Big Transformation: From Corporate America to Urban Farming with Dexter Ashford
Episode Summary:
In this inspiring episode of "My Big Full Authentic Life," host LaMondré Pough reconnects with longtime friend and visionary Dexter Ashford. They explore Dexter's remarkable journey from a successful yet unfulfilling career in corporate America to his passion-driven life as an urban farmer.
Discover how Dexter overcame numerous challenges, embraced sustainable farming practices, and made a significant impact on his community by addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy living.
Key Topics Discussed:
• Dexter's transition from corporate life to urban farming
• The power of passion and purpose in driving personal transformation
• Understanding food deserts and their impact on communities
• The benefits and practices of hydroponic farming
• Supporting local farmers and building a strong economic base
• Educating and inspiring the next generation of farmers
• Dexter's vision for community development and lasting change
Important Quotes:
• "Do what you love and the money will follow you. Do the thing that you love doing. Do the thing that you're passionate about, and let the money come in."
• "If I grow tomatoes, you grow cucumbers and we can do that co-op you talked about. So we have a community that provides healthy food."
• "None of us will fail if all of us come together, but all of us will fail if none of us come together."
Mentioned Books by Dexter Ashford:
• "Carrie Goes Farming": A children's book designed to celebrate family unity and inspire young minds to appreciate farming and sustainability.
• "Kids' Guide to Gardening Like a Pro": A practical guide for children to learn about gardening and develop hands-on skills.
• Upcoming Books: Dexter mentions two new books in development, "On My Tomatoes Ready" for older children and "Raccoons Stole My Tractor," a fun and educational story co-created with his daughter.
Mentioned YouTube Channels and Resources:
• YouTube University: Dexter often referred to learning new skills and farming techniques through YouTube University. Check out YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/] for a wide range of instructional videos on urban farming, hydroponics, and more.
• Curtis Stone: Dexter mentioned Curtis Stone, a notable figure in urban farming. Learn more about his techniques and insights on his YouTube channel [https://www.youtube.com/user/urbanfarmercstone].
Relevant Figures and Lawsuits:
• John Boyd Jr.: Dexter referenced John Boyd Jr., a prominent advocate for Black farmers and the founder of the National Black Farmers Association. Boyd was instrumental in the Pigford v. Glickman lawsuit, which addressed racial discrimination by the USDA against Black farmers. Learn more about John Boyd Jr. and his work on Wikipedia. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_W._Boyd_Jr.]
• Pigford Lawsuit: Dexter discussed the Pigford v. Glickman case, a landmark class-action lawsuit that led to significant settlements for Black farmers who faced discrimination from the USDA. More information on the lawsuit can be found here [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pigford_v._Glickman].
Dexter Ashford's Contact Information:
• Email: ashfordfamilyfarms@gmail.com
• YouTube Channel: Ashford Family Farms LLC [https://www.youtube.com/@ashfordfamilyfarmsllc5796]
Episode Sponsor:
• Thing Hat Thing
• Website: THTCreative.com [https://thtcreative.com/]
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