Forage Hawaii Podcast

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Korey Harris, who transitioned from a police officer to a full-time farmer on Maui. Discover the challenges and triumphs of running Simple Roots Farm, from navigating the complexities of sustainable farming to balancing family life. Korey shares insights into the realities of farming in Hawaii, the importance of community support, and the passion th...

takeaways Haley and Matthew co-own Ahiki Acres, a diversified farm in Waimanalo. Haley's journey into farming was influenced by her experiences with food security in Hawaii. The importance of family support in starting and running a farm. GoFarm Hawaii provides essential training for beginner farmers. Organic farming has misconceptions that need to be addressed. Soil health is crucial for sust...

In this conversation, Jess interviews Brad DeLuz, owner of Hamakua Meat Processors, about his role in processing meat for local farmers and ranchers on the Big Island of Hawaii. They discuss the challenges and rewards of working in the meat processing industry, the history of beef supply in Hawaii, the sourcing and quality of the meat, and the importance of food safety and regulations. Brad also s...

Nicole Galase, the managing director of Hawaii Cattlemen's Council, discusses the work of the Hawaii Cattlemen's Council and the Hawaii Rangeland Stewardship Foundation in promoting and supporting the cattle industry in Hawaii. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and outreach to tell the story of the cattle industry and address negative perceptions. Nicole also highlights the generation...

Emily Ta'aroa from Puna Chicks on the Big Island shares her journey into farming and raising chickens in Hawaii. She grew up in Honolulu and was inspired by backyard gardening and visiting the Big Island as a teenager. After working on a noni farm and gaining respect for farmers, she wrote a business plan for pastured poultry and started her own farm. Emily also discussed the costs associated...

In this conversation, Jessica Rohr and Vince Dodge discuss the use of kiawe (mesquite) as a food source. Uncle Vince dries, mills, and creates edible 'Aina bars and flour out of the pods of the abundant Kiawe Trees found in huge quanties on the West side of O'ahu, through his company Wai'anae Gold. You can find his products at various stores and food hubs including Kahumana and Farm Li...

David Wong, owner of Mountain View Farms, shares his journey from being a dairy farm to practicing Korean natural farming, an unconventional method that focuses on balance and harmony in the microbiome of plants, animals, and humans. In this conversation, David Wong discusses the unconventional way of raising pigs on his farm, which focuses on creating a healthy microbiome for the animals. He emph...

In this conversation, Jessica Rohr interviews Jake Muse, CEO and co-founder of Maui Nui Venison. Jake shares the story of how Maui Nui Venison began and how they have evolved over the years. They talk about the challenges they have faced, including negative feedback and the difficulty of getting support from the government. They also discuss the importance of their mission to provide sustainable,...

In this episode I welcome Taylor Kellerman, the Director of Diversified Agriculture and Land Stewardship at Kualoa Ranch. Taylor shares his perspectives on our food system and his experience in industrial agriculture and his transition to small scale diversified ag, along with the amazing work being done at Kualoa Ranch. We explore the requirement for industrial agriculture in our food system, whi...

In this conversation, Thomas Heaton, a reporter for Civil Beat, discusses his background growing up in New Zealand and his interest in agriculture and the food system. He shares his experiences with agriculture and food here in Hawai'i with a variety of subjects the listener is sure to find fascinating. Thomas Heaton's archive: https://www.civilbeat.org/author/thomas-heaton/?archive=1

Raia Olson, owner of Oahu Grazers, shares her journey into solar grazing and raising sheep for a unique market. She explains how solar companies contract her to graze and manage vegetation on solar sites, which also helps with fire mitigation. Raia discusses the challenges of processing sheep on Oahu and the need for a local food hub to support the market. She emphasizes the importance of providin...

In this podcast episode, Jessica Rohr and Bryan Mayer discuss their backgrounds in the food and agriculture industry, with a focus on meat and butchery. They talk about the challenges and changes they have witnessed in the industry, including the consolidation of the meat industry in Hawaii. They highlight the importance of access to capital and the need for laws and regulations that support regio...

In this conversation, Jessica Rohr and Pomai Weigert discuss their backgrounds in agriculture and agritourism in Hawaii. They talk about the importance of locally produced food and the challenges of the food system in Hawaii. The conversation highlights the need for food security and the connection between food and culture. They also discuss the concept of greenwashing and how it can mislead consu...

Aloha! Let's talk about where our food comes from. Here we go!