As we cross the threshold into double digit episodes, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the key takeaways from the last 9 guest episodes. Throughout these conversations, we’ve explored topics from the importance of cultivating a connection with the land we inhabit, to how technology can enhance our relationship with the Earth at large.

Other key takeaways include…

• How community and food go hand-in-hand

• Why every community should have a farm

• The new wave of agriculture we’re experiencing

• Rewriting the story of what it means to be a farmer

• Why focusing on local doesn’t mean abandoning global

• How to engage kids in the food system

• … And more!

We have many more episodes coming your way that we’re so excited to share. Thank you so much for being here!

On today’s episode, we’re joined by Leya Van Doren. Leya is a podcast host, writer, and maker of medicines.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the profound, healing aspects of working with the unseen mysteries of the Earth. Leya tells the story of how moving to Michigan was a catalyst for reconnecting her to her child-like wonder, and how building her relationship to nature revealed the magic that’s present in every moment. We also discuss the ways in which nature is a mirror, and new ways to look at the fear that is commonly experienced when stepping into unknown territory.

Tune in to learn more about:

• Why we should be paying attention to the plants that naturally show up in our environment

• Plants as a healing guide and ally to overcoming trauma

• Cultivating a connection to your local ecosystem through foraging

• Connecting with ancestors through exploring the plants that grew around them

• Moving towards sourcing food locally as a way to connect with the land

• The importance of doing careful research before consuming a plant you’ve never foraged before

• … And so much more!

Resources Mentioned:

• The Wild Swans fairytale: https://andersen.sdu.dk/vaerk/hersholt/TheWildSwans_e.html

Connect with Leya:

• Follow Leya on Instagram: @leyavandoren

• Follow the Creative Soul Podcast on Instagram: @thecreativesoulpodcast
  

On today’s episode, we’re joined by David Berning. David runs the Cardiff Tiny Farm, located in his hometown in Encinitas, CA.

In this conversation, we explore the concept of being in a reciprocal relationship with a piece of land, and the mindset shifts that help us avoid exploiting land for profit. We talk about the importance of community building as an investment into our future and the future of the planet. We also discuss his new company, RootSeller, which is an online platform that helps users easily discover local food in their community.

Tune in to learn more about:

• The story of how David went from serving as a volunteer at the Tiny Farm to taking on a lead role

• Navigating the complexities of growing a community farm

• Being of service in the context of farming, and how to stay true to that mission

• Learning the language of a piece of land, and what it means to listen

• Finding the balance between idealism and practicalities

• Food as a way to bring people back to what matters

• Leveraging farm events as a latent income stream

Resources Mentioned:

• Download the RootSeller App: https://www.rootseller.app/

• Regenerative Business Education w/ Carol Sanford: https://carolsanfordinstitute.com/

Connect with David:

• Follow David on Instagram: @project_sabi

• Follow Cardiff Tiny Farm on Instagram: @1000tinyfarms

• Follow RootSeller App on Instagram: @rootsellerapp