The Foodscaper Podcast

In this episode, Amelia Barker from Portland Edible Gardens shares insights into managing a long-standing, client-centered edible landscaping business, focusing on systems for soil fertility, client relationships, and team organization. Discover how they keep gardens thriving for over a decade and deliver high-quality service sustainably.Learn more about Amelia and Portland Edible Gardens: www.portlandediblegardens.com  🍎 Join the Foodscaper Membership to hear the full episode! Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!   🍎 Learn More and Apply for The Foodscaper Cohort here Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, Andrew Millison, a permaculture educator and designer, shares his journey from landscape design to teaching permaculture at Oregon State University. He discusses the importance of community impact, the balance between personal expression and design in gardening, and the unique aspects of OSU's permaculture program. Millison also addresses common misunderstandings about permaculture, the role of technology in land restoration, and the significance of the Earth Repair Fund in supporting ecological projects worldwide. He emphasizes the abundance that can be cultivated in our backyards and the transformative power of permaculture in reconnecting people with the land.Learn more about Andrew: www.andrewmillison.com/   🍎 We just HAD to give this full episode to you for free. Join The Foodscaper Membership to get all the complete episodes. Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!JOIN HERE: thefoodscaper.com/membership  🍎 Learn More and Apply for The Foodscaper Cohort: thefoodscaper.com/cohort Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

Most people think of landscaping as just planting things. In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, Gabriel Hahn, install manager and the 'drummer' of the Custom Foodscaping band, reveals to host Matt Lebon how water, flow, and integrity are the heartbeats of real garden design. If you want to turn water management into impactful, beautiful landscapes—and love staying chill through the chaos—this episode is your blueprint.Gabriel shares the stories behind creating some of the most stunning rain gardens, from the impact of a simple rain shower to cutting-edge layout tricks that save time and effort. You’ll discover how mastering water flow and using everyday tools like yardsticks and electrical tape can make your projects more precise—and more fun. Get inside the minds of a seasoned pro as Gabriel breaks down lessons learned from managing irrigation mishaps to evolving his approach with machine work—ensuring your landscapes are resilient and effective. Learn more about Gabriel and Custom Foodscaping: customfoodscapes.com/about-1  🍎 Join the Foodscaper Membership to hear the full episode, where Gabriel speaks on the core values that drive effective teamwork and the importance of having a strong ethical foundation in collaborative environments, and more! Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!JOIN HERE: thefoodscaper.com/membership 🍎 Learn More and Apply for The Foodscaper Cohort 2026: thefoodscaper.com/cohortFollow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of the Foodscaper podcast, host Matt Lebon and guest Shlomy Goldman discuss the journey of creating Regenerative Foodscapes in Rhode Island. Shlomy shares his unique path into foodscaping, the challenges of sourcing plants, the importance of subcontractors. The conversation also touches on innovative landscaping techniques, such as micro clover lawns, and the significance of community and networking in building a successful business. Learn more about Regenerative Foodscapes and Shlomy: regenerativefoodscapes.com/about  🍎 Join the Foodscaper Membership to hear the full episode, where Shlomy speaks on the spiritual connection he feels to his work and Judaism, he shares a rap he wrote about urban gardening, showcasing the creativity and passion that drives his work, and more! Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!JOIN HERE: thefoodscaper.com/membership  🍎 Learn More and Apply for The Foodscaper Cohort 2026: thefoodscaper.com/cohort Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon and guest Bailey Van Tassel discuss the evolution of kitchen gardening, the importance of defining one's niche in the gardening industry, and the strategies for building a successful gardening business. Bailey shares her journey from designing small kitchen gardens to managing large estate projects, emphasizing the significance of transparency in pricing and the value of collaboration with subcontractors. They also touch on the importance of personal experience in gardening, the design elements that elevate garden spaces, and the release of Bailey's book, 'Kitchen Garden Living.'Learn more about Bailey: baileyvantassel.com/   🍎 We just HAD to give this full episode to you for free. Join The Foodscaper Membership to get all the complete episodes. Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!JOIN HERE: thefoodscaper.com/membership Join The Foodscaper Conference 2026: thefoodscaper.com/conference Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of the Foodscaper podcast, host Matt Lebon sits down with Daryl Lindsey, founder of YardFarmer, to discuss sustainable landscaping, rainwater harvesting, and building a supportive work culture. Daryl shares her journey from marketing to founding YardFarmer, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and ethical business practices. They delve into team management, profit sharing, and the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining work-life balance.  🍎 We just HAD to give this full episode to you for free. Join The Foodscaper Membership to get all the complete episodes. Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!Join The Foodscaper Conference 2026 | Feb 11-13: thefoodscaper.com/conference Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, Matt Lebon explores the concept of no-dig gardening with the world-renown Charles Dowding. A British gardener and environmentalist, Dowding has been a leading proponent of organic and no-dig gardening since 1982. He's written 12 books on the subject, including No Dig: Nurture Your Soil to Grow Better Vegetables With Low Effort. Charles shares how his propensity for sowing on a waxing moon, what spiritual composting means to him, and companion planting. Learn more about Charles and no-dig gardening: charlesdowding.co.uk/  🍎 We just HAD to give this full episode to you for free. Join The Foodscaper Membership to get all the complete episodes. Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!JOIN HERE: thefoodscaper.com/membership Join The Foodscaper Conference 2026: thefoodscaper.com/conference Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Honeydew by ⁠No Bill Dill⁠ | Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, Matt Lebon explores the world of edible landscaping with Alec LePoidevin, the owner of Fresh Roots in Wisconsin. Alec shares how his curiosity for healthy, organic living led him to creating Fresh Roots, and sharing his passion for landscaping, organic gardening, teaching, and sustainability with the community.  We delve into learning on the job, how to build a fence, tools and techniques that changed the game for Alec, new artistic methods to beautify spaces without breaking the bank, and which influences inspire him to dig deeper into edible landscaping. 🍎 Join The Foodscaper Membership to get the complete episode.Members receive direct feedback on your work, live calls, Pro Talks recordings and access to our professional learning library. First month is free!Join The Foodscaper Conference 2026: thefoodscaper.com/conference Follow The Foodscaper on ⁠Instagram⁠ and ⁠FacebookTitle music: Miami by ⁠Party of Vibe⁠ Produced by ⁠Rachel Kaplan⁠

What does it really take to build a strong, reliable, and motivated crew?Erik Ohlsen—founder of Permaculture Artisans and author of The Regenerative Landscaper —pulls back the curtain on what he's learned over two decades of growing his mission-driven company. Whether you’re hiring your first employee or managing a growing team, listen to learn how to hire and retain the best people for the job. Erik covers:What to look for when building your teamHow to hire (and keep) great peopleWhat to pay and how to know when you're financially ready to hireScheduling, time management, and navigating last-minute curveballsThe balance between hiring for skill vs. training on the jobInterview questions that reveal true characterSpotting red flags and assessing energetic fitCreative ways to care for and retain your peopleThe leadership lessons that shaped his company cultureThis is the conversation every edible landscaper or permaculture entrepreneur needs to hear—because building a resilient business starts with building a resilient team.Want more support as you build your ecological edible landscaping company? Join our membership!This is where you can get feedback on your work, join live coaching calls with Matt Lebon, and access a vast library of training videos to up your career in foodscaping. Get your first month free at thefoodscaper.com/membershipWant to join our annual meeting of the foodscaper minds? Join our annual Foodscaper Conference. Head to thefoodscaper.com/conference to learn more!

Are you considering a career change into ecological edible landscaping? Today’s guest on The Foodscaper Podcast made a brave jump from a career in public policy to opening her own foodscaping company in Tacoma, Washington.I think you’ll be inspired by one of our community’s superstar entrepreneurs, Anna Markee, owner of Markee Ecological Garden Design. Anna shares her business origin story plus advice for landing government contracts from a public policy insider. Tune in! Listen to the COMPLETE episode when you join The Foodscaper Membership - the first month is free! Come find your people and get support to grow a successful foodscaping biz. Join: thefoodscaper.com/membership 

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, we're joined by Amber McClain, the installation department head and project manager at Nashville Foodscapes. From starting as a crew member to becoming a worker owner, Amber shares the nitty-gritty of managing installs during Tennessee's hot summers, keeping her crew motivated, and the strategies that ensure project success.Amber offers her perspective on leading efficient installs that don’t burn crew members out. She talks about how Nashville Foodscapes designs, installs, and maintains edible and ecological landscapes as a worker-owned business.Tune in to learn about the systems and teamwork that make Nashville Foodscapes one of the most long-standing companies in the industry. Listen to the complete episode when you join The Foodscaper Membership - first month is free!When you join the membership, you join a supportive community of edible landscaping pros at all stages. Receive feedback on your work. Join our live calls. Access a library of trainings for foodscapers, by foodscapers. Find your people!JOIN US at thefoodscaper.com/membership

This week on The Foodscaper I sat down with Lauren Craig of Humble Hive Consulting — a designer and consultant who’s helping people reimagine their relationship with land through edible and ecological landscapes.Lauren has built a business that roots into her local Ohio community but also stretches far beyond her local geography. From remote design and social media to mentorship and storytelling, she’s finding creative ways to connect with clients and landscapes across the map.In our conversation, we dive into: ✨ How she built her business & finds clients ✨ The challenges (and magic) of remote design ✨ Tools she uses to bring landscapes to life from afar ✨ The human side of client relationships ✨ Mentorship, education, and lessons only the land can teachIf you’ve ever wondered how  to thrive as an edible landscape designer — or what it takes to build a design business rooted in design work and creativity — this episode is for you.Get the complete episode when you join The Foodscaper Membership. Join for free at thefoodscaper.com/membership. There’s more gold in the second half!

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, Matt interviews Mike Bennett, co-owner and president of Backyard Eats, an edible landscaping business based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mike shares the inspiring story of how his partner Chris Mattingly founded the company in 2016 and how they aim to share the magic of homegrown food. They discuss the company's core services, which include design, build, and maintenance of food-producing spaces, and delve into the challenges of scaling and iterating their business model. Mike also talks about his personal journey from finance and music to becoming an integral part of Backyard Eats. Tune in to learn about the design principles, educational resources, and client engagement strategies that make Backyard Eats successful, as well as Mike's insights on overcoming common challenges in the edible landscaping industry.Listen to the complete episode when you join The Foodscaper Membership - first month is free!When you join the membership, you join a supportive community of edible landscaping pros at all stages. Receive feedback on your work. Join our live calls. Access a library of trainings. For foodscapers, by foodscapers.JOIN US at thefoodscaper.com/membership

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, Matt speaks with Lucy Imbach, founder of Island Harvest, the only edible landscaping business on Nantucket Island. Lucy shares her background in environmentalism and food systems, and discusses her journey from farming to starting Island Harvest. The conversation covers the intricacies of building and maintaining an edible landscaping business in a unique locale, including crop planning, carpentry skills, and client relations. Lucy also delves into the advantages and challenges of operating in a place with a highly fluctuating population and a strong culture of garden maintenance. Additionally, Lucy offers insights into her use of local resources and her process for planning and executing complex garden designs.Join The Foodscaper Membership for the complete episode! First month is free. Plus, get feedback on your work, network with other pros and access our training library -made for foodscapers, by foodscapers. Join at thefoodscaper.com/membership.Learn more about Luci's work: https://www.ackislandharvest.com/

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, we explore the world of edible landscaping with Nate Fournier, the owner of Reimagined Roots. Nate shares how his background in engineering influenced his journey into permaculture and food scaping, starting from a dream in 2014 to establishing his business during the COVID-19 pandemic. We delve into the philosophy behind Reimagined Roots, their comprehensive services in transforming grasslands into abundant ecosystems, and the importance of creating 'Human Habitats.' Nate also talks about lessons learned from his previous career, the strategic establishment of a community-oriented eco hub, and the critical role of radical candor and continuous learning within his growing team. Tune in for insights on integrating technology without compromising ecological integrity and the inspiring story of dedication, long-term planning, and community building in the permaculture industry.

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, staff member Lindsay Wolff interviews Matt Lebon, founder of Custom Foodscaping, about the various aspects of managing and growing a foodscaping business. They delve into the importance of company culture, practical systems for daily operations, and effective communication tools like Slack and Clickup. Matt discusses the challenges and strategies associated with hiring, firing, and retaining employees while emphasizing the significance of acknowledging hard work and fostering a supportive work environment. The conversation also touches on balancing personal life as a new parent, maintaining mental health, and the importance of building long-term client relationships through maintenance contracts. Practical advice is shared for beginners on essential tools, equipment, and financial planning in the foodscaping industry.

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon welcomes Chia-Ming Ro, owner of Coastal Homestead. They discuss Chia-Ming's transition from a finance career to becoming a foodscaper, focusing on designing, installing, and maintaining food-producing landscapes. Chia-Ming shares her experiences, including how the pandemic influenced her career change, the benefits of food gardening, and the importance of educating clients. They also cover marketing strategies, the impact of social media, and the evolution of her business model towards content creation and mentorship. The episode is supported by sponsors Epic Gardening and Stark Bros Nursery.00:00 Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast01:05 Introducing Chia-Ming and Coastal Homestead02:21 Chia's Journey from Finance to Foodscaping05:02 The Philosophy of Foodscaping10:31 Balancing Aesthetics and Production13:51 Challenges and Strategies in Foodscaping17:09 The Importance of Client Relationships20:32 Seasonal Refreshes and Maintenance28:55 Focusing on Education and Mentoring29:49 The Educator's Vision30:17 2025 Foodscaper Conference30:58 Stark Brothers Sponsorship31:40 Client Mentorship and Education32:48 Small Business Mentorship34:41 Shifting Business Focus36:51 Design and Installation Insights46:10 Social Media and Marketing Strategies52:14 Curating Clientele and Networking57:21 Future Vision for Foodscaping58:28 Closing Remarks and Podcast OutroCoastal HomesteadStark BrosEpic Gardening

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon chats with Leslie Bennett, founder of Pine House Edible Gardens, about her journey from law to foodscaping. Leslie shares her experiences running a design-build-maintenance company in Oakland, California, and highlights the importance of creating integrated, meaningful landscapes. She discusses her vision for the Black Sanctuary Gardens project, which promotes equity by developing gardens with black women in Oakland. The conversation delves into design principles such as visual balance and foliage contrast, and how these concepts translate into beautiful, functional foodscapes. Leslie's passion for connecting people with the land and fostering diverse, inclusive gardening spaces shines through in this inspiring episode. Sponsored by Epic Gardening and Stark Bros Nursery.00:00 Podcast episode with Leslie Bennett01:15 Meet Leslie Bennett01:38 Leslie Bennett's Background and Pine House Edible Gardens02:44 Team Dynamics and Integrative Approach05:13 Challenges and Philosophy in Garden Design06:35 Inspiration and Vision for Edible Landscaping10:07 Personal Journey: From Law to Gardening14:43 Starting Pine House Edible Gardens16:58 Learning and Growing in the Field20:53 Collaborative Design and Team Expertise25:50 Balancing Vision and Business Growth27:12 Navigating Hardscape Challenges28:04 Introducing Black Sanctuary Gardens31:15 Equity Pricing Framework45:35 The Importance of Foliage Contrast52:17 Finding Inspiration in PlantsPine House Edible GardensLeslie’s Books

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Leban talks with Andrew Tyrrell, owner and operator of Black Rock Garden Structures in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Andrew shares his journey from starting a landscaping company at twelve to specializing in custom enclosed cedar vegetable gardens. He highlights the significance of Northern White Cedar, his carpentry process, composting expertise, and the value of building relationships with clients. The discussion also covers Andrew's viral Instagram success, the importance of perseverance in business, and advice for those looking to enter the foodscaping industry. Sponsored by Epic Gardening and Stark Bros. 00:00 Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast01:13 Introducing Andrew01:13 Introducing Andrew Terrell of Black Rock Garden Structures01:47 The Journey of Black Rock Garden Structures04:07 Expanding Services and Vermicomposting04:56 From Landscaping to Specialized Gardening08:09 The Impact of Composting and Community Outreach12:26 Building a Skilled and Passionate Team15:45 Designing Custom Gardens21:07 Sourcing and Working with Northern White Cedar26:57 Exploring Soil and Composting Techniques30:23 Starting Park City Compost Initiative31:21 The 2025 Foodscaper Conference32:52 Building Raised Beds: From Lumber to Installation35:25 Going Viral on Instagram40:12 Navigating Client Consultations and Costs47:00 Advice for Aspiring Foodscapers50:36 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeStark Bros: www.starkbros.comEpic Gardening: www.epicgardening.comVegetable Gardens and Composting | Raised Gardens and Planter Boxes: https://blackrockgardenstructures.comEarth Matter: https://earthmatter.org/

In this episode of the Foodscaper podcast, Matt Lebon sits down with Kevin Espiritu, the founder of Epic Gardening, to discuss his journey from starting a blog to building a successful gardening business. Kevin shares insights on the evolution of his gardening methods, the importance of collaboration, and the challenges and strategies behind scaling his business. They also delve into topics such as the benefits of metal raised beds, the introduction of Botanical Seed Co. into the Epic universe, and the potential of an Epic garden installer program. The conversation emphasizes the significance of making thoughtful business decisions aligned with core values and mission statements, all while inspiring more people to grow their own food. This episode is sponsored by Stark Bros and Epic Gardening. 00:00 Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast 01:16 Introducing Kevin 01:16 Introducing Kevin Espiritu of Epic Gardening 01:54 Kevin's Journey into Gardening 05:26 Scaling Epic Gardening 08:22 The Espiritu Method for Business Efficiency 10:19 Collaboration and Team Building 15:59 Designing Kevin's New Garden 20:57 Exploring Permaculture and Edible Landscaping 23:26 Epic Gardening Products and Innovations 27:18 Exploring Market Demand for Gardening Services 29:36 The Rise of Birdies Metal Garden Beds 31:24 Benefits of Tall Garden Beds 33:08 Importance of Drip Irrigation 36:51 Botanical Interests: Seeds and Business Insights 42:21 Future of Gardening and Market Opportunities 50:06 Fun Gardening Experiments and Conclusion Epic Gardening: Simple, Practical Gardening Tips Epic Gardening - YouTube Stark Bros JOIN US FOR THE FOODSCAPER CONFERENCE FEB 12 & 13, 2025 Ready to turn your passion for edible landscapes into a profitable business? Join us at The Foodscaper Conference February 12 & 13th! Here’s what you can expect at this two-day, online conference: Two jam-packed days of online presentations, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions Find your pro foodscaping family and mentors, connect with peers, and leave with new connections Learn how to make a living as a pro-foodscaper from experts around the country who have been where you are Join interactive workshops & breakout sessions Deep-dive into specialty topics with experienced workshop leaders like foodscape design, installations, business management, and much more Learn more and register here at www.thefoodscaper.com/conference- use code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off your all-access ticket!

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon interviews Meredith Sheperd, founder of Love & Carrots in Washington, D.C. Meredith shares the journey of her business from its humble beginnings in 2011 to a team of 26 employees. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of urban farming, pricing strategies, the importance of team-building and giving feedback, and maintaining a business during the off-season. The episode highlights the essentials of being organized, fostering leadership within the team, and staying resilient in the face of demanding work conditions. This episode is supported by garden supply sponsor Epic Gardening and fruit tree nursery Stark Bros. 00:00 Introduction to Meredith Shepard and Love and Carrots 03:00 Meredith's Background and Journey 04:46 Defining Urban Farming and Foodscaping 05:34 The Origin of Love and Carrots 07:02 Client Stories and Personal Reflections 07:54 Mentorship and Networking in Urban Farming 14:44 Building and Managing a Team 17:42 Skills and Qualities for Foodscaping 20:55 Organizational Systems and Tools 28:21 Pricing and Estimating in Foodscaping 32:27 Spreadsheet and Estimating Systems 32:56 Maintenance and Time Tracking 33:41 Handling Invoices and Client Communication 34:58 Pricing Models for Maintenance 37:30 Challenges of Early Business Years 40:27 Diversifying Services Beyond Vegetable Gardens 44:20 Hiring and Retention Strategies 53:33 Winter Work and Seasonal Adjustments 57:12 Reflections and Future Excitements Love & Carrots Stark Bros Epic Gardening JOIN US FOR THE FOODSCAPER CONFERENCE FEB 12 & 13, 2025 Ready to turn your passion for edible landscapes into a profitable business? Join us at The Foodscaper Conference February 12 & 13th! Here’s what you can expect at this two-day, online conference: Two jam-packed days of online presentations, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions Find your pro foodscaping family and mentors, connect with peers, and leave with new connections Learn how to make a living as a pro-foodscaper from experts around the country who have been where you are Join interactive workshops & breakout sessions Deep-dive into specialty topics with experienced workshop leaders like foodscape design, installations, business management, and much more Learn more and register here at www.thefoodscaper.com/conference- use code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off your all-access ticket!

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon engages with Linda and Luke Black Elk to explore the profound connections between indigenous practices, foodscaping, and plant relationships. They discuss their personal journeys, rooted in their heritage, and the importance of foraging, traditional seeds, and ecological landscapes. The conversation highlights initiatives supporting indigenous communities, the significance of re-indigenizing spaces, and traditional farming techniques like nixtamalization. Emphasis is placed on decolonizing diets, expanding palates beyond colonized foods, and integrating traditional knowledge with contemporary practices. The episode also touches on inspiring restoration efforts, the role of song and music in cultural traditions, and includes insights on edible landscaping for future generations. This episode, sponsored by Stark Bros and Epic Gardening is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to turn their love for gardening into a foodscaping career.  00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:13 Introducing Kevin 02:09 Honoring Indigenous Lands 03:49 Linda's Journey with Plants 06:47 Luke's Passion for Foraging 08:41 Teaching and Sharing Plant Knowledge 14:20 Re-Indigenizing Spaces 38:42 Decolonizing Our Diets 47:30 The Role of Song and Dance 51:56 Closing Thoughts and Inspirations Agricultural Hero: Linda Black Elk | One Earth IAC American Indian Foods Producer Directory Mní Wičóni | Health Circle | One Earth North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems Makoce Ikikcupi (Land Recovery) – A Project of Reparative Justice Indigenous Environmental Network | Respecting and Adhering to Indigenous Knowledge and Natural Law JOIN US FOR THE FOODSCAPER CONFERENCE FEB 12 & 13, 2025 Ready to turn your passion for edible landscapes into a profitable business? Join us at The Foodscaper Conference February 12 & 13th! Here’s what you can expect at this two-day, online conference: Two jam-packed days of online presentations, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions Find your pro foodscaping family and mentors, connect with peers, and leave with new connections Learn how to make a living as a pro-foodscaper from experts around the country who have been where you are Join interactive workshops & breakout sessions Deep-dive into specialty topics with experienced workshop leaders like foodscape design, installations, business management, and much more Learn more and register here at www.thefoodscaper.com/conference - use code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off your all-access ticket!

In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon interviews Joe Lamp'l, also known as Joe Gardener, about his journey from discovering gardening as a child to becoming a leading figure in the horticulture and foodscaping industries. The discussion covers Joe's ventures including his online gardening academy, 'Growing a Greener World' show, and podcast. Joe shares insights from his career transitions, the influence of Atlanta as a foodscaping hub, and the inspiration behind his home vegetable garden. Key topics include garden and soil design, ethical gardening practices, and the integration of edible and native plants. Joe and Matt emphasize the importance of education, patience, and maintaining a work-life balance. The conversation also touches on mental health, with Joe highlighting his practice of taking August off to recharge. Concluding with reflections on the evolving role of gardens in supporting wildlife and tackling environmental issues, the episode is a comprehensive guide to blending passion with profession in the gardening world. This episode, sponsored by Epic Gardening and Stark Bros is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to turn their love for gardening into a successful career. 00:00 Introduction to the Foodscaper Podcast 01:08 Meet Joe Lample: A Leader in Gardening 01:54 Joe's Journey into Gardening 04:20 From Corporate to Gardening TV Host 08:32 Launching a Successful Gardening Show 12:50 Joe's Home Garden Design 13:57 Building Raised Bed Gardens 21:32 Soil Composition and Maintenance 26:59 Locally Sourced Soil and Compost 32:20 Educating Clients and Building Trust 34:14 Memorable Garden Visits 38:03 Blended Gardens and Edible Landscaping 40:52 Trends and Education in Foodscaping 45:06 Encouraging New Gardeners 50:18 Maintaining Work-Life Balance 55:26 Joe's Educational Resources Joe Lamp'l | About joe gardener® | Gardening Podcast & TV Host Gardening Podcast | Organic Gardener | joe gardener® (1) joegardenerTV - YouTube Growing a Greener World - Growing A Greener World® JOIN US FOR THE FOODSCAPER CONFERENCE FEB 12 & 13, 2025 Ready to turn your passion for edible landscapes into a profitable business? Join us at The Foodscaper Conference February 12 & 13th! Here’s what you can expect at this two-day, online conference: Two jam-packed days of online presentations, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions Find your pro foodscaping family and mentors, connect with peers, and leave with new connections Learn how to make a living as a pro-foodscaper from experts around the country who have been where you are Join interactive workshops & breakout sessions Deep-dive into specialty topics with experienced workshop leaders like foodscape design, installations, business management, and much more Learn more and register at www.thefoodscaper.com/conference- use code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off your all-access ticket!

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon sits down with Erik Ohlsen, the founder of Permaculture Artisans, to explore his journey from activism to launching his business in 2005. Eric shares the early challenges he faced, such as operating without a contractor's license, and how he grew the company to a 23-member team that provides a full range of ecological landscaping services, from design to maintenance. The conversation covers key topics like building strong client relationships, navigating project mobilization costs, and incorporating spiritual reciprocity with the land—drawing on influences from Indigenous and Nordic traditions. Erik also discusses the upkeep of demonstration gardens, strategies for managing business growth, and the role of spiritual values in today’s world. Additional insights include practical advice on estimating project costs, handling change orders, and the transformative impact of regenerative practices on urban planning and housing. Erik's book, The Regenerative Landscaper, serves as a foundation for the discussion, offering practical tips on ecological design and sustainable practices. Tune in to discover Erik’s vision for a regenerative future. This episode, sponsored by Epic Gardening, is packed with specific and valuable advice for anyone looking to turn their love of gardening and earth stewardship into a successful career.  JOIN US FOR THE FOODSCAPER CONFERENCE FEB 12 & 13, 2025 Ready to turn your passion for edible landscapes into a profitable business? Join us at The Foodscaper Conference February 12th & 13th! Here’s what you can expect at this two-day, online conference:  Two jam-packed days of online presentations, interactive workshops, and breakout sessions Find your pro foodscaping family and mentors, connect with peers, and leave with new connections Learn how to make a living as a pro-foodscaper from experts around the country who have been where you are Join interactive workshops & breakout sessions Deep-dive into specialty topics with experienced workshop leaders like foodscape design, installations, business management, and much more ⁠Learn more & register here-⁠ Use code PODCAST at checkout for 10% off your ticket! Episode Breakdown: 0:00 Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast 1:24  Introduction to Eric Olson  3:32 Origins of Permaculture Artisans 6:20 Early Challenges and Growth 7:23 Current Projects and Operations 16:00 Spiritual Connection to the Land 29:45 Insights from ‘The Regenerative Landscaper’ 31:00 Managing Growth and Hiring Decisions 36:45 Navigating Change Orders in Projects 44:45 Insights from 'The Regenerative Landscaper' part II 55:11  Future of Regenerative Development 58:20  Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Permaculture Artisans - Design, Build, & Maintenance Home | Erik Ohlsen Regenerative Design and Mentorship | Folk Traditions The Regenerative Landscaper: Design and Build Landscapes That Repair the Environment - Synergetic Press

In this episode of The Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon sits down with Melissa Wilsford from Rustic Hills Garden Company to explore her inspiring journey from stay-at-home mom to thriving foodscaping business owner. Melissa opens up about the evolution of her business, sharing candid insights into the challenges of juggling family responsibilities and entrepreneurship. She also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and professional development. Key moments include Melissa's reflections on reshaping her relationship with money, practical tips for delegating tasks, and strategies for maintaining profitability. Her story showcases the power of starting small, making the most of available resources, and pursuing a passion for foodscaping. This episode, sponsored by Epic Gardening and Stark Brothers Nursery, is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to turn their love for gardening into a successful career. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast 01:15 Introduction to Rustic Hills Garden Company 02:02 The Evolution of a Foodscaping Business 04:44 Balancing Work and Family Life 06:11 From Passion to Profession 10:15 The Importance of Edible Landscaping 16:42 Learning and Growing in the Industry 26:22 Starting with What You Have 27:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Business 28:11 Finding Your Niche Market 29:26 Starting Small and Staying Profitable 32:39 Balancing Family and Business 35:22 Money Mindset and Financial Growth 40:54 Practical Tips for Profit Margins 44:03 Hiring and Team Management 48:11 Embracing Challenges and Growth 57:03 Future Aspirations and Work-Life Balance 59:01 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Rustic Hills Garden Co

Special thanks to Epic Gardening for sponsoring this episode! In this episode of the Foodscaper Podcast, host Matt Lebon engages in a captivating conversation with Colin McCrate, founder and lead farmer of Seattle Urban Farm Company. Colin shares the inspiring story behind the company's origins, starting with a single truck and low-budget gardening methods, and scaling up to become a leading name in the urban farming landscape. Throughout the discussion, Colin reflects on the evolution of Seattle Urban Farm Co., from gaining media attention and managing large projects to refining their services and focusing on maintenance. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the significance of local food, sustainable gardening practices, and developing pricing strategies that work for diverse client needs. Colin also opens up about balancing the demands of running a business with personal well-being, leveraging educational resources for growth, and marketing strategies that have helped build a trusted brand. The episode dives into topics like learning from mistakes, setting boundaries, and the potential for partnerships between foodscapers and seed companies. As a special highlight, Colin shares details on innovative tools and products, including a unique garden trellis that’s making waves. Tune in for an engaging look at the continuous evolution of urban farming, the lifestyle benefits of foodscaping, and the exciting opportunities ahead. Episode Breakdown: 00:00 – Welcome to the Foodscaper Podcast 00:49 – Introducing Colin McCrate and Seattle Urban Farm Company 02:56 – The Origin Story of Seattle Urban Farm Company 04:00 – Early Challenges and Initial Success 06:31 – Scaling Up: From Simple Gardens to Full Landscapes 12:13 – The Importance of Design and Consultation 16:41 – Educational Background and Inspirations 22:03 – The Evolution of Services and Scaling Back 32:37 – Balancing Urban Farming and Lifestyle 33:30 – Opportunities in Foodscaping 34:38 – Pricing Models for Maintenance and Coaching 35:07 – Data-Driven Maintenance Strategies 37:47 – Learning from Mistakes and Setting Boundaries 40:50 – Marketing and Building Credibility 47:06 – Developing Garden Tools and Products 50:53 – Self-Care and Work-Life Balance 53:14 – Favorite Plants and Seed Companies 56:15 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts Join us for this insightful episode as Colin McCrate shares the journey of building and redefining Seattle Urban Farm Company, offering practical tips and inspiring stories for aspiring foodscapers and seasoned professionals alike. Seattle Urban Farm Company, Garden Trellises, Services Near Me Thanks to Epic Gardening for sponsoring this episode! https://www.epicgardening.com/

The second half of our interview with Solara of Hatchet and Seed.

Matt and Solara from Hatchet & Seed get back to basics and discuss the origin story of the now-veteran foodscaping company from Victoria, BC.

Part 2 of our conversation with Chris Grallert; creating foodscaping jobs, ESOPS, and building good gardens.

Matt and Chris look under the hood of Green City Growers' large operation in the Boston area.

Matt and Brandy talk about some big projects, the small steps to get there, and working with great people at the end of the day.

Matt and Brandy chat about origin stories, permaculture, and resilience in the face of a warming climate.

Katie and Matt continue their conversation about Columbus Foodscapes' second year in business; mistakes, lessons, boundary setting, huge successes, and big dreams.

Matt chats with Katie about being a year 2 Foodscaping business, how she got started, and what excites her most about the word "Foodscaper". 

Plant sourcing and favorite edible perennial veggies are the topics of part 2 of our conversation with Dave.  This episode is brought to you in partnership with Stark Bros Nursery, a great source for edible trees and shrubs as well as education. Check them out here! 

Dave Scandurra of Edible Landscapes of Cape Cod shares his story of getting started in Foodscaping, a journey that includes mowing lawns and being a rockstar (literally). Raised bed construction and plant sourcing are also topics of conversation.  This episode is brought to you in partnership with Stark Bros Nursery, a great source for edible trees and shrubs as well as education. Check them out here! 

Matt and Christiana chat about social media, mission, and of course food! 

Matt and Christiana discuss working with sub-contractors, while designing gardens in California and providing follow-up coaching services. 

Part 2 of our conversation with Jeremy of Nashville Foodscapes. We get into some of the dirt about running a foodscaping business, from budgeting for equipment and hiring to self-care and celebration.  Music: My Own Horizon by Audiorezout

Jeremy Lekich of Nashville Foodscapes joins us to discuss Foodscaping our yards and minds and how this experience can be so valuable for all of us in these times of disconnection from our own nature.  Music: My Own Horizon by Audiorezout

Lindsay and Matt from The Foodscaper chat about what this podcast and The Foodscaper are hoping to do, and what it means to Foodscape for a living with some stories and context from Matt's company Custom Foodscaping in St. Louis, MO.  Music: My Own Horizon by Audiorezout