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Fresh Take

Florida Certified Organic Growers & Consumers, INC.

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Fresh Take is your roundup of all things related to organic and sustainable living. Join Florida Organic Growers staff and guest experts as we discuss everything you need to know about sustainable living, organic agriculture, and how to make the best lifestyle choices that benefit you and the environment. So if you’re an eco-warrior, a dedicated farmer, or just someone looking to make more conscious decisions, tune in to get your Fresh Take.
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Are you aware of the hidden dangers lurking in your fruits and vegetables? Join us on Fresh Take for an eye-opening discussion with Juan Carlos Rodriguez, an Education and Outreach Specialist at Florida Organic Growers. We promise you’ll gain critical insights into the "Dirty Dozen," a list of produce most contaminated with pesticides, and understa…
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Discover how your daily cup of coffee can transform lives and support the planet! In this podcast, we sit down with Tripp Pomeroy, co-owner and CEO of Sweetwater Organic Coffee. Tripp shares his journey from working with Latin American landscapers to championing fair trade practices in the coffee industry. Learn how Sweetwater's ethical approach be…
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In this episode we chat with Hannah Wooten, a UF IFAS extension agent from Orange County, Florida, about how urban development and sustainable agriculture intersect in local food systems. Hannah's journey from Valencia Community College to her work in horticulture and ethnobotany shows us the deep connection between plants and people. We learn abou…
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Can food recovery revolutionize our approach to food waste and sustainability? Find out as we sit down with Emily Grant, Director of Florida Operations for foodrecovery.org, who shares her incredible journey from urban planning to leading food recovery efforts. Emily’s story is rooted in community engagement, from her hands-on work in a Sarasota co…
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Unlock the potential of organic farming in the Southeast with guidance from experts Amanda Rose Newton and Emily Deruelle of Florida Organic Growers. Our enlightening conversation peels back the layers of the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE-TOPP), and you'll gain invaluable insights into developing successful organic practic…
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In this episode of Fresh Take, we welcome special guests Hank and Jessica from Allison Acres to discuss their journey into organic blueberry farming. Hank, a retired FBI agent, shares his inspiration for transitioning to farming, influenced by his background in law enforcement. Jessica, with a background in Environmental Science, talks about her st…
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Imagine your palate embarking on a voyage where every flavor tells a story of community, sustainability, and creativity. That's exactly the kind of sensory adventure you're in for as Jeffrey Schlissel, the cuisine virtuoso and barbecue 'Kingpin,' joins us at the table. With nicknames like 'Bacon Cartel,' you know this conversation is going to sizzl…
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Embark on a culinary journey with Hari Pulapaka, the force behind the Global Cooking School. Discover the importance of food transparency and traceability, where every bite tells a story. As a mathematician-turned-chef, Hari's passion for ingredients with a clear backstory has fostered collaborations between chefs and farmers, aiming for an honest …
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Discover the heartbeat of sustainable agriculture with Audrey Coldy from the National Center for Appropriate Technology, as she brings her rich farming heritage and knowledge to our latest conversation. Her passion for intertwining nature with history to promote food equity and environmental stewardship is nothing short of inspiring. As we navigate…
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Summary: In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider joins Dr. Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a discussion on FSMA’s produce safety rule and microbiology concepts related to food safety. In this episode, Dr. Keith Schneider discusses microbiology concepts that help farmers better understand how to produce food safely. Tune in to learn about: The Produce Safety…
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Discover the transformative world of organic agriculture as Andi Emrich, programs manager of Florida Organic Growers, joins our host Lana Chehabeddine, in unraveling the wonders behind the upcoming Organic Food and Farming Summit April 18-19 in Tampa, FL! Andi, brings her unique expertise to the table, guiding us through the Summit's inception and …
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In this podcast episode, Catherine Campbell, PhD, MPH, and Jesse Haskins delve into the impact of the Florida Greenbelt Law on farm property taxes. Catherine, an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, shares her expertise in community food systems, emphasizing research for health, sustainability, equity, and resilience. The discussion co…
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Lana and Andi invite Florida local food actors to join the Florida Local Food Network, and to get started by attending our virtual training event January 18th, "Platform Training & Kickoff!" Fresh Take host Lana Chehabeddine takes on the guest role to talk about the Florida Local Food Project, FOG’s USDA-funded initiative to connect local farmers w…
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Join Lana and Joy for a conversation about sustainable baking practices. Joy, a former pastry chef and current FOG Local Nutrition and Outreach Coordinator, introduces the concept of sustainable baking, emphasizing the importance of minimizing environmental impact, reducing waste, and supporting local communities. Practical tips include embracing s…
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Dr. Javier Garces joins JC for a conversation about Certified Organic Farm Technician training (COFT), a comprehensive program designed to provide high school and post-secondary students with the specialized knowledge, skills, and experience they’ll need to enter the agricultural workforce. Dr. Garces is currently serving as a Professor and Program…
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In this episode, JC and Dr. Carlene Chase explore some of the biggest challenges facing farmers, discuss the potential of organic farming practices to address these issues, and delve into science-based solutions, highlighting the benefits of cover crops. Dr. Chase is an associate professor at UF with a research focus on weed management, methyl brom…
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FOG Board Vice President Logan Petrey joins us to discuss the benefits of organic farming practices and The Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). Logan Petrey is the Ranch Manager for Grimmway Farms’ organic farm in North Florida, as well as serving as the National Organic Standard Board member. Join us to learn about SE-TOPP, a USDA pr…
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Join us for a conversation with FOG’s own Andi Emrich about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program and how it helps current and future organic farmers. In this episode, we are spreading the word about the Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP). Discover how OCCSP offers financial support to organic farmers, assisting them in obtaini…
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Patrick Ferguson, Senior Organizing Representative for Sierra Club’s Stop Sugar Field Burning Campaign, joins us to discuss the environmental impact of pre-harvest sugar burning. Beginning in 2015, the Stop the Burn campaign focuses on the environmental and public health consequences of pre-harvest sugar field burning. We will explore the success o…
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Join us as we dive into the world of food systems and community development with Kim Hines and discover how strategic planning and innovative tools are shaping a more resilient future.   Kim Hines is a Leadership Co-Chair of the North American Food Systems Network with an interest in following national trends in local and regional food systems empl…
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Join us for an informative discussion with Tom Wichman, an expert on eco-friendly landscaping with nearly 50 years’ experience in the industry. A self-proclaimed plant nerd, Tom is currently the Assistant Director for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program and the statewide coordinator for the Green Industries Best Management Practices Program. T…
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Join FOG’s own Lana Chehabeddine and Juan Carlos Rodriguez for a conversation about the Florida Local Food Project. We will delve into the Florida Local Food Project, a compelling initiative led by FOG, focused on enhancing local food systems across Florida. Through six key objectives, the project aims to bolster food security, sustainability, and …
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Mike Campbell, founder and lead farmer of South Florida’s first commercial aquaponic farm Bare Roots Organics, joins us to talk about how aquaponics fits into his vision for the future of sustainable farming. Mike shares his journey and passion for building a sustainable world, driven by his background in film/television and love for nature and qua…
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Continue our conversation about food sovereignty with the University of South Florida’s Nicole Brand and Will Schanbacher. Nicole Brand is the Director of the Environmental Conservation Outreach, Research, and Education (ECORE) System at USF, overseeing the USF Forest Preserve, the USF Botanical Gardens and a geological park. Will Schanbacher is an…
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Dell deChant joins us for a discussion about food sovereignty and its aim to challenge existing food structures and place power back into the people’s hands. Dell deChant is an Instructor at the University of South Florida, specializing in religion and contemporary cultures. deChant's current research focuses on Agrarianism in American popular cult…
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Join us today as Kabir Parker discusses everything you need to know about seaweed and its contribution to sustainable agriculture. Learn what makes seaweed, “The Secret Sauce”. Kabir Parker is a passionate ocean entrepreneur. Born in Greenwich, Connecticut and raised in New Delhi, India, he developed a vast knowledge of global oceanic issues. Kabir…
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Join us today as Melissa Desa speaks with us about how the organization Working Food is involved in growing resilient local food systems. With over a decade of experience, Melissa Desa is a seed steward, artist, educator, and ecologist living in Gainesville, Florida. She is a co-founder of the non-profit Working Food based in Gainesville, Florida w…
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Monica Hampton, Ph.D, national and international agriculture consultant for TerraNutri, converses with Lana Chehabeddine on the topic of nutrient and weed management techniques. Monica Hampton, Ph.D., brings 20 years of research on agriculture and crop production. She serves on the board of trustees at the Compost Research and Education Foundation …
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We are thrilled to have Anne Yasalonis with us today, as she discusses Spring Gardening for residents in Florida. Anne Yasalonis is the residential horticulture agent and master gardener volunteer coordinator at UF/IFAS in Polk County. The residential horticulture program focuses on providing research-based education to Polk County residents on top…
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Join us for a chat with one of FOG’s very own Board of Directors, Teresa Pemberton-Jouany, as she gives us a rundown of Earth Day and organics’ role in this celebratory day. Teresa Pemberton-Jouany is a Florida native from generations of cattle ranchers and citrus growers. After leaving the farm and working around the globe through her career in fa…
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Join us for a conversation with our Virtual Market Manager, Courtney Ward, to learn about the Backyard Market Initiative and the exciting updates for local consumers and vendors! Get ready to join a new wave of local food shopping, through the Backyard Market—a virtual farmers market platform developed by Florida Organic Growers that enables produc…
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Get the inside scoop with Ira Wallace, also known as “the Godmother of Southern Seeds,” as she sheds light on all things seeds and its importance in the food industry. Ira Wallace is an organic grower, author, speaker, and one of the original pioneers behind organic seed saving. For the last 25 years, Ira has been a worker/owner of the cooperativel…
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Leslie Touzeau, Organic Policy Manager at QCS (Quality Certification Services), chats with Juan Carlos Rodriguez about how she came across this career path, experiences that contributed to her current role, and places to look further to launch oneself into the organic food industry. Tune in to learn about: - Leslie’s background and pathway to her c…
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Anna Cesarotti, Associate Director of Organic Certification at QCS (Quality Certification Services), speaks with Juan Carlos Rodriguez about career opportunities in the growing industry of organics. In this episode, learn about: - How Anna came to work in organics - Types of careers in the organic industry - Why the organic industry is growing - Ho…
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Organic Materials Research Institute (OMRI) is an international 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that reviews and lists allowed materials that organic producers can use. In this episode, learn about: How OMRI began OMRI’s mission and role in the industry today What it means to be "OMRI Listed®" Technical support and training opportunities for profe…
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Interest in growing and buying local flowers has grown immensely over the past few years, helping consumers embrace local agriculture, support local farmers, and access even more varieties of local grown flowers. In this episode, learn about: - Floriculture and why it’s becoming an increasingly popular industry today - The Slow Flower Movement - Ho…
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With the holiday season right around the corner, now is the time for recipe planning! By incorporating locally grown foods into your holiday recipes, you can make tasty dishes and feel good about supporting your local farmer. In this episode, hear about: - What crops are in season in Florida - Unique recipes using local ingredients - Where to purch…
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Carolina Farm Stewardship Association (CFSA) is a farmer-driven, membership-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that helps people in North and South Carolina grow and enjoy local, organic food. Founded in 1979, the organization advocates, educates, and builds connections to create sustainable food systems in the Carolinas centered on local and …
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Georgia Organics has been rooted in providing direct support to small and organic farmers across Georgia since the 1970s, before formally incorporating as a 501(c)(3) in 1997. Michael Wall, Director of Farmer Advocacy, highlights some of the organization’s programs and farmer advocacy initiatives. Tune in to hear about: - Georgia Organics’ new miss…
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Florida Organic Growers and Santa Fe college have partnered in a three-year grant designed to increase access and promote consumption of Florida heritage foods in local farmer’s markets. The project, entitled “Florida Heritage Foods Initiative: Connecting Local Food with Local Culture in Florida Farmers Markets,” aims to highlight historical and cu…
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The mission of the Florida Wildflower Foundation is to protect, connect and expand native wildflower habitats through education, research, planting and conservation. With Florida being one of the fastest growing states in U.S., there has been an increase in urbanization and habitat loss due to development. Stacey Matrazzo, Executive Director of the…
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The Organic Certification Cost Share Program (OCCSP) is a USDA program which provides reimbursements to producers and handlers of organic agricultural products who are obtaining or renewing their certification under the National Organic Program (NOP). In this episode, we speak with Emily Hetherington from Industry Communications in the Division of …
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The Backyard Market is a new virtual farmers market platform launching in Homestead, Florida in fall of 2022. In this episode, we speak with Courtney Ward, FOG’s Virtual Farmers Market Manager, about updates on the market. Tune in to hear about: - Why FOG decided to create the online market - How farmers and consumers can use the market - What make…
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Yaupon Brothers American Tea Company was founded in 2015 by two brothers, Bryon and Kyle White and former mentor-turned-business-partner, Mark Steele. Bryon recently took time to speak with us about Yaupon tea, a native crop of the Southern United States. Tune in to hear about: - How the company was started - What Yaupon is and why it is a benefici…
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Veterans Florida is a non-profit created by the State of Florida in 2013 to help military veterans transition to civilian life and to promote Florida’s status as the nation’s most veteran-friendly state. One of its many programs is the Veterans Florida Agriculture Program, a six-month training fellowship that provides veterans and servicemembers a …
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Farm Aid was founded in 1985 in the midst of the 1980’s farm crisis. As a response to farmers in dire need of assistance, Willie Nelson, Neil Young and John Mellencamp held the first concert which raised over $7 million for America’s family farmers. Since then, Farm Aid has continued to support farmers through a variety of programs. We speak with C…
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Founded in 1990, Rural Advancement for Farmers International (RAFI-USA) challenges the root causes of unjust food systems, supporting and advocating for economically, racially, and ecologically just farm communities. Lisa Misch, Director of Farmer Outreach and Technical Assistance at RAFI-USA, highlights some of the organization’s programs and fund…
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Jen Speedy is a farmer and Collective Member of Siembra Farm, a small-scale, sustainable farm in SE Gainesville, FL. With plans to open a new flower farm, Jen talks to us about things people should consider when setting up a new farm. In this episode hear about: - Challenges new farmers may face when starting a farm - Avoiding farmer burnout - Meth…
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In Episode 1 of FOG’s Food Safety for Farmers Podcast Series, Dr. Keith Schneider, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Food Science and Human Nutrition Department at the University of Florida, discusses microbiology concepts that help farmers better understand how to produce food safely. Tune in to learn about: The Produce Safety Rule Problem…
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Aviva Asher and Daniel Robleto are founders and owners of Nicoya Farm, a family fruit and vegetable farm located in Gainesville, Florida. In 2015 they began Nicoya Farm on leased land in South Florida and transitioned the farm to collectively owned land in SE Gainesville. In this episode, hear about: - How Aviva and Daniel got started farming - The…
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