We already know regenerative practices work all around the globe leading to healthier food, better farmer finances, stronger local communities, and a brighter future. But what about the animals? Are they better off?

In this episode of The Peter Byck Show, Peter catches up with Roots So Deep science team member Dr. Janice Swanson. Dr. Swanson has provided scientific service to government, industry and scientific animal welfare advisory committees including: the United Egg Producers, McDonalds, Food Marketing Institute, Bob Evans, Darden, Leprino Foods and Tysons. She was co-chair of the scientific revision leading to the third edition of the Federation of Animal Science Societies Guide for the Care and Use of Agricultural Animals in Research and Teaching, chairs the taskforce charged with the annual review and revision of the Michigan Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices for the Care of Farm Animals administered under the Michigan Right to Farm Act, and recently served as the scientific co-director of the Coalition for Sustainable Egg Supply Project.

As a Co-Principal Investigator for our Roots So Deep research team, Janice observed the animal welfare on all five of our farm pairs - and discovered yet another benefit to AMP grazing: healthier, happier animals. When livestock are allowed to live lives in harmony with nature, we can all feel better about where our food is coming from. We’ve even heard from vegans that say this kind of animal agriculture is something they can support!

"When you stand on healthy soil, there's a universe beneath your feet."

Way back in 2023, CNN's Bill Weir reported on the launch of the Hometown Roadshow. As the chief climate correspondent, Bill had heard lots of folks claim cows were "eco-villains."

Luckily, he was open minded enough to listen to the most recent research. Over the years, Bill has been a consistent champion of regenerative agriculture - even including it in his book "Life As We Know It (Can Be)."

We often hear the question "how do we make regenerative agriculture mainstream?" We think voices like Bill's, supported by serious science and storytelling, is a big part of that puzzle.

"When you stand on healthy soil, there's a universe beneath your feet."

James Rebanks loves small farmers, and the struggles they face break his heart. That’s why he wants every farmer to know the incredible benefits of AMP grazing.

James' books "The Shepherd's Life" and "English Pastoral" have encouraged farmers from all over the world to consider working with nature. But did you know he counts legends like Allen Williams, Greg Judy, and Gabe Brown as his mentors?

As a multi-generational shepherd from the UK raising cattle and sheep on his ancestral land with new techniques, James has become a powerful champion of AMP grazing all over the world.

During Peter's conversation, James shares his passion for rural communities, the challenges we face spreading our shared message of hope, and just how incredible life can be when you work with nature instead of fighting it.

"When you stand on healthy soil, there's a universe beneath your feet."