In our latest episode, Jono Frew, a regenerative agriculture coach, joins me, ‘Regen Ray’ Milidoni, to unearth the vital role of soil in sustainable farming and overall health. As we dig deeper, we explore not only the science behind it but also the personal connections and stories that drive the regeneration movement. Dive into this enriching conversation that’s not just about the ground beneath us, but the future ahead of us.
🎧 Listen to this impactful episode, sponsored by Soilconnect.com.au, and take away insights that could change how you see the world beneath your feet.
 Key Takeaways:
– Understanding Beyond Science: Discover why fostering a deep connection with the soil and using our innate senses can tell us more about its health than science currently offers.
– Empowerment through Personal Experience: Learn about Jono’s personal journey from near-death experience to a profound understanding of life, health, and agriculture, and how these insights empower his approach to farming.
– Regeneration as a Mindset: Embrace the idea that regenerative agriculture isn’t just a method but a mindset that requires acknowledging past practices without judgment to foster collaborative and innovative approaches to farming.
Stay tuned, participate in the conversation, and let’s transform our approach to agriculture one podcast at a time. Share your thoughts and spread the word!
Who is Jono Frew?
Jono is a regeneration agriculture coach and educator. He and his team are here to enable farmers to think independently and to get back to the true JOY of growing food and taking full responsibility for choices made.
To help growers build organic matter in their soil, build diversity, utilize natural cycles, infiltrate, and hold onto more water, be more resilient to disease, drought, floods, predatory pests. disturbance events. We aim to do so by motivating, inspiring, facilitating, educating, and asking the BIG and IMPORTANT questions. Leaving you inspired and free from the current constraints to inquire into the areas of operation that CAN be improved by ways some people have never thought possible, Naturally. ​​​​​​​
Reconnecting with Our Roots
In the latest episode of ‘Secrets of the Soil’, hosts Jono Frew and ‘Regen Ray’ Milidoni delve into the foundational principles of regenerative agriculture and why starting with a shovel and our five senses is crucial. As Jono explains, his journey toward regenerative practices began not in classrooms or labs but directly in the field, using basic tools and keen observational skills. This hands-on approach emphasizes a deep connection with the land, allowing farmers to understand and nurture their soil intimately.
The Critical Role of Soil in Health and Farming
Soil is not just an inert substrate but a vibrant, living ecosystem that plays a crucial role in our overall health and the environment. Jono shares his transformations—both personally and professionally—highlighting how his understanding of soil as a habitat full of life changed his approach to farming. Discussing the biological reactions and signs of healthy soil, he compares its necessity to human life as akin to a shark sensing blood in water, underscoring the indispensable nature of vibrant, healthy soil.
Overcoming Challenges with Mindset and Innovation
Both hosts discuss the significant mental health challenges that farmers face, driven by the pressures of modern agricultural demands and economic strains. Jono’s personal recovery from a severe car accident interjects a powerful narrative about the interplay between mindset and physical health. He advocates for a shift in farming practices toward more regenerative methods, emphasizing that reconnecting with the love for farming can catalyze positive changes not just in practices but in personal well-being.
The Art of Storytelling in Agricultural Transformation
Storytelling emerges as a potent tool in spreading the vision of regenerative agriculture. Jono and Ray discuss the importance of creating authentic spaces for farmers and stakeholders to learn and share experiences. By steering clear of judgment and moralizing, they suggest fostering an environment that encourages curious questioning and acknowledges the complexity of nature. This approach allows for diverse ideas and innovative solutions to surface, contributing to a robust agricultural community.
Authentic Spaces for Dialogue and Learning
Building on the theme of fostering open dialogues, Ray explores how to facilitate meaningful change in the farming industry. Jono emphasizes the importance of permission to make mistakes and view failures as essential steps towards progress. Such a culture not only nurtures innovation but also supports farmers in adopting new practices that enhance biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Leveraging Natural Tools and Senses
Highlighting the episode’s focus on using basic tools and natural senses, Ray discusses the importance of experiential learning outdoors. He points out that humans inherently possess the ability to discern what is beneficial for survival. This innate capability should be harnessed not only to interact with but also to revive our agricultural practices. By encouraging farmers to use their senses to observe and interact with the land, there is a hopeful promise of fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the ecological dynamics at play.
Embracing the Soil's Voice
As the episode wraps up, both hosts reiterate the importance of listening to and caring for the soil. With sponsorship from soilconnect.com.au, which supports businesses caring for the soil, the message is clear: fostering a connection with the land is crucial. Jono urges the audience to stay curious and educate themselves about soil health, while Ray invites listeners to reflect on their relationship with the earth and engage in regenerative practices. Through understanding and nurturing our soil, we cultivate a healthier planet for future generations.
