In this episode of the Deep Seed Podcast, we welcome Rogier Schulte, professor at Wageningen University, to discuss the groundbreaking work he’s leading in regenerative agriculture and resilient farming systems. Rogier introduces the concept of Lighthouse Farms—farms that act as beacons of innovation around the world, proving that sustainable agriculture isn’t just possible, it’s happening right now.

Learn how farms in Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Brazil are defying climate challenges by embracing complex rice systems, water resilience strategies, and agroforestry. Rogier explains why resilience is the new efficiency in modern farming, and how science is backing these real-world success stories. Whether you're interested in regenerative agriculture, ecosystem restoration, or the future of food systems, this episode dives deep into practical solutions that are already making a difference.

Key topics covered:

• The global network of Lighthouse Farms and how they’re pioneering resilient agriculture

• Examples from Indonesia, Ethiopia, and Brazil showcasing diverse, scalable approaches

• Why complexity in farming leads to greater resilience against climate and economic shocks

• The importance of science-backed regenerative farming systems

• The challenge of scaling local solutions to a global level

Join us as we explore how farmers, researchers, and innovators are redesigning the future of agriculture. Tune in now to discover how resilience, diversity, and science are shaping the farms of tomorrow!

NOTE: Rogier notified me of an error and kindly asked that we add a note here to rectify it: when talking about 'soil carbon levels' of 40-80% in peat soils, it should have been 'soil organic matter' instead.

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This podcast was produced in partnership with Soil Capital, a company that supports #regenerativeagriculture by financially rewarding farmers who improve soil health.

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Useful links:

• Lighthouse Farm Network - https://www.lighthousefarmnetwork.com/

• Wageningen University - https://www.wur.nl/en.htm

• Soil Capital - https://www.soilcapital.com/

Follow Us: Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.

• Instagram: @deep_seed_podcast

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deep-seed

• Email - raphael@deepseed.eu

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This week, we explore the science of kelp farming with Valentin, Lead Agronomist at Kelp Blue. Following up from our previous conversation, we explore how kelp farming is transforming both marine ecosystems and land-based agriculture, offering sustainable solutions for soil health, regenerative agriculture, and carbon sequestration.

Discover how Kelp Blue is harnessing the power of Macrocystis, one of the fastest-growing organisms on Earth, to produce bioactive biostimulants that enhance crop resilience and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. Valentin breaks down the innovative kelp cultivation process and the creation of products like alginate pellets that improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability—vital tools for regenerative food systems.

Key topics in this episode include:

• Marine ecosystem restoration: How kelp farming sequesters carbon and restores biodiversity.

• Kelp-based biostimulants: Natural solutions for boosting crop growth and improving soil health.

• The future of regenerative agriculture: How kelp farming bridges the gap between ocean health and sustainable farming.

• Alginate pellets: A game-changer for soil water management and resilience in extreme weather.

  
  

If you’re interested in sustainable farming practices, regenerative solutions, and the synergy between land and sea, this episode is packed with insights and innovations that will leave you inspired.

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This podcast was produced in partnership with Soil Capital, a company that supports #regenerativeagriculture by financially rewarding farmers who improve soil health.

Please help me grow the Deep Seed podcast by

1. clicking the ‘follow’ button (Spotify / Apple Podcast)

2. leaving a 5⭐️ review

Thank you 🙏

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Useful links:

• Kelp Blue - https://kelp.blue/

• Soil Capital - https://www.soilcapital.com/

Follow Us:

• Instagram: @deep_seed_podcast

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deep-seed

• Email - raphael@deepseed.eu

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Kelp Blue is a company merging marine ecosystem restoration with regenerative agriculture. Join us in a captivating conversation with Caroline Slootweg, co-founder of Kelp Blue, to learn how this innovative company uses giant kelp cultivation to foster marine biodiversity and produce natural biostimulants that support sustainable farming and soil health.

In this episode, Caroline shares her unique journey from digital marketing to marine farming, highlighting how Kelp Blue is transforming the way we think about ocean ecosystems and land agriculture. Discover how Kelp Blue is creating a regenerative food system by cultivating kelp forests in Namibia, New Zealand, and Alaska, which serve as vital carbon sinks and habitat builders while providing a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Marine Ecosystem Restoration: How Kelp Blue uses giant kelp as an ecosystem engineer to enhance marine biodiversity and sequester carbon, creating new marine habitats and supporting ocean health.

• Regenerative Agriculture and Soil Health: The science behind Kelp Blue’s natural biostimulants that improve soil health, increase crop resilience, and support the transition to sustainable and regenerative farming practices.

• Scaling Sustainable Solutions: The challenges and opportunities in scaling kelp farming globally, and the potential for kelp to become a key component in combating climate change and enhancing sustainable food systems.

• Social and Environmental Impact: Kelp Blue’s commitment to social impact by creating jobs and fostering local knowledge, and their vision for a future where business is a force for good in regenerating both ocean and land ecosystems.

  
  

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in regenerative agriculture, ecosystem restoration, and innovative solutions for a healthier planet. Tune in to be inspired by Kelp Blue’s mission and learn how they’re driving change through sustainable practices that benefit both marine and land environments.

Useful links:

• Kelp Blue - https://kelp.blue/

• Soil Capital - https://www.soilcapital.com/
  

Follow Us: Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes content.

• Instagram: @deep_seed_podcast

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deep-seed

• Email - raphael@deepseed.eu

Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.