The Acres U.S.A. Podcast

What if pigs weren’t a problem—but one of the most powerful tools for regeneration?In this episode of ‘The Acres USA Podcast’, Jordan Green of J&L Green Farm shares a practical, no-nonsense approach to using pigs to transform degraded woods into thriving silvopastures. Drawing from over a decade of hands-on experience, Jordan breaks down how to work with a pig’s natural instincts—turning disturbance into a force for soil building, forage growth, and long-term farm profitability.He challenges common “pastured pig” practices that fall short of true regeneration, and lays out a clear framework for what regenerative management actually looks like: intentional movement, rest, recovery, and measurable ecosystem improvement.You’ll learn:Why most outdoor pig systems fail to be regenerative—and how to fix itHow pigs can replace expensive machinery for clearing and soil prepStep-by-step insights into converting forest into productive silvopastureReal numbers on stocking rates, costs, and cash-flow strategiesCreative ways to monetize land during the transition (from firewood to specialty products)How to stack enterprises—pigs, cattle, timber, and more—on the same acreageWhether you’re raising livestock, managing land, or exploring regenerative agriculture, this episode offers a grounded, experience-driven roadmap to building resilient, profitable systems—without massive upfront capital.Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025Jordan’s Website: https://jlgreenfarm.com/

On today’s episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, discover how JR Burdick, an 11th-generation farmer, transformed his conventional dairy farm into a profitable, regenerative, direct-to-consumer operation. In this episode, JR shares his journey from industry frustration to success through authenticity, community, and a passion for real food. Learn how he overcame challenges like storms and market pressures to innovate and grow.Key insights include:Honest pricing and value communicationBuilding customer loyalty through trustCutting costs by eliminating unnecessary chemicalsScaling based on customer demandDiversifying through niche markets and community engagementThis episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about reviving small farms and strengthening local food systems. JR’s story is a blueprint for making farm life profitable, sustainable, and meaningful.Thank you to our Sponsors of Today’s Episode:Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/American Farmland Trust: https://farmland.org/Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025Jr’s Website: https://www.nourishingfamilyfarm.com/

In this episode of The Acres U.S.A. Podcast, host Taylor Henry interviews AJ Richards, a ranching advocate and CEO of From the Farm. AJ shares his journey from a ranching family to becoming an entrepreneur focused on connecting farmers and ranchers directly with consumers. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by the cattle industry during COVID-19, the economic struggles of small-scale slaughterhouses, and the importance of consumer education in understanding local food systems. AJ also discusses the role of USDA certification and the innovative platform he has created to support local producers in selling their products directly to consumers. In this conversation, AJ and Taylor also discuss the importance of building a direct consumer base in the beef market, the influence of government policies on agriculture, and the challenges faced by small producers in navigating regulatory environments. They emphasize the need for consumer education and the role of social media in shaping perceptions about food production. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of market control and the necessity for producers to adapt to changing consumer demands.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025From the Farm: https://fromthefarm.org/

Join us for this special live panel recording from Eco-Ag 2025, featuring regenerative agriculture leaders Gabe Brown, Rick Clark, and John Kempf, moderated by Taylor Henry. In this wide-ranging conversation, the panel dives into what it takes to build profitable, resilient farms in today’s volatile economic landscape. From cutting costs and escaping the commodity trap to value-added production, succession planning, and restoring rural communities, the speakers share hard-earned insights from decades on the land. You’ll hear practical frameworks for managing debt, investing wisely, mentoring the next generation, and designing farm businesses that prioritize independence, relationships, and long-term resilience. Tune in for a candid, thought-provoking discussion on how regenerative agriculture can secure both economic success and a thriving future for farmers and rural America.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/2025 Eco-Ag Recordings: https://www.conference.acresusa.com/recordings-2025

In this throwback recording from Eco-Ag 1996, join Gary Zimmer as he talks through the principles of biological farming, sharing his journey from a dairy nutritionist to a pioneer in sustainable agriculture. Discover how understanding soil biology, mineral balance, and innovative farming techniques can transform agricultural practices and yield healthier crops. Whether you're a seasoned farmer or just curious about sustainable farming, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/Gary’s Books: The Biological Farmer, Advancing Biological Farming

Throwback to the 2019 Eco-Ag Conference where we join Dr. Nasha Winters as she delves into the intricate relationship between our health and the environment in this enlightening episode. Discover how the quality of our soil impacts our well-being, the role of the microbiome in disease prevention, and the power of diet in managing chronic illnesses. With insights from her personal journey and professional experience, Dr. Winters challenges conventional medical wisdom and empowers listeners to take control of their health through informed choices. Tune in for a transformative discussion on nurturing both our internal and external environments.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/Nasha’s Book: The Metabolic Approach to CancerNasha’s Website: https://drnasha.com/

Join Taylor Henry from Acres USA in an engaging conversation with Hubert and Suzanne Carman, set to speak at the Acres USA Eco-Ag Conference. Discover their journey into sustainable farming, from meeting at an Acres U.S.A. Conference a decade ago to transforming a once barren landscape into thriving pastures. They share practical steps for building productive pasture-based livestock systems, increasing soil organic matter, and the challenges and triumphs of dairy farming in a regenerative setting. Learn about their innovative methods, such as the use of various plants, organic practices, and the importance of community in agriculture. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in regenerative farming, from beginners to seasoned farmers.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Register for Eco-Ag 2025: https://conference.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/Hubert and Suzanne’s Website: https://reverencefarms.com/

In this episode of ‘The Acres U.S.A. Podcast’, host Taylor Henry welcomes Dr. Patrick Freeze, a soil health scientist and R&D technical specialist at Ward Laboratories. Dr. Freeze shares his extensive background in soil chemistry, heavy metal contamination, and international research. They dive into topics such as sustainable farming practices, soil health testing, remediation strategies, and challenges related to heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils. Dr. Freeze also provides insights into the practical steps for transitioning from conventional to regenerative farming and discusses the role of compost, biochar, and other amendments in maintaining soil health. Tune in to learn more about the latest innovations and research in eco-agriculture.Important Links from Today’s Episode:Members site: https://members.acresusa.comAcres U.S.A. Homepage: https://www.acresusa.com/Register for Eco-Ag 2025: https://conference.acresusa.com/Acres U.S.A. Memberships: https://eco-farming.com/Ward Labs: https://www.wardlab.com/