Small-Scale Farming Is The Coolest Counterculture Of Our Time
with Jean-Martin Fortier
About this episode
In this heartfelt solo episode, Jean-Martin Fortier reflects on the idea that small-scale farming is the true counterculture of today; a colorful, creative, and deeply rooted way of life that stands in contrast to mainstream consumerism and the obsession with wealth. He explores three key pillars: culture, diversity, and resiliency, highlighting how small farms foster biodiversity, preserve tradition, and offer an authentic alternative to homogenized food systems.
JM shares his personal journey and observations from farms around the world, emphasizing that these local, human-scale farms are not only feeding communities but also nurturing ecosystems. This is an uplifting, passionate tribute to the global movement of growers fighting back with resilience, creativity, and community.
[0:00] When did it become cool to get rich? Reflections on what “being cool” used to mean.
[4:31] Why small-scale farming is the ultimate counterculture today.
[8:06] Farms as colorful, original spaces that resist mainstream homogenization.
[13:05] The farm as a lifestyle: freedom, connection, and shared struggle.
[21:39] Rediscovering crate art and the creativity of early 20th-century farms.
[23:11] Diversity in farming and why it’s essential to human health and culture.
[34:07] Small farms as key players in restoring biodiversity and rewilding.
[39:28] Scaling out, not up: how a network of small farms builds resiliency and food sovereignty.
Mentioned Links & Resources
Jean-Martin Fortier
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