Episode Details

Join Dr. Steve and his wife, Theresa, as they interview Spencer, a passionate farmer, in this eye-opening episode. Discover the world of sustainable farming as Spencer shares his journey after acquiring his family farm. Learn about rotational grazing, supporting local farmers, and making informed food choices that promote healthier living. Uncover the truth behind labels and deceptive marketing in the food industry. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that will change how you view your food!

Spencer and his wife Sarah own The Red Fern Farm, where they offer a variety of healthy meat products, including beef, chicken, pork, and eggs. They began raising a few animals for the family to teach their young kids that meat didn't come from a package. They started with 100 meat birds and quickly gained popularity. Their offerings now extend to local markets, grocery stores, and restaurants, along with monthly memberships. They prioritize sustainability by supplementing non-GMO grains for their pigs and raising chickens on pasture. The beef they sell is entirely grass-fed and finished. You can stay updated on their farming journey via @theredfernfarm on social media.

[00:01 - 12:52] Cultivating Sustainable Farming and Food Education

Spencer shares how he got into farming after buying his family farm.

Differentiates between layer chickens (for eggs) and meat birds (for high-quality meat).

Rotational grazing involves dividing the farm into paddocks and moving animals periodically to promote healthy grass growth.

Spencer also emphasizes the importance of educating children about the origins of their food.

[12:53 - 36:14] Supporting Local Farmers and Making Informed Food Choices

Highlights the long-term benefits of investing in higher quality, locally-sourced food

Importance of supporting local farmers who prioritize ethical and sustainable practices

Opting for whole foods over ultra-processed products can significantly benefit overall health.

Educating children about healthy eating and the importance of supporting local farmers can lead to a generation of informed consumers.

Being cautious of front-of-package labels and focusing on reading ingredient lists can help customers make better food choices.

[36:15 - 48:57] What's Sold at the Farmer's Market

The farm primarily sells beef, chicken, pork, and eggs at the farmer's market.

Their beef is 100% grass-fed and finished, ensuring a sustainable and healthy product.

The farm emphasizes sustainable farming methods, leading to thicker pastures and increased wildlife on the farm.

The farm supplies meat and eggs to local restaurants, supporting the community and promoting local produce.

[48:58 - 01:00] Closing Segment

Labels can be deceiving. Some companies use "greenwashing" to make products seem eco-friendly when they'