The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson

In this Episode Aly Nickling-Riddle shares her journey from personal tragedy and corporate life to building a homestead in Northern Ontario. After leaving everything behind to travel in a vintage RV, she unexpectedly met her future husband, and together they pursued a simpler, more self-sufficient lifestyle. Aly discusses the realities of homesteading, the emotional and financial challenges many aspiring homesteaders underestimate, and the inspiration behind her book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? This conversation offers a practical roadmap for anyone considering a move toward greater self-reliance.Our Guest: Aly is a Canadian author, keynote speaker, McGill lecturer, and freelance journalist who brings a refreshingly honest perspective to modern homesteading and self-sufficient living. With a background in media, business, and more than a decade of professional writing experience, she helps people think carefully before making major lifestyle changes. Her book, Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?, encourages aspiring homesteaders to look beyond social media ideals and understand the real physical, financial, and emotional demands of rural life. Through workshops, lectures, and presentations, she focuses on practical planning, resilience, sustainability, and building realistic paths toward long-term self-reliance.Key TopicsAly RiddleRiddle Ridge HomesteadHomesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?Self-sufficiency and resilienceEmotional challenges of homesteadingFinancial planning before buying landCommunity and neighbor relationshipsRural versus urban lifestylesInfrastructure costs and land developmentPreparedness and disaster resilienceBuilding realistic homestead plansPersonal consultations for aspiring homesteadersHurricane Helene recovery lessonsThe Encyclopedia of Country Living by Carla EmeryKey Questions AnsweredWhy did Aly choose the homesteading lifestyle?After experiencing multiple personal tragedies and a divorce, Aly decided to rebuild her life from scratch. She left the corporate world, traveled in an RV, and eventually found a path toward a simpler, more intentional lifestyle.What inspired the book Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You?Aly and her husband noticed many people leaving homesteading after only a couple of years because they entered the lifestyle with unrealistic expectations. The book was created to help people understand what they are truly signing up for before they buy land.What makes this book different from other homesteading books?Most homesteading books focus on skills and projects after purchasing land. Aly's book focuses on the planning, financial, emotional, and practical considerations that should happen years before purchasing property.What is the biggest misconception about homesteading?Many people believe homesteading is a slower, stress-free lifestyle. In reality, it replaces urban stresses with different challenges that require resilience, adaptability, and commitment.How does Aly define homesteading?Homesteading is any effort to become more self-sufficient and less dependent on systems that can fail. It can happen in rural settings, suburban backyards, or even urban apartments.What hidden costs surprise new homesteaders?Infrastructure expenses such as wells, septic systems, driveways, utilities, and ongoing maintenance are often underestimated. Many people also overestimate how quickly a homestead can generate income.Why is community important for homesteaders?Strong neighbor relationships provide support, skill sharing, trade opportunities, and resilience during emergencies. Community often determines long-term success more than individual effort.What lesson did Aly learn from a tornado striking her property?The experience reinforced that no amount of planning eliminates uncertainty. Gratitude, adaptability, and resilience become essential when nature disrupts carefully crafted plans.What drives Aly's work today?She is passionate about helping people move from dreaming about self-sufficiency to creating practical, realistic plans that can succeed over the long term.Episode HighlightsAly rebuilt her life after personal tragedy by leaving corporate life and traveling full-time in a vintage RV.She met her future husband on the very first day of a work-camping opportunity in Florida.Their homesteading journey required far more planning and time than they originally expected.Emotional resilience is often more important than practical skills for long-term success.Homesteading can be practiced anywhere, not just on large rural properties.New homesteaders frequently underestimate infrastructure and development costs.Community relationships can be as valuable as land, tools, and equipment.A tornado that dropped over 100 trees on Aly's property became a lesson in gratitude and resilience.Calls to Action & ResourcesBook — Homesteading: Is It the Lifestyle for You? (Available through Amazon and local bookstores)Instagram — Riddle Ridge HomesteadFacebook — Riddle Ridge HomesteadConsulting Services — Personal planning consultations for new and aspiring homesteaders available through the website.Visit www.urbanfarm.org/RiddleRidge for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges.You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

With Shannan Perciballi A Rosie On The House ReplayThis episode explores Arizona’s local food community through a conversation with Shannon Perciballi, publisher and editor of Edible Phoenix. Shannon shares the story behind the magazine’s evolution, her transition from a 35-year restaurant career into publishing, and why “slow media” matters. The discussion highlights mesquite as an underrated desert food, the importance of supporting local restaurants and farmers, and how storytelling strengthens resilient regional food systems.Shannan Perciballi is the publisher and editor of Edible Phoenix, a quarterly magazine celebrating Arizona’s local food culture. A longtime Phoenix resident, she brings decades of experience in restaurants, wine, and hospitality to her work. Perciballi holds an English degree from Arizona State University and advanced wine certifications, and is deeply involved in supporting farmers, artisans, and regional food systems through storytelling, community partnerships, and advocacy for resilient local economies.Episode HighlightsShannon’s leap from restaurant executive to magazine publisher“We are never going to scoop a story—we are the slow story.”Mesquite flour and its sweet, caramel-like flavor in sourdough breadThe power of seed swaps to spark food-growing conversationsHow summer restaurant slowdowns ripple through the local farm economyThe tactile experience of holding a seasonal, intentionally crafted magazineKey TopicsEdible PhoenixShannon PercevalPamela HamiltonSlow media and quarterly publishingArizona local food cultureMesquite as a desert superfoodLocal First ArizonaUptown Farmers MarketNorth Phoenix Baptist ChurchDesert Botanical GardenSeed swaps and community eventsSupporting independent restaurants and farmersCulinary education through Careers through Culinary Arts ProgramWhat is Edible Phoenix and why does it exist?Edible Phoenix is a quarterly magazine celebrating Arizona’s local food culture. It tells the “slow stories” of farmers, ranchers, bakers, gardeners, and artisans whose work often goes unnoticed in mainstream media. Its mission is to strengthen community through storytelling and support resilient local economies.How did Shannon Perceval become the publisher?After a 35-year career in Arizona’s restaurant and hospitality industry, Shannon purchased the magazine in 2023 when founder Pamela Hamilton retired. A longtime subscriber, she stepped into ownership to preserve and grow a publication she deeply valued.What makes “slow media” different?Unlike fast-breaking news, Edible Phoenix publishes quarterly and focuses on depth over speed. It explores how food is grown, prepared, and shared—embracing seasonality and intentional storytelling rather than headlines.Why is mesquite important to Arizona’s food system?Mesquite trees produce sweet, protein-rich pods that can be milled into flour. Despite being abundant in the desert, they’re often overlooked. Featuring local foragers and educators helps reintroduce this native, climate-adapted food into the regional diet.Why is supporting local restaurants and farmers critical?Local restaurants often source from local farms, creating a circular food economy. When independent restaurants struggle—especially during summer slowdowns—farmers and ranchers feel the impact. Spending locally keeps money circulating in the community and sustains family-owned businesses.How can consumers discover truly local food businesses?Visit farmers markets and ask vendors where their products are served. Farmers often supply independent restaurants directly. Markets like Uptown Farmers Market are hubs for discovering both producers and chefs committed to local sourcing.What role do community events play?Events like seed swaps, cookbook exchanges, and food festivals foster relationships and food literacy. Celebrations such as Devoured at Desert Botanical Garden and Local First Arizona’s Fall Festival connect eaters directly with growers, chefs, and artisans.ResourcesEdible Phoenix — https://ediblephoenix.ediblecommunities.comSubscribe to the magazine — https://ediblephoenix.ediblecommunities.com/subscribeUptown Farmers Market — https://uptownmarketaz.comLocal First Arizona — https://localfirstaz.comVisit www.UrbanFarm.org/971 for the show notes and links on this episode!Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg, Janis or Ray to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Honoring a soil building heroIn this rebroadcast of Episode 185, Greg honors the late Dr. Elaine Ingham, a global leader in soil biology and founder of Soil Food Web Inc. Dr. Ingham shares her journey from childhood microbiology lessons to groundbreaking research on the soil food web. The episode explores composting, soil biology, succession, and how restoring microbial life can regenerate ecosystems and dramatically increase yields.Our Guest: Dr. Elaine Ingham is the Founder, President and Director of Research for Soil Foodweb Inc., a business that grew out of her Oregon State University research program. Behind her user-friendly approach to soil lies a wealth of knowledge gained from years of research into the organisms which make up the soil food web. Her goal is to translate this knowledge into actions that ensure a healthy food web that promotes plant growth and reduces reliance on inorganic chemicals. Elaine also offers a pioneering vision for sustainable farming, improving our current soils to a healthier state, without damaging any other ecosystem. In her spare time, Elaine publishes scientific papers, writes book chapters and gives talks at symposia around the world.Key TopicsElaine InghamSoil Food Web IncOregon State UniversityEnvironmental Protection AgencyUniversity of GeorgiaColorado State UniversityUnited NationsMonsantoSoil food web (bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, microarthropods)Genetically engineered Klebsiella planticolaBiosafety protocol debateEcological succession and weedsComposting (thermal, vermicomposting, static)Soil microbiome and human health connectionKey Questions AnsweredHow did Dr. Elaine Ingham begin her journey into soil microbiology?Introduced to microscopes at age six by her veterinarian father, she developed early scientific curiosity. After deciding against medical school, she pursued microbiology, earning graduate degrees at Colorado State University and building foundational methodologies for quantifying soil organisms.What is the soil food web, and why does it matter?The soil food web is the complex community of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, nematodes, and microarthropods that cycle nutrients, protect plants, and build soil structure. Without this biology, plants cannot thrive, and chemical dependency increases.What happened in the EPA experiment involving genetically engineered bacteria?Dr. Ingham and her graduate student tested a genetically engineered strain of Klebsiella planticola designed to produce alcohol from crop residues. In controlled soil experiments, the engineered bacteria killed all terrestrial plants by producing toxic alcohol concentrations at root zones.Why was this discovery globally significant?If released, the bacterium could have spread 10–11 miles per year, potentially eliminating terrestrial plant life. Dr. Ingham presented the findings at the United Nations, contributing to the approval of a biosafety protocol governing genetically engineered organisms.Why did Dr. Ingham leave Oregon State University?After presenting research that challenged biotechnology interests, including major corporate funders, her methodology was questioned. She ultimately left and founded Soil Food Web Inc. in 1996 to continue her work independently.How can growers restore soil health?By rebuilding biology through properly made compost containing diverse organic matter and maintaining aerobic conditions. Composting must be managed intentionally—monitoring temperature, oxygen, and ingredient diversity.Why are weeds part of soil succession?Weeds are early successional plants that establish when soil biology is degraded. As microbial diversity increases, ecosystems move toward more productive crops and perennials.What is the connection between soil microbes and human health?Beneficial microbes on plant surfaces originate in healthy soil and contribute to the human gut microbiome. Chemical inputs disrupt this protective biological layer.Episode HighlightsDr. Ingham’s childhood learning microbiology at age six.Transition from marine microbiology to soil systems research.First published documentation (1985) proving soil biology improves yields and suppresses disease.The EPA microcosm experiment: engineered bacteria killed wheat seedlings in seven days.Presentation at the United Nations biosafety meeting in Madrid.Conflict with university funding tied to agricultural biotechnology.Founding Soil Food Web Inc. to bring soil biology to growers.Compost as the gateway to restoring microbial life.ResourcesSoil Food Web — https://www.soilfoodweb.comUrban Farm Podcast — https://www.urbanfarm.org/podcastVisit www.urbanfarm.org/LifeInTheSoil for the show notes on this episode, and access to our full podcast library! Need a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with Greg or choose one of the senior members of our Urban Farm team to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

In This Podcast: Gigi shares how permaculture extends far beyond gardening into communication, community resilience, and social systems change. From EcoVillage living and military service to composting toilets after Hurricane Helene, Gigi explores earth care, people care, and fair share as a lived philosophy. This conversation dives into resource-based economies, repair culture, and the power of collective action. It’s a joyful, grounded exploration of how permaculture shapes both land and relationships..Our Guest: Gigi White was introduced to permaculture and foraging in college at Ithaca, New York in 2007 while studying acting and living at the Eco Village Ithaca. Which launched the rocket ship of figuring out how we can begin to work together in groups to live sustainably. After serving as an officer in the US Air Force with a tour in Iraq, she became a lifelong student of connecting nature to people sustainable. And joyful living through Improvisational music and acting. Key Topics & EntitiesPermaculture principles: Earth Care, People Care, Fair ShareEcoVillage at IthacaUnited States Air Force service and sustainabilityAnimal, Vegetable, Miracle by Barbara KingsolverTransition Towns movementThe Humanure Handbook by Joseph JenkinsHumanure and composting toilet systemsHurricane Helene disaster response in AshevilleTool libraries and repair cafésNonviolent Communication (NVC) in permacultureResource-based vs. capitalistic economiesRocket mass heaters and appropriate technologyGrafting fruit trees and perennial agricultureKey Questions AnsweredWhat is permaculture beyond gardening?Permaculture is a philosophy and design framework rooted in Earth Care, People Care, and Fair Share. It includes communication styles, economic systems, animal husbandry, energy design, and community-building—not just food production.How can communities respond sustainably during disasters?After Hurricane Helene disrupted water systems in Asheville, Gigi organized education sessions and materials for composting toilets. By mobilizing volunteers, sourcing buckets and sawdust, and partnering with a local tool library, she helped residents create safe, low-resource sanitation systems.What is humanure and why does it matter?Humanure is composted human waste managed safely through carbon layering (like sawdust) and proper aeration. When done correctly, it becomes soil after about a year in temperate climates, reducing strain on water systems and rebuilding topsoil.How does permaculture apply to social systems?Permaculture extends into communication (including Nonviolent Communication), collective decision-making, barter systems, repair culture, and resource-sharing networks. It asks, “Why are we doing what we’re doing?” and challenges systems like planned obsolescence.What lessons come from failure in sustainable design?After a rocket mass heater installation led to a house fire, Gigi learned the importance of risk assessment, thorough research, and asking difficult questions—especially in high-stakes projects involving heat and combustion.What drives long-term sustainability work?A deep love of the natural world. For Gigi, the magic of witnessing transformation—like a moth emerging from a chrysalis—fuels her dedication to ecological living and education.Episode HighlightsPermaculture is “a word for everything”—a philosophy of being, thinking, and relating.Living at EcoVillage at Ithaca revealed that sustainability can mean thriving—not surviving.Local food challenges in Alaska sparked deeper community connection and dietary awareness.Barter systems and lending exchanges offer alternatives to money-centered economies.Post-disaster “Poop Fairy” organizing helped Asheville residents regain sanitation independence.Tool libraries and repair cafés push back against planned obsolescence.A rocket mass heater fire became a powerful lesson in risk management and self-trust.Humor, humility, and joy are essential tools in sustainable living.Calls to Action & ResourcesThe Humanure Handbook — The Humanure HandbookIntentional Communities Directory — https://www.ic.orgTransition Movement — Transition TownsShow Notes — https://urbanfarm.org/gigisgardenNeed a little bit of advice or just a feedback on your design for your yard or garden?The Urban Farm Team is offering consults over the phone or zoom. Get the benefits of a personalized garden and yard space analysis without the cost of trip charges. You can chat with us to get permaculture based feedback.Click HERE to learn more!*Disclosure: Some of the links in our podcast show notes and blog posts are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, we will earn a nominal commission at no cost to you. We offer links to items recommended by our podcast guests and guest writers as a service to our audience and these items are not selected because of the commission we receive from your purchases. We know the decision is yours, and whether you decide to buy something is completely up to you.