculture in Sweden to opening a historic restaurant, Sillegarden, to reconnect people with local food and place. He reflects on the farmer's role as a community builder, the impact of diet, the co-opting of “regenerative agriculture” by big corporations, and the power of efficient, community-driven sales models like REKO Rings. The episode highlights the joy and challenges of farm life and the pursuit of meaningful work.
Jaymie Thurler of Rutabaga Ranch, a "punk rock" market gardener and new mother, discusses her unique approach to farming, from transforming a "left for dead" property into a successful enterprise to integrating family life. She details the innovative self-serve farm stand, an impressive waste-wood heating system for early tomato production, and the deep community connections that define her operation. The episode highlights the balance of profitability, passion, and personal well-being in building a sustainable farm legacy.
In this episode, we speak with legendary organic farmer Eliot Coleman . Recorded live at the Canopy Retreat with an audience of growers, Eliot reflects on how processes—not products—hold the key to truly regenerative agriculture. He shares how his farm no longer uses external inputs and why growing your own organic matter through green manures is the path toward clean, self-sustaining fertility. Eliot recounts his early days learning from European farmers and agrarian elders, explains the scienc...
In this episode, we sit down with Angie Warner , farm manager at the Old Mill and an eighth-generation farmer. Angie shares her journey from working as a pastry chef in Montreal restaurants to growing specialty crops at the Old Mill, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and the lessons found in mistakes. She reflects on the unique challenges of farming for a restaurant’s tasting menu, explains how radicchio is “forced” to enhance its flavor, and opens up about what it means to be the eight...
In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the question: How do we scale small-scale farming? Fresh from the Canopy leadership retreat, he shares insights on building resilient, human-scale farms rooted in ecology and community. Highlighting the wisdom of guest speakers like Eliot Coleman and others, Jean-Martin critiques the industrial co-opting of terms like “organic” and “regenerative,” emphasizing instead the need to multiply small, autonomous farms that feed local communities. He...
In this episode, we welcome David McMillan back to the show, co-founder of Montreal’s famed Joe Beef restaurant, and now winemaker in the countryside of Quebec. In this wide ranging conversation, we discuss the growing industry of locally made wines, farmland access, indigenous growing practices, David’s evolving diet, cooking advice, and what it means to support “true” local agriculture and business. David advocates for small, heartfelt, chef-owned restaurants, criticizing luxury excess and cor...
In this episode we sit down with Sara Dent, co-founder of Young Agrarians , a Canada-wide network supporting the next generation of ecological farmers. Sara shares the origin story of the movement, her early passion for farming, and the role photography and storytelling played in shaping the Young Agrarians brand. Together, they unpack the urgent need for farm renewal in Canada, address the systemic barriers to land access and funding, and explore creative solutions like land trusts, incubator f...
In this episode, we speak with Dave Chapman, co-founder of the Real Organic Project , about the political and ecological crossroads facing the organic food movement. Dave reflects on the industrial takeover of the USDA organic label and why he believes decentralization—not scaling—is key to meaningful change. The conversation explores the deep ties between soil health, human health, and corporate power, questioning whether collapse is necessary for real transformation. Dave also shares insights ...
In this episode we speak with Kish Johnson from Advancing Eco Agriculture about how data-driven tools like SAP analysis and foliar sprays are transforming regenerative farming. Kish shares how farms are eliminating pests and diseases through optimized plant nutrition and improved photosynthesis. The conversation dives into the connection between soil biology, profitability, and nutrient density. Kish also addresses skepticism around ag “products” and offers a humble, science-based approach to fa...
In this episode, we sit down with Chloé Roy, seasoned flower farmer, teacher at the Market Gardener Institute, and author of a new book on flower farming. She shares her journey from vegetable farming to building Floramama, a thriving flower farm, and the lessons learned along the way. Chloé discusses the business side of flower farming and sheds light on the hidden environmental and ethical costs of conventional flowers and why local flower farms are part of a growing movement. Chloé also refle...
In this episode, we sit down with Doug and Kayleigh from Breadseed Farm , who share their inspiring journey of leaving salaried farm management positions to start their own one-acre, no-till, human-powered farm in Vermont. They open up about the challenges and rewards of making the leap to farm ownership , including the fear of financial instability and the excitement of building something from the ground up. We discuss the realities of making a living as small-scale farmers , how they grew thei...
This week we chat with Dan Brisebois from Tourne-Sol Farm about the importance of seed saving for market gardeners. Dan shares his journey from agricultural engineering to co-founding a thriving worker co-op farm that balances vegetable production with a successful seed business. We explore the practicalities of growing your own seeds, debunk myths about cross-pollination, and discuss how seed saving can boost resilience and profitability. Dan also highlights the benefits of cooperative farming ...
In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier takes a deep dive into the question: Is it still realistic to start a small organic farm today? Addressing both aspiring and seasoned farmers, he explores the financial viability of small-scale farming, the challenges of land access, and the shifting landscape of local food systems. JM emphasizes that, despite obstacles, small farms remain economically viable and play a crucial role in strengthening local economies and food sovereignty. With a call for u...
In this episode, we sit down with Akos Asare from Re.Planted Farm & Floral Studio, who shares her inspiring journey from running a custom wig business to becoming a suburban flower farmer. Akos reveals how the COVID-19 pandemic prompted her to pivot and embrace farming as a response to global supply chain challenges and her quest for deeper fulfillment. We discuss the challenges of transitioning into farming without an agricultural background, the importance of following your intuition, and ...
This week, we speak with Shane Harper, chef-turned-farmer who combines culinary expertise with innovative farming practices to bridge the gap between the farm and the table. Shane shares his journey from running pastry kitchens in Toronto to becoming a grower for one of Canada's premier farm-to-table restaurants. He explores how his structured approach in fine dining kitchens informed his farming methods, focusing on efficiency, flavor, and the lifecycle of plants. We dive into his philosophy of...
In this solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier dives into the evolving landscape of sustainable farming, exploring the differences and connections between organic, regenerative, and small-scale agriculture. He highlights the importance of maintaining organic certification to ensure transparency and accountability while addressing concerns about greenwashing in the regenerative movement. JM emphasizes the need for localized, decentralized farming systems rooted in healthy soils and human-scale operati...
In this episode, we dive into the world of market gardening with Jodi Roebuck , a globally inspired farmer from New Zealand . Jodi shares his journey from surfing on volcanic coastlines to building a thriving farm from compact subsoil, emphasizing soil health, composting, and efficient farming techniques. Drawing on lessons from traveling the world and visiting diverse farms , he highlights the value of learning through hands-on experience and cross-disciplinary inspiration. We discuss the princ...
In this episode, we explore the connection between natural wine and terroir-focused vegetables with our guest, Myrtha Zierock, a biodynamic vineyard manager turned small-scale vegetable farmer. Myrtha shares her journey of integrating diversified farming into a wine estate, emphasizing soil health, biodiversity, and the artistry of farming. Discover how vegetables can be celebrated with the same prestige as wine through concepts like tastings and storytelling. We also delve into the challenges o...
This week, we speak with Benjamin Fahrer , a permaculture designer and farmer, who combines ecological principles with innovative rooftop farm designs across cities in California. Benjamin shares how his background in building and permaculture design shaped his vision for creating resilient food systems . We explore the importance of soil health, biodiversity, and regenerative practices in addressing both climate and social challenges. Benjamin highlights the value of fresh, nutrient-dense produ...
