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TitreDateDurée
Finding Your Why: The Deeper Reasons We Grow Chestnuts31 Jul 202500:08:12
What drives you to grow chestnuts—not just in year one, but year ten? In this episode, Melanie revisits a question that keeps surfacing in our orchard, at conferences, and in every email from new growers:

“What’s your why?” Drawing from personal experience and stories from growers like Brad and Sandy Russell, we explore what happens when you follow your reasons all the way down. Plus, Melanie shares a simple, powerful reflection tool you can download to clarify your own path. In this episode, you’ll learn:
  • Why your “why” matters more than your business plan
  • How surface reasons often evolve into deeper ones
  • Real motivations that keep chestnut growers going
  • What to ask yourself when things get hard
  • How to use the 7-question “Find Your Why” exercise
More Resources to Explore


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OffShoot Edition - Advantages of Tree Crops13 Jul 202500:12:01
🎙️ You’re listening to Branching Out: Growing Together, and I’m your host, Melanie Jones.

Today’s solo episode is all about starting with your why—a nod to the wisdom of Simon Sinek, and a principle we live by here at EBB Farms and United Chestnuts. Because when it comes to choosing what to grow—especially tree crops—your reason matters.

Maybe you want to improve your soil. Maybe you want to plant a long-term food source, build a family sanctuary, support wildlife, or leave a legacy that’s nutrient-rich and carbon-smart. Whatever your why, tree crops offer something powerful: a regenerative, perennial path forward. In this episode, I’ll walk you through the most common reasons people are turning to chestnut orchards and tree crops—and share how they connect to broader movements in agroforestry, food security, and land stewardship.

If you’re just starting out—or even just dreaming—this is a great place to begin. 📍 You can read the full blog and explore our other tools and resources at unitedchestnuts.com. Let’s grow something good, together.

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Chestnut Farming & Sustainability with Kathy Dice: Insights from Red Fern Farms30 Nov 202400:35:11
In this episode of "Branching Out Growing Together," we sit down with Kathy Dice, co-founder of Redfern Farms, to explore the transformative potential of chestnut farming. Learn about the benefits of chestnuts as a sustainable crop, the role of agroforestry in combating environmental challenges, and the power of community in farming. From the challenges of startup farming to integrating livestock and wildlife, Kathy shares invaluable lessons for anyone passionate about agriculture and sustainability. Tune in for expert tips, delicious chestnut recipes, and a vision for the future of farming!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Live from Chestnut Growers of Amercia Conference: Tom Wahl Shares Experiences from His Farm29 Nov 202400:26:19
Tom Wahl of Red Fern Farms joins Melanie on the Branching Out: Growing Together podcast live from Chestnut Growers of America and Northern Nut Growers annual conference.  

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President of Chestnut Growers of America, Roger Blackwell Shares His Story29 Nov 202400:56:39
An exciting new addition to the chestnut-loving community! Melanie Jones, a partner at United Chestnuts, and her husband Brad host the "Branching Out" podcast. 

The first guest is Roger Blackwell, President of Chestnut Growers of America and the Michigan-based chestnut cooperative Chestnut Growers, Inc.

Melanie explains, "We launched the podcast to support our industry's growing interest in learning, connecting, and sharing industry-related stories and information from different perspectives. The timing is ideal for this." Subscribe to the weekly blog at unitedchestnuts.com and consider joining the United Chestnuts Community group on Facebook. United Chestnuts sells chestnut trees and chestnuts, of course!

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Exploring the Art and Science of Chestnut Cultivation - James Nave29 Nov 202401:00:41
Join Melanie Jones, the host of the Branching Out podcast, in a captivating conversation with James "Mike" Nave. Uncover the secrets, challenges, and passion behind chestnut cultivation. Subscribe now for more insightful episodes on tree cultivation and horticulture.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Long Time Chestnut Grower, Michael Parks Shares His Wisdom and Perspectives17 Oct 202400:34:46
In this podcast episode with Michael Parks, Melanie, and Michael engage in a lively discussion about the chestnut community and the importance of educating consumers about chestnuts. They highlight the need for ongoing education, noting that there is still much work to be done to increase awareness and consumption, especially among various cultural groups.

They discuss the balance of supply and demand in the chestnut market, emphasizing the complexities of this discussion and much more.

How do you feel about the balance between low-tech and high-tech solutions in your work as a chestnut farmer? 

How do you currently sell your chestnuts without relying heavily on technology? 

How do you approach sustainability in your farming practices? 

Melanie Jones, a partner at United Chestnuts, and her husband Brad host the "Branching Out" podcast. Melanie explains, "The podcast—available on YouTube, Spotify, Audible, and iHeartRadio—supports our industry's growing interest in learning, connecting, and sharing industry-related stories and information from different perspectives.

Subscribe to the weekly blog at unitedchestnuts.com and consider joining the United Chestnuts Community group on Facebook. United Chestnuts sells chestnut trees and chestnuts, of course!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Brad Russell: From Corporate Life to Thriving Chestnut Farmer20 Sep 202400:21:24
Join host Melanie Jones as she interviews Brad Russell, a former corporate professional who made the bold decision to leave his career at Walmart and pursue chestnut farming full-time. Brad shares how he balanced both worlds before making the leap, the challenges he faced scaling up his farm, and how he turned his passion for agriculture into a thriving business. Tune in to discover how you too can create new opportunities from your land.

What you'll learn:
  • Why Brad left his corporate job for farming.
  • The grit it takes to scale a farm.
  • Inspiration for turning passion into opportunity.
Resources:Website: https://unitedchestnuts.com/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unitedchestnuts 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitedchestnuts/ 
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Branching-Out 
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6QfQsz4sZNihYpZqS7Fkj2?si=837019faacb04efa 

Learn more about Brad Russell and Chestnuts In the Ozarks: https://www.chestnutsintheozarks.com/ 

Follow Chestnuts in the Ozarks: 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chestnuts-In-The-Ozarks-102362755869909 
Instagram: http://instagram.com/chestnutsozark

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From Chestnut Trees to Sustainability: Amy Miller's Story03 Aug 202401:13:45
In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, our host, Melanie Jones sits down with Amy Miller, COO of Route 9 Co-Op, to discuss her fascinating childhood on a chestnut tree farm in Appalachian, Ohio. Raised by academic parents amidst a large Amish community, Amy's story is a compelling blend of cultural diversity, agricultural innovation, and a steadfast commitment to sustainability. Tune in to learn how her upbringing influences her current work and future endeavors in specialty crop research and environmental sustainability.

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The Chestnut Tree Comeback with Bob Stehli13 May 202400:24:29
Curious about chestnut farming? Farmer Bob Stehli spills the beans on everything from selecting the perfect site and planting chestnut trees to the challenges and rewards of harvesting these delicious nuts on the latest episode of the Branching Out Podcast. Join host, Melanie Jones and Bob as they explore the impact of chestnut blight and the importance of collaboration among growers. Learn how organizations like the Northern Nut Growers Association are helping the American chestnut thrive again.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Buzz Ferver on Blight Resistance and Nut Tree Cultivation22 Apr 202400:47:02
In this episode of the Branching Out podcast, we dive into the world of nut tree cultivation with Buzz Ferver. We explore the challenges and advancements in breeding blight-resistant chestnut trees, suitable for colder climates like Vermont. Buzz also shares his passion for various nut trees beyond chestnuts and the potential they hold for sustainable gardening practices.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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From Hazelnuts to Chestnuts with Tissue Culture08 Mar 202400:42:37
Join host Melanie Jones as she chats with Craig Clark, the "nursery nerd" turned chestnut pioneer. Explore the exciting world of tissue culture and its potential to transform the chestnut industry. Learn about the challenges, successes, and future possibilities of this innovative technique.

Subscribe to Branching Out for more inspiring stories from the diverse world of chestnut crops!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Land, Legacy & the Future of Farming: Small Business Lessons from Chestnuts05 May 202500:15:26
This Small Business Week, we’re digging deep into how chestnuts can power more than just your pantry — they can build a business.Melanie shares what she’s learned from financial advisor and grower Joel Hubbard and Propagate’s Jeremy Kaufman about building real business models around chestnut orchards. From land structure and taxes to agroforestry and next-generation planning, this episode is packed with insight for farmers, landowners, and dreamers alike.

You’ll hear:
  • Why Joel believes chestnuts belong in your investment portfolio
  • How Jeremy is helping farmers scale agroforestry across the U.S.
  • Funding, planning, and structure tips for your chestnut orchard
  • The emotional and financial power of planting for future generations
If you’re thinking about how to grow smarter, this one’s for you.Learn more and subscribe at unitedchestnuts.com and follow Branching Out: Growing Together for more interviews, field notes, and stories from the chestnut community.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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A Nutritional Powerhouse: Exploring the Health Benefits of Chestnuts10 Feb 202400:38:11
Dive into the world of chestnuts with guest Landon Evans, an expert in exercise physiology and nutrition. Discover the myriad health benefits of chestnuts, from their low-fat content to their rich vitamin and mineral profile. Explore storage tips and the importance of incorporating chestnuts into a healthy diet.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Branching Out with Abby Johnson: Navigating the Chestnut Landscape16 Dec 202300:29:51
In this episode, Melanie Jones engages in a heartfelt conversation with Abby Johnson, sharing insights into her remarkable journey in chestnut farming. From challenges to triumphs, Abby's narrative unveils the intricacies of the industry and the commitment required to thrive. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and valuable lessons in sustainable agroforestry.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Harvesting Wealth: Financial Insights on Balanced Portfolios and Chestnut Orchards02 Dec 202300:28:38
Join Melanie Jones and her guest Joel Hubbard in Episode 7 of the Branching Out Podcast as they unearth the secrets to financial success in the chestnut industry. Joel, a CPA, sheds light on the art of maintaining a balanced portfolio, emphasizing the importance of diversified investments in cash, stocks, bonds, and even chestnut orchards. Explore the roots of Melanie and Joel's professional relationship, discover the surprising profitability of chestnut farming, and gain practical tips for navigating the world of land investments. Tune in to this enriching conversation that goes beyond the numbers, weaving together financial wisdom and the thriving legacy of chestnut orchards.

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Roots of Sustainability: Chestnut Farming in the Ozarks11 Nov 202300:29:51
Join Melanie Jones on the Branching Out podcast as she delves into the sustainable journey of Brad and Sandy Russell, owners of Chestnuts in the Ozarks. Discover their vision for chestnut farming and their inspiring transition from Corporate America to nurturing the largest chestnut orchard in Arkansas.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Growing Our Future: The Power of Agroforestry and Chestnut Farming28 Oct 202300:38:18
In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Kaufman, COO of Propgate, to delve into the world of agroforestry and the journey of chestnut farming. Uncover the benefits of diversification, the importance of ecosystem services, and how agroforestry can transform the future of agriculture. A conversation that will inspire and inform.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Greg Miller on Optimal Chestnut Trees & Co-op Benefits29 Sep 202300:44:12
Discover the ideal chestnut trees for your orchard and the co-op advantages for chestnut growers in this insightful interview with Melanie Jones and Greg Miller.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Dr. Revord of UMCA - Chats About Chestnut Innovations, Insights, and More10 Sep 202300:42:07
Join Melanie Jones and Dr. Ron Revord in this exciting episode of the 'Branching Out Podcast' as they explore the latest chestnut innovations in Agroforestry. Discover how these remarkable trees are revolutionizing farming and combating climate change. Brought to you by United Chestnut Farm.

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What's Branching Out About?04 Aug 202300:00:27
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OffShoot Edition - From Episode with Dave Skinner03 May 202500:03:34
This offshoot episode is based on our recent conversation with Dave Skinner of Whitetal Properties, where we discuss "How to Buy Land with Purpose: Strategies from Dave Skinner."

What should you really know before buying a piece of land? In this episode, I sit down with Dave Skinner of Whitetail Properties to talk about the journey from passion to profession — and all the ways you can turn land ownership into a meaningful investment. Whether you’re dreaming of a hunting property, a chestnut orchard, or a cabin in the woods, Dave offers practical insights that will inspire you to take the next step.

You’ll learn:
  • What shifted in land buying trends post-COVID
  • How to choose the right real estate agent for land
  • Ideas for generating income from rural property (beyond farming)
  • The real ROI of land compared to traditional investments
  • Why passion for the outdoors still drives the best decisions
Want to learn more about land and chestnuts? Subscribe to the podcast and visit unitedchestnuts.com for resources, nursery info, and upcoming events and subscribe to the United Chestnuts YouTube channel. 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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How to Buy Land with Purpose: Strategies from Dave Skinner19 Apr 202500:32:22
What should you really know before buying a piece of land? In this episode, I sit down with Dave Skinner of Whitetail Properties to talk about the journey from passion to profession — and all the ways you can turn land ownership into a meaningful investment. Whether you’re dreaming of a hunting property, a chestnut orchard, or a cabin in the woods, Dave offers practical insights that will inspire you to take the next step.You’ll learn:
  • What shifted in land buying trends post-COVID
  • How to choose the right real estate agent for land
  • Ideas for generating income from rural property (beyond farming)
  • The real ROI of land compared to traditional investments
  • Why passion for the outdoors still drives the best decisions
Want to learn more about land and chestnuts? Subscribe to the podcast and visit unitedchestnuts.com for resources, nursery info, and upcoming events.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Scott Smith on Harvesting, Marketing & the Future of Chestnut Farming19 Apr 202500:36:14
Podcast Description: In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, Scott Smith shares his journey from growing up in the chestnut industry to running a successful orchard in Michigan. We dive into the realities of modern chestnut farming, including harvesting methods, marketing strategies, and why diversification is the key to success.Episode Highlights:
  • The transition from handpicking to mechanized harvesting
  • How Scott built a market for his chestnuts (now in 17 grocery stores!)
  • The role of grower collaboration and cultivar registration
  • How breweries are using chestnuts—and what that means for farmers
  • Why chestnut farming is as much about community as it is about crops
Tune in now to learn how to grow, sell, and thrive in the chestnut industry.Join the conversation! Visit unitedchestnuts.com for resources and follow us on social media for more chestnut farming insights.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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United Chestnuts & EBB Farms – Growing Together in the Chestnut Industry02 Mar 202500:21:42
In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, we explore the evolving landscape of chestnut farming and industry collaboration through United Chestnuts and EBB Farms.🌰

United Chestnuts is expanding beyond just one farm—it’s becoming a national platform to support chestnut growers who want to focus on farming without the burden of branding and marketing. We discuss how this initiative aims to unite growers, streamline sales, and educate consumers about chestnuts.

🌱 EBB Farms continues to stand as a leading example of hands-on, chestnut cultivation. We talk about the farm’s role in both growing premium chestnuts and educating the next generation of farmers.

If you're interested in growing, selling, or simply enjoying chestnuts, this conversation is packed with insights into how we can all grow together!🔔

Subscribe for more stories from farmers, innovators, and industry leaders shaping the future of chestnut farming.

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Growing Financial Stability for Chestnut Growers with Joel Hubbard, CPA23 Feb 202500:47:27
🎙 Welcome to Branching Out: Growing Together! 🌱🌰

In this episode, we’re diving into the financial side of farming and entrepreneurship with Joel Hubbard, CPA—a seasoned expert in accounting, tax strategies, and business financial planning. But Joel isn’t just a numbers guy—he’s also a passionate chestnut grower and the owner of Georgia Chestnuts, where he’s actively contributing to the growth of the chestnut industry. 🌰🌿

Joel brings valuable insights on how growers, landowners, and small business owners can navigate taxes, manage cash flow, and build long-term financial stability. Whether you're starting your orchard, expanding your farm, or just trying to make sense of the numbers, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you grow—both financially and sustainably.

🌎📈 Check out the previous episode of Branching Out with Joel Hubbard in the podcast playlist.

Hit like & subscribe and let’s get into it! 🎧👇 #BranchingOutPodcast #ChestnutFarming #GeorgiaChestnuts #UnitedChestnuts

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Overcoming Life’s Challenges: Finding Growth in the Unexpected25 Jan 202500:23:43
Life is full of twists and turns, but those unexpected moments often hold the greatest opportunities for growth. In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, we explore how to navigate career pivots, personal challenges, and the unpredictability of life with resilience and adaptability.Through deeply personal stories, you’ll discover:
  • How to embrace unexpected opportunities and turn setbacks into stepping stones.
  • Lessons from farming: adapting to life’s natural rhythms and letting go of control.
  • How personal challenges, like loss and an ADHD diagnosis, can lead to profound growth.
  • Why progress isn’t linear—but it’s always possible with persistence and flexibility.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with wisdom on creativity, self-discovery, and the power of showing up—even when the path forward looks uncertain.

Listen now and join us as we continue branching out and growing together!

➡️ Learn more at unitedchestnuts.com
📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment below!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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USDA Insights on Growing the Chestnut Industry21 Dec 202400:36:47
 In this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, we dive into the growing opportunities in U.S. chestnut farming with Jessica Shade from USDA NIFA. Discover how programs like the Specialty Crop Research Initiative are driving innovation and collaboration between growers and researchers. Jessica shares actionable insights on funding, industry challenges, and how you can play a part in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation!

🌐 Learn more:https://www.nifa.usda.gov/SCRI Website

🎙️ Subscribe for more episodes on sustainable farming and agricultural innovation.Let me know if you’d like additional adjustments!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Roger Blackwell on Growing a National Chestnut Movement09 Oct 202500:31:32
Melanie Jones sits down with Roger Blackwell, President of Chestnut Growers of America, to talk about the momentum building in the U.S. chestnut industry. Together they explore what’s changed, what’s ahead, and how growers across the country are uniting to shape the next chapter of this remarkable tree crop.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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What the Heck is SEO (and Why Chestnut Growers Should Care)20 Sep 202500:08:45
🌐 What the Heck is SEO (and Why Should Chestnut Growers Care?) 

Hi friends—Melanie Jones here with United Chestnuts, and today we’re breaking down a big, messy topic in a way that makes sense for farmers: 👉 SEO (Search Engine Optimization) If you're a grower who wants to sell more chestnuts, trees, or host visitors to your orchard—but don’t have time to become a digital marketing expert—this episode is for you. We’ll cover:
  • Why chestnut growers need SEO—even if you’re not “online people”
  • Simple ways to get your orchard found in Google, Facebook, and TikTok
  • What terms like AEO and GEO actually mean (and how they help)
  • How United Chestnuts is making this easy with tools, templates, and support
💻 Learn more and join the movement: unitedchestnuts.com/resources 🌰 Chestnuts are coming back—and we’re building the system to support them.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Ecdysis at EBB Farms: Inside the 1000 Farms Initiative29 Aug 202500:42:38
Today we’re out in the orchard with Nora D’Antuono from the Ecdysis Foundation, talking real‑world regenerative agriculture: soil health that sticks, biodiversity that pays back, and farmer‑led research through the 1000 Farms Initiative. We dig into tools like the BugBox and Xerinx, why insects are powerful indicators of farm health, and how community + data help farmers move from “hope” to “proof.” Recorded at EBB Farms (Western Kentucky)—the chestnut-growing testbed powered by the United Chestnuts movement. You’ll hear:
  • What 1000 Farms is measuring—and why it matters to your bottom line
  • Simple biodiversity practices that fit real schedules and budgets
  • The role of the BugBox/Xerinx in tracking ecosystem health
  • How growers are sharing data, stories, and momentum
Resources: unitedchestnuts.com/resources
Resources: ecdysis.bio
Connect: United Chestnuts Community (FB), Ecdysis Foundation, Blue Dasher Farm Tags: #RegenerativeAgriculture #SoilHealth #Biodiversity #1000Farms #Ecdysis #Chestnuts #UnitedChestnuts #EBBFarms

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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OffShoot Edition - Reserve Chestnut Seedlings and Chestnuts Now16 Aug 202500:06:11
🎙️ Branching Out: Growing Together

At EBB Farms, our Grow-Bag Strategy makes all the difference. We raise each seedling in a three-gallon breathable grow bag inside protected nurseries. They’re watered daily, weeded, and carefully staked — building a dense, fibrous root system that establishes quickly once planted. Before shipping, we gently shake off the soil and send the tree dormant, so you get the very same strong, orchard-ready trees we plant ourselves. In this episode, we explain why it pays to reserve your chestnut trees early. Demand is high, and these bare root seedlings are already in motion. Learn how they’re raised, what sets them apart, and why they often show faster growth in the field. 👉 Reserve now, and be ready to plant success.  Details at unitedchestnuts.com/ebb-farms

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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Regenerative Roots: Willie Huston on Farming, Music, and Land Legacy16 Aug 202500:52:31
At Pick N Grin Farm in western Kentucky, Willie Huston is doing more than raising crops—he’s cultivating a way of life rooted in observation, resilience, and joy. From silvopasture to biomimicry, mob grazing to music, Willie shares how tending the land has shaped his livelihood, his family, and his community. This episode is a reminder that restoring the earth begins with paying attention to what’s already there. What you’ll hear in this episode:
  • How Willie blends chestnuts, livestock, and wildflowers into a thriving farm ecosystem
  • The role of curiosity and observation in regenerative farming
  • Why diversity—of crops, community, and skills—creates resilience
  • The link between music, creativity, and land stewardship
  • Tips for starting your own small-scale farm with purpose
Listen in, and let’s grow together.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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From Wall Street to Chestnut Orchards: Brett Hundley on the Long-Term Investment Case08 Jun 202600:53:40
What happens when a Wall Street equity analyst with a master's degree in natural resources turns his attention to chestnut farming? You get one of the most data-grounded, ecologically serious conversations we've had on Branching Out: Growing Together.

Brett Hundley of Agroforestry Partners spent 15 years covering packaged food and agribusiness before co-founding a fund that has now planted nearly 1,600 acres of chestnut trees in Kentucky. He's not a romantic about it — he ran the numbers, visited farms in Chile, and made a deliberate choice. In this episode, he shares exactly what he found, what surprised him, and what it means for growers at every scale.

In this episode, you'll hear:
  • Why chestnuts rose to the top when Brett's team evaluated every major tree crop for the eastern U.S.
  • What a research trip to Chile's commercial chestnut industry revealed — and one observation that every American grower needs to hear
  • The real economics of chestnut farming: timeline, yield benchmarks, land value, and what patient capital actually looks like
  • How the U.S. compares to mature chestnut-producing countries — and why being early isn't a disadvantage
  • What Brett believes the domestic chestnut industry looks like in 30 years, and what role independent growers play in getting there
Visit unitedchestnuts.com for trees and resources from the Ebb Farm Lab and a community of growers ready to help. Subscribe so you don't miss the next episode of Branching Out: Growing Together.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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This episode includes AI-generated content.
Starting a Chestnut Orchard the Right Way Feat. Jon & Bill Nash of Nash Nurseries01 May 202600:48:00
On this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, host Melanie Jones sits down with Jon and Bill Nash of Nash Nurseries in Michigan. Together, the sixth- and seventh-generation Nashes share the habits, decisions, and community values that turn a first chestnut planting into a thriving orchard — from patience and site selection to tissue culture and the brand-new Treeborne value-added line.What You’ll Learn
  • Why patience is the #1 rule when starting a chestnut orchard (2:00)
  • The simple 1×1×1 soil-drainage test that can save your investment (36:45)
  • How six generations of know-how moved from Bill’s memory into barcodes and field maps (12:30)
  • The beer-napkin origin story of Treeborne’s chestnut chips and chestnut brown ale (23:00)
  • What tissue-culture Eurohybrids could mean for the next wave of growers (26:00)
  • Why Jon says, “We are not a big enough industry for everyone to be their own kingdom” (44:00)
Resources Mentioned

If this episode helped you, share it with a fellow grower and leave a review — it helps other chestnut-curious folks find us. Join the community at unitedchestnuts.com, subscribe to the weekly blog, and let’s keep growing together.

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This episode includes AI-generated content.
Sandy Russell on Chestnut Operational Maturity04 Apr 202600:38:00
Chestnut operational maturity is the difference between a hobby orchard and a resilient business. In this episode of Branching Out, I am joined by Sandy Russell to discuss the rigorous post-harvest systems required to survive a rapidly changing agricultural market. We explore why cold chain management, strict grading, and shared industry standards are absolute necessities for the modern grower.

Takeaways from this episode:
  • The 90/10 rule of chestnut supply chains.
  • How to avoid the financial risks of blind aggregation.
  • Why small growers must adopt strict post-harvest discipline today.
Listen to the full interview and join the conversation. Subscribe to Branching Out: Growing Together.


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This episode includes AI-generated content.
High-Tech Harvest: Transforming Orchards with Drone Technology17 Mar 202600:36:36
Can a drone really change the way you manage a chestnut orchard? This week, I’m sitting down with Caleb Canter from AeroAg to talk about the leap from hobbyist toys to industrial-grade tools.
We explore how autonomous flight is solving age-old problems for growers—from precision
spraying in tight canopies to mapping tree health with LIDAR. Whether you’re managing five
acres or five hundred, this conversation is a look into the future of sustainable farming.

● The Battery Breakthrough: How lithium-ion tech changed the game for heavy
payloads.
● Precision in the Canopy: Why drones are often more effective than traditional tractors
for tree crops.
● Beyond Spraying: Using drones for seeding, fertilizing, and even transporting your
harvest.
● The ROI Factor: Breaking down the costs of ownership versus hiring a service.
● Navigating the Legal Landscape: What you need to know about FAA licensing and
regulations.

Listen now and join the conversation at unitedchestnuts.com!

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Welcome to The Chestnut Blueprint05 Feb 202600:36:58
While much of American agriculture is stuck in debt and overproduction, a quiet revolution is growing beneath the canopy of chestnut trees. In this episode, Roger Smith of Prairie Grove Chestnut Growers joins United Chestnuts to share how his network of seven-state growers has broken free from the commodity system — and built a model where farmers are price makers, not price takers.

From “street-corner retail” to standardized genetics and cold-chain precision, Smith’s story is proof that specialty crops can rewrite the rules of farm economics. Host Kim Douglass unpacks how Smith and other innovators like Greg Miller and Mike Nave are leading the shift from survival to legacy — and why the chestnut industry’s playbook may hold the blueprint for the future of regenerative specialty farming.

Tune in if you’re ready to:
  • Understand how specialty crops are outpacing commodities
  • Learn practical steps to reclaim pricing power
  • Hear what modern cooperatives are doing to protect grower margins
  • See how small farms can scale through innovation and collaboration
For more episodes, insights, and grower resources, visit www.unitedchestnuts.com or join the United Chestnuts Community on Facebook and LinkedIn.

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Branching Out Growing Together OffShoot Edition -Messy Middle30 Jan 202600:08:26
Messy in the Middle: What It Really Looks Like to Build a Chestnut Orchard (and an Industry) What happens after the excitement of planting trees fades—but before everything feels established? In this Messy in the Middle episode of Branching Out: Growing Together, Melanie Jones reflects on the often-unseen middle phase of chestnut farming and industry-building. Inspired by the idea of the “messy middle,” this episode explores what it really looks like to grow a perennial crop—and a community—when progress is real but unfinished. From uneven harvests and learning curves to orchard decisions that don’t come with a playbook, this conversation is about staying planted through uncertainty. Melanie shares perspective from EBB Farms in Western Kentucky, parallels from other perennial crops like pistachios, and why patience, learning, and shared experience matter more than hype. This episode is for:
  • Chestnut growers in the early or mid stages
  • Landowners considering planting trees
  • Anyone building something long-term that doesn’t offer quick feedback
Chestnuts aren’t “coming back” overnight. They’re being built—orchard by orchard, season by season. This Messy in the Middle episode is part of an ongoing series within Branching Out: Growing Together, highlighting real-world, in-progress experiences from EBB Farms and the broader chestnut community. 👉 Learn more and explore resources at unitedchestnuts.com/resources

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/branching-out-growing-together--5924771/support.

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