Farm Talk with Paul Ward

Celebrating Mental Wellness: Inside Ventura County's Festival with Josh Carsman

In this episode of "On the Road with Paul Ward," Paul welcomes Josh Carsman, Director of the Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County presented by the Turning Point Foundation. Josh shares that this is the second annual festival, set to take place on the grass lawn at Ventura County Harbor Village. He discusses the festival's vision and explains the role of the Turning Point Foundation, detailing its various programs and wellness centers. Josh highlights additional services offered by Turning Point, including a Veteran House. Listeners learn what to expect at the festival, including resources for those in need, participation from the Ronald McDonald House, Camp Good Time, and Ventura County Behavioral Health. Josh emphasizes the significance of these collaborations and provides guidance on seeking help even if one cannot attend the festival.

 

Watch the full episode HERE:

What you will learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to On the Road with Paul Ward and introduction of our guest, Direct of the Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County presented by Turning Point, Josh Carsman

0:50 Josh Carsman tells us that this is the Second Annual Festival and will be held on the grass lawn at Ventura County Harbor Village

1:51 Find out about the whole vision of the Festival

2:33 What is The Turning Point Foundation that spearheads the Festival?

2:59 Find out what the Turning Point programs encompass

3:16 What is a wellness center?

4:33 Josh tells us about a Veteran House and other programs that Turning Point also offers

5:44 What can folks expect to see at the Wellness Festival and more about its participants

8:28 Anyone that needs help or has someone in their life that may need help can find resources at the Wellness Festival

9:00 The Ronald McDonald House and Camp Good Time will be present at the festival

10:13 Also included is Ventura County Behavioral Health. Josh tells us the importance of their work in conjunction with Turning Point

11:13 Find out how to seek help if you cannot attend the festival itself. 

12:41 Thank you to our Sponsor, Opus Escrow

Related Episodes:

Breaking Barriers: Inside the Wellness Center

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Mental Health

Mental Wellness Festival of Ventura County:
Mental Wellness Festival Ventura Event June 1st 2024
turningpointfoundation.org
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, Ca 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Breaking Barriers: Inside The Wellness Center

In this episode of On the Road, we welcome Tyler Nash, Program Manager of The Wellness Center in Oxnard, California. Tyler introduces us to the center's mission of providing accessible mental health services to individuals in Ventura County, particularly those who might otherwise be underserved. He explains how people find their way to The Wellness Center, emphasizing that neither insurance nor money is required to receive support. The center refers to its clients as "Members," who have the autonomy to choose how they spend their time within the clubhouse environment. The staff, known as "Peer Support Specialists," play a crucial role in supporting Members, bringing the benefit of lived experience to their interactions.

Tyler shares that while some individuals stay for a short time, others may engage with the center's services for years. Collaborations with other entities are key to helping Members reintegrate into society effectively. He delves into the origins and uniqueness of The Wellness Center concept and its connection to the peer movement at Turning Point. The center prides itself on being a judgment-free zone, which stands in contrast to the outside world.

Additionally, Tyler highlights the center's mobile services, the dynamic interaction between Members and staff, and the rigorous training involved to become a Peer Support Specialist, including WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) classes. He discusses the uniqueness of The Wellness Center as a walk-in facility in Ventura County, sustained by funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health, ensuring all services remain free for Members. Through this engaging conversation, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the vital role The Wellness Center plays in the community.

 

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to On the Road and introduction of our guest, Tyler Nash, Program Manager of The Wellness Center

0:32 The mission of The Oxnard Wellness Center is to create a space for people to receive mental health services who may not be reached in Ventura County

1:19 Find out how individuals end up at The Wellness Center

1:59 We learn that you do not need insurance or even money to receive services 

2:41 “Members,” as The Wellness Center refers to individuals receiving services, get to choose how they spend their time in the clubhouse setting

3:28 Tyler tells us that the staff is called, “Peer Support Specialists,” and tells us the benefits of having them support those currently being serviced.

5:15 Some people only stay for a short period of time, others receive services for years at The Wellness Center

5:43 How collaborations with other entities happen to ensure Members can get on track to functioning in society

7:55 The idea of The Wellness Center: Is it a new concept and how did it come together in the beginning?

9:36 Tyler tells us more about the unique value that the peer movement at Turning Point and The Wellness Center

10:59 There is no judging at The Wellness Center, which is no always the case in the outside world

11:38 A mobile version of The Wellness Center

12:43 The interaction between the members and the people that work at The Wellness Center and the training and certification involved to become a Peer Support Specialist including the WRAP classes

17:36 Is The Wellness Center and a walk-in facility something unique to Ventura County

18:08 Funding from Ventura County Behavioral Health and how it keeps it free for members and the type of individuals that come to the center

19:49 A special thank you to our sponsor, Opus escrow

 

Related Episodes:

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Wellness at Growing Works

Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope & a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

The Wellness Center:
turningpointfoundation.org
Next To Public Health - Center Point Mall
2697 Saviers Rd.
Oxnard, CA 93033
805-653-5045

 

The Turning Point Foundation:
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, CA 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Racing Through Community Spirit: The Legacy of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

In this episode of "15 Minutes with Paul Ward," we delve into the heart of community spirit with special guest Dave Drumright, a prominent figure in The Camarillo Rotary and the longstanding chairman of a local gem: The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet. Dave takes us on a journey through time, recounting the rich history of this cherished event that has graced the community for decades. From its humble beginnings to its current stature, we uncover the essence of what makes this meet so special. Dave shares insights into the intricacies of managing such an event, from the diverse range of participants to the array of activities available. We explore the event, welcoming kids in grades 4th - 8th from various local schools, we gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact it has on the children involved. As Dave walks us through the bustling atmosphere of the meet, we get a taste of the excitement and camaraderie that fills the air. From thrilling competitions to heartwarming moments, every aspect is meticulously orchestrated by Dave and his dedicated team of volunteers. We learn about the meticulous record-keeping dating back to the inaugural event in 1960 and the tradition of awarding trophies and ribbons to deserving participants. And amidst the hustle and bustle, Dave reveals the behind-the-scenes magic of managing volunteers and navigating the inevitable downtime. So join us as we uncover the magic of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet and the extraordinary community spirit that brings it to life.

Watch the full episode HERE:

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Introduction of this week’s guest: Dave Drumright of The Camarillo Rotary and the Chairman of a local and unique track meet

0:47 Dave Drumright tells us the history of 

1:27 Find out what the event is called, “The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet”

2:03 Dave has been the chairman of The Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet for 14 Years 

2:14 Who is involved in the event, what types of things are available at the event

3:13 What ages of kids can participate and what local schools participate

3:57 We learn the more about the children that are involved in the event

4:50 The activities at the Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

7:05 Date of the 2024 Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet

7:48 All the event records have been kept since the inaugural event in 1960, trophies and ribbons are awarded as well

8:45 Dave Drumright also manages all the volunteers

9:21 Hurry Up and Wait! What happens during downtime

10:08 A special Thank You to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:

Pathfinders: Cultivating Good Leaders Through the Scouting Journey

Reel Guppy Adventures: Nurturing Nature, Inspiring Youth

Harvesting Futures in Agricultural Education

2024 Hap Rapp Memorial Track Meet:
Camarillo Rotary Foundation
Adolfo Camarillo High School
4660 Mission Oaks Blvd.
Camarillo, CA  93012

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Growth Beyond Challenges: Cultivating Wellness at Growing Works

In this episode of Farm Talk, we're joined by Jenn Rodriguez, the program manager of Growing Works. Jenn kicks off the show by introducing us to Growing Works and its profound connection to the mental health community. She delves into the diverse team behind Growing Works and illuminates the process of getting started with the program.

As our conversation progresses, Jenn sheds light on the immense benefits individuals with mental health challenges experience through their work at Growing Works. She shares touching stories about the individuals who thrive in this nurturing environment and how the program is tailored to their needs. We also learn about the program's operational details, including its schedule, funding, and partnerships with organizations like Ventura County Behavioral Health and Turning Point. Throughout the episode, Jenn highlights Growing Works' impactful festivals, workshops, and its role as a beacon of hope and empowerment in the community.

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:
0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of our guest, Jenn Rodriguez, program manager of Growing Works

0:35 Jenn Rodriguez tell us what Growing Works is and what the connection is to the mental health community

1:10 Who works at Growing Works and what getting started looks like

2:36 How those with mental health challenges are benefited by working at Growing Works

3:21 Jenn tells us more about the individuals who work at Growing Works

8:25 The days and hours of the program at Growing Works is based on the contract and funding provided by Ventura County Behavioral Health.

9:03 What is Competitive Employment?

10:21 Growing Works has 2 festivals a year: Their Spring Fling and A Fall Festival

11:11 Jenn digs deeper into describing how individuals get involved at Growing Works

13:07 How Growing Works manages their employees who struggle with mental health illness

15:51 The connection between Growing Works and Turning Point

16:30 Find out if the Growing Works employees live in a Turning Point facility or if they live on their own

18:08 Other activities Growing Works has throughout the year and when Growing Works is open to the public

19:06 Who leads the workshops?

19:35 The future of Growing Works

20:58 The awesome watering system Growing Works has on their site

21:48 Where Growing Works sells and some of the clients that they work with

23:12 Jenn tells us where Growing Works receives their funding

23:52 How can people get more involved and contact information and social media for Turning Point and Growing Works

24:44 The age of Growing Works

25:26 Where the idea of mental health patients working with plants originated and what Growing works grows

26:46 Growing Works as a resource for knowledge on water conservation and much more

27:22 An amazing success story shared by Jenn

30:13 A special thank you to our sponsor, Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope & a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

Growing Works Nursery:
turningpointfoundation.org
1736 S Lewis Rd, Camarillo, Ca 93012
(805) 586-9900

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Community Compassion: Keller Williams’ Red Day and The Fisher House

In this episode of "15 Minutes with Paul Ward," we delve into the heart of community service and giving back with special guest Angelika Jedrasik from Keller Williams West Ventura County. Angelika shares insights into Red Day, a remarkable initiative by Keller Williams aimed at serving communities nationwide. She sheds light on this year's  local Keller Williams’ beneficiary, The Fisher House, explaining its vital role in providing free housing for families of veterans receiving medical care. As Angelika underscores the hyper-local nature of Keller Williams, she reveals how each office selects charities tailored to their communities' needs for Red Day. We gain a glimpse into the impactful endeavors planned by Ventura County’s Keller Williams Realtors for Red Day 2024. Furthermore, Angelika highlights essential donation items needed by The Fisher House, alongside convenient QR codes for direct contributions. The discussion turns poignant as the significance of supporting our military community and their families is emphasized. Paul and Angelika also share invaluable resources including websites for Red Day and The Fisher House, culminating in a map guiding viewers to locate Fisher Houses across the nation. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action and community support in making a difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

 

Watch the full episode HERE

 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of Keller Williams’ Angelika Jedrasik

0:38 Angelika describes Red Day

1:08 This year’s beneficiary for Red Day is The Fisher House, and Angelika tells us what the Fisher House is

2:18 Because Keller Williams is Hyper Local, each office can pick a charity to work with on Red Day that fits the needs of their individual communities

3:42 We learn what Ventura County Keller Williams realtors will be doing on Red Day 2024

4:24 Donation items needed by The Fisher House

5:04 QR Codes to donate directly

5:39 VA Hospitals are spread out and when the need arises for care, there is a strong need for places like The Fisher House to provide safe, comfortable and FREE housing for families

6:57 The need to help and give back to our Military Community and their families

8:19 Websites for Red Day and The Fisher House

8:49 A map of where to find a Fisher House

10:01 A special thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

Related Episodes:

Unveiling Humanity Through Compassion, Hope and a Costume

A Recovery Oasis at Nate’s Place

VA Loans in Today’s Economy with Chris James

Learn more about Keller Williams Red Day:
RED Day — KWRI

The Fisher House Foundation:
Home - Fisher House Foundation

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Plantopia! Seedlings for Youth Education

In this episode of "15 Minutes with Paul Ward," Paul welcomes Seth Wilmoth, a representative from SEEAG, to shed light on the exciting event, Plantopia. Seth dives into the concept of Plantopia, explaining its significance and the audience it aims to educate. Delving deeper, they discuss the origins of the seedlings sold at Plantopia and the varieties available this year. Seth also provides crucial details about the event's locations and times, emphasizing the opportunity for pre-ordering and participation in a raffle. They explore the noble cause behind Plantopia, highlighting how the proceeds are utilized and the goals set for this year's fundraiser. Additionally, they discuss the pricing of seedlings and bundles, making it accessible to all interested participants. Finally, they express gratitude to Plantel and Agromin, the sponsors who make Plantopia possible, and share essential links for further information.

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome Seth Wilmoth of SEEAG to the show

0:29 What is Plantopia?

0:55 Who is being educated by SEEAG and why are they being educated?

1:53 Who plants and grows the seedlings being sold at Plantopia?

2:25 Seth Wilmoth tells us what seedlings varieties are available at Plantopia

2:50 Seth gives details about this year’s Plantopia locations and times

4:44 Pre-Ordering, a raffle and where to pre-order

5:50 How the proceeds for Plantopia are used and what the goals are for this year’s fundraiser

7:20 Information on the cost of seedlings and bundles that can be purchased

8:35 Plantopia is made possible thanks to its sponsors: Plantel and Agromin

9:07 Seeag and Plantopia websites

9:46 Plantopia information

9:51 Thank you to our sponsor Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Harvesting Futures in Agricultural Education
Otto & Sons: The Largest Grower of Roses West of the Rockies
Reel Guppy Adventures: Nurturing Nature, Inspiring Youth

Plantopia is Hosted by SEEAG:
www.seeag.org/plantopia

How to reach Paul:
paul@homeandranchteam.com
805-479-5004 

Check out our featured listings as well as other properties for sale in the area:
Homeandranchteam.com 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Vital Vet Tales: Unveiling Holistic Animal Care with Dr. Rhiannon Fenton

Join us on this episode of Farm Talk as we welcome Dr. Rhiannon Fenton, a Holistic Veterinary Medicine Specialist. Dr. Fenton enlightens us on the differences between traditional veterinarians and holistic practitioners, showcasing the diverse tools in her diagnostic arsenal through an example of diagnosing a liver issue.

We delve into the realm of holistic care for animals, exploring chiropractic and acupuncture treatments, alongside unique diagnostic methods like muscle testing. Dr. Fenton shares her journey into holistic veterinary care, emphasizing the importance of educating pet owners and dispelling misinformation. Tune in as we discuss preventative tips for common ailments like colic in horses and glimpse into the future of Vital Equine Veterinary Medicine.

Watch the Full Episode HERE

 

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to the show and introduction of guest: Dr Rhiannon Fenton

0:27 What is the difference between a Veterinarian and a Holistic Veterinary Medicine Specialist

2:51 Dr. Fenton gives us an example of a liver issue

3:20 People come to Dr. Fenton for one thing and find out that what’s wrong is something totally different and an explanation of things a holistic vet has in their “toolbox” to diagnose and treat patients

4:48 Chiropractic and acupuncture for horses is the same as for humans

6:07 How to determine that your pet has a problem

7:02 Paul describes a scenario with a dog brought to Dr. Fenton and she tells us how she treated the dog using “Muscle Testing” and chiropractic care

10:08 What drove Dr. Fenton to take this path of holistic veterinary care

11:30 Dr. Fenton knew from the age of 5 that she wanted to be a vet

12:23 Dr. Fenton has written multiple articles

12:41 Dr. Fenton tells us about how a horses’ nose is important to their vitality and wellness

13:44 Educating people all the time about the nostrils and the article Dr. Fenton wrote

15:02 How Dr Fenton handles it when people come to her almost as a “last resort”

16:32 Describing a few conditions that animals may have and how she plays “detective” to figure these things out

20:29 The #1 cause of death in horses is Colic and preventative tips

24:25 An Adalusian horse is diagnosed with multiple conditions

25:13 Dr. Fenton explains why and what happens if someone follows the advice they read in generic articles

28:18 Does following misinformation make things worse?

29:13 Getting the word out

29:41 The future of Vital Equine Veterinary Medicine

30:36 Paul asks about Rhiannon’s name

31:15 What kind of clientele does Dr. Fenton have and her territory covered

32:05 A special Thank you to our sponsor Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
All Dogs Rule in Fillmore, CA
Horse, Heart and Connection: Equine Facilitated Learning

 

Vital Equine Holistic Veterinary Medicine:
Dr Rhiannon Fenton
Text/Call: 310-800-1495
Mailing Address: PO Box 9281 Calabasas, CA 91372
www.vitalequine.us

 

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Constructing Your Home Buying Path

Join us for an engaging episode of '15 Minutes with Paul Ward' where we explore the intricacies of the real estate market. In this enlightening conversation, Paul Ward, a seasoned real estate expert, delves into the comparison between purchasing an existing home and embarking on the adventure of constructing a custom home. Drawing from his extensive knowledge of Ventura County's diverse neighborhoods, Paul illuminates the advantages and drawbacks of each route, offering valuable guidance to help you make a well-informed decision tailored to your individual needs and aspirations. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply intrigued by Ventura County's dynamic housing landscape, this episode guarantees to equip you with invaluable insights to navigate your real estate ventures effectively. From discussing the costs and permitting process of building to the importance of factors like distance to utilities and soils testing, Paul provides comprehensive advice that will empower you in your housing journey.

 

Watch the full episode HERE

What you will learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to the Show
0:11 Today we will discuss whether you Should Buy a House or Build a House
0:32 If you’re buying a house, you can expect these things
0:47 If you’re building a house, you can expect these things
1:15 Considerations when Building
1:20 Building Cost and how to calculate an estimate of total cost
1:48 The Permitting Process and what it entails
3:11 Distance to Utilities and the importance of this
4:00 Why is the Fire Department important when building a home?
5:27 Soils testing: Why is it necessary and what to expect
6:13 Caissons and why these are important in your build
6:30 Cost of Construction vs Value of home once build is done
7:36 Is it worth it to build?
7:58 If the idea is to save money- what’s better? Paul even mentions “Fixer Uppers”
8:41 Paul’s final thoughts on Building Dreams or Buying History
9:07 Contact Paul via email: paul@homeandranchteam.com
9:12 Thank you to our sponsor: Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:
Where Are Real Estate Prices Headed in Ventura County?
Zoning Laws and Permits in Ventura County, CA
First Time Home Buyer Specialist Marianne Caprino 

 

How to reach Paul:
paul@homeandranchteam.com
805-479-5004 

 

Check out our featured listings as well as other properties for sale in the area: www.Homeandranchteam.com 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

Farm-to-Table-Feast: Nourishing Minds and Bodies

🌾🍴 Step right up, farmers and foodies alike! It's lunchtime on Farm Talk, and let me tell you, today's episode is a feast for the senses! Join Paul as he embarks on a culinary adventure like no other, delving into the world of wholesome, farm-fresh goodness with none other than the remarkable Hilary Boynton.

Picture this: nestled in the heart of Topanga Canyon lies the Manzanita School, where Hilary reigns supreme over a lunch program that's anything but ordinary. Bid farewell to bland PBJ sandwiches and bland tater tots, because Hilary's culinary creations are a symphony of flavor and tradition. Sourdough bread, lovingly fermented and baked on-site, awaits, accompanied by generous slathers of golden ghee, slow-roasted pork shoulder, and vibrant swiss chard.

But that's just the beginning of Hilary's epicurean odyssey. Drawing inspiration from ancient traditions and culinary wisdom from around the globe, she crafts meals that not only satisfy hunger but nourish body and soul. Every ingredient is handpicked from local farms, including the esteemed Organic Pastures, Kandarian Organic Farms, and the illustrious Apricot Lane Farms, ensuring that every bite is bursting with freshness and flavor.

But Hilary's mission goes beyond just serving up sensational meals. With a passion for education as robust as her flavors, she offers immersive cooking classes that empower students to embrace the art of mindful eating and conscious cooking. Because as Hilary believes, when you know better, you do better.

So grab your forks and knives, folks, because today's lunch is a celebration of community, sustainability, and the timeless joy of good food. Don't miss out on this mouthwatering journey with Hilary Boynton on Farm Talk! 🌱🍽️

 

Catch Hilary’s contagious energy and enjoy the episode!

 

Related Links:

Learn more about School of Lunch https://www.schooloflunch.com/

Purchase Hilary’s book http://www.healyourgutcookbook.com/

Manzanita School in Topanga Canyon https://manzanitaschool.org/

 

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Farm Talk with Paul Ward podcast wherever you get your favorite podcasts and enjoy episodes on the go!

 

WARNING: miscarriage content

 

In this episode you’ll learn:

0:00 Thanks to Hilary Boynton and the Manzanita School for hosting Paul Ward. Thank you to our sponsors that make Farm Talk possible.

0:28 Where the Manzanita School is located

1:24 The founding of School of Lunch and the importance of nutrient density

6:29 The GAPS diet - the gut/brain connection

7:31 Hilary writes a cookbook with Mary Brackett - The Heal Your Gut Cookbook

8:54 Inspiration behind the traditional and seasonal recipes

10:05 Sourcing local ingredients

12:50 An average day feeding 175 students at the Manzanita School

16:14 Incorporating traditions from many cultures into the food served at the school

18:46 Children participate in creating and enjoying new foods

20:06 Incorporating parents into the curriculum

21:53 Hilary’s Training Academy to help people learn how to cook real food

22:35 Manzanita School students grow and eat their own food

24:00 Expanding the School of Lunch program to other schools

26:43 The paradox of being overfed and undernourished

 

Related Episodes:

Pathfinders: Cultivating Leaders through the Scouting Journey 

Reel Guppy Adventures: Nurturing Nature, Inspiring Youth

Harvesting Futures in Agricultural Education

 

Contact Paul Ward:

805-479-5004

paul@homeandranchteam.com

 

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsors! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsors ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.

 

Preserving Paradise with Ventura Land Trust

In this episode of Farm Talk with Paul Ward, we welcome special guests from Ventura Land Trust, Director Melissa Baffa and Deputy Director Dan Holst. They shed light on the mission and operations of Ventura Land Trust, beginning with its inception and the driving force behind its establishment. As Melissa and Dan delve into the intricacies of land preservation, listeners gain insight into the multifaceted efforts involved in managing and conserving natural landscapes. From addressing homelessness issues on preserves to balancing human recreation with wildlife conservation, Ventura Land Trust's approach emerges as a dynamic blend of stewardship and community engagement. The discussion spans topics such as volunteerism, habitat protection, and combating invasive species, illustrating the organization's comprehensive commitment to environmental sustainability. Melissa and Dan also highlight Ventura Land Trust's distinctive features, including its diverse staff, educational programs, and innovative initiatives like the 30 by 30 Initiative. Throughout the episode, they emphasize the vital role of public awareness and participation in safeguarding local ecosystems. As the conversation draws to a close, listeners are encouraged to explore Ventura Land Trust's website and social media platforms to learn more about their impactful work and ways to get involved in preserving the natural beauty of Ventura County.

Watch the full episode HERE

What you’ll learn in this episode:

0:00 Welcome to the show and to our guests from Ventura Land Trust: Director Melissa Baffa and Deputy Director Dan Holst

0:29 What is Ventura Land Trust?

1:10 What was the impetus for Ventura Land Trust?

2:10 Find out what’s involved when a piece of land is located that should be preserved

3:36 Melissa Baffa tells us about other preserves that Ventura Land Trust has

4:42 Dan discusses the homelessness component on the Willoughby Preserve and how that is also a big part of managing that preserve.

6:30 The delicate balance between preserving the land and cleaning up the “homes” of the homeless and even helping facilitate their hopes and aspirations

7:27 Find out how a preserve managed by a nonprofit organization differs from a park

8:06 Become a member of the Ventura Land Trust and learn how your membership fee helps

9:12 Melissa explains the balance between human and dog recreation and wildlife on the preserves

11:03 Dan talks about promoting a responsible recreational culture and

providing publicly accessible open space, but also conserving wildlife habitat and how science plays a role in all of that

12:30 How a strong Volunteer Docent Corps helps with the mission of Ventura Land Trust and an invitation to become a volunteer

13:43 The diverse staff that Ventura Land Trust has and different programs they offer

15:37 Some of the ways people can get involved in what happens with Ventura Land Trust and at the preserves

16:57 Melissa tells us about the donor wall created with a local artist, Tyronne McGrath for the Capital Campaign and gives us the website to be a part of this amazing creation

18:34 Dan describes the variety of habitat types that are protected by Ventura Land Trust and the different size preserves they hold

19:54 New invasive species are inadvertently introduced to the preserves everyday and educating the public on how to avoid it happening

20:51 Passive restoration of invasive species and how Boy Scout Troop 111 helps to remove the invasive species on the preserve

22:55 How conservation efforts keep animals and plants on the preserves and the need for animals to roam freely

26:04 What is the dedicated area of interest for Ventura Land Trust and what the future looks like for that focus area, including the 30 by 30 Initiative and Biodiversity

28:50 Melissa and Dan tell us what makes Ventura Land Trust stand out amongst other land trusts as well as the importance of neighbor outreach

30:29 How Mother Nature and climate change impacts the preserve

34:01 How to learn more about Ventura Land Trust on social media and their website

34:38 A special thank you to our sponsor Opus Escrow

 

Related Episodes:

Pathfinders: Cultivating Leaders Through the Scouting Journey

Harvesting Futures in Agricultural Education

Holy Guacamole! Sustainable Farming and Soil Health at Petty Ranch

 

Ventura Land Trust:
Phone: 805-643-8044
Email: info@venturalandtrust.org
Mailing Address: PO Box 1284 Ventura, CA 93002
Office Address: 3452 Foothill Rd Ste 201 Ventura, CA 93003
www.venturalandtrust.org

Contact Paul Ward:
805-479-5004
paul@homeandranchteam.com

Have ideas for future episodes? We'd love to answer your questions - leave a comment! For any home buying or home selling needs in the Ventura County area of California, please reach out to Paul@HomeAndRanchTeam.com or visit www.HomeAndRanchTeam.com

 

A special THANK YOU to our sponsor, OPUS ESCROW! Farm Talk with Paul Ward would not be possible without the support of our sponsor Opus Escrow. Supporting our sponsor ensures Farm Talk can provide listeners with the best possible episodes.