Meet Our Farmer Training Students

Armand Denton

My name is Armand Denton. While I’ve done a bit of moving around, I’ve spent the majority of my life in Virginia. I found out about the Rodale Institute’s VFTP while looking for a way to pivot away from the Navy. I was especially interested in Regenerative agriculture, so it seemed like a good fit and they were willing to give me a chance.

My experience in agriculture is limited, so I’m still deciding on what I would like to grow, but I spent some time working on a regenerative cattle and poultry farm before the Navy, so I would like to be able to incorporate that into my plans for agriculture. I’m also interested in learning about beekeeping and growing mushrooms.

As to why I’m here, I’ve spent as much time as I care to in florescent-lit, beige tombs or out in the middle of the ocean. I think that farming, when done right, is good for the people doing the work and for those receiving the product of that work. After the program, I would like to gain more experience, perhaps by staying on as a fellow (if they offer) or by working on a more established operation.

Asher Williams

My name is Asher Williams I am a Marine veteran that worked as a Combat Engineer during my service. I was in for 5 years and some change.

I am originally from South Dakota. However, my former duty station was in Southern California(Camp Pendleton) San Clemente was where I lived while serving.

I came to the Rodale Institute because during my research online, I found this was one of the most well-known and respected organizations in organic farming. Of which, also happened to offer a veteran program. This intrigued me because I was wary of a transition straight into civilian life.The veteran program seemed like a way to connect and slowly adapt along other like-minded vets.I want to learn how to create a farm and make it profitable enough to provide a comfortable life for me and my wife.

Farming to me, seems to have a sense of independence that no other career can give you. I would like to have a stake in that independent lifestyle. Working with your hands and seeing the literal fruit of your labor come to fruition is a bonus.

After the program ends, I plan to find work on another organic or possibly regenerative farm. In order to further my understanding of farming and the business behind making a profit in this new career. If the opportunity comes to pass that I can start my own farm without extra study and learning, I will. However, being cautious and taking it slow can’t hurt.

Ben Stutzman

Hello, my name is Ben Stutzman. Despite growing up in the farming county of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, I skipped over connecting with the land in pursuit of shinier things.

I studied computer engineering in college and then worked in IT for international nonprofits for a while, but the ever-increasing complexity and abstraction of digital technology made me long for more tangible work on a smaller scale. After reading The Unsettling of America by Wendell Berry, I jotted down a note that I might “become a small farmer as my second career,” and I guess that idea has been working itself out ever since!

Over the next couple of years, through conversations, backyard gardening, and volunteering on a local farm, I discovered how the challenges and purpose of farming align with my own skills and values. So when the time was ripe, I turned off the computer to go back outside and learn how to grow food for a living!

The RIFT program is the perfect way for me to start this venture in earnest, with its combination of expert teaching and hands-in-the-dirt practice. I’m excited to build a foundation in growing a wide range of produce so that I can eventually run a vegetable CSA, serving my community practically and reconnecting with a small piece of this amazing earth.

Brad Smith

I am Brad Smith, An Air Force Veteran from Tucson, Arizona. In the years since leaving the military I have struggled to find peace. Unfortunately my invisible wounds and TBIs have had harmful and lasting impacts on my family and life. Through Heroes to Hives and Veterans Farmers Coalition, I was called to Rodale’s Veteran Farmer Training Program. I have no prior agricultural experience and am eagerly and humbly approaching this with an open heart and open mind.

Through this opportunity, I am hoping to acquire the practical skills and knowledge needed to sow the seeds of change in my life and to grow a healthier and more sustainable future. “The soil doesn’t just grow crops — it heals hearts and clears minds.” — Joel Ndirangu.

I believe there is purpose and meaning to be found by laboring in the soil. I plan on using what I learn here at Rodale to produce nutritious food and help heal not only the land, but also myself, those I care about, and anyone I can influence.

My goal is to be like the ripple in the water radiating out. “Each one, reach one. Each one, teach one.Until all are taught.” – Mark Victor Hansen

Christopher Wagnon

Christopher Wagnon is an US Army combat Veteran, husband, and father of five from Peachtree City,Georgia with deep family roots in Southern agriculture, including dairy farming, muscadine vineyards, and traditional row crops. He joined the Rodale Institute’s Farmer Training Program because regenerative agriculture aligns with his family’s mission of faith, stewardship, and service. Through his work with Veterans, prison ministry, and community organizations, Christopher has seen how agriculture can restore both land and people.

At Rodale, he looks forward to learning soil health management, regenerative systems, crop planning, and livestock integration from leaders in the field. After completing the program, Christopher plans to establish Hearts of Grace Regenerative Farm in North Georgia—a multigenerational farm focused on food production, land stewardship, and agricultural education.

His long-term vision is built around three initiatives:

• Hearts of Grace Regenerative Farm – a diversified regenerative farm producing healthy food for the community.
• Hearts of Grace Land Stewardship – helping churches, retreat centers, schools, and families responsibly cultivate their land.
• Hearts of Grace Farmer Training – teaching Veterans, families, and communities of faith practical agricultural skills.

Dan Howell

Dan Howell, born in Colon, Republic of Panama, I served 21 years in the US military in both the Navy and Army, where I learned discipline, teamwork, and the value of serving something greater than myself. After retiring, I sought a new mission: building a sustainable legacy for my family through regenerative farming.

I came to Rodale’s Veteran Farmer Training program to gain the hands on knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to start a lavender and bee farm with my wife and son. Rodale’s expertise in regenerative agriculture, including its treatment free Honeybee Conservancy and focus on pollinator resiliency, biodiversity and soil regeneration, perfectly equips me to create a thriving, ecosystem supporting generations.

What I look forward to the most is the profound spiritual fulfillment of working the land daily with my family tending the soil that heals and regenerates, watching bees dance among lavender blooms and experiencing the quiet miracle of harmony between people, nature, and purpose as we steward the earth together.

After my time here, I plan to acquire and steward 20+ acres, transforming it into a multigenerational family farm growing organic lavender for essential oils, maintaining healthy bee populations to bolster local ecosystems, and passing down regenerative practices to ensure prosperity for generations. Rodale is empowering me to turn that vision into reality one resilient acre at a time.

Kyle Mayer

My name is Kyle Mayer, I am a family man with a background in mortgage finance for the last 10+ years. I am a Lehigh Valley Native, born in Bethlehem and grew up in the Bethlehem/Easton area.

I came to Rodale to become a farmer. To be able to feed my family, and my community. I look forward tol earning the right way to farm, providing healthy food while also taking care of the land.

I chose agriculture because I was looking for purpose. I believe that there is great purpose in creating a healthy sustainable future through organic farming. I have been told my family used to be farmers generations ago, I would like to reconnect with those roots.

I plan to have my own family farm focusing on vegetables, grains, and beans. I would like to establish my own pickled vegetable brand.

Lauren Brady

I’m a city girl, born and raised in Omaha, NE.

I came to Rodale to gain hands-on training and build the confidence to start my own successful organic regenerative agriculture farm.I am eager to learn everything Rodale has to offer, particularly in the areas of herbs, vegetables, and honeybees. I love making my own tea blends and elderberry syrup!

I aspire to be part of the solution to the pressing challenges in our current farming systems, such as soil degradation, decreased nutrient density, and rising cancer rates. I want to go back to our roots and connect with nature to grow healthy food that improves the health of both our society and planet. I know how much the food we put in our bodies can impact our health, so I’m committed to pursuing something with a purpose and not just a paycheck.

After RIFT, I plan to get my own plot of land to provide healthy food for my future family, local community, and potentially nationwide. I hope to not only provide this food but also education to make a lasting impact.

Liz Bifalco

My name is Liz Bifalco, and I’ve always felt most grounded working with my hands and spending time outdoors. I’m curious about how ecosystems function and how people can work with the land in ways that are restorative rather than extractive. I’m especially interested in medicinal herbs, soil health, and growing food that supports both human and environmental wellbeing.

I grew up in the suburbs of northern New Jersey.I was gifted a copy of Organic Manifesto by Maria Rodale, which led me to learn more about the Rodale Institute. I later attended a Rodale field day where the passion, knowledge, and values I witnessed made a lasting impression on me. Now, I’m excited to begin my journey with the RIFT program to learn how regenerative organic farming works through hands-on experience and immersive mentorship. I look forward to deepening my understanding of soil health, crop production, and the business side of farming while learning alongside others who share a commitment to building a healthier and more accessible food system.

I’m particularly interested in growing medicinal herbs, flowers, and vegetables, and developing value-added products such as teas and herbal preparations.

For me, farming is where many of my interests come together—an appreciation for science, respect for nature, purposeful physical work, and service to my community. Agriculture feels like a tangible and meaningful way to participate in solutions to challenges like soil degradation, food quality, and environmental sustainability. I’m especially drawn to the idea that farming isn’t just about growing food; it’s about cultivating health for both people and the land.

After completing the program, I hope to continue gaining hands-on farming experience by working on other farms while building toward starting a small diversified farm of my own. My goal is to apply theknowledge and skills I gain through this program to create a farm that is both ecologically responsible andeconomically sustainable.

Mackenzy Chastain

As a naturalist born from the dry clay lands of Austin, Texas, I am enthused by a world in which nature’s traditions meet mankind’s progressive ways, in harmony. When I found out about Rodale’s RIFT program,I instantly knew it was something that I wanted to be a part of.

From the outside looking in, it seems like something that I could gain a plethora of ethical farm knowledge and skills. After beginning the first week, I realize it is more than that – there is a remarkable harmony that flows through the land and its people. I look forward to learning all that I can about this community, the many fruits that this land bears, and finding my own path as I grow.

I believe that agriculture is the art of humankind and nature surviving in co-dependence. Learning about it will satisfy my core desire of understanding how the world around me works, how to preserve that, and keep not just myself, but humanity as a whole, heading in the right direction. After all, everybody eats.

My plan for after RIFT isn’t set in stone yet, in fact it’s rather malleable. If I have the means to start my own venture, I’m interested in growing aloe vera or currant berries.

Ray Stephens

Ray Stephens, a retired Marine Corps combat veteran and father of three.

I was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, moving to Pennsylvania after getting married in pursuit of fertile farming grounds. I currently reside in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania with my wife and youngest child.

I came to Rodale Institute to gain the knowledge and confidence to pursue my family’s goal of owning and operating a homestead-farm which not only supports my family, but the community and church. The reputation and mission statement of Rodale’s Institutes RIFT program uniquely fit what I was looking for in an agricultural education training program. Providing each of its students; classroom instruction with hands-on training in regenerative organic agricultural methods backed with science-based data.

I chose farming as my next step in life to get both the benefits of the physical and mental health aspects of agriculture, but also take part in honorably working and stewarding for the land as we were intended to. My goal is to produce healthy produce and grains that will provide for my family while assisting others in my community. It is my hopes that this venture will bring the family closer together and be something that can be handed down.

Following completion of Rodale Institute’s RIFT program, I will take the time to further refine my businessplan while actively searching for a suitable property in Pennsylvania to make my family’s dreams come true.

Suzanne Hudecek

My name is Suzanne Hudecek and I’m from Coopersburg, PA.

I came here to learn how to successfully grow organic produce and turn it into a profitable business, I also strongly believe in the mission of Rodale. I have been hobby gardening for years but look forward to learning how to do it on a larger scale.

I plan to farm diversified vegetables as well as pastured poultry. I chose agriculture because I really enjoy working with my hands and wanted a more meaningful career to be able to support myself, responsibly steward the land, and be able to share quality nutritious foods with others.

After completing RIFT, I plan start my farm business on my property in Coopersburg

Samantha Cooper

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I am on a journey to heal myself physically and mentally through organic food and farming.
My partner is a graduate of the RIFT program class of 2024. I wanted to follow in his footsteps and receive the same education from the mastery staff at the Rodale Institute.
We want to implement the regenerative organic practices we learn here into our farming business.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

We are planning on focusing on flowers and medicinal herbs for our business, but I am passionate about growing all of my food for myself, family, and local community. As a personal project later in my career, I am also interested in fiber production to make my own yarn for my craft business.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

I am currently keeping my options open to see what opportunities come to me over the next 8 months in RIFT. I am open to continuing my education with Rodale. I would like to get a little more experience on other farms throughout the country. Eventually I would like to settle down and begin my own farm growing healthy flowers, herbs, and veggies. I intend to bring my community on my health journey with me and get the next generation passionate about change in the food systems.

Location: Central Indiana; open to other locations

Phone: (317)-225-7199
Email: Coopscrafts@gmail.com

Kade Eckert

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

Our food system is at a critical juncture, facing challenges that demand innovative, scalable solutions. I’ve dedicated my career to transforming it, driven by a passion for the intersection of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and public health. I firmly believe that environmental sustainability and economic viability can—and must—coexist harmoniously, and my work focuses on developing practical, forward-thinking solutions to achieve this vision.
With a BA in Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Sales from the University of Washington and hands-on experience in startups, I’ve pivoted my expertise to address food system challenges. In Seattle, I ran a microgreens business, supplying a local food bank and addressing urban food deserts through sustainable food access and education. I also taught high school students about Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA), nutrition, and food origins, empowering them to build healthier, more sustainable futures. My work with the USDA’s NASDA and direct collaboration with small farmers in the Pacific Northwest provided me with firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities in agriculture today. I’ve also worked globally, collaborating with social impact entrepreneurs to gain diverse perspectives and insights.
Every day, I’m fueled by the belief that we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and resilient food system. I’m here at RIFT to sharpen my skills, connect with like-minded innovators, and refine my approach with industry-vetted pragmatism. Together, we can redefine how we nourish ourselves and our communities, ensuring a healthier future for generations to come.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

I am deeply passionate about regenerative agriculture—transforming neglected landscapes into thriving ecosystems while meeting our essential needs for food, fiber, and fuel. By prioritizing biodiversity, resilience, and soil health, we can directly address the climate crisis while elevating the nutritional quality of our food and fostering healing for individuals, communities, and the planet.
I firmly believe that food is medicine, yet our fractured food systems often deepen societal divisions. By rebuilding these systems, we can unlock the potential for community regeneration, fostering unity, health, and well-being. My vision is to cultivate a future where the land flourishes, people thrive, and the connection between the two is restored—creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

After graduating from the RIFT program, I aim to launch a mission-driven organization centered on the concept of “regeneration as a service.” This initiative will focus on transforming waste into wealth, soil into sustenance, and communities into thriving ecosystems. By integrating community composting programs, efficient waste management systems, and community-supported agriculture (CSAs), we can create sustainable revenue streams for farmers, restore soil health, and build resilient communities for future generations.
What excites me most is the potential to leverage strategic crowdfunding models and collective ownership structures to democratize access to regeneration. This approach not only incentivizes widespread participation but also removes traditional barriers, empowering individuals and communities to take ownership of their environmental and economic futures.
I’m actively building the knowledge, network, and resources needed to bring this vision to life. While my timeline remains adaptable, I’m deeply committed to pursuing meaningful learning opportunities, connecting with like-minded innovators, and contributing to projects that align with this mission.

Location: Washington State – Greater Seattle Area

As someone born and raised in Washington State, I am deeply motivated to give back to the communities that have played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. My long-term vision is to return to the Pacific Northwest, where I hope to continue making a meaningful impact. However, in the short term, I am eager to embark on impactful projects wherever they may be, embracing opportunities that allow me to contribute to community development and growth beyond my home region.

Phone: (509) 342-9802
Email: kade.eckert@gmail.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kadeeckert

Isidra Garcia

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I came to Rodale in 2023 as a videography intern. During my time here I worked closely with the RIFT program to document their time and create virtual content for the program. Learning through my work from passionate people made me want to be a part of this regenerative organic movement and learn even more.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

I am most interested in organic farming for the benefit it has on soil health. I believe in healing the earth through the soil. I don’t know exactly what I want to do with my own farm in the future, but I plan on planting hemp to achieve this goal while also developing a small vegetable market garden.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

After graduating from the program I’d like to work on saving up for my own small organic hemp farm. I would like to stay in an organic farming environment during that time, and also continue to work on my personal video projects.

Location: Kutztown PA

Phone: (484)-705-8245
Email: izzygarcia820@gmail.com
Instagram:@Izzygarcia820
YouTube: YouTube.com/izzygarcia

Delaney L Gemmel

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

Throughout her undergraduate career, she embraced every opportunity, gaining experience through internships with startups and a global chemical corporation. Studying abroad, especially with SIT in Malawi, Ecuador, and Spain, deepened her understanding of food systems and their impact on communities. She brought this knowledge home to support her family’s flower shop and help other small businesses streamline operations with innovative marketing strategies.

Rodale Institute was the perfect fit, aligning with her passion for regenerative organic agriculture. Their mission—healthy soil = good health—resonated deeply, and introducing flower farming made it even more exciting. After volunteering with the previous cohort, she knew this was where she wanted to be.

She sees her generation prioritizing sustainability and wants to play a role in creating a more transparent supply chain. Rodale’s strong network solidified her decision, offering the opportunity to be part of a movement reshaping how we grow, source, and consume food.

As a consumer, she understands the challenges of navigating labels and sourcing truly sustainable products. She is passionate about breaking down these barriers, making it easier for people to access trustworthy, environmentally responsible food and agricultural products.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

She is particularly passionate about procuring raw materials—from seed to consumer—whether it’s flowers, food, or fibers, all of which are essential to our daily lives. She aims to make the buying process more transparent by documenting every stage, from seed production to the end consumer and even the product’s end of life.

She is also deeply fascinated by soil health and waste management. Having witnessed firsthand the amount of waste generated by her family’s flower shop, she has taken it upon herself to repurpose unsold flowers by handing them out in the community, bringing joy to others while reducing waste. However, she is eager to explore more effective and environmentally sustainable solutions to tackle this issue on a larger scale.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

After graduating from RIFT, she hopes to acquire or lease land to grow flowers for local flower shops and a CSA program. Additionally, she aims to consult with farmers and agricultural professionals to develop transparent marketing initiatives that educate consumers in an accessible and engaging way.

She is also passionate about the event space and hopes to create sustainable events that minimize carbon footprints while actively supporting the local economy.

Location: Lehigh Valley, PA; open to work in eastern Pennsylvania

Phone:(484)-735-0051
Email: Delaney.Gemmel@gmail.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/delaney-gemmel/

Bouchra Hachem

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I’ve had Rodale Institute on my radar since my time studying for a Heath Coaching Certification with The Institute For Integrative Nutrition in New York, and I chose RIFT/VFTP because the program’s mission to advance regenerative organic farming and empower us to do the same are the perfect bridge between my vision/passion and my drive to continue to create a life aligned with those; one of good and lasting impact on our world.

The comprehensive training and immersive, outdoor, and hands-on learning approach the program offers is where I thrive. Also, the veteran-focused initiatives speak to my experience as a U.S. Army veteran, promising a supportive, mission-driven environment where my strengths—such as adaptability, teamwork, and resilience—are of value.

I see this program as not just an opportunity to grow as a farmer but also as a steward of the land, unleashing my full potential in a field that fulfils my purpose. I am confident that this program will provide me with the foundation to lead meaningful change through sustainable agriculture.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

I am most interested in sustainable agriculture, organic herb and flower farming, beekeeping, and agritourism. I am also passionate about education and community engagement.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?
I can see myself creating an interactive space where people, especially children, can learn about organic farming, beekeeping, and sustainability; a farm on which I am cultivating flowers and medicinal herbs for essential oils, honey production, and natural wellness value-added products such as herbal teas, infused oils, and natural skincare, while integrating regenerative farming practices. My goal is to create a diverse and sustainable business. I am not decided on a farming region or area yet, and I remain open to the many opportunities life presents as I walk this journey and explore its avenues.

Location: Austin, Texas and Mount Lebanon

Phone: (832)-889-0171
Email: bouchra.hachem@hotmail.com namash.music@gmail.com
Social Media: Find me on LinkedIn.

Travis Rittenhouse

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

The opportunity to gain hands-on experience on a larger scale farm where I can compare crop yield potential, soil fertility management techniques, and plant response to insect and disease pressures within regenerative organic and standard organic agricultural systems brought me to Rodale Institute. I’m also eager to gain knowledge directly from the researchers and trainers on site exclusive to the RIFT program.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

I’m most interested in learning to manage a multi-canopied agricultural system, where diversity exists from the treetops to the soil. The style of land stewardship that I feel most whole in is one that mimics the natural world. I believe it’s possible to progress row-crop ideology and methodology to the point where fruit and nut trees, shrubs and berry crops, and grain and vegetable crops are combined in rotation with native plants, flowers, cover crops, pollinators, and livestock. I hope to be a part of a team that collectively tackles this challenge and serves as a model for a biodiverse agriculture that’s capable of operating with a financial and social profit.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

Following graduation from the RIFT program, I hope to help build and manage a sustainable, profitable, and spiritually aware farming business that champions ecological farming practices to produce flavorful and nutrient-dense food crops. Further in the future, my goal is to pursue funding for facilitating on-farm research that helps organic farmers to succeed and consumers to choose their food crops with intention. Networking with local colleges and universities to attract professional research assistance will be integral to expanding this dimension of the farm and educating the surrounding communities.

An additional idea I’d like to explore includes implementing draft-power as a viable means of mechanization for larger scale row-cropping operations. The opportunity to learn the skills and tools associated with this century-tested form of mechanization is slowly waning, and at a time when the availability of post-fossil fuel technology is neither widespread nor affordable, familiarizing our culture with, and even improving upon, this more ageless form of power could prove to be a form of both food security and overdue food for the soul.

Location: Los Cerrillos, New Mexico; I’d be enthusiastic to farm in any region for the right opportunity, although the majority of my farming experience up to this point took root in New Mexico, Montana, Ohio, Germany, and Austria.

Phone: 740-624-3965
Please leave a message or text me if I miss your call!

Brantly Westfall

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I was drawn to Rodale Institute because of its pioneering work in regenerative organic farming and its commitment to sustainable agriculture practices. The RIFT program provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience, expert training, and access to a network of like-minded individuals passionate about transforming farming into a sustainable and impactful industry.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

Heirloom fruit orchards, particularly apples, face significant challenges due to the decline in their cultivation and the dominance of a few commercial varieties. Preserving heirloom apples is not only important for maintaining genetic diversity but also for ensuring that future generations can benefit from their unique traits and historical significance.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

I intend to leverage my brief experience at Rodale Institute to support the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania (or home state) to improve their position as leader’s in Organic Agriculture. Potential pathways include graduate-level education, internships, externships, and seasonal employment. Possible focus areas include improving local supply chain development, transition support, or other technical assistance.

Location: Monterey Bay, California; Exploring relocation in Pennsylvania, Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho, Hudson Valley, NY, New England, Reno, NV, Carmel Valley, CA

Phone: 415-410-7840  
Email: bsw4293@gmail.com
Social Media: LinkedIn

Payton Wilks

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I have been on a journey to discover what will eventually be my career, one that provides me with a sense of purpose. After spending time as an actor, teacher, bar manager, and world traveler; I was searching for what would stick. While studying for a certification in project management, I began to wonder what types of projects would have the greatest impact on the problems of the world, specifically climate change. I then discovered the regenerative agriculture movement, and a google search later led me to Rodale. The Institute’s mission of research, education, and consultation deeply resonated with my values. I finally felt like this is what I’m meant to do with my life: grow nutritious food, create and educate communities, and help fight climate change.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

My interests range from market farming to livestock management (holistic adaptive grazing), to beekeeping to row-crop production. I am interested in the transition from conventional systems to more regenerative ones, and how we can help more farmers make the shift. I believe that through these methods we can heal ourselves and the planet, one farm at a time.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

After completing the program, I would like to farm-manage on different properties in order to deepen and share my understanding of the methodologies I’m learning at Rodale.

Location: Tipp City, Ohio, born and raised; though I lived in New Orleans for a few years, and many years living around the world (France, Italy, Thailand, India).

I am hoping to explore other regions of the US (Pacific Northwest, Great Plains, Appalachia, etc.). Though I am beginning to enjoy Pennsylvania and might stick around.

Phone: 937-524-6419
Email: paytonrambles@gmail.com

Shawn Cabalsi

What brought you to Rodale Institute?

I’m here to learn how to grow food through regenerative organic methods, and apply these approaches on a non-profit farm we recently founded in the Lehigh Valley. The aim is to produce nutrient-rich food to those in need, and provide educational programs on how to the broader community to live more ethically. Rodale is at the forefront of the regenerative organic movement, so I believe the RIFT program will help me build towards these goals.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?

My interests are very broad in scope because I am completely new to farming. Areas of focus are to grow a variety of foods for human consumption, both annual and perennial crops. I would like to learn multiple methodologies such as market gardening and agroforestry, among others. In order to do this well, I would need to learn soil science deeply, so this topic is definitely of high interest to me.

Farm management of finances is also a key concern. Although my institution is a non-profit 501c3, we realize our business model needs to be financially sound in order to meet the high ambition of our desired social impact, and to create job opportunities that will allow it to scale.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?

My aim is to immediately implement what I learn this year on my local community’s 11 acre non-profit farm in the Lehigh Valley that intends to nurture a true community through food and education.

Food Production: Cultivate an abundant source of organic food following the principled approach to stewardship. Our hope is to be operationally effective enough that produce can be provided at a low cost or freely to those in need. I envision this to be accomplished through subsidized CSA memberships, food pantry days, and volunteer exchange.

Education: The vision extends beyond a single farm; we aspire to offer agricultural education and hands-on training that will empower community members to provision for themselves more ethically. We are committed to support interested individuals on their journey to start their own small farm and grow food in accordance with our shared values and standards. Our objective here is to nurture community bonds, fostering a local economy rooted in service, generosity, and care for all of creation.

Location: Lehigh Valley, PA

Phone: 408.817.0067
Email: shawn.cabalsi@gmail.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cabalsi

Daniel Belt

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
My name is Daniel Belt and I am here because I want to start to restore the relationship between the land and our culture. Whether that be through just my own farm or networking with others to create a sustainable, diverse and resilient food system for the region which I come from.

I am from the Ozarks, an Army veteran formerly of the 101st Airborne and also a C.H.H.C. (Certified Holistic Health Coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition). A published author on the subject of health, my book, Unlocking Eden has sold approximately 20,000 copies. I come out of the health field for the last 20 years mainly focusing on diet and nutrition. These last years were as the head of a  supplements company making whole food, organic supplements. After spending decades in the health industry I came to the conclusion that more important than any protocol or supplement is our relationship with our food and farms which is a sacred covenant that can not be traded. That all of our health is intrinsically tied to it. I am here in that spirit.

I found out about Rodale while searching for raw materials for the supplements company I was running and developing supplements for. I saw the training program was focused on veteran training and I knew this is what I wanted to do. I have long believed deeply in regenerative agriculture and have concluded it is the future of restoring our food and soil. Further, I am dedicated to doing justice to farmers and lifting up every aspect of our lives to revalue the way we look at food and farmers so that there is a dignified and healthful future for everyone. Our food and health are the same thing. Many years ago, I helped start the 1000 Gardens Project which was to put 1000 urban farms in the city I lived in.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
My interests lie in soil remediation and generation which I want to make and sell. Tyson Foods blighted much of the land where I am from. I am also interested in (but not limited to) having an Apiary and Meadery, agroforestry, medicinal herbs and spices as well as fermented products.

Phone: 479-403-8815
Email: danielbelt74@gmail.com

Gigi Copeland

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
In November 2022 I had seen an advert on Facebook for the Rodale Institute Farmer Training program and thought at the time, if i didn’t need to worry about money, I would do this in a heartbeat.  I had been trying to farm on a small scale on my own and immediately understood how RIFT could help me be successful.  Two weeks later, I found myself out of a job and I applied for the program.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
I am working towards doing mostly perennials – herbs, berries, fruit trees, as well as cut flowers and natural dye plants for fiber arts.  In the future will expand to agroforestry as I have three acres of woods to work with on the farm.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?
I would love to be able to farm full time, but more realistically I will probably work for a few more years and then “retire” to my farm.

I am a co-owner of Boo Cat Farm, LLC and have 6.5a in the Oley Valley. The plan is to continue to expand on my property.

Location: Oley Valley, PA

Phone: 631-235-0273
Email: gigi@boocatfarm.com
Social Media: Find me on Facebook and LinkedIn as Genevieve A Copeland

Sydney Foreman

What brought you to Rodale Institute? 
Sydney Foreman is a recent graduate from Indiana University (IU) with a degree in Geography focused in food and agriculture systems. Over her baccalaureate career she studied the distribution of people, growers, food, and food acces through global commodity chains and resources. In the summer of 2022 she decided to try her hand at regenerative farming herself and did a 3 month work stay program on a diversified vegetable and livestock farm in southern Indiana. There she fell in love with the act of land stewardship and growing food for her local community. After this experience she knew that she wanted to take a pragmatic approach to her studies at IU and work to decentralize the food system while fostering a more food sovereign nation by becoming a regenerative farm and storefront owner — selling only truly locally grown and raised products. Sydney applied to the RIFT program to gain the practical growing and business skills that are central to the success of her future goals.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in? 
Sydney is interested in creating an agricultural space that can act as a role model for regenerative farming. This meaning, a space that welcomes in the community with events such as classes, book clubs, or harvest parties to facilitate conversation and idea exchange about our current food system and food sources. Spreading knowledge about food origins and sharing food sovereignty skills is at the top of Sydney’s passions for becoming a grower. On her future farm she imagines a variety of products to be grown in a market garden style including pastured hens for eggs and vegetables including popcorn, okra, peppers, berries and more. However, to begin she imagines a dried herb business as she understands the holes in the local food market and gauges community interest in certain food based classes, events, and clubs.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program? 
After graduating the RIFT program Sydney hopes to find employment with a company who values equitable food distribution, education, and advocacy for a socially responsible future of our food system. In the meantime, she hopes to find the right piece of land and community to start her small farm business.

Location: Sydney is from the midwest but is open to relocating to wherever her agricultural knowledge and passions are most needed.

Phone: (317) 210 4910
Email: sydney.agriculture@gmail.com
LinkedIn Account

Nick Henry

What brought you to Rodale Institute? 
I applied to the Rodale Institute because I want to learn a craft or trade that causes healing. Growing food using regenerative organic practices allows for this to occur.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in? 
My agricultural interests lean towards Sylvopasture, Agroforestry, Alley cropping of perennial berries, fruit trees and herbs. As well as learning everything about tractor work with wheat and grains.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program? 
I’m looking forward to starting a homestead on a few acres of family land in Gallipolis Ferry, West Virginia. In the meantime I am open to gaining experience anywhere in the world for the first few years.

Location: Gallipolis Ferry, West Virginia

Email: nickpaulh@gmail.com
Phone: 614-804-7270

Kristie Polito

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
So many stars aligned for me to land at Rodale for the 2024 farming season. A mid-life awakening on many levels so to speak.  An unsteady world, broken food system and an exit from corporate America led me to a passion in agriculture and on a skill seeking journey to self-sufficiency. First stop, Rodale Institute Farmer Training program (RIFT).

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
My agriculture interests lie in regenerative practices around soil rejuvenation, market gardening and food forestry to include permaculture design principals. My focus is on veggies, herbs and microgreens with a staple crop of garlic…lots of garlic.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?
I have so many ideas and plans after graduating from the RIFT program! I’d love to acquire sponsorship for two independent continuing educational programing projects for the RIFT 2024 cohort–ask me about both!

1.  JOY Soil Project

• Onsite Philippines
  90 Day mission to initiate soil remediation on Lynn Walker’s 20-acre farm in the Philippines
• See Lynn Walker’s bio to learn more about her farm and community mission.

2. 100 Acre Incubator Project

• A next step for this cohort to continue to work together in 2025 to implement what we’ve learned and apply to our individual farm plans.
• Pooling as a group to foster success

Next, establish “End of the Road Acres”—a retirement homestead community

• An 8-phase project to foster community, entrepreneurship and end of life care.

At the very least, I am working toward planting 1 acre of garlic this fall for a 2025 harvest—fingers crossed!

I invite you to follow my beginner farming adventures on Instagram at End of the Road Acres (@eotracres) and for anyone looking sponsor/partner with this bundle of magic or just chat it up about agriculture, email me at kp@endacres.com.

Location: My ultimate goal is Florida farming to be closer to mom but I am flexible and open to where the farming journey leads me to learn as much as I can.

Email: kp@endacres.com
Instagram: End of the Road Acres (@eotracres)

Kristen Thompson

What brought you to Rodale Institute? 
Before joining the RIFT program, I studied climate change and sustainable agriculture at school and worked in part-time and short-term farm positions while doing non-profit work. Through these experiences, I came to realize that more than supporting a movement of organic regenerative farming from a desk, I want to be on the ground working directly with the plants and soil that feed us.
Through Rodale Institute, I am learning the practical farm and business management skills I need to succeed in regenerative farming.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
I am most interested in fruit, berry, and nut crops and agroforestry systems for Northern climates. I am also exploring perennial plant propagation and medicinal herbs. Additionally, I am interested in farms as a space for educational workshops and community gatherings.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?
After graduating from the RIFT program, I plan to look for farm manager positions with organic regenerative farms whose crops and practices overlap with my mission and interests. In the long term, I hope to join or create a cooperative agroforestry farm focused on supporting the local community and climate resilience.

Location: New England

Phone: 201-245-7154
Email: kristenathompson@tutanota.com
LinkedIn Account

Garrett Tidler

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
I got into market gardening when the pandemic hit. I realized that no one around me was growing food. After a couple of years of starting seeds and get some small returns I realized that if I was ever going to become a good grower I was going to need some hands on mentorship. I found out about the RIFT program through a podcast with Jeff Moyer and one thing led to another. I look forward toward what Rodale has and will show me as I start on a new path.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
My interests mostly lie in vegetables and medicinal herbs. I would like to create a line of shelf stable products, as well as selling to chefs. I might take a small foray into cut flowers later. Since coming to Rodale I have taken an interest in agroforestry and I hope to take part in farms that are making it happen.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program? 
After RIFT I am considering applying for the fellowship program to continue to practice and improve my skills. I will start a small business soon but hope to learn as much as I can about what is happening in the industry along the way.

Location: I am currently considering three options of where my future farm will be and that includes East Tennessee, Northeast Pennsylvania, and Central Indiana. Family and being somewhere with a lot of nature are key factors for me.

Email: garrtid@gmail.com

Warlinda (Lynn) Walker 

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
My mission is to improve people’s lives in an impoverished community in the Philippines. While joining the World Bank in 2006 in Washington D.C. as an investment banker, I also started my social and economic development in the Philippines.  The immense global experiences and skills I gained are adding value to my vision.

I retired from the World Bank to fully focus on my mission in the Philippines.  We have a farm that’s over 20 acres.  For many years, I was tenaciously seeking for an organic agriculture program that fits our community needs that would help alleviate poverty through agriculture employment program, improve people’s health and regenerate our chemically degraded soil. After seeking a quality organic farming program, I found Rodale Institute through the Farmers Veterans Coalition since I’m an Air Force veteran.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
Within agriculture, I’m interested in improving our soil.  Our main crop is rice that is grown in 2 seasons per year.  The vast rice field is depressingly intoxicated with chemicals. Our farmers are so addicted to conventional resources and practices. Therefore, I want to improve our soil through cover crops, composting, energizing the microbes, and using organic pesticides.  In addition to my current vegetable production, I will expand our organic coconut, banana and moringa trees.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program? 
After graduation, I will transform my farm and share best practices of regenerative organic agriculture in the Philippines.  Since the hub of the 4-H club is in my farm, I’m now transferring knowledge to the younger generation. Furthermore, my farm has recently been designated as the organic center in my city by the Department of Agriculture. Hence, I will train about 7,000 farmers on what I learned at Rodale Institute.  Lastly, I teach children and young adults nature journaling. It’s a discipline that combines art, math, and science. I teach the participants the importance of being a good steward to the environment. With my added knowledge from Rodale Institute, I can incorporate it while teaching nature journaling to our community. Overall, my important mission covers the spectrum of healthy soil, healthy food, healthy people and healthy planet!

Phone:  202-460-6040
Email:  warlindawalker@gmail.com

James Yelverton

What brought you to Rodale Institute? 
After experiencing what real food, grown from some the richest soil on the globe, by the local indigenous people, is supposed to taste AND feel like, I began actively searching for ways and places to help me gain the knowledge and experience necessary to grow the kind of food that we’re all meant to consume.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?
Soil remediation, biodynamics, tropicals, and electroculture practices.

What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program?
I’m looking to be able to uses my ideas, along with the tools and resources gained from my time at Rodale, and implement them on any area of the planet that I feel called to go to.

Location: My desire is to land somewhere in Brazil. But, there are other parts of the world that have always been appealing to me, like India, the Caribbean, parts of Central and South America, a few European countries, and New Zealand. Domestically, I like either Florida, Oregon, or maybe California.

Email: jyelverton305@gmail.com
Instagram: @JayRio86

Robert Younkins

What brought you to Rodale Institute?
I’ve had a passion for farming since I was a teenage farm hand. I love animals especially, as do my wife and kids. Our mission is to start a homestead and supply as close to 100% of our own sustenance as possible. Rodale VFTP was an easy choice once a trusted Marine buddy recommended it to Marissa and I. I’m humbly grateful they accepted me. We plan to implement everything I’ve learned here from our trainers into an agritourism business at our homestead near Wilmington, NC.

What areas within agriculture are you most interested in?  
It’s the convergence of many things we love! I come from a military training background and Marissa is a masterful motivator and uniquely talented organizer. We absolutely LOVE helping people discover new skills and make meaningful change, while taking command of their lives. We plan to host and train individuals and groups interested in cultivating personal sovereignty via cultivating the Earth, as well as special events.

What moves you about farming? For me, that’s easy: I love cows! Despite my enthusiasm for cattle, they are most likely to happen a season or two down the rod. For now, I’m very interested in perennials! We’re getting some berries and trees in the ground right away at our new home. I’m also intent on replicating the fantastic beds of Asparagus we have here at Rodale down on our farm. Plenty of planning to do, and thankfully the RIFT program and staff are making sure we are taking a sound, businesslike approach to our ag dreams.
What are you hoping to do after graduating from the RIFT program? 
I’m interested in meeting fellow organic-minded people who aspire to kick off something meaningful and change their world.

My cell is 760-670-5200 and you can email me at rob.younkins@gmail.com—feel free to drop me a line if you ever want to shoot the breeze about farming (I have millions of questions!) or if you’re headed through Wilmington, NC. We have aspirations to build a national presence, so maybe we’ll see you in your hometown!

Location: Wilmington, NC

Phone: 760-670-5200
Email: rob.younkins@gmail.com