Advertise on podcast: Growing Our Future

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen chats with Lilah Wheat, Gardopia Gardens' Education, Health, and Environment Intern and a senior at Trinity University. Lilah shares how her studies in anthropology shaped her curiosity about food systems and community wellbeing. Together, they explore her experiences at Gardopia Gardens, the lessons she's learned, and her vision for the future after graduation. Tune in for an inside look at what it's like to be part of the Gardopia internship experience! 

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen is joined by John Fisher from Life Lab, an organization dedicated to garden-based learning and environmental education. John shares his journey of teaching children to connect with nature through hands-on experiences in the garden, fostering curiosity, responsibility, and environmental stewardship. They discuss the impact of outdoor learning on students’ understanding of science, sustainability, and healthy living. Tune in to hear John’s inspiring story and gain insights into how garden education can nurture both young minds and the planet. 

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen sits down with Keianna “Kat” Cachora, Traditional and Nutritional Food Specialist at Hardin School District in Hardin, Montana. Kat shares how she weaves Indigenous food traditions into nutrition education, helping students connect cultural heritage with healthy eating habits. They discuss the importance of honoring ancestral knowledge, building a deeper understanding of food sources, and fostering respect for the land. Tune in to discover how Kat is inspiring the next generation to embrace wellness through a culturally rooted approach to nutrition. 

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen is joined by Peter Davis, an urban farming educator, and Justin Malone, principal of Charlottesville High School in Virginia. Peter and Justin share how they collaborated to start a school garden, the challenges and successes they encountered, and how vital principal support is in building and sustaining such a program. They also explore the positive impact garden-based learning has on students, staff, and the broader school community. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and gain practical insights for growing a thriving school garden of your own.

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen sits down with Alec Ferguson, co-founder of Armadillo Gardens—an urban farm rooted in the heart of San Antonio. Alec shares the story behind the farm he runs with his wife, Valerie, and their mission to reconnect city life with the natural world. They dive into the importance of urban farming, the role of farmers markets in building community, and why having access to fresh, local produce matters now more than ever. Tune in to explore how plants, food, and place all come together at Armadillo Gardens.

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, our host Stephen is joined by Gina Ortiz Jones, Former United States Under Secretary of the Air Force and current candidate for Mayor of San Antonio. Gina reflects on her time in the military and how it shaped her leadership values, public service mindset, and deep commitment to the people of San Antonio. Gina shares her vision for a more equitable, sustainable, and forward-thinking city. Tune in to hear how her lived experiences and bold ideas could help shape the future of San Antonio—and what it means to lead with both courage and compassion. Whether you're a longtime resident or just curious about the future of our city, this episode offers an inspiring look into what’s possible when leadership is rooted in service.

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen is joined by Cydny Bagley, the winner of last year’s Spring Grow-A-Thon. Cydny shares her winning journey, from the challenges she faced to the creative strategies she used to grow a thriving garden. Her passion for sustainable gardening and her experience in the competition offer inspiration and valuable tips for anyone looking to take their gardening skills to the next level. With this year’s Spring Grow-A-Thon just around the corner, Cydny’s story is a perfect reminder of what’s possible with a little determination and the right gardening practices. If you’re ready to get your hands dirty, connect with the gardening community, and have a chance to win big, be sure to sign up for this year’s competition! Tune in to hear how you can join the fun, grow with us, and make your garden the best it’s ever been.

 In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, host Stephen is joined by Patty Ward, co-owner of Sow Right Seeds. Patty shares the inspiring story behind how she and her husband launched their family-owned seed company in Greenwood, Missouri, just before the pandemic hit. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of growing their business during uncertain times, the importance of starting your garden with high-quality, sustainably sourced, and open-pollinated seeds, and the best practices for saving and storing seeds for future seasons. Tune in to learn more about their passion for gardening and how their seeds can help you cultivate a sustainable, thriving garden. 

In this Episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen sits down with Tanner Freeman, the creator of our Gardopia Logo! 

In this episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen is joined by Nadia Gaona and J'Shcarla Adkins to explore the incredible initiatives and impactful work being led by SA Metro Health across San Antonio. Tune in to learn about their innovative projects and the positive changes they’re driving in the community.

In this two-part Episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen sits down with Sylvain & Sarah Clavieres of Talking Tree Farms. As they discuss soil health, homesteading, and urban agriculture. Make sure to check out Talking Tree Farms on Instagram!

In this two-part Episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen sits down with Sylvain & Sarah Clavieres of Talking Tree Farms. As they discuss soil health, homesteading, and urban agriculture. Make sure to check out Talking Tree Farms on Instagram!

In this Episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen sits down with Skeets, a member of the Mushroom Compadres, a group of farmers building a farm in the Algarve region of Portugal. They discuss their mentality regarding climate change, the climate and challenges of growing in Portugal, and what keeps them motivated to move forward.  Make sure to check out the Mushroom Compadres on YouTube and Instagram!

In this episode Stephen sits down with William Abbott, former intern at Gardopia Gardens and a senior at Trinity University.  They discuss William's progression as an environmentalist, what work he did at Gardopia, and what his plans after graduation are.  Enjoy the episode!

In this special episode of the Growing Our Future Podcast, Stephen sits down with Angeles Mendez, a 2023 Aspen Healthy Communities Fellow, and the Regional Manager for Project Protect Food Systems.  Stephen and Angeles discuss, being Aspen Fellows,  the current landscape for agricultural workers, and Angeles' work to improve rights for workers.  Enjoy the episode!