The Good Dirt: Sustainability Explained
Society & Culture
About
Start living more sustainably. The Good Dirt podcast explores all aspects of a sustainable lifestyle with healthy soil as the touchpoint and metaphor for the healing of our relationship with the planet. Mother and daughter team Mary & Emma bring you weekly interviews with farmers, artists, authors, and leaders in the regenerative and sustainable living space.
Episodes
- 237. Composting as a Cultural Shift with Ben Parry of Compost Crew
Ben Parry, CEO of Compost Crew, joins The Good Dirt to discuss how composting is becoming a cultural shift. He shares insights on turning food waste into a resource, the challenges of scaling community-based systems, and the need for house…
- 236. From Mary: Earth First Gardening with Melanie Cotillo of Lazy Dirt Wildflower Farm
Melanie Cotillo of Lazy Dirt Wildflower Farm discusses her "Earth First Gardening" philosophy with Mary, emphasizing native plants, soil health, and plastic-free, peat-free nursery practices. The conversation covers alternatives to convent…
- 235. The Cost of Slow Living: How to Align Your Values Without Burning Out
Emily Hillman joins The Good Dirt to discuss the challenges of slow living, detailing her transition from the fashion industry and the conflict between prioritizing values and the financial realities of a simpler lifestyle. The episode cov…
- Mary & Emma: Rethinking Slow Living
Mary and Emma return to discuss the evolution of Lady Farmer, the changing cultural context of sustainability, and the limited impact of individual actions versus systemic forces. They also touch on finding meaning, creativity, and persona…
- 234. A Conversation with Janna Hockenjos of Earth Friends —and an Announcement!
Janna Hockenjos of the environmental education organization Earth Friends joins The Good Dirt podcast to discuss the impact of their programs for young learners and her suburban food forest project. The hosts also announce the podcast will…
- Encore: Creating a Backyard Microfarm with Leah Webb, Author of "The 7 Step Homestead"
This episode was originally published on August 18th, 2023 In this episode we're talking to Leah Webb, author of The Seven Step Homestead about how to turn any yard into a primary food source with vegetables, fruits, chickens, pollinator p…
- 233. Embracing Our Medicine: A Conversation with Two Spirit Sister Madison Murphy Barney
In this episode, Madison Murphy Barney, a two-Spirit Hoopa and Shoshone sister, author, doula, and public health storyteller, discusses the significance of the two-Spirit identity, historical roles, and the importance of maintaining cultur…
- Our Fermented Lives: Bridging the Gap Between Modern People and Historic Food with Julia Skinner of Root Kitchens
This is an ENCORE EPISODE, originally published on August 5, 2022 In this episode, Mary and Emma are talking to Julia Skinner of Root: Historic Food for the Modern World. Root was born from Julia's deep love for community and a belief in t…
- 232. The Year of the Dress: Growing and Crafting Linen from Scratch with Eve Schaub
In this episode, Mary is talking with Eve Schaub, an internationally published author and humorist. Known for her year-long experiments, such as 'Year of No Sugar' and 'Year of No Clutter,' Eve’s latest endeavor is 'The Year of the Dress,'…
- Seeking Real Solutions to Plastic Pollution with Smruti Aravind of The Story of Stuff
This is an ENCORE EPISODE, originally published on July 7, 2023 In this episode, Emma and Mary sit down to talk to Smruti Aravind, who oversees fundraising, donor communications, and grants at the Story of Stuff Project. Smruti brings over…
- 231. Exploring Ancestral Diets: A Conversation with Dr. Bill Schindler, Author of Eat Like a Human
In this episode, Dr. Bill Schindler discusses the impact of modern diets on health and the importance of ancestral dietary practices. He shares the journey of the Modern Stone Age Kitchen, a restaurant dedicated to using ancestral approach…
- Trash Talk: The Truth About Compostables with Lauren Olson of WorldCentric
This is an ENCORE EPISODE, originally published on July 9, 2021 In this week’s episode, Mary and Emma dive deep into the world of plastic consumption and waste management with Lauren Olson, a Zero Waste Manager at World Centric, exploring…
- 230. Embracing the Seasonal Cycles of Life & Women's Wisdom with Corinna Wood
In this episode, Corinna Wood, a visionary teacher of women's wisdom, discusses her thirty year career with herbalism, teaching, and community building--all while embracing an earth-based, woman-centered approach to women's inner growth an…
- ENCORE: Seeking the Wisdom of the Earth with Maria Rodale, Author of Love, Nature, Magic: Shamanic Journeys into the Heart of My Garden
This episode was originally published on June 23, 2023 Meet Maria Rodale, an author and advocate for organic regenerative farming. An explorer in search of the mysteries of the universe, Maria is the author of "Love Nature Magic: Shamanic…
- Juneteenth: A History and Reflection on Emancipation with Tony Cohen (ENCORE)
This bonus episode originally aired on June 19th, 2021 We have a special bonus episode for you this week in celebration of our newest national holiday-- Juneteenth! Mary and Emma reunite with author, historian and farmer Tony Cohen for an…
- Encore: Curiosity, Creativity and Community with Eva Kosmas Flores
This episode was originally published on June 25th, 2021 This week, Mary and Emma have a wonderful conversation with photographer, chef, cookbook author, educator and entrepreneur turned homesteader, Eva Kosmas Flores. Eva shares her journ…
- 229. Discovering the Spiritual Wisdom of Trees with Leah Rampy and Beth Norcross
In this episode of The Good Dirt Podcast, we delve into the profound connections between spirituality, ecology, and our natural world with Leah Rampy and Beth Norcross, co-authors of 'Discovering the Spiritual Wisdom of Trees.' The discuss…
- Encore: Seeking Sustainability in Life, Work and Flowers with Bex Partridge of Botanical Tales
This episode was originally published on June 2, 2022 Despite her life being as busy as ever, Bex Partridge tells us about the ways it feels full of better, more fulfilling things since she made the shift from a corporate job to working as…
- 228. Adventures of a Bad Naturalist with Paula Whyman
This episode delves into the journey of Paula Whyman, author of Bad Naturalist: One Woman's Ecological Education on a Wild Virginia Mountaintop . Paula discusses her transformation from a nature enthusiast to a dedicated ecological restore…
- Encore: Attainable Sustainability the 80/20 Way with Stephanie Miller
This episode was originally published on May 6, 2022 Learn about individual actions you can take to mitigate climate change and make sustainability attainable for everyone, with Stephanie Miller, author of Zero Waste Living the 80/20 Way a…
- 227. Exploring Nature Based Land Care with Edwina von Gal
This episode delves into the evolving art of ecological gardening and landscaping with Edwina von Gal, founder of the Perfect Earth Project. Edwina shares her journey from traditional landscape design to championing nature-based solutions,…
- Encore: The Slow Living Shift- From Striving to Savoring with Fiber Farmer Lisa Mitchell
This episode was originally aired on May 13th, 2022. Visit A Fiber Life for shop and updates! Fiber farmer Lisa Mitchell encourages listeners to embrace a beginner’s mindset and connect to the earth through handwork and making as she tells…
- 226 Fashion Revolution Week: A Conversation with Congresswoman Chellie Pingree
In this episode of The Good Dirt Podcast, Mary & Emma discuss Fashion Revolution Week and its significance, referencing the Rana Plaza disaster as a catalyst for the movement. The episode features Congresswoman Chellie Pingree, who dis…
- Encore: The Role of Activism in the Fashion Revolution with Elizabeth Cline
This episode was originally published on April 23, 2021 For updates on Elizabeth Cline's advocacy and policy work since this episode was recorded, go to her website at www.elizabethclinebooks.com Our guest this week is Elizabeth Cline, a N…
- 225. Redefining Rich with Shannon Hayes: Embracing Slow Living and Life-Serving Economies
What if the life you're already living is richer than you think? Shannon Hayes has spent decades asking — and answering — that question. A farmer, author, chef, and mother running three-generation Sap Bush Hollow Farm in the northern Catsk…
- Encore: Agroecology, Apples and Sustainable Systems with Horticultural Historian Eliza Greenman
This episode was originally aired March 25, 2022 Join this "fruitful" and enlightening conversation with tree crops specialist, horticultural historian and agroforestry practitioner Eliza Greenman as she explains the evolution of the apple…
- 224. Decluttering that Works For You with Dana White of "A Slob Comes Clean"
In this episode of The Good Dirt Podcast, Mary & Emma discuss the common struggles of clutter and its impact on daily life with special guest Dana K. White, author of 'Decluttering at the Speed of Life.' Dana shares her unique five-ste…
- Encore: Paul Hawken on Carbon, Climate and Connection
This episode was originally aired April 26, 2024 In this conversation with best selling author and activist Paul Hawken, we discuss the reframing of our relationship with nature by moving away from the concept of "othering" ourselves, and…
- 223. Rethinking Carbon: An Enlightening Conversation with Paul Hawken
In this episode of the Good Dirt Podcast, hosts Emma and Mary return from winter break with a special interview featuring repeat guest Paul Hawken, the acclaimed environmentalist, author, and activist. They discuss Hawken's new book, 'Carb…
- 131. Rewilding Our Way Home to Ourselves with Hillarie Maddox of Black Girl Country Living
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on March 3rd, 2023 This week we are talking to writer, creator and self proclaimed life-long learner, Hillarie Maddox…
- An Ecological Civilization for All with Andrew Schwartz of EcoCiv
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 07/22/22. What does it mean for humans to live sustainably on the earth? Andrew Schwartz, Co-Founder and Executive…
- 145. Reclaiming Our Food from Field to Kitchen with CSA Farmer Mo Moutoux of Moutoux Orchard
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired in June, 2023 Emma and Mary are back from Emma's wedding, and they are spreading the joy with The Good Dirt. This epi…
- "Lawns into Meadows" with Author Owen Wormser on Regenerative Landscaping
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 7/21/23. Did you know that in this country, we have an area totaling the size of Washington State that is mowed la…
- 130. It Starts in the Kitchen: Sustainable Living with Anne-Marie Bonneau of Zero Waste Chef
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return in the spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 2/24/23. Our guest today is someone who began her plastic-free journey in her kitchen, and has now become the re…
- The History and Folklore of Brigid: Saint, Legend and Lady Farmer with Kathy Spaar | Episode 27 Reprise
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return in the spring. Please enjoy this episode that was last aired on 1/31/2023 Today's episode is about Brigid, saint and legend, known for her skills at the hearth, the loom, midwifery,…
- Healing Ourselves, Healing the Earth with Asia Suler, Author of "Mirrors in the Earth"
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 10/20/23. How can we reconnect ourselves to nature, to the plants and animals around us, and the very Earth we wal…
- Being Old-Fashioned on Purpose with Jill Winger
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 11/10/2023. Our guest for today is Jill Winger, creator of The Prairie Homestead who over the last 10 years has in…
- Stories From Life Off the Grid with Poet Baron Wormser
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 11/17/23. Our guest today is Baron Wormser, award winning poet, professor and author of "The Road Washes Out in Sp…
- Ancestral Food Ways in Family Life and Business with Christina Schindler of Modern Stone Age Kitchen
Mary & Emma are on a brief hiatus and plan to return next spring. Please enjoy this episode that was originally aired on 12/8/2023. We’re talking to Christina Schindler, who after spending 20 years in public education as a teacher and…
- 222. Intro to Slow Living | Part 4 | Reflecting on Slow Living: A Year-End Retrospective
In this episode, Mary & Emma conclude their 'Intro to Slow Living' series by reflecting on the evolution of the slow living concept in their experience over the past eight years. They discuss the importance of intentionality, how slow…
- Gathering Light: Winter Solstice Reflections & Holiday Harmonies
In this special episode, we're bringing back two cherished holiday-themed recordings from our archives. Whether it’s the miracle of light, the birth of a Holy Child, or the warmth of family traditions, December celebrations connect us to a…
- 221. Seeds of Connection: The People Behind Pinetree Garden Seeds
In today’s episode, we’re talking to Melissa and Jaci from Pinetree Garden Seeds, a family owned and operated business since 1979. Pinetree Garden Seeds was founded with the simple mission of offering low prices on quality seeds to the hom…
- 220. Restoring the Land Through Regenerative Farming with Florence Reed of Sustainable Harvest International
In this episode of The Good Dirt Podcast, hosts Mary Kingsley and her daughter Emma talk with Florence Reed, founder of Sustainable Harvest International, a nonprofit that has worked with smallholder farmers in Central America for over 27…
- Slow Friday Reprise: A Slow Living Perspective on the Holidays with Mary and Emma
In celebration of the holiday this week, and upcoming "Black Friday", we're re-airing our favorite slow-living take on the matter...Slow Friday! RE-AIR FROM 11/26/21 You're in for something a little different this Friday...it's a solo show…
- 219. Embracing Slow Style: Creating Beauty in Your Home with Zandra Zuraw
In this episode, Zandra Zuraw, founder of Slow Style Home, shares her insights on interior design. Slow Style Home is an interior design coaching platform for people looking to create a beautiful, meaningful home without breaking the bank,…
- 218. Mulch Matters: Fostering Community and Connection with Tree Recycling
In this conversation, Casey and Brooke Oberg from Detroit Mulch Company share their journey of transforming tree waste into mulch in the urban landscape of Detroit. They discuss their backgrounds, how they came to the project, various type…
- 217. Sustainability in Spirits with Harrison Holditch of Half Shell Vodka
In this episode of The Good Dirt, Mary & Emma explore sustainability in the spirits industry with Harrison Holditch of Half Shell Vodka. At just 33 years old, Harrison has pioneered innovative sustainable practices in producing vodka,…
- 216. A Sustainable Death: Rethinking End Of Life Practices with Hunter Beattie of Endswell Cremation
What are more sustainable death practices that we can can consider as alternatives to the expensive and consumptive services offered in the modern funeral industry? CEO of Endswell Cremation Hunter Beattie is our guest today, here to discu…
- Mary and Emma Talk About Halloween: Less Waste, More Fun! (Reprise)
Join Mary and Emma as they discuss a slow living Halloween, the second largest consumer season in the US. From the ancient traditions of the Celtic Samhain celebrations, to the modern day spook fest that dominates this time of year, you'll…
- 215. Exploring Holistic Homesteading: A Conversation with Krista and Fia Arias of Tierra Soul
In this episode, Mary welcomes back Krista Arias and her daughter, Fia, from Tierra Soul, a homestead and learning space in Magdalena, New Mexico. They catch up on their conversation from a year ago, discussing ongoing and new projects at…