Soul Fresh Soul Clean – Episode 2 Theme: Food, Community & Local Sustainability

In this episode of Soul Fresh Soul Clean, hosts Jocelyn Martinez and Gregory Howell explore the powerful connection between food, community, and local sustainability in Pueblo, Colorado.

We begin with an inside look at the SoulSmile Cookbook Project, where recipes are more than just meals. They are stories, traditions, and living pieces of community history. Jocelyn and Gregory share updates on the growing excitement, the voices being gathered, and why preserving these food stories matters now more than ever.

The conversation then expands into the heart of the episode, how food systems shape our local economy, health, and sense of belonging. From sourcing local ingredients to supporting farmers and makers, this episode highlights how everyday choices, what we eat and where we spend, directly impact the strength of our community.

A major focus is the Sun Soil Water Summit, now in its 5th year, bringing together farmers, food producers, entrepreneurs, and community members to explore real solutions for a resilient local food system. With a makers market, local vendors, and conversations around food economics and sustainability, the summit represents a powerful gathering of people committed to Pueblo’s future.

We also spotlight SoulSmile as a Colorado Proud business, and the importance of building meaningful partnerships with local farmers, producers, and entrepreneurs, many of whom are women leading innovation in Colorado’s food economy.

Throughout the episode, we explore:

• Why local food systems matter

• How local spending strengthens communities

• The connection between healthy food and community wellbeing

• The role of storytelling in preserving culture and identity

Call to Action If you believe in supporting local food, community health, and sustainable futures:

✔ Subscribe to Soul Fresh Soul Clean ✔ Share your ideas for future episodes ✔ Support local farmers, makers, and food producers

Learn more and get your tickets for the Sun Soil Water Summit from March 20 to 22 at Pueblo Community College. Visit pueblofoodproject.org. To connect with Jocelyn: jocelyn@pueblostarjournal.org. To connect with Gregory: gregory@pueblostarjournal.org.