Edible Activist Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Chi Walker—creative force, culinary curator, and one-half of the duo behind Fried Chicken and Caviar, the pop-up redefining what luxury looks and tastes like through a soulful, intentional lens. Chi invites us into her world of flavor, storytelling, and cultural reclamation, where ancestral roots meet culinary innovation. We explore the inspiration behind the name Fried Chicken and Caviar, the duality it represents in Black culinary traditions, and what it means to create elevated dining experiences that honor soul, heritage, and community. From spring garden influences to family food memories, Chi shares how her dishes become vessels for joy, resistance, and reimagined narratives. This is more than a conversation about food—it's about presence, power, and claiming space at the table.

In this episode, we're joined once again by LaMonika Jones, Director of State Initiatives at the Food Research & Action Center, for a food policy update. LaMonika breaks down key threats to SNAP at the federal level, offers insight into where we are in D.C.'s local budget process, and unpacks the broader impacts these decisions have on families. Together, we explore what's at stake and how community members can take action. Disclaimer: This episode was recorded prior to the most recent federal updates to SNAP.

Meet Kizzy Anderson James—a fierce spirit cultivating community, creativity, and flavor straight from the soil. In this episode of Edible Activist, host Melissa L. Jones welcomes the dynamic force behind Anderson James Farm. Kizzy is an urban farmer, disabled veteran, chicken mama, and storyteller whose journey from military service to farm life is as inspiring as it is impactful. Together, they explore the roots of her entrepreneurial path, the power of raising chickens in the city, and how she fuses creativity into everything from her crops to her kitchen. Kizzy also shares memories of the family cooks who shaped her and the farm-fresh meals that keep her connected to her purpose.

In this episode, we sit down with Tamara, the founder of Great Mother Garden Solutions, to explore the deep roots of land stewardship and herbal wisdom. From ancestral influences to the decision to grow her own herbs, she shares her journey of reconnecting with the earth. We unpack the overlooked healing power of dandelions, discover her favorite herbs for everyday use, and hear her heartfelt advice for aspiring growers looking to cultivate their own herbal gardens. Whether you're a seasoned grower or a curious beginner, this conversation is full of grounded insights and inspiration straight from the soil.

In this episode, we explore the rich tapestry of Black foodways with Josmine Evans, founder of Indigo Culinary & Co. As a cultural preservationist, chef, and storyteller, Josmine is on a mission to honor the culinary traditions of the African diaspora—one spice blend, one dish, and one story at a time. She shares how her travels across the African Atlantic have deepened her understanding of ancestral foodways and how her work with The Joy Project is helping to reclaim and celebrate these legacies. From preserving Black culinary traditions to using food as a form of resistance, Josmine invites us into a powerful conversation about seasoning, storytelling, and the liberation found at the table.

In this episode of Edible Activist, we're joined by Olivia and Deja, co-Hub leaders of Black Girl Environmentalist DC. Focused on fostering an inclusive climate movement, they organize events in the District and surrounding areas to connect Black women to nature and environmental justice work. Tune in as they share the story behind Black Girl Environmentalist, their efforts to shift narratives, and what environmental justice looks like when led by Black and Brown communities.

As we step into March, I'm reflecting on what it means to march forward—with purpose, even when the ground beneath us feels unsteady. In this episode, I share thoughts on resistance, the quiet ways we push back, and why rest is just as important as the fight. Plus, I'm talking about my plans to reclaim the outdoors and an upcoming event you don't want to miss—the Taking Nature Black conference. Let's keep marching, y'all. Stay rooted, stay present, and let's move forward together.

In this episode of Edible Activist, we're kicking off the year with a powerful conversation about Taking Nature Black, a conference dedicated to celebrating Black leadership in the environmental movement.

Join me as I reflect on 2024—celebrating Edible Activist's key milestones, and the exciting journey ahead in amplifying Black voices in growing spaces.

Catch the full live episode on YouTube to experience the energy firsthand! Tune in for an inspiring celebration of resilience, community, and the legacy of "The People's Farmer."https://youtu.be/3jE_6OSPJA0

In this episode, we sit down with Najee Ellerbe, founder of Everybody's Juice, to explore the journey behind his growing health-focused business. We revisit his origin story, building on his previous appearance in Episode #56, and discuss the biggest lessons he's learned along the way. Najee also shares the benefits of ashwagandha, a supplement he offers through Everybody's Juice, which played a key role in his own healing journey. Finally, he explains how he integrated HSA/FSA into his business model to make healthy juice more affordable and accessible.

In this episode of Edible Activist, we welcome back LaMonika Jones, Executive Director of DC Hunger Solutions, to discuss the latest updates on SNAP benefits, focusing on the changes with Give SNAP a Raise and its impact on families in the District. We'll also delve into the Farm Bill, highlighting the importance of finalizing legislation that supports all aspects of the food ecosystem. Tune in for these essential updates!

In this episode, students from the Youth Entrepreneurship Cooperative at Common Good City Farm take the lead, sharing their experiences exploring urban farming, food systems, and small business entrepreneurship. Through their initiative, "Youth Common Agrowments," the teens developed community agreements to address local challenges and created their own hot sauce brand, "Hot Topic." Focused on raising the wage floor for youth and advocating for their future, this mission-driven project highlights the power of youth leadership. Listen as these teens discuss how they're cultivating change in their community through growth, agriculture, and entrepreneurship.

We sit down with Farmer Wes, aka The Compost King, as he shares his inspiring journey and entrepreneurial legacy from his roots to his current role in urban agriculture. Explore his early agricultural experiences in Trinidad, from knocking down mangoes with bamboo shoots as a child, to his transformative journey through the Regenerative Agriculture Certificate program at Common Good City Farm. Wes unpacks the essentials of composting, its importance for growing healthy food, and what farming has looked like during this sweltering summer. Plus, get an insider's look at his involvement in other food justice initiatives and find out his top vegetable and fruit pick of the season. Tune in!

Disclaimer: We are not lawyers and are sharing personal experiences. For legal assistance with heirs property, please consult a lawyer.

https://www.seedsofblackness.com/grouptravel

Join us on this episode as we welcome Carmen and Kara, the dynamic duo behind Prosperity Market LA—a unique farmers market on wheels and food truck that features Black farmers, food producers, and chefs, bringing a curated market experience to the diverse communities of Los Angeles. Discover their inspiring origin story and how they joined forces to revolutionize LA's food scene. We explore the challenges of food access in the city and how Prosperity Market LA is making a tangible impact on the local community. Carmen and Kara share their vision for the future, discuss the opportunities and hurdles of their innovative business model, and delve into sustaining Black businesses and the resources needed for economic stability. Plus, they highlight influential Black women who have significantly supported their journey. Tune in for an enlightening and empowering conversation! Be sure to follow @prosperitymarketla journey on instagram!

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey behind OlaLekan Farm with its founder, Farmer Tolu. Named in honor of her grandparents, the farm is a symbol of wealth, joy, and honor, impacting food access and cultural preservation in the DC area. Discover how her personal heritage shapes the farm's mission, the fascinating process of growing ginger, and the significance of other culturally important crops. We'll also discuss the challenges of climate change on farming and share actionable steps individuals can take to support food equity. Don't miss this engaging and enlightening conversation!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with farmer and Navy veteran Monica Newman as we explore her remarkable journey from archaeological technician to seed company founder. Discover how her quest to reconnect with her ancestry led her to forge a deep bond with the land and start a company dedicated to preserving tradition. We'll hear her passion for seed saving and the rich stories these seeds hold. We'll also discuss her current role as the director of an agricultural leadership initiative and reflect on the outstanding Black Agrarian Food Tour she helped orchestrate. This interview is packed with so much more. Don't miss this veteran's extraordinary transition to the soil in our upcoming episode!

Join us on our podcast as we catch up with Dominique Charles of Plots & Pans and dive into her latest adventures. We fondly reminisce about her Louisiana upbringing, sharing cherished memories of bonding over tractor rides with her grandad. Dominique generously imparts valuable gardening advice tailored for enthusiasts gearing up for the season. And to add some flavor to the mix, she shares delectable recipes straight from her kitchen, along with her favorite garden delights (get ready for a garden party!). We spotlight the concept of homegrown, celebrating the incredible contributions of black women in food & agriculture, with a special tribute to Dominique's role model, B. Smith. Plus, join in the excitement as Dominique returns to the Today Show, sharing her gardening expertise with a wide audience. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, inspiration, and a sprinkle of culinary delights!

Join us for an in-depth conversation with returning guest LaMonika Jones of DC Hunger Solutions, as we celebrate the victories in DC's battle against hunger with initiatives like Hear the Crunch and Give Snap a Raise. Explore the challenges facing the DC food and health system in the FY25 budget, and discover practical steps for residents and advocates to effect change. We'll then conclude with LaMonika shining a spotlight on influential black women in the field. Don't miss this enlightening discussion about cultivating a healthier, more equitable DC community.

During this exclusive episode of The Edible Activist Live Podcast event, we opened our studio doors to welcome guests into a vibrant, in-person dialogue celebrating HOMEGROWN – paying tribute to the black women growers, farmers, and food activists who shape our communities. We had the privilege of interviewing none other than Falani Spivey of Byrd's Nest Box, delving into her journey rooted in homegrown traditions and the pioneering women who have influenced her farming practices. From candid discussions on the essence of homegrown in DC and North Carolina to heartfelt tributes to the matriarchal cooks in her family, this conversation is one that resonates deeply. Tune in to join the celebration and honor the incredible contributions of black women agrarians.

Beauty Blooms Farmhttps://www.beautyblooms.org/

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Ashley Drakeford, the visionary behind Capital Market in Capital Heights, MD. With roots spanning six generations in Prince George's County, Ashley's profound commitment to community and social impact shines through her work. Discover how her family history shapes the mission of Capital Market, situated near the site where her ancestors were enslaved, and explore its sustainable approach to addressing food inequality. Ashley shares her daily responsibilities as market organizer and co-owner, along with her plans to expand access to fresh, healthy foods in Prince George's County and beyond. Don't miss this dynamic conversation on community resilience, social justice, and grassroots initiatives with Ashley Drakeford.

Edible Activist launches its exciting 2024 season with a dope episode featuring Maryland native, Sean's Veggie Garden! Sean, a passionate grower and pepper master, is renowned as the ultimate watermelon connoisseur. Join us as hosts Melissa and Falani explore Sean's journey into the world of food cultivation, his deep affection for crabbing, and the sprinkling of nostalgic home-cooked memories. Tune in for a heartwarming and engaging conversation! Be sure to follow us on Instragam: @foodtalksncolor Sean's Veggie Garden: @seans_veggie_garden

Join us as we chat with Juliet "JuJu" Harris, a culinary expert and organic gardener. Inspired by her father's successful management of health conditions through diet and exercise, JuJu emphasizes the accessibility of preparing affordable, healthy meals, drawing on her experiences as a self-taught cook and recipient of food assistance benefits. Culinary education takes center stage in JuJu's work, recognized as a transformative tool for expanding food access and community health. Her community cooking classes address practical topics like eating well on a budget and post-partum nutrition, providing invaluable advice for new mothers. JuJu's cookbook, "Healthy and Homemade: Eating Well On A Budget," now in its third edition, has evolved to meet the dynamic needs of her audience. Discover more about JuJu Harris and her mission at www.nanajujurocksfood.com. Tune in for a enlightening discussion on the synergy of health, food, and community in this episode of Edible Activist!

Join us for this episode as we welcome LaMonika Jones as the new director at DC Hunger Solutions. LaMonika shares her journey combating hunger in Washington, D.C., stressing the importance of avoiding silos in food and advocating for a comprehensive system approach. Our conversation explores the intersection of agriculture in her ambitious agenda, shedding light on the essence of ending hunger. LaMonika passionately emphasizes collaboration, highlighting the significance of working with local officials, advocates, organizational partners, and the community. Join us as we connect the dots between activism, agriculture, and the relentless pursuit of ending hunger in the dynamic landscape of our nation's capital. Let's dive into this insightful dialogue without further ado!

Step into the world of "The People's Market" with us in this episode! Meet the visionary founder, Brandon Starkes, who is reshaping the game with a subscription-based food delivery service sourcing from local black farms and artisans in DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Join us for a lively conversation that takes you to Brandon's roots in Prince George's County, where a deep love for agriculture was nurtured by the wisdom of his great grandmother. But we're not stopping there! We'll also dive into the challenges of accessing premium groceries in suburban neighborhoods, explore the variety of products you can find in their subscription box, and unveil the fascinating process of producing over 100 produce boxes every single week. Tune in now and get ready to be inspired by this incredible journey! ----- To ensure you never miss an episode, subscribe to Edible Activist on iTunes and Spotify, and follow us on Instagram: @foodtalksncolor.com for episode drops. For an in-depth look at The People's Market, visit: https://www.thepeoplesmarketdmv.com/

Xavier's Top Recommended Reads for Black Food Organizers and Advocates:Black Rice by Judith A. Carney Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler In the Shadow of Slavery: Africa's Botanical Legacy in the Atlantic World by Judith A. Carney & Richard Nicholas Rosomoff Healing Wisdom of Africa by Malinda Patrice Some Of Water and the Spirit: Ritual, Magic and the Initiation in the Life of an African Shaman by Malinda Patrice Some Ella Baker & the Black Freedom Movement: A Radical Democratic Vision by Barbara Ransby Land Justice: Re-imaging Land, Food, and the Commons in the United States Land & Power: Sustainable Agriculture and African Americans, by Various Authors & Editors Collective Courage: A History of African American Cooperative Economic Thought and Practice Freedom Farmers: Agriculture Resistance and the Black Freedom Movement by Dr. Monica M. White Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer The Will to Change: Men, Masculinity, and Love by bell hooks As in the Heart, So in the Earth : Reversing the Desertification of the Soul and the Soil by Pierre Rabhi 

In this episode, Tennessee native, Jarren Hill-Lockridge, also known as the "Woman from the Well '' shares her story and commitment to the Great Ward 8 in Southeast Washington, DC to prioritize health and wellness for the residents. As an advocate for her community, Jarren serves on the Ward 8 Health Council and also helped to build a green space project in Southeast centered around homegrown, local food and wellness. Tap in and listen to Jarren's journey that led her from the south to Chocolate City and the work that she has done to make wellness accessible and equitable.

Sweet July, featuring Brittney Bell Surrat: https://sweetjuly.com/editorial/to-save-her-familys-land-this-communications-professional-became-a-farmer/

We are celebrating Women's History month with another episode of Cuzzin' Talk featuring a special guest and the original cousin - Chrissy Sheffey of Charismatic Creations. In this episode we celebrate the accomplishments of one another as creative-preneurs and growing together to make an impact on people and communities. Tune in to hear the inspiration behind Chrissy's Earth Day Weekend events, the importance of connections, our shout outs to other amazing women in food and agriculture and all the laughs and jokes that the cuzzins share in this living room conversation!

Remember Jay-Z's line "nobody wins when the family feuds" in the acclaimed 4:44 album? Well, when family fights over land it can get downright ugly! The cuzzin's Melissa L. Jones and Falani Spivey of Byrd's Nest Box dive right on in and open up about their personal challenges in attempting to acquire land within the family. Falani points out that when we often discuss land loss, many refer to the discriminatory USDA practices, imminent domain, and other racist acts that have swindled black families out of their land, but we forget about the internal family feuds that result in land loss as well. Tune in for this lively Cuzzin' Talk episode!

Melissa L. Jones of the Edible Activist Podcast and Founder, Falani Spivey of Byrd's Nest Box kick off a series of new episodes called Cuzzin' Talk. Both having come from large families who hail from the South, the two always call each other cuzzin' jokingly and swap family stories. Listeners can expect for us to talk about our family traditions, kitchen recipes that grandma and auntie handed down, our family lineage, travels to the South where we unearth so much rich history, and all the things that cuzzin's do best...we share a lot information with each other. This new episode introduces the series and we also get to learn about a huge dinner that Falani curated for her family and ancestors down in North Carolina. Tune in! *This recording was taped at The Line Hotel DC. New episodes will begin in January 2023*

Alexes Haggins, the Owner of Flowers by Alexes, spent a significant part of her childhood working at her dad's floral business on Upshur Street in Northwest, Washington, DC. The Washingtonian remembers being planted at the shop, surrounded by an abundance of flowers, wishing she was playing outside with her friends instead in their Uptown neighborhood. However, this is where Alexes would learn how to clean flowers and witness her dad wear his entrepreneurs hat. Alexes' story is one filled with humble beginnings and reclamation - an inspiring journey that has positioned her to continue her father's legacy by reestablishing the business on the very same street, almost two decades later. Tune into this remarkable episode! This episode was recorded live at The Line Hotel DC.

Melissa sits down in an exclusive interview with Chris Riddick of Afro Beets - the first time Melissa is ever interviewed by a media platform (and a black one at that)! In this episode Chris taps into her origin story, unearths her Mississippi roots and childhood, talks challenges of being a creator, and all-things Edible Activist (her podcast) and health justice. Tune in! This episode was recorded live at The Line Hotel DC. Who was Melissa before and after the podcast? What did you learn about your linage in reconnecting to your Mississippi roots? What are some ways your past jobs and career path translated to what you do with the edible activist podcast? Why was it so important for you to bring the visuals to the podcast? What would you have done differently in the past if you knew what you know now? What part do economics play in liberating the land and our people? What are some common themes you hear across interviewing people? What's skills in agriculture and the land have you both picked up and haven't quite nailed down yet since episode 1? What is your biggest frustration and current needs with the podcast? What media, moments or movements has been inspiring you lately? What does it mean for you to be apart of the African Diaspora?

In this episode we talk with Shanice Fleming, founder of Queenz Cut Flower Farm based in Troy, NY to discuss her floral business. She details her ten-year experience working as a chef, talks about resources needed to scale her business, and educates us on the flower business. To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)

In this episode we catch up with Ronnie Webb, Founder of The Green Scheme (@thegreenscheme), on his team's latest project: Corner Water! They are on a mission to provide premium natural alkaline water to communities who don't have equitable access and help youth learn the core pillars to social entrepreneurship. To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)

Foraging while black, wild energy and agroforestry? You will hear it all here as Prince George's County native and naturalist-at-heart, Ruth Tyson, details her foraging experience in this episode and how she began the journey. Ruth also educates listeners on agroforestry and the various types, in addition to sharing some of the research she has been conducting with farmers of color in hopes to expand more opportunities in this space. To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)

Rey Vanderpool is a registered dietitian nutritionist and owner of Insight Nutrition where they use an Integrative and Functional Nutrition (IFN) approach to nutrition counseling and therapy. In this episode, Rey kicks off the show sharing their health story that led to a field of study in nutrition. We also talk about ancestral foods, healing through farming, and Rey drops a few edible acts for our listeners. Subscribe and tune in! To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)

A dreamy garden in Detroit? Ask Marilyn who is the creator of Griffin Gardens - a three lot garden oasis that started as a blank slate and gift from her dad. In the last year, Marilyn has cultivated a beautiful green space filled with florals, pollinators, vegetables, and most importantly, community. In this amazing and fun episode, Marilyn talks about how she expanded her garden from one vacant lot with the help of key Detroit partners, along with some of the challenges she faced in acquiring two additional lots. We also chat about amazing experiences that have taken place at the garden and what continues to be her why. To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)

Cities can transform how we improve our food system and Ribka Getachew, Director of the NY Good Food Purchasing Program (GFPP) Campaign, joined our show to share just how! Ribka is a long-time organizer and food justice advocate who has been leading this campaign in New York City that serves as a game-changer for the procurement process within local government. The activist talks us through the campaign and how it would address longstanding systemic issues while centering values that support the local food economy and an ethical food buying process. To watch the live episode, subscribe to Food Talks N Color on YouTube! Like, comment and share:)