Podcast Extra: Ask Me Anything with John Kempf from February 13

Join us for an engaging webinar with John Kempf, renowned crop health consultant and founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture. In this Ask Me Anything format, growers had the opportunity to ask John their pressing questions about topics impacting their farm. Drawing from his extensive research and firsthand experience, John  provided insights and practical solutions to help growers achieve healthier, more resilient crops. In this episode, John and the audience discuss: How early-season sap analysis can help optimize fruit tree nutrition and quality How anion exchange capacity, selenium applications, and calcium can improve soil health Strategic use of nutrients like urea, magnesium sulfate, and trace minerals Intercropping, crop rotations, and soil microbiology Optimizing wheat protein, test weight, and soybean disease resistance increases productivity BioCoat Gold and SeedFlare and how they can improve seedling health and nutrient absorption Biological methods of controlling nematodes, slugs, and seedling diseases without harmful chemicals Evaluating weed control strategies minimizes soil microbiome disruption How farmer intuition and observation play a key role in successful regenerative practices. Synchronizing nutrient applications with plant growth Additional Resources To watch more John Kempf content on YouTube, please subscribe to AEA’s channel: https://www.youtube.com/@AdvancingEcoAgriculture About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Gavin Heywood is an Australian farmer and entrepreneur from New South Wales, whose family has worked on the same land for over 120 years. He runs a unique business, Serum Australis, which supplies animal blood for medical diagnostics, research, and commercial applications while managing his farm with holistic grazing practices. Gavin’s journey into the blood industry began with his background in laboratory work and an early attempt to sell goat serum, which led to his discovery of a larger market for horse blood. Alongside his business, he is committed to regenerative agriculture, using time-controlled grazing to restore degraded farmland, increase biodiversity, and improve soil health. In this episode, John and Gavin discuss: Running 250 horses in a single mob using time-controlled grazing Supplying blood and serum for hospitals, universities, and research labs under strict ethical guideline Gavin’s years of trial and error building a successful niche business Using horses as a tool for breaking up soil, regenerating pastures, and fostering tree growth Creating ecosystem improvements, including better water retention and increased plant diversity Gavin’s plans to expand his regenerative efforts by transitioning toward cattle and sheep grazing Additional Resources To learn more about Serum Australis and the work Gavin is doing, please visit: https://www.serumaustralis.com.au/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Bob Quinn is an organic farmer and researcher with a Ph.D. in plant biochemistry. Bob introduced and trademarked Kamut, an ancient wheat variety with anti-inflammatory properties. His research highlights its higher nutrient density and benefits for those with wheat sensitivities.  Bob grew up on a wheat farm in Montana, and transitioned to organic farming in the 1980s. After selling his businesses, he founded the Quinn Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to regenerative organic research and food as medicine. His work focuses on soil health, nutrient density, and the connection between food and human health. In this episode, John and Bob discuss: How nutrient-dense food can promote health and prevent disease How Kamut wheat has been shown to reduce inflammation compared to modern wheat The importance of revitalizing soil microbiomes to improve gut health Why strengthening regional food systems enhances food security and resilience The industrial food processing of vegetable oils, and their impact on health and nutrition Additional Resources To learn more about Bob Quinn and the work of the Quinn Institute, please visit: https://quinninstitute.org/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Jason Rowntree is a professor of Animal Science at Michigan State University, where he has spent the last 16 years studying regenerative grazing systems and their impact on soil health, ecosystems, and beef nutrient density. Jason currently leads a $19 million research project across 60 U.S. ranches, using remote sensing and on-ground monitoring to measure carbon sequestration, water cycles, and biodiversity. His goal is to create economic incentives that support farmers and ranchers in adopting regenerative practices. In this discussion, John and Jason discuss: How nutrient density in beef can be significantly altered in the last 30–60 days of finishing Variations in nutrient profiles, with some "grass-fed" samples showing high omega-6 levels comparable to grain-fed beef. Unique markers that can authenticate truly grass-fed beef, offering the potential for more transparent labeling. Carbon sequestration through managed grazing How planting diverse pasture mixes creates greater nutrient density in beef About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com

Dr. Cynthia Daley is a respected leader in sustainable agriculture who works to bridge the gap between academic research and practical regenerative farming practices. She has spent decades advocating for more innovative approaches to agriculture, critiquing outdated university methodologies that fail to support ecological farming systems. As the founding director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at California State University, Chico, Cindy has led efforts to transition academic programs toward regenerative principles and foster collaborations with pioneering farmers. In this discussion, John and Cindy discuss: Using systems-based research over traditional single-variable studies  Incorporating flux towers to measure real-time carbon flux and soil health improvements Partnering with growers as co-researchers to advance regenerative practice Developing a degree program in regenerative agriculture to educate future farmers and leaders The role of regenerative practices in improving farm viability. Emphasizing the need for agricultural policy shifts to support ecological farming practices  Additional Resources: To learn more about the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at California State University, Chico, please visit: https://www.csuchico.edu/regenerativeagriculture/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Benina Burroughs began farming almonds with her father in 2002. Now, as CEO and co-owner of Burroughs Family Farms, she has innovated ecological practices in nut growing. She transitioned the entire farm to organic 2015 and has received dual regenerative certifications from the Regenerative Organic Alliance and Regenified. Benina has led efforts to diversify operations, adding organic olives, walnuts, and pasture-raised poultry, and continues to advance sustainable practices. Burroughs Family Farms is located in California’s Merced County, and has been family-operated since 1906, evolving from dairy to a diverse organic operation. Benina’s parents, Ward and Rose Marie Burroughs, introduced organic methods, rotational grazing, and biodiversity initiatives, laying the groundwork for the farm’s sustainable tfransformation and inspiring Benina to continue the legacy of innovation and stewardship. In this episode, Benina and John discuss: The Burroughs family shifting from dairy to organic almond and walnut farming Keeping the soil covered to enhance health and water retention How sheep grazing helps manage orchard vegetation and reduces mowing needs Cover crops and their impact on the soil and farm The importance of increasing nutrient density in food Innovative marketing strategies that support the farm’s growth Additional Resources: To learn more about Burroughs Family Farm, please visit: https://burroughsfamilyfarms.com/ To sign up for the field day on January 22nd, please visit: https://burroughsfamilyfarms.com/pages/regenerative-almond-field-day About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Andy Cato is a musician and regenerative agriculture advocate, best known as one-half of the electronic music duo “Groove Armada.” After reading about the environmental problems caused by industrial food systems, Andy sold his music publishing rights, purchased a depleted farm in southwestern France, and embarked on a journey to restore its health through trial, error, and regenerative techniques. Today, Andy is the co-founder of Wild Farmed and a prominent voice in sustainable agriculture. Wild Farmed connects a network of farmers through transparent, traceable supply chains, enabling consumers to make ethical food choices that support biodiversity and soil health. The initiative demonstrates that ecological stewardship and high-quality food production can thrive together, aiming to reshape the future of the food system. In this discussion, John and Andy discuss: Andy’s journey to regenerative agriculture  Challenges farming with degraded soils Incorporating multi-species cover crops, companion planting, and roll crimping The creation and mission of Wild Farmed The importance of connection and collaboration in regenerative agriculture Additional Resources: To learn more about Wild Farmed, please visit: https://wildfarmed.com/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide.   Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

This special episode of the Regenerative Agriculture Podcast highlights insights from nine of this year’s guests who are driving innovation in regenerative farming. From practical techniques to transformative ideas, these clips showcase the power of regenerative practices to improve soils, ecosystems, and farm profitability. Featured Guests: Rick Clark: No-till organic farming pioneer Erin Martin: Food as medicine advocate with FreshRX Dr. James White: Expert in plant-microbe symbiosis Amy Williams: Champion of regenerative cotton in fashion Keith Berns: Innovator in multi-species cover crops Marty Travis: Leader in community-focused farming Lana Shaw: Researcher advancing intercropping techniques Benny McLean: Regenerative citrus farmer Taimur Malik: Innovator transforming desert agriculture Thank you to our listeners for supporting the podcast and for your commitment to advancing regenerative agriculture. Your curiosity and passion inspire these conversations, and we look forward to continuing this journey with you in the coming year! Additional Resources To listen to more episodes of the Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, please visit: https://regenerativeagriculturepodcast.com/ About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com  

Del Ficke has revolutionized cattle breeding and soil regeneration practices during his decades of ranching. Del is the fourth generation to manage his family operation, Ficke Cattle Company, in Pleasant Hill, Nebraska, which was established in the late 1860s. He has carried on its legacy with a focus on sustainability and profitability. In 2015, he trademarked the Grazemaster breed, a composite of multiple breeds tailored for grazing efficiency and minimal reliance on external inputs. Del is also a founding member of the Graze Master Group which provides consulting services for farms and ranches, focusing on sustainable practices, optimizing resources, and fostering long-term profitability Del's journey began in conventional farming, but his experiences led him to question traditional methods that heavily relied on chemical inputs and intensive machinery. Transitioning to regenerative practices, he eliminated silage chopping and chemical fertilization, opting instead for rotational grazing and natural herd health management. In this episode, John and Del discuss:  Developing the Grazemaster breed to thrive on specific forage types and grazing systems Why Del transitioned from conventional farming to regenerative practices Implementing rotational grazing and prairie rehabilitation to restore native grasses  Prioritizing natural selection for cattle traits such as calving ease and resilience Advocating for a mindset shift in agriculture, urging producers to question traditional practices and embrace innovation The interconnectedness of livestock, soil health, and community The economic and environmental benefits of regenerative practices Additional ResourcesTo learn more about Del Ficke and Ficke Cattle Company, please visit: https://www.fickecattle.com/ To learn more about the Graze Masters Group, please visit: https://www.grazemastergroup.com/ About John KempfJohn Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You GrowSince 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com

Dan Brown is a fifth-generation farmer who grows hazelnuts in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, the primary hazelnut-growing region in the United States. Dan is always experimenting with new growing methods, and views failures as opportunities for learning and growth. This perspective has led to significant successes, such as improving yields while reducing input costs and demonstrating the potential for regenerative practices in hazelnut farming. In this episode, John and Dan discuss:  Farming hazelnuts in Oregon’s unique microclimate Tackling soil compaction, erosion, and disease resistance Using sap analysis and foliar feeding to optimize crop health Testing new ideas on small scales despite potential failures Dealing with shifts in market demands Reducing nitrogen applications  About John Kempf John Kempf is the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture (AEA). A top expert in biological and regenerative farming, John founded AEA in 2006 to help fellow farmers by providing the education, tools, and strategies that will have a global effect on the food supply and those who grow it. Through intense study and the knowledge gleaned from many industry leaders, John is building a comprehensive systems-based approach to plant nutrition – a system solidly based on the sciences of plant physiology, mineral nutrition, and soil microbiology. Support For This Show & Helping You Grow Since 2006, AEA has been on a mission to help growers become more resilient, efficient, and profitable with regenerative agriculture.  AEA works directly with growers to apply its unique line of liquid mineral crop nutrition products and biological inoculants. Informed by cutting-edge plant and soil data-gathering techniques, AEA’s science-based programs empower farm operations to meet the crop quality markers that matter the most. AEA has created real and lasting change on millions of acres with its products and data-driven services by working hand-in-hand with growers to produce healthier soil, stronger crops, and higher profits. Beyond working on the ground with growers, AEA leads in regenerative agriculture media and education, producing and distributing the popular and highly-regarded Regenerative Agriculture Podcast, inspiring webinars, and other educational content that serve as go-to resources for growers worldwide. Learn more about AEA’s regenerative programs and products: https://www.advancingecoag.com