Homegrown Show with Ben Cummings

Military historian, museum founder, and autism advocate Aaron Bouma shares his experiences growing up autistic, the challenges he faced in school, how his special interests shaped his career, and why society still misunderstands autism. Aaron discusses Canada’s lack of adult supports, sensory overwhelm, ABA, nonverbal communication, mental health struggles, the “telepathy tapes,” military intelligence units, and the dangers of misinformation around autism—including the recent Tylenol and cure-claim controversies.We also talk about homeschooling autistic children, employment barriers, stigma, navigating daily life as an autistic adult, and how families can better support neurodivergent loved ones.This conversation is essential for parents of autistic kids, teachers, neurodivergent adults, mental-health advocates, and anyone interested in autism acceptance, military history, or unique neurodivergent abilities.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 on Patreon now! https://patreon.com/homegrownshowJoin our group chat!https://t.me/+HmK47zvGCNsxODlh↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cummingsbenjhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this in-depth conversation, Ben sits down with nutrition counselor and former firefighter/navy veteran Neil Burchill to uncover what’s really driving today’s health crisis. With over 20 years of experience and more than 10,000 clients, Neil breaks down why weight loss culture is broken, why muscle mass is the true predictor of long-term health, and why modern diets are leaving people malnourished despite eating more than ever.Together, they dive into macronutrients, inflammation, GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, the collapse of food quality, the rise of chronic illness, gut health, natural medicine, stress physiology, and the disconnect between healthcare and nutrition. Neil also shares his personal experience with vaccine-induced myocarditis, and the metabolic strategy he used to recover.Whether you’re interested in nutrition, homesteading, health policy, natural remedies, or understanding the root causes of modern disease, this episode delivers hard truths, practical insights, and a perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.00:00 – Introduction01:00 – Neil’s Background in Nutrition02:00 – Why Weight Loss Culture Is Broken05:00 – Muscle vs. Fat: The Real Health Metric09:00 – Why People Don’t Know How to Feed Themselves12:00 – Macros That Matter16:00 – Understanding “Toxins”19:00 – Gut Health, Microbiome & Prebiotics24:00 – Common Complaints Neil Sees in Clients28:00 – Metabolism, Fuel, and Muscle Loss34:00 – Cultural Detachment From Food38:00 – Food Quality Collapse42:00 – Hunger as an Emotion45:00 – GLP-1, Ozempic & the Weight Loss Craze50:00 – What GLP-1 Actually Does to the Body54:00 – Muscle Atrophy & Long-Term Consequences59:00 – The Healthcare vs. Sick-Care Debate1:05:00 – Systemic Problems in Modern Medicine1:12:00 – Neil’s COVID Vaccine Injury1:20:00 – Using Nutrition to Reverse Damage1:27:00 – Rise in Chronic & Neurological Disease1:33:00 – Stress, Environment & Systemic Breakdown1:40:00 – Food Variety, Seasonality & Digestion1:47:00 – Why Cooking Skills Are Disappearing1:52:00 – The Cost of Healthy Food & DIY Solutions1:57:00 – Empowerment Through Community & Knowledge2:00:00 – Closing Thoughts

Ben sits down with medicinal horticulturalist Zack Drost, a grower with more than 20 years of hands-on experience in cannabis cultivation, genetics, and plant-based medicine.Zack breaks down stigma, science, cannabinoids, terpenes, cultivation methods, natural medicine, and why cannabis is far more complex than THC percentages.This interview is ideal for growers, medical patients, homesteaders, and anyone curious about cannabis as both a medicine and a plant.CHAPTERS00:00 – Introductions & Zack’s BackgroundZack explains his role as a medicinal horticulturalist and his two decades of cannabis experience.04:00 – Cannabis Stigma & Changing Generational AttitudesUnderstanding cultural resistance, misconceptions, and why public perception is shifting.12:00 – Hemp vs. Cannabis: Laws, Licensing & HistoryTHC thresholds, historical agriculture, and why hemp licensing remains complicated in Canada.19:00 – Medicinal Uses: Topicals, RSO, Tinctures & Full-Spectrum ExtractsHow cannabis is used medically without psychoactive effects.28:00 – Cannabinoids, Terpenes & the Endocannabinoid SystemTHC, CBD, CBN, CBG, terpenes, and how they work together to create different effects.38:00 – CHS (Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome) & Overuse RisksWhat causes it, who it affects, and how moderation matters.47:00 – Diet, Farming & Cannabis as Part of Holistic HealthNutrition, meat quality, allergies, and natural wellness.56:00 – Livestock Feed Regulations & Hemp for AnimalsWhy hemp feeding is restricted and what regulators are concerned about.1:05:00 – Psychedelic Experience & Plant-Medicine PhilosophyZack shares a transformative personal experience that shaped his connection to plant medicine.1:13:00 – Ornamental Cannabis & Flower ShowcaseExploring cannabis as a visually stunning, diverse ornamental plant.1:23:00 – Aroma Profiles, Terpenes & Cultivar DifferencesSkunk, fruit, gas, sweetness—what smells reveal about the plant.1:34:00 – Growing Philosophy: Soil, Microbes, Compost & MolassesOrganic growing, soil biology, and how to “listen” to your plants.1:46:00 – Hydro vs. Soil & Reading Plant SignalsGrowing styles, feeding strategies, and advice for new growers.1:58:00 – Future of Cannabis & Closing ThoughtsZack’s final reflections on natural medicine and where cannabis is headed.ABOUT THE GUEST: ZACK DROSTZack is a medicinal horticulturalist specializing in cannabis cultivation, genetics, and full-spectrum plant medicine. His 20+ years of hands-on experience make him one of the most knowledgeable growers in the region.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 on Patreon now! https://patreon.com/homegrownshowJoin our group chat!https://t.me/+HmK47zvGCNsxODlh↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cummingsbenjhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this in-depth conversation, we sit down with a Colombian economist and Canadian immigrant who explains—candidly—what’s happening to Canada’s economy, political culture, immigration system, and national identity. Drawing from personal experience with socialism, geopolitical instability, and economic collapse, he outlines the warning signs he sees repeating here at home.A challenging discussion that connects economics, culture, history, and Canada’s future.Chapters 00:00 – Introduction00:00:00 – Canada’s immigration system: “It was working… then they broke it.”00:01:12 – Culture vs. race and what Canada is getting wrong00:02:56 – “No nation can stand divided”00:04:03 – Citizenship, Western philosophy & assimilation00:05:57 – Culture clashes in Canada today00:06:53 – Propaganda, censorship & the broken status quo00:09:03 – Colombian culture & New Brunswick similarities00:10:17 – Racism, ignorance & economic incentives00:10:49 – “First duty is to Canadians”00:11:17 – Crime, racism & economic decline00:12:05 – Erasing history and repeating it00:13:01 – “Immigrants don’t make the law”00:14:00 – Media bias, opposition, and political accountability00:15:14 – Dangerous political rhetoric and division00:16:10 – Socialism, Venezuela & Cuba: lessons from collapse00:20:01 – Elite privilege under communist regimes00:21:34 – “Rules for thee, not for me”00:22:29 – Geopolitics & Canada’s vulnerability00:23:11 – New economic era: AI, carbon, EVs00:24:12 – “We’re consuming more than we produce”00:25:00 – The budget warning: “Canada is in trouble”00:26:02 – “This has no mathematical model—except the French Revolution”00:26:49 – Private sector collapse & nationalization risks00:27:54 – Healthcare breakdown: nurses without doctors00:29:08 – Social programs, debt & economic strain00:30:43 – Is mass immigration being used to boost tax revenue?00:31:20 – Government-created jobs vs real economic growth00:32:01 – EV monopolies & China’s strategic advantage00:33:14 – Canada’s resources & the mining debate00:34:33 – Monopolies vs. capitalism00:36:01 – Food waste, supermarket power & local agriculture00:37:00 – “If the nation collapses, so do we"00:37:24 – Final thoughts on unity, dialogue & Canada’s futureLeave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 on Patreon now! https://patreon.com/homegrownshowJoin our group chat!https://t.me/+HmK47zvGCNsxODlh↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cummingsbenjhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In 1944, ordinary families grew 40% of America’s vegetables through backyard “Victory Gardens.”Today, that spirit of independence has been replaced by total reliance on grocery stores, corporate farms, and global supply chains — and it’s time to take it back.In this episode, Ben breaks down:How small gardens once fed nationsWhy modern “efficiency” is actually fragilityHow Bayer, Monsanto, Cargill, and grocery monopolies profit from dependenceThe staggering data showing 750% ROI and 5× more nutrients from homegrown produceWhy self-sufficiency is the greatest threat to controlAnd how a new, quiet revolution can start with one seed packetThis is not about prepping or panic — it’s about freedom, resilience, and community.Grow food, trade with neighbors, and rebuild real independence.Because a population that can feed itself is a population that can’t be controlled.00:00 – The Original Victory GardensHow ordinary Americans once grew 40% of the nation’s vegetables in backyard and community plots.00:30 – What Changed After the WarThe loss of self-reliance and rise of dependence on centralized food systems.01:10 – The Myth of EfficiencyWhy today’s industrial agriculture and grocery chains are fragile, not efficient.02:00 – The Profit MotiveHow corporate food systems and seed monopolies profit from your dependence.03:00 – Control and ComplianceWhy self-sufficient citizens threaten centralized control and corporate profits.03:40 – The Data That Proves Gardening PaysStudy results: 750% financial return and five-times-higher nutrients in homegrown food.04:20 – The Closed-Loop SystemHow processed food, poor health, and pharmaceuticals form a profit cycle.05:00 – A New Victory Garden MovementWhat happens if millions plant even a 10×10-foot plot.05:50 – Rebuilding Real CommunityTrading produce, sharing skills, and restoring local connection.06:30 – Freedom Over ConvenienceGrowing food as an act of independence, not survivalism.07:00 – The Modern Call to ActionHow to start: buy seeds, use any space, involve neighbors or community gardens.07:50 – Freedom, Food, and TyrannySelf-sufficiency as the ultimate rebellion against dependence and control.#VictoryGarden #GrowYourOwnFood #FoodIndependence #Homesteading #SelfSufficiency #FreedomThroughFarming #GardeningRevolution #FoodSecurity #HomesteadLife #FarmToTable #GardenEconomyLeave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 on Patreon now! https://patreon.com/homegrownshowJoin our group chat!https://t.me/+HmK47zvGCNsxODlh↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cummingsbenjhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this in-depth conversation, Ben sits down with Suzanne Fournier, Executive Director of the National Farmers Union in New Brunswick, to unpack the state of farming in Canada today — from corporate control and export dependency to food sovereignty, small farm challenges, and climate resilience.Fournier shares candid insights on how government policy, market concentration, and bureaucracy impact small farmers, and why buying local and supporting primary producers is essential for the future of food security. This discussion covers everything from farmland loss and supply management to garlic imports and farm profitability — and why farmers in New Brunswick paid to farm last year.🎥 Full interview topics include:Agroecology and the NFU’s missionCorporate concentration and policy failuresSelf-sufficiency, export focus, and farmland protectionThe state of supply management in CanadaClimate resilience and government inactionBureaucracy, communication failures, and red tapeCultural loss of food knowledge and wasteFarm income crisis and the need for systemic reform📍 Chapters00:00 – Intro: Who is Suzanne Fournier and what is the NFU?02:00 – How the NFU stays independent from government and corporate control04:00 – What “corporate control” really means in agriculture06:00 – Why New Brunswick’s food self-sufficiency is only ~7%10:00 – Government export focus and farmland loss14:00 – Local procurement: what it means and why it matters17:00 – Lessons from Europe on food sovereignty and local systems21:00 – The decline in food quality and the monoculture problem25:00 – Consolidation, factory farming, and pricing control30:00 – Fixing monopolies: Competition Bureau and collective marketing35:00 – How supply management works (and its limits)40:00 – Climate change and small farm adaptability45:00 – Bureaucracy, regulation, and communication breakdowns55:00 – Why young farmers give up — red tape and fear of penalties01:00:00 – Political will, food insecurity, and public action01:05:00 – The NFU’s role and how to get involved01:10:00 – The farm income crisis: farmers paid to farm01:15:00 – Garlic imports, food waste, and lost food culture01:25:00 – Gleaning, preservation, and community solutions01:35:00 – How to move toward true food sovereignty in New Brunswick01:45:00 – Closing thoughts: why small farms are the future🔗 Learn more:National Farmers Union New Brunswick — https://www.nfunb.orgNFU Canada — https://www.nfu.ca#FarmingInCanada #FoodSovereignty #NationalFarmersUnion #BuyLocal #SmallFarms #FoodSecurity #NewBrunswick #Agroecology #FarmersVoiceLeave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 on Patreon now! https://patreon.com/homegrownshowJoin our group chat!https://t.me/+HmK47zvGCNsxODlh↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.tiktok.com/@cummingsbenjhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

When you grab that pack of steak or chicken at the grocery store, do you actually know where it came from? How it was raised? How many hands it passed through before it reached your cart?In this episode, Ben pulls back the curtain on the modern meat industry — from industrial feedlots to mega-slaughterhouses — revealing how centralized, opaque, and disconnected our food system has become.She walks through what really happens to your beef and chicken before it ever reaches the shelf, and why local meat from a small farmer or butcher isn’t just a luxury — it’s better in every possible way.This isn’t just a conversation about food. It’s about trust, transparency, and taking back control of what ends up on your plate.00:00 – Intro: Where Does Your Meat Come From?00:27 – The Hidden Story Behind Grocery Store Meat01:00 – What Really Happens to Beef01:28 – Where Sobeys and Loblaws Get Their Beef02:45 – The Long Journey from Farm to Store03:49 – “Freshness” Tricks and Packaging Gimmicks04:45 – Why Ground Beef Isn’t What You Think05:04 – Buying Direct from Farmers: The Difference05:54 – The Chicken Industry Exposed06:50 – The Truth About “Canadian” Chicken07:35 – Humane Labels and Marketing Spin08:17 – Post-Processing Secrets08:45 – The Illusion of Choice in Big Box Meat09:30 – How Small Farms Keep It Honest10:06 – Local Food vs. Corporate Control10:29 – Health & Nutrition: Grass-Fed vs. Feedlot10:57 – The Taste Test: Real Food vs. Store Meat11:27 – The Bottom Line: Take Back Control12:07 – Ask Your Farmer — Not the LabelLeave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Support Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/patreon.com/homegrownshow

Across North America, small farmers and homesteaders are being regulated out of existence — one bylaw at a time.In this episode, Nicole breaks down the shocking new Grand Manan bylaw proposal in New Brunswick that could limit how many chickens, goats, or livestock you can own — and even force you to register your animals with the local government.What’s being sold as “sustainability” and “planning” looks a lot more like control. And it’s not just happening on Grand Manan — it’s happening across Canada and the United States.Nicole dives deep into the bigger picture:Why small farms are disappearing faster than everHow new “green” policies and zoning rules hurt rural independenceWhat these changes mean for food security and community resilienceAnd why the fight for local food freedom starts right nowThis isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about survival.📢 If you believe people should have the right to grow food, raise animals, and live freely on their land — this episode is for you.⏱️ Timecode Chapters00:00 – Introduction01:00 – The Illusion of “Order” and “Sustainability”01:25 – The Hidden Agenda: Control of Rural Life02:10 – The Disappearing Small Farm Crisis03:40 – The Canadian Farming Collapse04:54 – Grand Manan: A Case Study in Overreach06:00 – Chicken Regulations and Registration Madness08:26 – Livestock Laws: Five Acres or Nothing09:45 – Hobby Farms Under Attack11:00 – The True Cost of Compliance12:33 – Bureaucracy by Design: How the Little Guy Loses13:27 – Greenwashing and “Climate Smart” Agriculture14:33 – The Corporate Capture of Farming15:40 – What We Lose: Food Security, Freedom, and Tradition16:34 – The Battle for Grand Manan17:17 – “You Will Own Nothing…”: The Bigger Picture18:03 – A Call to Resist and Reclaim Rural Rights18:49 – Final Words: Survival, Not NostalgiaLeave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Support Us At: https://patreon.com/homegrownshow#GrandManan #FarmingInCanada #Homesteading #FarmFreedom #BylawBattle #LocalFood #FoodFreedom #SmallFarms #CanadianFarming #RuralLife #HomesteadRights #NicoleAndBen #Homegrown

After three decades in Canadian law enforcement — from the RCMP to Chief of Police in Woodstock — Mitch MacMillan has seen the highs and lows of policing firsthand. In this candid interview, Mitch opens up about what’s really going on inside modern policing, public distrust, leadership failures, moral challenges, and life after the badge. He also shares touching stories of compassion, community, and redemption — and how farming blueberries with his son became his next chapter.Whether you’re curious about policing in Canada, the human side of law enforcement, or the moral toll of serving in uniform, this conversation offers raw insight from a man who’s lived it.00:00 – IntroductionBen introduces retired Staff Sergeant Mitch MacMillan, outlining his 30-year career with the RCMP and as Chief of Police in Woodstock.06:00 – Why Policing Isn’t What You ThinkMitch explains how most officers join to help others, not to control — and how public perception and social media have distorted that truth.12:00 – Wearing Many Hats: What Officers Really DoFrom priest to counselor to law enforcer — Mitch breaks down how modern officers juggle impossible expectations.35:00 – Do Police Have Ticket Quotas?He sets the record straight on quotas, prevention policing, and community engagement — including giving gift cards instead of tickets.44:00 – The Decline of Public TrustMitch recalls how growing up meant “find a policeman if you’re lost,” versus today’s “don’t trust them” mentality — and what needs to change.46:00 – Stories That Stay With YouEmotional stories of kindness, including a phone call from a troubled teen decades later, and how simple compassion can restore faith in the badge.50:00 – A Christmas Story from the ForceMitch shares a moving story about officers secretly buying gifts for children after responding to a broken home call on Christmas Eve.52:00 – Corruption and the ConstitutionA candid discussion on whether corruption exists in Canadian policing — and the importance of understanding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.59:00 – Faith, Morality, and the Burden of the JobMitch reflects on the moral and spiritual weight of carrying a gun, and reconciling faith with the possibility of taking a life.1:00:00 – Retirement and ReflectionHow stress and family sacrifice led to Mitch’s decision to retire — and what life after the RCMP looks like.1:10:00 – The Blueberry Farm and Family LegacyMitch talks about running a blueberry farm with his son, and how their grandkids now help run the business.1:16:00 – Writing the “Rusty” Children’s StoriesThe heartwarming story behind Mitch’s children’s books inspired by a mischievous pony named Rusty, now illustrated by his daughter and grandchildren.1:23:00 – Finding Peace After the BadgeClosing thoughts on legacy, service, and rediscovering purpose through family, storytelling, and community.🕒 Chapters

Tech entrepreneur Ryan Groom shares his journey from early tech experiments in the 1980s to building cybersecurity companies, ethical hacking adventures, and launching new ventures like Kognitiv Spark (AI-enhanced remote support) and Rivur (live streaming and privacy chat app). He reflects on his grandfather's WWII legacy, the dark side of the internet from his work on child exploitation tools, the evolution of AI and its societal impacts, outdoor adventures in New Brunswick, and the balance between technology, humanity, and business. Ryan also discusses cybersecurity risks, social media's divisive effects, and the importance of real-world connections over digital ones. This conversation blends personal stories, tech insights, and philosophical musings on modern life.[01:00:00:00 - 01:05:36:00] Introduction and Catching Up: Ryan discusses his current projects, including AI integration at Cognitive Spark, the Legacy of Courage documentary about his grandfather's WWII experiences, and starting River with his family to teach his kids about business.[01:05:36:00 - 01:10:02:04] Early Tech Career: Ryan recounts his start with computers in grade school with a Timex Sinclair, hacking school networks in the 1980s, and early jobs setting up systems for his dad's business and working as a school board tech.[01:10:02:04 - 01:18:35:16] Cybersecurity Beginnings: Stories from Cyber Secure, becoming Microsoft's first gold partner in security in Canada, speaking at conferences, and collaborating on child exploitation tracking tools with law enforcement, including Bill Gates' involvement.[01:18:35:16 - 01:25:43:16] Ethical Hacking Adventures: Ryan shares penetration testing tales, including hacking industrial systems, physical infiltrations like sneaking into a chief security officer’s office, and discovering vulnerabilities in companies and governments.[01:25:43:16 - 01:37:47:14] AI and Technology's Future: Discussions on AI's potential dangers vs. benefits, its impact on humanity, creativity, and society, drawing parallels to splitting the atom and concerns about losing human essence.[01:37:47:14 - 02:33:33:01] Social Media and Human Connection: Reflections on losing humanity through tech addiction, the importance of face-to-face interactions, social media's divisiveness, and comparisons to 1970s issues seen in All in the Family.[02:33:33:01 - 02:36:47:04] Outdoor Adventures and New Brunswick: Tales from ATV trips, exploring Grand Manan Island, and advocating for balanced resource management to preserve New Brunswick’s natural beauty for tourism.[02:36:47:04 - 02:45:31:22] River Ventures: Details on River's live streaming for university sports, rebuilding the platform with his son, and the upcoming River Chat app for disposable phone numbers and encrypted messaging.[02:45:31:22 - 03:00:09:17] Privacy, Security, and Modern Life: Concerns about encryption, government access, digital diets, and how technology affects brain chemistry, including the benefits of green spaces and risks of "zoochosis" in urban routines.[03:00:09:17 - 03:16:07:21] Wrapping Up: Final thoughts on politics, media echo chambers, timeless human conflicts, and a call for more real-world adventures with plans to continue ATVing and content creation.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this eye-opening episode of the Homegrown Show, host Sloane Rees sits down with the Executive Director of Sanctuary House, a 24/7 transition house in New Brunswick dedicated to providing safety and support for women and children fleeing domestic abuse. Drawing from her experience in crisis intervention and mental health, the director sheds light on the alarming epidemic of intimate partner violence in the province—where rates are 25% higher than the national average, and rural women face a 75% increased risk compared to urban areas.The conversation dives deep into the misconceptions surrounding abuse, emphasizing that it's rooted in power and control rather than just alcohol or rage. Beyond physical violence, they explore financial, psychological, spiritual, and emotional abuse, and how these create cycles of trauma that rewire the brain and trap victims in toxic bonds similar to addiction. Intergenerational trauma, the impact of COVID-induced isolation, and systemic failures in the justice and mental health systems are unpacked, revealing why leaving is often the most dangerous step—and why 30 days in a shelter is rarely enough.Touching on rural challenges like transportation barriers and the overlap with homelessness, addictions, and sex trafficking, the episode highlights Sanctuary House's wraparound services, including counseling, peer navigation, and emergency interventions. They discuss the dire need for community involvement, evidence-based therapy, and stable funding to break these cycles. A call to action urges listeners—especially men—to donate, volunteer skills, or raise awareness to combat this hidden crisis affecting families across Carleton County and beyond. This raw discussion underscores that abuse isn't just a "private matter"—it's a public health emergency demanding collective change.00:00 - Introduction to Domestic Violence Myths01:00 - Sanctuary House’s Mission and Services04:28 - The Epidemic of Intimate Partner Violence07:05 - Types of Abuse Beyond Physical17:43 - Intergenerational Trauma Explained24:28 - Impact on Children and Complex Behaviors45:26 - Failures in the Justice System51:24 - Funding Challenges for Sanctuary House55:05 - How the Community Can Help

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Annette Landman, a holistic health practitioner with over 16 certifications, including PhDs in natural and integrative medicine. In this episode of the Homegrown Show, Annette shares her transformative journey from battling chronic Lyme disease to becoming a leading voice in natural healing.🌿 What You'll Learn:How Annette overcame debilitating migraines and Lyme disease using quantum biofeedback and holistic methodsThe limitations of conventional medicine and why it often fails to address root causesThe impact of lifestyle, diet, and environmental toxins on healthWhy seed oils, processed foods, and chemical products harm your bodyThe importance of whole foods, local farming, and reconnecting with your bodyInsights into quantum biofeedback and the role of vibrations in healingAnnette also critiques the modern medical system, discusses the dangers of over-reliance on pharmaceuticals, and advocates for mindful living to prevent toxic overload. From her clinic in Florenceville, New Brunswick, Canada, she helps clients with complex conditions like chronic Lyme and long COVID, offering hope through natural remedies and personalized care.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this interview, we dive into the heart of the Valley Food Bank’s mission to combat hunger in a small Canadian community in 2025. Monica, a dedicated food bank leader, shares the stark realities of serving a growing need and relying on community donations, and stretching a single $50,000 government grant to feed families, seniors, and the homeless. From navigating rising costs and winter shortages to preparing 400 Christmas boxes, learn how this food bank balances emergency aid with dignity. Discover the challenges of volunteer shortages, societal stigma, and the need for basic life skills education, plus inspiring stories of local farmers and churches stepping up. Join us to see how a community fights food insecurity and how you can help. Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

An engaging conversation with Kevin Briggs, a third-generation dairy farmer from New Brunswick, Canada, as he shares his insights on dairy farming, raw milk advocacy, and the challenges of the industry. In this candid interview, Kevin discusses his lifelong experience with raw milk, its benefits, and the misconceptions surrounding it, emphasizing the importance of knowing your farmer for safe consumption. He dives into the science of somatic cell counts and A2A2 milk, revealing how feed quality and butterfat impact digestibility and industry trends. With humor and heartfelt anecdotes, Kevin paints a vivid picture of the grit required to run a small-scale dairy farm while navigating Canada’s quota system, rising costs, and the loss of local processing plants.This interview uncovers the realities of dairy farming as a lifestyle, not just a job, with Kevin reflecting on the sacrifices, like missing family events, and the rewards of producing quality food. He critiques the quota system’s pros (stable income) and cons (limiting direct sales), and shares why his kids chose other paths due to low profits and high demands. From the impact of chlorinated water on raw milk tolerance to the economic pressures of rising input costs, this discussion highlights the need for localized food systems and policy reform to support small farms. Perfect for anyone curious about where their food comes from, this video offers a raw, authentic look at dairy farming through the eyes of a seasoned farmer. Don’t miss Kevin’s stories and wisdom—subscribe and share to support local agriculture!Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowvSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In my interview with Owen, we explored Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, driven by my long-standing curiosity and regret for not investing earlier when Bitcoin was pennies—now over $100,000. Owen explained crypto as digital assets traded peer-to-peer on blockchains, secured by cryptography, with Bitcoin standing out due to its first-mover advantage, fixed 21-million-coin supply, and decentralized, open-source nature that prevents backdoors or control. He contrasted Bitcoin’s “hard money” traits—scarcity, durability, and permissionless transactions—with fiat’s inflationary “soft money,” advocating for its potential as a global currency or fiat backing, akin to the internet’s early days with untapped future layers.We discussed Bitcoin’s volatility, driven by four-year halving cycles and global free-market trading, yet stabilizing with adoption. Its security lies in seed phrases enabling access anywhere, empowering self-sovereignty but requiring responsibility, unlike fiat’s third-party reliance. Owen dismissed most altcoins for their centralization, recommended “The Bitcoin Standard” for education, and shared a veteran advisor’s view: a 5% portfolio allocation to Bitcoin (bought at $26,000 in 2023) is a prudent long-term bet, with potential 10X growth to $1 million, fueled by regulatory acceptance and institutional interest, though its volatility demands caution and only investing what one can lose.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownIn this powerful interview, we sit down with JM Fortier, pioneering farmer, author, and founder of The Market Gardener Institute, to uncover the truth about our food system.We dive deep into how "Big Agriculture" has co-opted the organic label, diluting its meaning and misleading consumers in pursuit of profit. JM explains why hydroponically grown produce in warehouses can legally be called "organic," and why this severs the vital connection between healthy soil and healthy food.But it's not all bad news. JM provides a hopeful roadmap for how we can take back control of our food supply by supporting human-scale, local agriculture that prioritizes nutrition, community, and ecology over corporate profits.KEY TOPICS WE DISCUSS:0:00 - Our Personal Journeys to Real Food2:45 - How JM Went from Vegetarian to Sustainable Farmer7:15 - The Shocking Moment Big Ag Hijacked "Organic"12:30 - The 90% Nutrition Difference: Local vs. Store-Bought18:10 - The "Free-Range" Lie and Marketing Opacity25:45 - Why He's Skeptical of Large-Scale "Regenerative" Ag32:15 - Can Small Farms Really Feed Cities?38:00 - The Vegan Debate & Animals in a Ecological System45:20 - Biggest Setbacks & Advice for New Farmers55:10 - Is Food a Human Right? A Deep Conversation1:02:30 - The Community "Bell" Story That Says It AllABOUT JM FORTIER:JM Fortier is a world-renowned organic farmer, author, and educator. Through his bestselling book, "The Market Gardener," and his online institute, he has inspired and trained tens of thousands of people to start successful, profitable small-scale farms using regenerative practices. His work proves that you can grow incredible food and make a living on just a few acres, without relying on heavy machinery or harmful chemicals.Watch Homegrown Season 2 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In the interview, Margaret Johnson, MLA for Carleton Victoria and former New Brunswick Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Fisheries, discusses her passion for supporting agriculture despite not being a farming expert. A lifelong resident of Carlton County, she emphasizes the challenges farmers face, including regulatory hurdles, biosecurity requirements, and federal-provincial jurisdictional conflicts, which complicate food production. She highlights the struggle to achieve food security in New Brunswick, noting that the province is only 7-9% self-sufficient in fruits and vegetables, with a heavy reliance on potatoes, blueberries, and apples. Johnson advocates for increasing local food production through controlled environment agriculture and cooperatives to ensure consistent supply, but acknowledges barriers like high costs for land, inputs, and heating.She addresses the aging farmer demographic (average age 56) and the difficulty young farmers face entering the industry due to land costs and lack of succession. Johnson suggests cooperative models, such as grazing agreements, and reforms to programs like FLIP to make farmland more accessible. She expresses frustration with grocery chains prioritizing imports over local produce and supports a grocery code of conduct to ensure fair pricing. On food security, she notes a 25% increase in food bank usage, particularly among seniors, and criticizes funding cuts to organizations like Greener Village, which teach food preservation and cooking skills to reduce waste (58% of food is wasted nationally). Johnson emphasizes empowering communities through education, community gardens, and rebuilding neighborhood trust to foster self-sufficiency. She also touches on regulatory barriers for small-scale producers, like raw milk sales, and the need for legislative changes to support local markets while maintaining safety standards. Throughout, she stresses collaboration, non-partisanship, and practical solutions to enhance New Brunswick’s agricultural and food security landscape.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In this interview, Canadian MP Richard Bragdon—Conservative member for Tobique-Mactaquac and Shadow Minister for Rural Development—shares his journey into politics, his passion for empowering rural communities, and his vision for Canada’s future. A vocal advocate for small farmers, Bragdon discusses the need to reduce regulatory burdens, lower taxes, and unleash the economic potential of rural Canada in agriculture, natural resources, and energy. He critiques ineffective policies like carbon taxes and calls for common-sense governance that supports hardworking Canadians. Grounded in his faith and rural upbringing, Bragdon emphasizes limited government, individual freedom, and bipartisan collaboration, ensuring the voices of his constituents are heard in Ottawa. Whether addressing food security, interprovincial trade barriers, or the importance of local farming, his message is clear: Canada’s prosperity lies in empowering its people, not overregulating them.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In my conversation with Matt Wilson—dog trainer, hunter, and small business owner—we covered everything from training techniques to the challenges of modern life. Matt spoke candidly about running a dog training business during tough economic times, the emotional weight of working with troubled animals, and the importance of structure and discipline when communicating with dogs. Our talk shifted into hunting, where Matt emphasized ethical practices, a connection to the land, and sourcing meat sustainably. We also tackled Canadian gun laws, expressing our shared frustration with policies that penalize responsible owners while ignoring root causes like mental health.The interview dug into broader themes like self-sufficiency, the decline of local economies, and the erosion of traditional skills. We reflected on the importance of raising resilient kids, staying connected to nature, and building real community in a world that increasingly pushes isolation and convenience. Matt shared how routine, gratitude, and hard work have helped him navigate modern pressures. We ended on a high note—with a tour of the farm and a gift of homemade bacon—grounding our shared values in the simple joys of a hands-on life.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

This week I sat down with Megan, my massage therapist and a wealth of knowledge when it comes to the human body, energy, and healing. We went way beyond the typical “back rub” conversation and got into the real stuff—how massage therapy is actual therapeutic work, what our muscles are holding onto (physically and emotionally), and why stress shows up in the body whether we realize it or not.We talked about everything from posture and chronic pain to that weird but real moment when a massage triggers a memory you didn’t even know was buried. Megan also explained Reiki in a way that made it make sense—how energy, spirituality, and healing all overlap, even if we don’t always have the language to describe it. Plus, she just finished a course in lymphatic drainage (which I had so many questions about), and it blew my mind how something so gentle can do so much.If you've ever been curious about what your body might be trying to tell you—or you’ve brushed off massage therapy as just a feel-good luxury—this convo might change your mind. Or at the very least, it’ll get you thinking a little differently about tension, touch, and the deeper work of healing.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In my interview with Will, we dove into his passion for growing rare and unusual crops—plants you won’t find in a typical grocery store. Will emphasized that there's more to life than the familiar and convenient, tying his philosophy to the idea that change is the only constant. For him, cultivating unique varieties like the “Flaco Bianco” isn’t just about food—it’s about embracing transformation, discovery, and sharing something deeper with the land and others.Will told stories that were as unconventional and wild as the plants he grows, including his legendary encounter with the so-called “angry goose.” This wasn’t just a one-off incident—it became a symbol of the chaos, humor, and occasional danger that comes with living close to nature. His recounting was animated and personal, blending exaggerated humor with a kind of rural wisdom. At one point, we both laughed about how a goose essentially staged a full-blown territorial standoff with him, chasing him across the yard and refusing to back down. Will’s storytelling made it clear that the goose wasn’t just an antagonist—it was a reminder that animals, like people, have their own personalities and boundaries.Throughout the conversation, Will’s tone shifted fluidly between philosophical, comedic, and heartfelt. He shared candid moments of frustration and joy, especially about how his environment—both plants and animals—pushes him to adapt. He sees the land not as something to control, but as something to be in relationship with. Whether he was talking about fruit cultivars or furious waterfowl, everything came back to a core belief: life is unpredictable, but it’s richer when you embrace what you can’t fully understand or tame.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

In my interview with Sara, she shared her inspiring journey from a burnout in veterinary medicine to starting a farm from scratch with no prior experience. Like many first-generation farmers, she and her partner Stephen were driven by a sense of urgency during the COVID pandemic, when empty grocery store shelves made them question the reliability of the food system. They began with just a little gardening experience and a desire for self-reliance, but within a few months, they had purchased a farm in New Brunswick and jumped in headfirst.Sara described how their approach was shaped by necessity and resourcefulness. Stephen eventually returned to full-time work to financially support the farm, while Sara took on most of the farming herself, with help from community members and family. Despite a steep learning curve and minimal initial investment—like a \$500 four-wheeler with no brakes—they’ve expanded their operation to include high tunnels, cold storage, and infrastructure improvements that help extend their growing season and improve crop quality. Sara emphasized the importance of adapting their investments based on practical needs—like the decision to invest in a walking cooler after losing too much produce without one.We also spoke about the broader issue of succession in farming. Sara noted that around 40% of Canadian farmers are expected to retire in the next nine years, and without younger generations stepping up, that could leave a massive gap in the food system. She acknowledged the high rates of burnout and mental health challenges in agriculture and stressed the importance of building a farm that’s physically and emotionally sustainable. Her own experience—dealing with exhaustion, storms, and the demands of being a one-woman show—highlighted how crucial it is to learn to work with your body, invest in efficiency, and pace yourself for the long haul.Through all of it, Sara remains passionate and hopeful. Her story reflects not only resilience and grit but a deepening understanding that farming is more than a profession—it’s a lifestyle. She spoke with honesty about the highs and lows, sharing lessons learned, mistakes made, and the importance of community and creativity in making small-scale farming viable.Leave a Like and Subscribe if you enjoyed! Subscribe! - https://bit.ly/SubscribeToHomegrownWatch Homegrown Season 1 Now! https://www.homegrownshow.ca/comingsoonJoin Patreon!https://www.patreon.com/homegrownshow↓↓ See more ↓↓https://instagram.com/homegrownshowhttps://www.tiktok.com/@homegrownshowhttps://www.facebook.com/cummingsbenjhttps://www.patreon.com/homegrownshowSupport Us At: http://homegrownshow.ca/

"Essential oils" have been something that were a part of my life for about 20 years. They were something that my mom introduced me to when I was a lot younger, burning things like peppermint first thing in the morning to wake us up and then using things like Theives oil to ward off sickness. But it wasn't until into my university experience in academia when I studied more microbiology and virology and really tried to learn about how those oils interact with our bodies, that I gained a better understanding of what "essential oils" are.

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 My journey brings me to Ottawa, ON to visit a friend, see parliament hill, and I get a bike! IG: @cummingsbenj FB: @cummingsbenj Support me at:  benjcummings.com

Last time I made it as far as Edmundston, NB. This time I make it to Quebec City and try to decipher a french WiFi password to get internet access... IG: @cummingsbenj FB: @cummingsbenj Support me at:  benjcummings.com

If you've been following me for a while you may already know this story! But here is my 2018-19 trek across the country. Leg 1: Woodstock to Edmundston, NB.  IG: @cummingsbenj FB: @cummingsbenj Support me at:  benjcummings.com