Episode 11: An Intro to Regenerative Farming

What is regenerative agriculture, and why are more farmers turning to it?In Episode 11 of the AG & Culture Podcast, Mike Usry and Joseph Boehm wrap up their 3-part series on organic vs natural & regenerative farming by breaking down the principles behind one of the fastest-growing movements in agriculture today.  While organic focuses on what you can’t use, regenerative agriculture focuses on what you should do — rebuilding soil, restoring ecosystems, and working with nature instead of against it.This episode takes a practical, real-world look at regenerative farming through firsthand experience on the Southland farm.Topics Covered in This Episode• What regenerative agriculture is (in simple terms)• The difference between organic and regenerative farming• Why regenerative agriculture is centered around soil health• How rotational grazing works (pigs, cattle, and paddocks)• Why moving animals frequently improves land and animal health• How manure becomes food for soil biology• The role of microbes, insects, and ecosystems in regenerative systems• Why avoiding antibiotics can improve soil function• How regenerative systems reduce the need for chemical inputs• When and why soil conditioners are still used in regenerative systems• Whether regenerative agriculture can scale to large commercial farms• First steps to transition from organic to regenerative practices• The mindset shift required for regenerative farmingMike also shares a key principle:The most important thing a farmer can put on his land… is his own shadowRegenerative agriculture requires attention, observation, and active stewardship — not just inputs.Key TakeawayRegenerative agriculture isn’t just a method — it’s a mindset.Instead of trying to control the system, it’s about building a system that sustains itself through healthy soil, biodiversity, and natural cycles.