Episode #336. What if our food systems could help heal the Earth? Join me as I sit down with ethnobotanist Stephen Brooks to explore permaculture, alternative living, and the future of agriculture. Together, we discuss how you can be part of the solution to building a better balance between humans and nature.

You’ll learn about the principles of permaculture, the ethical issues in modern food systems, and some unique fruits to seek out. Stephen also shares his vision for designing cities and agriculture that work in harmony with the planet, and why now is the time to get involved in the transition to a healthier world.

Specifically, we discuss:

• The World of Fruit and Plants: Connection to Nature (00:00)
• From Miami to Costa Rica: A Journey into Sustainability (03:59)
• Environmental Injustice and the Impact on Communities (05:08)
• Permaculture and Sustainable Agriculture Practices (11:54)
• How to Build Sustainable Communities through Permaculture (26:30)
• Perennial Vegetables: A Key to Sustainable Agriculture (39:15)
• Diet Trends, Agriculture, and Sustainable Living Practices (41:56)
• Sustainable Human Systems: Permaculture and Design (48:59)
• Renewable Energy Solutions for Sustainable Communities (01:16:32)
• Practical Urban Farming and Sustainable Practices (01:19:55)
• The Joy of Nitrogen-Fixing Plants and Sustainable Farming (01:30:36)
• Fruit Ceremonies: Building Community and Connection (01:38:30)
• Blueprint for Sustainable Living and Community Building (01:44:30)

Connect with Stephen on Instagram, where you can find more information about his current and upcoming projects.

This episode is brought to you by:

38TERA

Consider 38TERA's DMN-01 prebiotic supplement a daily multivitamin for your gut. Formulated by yours truly and gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz. Use code THEPROOF for a discount at checkout.

Eimele

Eimele Essential 8 is a comprehensive multivitamin that is scientifically formulated to complement your plant-rich diet, increase and sustain your energy, and support the immune system, as well as heart and brain health. Head to Eimele.com and use code SIMON at checkout for 20% off your first order and subscriptions.

WHOOP

Whoop, the most advanced fitness and health wearable available. Your personalised fitness and health coach to recover faster, sleep better, and train smarter. Claim your first month free on join.whoop.com/simon.

LMNT

Stay hydrated with LMNT - a meaningful dose of electrolytes in a science-backed ratio. Receive a free LMNT sample pack with any order when you purchase via drinklmnt.com/simon.

Shopify

Shopify, the world's leading e-commerce platform, helps you turn browsers into buyers with the internet’s best-converting check out–up to 36% better compared to other leading e-commerce platforms. To boost your conversion rate, and grow your business, sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/proof.

Birch

Sleep deeply and wake up refreshed with a Birch Natural Mattress, combining premium natural materials with unbeatable comfort. Rest easy with a 100-night trial and 25-year warranty. Get 20% off all mattresses and 2 free pillows at birchliving.com/simonhill.

Eight Sleep

Upgrade your sleep with the Pod 4 Ultra by Eight Sleep. Clinically validated to deliver up to 1 extra hour of quality sleep per night through temperature control and biometric tracking. Use code THEPROOF for $350 off at eightsleep.com/theproof. Try it risk-free for 30 days, with worldwide shipping.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)

Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill

Author of The Proof is in the Plants