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Food Forest Podcast

With Louis De Jaeger as host

What if you could restore paradise on earth?

You can start in your own backyard! Or you can regenerate your entire municipality, your business or why not your entire country?

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Food Forest designer Louis De Jaeger takes you on a journey to meet the most incredible food foresters from across the globe.

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In every episode you'll learn more about the topic, what you can integrate on your own piece of land and implement the philosophy in your life.

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Food Forest Podcast Episodes

In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger engages with David Holmgren, superstar of permaculture, discussing the evolution of permaculture, its principles, and its impact on sustainable living. They explore the importance of community, consumption, and local solutions in permaculture practices, as well as the relationship between Holmgren and Mollison. Holmgren reflects on 50 years of permaculture, the challenges it faces, and the significance of understanding the landscape and energy descent. The conversation emphasizes the role of failure in learning and the need for adaptability in the future of permaculture.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 1

With guest

David Holmgren

Walking the First Path

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, host Louis De Jaeger interviews Eric Toensmeier, a pioneer in agroforestry and perennial agriculture. They discuss the importance of perennial plants, the potential of edible leaves, and the integration of animals in agroforestry systems. Eric shares insights on carbon farming and the role of trees in sustainable agriculture, emphasizing the need for more trees in our farming practices to combat climate change. The conversation highlights innovative solutions like leaf protein concentrate and the significance of Project Drawdown in addressing climate issues.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 2

With guest

Eric Toensmeier

The Power of Perennials

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Robert Guyton shares his journey of developing a thriving permaculture food forest in New Zealand over 35 years. He discusses the evolution of his garden, the importance of biodiversity, and the role of community engagement in sustainability. Robert emphasizes the significance of storytelling and personal connections to plants, advocating for a philosophy of co-creation with nature. He envisions a future where localized communities thrive, and he encourages listeners to actively participate in their environments through observation and creativity.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 4

With guest

Robert Guyton

Learn from a 35 Years New Zealand Food Forest

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Rebel Black, founder of The Hungry Spirits, discusses her journey in regenerative agriculture, focusing on Syntropic Agroforestry and its potential to transform dryland farming in Australia. She emphasizes the importance of long-term thinking, community healing, and the role of intuition in decision-making. Rebel shares her experiences with climate challenges, plant species suited for arid environments, and the emotional aspects of farming and personal growth. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of healing the land and the soul, and the need for a shift in perspective towards sustainability and resilience.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 3

With guest

Rebel Black

Regeneration in Australia’s Drylands

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Klaus Lotz shares his incredible journey from Germany to New Zealand, highlighting his experiences with Syntropic Agroforestry and the importance of indigenous wisdom in agriculture. He discusses the transformative power of permaculture and the role of education in fostering sustainable farming practices. Klaus also delves into his innovative approaches to mushroom cultivation and the significance of community involvement in regenerative agriculture. Through his insights, he emphasizes the need for a shift towards perennial crops and the potential for Syntropy to revolutionize food production.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 5

With guest

Klaus Lotz

Indigenous Wisdom in Food Forest Farming

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Anastasiya Volkova, a leader in Ukrainian permaculture, about her experiences and efforts during the ongoing war in Ukraine. Anastasiya discusses the challenges of living in a war zone, the mental health impacts on the community, and how permaculture has adapted to support displaced people. She emphasizes the importance of community networks, resilience, and the healing power of nature. The conversation also touches on the future of permaculture in Ukraine, food security, and the personal responsibility of individuals to foster peace.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 6

With guest

Anastasiya Volkova

Food Forest Resilience during Wartime

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger interviews Tony Rinaudo – the man behind the Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) movement. Together, they explore how farmers can become powerful partners in restoring degraded lands, the hidden potential of the “underground forest,” and the life-changing role of community involvement. Tony opens up about his journey from childhood tree-lover to global restoration leader, his early struggles in Niger, and the breakthrough moment that reshaped his approach. The discussion highlights the power of shifting mindsets, the ripple effect of small actions, and the importance of hope, education, and vision in building a sustainable future.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 11

With guest

Tony Rinaudo

How to regreen the desert one food forest at the time

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, Thiago Barbosa shares his journey from Brazil to Australia and his passion for agroforestry and syntropic agriculture. He discusses the importance of core memories in shaping his agricultural practices, the creation of a community farm for people with disabilities, and the significance of understanding different climates in agriculture. Thiago emphasizes the role of support species in agroforestry, the collaboration in nature, and the necessity of human management in creating sustainable food systems. He addresses common fears associated with agroforestry and encourages listeners to grow their own food as a means of achieving food security and sustainability.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 8

With guest

Thiago Barbosa

Food Forest Farming Across Continents

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Kareen Erbe, a permaculture expert from Bozeman, Montana. They discuss the challenges and rewards of homesteading in cold climates, the importance of community in gardening, and the influence of figures like Vandana Shiva on sustainable practices. Kareen shares her journey from human rights work to permaculture, emphasizing the need for local food systems and resilient communities. The conversation highlights the significance of designing food forests, building soil health, and fostering connections through gardening.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 9

With guest

Kareen Erbe

How to plant a cold climate food forest

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Steve Gabriel, co-owner of Wellspring Forest Farm and author of “Farming the Woods”. They discuss the principles of agroforestry, the importance of transforming existing forests into food forests, and the process of cultivating mushrooms and tapping trees for sap. Steve shares his journey into permaculture, the significance of biodiversity, and the long-term vision for sustainable farming practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for community, patience, and a deep connection to nature in the pursuit of regenerative agriculture.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 10

With guest

Steve Gabriel

How do you farm the woods? Eat more fungi!

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with climate psychologist Thomas Doherty about the deep connection between climate change and mental health. They dive into the role of environmental identity, the rise of eco-anxiety, and how communities can provide strength in navigating these emotions. Thomas highlights the importance of personal sustainability, self-care, and building emotional literacy to better face ecological challenges. The conversation emphasizes resilience, the power of hope, and the healing that comes from connecting with like-minded people who share our values and concerns for the planet.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 7

With guest

Thomas Doherty

Healing Through Food Forest Connections

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with herbalist Anne Stobart about the world of herbal medicine, its holistic approach to health, and the importance of growing medicinal plants. They discuss the role of clinical herbalists, the limitations of herbal medicine, and how individuals can empower themselves through knowledge and practice. Anne shares insights on the Medicinal Forest Garden Trust, the diversity of medicinal plants, and the science behind herbal remedies. The conversation emphasizes the need for community engagement and education in herbalism, as well as the challenges faced in the field today.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 12

With guest

Anne Stobart

How to start a medicinal food forest?

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, Jurgen Heytens shares his inspiring journey from Belgium to Congo, where he founded a reforestation project aimed at empowering local communities and combating deforestation. He discusses the challenges he faced, including cultural integration, funding, and the importance of sustainable agriculture. Jurgen emphasizes the need for innovative solutions to deforestation and the role of carbon credits in supporting local economies. He reflects on the impact of his work on the community and shares his vision for a sustainable future.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 13

With guest

Jurgen Heytens

How to start a food forest in Africa?

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In this episode of the Food Forest podcast, Scarlet shares her journey from Switzerland to Mallorca, where she pursued her dream of creating a sustainable food forest. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of urban gardening, the philosophy of permaculture, and the importance of community engagement. Scarlet emphasizes the power of small actions in making a difference and the mental health benefits of connecting with nature. She also shares insights on animal husbandry, water management, and the innovative techniques she employs in her gardening practices.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 14

With guest

Scarlet Allen

How to quit your job and go for your food forest dream

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host and guest Mohammed Erribani discuss the journey from being a chef to a permaculture designer, emphasizing the importance of community, spirituality, and education in regenerative practices. They explore the challenges of water scarcity in Morocco and the impact of restoration projects in India, highlighting the need for long-term solutions and local initiatives. The conversation also touches on the significance of gratitude, resilience, and the role of anger in activism, ultimately calling for a collective effort to create a regenerative future.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 15

With guest

Mohammed Erribani

How to start a dryland food forest?

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger sits down with Astrid Adler, the steward of Ireland’s oldest food forest, which she has been nurturing for over two decades. Astrid recounts her journey from Germany to finding her true home in Ireland, her exploration of syntropic agriculture, and the difficulties of cultivating on bog land. She reflects on the importance of community, the abundance of wild edibles, and weaving sustainability into daily life. The conversation also touches on her artistry and craftsmanship, and how tending the land has been as much about personal growth and healing as it is about growing food. Together, they imagine a future where food forests foster resilience, creativity, and a deeper connection to nature.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 16

With guest

Astrid Adler

How to start a food forest on swamps, bogs or mires

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, John D. Liu shares his remarkable path from journalism to becoming a global voice for ecosystem restoration. He reflects on the urgent need to repair degraded landscapes, the power of media in shaping awareness, and the role of collective intelligence in solving environmental challenges. John highlights the importance of community-driven action and the creation of ecosystem restoration camps as hubs for education, collaboration, and hands-on practice. At the heart of his message is the understanding that ecological function underpins all life and true wealth. He urges listeners to rethink the economy around ecological health and to take meaningful steps toward restoring balance with nature.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 17

With guest

John D. Liu

How to create food forest communities

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, Tara Lynn Hubbard shares her inspiring journey of deepening her connection with nature and championing biodiversity in Florida’s unique ecosystems. She reflects on her work in agritourism, sustainable wildlife management, and the struggles facing the citrus industry, while highlighting the urgent need for rewilding and responsible land stewardship. Tara underscores the vital role nature plays in human well-being and the power of community-driven action in regeneration. This conversation invites listeners to reconnect with the natural world and take meaningful steps toward protecting and restoring it.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 23

With guest

Tara Lynn Hubbard

How to transform your existing orchard into a food forest?

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with permaculture pioneer Maddy Harland about her lifelong journey in ecological design and community resilience. From her childhood experiences in gardening to co-founding Permaculture Magazine, Maddy reflects on three decades of learning, experimentation, and activism within the movement. She shares the challenges of creating her first food forest on poor soils, the mission of the Earth Protectors Trust Fund, and the need to make permaculture accessible to everyone. The conversation highlights the joy of working with nature, the importance of patience, and the power of community-driven projects to shape a more regenerative future.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 19

With guest

Maddy Harland

Lessons from 30 Years of Permaculture Magazine

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Scott Hall, a fifth-generation Australian farmer and leading voice in syntropic agriculture. Scott shares his transition from conventional farming to embracing natural processes, highlighting the principles of plant succession, the power of natural cycles, and the value of disturbance as a regenerative tool. He explains how syntropic practices can be adapted across climates, the importance of keen observation, and the cultural dimensions of teaching and sharing these methods. Their conversation underscores the need for a holistic farming approach that works with, rather than against, nature – while fostering resilience and community connection.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 20

With guest

Scott Hall

How to start a syntropic food forest

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Jerome Osentowski, a pioneer of indoor food forests and innovative permaculture practices. From his beginnings as a ski instructor to becoming a master of high-altitude gardening, Jerome shares the creative techniques – like climate batteries – that made it possible to grow abundant food in challenging conditions. He reflects on the shift toward perennial systems, the power of community collaboration, and the idea of a “perennial economy” built on diverse, regenerative livelihoods. The conversation highlights his vision for a sustainable future and the importance of education, imagination, and community in spreading permaculture principles.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 22

With guest

Jerome Osentowski

Start a subtropical food forest in your greenhouse!

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, Sheila Darmos shares her inspiring path as a regenerative farming pioneer in Greece. After returning to her family’s organic farm, she transformed it into a thriving agroforestry system with over 150 fruit trees and shrubs, fostering biodiversity and resilience. Sheila reflects on the importance of building strong community networks, embracing education, and navigating the challenges of criticism along the way. Through her work at Southern Lights, she seeks to empower individuals to recognize their impact, strengthen local connections, and integrate personal growth with environmental stewardship.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 21

With guest

Sheila Darmos

How to start a bioregional weaving lab

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Alan Carter, a dedicated food forester from Aberdeen, Scotland, who has planted over a million trees. Together, they explore Scotland’s history of deforestation, the cultural and ecological complexities of reintroducing predators, and the untapped potential of agroforestry. Drawing on his book A Food Forest in Your Garden, Alan highlights the value of growing food in small spaces, the diversity of edible plants, and the practicalities of forest gardening in unpredictable climates. The conversation also emphasizes community engagement, creative cooking, and the philosophy of managing sustainable systems.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 24

With guest

Alan Carter

Scotland's Guide to Sustainable Growth

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, water expert Zach Weiss explores the vital connection between water, land, and community. Drawing on his mentorship with Sepp Holzer, Zach reflects on the devastating impact of draining wetlands and the transformative potential of restoring natural water cycles. He emphasizes the importance of designing landscapes that serve both ecological and human needs, while highlighting the role of education, modeling, and community action in creating lasting change. The conversation calls for a collective mindset shift toward respecting and regenerating natural resources, offering a hopeful vision of a future where water scarcity and flooding are minimized through collaboration and care.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 25

With guest

Zach Weiss

How do you create a water plan for your Food Forest?

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with activist Robin Greenfield, who shares his inspiring journey from a conventional, consumer-driven lifestyle to one centered on sustainability and service to the earth. Robin reflects on foraging, living with minimal possessions, and the vital role of self-love and community in effective activism. He explores the interconnectedness of all life and the power of transparency and vulnerability in relationships. The conversation also highlights Robin’s ambitious initiative to plant one million community fruit trees, showing how grassroots efforts can create meaningful environmental and social change.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 18

With guest

Robin Greenfield

How to Ditch Consumerism and Live Sustainably

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Elspeth Hay, public radio host and author of Feed Us With Trees, about humanity’s forgotten relationship with perennial food systems. Elspeth reveals the striking gap between modern diets and the ecosystems we live in, pointing out how heavily we rely on annual crops while overlooking the nourishing potential of trees. Drawing from her research and experiences with Indigenous food cultures in California, Elspeth explores the role of trees as staple food sources – providing calories, fats, and plant-based milks through foods like acorns. The conversation weaves together ecology, history, and storytelling, examining how colonization disrupted our connection to land and keystone species. Together, they question dominant economic narratives and invite listeners to imagine a future rooted in perennial abundance, ecological literacy, and a deeper sense of belonging within local ecosystems.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 26

With guest

Elspeth Hay

How to Rediscover Trees as Staple Food Sources

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In this episode of the Food for Us Podcast, Louis De Jaeger sits down with Andy Dibben, head grower at Abbey Home Farm, to explore what truly community-focused farming looks like in practice. They talk about feeding hundreds of people each week from one farm, weaving trees into vegetable production, and the powerful role of agroforestry in building climate-resilient systems. Andy shares real-world lessons from the field: the wins, the challenges, and why biodiversity and experimentation are non-negotiable for the future of farming. Together, they look ahead to a world where perennial crops, wildlife-friendly fields, and innovative practices form the backbone of a more sustainable food system.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 27

With guest

Andy Dibben

How to grow a profitable farm that feeds your village

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, hosts Laurie and Dan open up about their shared journey of love, healing, and transformation through Freedom Food Forest, their permaculture project in the UK. They trace how a longing to break free from conventional life led them to travel, learn from indigenous cultures, and rethink what “freedom” really means. The conversation dives into their off-grid lifestyle, their goal of becoming largely self-sufficient, and how working with the land has supported their mental health and sense of purpose. At the heart of their story is a deep connection with nature and a desire to share their experiences so others feel empowered to start their own path toward simpler, more sustainable living.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 28

With guest

Laurie & Dan

Can you live from your food forest?

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Alpha Lo, a leading expert in water cycle restoration. They explore the deep connection between trees and rainfall, the importance of restoring the water cycle alongside carbon management, and the power of community-driven ecological projects. Alpha shares lessons from his journey in ecological restoration, highlighting the role of agroforestry and food forests in combating climate change. The conversation also delves into innovative water management strategies for the hospitality sector and underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the looming global water crisis.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 29

With guest

Alpha Lo

How to restore water cycles with food forests

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger talks with RHS-trained gardener and permaculture designer Pippa Chapman. They explore how well-designed permaculture gardens can stay productive even through drought, and trace Pippa’s shift from conventional gardening to a more regenerative, climate-conscious approach. Pippa reflects on the joys and challenges of working on private estates, the process of creating award-winning forest gardens, and how recognition has helped her spread new ideas. Together, they dive into the power of collaboration within the gardening community, the importance of leaving space for play and family life, and how a clear, hopeful vision – plus a willingness to learn from mistakes – can shape the gardens and futures we grow.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 30

With guest

Pippa Chapman

Transform your backyard lawn into a food forest

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In this inspiring episode, permaculture elder Peter Bane opens up about decades of experience building eco-villages and resilient communities across North America. From founding Permaculture Activist to mentoring generations of designers, Peter reflects on the real dynamics behind communal living – money, conflict, governance, and the importance of intergenerational balance. He emphasizes that successful permaculture begins with people and place, not just plants, and highlights how intentional communities can become models for a more harmonious future. His reflections offer grounded hope for humanity’s transition toward ecological and social regeneration.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 31

With guest

Peter Bane

Why most intentional (food forest) communities fail

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, host Louis De Jaeger speaks with Jyde Hamoonga, a policy and communications specialist with World Vision Zambia, about the transformative impact of Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) in Zambia. They explore how integrating farming with nature can restore degraded landscapes, improve soil fertility, and enhance drought resilience. Jyde shares inspiring stories of local champions implementing FMNR, the role of youth in driving innovation, and how embedding FMNR into government policy can scale sustainable agricultural practices. The conversation emphasizes community engagement, research partnerships, and the power of storytelling to foster environmental restoration and sustainable development.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 33

With guest

Jyde Hamoonga

How farmers regenerate Africa with food forests

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In this episode of the Food Forest Podcast, Chris Evans shares how leaving the UK led him to Nepal, where he encountered permaculture and community forestry in their most grounded, human form. He reflects on the limits of conventional forestry and how the Zazarkot Permaculture Program emerged as a living example of how degraded landscapes can be restored into productive agro-ecosystems. Drawing on experiences from around the world, Chris highlights the power of commitment, connection, and learning by example. The conversation weaves together ecology, culture, and ethics, offering a hopeful vision of a future where governance, land stewardship, and human values align to regenerate both communities and ecosystems.

Food Forest Podcast

Episode 34

With guest

Chris Evans

From Fukuoka to Nepal – food forest lessons learned

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