This week, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with my friend
, food system extraordinaire, and author of the popular on Substack. We got to catch up on the next chapter in her fascinating journey since closing the Philadelphia neighborhood butcher shop, Primal Supply. So much has changed in her life, and her insights couldn't be more timely for the the current climate.Our conversation covered crucial ground regarding the challenges facing sustainable agriculture right now. We explored the impacts of the recent federal funding freeze on small farmer support, and how some are facing an existential crisis staring down potential closure of their operations. She also offered a surprising silver lining: while grocery store prices soar, those at farmer's markets have remained relatively stable, potentially making local food more competitive than ever.
Want practical advice for stretching your food dollar? Listen in as Heather shares her passion for beans (yes, beans!), her strategies for cooking in bulk and repurposing meals, and why a chest freezer might be your best kitchen investment. Her tips for making broth from veggie scraps and bones are both economical and delicious.
We also dive into Heather's own backyard, including her innovative "hügelkultur mound" gardening technique perfect for difficult woodland soil or the rocky plots in my own home town.
In these challenging times, Heather reminds us to lean into our community relationships, and to support and rely on our neighbors. As larger systems falter, knowing the folks on your block matters more than ever.
Tune in for a conversation that balances real concern with practical hope - exactly what I needed to hear right now .
Heather is always great for recommendations. Here are a few from our chat today.
Circle of Aunts and Uncles - Community loan fund supporting sustainable small businesses
Lundale Farms - Nonprofit preserving farmland and woodland for young regenerative farmers
Pennsylvania Association of Sustainable Agriculture - Supporting climate-smart farming initiatives
Local Food Promotion Project - USDA grant program for local agricultural products
Rodale Institute - Pioneers of the organic movement
Books to read
Love Nature Magic by Maria Rodale - Exploring shamanic journeys in gardening
The Enchanted Edible Forest by Dani Baker - Guide to perennial vegetables and forest gardening
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