Transforming Food Systems through Agroecology

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Chris as we uncover the hidden complexities and unexpected realities of starting a farm business. Chris shares his unique journey, which began under the grim assumption of a limited lifespan due to health issues. This led him to neglect a detailed business plan initially, resulting in a steep learning curve. He emphasizes the crucial role of solid business foundations such as capital, labor, and clear goals, highlighting that the hands-on, visible aspects of farming are just a small fraction of what makes a farm successful. Chris candidly contrasts romanticized visions of farming with the logistical and strategic challenges faced in reality. We then shift focus to the broader challenges of being an entrepreneur, especially for those transitioning from technical roles to management positions. Chris discusses the pitfalls of such transitions, drawing parallels between middle managers and entrepreneurs overwhelmed by their new roles. Our conversation explores Blackbird and Sylvan Aquin's innovative approach to creating a sustainable business model that pays living wages by integrating agribusiness and agriculture. This approach helps offset the low margins in farming by leveraging higher-margin agribusiness activities, aiming to create a system where individuals don't have to be entrepreneurs to succeed. In the latter part of our episode, we tackle the larger socio-political implications of ethical business growth and the role of social entrepreneurship in challenging capitalism. Chris provides insights into the need for practical business acumen and realistic goals to achieve political and ethical objectives. We also discuss the importance of creating businesses that ethically redistribute wealth, building economic centers that can drive political change. Listen in as we explore the necessity of understanding business fundamentals, maintaining community accountability, and creating a culture of fairness to achieve meaningful progress and sustainable change. Purchase meat and eggs from the Blackbird Coop here: https://blackbirdcoop.com/ Check out Chris's book First Generation farming here: https://stan.store/sylvanaquafarms/p/first-generation-farming For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Farm Business, Ethics, Profitability, Entrepreneurship, Blackbird, Sylvanaqua, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Capital, Labor, Business Plan, Logistical Challenges, Strategic Realities, Romanticized Visions, Solid Business Foundations, Middle Managers, Technical Roles, Management, Sustainable Model, Living Wages, Capitalist Structures, Socio-Political Implications, Social Entrepreneurship, Political Change, Historical Successes, Modern Challenges, Community Accountability, Culture of Fairness, Left-Wing Politics, Ethical Business Choices, Economic Change, Equitable Societal Outcomes

Join us as we welcome Dr. Maria Rusca, a senior lecturer in global development at the University of Manchester, who brings her extensive research on urban inequalities and environmental governance to our discussion. Maria will illuminate the pressing issues of gendered access to water and sanitation services in sub-Saharan African cities, with a poignant case study of Cape Town's severe drought from 2015 to 2018. Understand how socioeconomic disparities shape the vulnerabilities and resilience of different communities during extreme climate events, and why equitable urban planning is essential for future sustainability. Our conversation then shifts to the intricate challenges of water management, both in Cape Town and globally, including the United States. We uncover how merely increasing water supply is insufficient without addressing the underlying socioeconomic inequalities that impact water consumption and access. Maria's insights urge us to reconsider societal priorities and the role of sustainable consumption and climate justice in effective climate adaptation strategies. This episode critiques the limitations of technocratic fixes and advocates for more holistic, structural changes. Finally, we spotlight the remarkable advocacy efforts of Shack Dwellers International (SDI) in improving water and sanitation services in informal settlements. Discover how SDI’s innovative use of saving groups and data collection campaigns bring affordable, high-quality services to low-income residents, who often pay more for inferior water services. The episode also extends the discussion to developed nations, examining the broader implications of climate change and the need for resilience and equity in our responses. Maria shares inspiring examples of human adaptability, encouraging listeners to remain hopeful and proactive in confronting the challenges ahead. For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Urban Inequalities, Environmental Governance, Gendered Access, Water and Sanitation Services, Sub-Saharan African Cities, Cape Town, Drought, Socioeconomic Disparities, Climate Events, Urban Planning, Water Management, United States, Sustainable Consumption, Climate Justice, Technocratic Fixes, Structural Changes, Shack Dwellers International, Informal Settlements, Saving Groups, Data Collection, Climate Change, Resilience, Equitable Advocacy, Oppressive Measures, Hurricane Harvey, Marginalized Communities, Water Shortages, Inaccessibility, Human Resilience, Adaptability, Hope, Atlantic Current

Get ready for an enlightening discussion with Lyndsie Bourgon as we unpack the complex world of illegal timber harvesting on the West Coast. Bourgon, whose fascination with the topic began with a 2012 news story about stolen old-growth cedar in British Columbia, provides a fresh perspective on tree poaching. We go beyond the black-and-white narrative of "bad people doing bad things" to reveal the deep economic, cultural, and historical roots that drive individuals to engage in this illicit activity. Our conversation takes a deep dive into the enduring impact of the timber wars of the early 1990s in Northern California, where the expansion of Redwoods National Park left local communities feeling unheard and betrayed. We explore the flawed economic transitions from logging to tourism, and the societal stigmas around accepting government aid. Listen as we discuss the persistent distrust toward agencies like the Forest Service and National Park Service, and the frustration that fuels resistance to change in these rural communities. In the final segment, we delve into the ethical dilemmas faced by those involved in tree poaching, the environmental damage caused by rushed harvesting, and the specialized skills that poachers take pride in. Borgon also shares her insights into current research on community forest management, highlighting inspiring stories from Scotland's Land Reform Act. This episode challenges conventional thinking and seeks comprehensive, empathetic solutions to the multifaceted issues of illegal timber harvesting. Don’t miss out on this captivating conversation that offers a deeper understanding of the socio-economic complexities at play. Check Out Lyndsie's work at: https://www.lyndsiebourgon.com/ and on social media at @LyndsieBourgon For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Illegal Timber Harvesting, West Coast, Economic Development, Rural Communities, Environmental Ethics, Community Land Management, Timber Wars, Redwoods National Park, Logging, Conservation, Socio-Historical Context, Empathy, Sustainable Practices, Drug Use, Methamphetamine, Scotland, Land Reform Act, Law Enforcement, Research Process

Join us as we explore a transformative journey through the protests surrounding the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. This firsthand account guides us through the emotional highs and lows of modern activism, from initial ignorance about the Palestinian cause to the solidarity and danger faced on the streets. Hear about the diverse range of organizations banding together, the historical echoes of 1968, and the meticulous preparations to safeguard against police violence. Our deep dive doesn't stop there. We also reflect on the recent pro-choice protest in Chicago, highlighting the intersection of grassroots movements and media dynamics. Discover the intricate balance between protesters' efforts and media portrayal, the overwhelming pro-Palestinian sentiment, and the pivotal role of legal observers. The physical demands and profound sense of solidarity among various activist groups are brought to light, underscoring the vital role of collective action in political discourse. In a candid conversation with a healthcare worker advocating for Palestinian rights, we uncover the harsh realities of police brutality and the tactical measures taken by protesters to protect themselves. From navigating police presence to the unity within leftist groups, these insights offer a comprehensive look at protest strategies and the philosophies driving the movement. A local official weighs in on the importance of grassroots involvement and the urgent need for unity within the US left to achieve meaningful change. Get ready for a narrative that not only informs but also inspires action.   For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Road Trip, Podcast, 2020 Election, COVID-19, U.S. Political Landscape, Trump, Biden, Democratic Party, USAID, Israel, Labor Rights, LGBTQIA+ Rights, Police Accountability, Campus Tensions, Palestinian Cause, State Violence, Police Reform, Chicago Police Department, Political Unrest, Activism, Collective Action, First Amendment Rights, Kamala Harris, Cook County State's Attorney, State Violence, Police Accountability, Oath Keepers, 1968 Democratic National Convention, Progressive Factions, Political Awareness, Activism Movement, Mass Movement, Justice, Hollow Slogans, Empty Promises

In this compelling episode of The Port Proles Almanac, we delve into the intricate dynamics of political activism surrounding the upcoming Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. From the grassroots struggles of the Coalition to March on the DNC to the bureaucratic hurdles in securing protest permits, we unpack the multifaceted challenges activists face. Featuring an insightful conversation with Faayani, spokesperson for the coalition, and member of the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, we explore the group's intersectional advocacy, including labor rights, LGBTQIA+ rights, and police accountability. We also draw historical parallels to the tumultuous 1968 DNC, reflecting on the cyclical nature of political unrest and the enduring fight for justice. This episode examines the broader themes of state violence and police accountability, highlighting recent controversies involving the Chicago Police Department and the distribution of federal funds and how these help us understand the context of the convention. Listeners are urged to engage in the ongoing struggle for justice, challenge the status quo, and recognize collective action's impact in shaping our political future. Join us as we navigate the maze of political activism and explore the historical context and potential of the upcoming DNC protests in Chicago and how this event allows us to identify a new vector to push for a ceasefire and autonomy for the people of Palestine. The Chicago Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression's website for more on the upcoming protest of the convention & Democratic support for the genocide in Palestine: https://www.caarpr.org/   For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Road Trip, Podcast, 2020 Election, COVID-19, U.S. Political Landscape, Trump, Biden, Democratic Party, USAID, Israel, Labor Rights, LGBTQIA+ Rights, Police Accountability, Campus Tensions, Palestinian Cause, State Violence, Police Reform, Chicago Police Department, Political Unrest, Activism, Collective Action, First Amendment Rights, Kamala Harris, Cook County State's Attorney, State Violence, Police Accountability, Oath Keepers, 1968 Democratic National Convention, Progressive Factions, Political Awareness, Activism Movement, Mass Movement, Justice, Hollow Slogans, Empty Promises

Unlock the secrets of resilient gardening and sustainable agriculture with Eric, a pioneer in the permaculture movement. Discover how perennial vegetables can bolster global food security and improve diets, as Eric shares his personal journey from intern to influential thought leader in the perennial crops space. We'll explore the nutritional depths and availability of these remarkable plants, and how they can transform food systems to tackle malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies worldwide. Join us as we critically examine the permaculture movement and the sophisticated mechanisms plants use to redistribute soil nutrients. Eric and I discuss the importance of credibility, the concept of "post-permaculturalist" thinking, and the pitfalls of overpromising within regenerative agriculture. We'll navigate the complexities of modern farming, balancing conventional and sustainable practices, and explore the potential for democratized plant breeding and accessible gardening methods. From acorn flour to edible tree leaves, this episode ventures into the underexplored realms of multi-use plants and their role in sustainable agriculture. Eric shares insights from his latest projects in agroforestry and indigenous food practices, offering practical strategies for integrating perennial crops into our food systems. Learn from Eric's extensive research and latest book releases, and be inspired to contribute to a more resilient and ecologically sound future. Check out Eric's work at: https://www.perennialsolutions.org/ For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Resilient Gardening, Sustainable Agriculture, Permaculture, Perennial Vegetables, Global Food Security, Nutrition, Food Systems, Food Sovereignty, Nutrient Deficiencies, Credibility, Post-Permaculturalist, Regenerative Agriculture, Complexity, Conventional and Sustainable Practices, Democratized Plant Breeding, Agroforestry, Indigenous Food Practices, Multi-Use Plants, Nutritional Benefits, Ecological Sustainability, Climate Change, Resilient Food Systems, Ecosystem Restoration, Perennial Crops, Acorn Flour, Bioplastics, Agroforestry Manuals, Indigenous Agricultural Practices, Plant Enthusiast, Passing on Knowledge

  Esteemed historian Dr. Horne joins us for an eye-opening discussion about his new book, "Armed Struggle? Panthers and Communists, Black Nationalists and Liberals in Southern California through the 60s and 70s." This episode dives deep into the intricacies of organizing under capitalism, informed by Dr. Horne's personal experiences with the Black Panther Party. We also revisit his thought-provoking analysis of Washington DC, where the paradox of power and race reveals much about the foundational myths of the United States. Dr. Horne challenges us to rethink the historical narratives that shape our understanding of American history, particularly the events of 1776 and their limited impact on indigenous peoples and enslaved populations. Our conversation does not shy away from the hard truths of America's political landscape. We explore the historical decisions of the NAACP and their relevance to modern activism, the arduous task of campaigning against military spending, and the pressing need for a revitalized labor movement. Dr. Horne discusses "settler colonialism" and unpacks its implications, both historically and in today's context, touching on issues like Cherokee assimilation and class collaboration. We also address the counterrevolution against diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and the precarious future for undocumented workers should Trump return to office. This multifaceted episode promises to be as enlightening as it is thought-provoking. To hear Dr. Horne further, check out the activist news network: https://www.youtube.com/@activistnewsnetwork His new book can be purchased at: https://www.intpubnyc.com/browse/armed-struggle/   For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Historian, Black Panther Party, Capitalism, Washington DC, Indigenous Peoples, Enslaved Population, NAACP, Military Spending, Labor Movement, Settler Colonialism, Cherokee Assimilation, Class Collaboration, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Counterrevolution, Undocumented Workers, Slavery, Arson, Resistance, Thomas Jefferson

Join us as we welcome the insightful Dr. Peter Rosset, an esteemed agroecologist and activist embedded in the heart of Central America. Dr. Rosset brings his wealth of experience with La Via Campesina—a formidable global social movement uniting over 200 million rural families—to our discussion. Together, we dissect the pivotal role this movement plays in championing indigenous rights and food sovereignty while defending nature, rural life, and equitable access to land. Contrast the principles of agroecology with the entrenched norms of industrial agriculture, and explore how harmonious, socially just farming practices can resist the tide of agribusiness and revitalize rural landscapes, particularly in the Global South. Our exploration extends into the political undercurrents that have shaped agricultural revolutions in Latin America, influenced by historic movements like the Vietnam War and Black Power Movement. Discover the journey of a politically-engaged individual whose technical support during the Nicaraguan revolution and subsequent experiences across Latin America underscore the complexities of fostering ethical agricultural systems. Learn practical ways to support farm workers, indigenous land claims, and family farmers in the U.S. Finally, we turn our focus to Cuba, where innovative agricultural practices, such as urban organopanicos and the campesino-to-campesino model, emerged from necessity and now stand as beacons of sustainable food production. Reflect on Cuba's lessons of ecological resilience and social equity, crucial as we confront the challenges posed by climate change. To read Dr. Rosset's work, check out the following: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=U8xYmpEAAAAJ&hl=en The book we reference is the following: Agroecology: Science and Politics (Agrarian Change and Peasant Studies: Little Books on Big Issues) by Peter M. Rosset (Author), Miguel A. Altieri (Author)   For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Agroecology, La Via Campesina, Indigenous Rights, Food Sovereignty, Nature, Rural Life, Land Access, Industrial Agriculture, Global South, Political Undercurrents, Agricultural Revolutions, Latin America, Vietnam War, Black Power Movement, Ethical Agricultural Systems, Farm Workers, Indigenous Land Claims, Family Farmers, Cuba, Urban Organoponicos, Campesino-to-Campesino Model, Ecological Resilience, Social Equity, Climate Change, Sustainable Food Production

Have modern agricultural practices led us down an unsustainable path, and are the so-called "green" alternatives really any better? Discover the truth as we explore the evolution of alternative agriculture and unpack the misleading narratives surrounding terms like "organic" and "regenerative." We'll delve into the historical roots and political dimensions of agroecology, examining how this vital movement emerged in Latin America as a counter to the top-down failures of the Green Revolution. With a focus on context, we spotlight how language shapes our understanding and approach to building future food systems. In this episode, we shine a light on the principles and practices that set agroecology apart, emphasizing its local, knowledge-intensive methods that contrast sharply with industrial agricultural models. Learn how agroecology has become a cornerstone of resistance among peasant and indigenous communities, fostering resilience and autonomy in the face of global destabilization. Through global perspectives, we'll showcase how agroecology supports biodiversity and traditional foodways, while also considering scalable, sustainable alternatives that integrate appropriate technologies to enhance community well-being. Join us as we explore innovative small-scale projects and successful agroecological movements worldwide, questioning the romanticized view of peasant farming and the efficiency of growing one's own food. We propose a model that aligns crop selection with native ecological conditions, promoting harmony with the land and addressing issues of alienation and redundancy. Ultimately, we underscore the importance of justice, traditional land stewardship, and decentralized food systems in creating a sustainable agricultural future for all beings, amidst ecological and colonial challenges. For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Agroecology, Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Sustainable Agriculture, Global South, Peasant Resistance Movements, Community Agriculture, Small-scale Farming, Food Systems, Justice, Restorative Agroecology, Indigenous Peoples, Decolonization, Biodiversity, Food Security, Climate Change, Traditional Foodways, Community Ownership, Collective Effort, Sustainable Futures, Political Dimensions

Can suburban backyards become the cornerstone of our sustainable future? Join us as we dissect the ideas in David Holmgren's "Retro Suburbia," where he envisions a world shaped by energy descent and societal degrowth. We kick off with Holmgren's strategic re-release of his book during the COVID-19 pandemic and his bold claims, examining the validity of his assertions and his data. Holmgren's blended manual-manifesto style of his work are scrutinized for their impact and credibility. While Holmgren's vision is compelling, we challenge the individualistic ethos often echoed by prominent permaculture figures. By contrasting historical communal living with today's nuclear solutions, we advocate for more pragmatic, collective approaches like shared canning centers and communal storage. We delve into the impracticalities of doubling household infrastructures and emphasize the efficiency of systemic community-based solutions, arguing that resilience and sustainability are best achieved through collective action rather than individual endeavors. In our deep dive into Holmgren's more controversial ideas, we confront his views on human waste management, suburban farming, and population control. Highlighting the need for scientific validation and proper hygiene practices, we question the feasibility and ethics behind some of Holmgren's proposals. From the romanticization of self-sufficiency to troubling perspectives on genetics and women's roles, we stress the importance of critical assessment within the permaculture movement. For sources and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Writing Content, visit: www.agroecologies.org For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: www.poorproles.com For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Retro Suburbia, David Holmgren, Permaculture, Community, Energy Descent, COVID-19, Academic Discussions, Individualistic Narratives, Systemic Solutions, Communal Living, Household Infrastructures, Water Management, Waste Management, Human Waste, Hygiene Practices, Urban Food Production, Population Control, Genetic Legacy, Agroecology, Sustainability