The Grow Renaissance

Ep. 74 The Seed Oil Problem with Kevin Smith

In this episode of Pasture Prime Time, the team sits down with Kevin Smith — a former chef, certified clinical nutritionist, and advocate for regenerative agriculture — to unpack the deep connection between food, farming, and human health. From growing up on organic farms in the UK to transforming food operations across the U.S., Kevin shares his personal journey of healing through nutrition and why he believes today’s industrial food system is driving both chronic illness and environmental damage. The conversation dives into seed oils, regenerative farming, gut health, food processing, and the growing movement to reconnect consumers with ethical farmers and producers. Kevin also explains the mission behind Zero Acre and how innovative alternatives to conventional vegetable oils could reshape the future of agriculture, sustainability, and public health. If you care about where your food comes from, the future of farming, and how small choices can create massive change, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Connect with Neil, Amanda, and Kevin! Neil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/] Amanda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated] Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-smith-294268398/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-smith-294268398/] Set up your FREE Grow Wallet: https://app.growblockchain.net/ [https://app.growblockchain.net/] Join the Grow Skool here: https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3 [https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3] Each episode features inspiring stories and discussions on new ways to nourish our planet and its people. We explore sustainable practices and how technology can improve farming, all with the goal of creating a more connected and sustainable future. Whether you are a tech enthusiast who knows everything or nothing about the blockchain, or someone who cares about the food you eat and the planet we live on, there is something here for you. Join us today as we work together to build a better world for today and tomorrow!   About Grow United: Grow United is a technology company building blockchain-based products and services to decentralize the farming industry by bringing traceability and sustainability to AgTech. The goal of these products and services is to nourish people, animals and the planet.   🌐 Learn more: https://www.growunited.com [https://www.growunited.com/] 🎮 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy [https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy] 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance [https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance] Let’s grow together! 🌱   Disclaimer This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements discuss plans, strategies, prospects, and expectations concerning the business, operations, markets, risks, and other similar matters. There may be events in the future that we cannot accurately predict or control. Any forward-looking statement contained herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not plan to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Grow Nodes and the Grow Blockchain are governed by a Distributed Governance Framework (DGF). The Grow Blockchain, which is governed by Grow Node Owners, self-govern the distribution of Grow Digital Rewards. Grow Digital Rewards are earned in exchange for work and action on the Grow Blockchain. Grow Digital Rewards are designed to have utility throughout the Grow Ecosystem for the purchase of Grow’s products and services. The Grow Digital Reward is not an investment product and may never have any value outside of the Grow Ecosystem. Grow Node Owners should not expect to recognize any value from the Grow Digital Reward other than its utility within the Grow Ecosystem

Ep. 73 Why Your Grocery Store Produce Tastes Like Nothing — And What to Buy Instead

In this episode, Neil and Amanda sit down with Dan Avukian — better known as the Produce Man — a 50-year veteran of the fresh produce industry who has worked every corner of it, from retail and wholesale to food service, home delivery, and running his own store. Dan shares how a late-night radio gig in San Francisco accidentally launched a decades-long career educating consumers about fresh produce, eventually leading to the nationally syndicated Produce Pair radio show with his co-host Guido the Gardener. The conversation covers everything from the dramatic decline of California asparagus farming due to imports and labor costs, to why the best tomato you'll eat is always in July, to the importance of buying local and seasonal produce for both flavor and nutrient density. Dan also shares his work with Ag Life Media's Fresh From the Field Fridays podcast, the charity platform JustSayIt.com, and his passion for getting kids excited about fruits and vegetables. A rich, flavorful conversation about the past, present, and future of fresh produce in America. Connect with Neil, Amanda, and Dan! Neil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/] Amanda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated] Dan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-avakian-21505514/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-avakian-21505514/] Set up your FREE Grow Wallet: https://app.growblockchain.net/ [https://app.growblockchain.net/] Join the Grow Skool here: https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3 [https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3] Each episode features inspiring stories and discussions on new ways to nourish our planet and its people. We explore sustainable practices and how technology can improve farming, all with the goal of creating a more connected and sustainable future. Whether you are a tech enthusiast who knows everything or nothing about the blockchain, or someone who cares about the food you eat and the planet we live on, there is something here for you. Join us today as we work together to build a better world for today and tomorrow!   About Grow United: Grow United is a technology company building blockchain-based products and services to decentralize the farming industry by bringing traceability and sustainability to AgTech. The goal of these products and services is to nourish people, animals and the planet.   🌐 Learn more: https://www.growunited.com [https://www.growunited.com/] 🎮 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy [https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy] 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance [https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance] Let’s grow together! 🌱   Disclaimer This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements discuss plans, strategies, prospects, and expectations concerning the business, operations, markets, risks, and other similar matters. There may be events in the future that we cannot accurately predict or control. Any forward-looking statement contained herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not plan to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Grow Nodes and the Grow Blockchain are governed by a Distributed Governance Framework (DGF). The Grow Blockchain, which is governed by Grow Node Owners, self-govern the distribution of Grow Digital Rewards. Grow Digital Rewards are earned in exchange for work and action on the Grow Blockchain. Grow Digital Rewards are designed to have utility throughout the Grow Ecosystem for the purchase of Grow’s products and services. The Grow Digital Reward is not an investment product and may never have any value outside of the Grow Ecosystem. Grow Node Owners should not expect to recognize any value from the Grow Digital Reward other than its utility within the Grow Ecosystem

Ep. 72 The Healing Equation with Miriam Putnam

In this episode of Pasture Prime Time, a Grow Renaissance series, we sit down with Miriam Putnam—wellness coach and founder of the WeHelp Group—to explore the deeper roots of mental health, healing, and human potential. Drawing from decades of experience and personal journey, Miriam challenges the conventional approach to mental health, arguing that many symptoms often labeled as psychological may actually stem from physical imbalances like nutrition, toxicity, or environmental stress. The conversation unpacks the powerful connection between body, mind, and soul, the role of food and lifestyle in emotional well-being, and why true healing requires addressing root causes rather than masking symptoms. From broken systems to hopeful solutions, this episode offers a bold, holistic perspective on how we can rethink health, restore balance, and build a more aligned, resilient future. Connect with Neil, Amanda, an Miriam! Neil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/] Amanda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated] Miriam:https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriamputnam/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriamputnam/] Miriam Putnam: https://miriamputnam.org/ [https://miriamputnam.org/] Set up your FREE Grow Wallet: https://app.growblockchain.net/ [https://app.growblockchain.net/] Join the Grow Skool here: https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3 [https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3] Each episode features inspiring stories and discussions on new ways to nourish our planet and its people. We explore sustainable practices and how technology can improve farming, all with the goal of creating a more connected and sustainable future. Whether you are a tech enthusiast who knows everything or nothing about the blockchain, or someone who cares about the food you eat and the planet we live on, there is something here for you. Join us today as we work together to build a better world for today and tomorrow!   About Grow United: Grow United is a technology company building blockchain-based products and services to decentralize the farming industry by bringing traceability and sustainability to AgTech. The goal of these products and services is to nourish people, animals and the planet.   🌐 Learn more: https://www.growunited.com [https://www.growunited.com/] 🎮 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy [https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy] 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance [https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance] Let’s grow together! 🌱   Disclaimer This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements discuss plans, strategies, prospects, and expectations concerning the business, operations, markets, risks, and other similar matters. There may be events in the future that we cannot accurately predict or control. Any forward-looking statement contained herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not plan to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Grow Nodes and the Grow Blockchain are governed by a Distributed Governance Framework (DGF). The Grow Blockchain, which is governed by Grow Node Owners, self-govern the distribution of Grow Digital Rewards. Grow Digital Rewards are earned in exchange for work and action on the Grow Blockchain. Grow Digital Rewards are designed to have utility throughout the Grow Ecosystem for the purchase of Grow’s products and services. The Grow Digital Reward is not an investment product and may never have any value outside of the Grow Ecosystem. Grow Node Owners should not expect to recognize any value from the Grow Digital Reward other than its utility within the Grow Ecosystem

Ep. 71 Feeding the Future Without Breaking the Land

Each episode features inspiring stories and discussions on new ways to nourish our planet and its people. We explore sustainable practices and how technology can improve farming, all with the goal of creating a more connected and sustainable future. Whether you are a tech enthusiast who knows everything or nothing about the blockchain, or someone who cares about the food you eat and the planet we live on, there is something here for you. Join us today as we work together to build a better world for today and tomorrow!   About Grow United: Grow United is a technology company building blockchain-based products and services to decentralize the farming industry by bringing traceability and sustainability to AgTech. The goal of these products and services is to nourish people, animals and the planet.   🌐 Learn more: https://www.growunited.com [https://www.growunited.com/] 🎮 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy [https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy] 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance [https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance] Let’s grow together! 🌱   Disclaimer This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements discuss plans, strategies, prospects, and expectations concerning the business, operations, markets, risks, and other similar matters. There may be events in the future that we cannot accurately predict or control. Any forward-looking statement contained herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not plan to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Grow Nodes and the Grow Blockchain are governed by a Distributed Governance Framework (DGF). The Grow Blockchain, which is governed by Grow Node Owners, self-govern the distribution of Grow Digital Rewards. Grow Digital Rewards are earned in exchange for work and action on the Grow Blockchain. Grow Digital Rewards are designed to have utility throughout the Grow Ecosystem for the purchase of Grow’s products and services. The Grow Digital Reward is not an investment product and may never have any value outside of the Grow Ecosystem. Grow Node Owners should not expect to recognize any value from the Grow Digital Reward other than its utility within the Grow Ecosystem

Ep. 70 Can We Rethink How We Grow Food?

**Some sections of this conversation include minor echo due to recording environments. We chose to keep the full discussion intact because of the value shared. In this episode of Pasture Prime Time, part of The Grow Renaissance, we sit down with Roger Pope—aka the “Green Pope”—to explore the intersection of traditional farming and cutting-edge growing systems, from hydroponics and aquaponics to regenerative soil practices. Drawing on decades of hands-on experience, Roger shares how water quality, mineral balance, and environmental conditions shape plant health, why innovation and old-school knowledge don’t have to compete, and what’s actually working in agriculture today. This conversation dives into practical tips for growers, bold ideas for feeding a changing world, and the importance of reconnecting people, data, and land to build more resilient food systems for the future. Connect with Neil and Amanda! Neil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/regensystems25/] Amanda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated [ https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-smith-elevated] Set up your FREE Grow Wallet: https://app.growblockchain.net/ [https://app.growblockchain.net/] Join the Grow Skool here: https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3 [https://www.skool.com/thegrowskool/about?ref=3952ada279f74a1c9096aac759ab62d3] Each episode features inspiring stories and discussions on new ways to nourish our planet and its people. We explore sustainable practices and how technology can improve farming, all with the goal of creating a more connected and sustainable future. Whether you are a tech enthusiast who knows everything or nothing about the blockchain, or someone who cares about the food you eat and the planet we live on, there is something here for you. Join us today as we work together to build a better world for today and tomorrow!   About Grow United: Grow United is a technology company building blockchain-based products and services to decentralize the farming industry by bringing traceability and sustainability to AgTech. The goal of these products and services is to nourish people, animals and the planet.   🌐 Learn more: https://www.growunited.com (https://www.growunited.com/) 🎮 Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy [https://discord.gg/EqbJApwy] 📸 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance [https://www.instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance] Let’s grow together! 🌱   Disclaimer This podcast may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements discuss plans, strategies, prospects, and expectations concerning the business, operations, markets, risks, and other similar matters. There may be events in the future that we cannot accurately predict or control. Any forward-looking statement contained herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We do not plan to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements except as required by law. Grow Nodes and the Grow Blockchain are governed by a Distributed Governance Framework (DGF). The Grow Blockchain, which is governed by Grow Node Owners, self-govern the distribution of Grow Digital Rewards. Grow Digital Rewards are earned in exchange for work and action on the Grow Blockchain. Grow Digital Rewards are designed to have utility throughout the Grow Ecosystem for the purchase of Grow’s products and services. The Grow Digital Reward is not an investment product and may never have any value outside of the Grow Ecosystem. Grow Node Owners should not expect to recognize any value from the Grow Digital Reward other than its utility within the Grow Ecosystem