Regenerative by Design

Joni Kindwall-Moore
  • 5.0 (14)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Regenerative by Design

Regenerative by Design Podcast where we get to the root of health, climate, economics and food.  Host, Joni Kindwall-Moore, is an RN, an Ethnobotanist and the founder of Snacktivist Foods. Join us on this journey as we explore the ideas, stories and personalities behind the regenerative food system movement including climate change, human health, economics and food as well as other deeply interconnected topics.  In this podcast, we will be “going there” and leaning into topics that might make you squirm… just a little.  We want to challenge ourselves to think outside of the box and to discover the deeper side of our world’s problems so that we can better understand how to solve them.  We aim to unpack some of the most dynamic issues of our day with some of the most inspiring minds who are pushing the boundaries of our current norms and thinking paradigms.  We have seen incredibly disruptive events in the past few years like pandemics, climate events, disasters and war. These often trigger system changes that are reactionary and have short term gains. When these are practiced over the long term, they often have a degenerative effect on health and the environment. Regenerative design thinking is the opposite, and is an intentional, premeditated process that involves a high level of observation, analysis, creativity, and looking beyond reductionistic principles while embracing systems thinking and additionality to create regenerative solutions. Regenerative agriculture has become a powerful force for positive transformation and hope in todays world. And no discussion about agriculture is complete without a conversation about food.  Food is the connection between people and the planet so grab a cup of coffee or your favorite running shoes and get ready to take a mental and philosophical leap into the future of food and our planet. 

  1. 3D AGO

    Innovating Regenerative Systems: The Journey of Dryland Distilling

    Guest: Nels Wroe, Founder of Dryland Distilling Overview: In this episode, Joni Kindwall-Moore sits down with Nels Wroe of Dryland Distilling to discuss his unique journey from starting a craft distilling business to pioneering innovative, regenerative agricultural practices in the production of spirits. Wroe shares insights into the challenges and rewards of creating a localized, regenerative supply chain that supports the environment and community. Key Points Discussed: Origins and Philosophy: Nels Wroe details his path from a small magazine project on craft distillers to founding Dryland Distilling, driven by a desire to create spirits that truly represent the American West using locally sourced, regenerative ingredients.Challenges of Local Sourcing: Wroe discusses the difficulties faced by craft distillers in sourcing local ingredients and how Dryland Distilling navigates these challenges to produce authentic, high-quality spirits.Impact on Local Food Systems: The conversation highlights the importance of spirits and beer in the local food system, focusing on how Dryland Distilling's efforts contribute to a sustainable model that uses regenerative farming practices.Innovations in Regenerative Agriculture: Wroe elaborates on the strategies employed by Dryland Distilling to foster regenerative agricultural practices among local grain producers, emphasizing the environmental and economic benefits of these methods.The Future of Craft Distilling: Nels Wroe shares his vision for the future, which involves expanding the reach of regenerative practices beyond local boundaries and creating an educational platform for consumers and other producers in the craft distilling industry.Call to Action: Visit Dryland Distilling's website (drylanddistillers.com) to learn more about their unique spirits and the story behind each bottle.Engage with the distillery on social media to follow their journey and support regenerative practices in the spirits industry.Closing Thought: This episode serves as a profound reminder of the potential impact small businesses can have on both local economies and environmental sustainability. Nels Wroe's dedication to regenerative practices offers a blueprint for others in the industry, proving that ethical considerations and business success can go hand in hand. Regenerative by Design is hosted by Snacktivist. Snacktivist is a food innovation company transforming nutrition with climate-smart crops, regenerative, and data-connected supply chains. We specialize in novel product development, sustainable ingredient sourcing—from “genetics to plate”—and strategic value chain design to build a healthier, more resilient food system. Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more.

    54 min

  2. MAR 20

    Regenerative Pork Power: How Pasture-Raised Pigs Transform Land, Health, and Communities — with Gregg Deponte

    Summary: In this insightful episode of the Regenerative By Design Podcast, host Joni Kindwall-Moore sits down with regenerative farmer and rancher Gregg Deponte for an enlightening conversation about pasture-raised pork and its unexpected benefits for environmental health and community economies. Gregg, who transitioned from his tropical horticulture roots in Hawaii to regenerative farming in Colville, Washington, shares his unique journey. He explains how pigs, traditionally considered nature's bulldozers, can actually serve as powerful tools for rehabilitating land, managing invasive species, and improving soil health. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of regenerative pork production, the intricacies of feed quality, and the need for more accessible processing infrastructure to support smaller farms. The discussion also touches on broader issues, including the health benefits of pasture-raised pork, especially concerning inflammatory diseases, and the difficulties faced by small-scale farmers in accessing markets due to industry consolidation. Gregg proposes innovative solutions, like community-supported cooperative models and diversified product lines that cater to both high-end and economically accessible markets. This conversation offers fresh perspectives on sustainable agriculture, the complex dynamics of local food systems, and practical steps toward creating healthier food options while addressing critical ecological issues. Website:  www.olaainafarms.com  Key Takeaways Here are the key takeaways from Joni Kindwall-Moore’s interview with Gregg Deponte on the Regenerative by Design Podcast: 1. Pigs as Ecological Tools: Gregg highlights pigs' surprising ability to manage invasive weeds, rehabilitate damaged land, and create healthier forest understories, particularly useful in wildfire-prone regions. 2. Economic Challenges of Regenerative Farming: Gregg shares the difficulties faced by small farmers in accessing processing facilities and markets due to industry monopolization, limiting their economic viability and growth opportunities. 3. Health Benefits of Pasture-Raised Pork: Pasture-raised pork fed with locally-grown, chemical-free grains significantly reduces harmful omega-6 fatty acid ratios, providing healthier meat options compared to conventionally farmed pork. 4. Cultural & Culinary Influence: Gregg’s Hawaiian heritage and Asian culinary traditions influence his approach to regenerative farming, demonstrating how cultural roots can shape sustainable agricultural practices. 5. Community Solutions and Food Accessibility: Gregg emphasizes the importance of community-driven solutions, such as cooperative processing facilities and shared resources, to democratize access to high-quality regenerative products, bridging the gap between premium and affordable options. 6. Addressing Processing Infrastructure Gaps: The podcast addresses significant hurdles small-scale farmers face in accessing affordable meat processing, emphasizing the need for cooperative, community-based solutions to democratize food markets. 7. Resiliency Through Community: Joni and Gregg underline the community's critical role in overcoming financial and logistical obstacles in regenerative agriculture, particularly in times of economic turbulence and funding cuts. 8. Environmental Context and Regional Specificity: They emphasize the necessity of matching agricultural practices with regional climatic conditions, stressing the importance of context when selecting crops and livestock strategies for maximum ecological and economic benefit. Regenerative by Design is hosted by Snacktivist. Snacktivist is a food innovation company transforming nutrition with climate-smart crops, regenerative, and data-connected supply chains. We specialize in novel product development, sustainable ingredient sourcing—from "genetics to plate"—and strategic value chain design to build a healthier, more resilient food system. Visitsnacktivistfoods.com to learn more.

    53 min

  3. FEB 14

    Transforming Health through Food: Alison Patt's Journey and Innovations

    Summary: In this enlightening episode of Regenerative by Design, host Joni Kindwall-Moore talks with Alison Patt, who spearheads transformative initiatives in institutional food service. Alison shares her personal journey and professional experiences that led her to advocate for high-quality, real food. She discusses her son's health challenges, which were significantly ameliorated through dietary changes, sparking her passion for improving food quality. This episode delves into how her personal insights have been integrated into her work, transforming food service practices in hospitals and other institutions to promote health and well-being through nutrition. Show Notes: Host: Joni Kindwall-Moore Guest: Alison Patt, a leader in institutional food service reform Topics Covered: Alison's background in luxury hospitality and her evolution into a food quality evangelist.The personal health challenges her son faced and how dietary changes dramatically improved his condition.The impact of real food on health and how Alison's professional life reflects her personal discoveries.Thomas Cuisine's mission to revolutionize institutional food services by focusing on quality, real ingredients, and sustainable practices.The introduction of high-quality beef supply chains and other initiatives to improve food standards in hospitals and beyond.Key Takeaways: The profound impact of diet on health, particularly in managing conditions like autism through reduced processed food intake.Institutional roles in promoting health through better food quality can lead to systemic changes in health care and food service industries.Success stories and challenges in shifting institutional food practices towards health-promoting models.Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-patt-878a759/ Thomas Cuisine: https://thomascuisine.com/ Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to think about the source and quality of the food they consume and advocate for better food practices in their local institutions. Closing Thought: The episode underscores the potential of regenerative practices not just in agriculture but in everyday health and community well-being, highlighting food's pivotal role in shaping a healthier future. Regenerative by design is hosted by Snacktivist.  Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories.   Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more.

    53 min

  4. FEB 7

    Investing in Regenerative Agriculture: A Conversation with Agriculture Capital

    Summary In this episode of Regenerative by Design, host Joni Kindwall-Moore is joined by Ben Vitale and Wood Turner from Agriculture Capital to discuss their approach to regenerative agriculture and how they are reshaping investment in the agricultural sector. They explore Agriculture Capital’s mission to integrate sustainability with financial investments, their focus on crops like blueberries and citrus, and their commitment to soil health and carbon sequestration. The conversation delves into the complexities of carbon markets, the role of soil carbon as an asset class, and how farmers can leverage diversified revenue streams to build long-term resilience. Ben and Wood also share insights on the challenges and opportunities in transitioning to regenerative practices, the importance of data-driven measurement in carbon sequestration, and how the agricultural sector can contribute to climate solutions. Show Notes Host:  Joni Kindwall-Moore Guests: Ben Vitale – Expert in carbon markets and financial structures for regenerative agricultureWood Turner – Head of regenerative management at Agriculture CapitalTopics Covered: The origin and mission of Agriculture CapitalThe role of capital investment in regenerative agricultureAgriculture Capital’s focus on blueberries, citrus, and hazelnutsChallenges and opportunities in the transition to regenerative farmingCarbon markets and their impact on agricultureThe importance of soil carbon as a financial assetThe need for diversified revenue streams for farmersThe evolving methodologies for measuring and verifying soil carbonHow regenerative agriculture offers long-term resilience for farmersThe impact of financial tools on farmers' ability to scale and transitionThe importance of storytelling and knowledge-sharing in regenerative farmingKey Takeaways: Agriculture Capital invests in regenerative agriculture by purchasing farmland, integrating sustainability practices, and leveraging financial tools to support farmers.Regenerative agriculture is not just about carbon sequestration—it includes biodiversity, soil health, and long-term financial sustainability.The carbon market is diverse, with various types of credits ranging from $6 to $100+ per ton, depending on methodology and verification.Farmers can benefit from alternative revenue streams beyond crop sales, including carbon credits and biodiversity incentives.Measurement and verification of soil carbon are crucial to ensuring the credibility of carbon credits and maximizing financial return.Regenerative transitions can offer farmers long-term profitability and risk reduction, even in challenging climates.Call to Action: If you’re a farmer looking to transition to regenerative practices, Agriculture Capital may be able to support your journey.Connect with Ben Vitale and Wood Turner on LinkedIn to learn more about Agriculture Capital’s work.Share this episode with your network to spread awareness about regenerative agriculture and its financial opportunities.Closing Thought: Regenerative agriculture is more than just a farming method—it’s a long-term investment in soil, communities, and the future of food. By integrating financial tools with sustainability practices, we can create a more resilient and profitable agricultural system for generations to come. Regenerative by design is hosted by Snacktivist.  Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories.   Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more.

    54 min

  5. JAN 31

    Seeds of Change: Gary Wietgrefe on Proso Millet and Revolutionizing Regenerative Agriculture

    This episode of "Regenerative by Design" features an enlightening conversation with Gary Wietgrefe, co-founder of the North American Millets Alliance. Gary and host Joni delve deep into the subject of using Proso Millet in foods, discussing its implications for regenerative agriculture and the importance of crop diversity. Show Notes: Guest: Gary Wietgrefe, Co-founder of North American Millets Alliance Topics Covered: Overview of a recent panel discussion on Proso Millet and its use in foods.Gary’s extensive background in agriculture and his specialization in millet cultivation.The importance of crop rotation in spreading labor, preserving soil health, and preventing erosion.Economic and environmental benefits of diverse cropping systems.Challenges in market adoption for diverse crops due to lack of institutional support.The necessity for creating industry standards to make lesser-known crops like millet more marketable and reliable.Key Takeaways: Diverse crops contribute significantly to regenerative agriculture by improving soil health and reducing the need for synthetic inputs.Market adoption challenges for crops like millet stem from a lack of institutional support, not from their agricultural viability.Establishing industry standards is crucial for the recognition and reliability of lesser-known crops, facilitating their entry into mainstream markets.Call to Action: Listeners are encouraged to explore more about Proso Millet and other diverse crops. Check out the resources linked in the episode notes for more information on how you can support and promote agricultural diversity.Share this episode on social media to help spread the word about the benefits of crop diversity and regenerative agriculture practices.Closing Thought: Embracing diversity in agriculture not only supports the environment but also enhances food security. As we learn more and adapt, we pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural future. Additional Resources: Link to North American Millets AllianceGary Wietgrefe’s Publications on MilletRegenerative by design is hosted by Snacktivist.  Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories.   Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more. Funding for Regenerative By Design Podcast was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.

    53 min

  6. 12/27/2024

    Redefining the Rules of Engagement in Regenerative Farming

    Summary: In this episode of Regenerative by Design, host Joni Kindwall-Moore welcomes Anna Jones-Crabtree, Jessica Roberts, and Colleen Kavanagh to discuss the transformative potential of regenerative organic farming in Montana’s Northern Great Plains. The conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities of building sustainable food systems prioritizing environmental stewardship, economic resilience, and community health. Show Notes: Guests: Anna Jones-Crabtree, Jessica Roberts, Colleen Kavanagh Anna Jones-Crabtree Anna Jones-Crabtree is a first-generation organic farmer and co-owner of Vilicus Farms, a 12,500-acre dryland crop farm in Northern Montana. She and her husband, Doug, have cultivated a diverse array of heirloom grains, pulses, oilseeds, and broadleaf crops using innovative five and seven-year rotations, integrated grazing, and extensive conservation practices. Vilicus Farms, which devotes over 26% of its land to non-crop conservation and pollinator habitats, is Bee Better and Real Organic Project Certified, with plans for Regenerative Organic and Biodynamic certifications. Anna is also the Executive Director of the Vilicus Institute, a learning hub supporting sustainable farming systems in the Northern Great Plains. With a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering and a focus on sustainable systems, Anna has served in leadership roles for the Xerces Society, USDA Advisory Council, and Iroquois Valley Farmland REIT. In addition to her farming and advocacy work, Anna is the Regional Director of Data, Information, and Geospatial Resources for the US Forest Service. Link:https://www.vilicusinstitute.org/ Jessica Roberts With over 20 years of hands-on farming experience, Jessica Roberts has dedicated her career to cultivating crops, developing value-added products, and driving systemic change in the food industry. She honed her expertise through roles at Wegmans grocery stores and their Organic Farm & Orchard, where she focused on research and development to strengthen regional food systems. As Associate Director of Certification for the Real Organic Project, Jessica led programs supporting over 1,100 farmer members, conducting more than 200 farm inspections to advance organic farming practices. Guided by principles of reciprocity and a belief in humanity’s role as co-creators of resilient ecosystems, Jessica strives to build a food system that honors and rewards farmers for their essential contributions to their communities and the environment. Link:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-roberts-803034191/ Topics Covered: The role of Villicus Farms and Villicus Institute in fostering regenerative organic practices.Barriers and innovations in crop diversity, soil health, and ecosystem services.Economic challenges of first-generation farming and market access for diverse crops.The need for a collaborative "supply circle" model to de-risk regenerative practices.The impact of local sourcing and shorter supply chains on community resilience and carbon emissions.Key Takeaways: Regenerative organic farming systems require fundamental shifts in market and policy support.Farmers often bear the greatest risk in a supply chain that needs collective risk-sharing strategies.Collaborative initiatives, like those from Villicus Institute, aim to transform how farmers are supported economically.Shortening supply chains and prioritizing US-grown products can significantly reduce CO2 emissions and strengthen local economies.Call to Action: Explore the work of Villicus Farms and the Villicus Institute through the links provided in the show notes. Share this episode to spread awareness of the importance of regenerative farming. Rate the podcast and connect with the team for more updates on their groundbreaking projects. Closing Thought: "Redesigning our food systems isn't just about farming differently; it's about showing up for one another in ways that build a more resilient and equitable future." The Regenerative by Design is hosted by Snacktivist. Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories. Visitsnacktivistfoods.com to learn more. Funding for the Regenerative By Design Podcast was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.

    42 min

  7. 12/20/2024

    Breaking Ground with Regenerative Farming: A Conversation with Aaron Viebrock

    In this episode, host Joni Kindwall-Moore welcomes Aaron Viebrock, a leading regenerative farmer from Central Washington. Aaron shares insights into his journey of transitioning from conventional to regenerative farming practices on his 1,500-acre farm. The discussion explores topics like no-till farming, continuous cropping, reducing chemical usage, and improving soil health through biological methods. Aaron highlights the challenges of farming in an arid climate with low rainfall, innovative approaches to weed management, and the potential of crop diversity to enhance sustainability. The episode emphasizes the importance of farmer education, market development for diverse crops, and aligning policy to support regenerative agriculture. Show Notes Episode Title: Breaking Ground with Regenerative Farming: A Conversation with Aaron Viebrock Host: Joni Kindwall-Moore Guest: Aaron Viebrock Topics Covered: Aaron’s transition to regenerative farming and his collaboration with local groups like the Spokane Conservation District and FarmSmart.Challenges of farming in a low-rainfall region and innovative practices like no-till farming.The benefits of continuous cropping and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers and herbicides.Exploring crop diversity with companion planting and cover crops to improve soil health and control weeds naturally.Insights into soil health, rhizophagy, and the role of biology in creating nutrient-dense crops.The importance of developing markets for alternative crops like sorghum and millet to support regenerative farming.Policy and insurance challenges for farmers adopting regenerative practices.Key Takeaways: Regenerative agriculture can reduce chemical dependence, improve soil health, and increase farm sustainability.Collaboration and knowledge sharing among farmers are vital for innovation and success.Consumer demand and market development are critical for supporting diverse, nutrient-dense crops.Policies must evolve to better support farmers transitioning to regenerative systems.Call to Action: Follow Aaron on Facebook under "O & V Brock" or contact Joni to connect with him directly.Share this episode with your community and leave a review on Apple Podcasts to support the podcast’s mission.Closing Thought: Together, we can make regenerative agriculture the norm, ensuring a healthier planet and better food for future generations. Regenerative by design is hosted by Snacktivist.  Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories.   Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more. Funding for Regenerative By Design Podcast was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.

    40 min

  8. 12/13/2024

    Farming for the Future: A Conversation with Keith Morter

    Summary: In this episode of the Regenerative By Design podcast, Joni is joined by Keith Morter, a farmer from north-central Oregon, who shares insights about his transition to regenerative farming practices. The discussion explores innovative techniques, market access challenges for diverse crops, and broader implications for sustainable food systems and human health. Show Notes: Host: Joni Kindwall-Moore Guest: Keith Morter, regenerative farmer and President of the Pacific Northwest Direct Seed Association (www.directseed.org) Topics Covered: Overview of Keith's 4,000-acre farm in Oregon and his family's agricultural history.Transition from conventional to regenerative agriculture, including direct seeding and reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers.Challenges of balancing innovation with economic realities in farming.Importance of building resilient food systems and reducing the environmental footprint.Market barriers for regenerative products, better infrastructure, and consumer awareness.How healthier soil contributes to better crop quality and human health.The role of design thinking in addressing agricultural and environmental challenges.Key Takeaways: Regenerative agriculture requires both scientific understanding and intuitive knowledge of the land.Transitioning to regenerative farming has long-term benefits but demands patience and learning.Market development and consumer education are critical to making regenerative practices viable at scale.Innovation in farming can improve crop quality and help address global challenges like climate change and food insecurity.Collaboration among farmers, policymakers, and consumers is essential for systemic change.Call to Action:Explore the resources and connect with Regenerative By Design to learn more about sustainable farming practices. Share this episode with anyone interested in agriculture, sustainability, and the future of food. Closing Thought:Regenerative agriculture isn't just about farming differently—it's about rethinking our relationship with the land, food, and each other to create a healthier, more sustainable world. Regenerative by Design is hosted by Snacktivist Inc. Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories. Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more. Funding for the Regenerative By Design Podcast was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA.

    1h 15m
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    Ratings & Reviews

    5
    out of 5
    14 Ratings

    About

    Regenerative by Design Podcast where we get to the root of health, climate, economics and food.  Host, Joni Kindwall-Moore, is an RN, an Ethnobotanist and the founder of Snacktivist Foods. Join us on this journey as we explore the ideas, stories and personalities behind the regenerative food system movement including climate change, human health, economics and food as well as other deeply interconnected topics.  In this podcast, we will be “going there” and leaning into topics that might make you squirm… just a little.  We want to challenge ourselves to think outside of the box and to discover the deeper side of our world’s problems so that we can better understand how to solve them.  We aim to unpack some of the most dynamic issues of our day with some of the most inspiring minds who are pushing the boundaries of our current norms and thinking paradigms.  We have seen incredibly disruptive events in the past few years like pandemics, climate events, disasters and war. These often trigger system changes that are reactionary and have short term gains. When these are practiced over the long term, they often have a degenerative effect on health and the environment. Regenerative design thinking is the opposite, and is an intentional, premeditated process that involves a high level of observation, analysis, creativity, and looking beyond reductionistic principles while embracing systems thinking and additionality to create regenerative solutions. Regenerative agriculture has become a powerful force for positive transformation and hope in todays world. And no discussion about agriculture is complete without a conversation about food.  Food is the connection between people and the planet so grab a cup of coffee or your favorite running shoes and get ready to take a mental and philosophical leap into the future of food and our planet. 

    Information

    • Creator
      Joni Kindwall-Moore
    • Years Active
      2022 - 2025
    • Episodes
      54
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © 2025 Joni Kindwall-Moore
    • Show Website
      Regenerative by Design

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