Best Rayford Johnson Podcasts (2026)

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#187: Designing a Just Food Future with Dr. Celeste Davis 46:10

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1M ago46:10

46:10

Host Melissa L. Jones sits down with Dr. Celeste Davis—public health educator, design strategist, and director of the Public Health Scholars Program at American University—for a thoughtful conversation on how food justice, public health, and community power shape one another in today’s shifting landscape. Through her path as a bridge-builder, Dr. C…

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#186: From Lineage to Land: Umi’s Journey of Ancestral Farming 38:10

2M ago38:10

38:10

Returning-generation farmer and community herbalist Bianca “Umi” Anthony shares how she’s reclaiming seven acres of her family’s 1950s land in rural Bertie County, NC—reviving legacy, building Seed of Life Farm, and raising her three kids “no screens” while they learn to grow. We talk medicinal herbs and cut flowers, creating a healing space for co…

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#185: Nurturing Our Seeds: Detroit Roots, Community Power 45:48

2M ago45:48

45:48

Erin Cole, founder of Nurturing Our Seeds in Detroit, shares how a porch-side safety moment on Helen Street—mowing vacant lots for elders—grew from a first flower patch into mustard and turnip greens, and ultimately a neighborhood farm and seed-saving hub. We dig into living soil, herb-based compost teas, seed starting as food sovereignty as they s…

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#184: SWAP: Fashioning Environmental Justice with Zsameria Rayford 44:09

3M ago44:09

44:09

From living-room swaps to a decade of citywide pop-ups, Zsameria Rayford’s SWAP DC → SWAP Universe shows how style and sustainability move together. This episode digs into the operational backbone, the ethos, and the outcomes—thousands of pounds of textiles kept out of landfills while neighbors trade clothing, plants, books, and ideas. We connect c…

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#183: SiStained8: From Kitchen Scraps to Living Soil 47:25

3M ago47:25

47:25

Najwa Womack, founder of SiStained8 in Washington, D.C., traces her path from early nature moments to teaching compost as the art of growing soil. She defines composting in plain language, explains essentials like source-separated organics and feedstock, and tackles common myths about smell and time. Najwa connects kitchen scraps to city-scale solu…

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#182: Black Cotton and the Power of Legacy with Julius Tillery 45:12

4M ago45:12

45:12

Cotton has long been a cornerstone of American agriculture and culture. Julius Tillery, a fifth-generation cotton farmer and founder of Black Cotton, is reshaping how we see this iconic crop by turning it into a source of artistry, heritage, and opportunity. In this conversation with host Melissa L. Jones, Julius shares his journey of embracing his…

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#181: Roots, Recipes & Storytelling with Antoinette Johnson 52:42

4M ago52:42

52:42

Chef, storyteller, and advocate Antoinette Johnson takes us back to her Black Southern roots, where family traditions and community gatherings first sparked her love for food. She shares how those early influences—and moving across different states—shaped her culinary voice and storytelling lens, leading to her big win on America’s Test Kitchen: Th…

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#180: From the Kitchen to the Soil with Chef Marly 49:34

5M ago49:34

49:34

After a traumatic brain injury in 2014, Chef Marly — a classically trained chef and Washington native — found healing in an unexpected place: the soil. In this episode, she shares her journey from the kitchen to farming, how growing food supported her recovery, and what’s been keeping her hands in the dirt this season.…

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#179: Melon Nation 51:30

5M ago51:30

51:30

In this episode of Edible Activist, Melissa sits down with Kenny and Cutt, the co-founders of Melon Nation — two Black farmers and agricultural specialists bringing fresh seeded watermelon and tropical fruits to communities across the East Coast. Together, they share how Melon Nation is building a vibrant supply chain rooted in health, sustainabili…

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#178: The Bodega Bites with Ora Kemp 50:08

5M ago50:08

50:08

Ora Kemp, creator of The Bodega Bites, is on a mission to make sure everyone’s eatin’. As a 2025 Castanea Fellow and Senior Policy Advisor with the NYC Mayor’s Office of Food Policy, she offers a candid look at New York City’s food landscape, the stakes for SNAP, and the difference between food insufficiency and insecurity. We also explore how risi…

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#177: Intelligent Mischief: Shaping Black Futures 31:03

5M ago31:03

31:03

What would our world look like if Black imagination led the way? In this episode, Artistic Director Aisha Shillingford of Intelligent Mischief joins me to explore the power of speculative world-building as a tool for liberation, healing, and community transformation. We talk about what reparations and land justice could mean for our food systems, h…

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#176: Demi Unique: Telling Stories Through Style, Flavor and Food 36:28

5M ago36:28

36:28

Chef Demi Unique approaches food as art, memory, and ancestral tribute. Trained at both the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising and the Institute of Culinary Education, she blends her deep creative roots into immersive culinary storytelling. As a traveling artist, chef, and consultant, Demi uses food to honor lineage, build community, and c…

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#175: Regenerating Food & Health at Konterra Life Farms 35:56

6M ago35:56

35:56

In this episode, Melissa sit down with Kela, a farmer and founder of Konterra Life Farms in Maryland. Kela is deeply rooted in regenerative, soil-first farming practices and is also a registered dietitian who understands the powerful connection between the land and our health. We talk about what it means to grow food that heals both people and the …

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#174: Mushrooms, Justice, and the Future of Food with Eight Fold Farms DC 46:12

6M ago46:12

46:12

In this episode of The Edible Activist, Melissa sits down with JR, founder and CEO of EightFold Farms DC, a network of hyperlocal urban farms transforming rooftops, lawns, and underused spaces in Washington, DC’s Wards 7 and 8. Frustrated by limited access to healthy food and inspired by global urban agriculture models, JR set out to reengineer the…

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#173: Bees & Seeds at Châteaux Cocoa 37:29

6M ago37:29

37:29

In this episode, we sit down with Darrelynne Strother, founder of Châteaux Cocoa, where wellness takes root through gardening, beekeeping, and community care. From a childhood moment tossing cucumber seeds to leading hands-on beekeeping workshops, Darrelynne shares how personal healing blossomed into a mission grounded in joy, creativity, and conne…

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#172: Fried Chicken & Caviar: Reclaiming Luxury with Chi Walker 43:36

8M ago43:36

43:36

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 inno…

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#171: Protecting Food Access: A Policy Update with LaMonika Jones 35:17

8M ago35:17

35:17

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.Tog…

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#170: Anderson James Farm: A Conversation with The Chicken Mama 37:15

9M ago37:15

37:15

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…

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#169: Great Mother Garden Solutions 41:25

9M ago41:25

41:25

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 h…

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#168: The Joy of Black Foodways with Indigo Culinary & Co. 37:43

9M ago37:43

37:43

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 …

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#167: Black Girl Environmentalist: Building Community in DC 30:39

9M ago30:39

30:39

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 Envir…

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#166: Marching Forward: Resistance, Rest & Reconnecting with Nature 5:00

10M ago5:00

5:00

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 w…

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#165: Reclamation & Resilience – Taking Nature Black 2025 6:52

11M ago6:52

6:52

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. As an official media sponsor, I’m honored to amplify this year’s theme: “Reclamation & Resilience”—a call to reclaim our narratives, protect our …

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#164: Edible Activist Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead 16:30

1y ago16:30

16:30

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.By Melissa L. Jones

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#163: Farming Truths and Myths: A Live Conversation with Gail 38:39

1y ago38:39

38:39

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_6OSPJA0By Melissa L. Jones

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#162: Ashwagandha’s Power and Revolutionizing Wellness with HSA/FSA 48:17

1y ago48:17

48:17

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 …

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#161: Food Systems Spotlight: SNAP and Farm Bill 42:24

1+ y ago42:24

42:24

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 supp…

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#160: Growing Futures: Youth, Food, and Community 33:06

1+ y ago33:06

33:06

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 thei…

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#159: Farmer Wes aka The Compost King 50:44

1+ y ago50:44

50:44

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…

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#158: Heirs Property 101: Insights with Urban Planner, Brittney Drakeford 54:00

1+ y ago54:00

54:00

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

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#157: Seeds of Blackness: A Journey Through St. Croix 36:49

1+ y ago36:49

36:49

Join us as we delve into the vibrant world of St. Croix, exploring its rich history, culture, and culinary traditions that make this Virgin Island a unique gem. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sade Anderson Brown, the visionary behind Seeds of Blackness, to uncover what drew her to St. Croix and how it inspired her to create an immersive expe…

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#156: Empowering LA: Prosperity Market Transforming Food Access 57:07

1+ y ago57:07

57:07

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 t…

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#155: The Roots of OlaLekan: Farmer Tolu’s Story 47:55

1+ y ago47:55

47:55

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, a…

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#154: Sowing Seeds with Farmer Monica Newman 57:22

1+ y ago57:22

57:22

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 f…

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#153: Homegrown Delights with Plots & Pans 1:08:54

1+ y ago1:08:54

1:08:54

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. An…

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#152: Advocating for DC's Food & Health Future 1:08:45

1+ y ago1:08:45

1:08:45

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 advoc…

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#151: Exclusive Live Podcast: HOMEGROWN with Byrd's Nest Box 48:09

2y ago48:09

48:09

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'…

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#150: Beauty Blooms Farm with Nia Nyamweya 37:58

2y ago37:58

37:58

Join us for an inspiring journey with Nia, the driving force behind Beauty Blooms Farm. Together, let's explore the rich blend of family heritage, community empowerment, and eco-friendly farming practices that shape her story. From taking part in programs like the Montgomery Countryside Alliance’s LandLink to championing food accessibility through …

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#149: From Roots to Market: Nourishing Community with Ashley Drakeford 39:47

2y ago39:47

39:47

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 n…

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#148: Cuzzin' Talk: Sean's Veggie Garden 1:02:44

2y ago1:02:44

1:02:44

*Heads up! This episode gets a little spicy with some colorful language—perfect for mature ears only*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 Fala…

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#147: Plate to Passion: JuJu Harris on Culinary Education & Well-being 54:11

2y ago54:11

54:11

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.Culi…

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#146: Breaking Bread: LaMonika Jones Unveils the Blueprint for Hunger Eradication in DC 57:30

2y ago57:30

57:30

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, …

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#145: The People's Market 58:02

2y ago58:02

58:02

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 …

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#144: Cuzzin' Talk: Food Justice, A Social Movement 1:05:42

2+ y ago1:05:42

1:05:42

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, M…

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#143: Woman from the Well 51:30

2+ y ago51:30

51:30

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 p…

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#142: Protecting Her Family's Farmland from Loss 41:50

2+ y ago41:50

41:50

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

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#141: Cuzzin' Talk: Growing Together 1:09:54

3y ago1:09:54

1:09:54

*Heads up! This episode may get a little spicy with some colorful language—perfect for mature ears only*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 creativ…

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#140: Cuzzin' Talk: Nobody Wins When the Family Feuds...Over Land 55:05

3y ago55:05

55:05

*Heads up! This episode may get a little spicy with some colorful language—perfect for mature ears only*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 a…

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#139: Cuzzin' Talk: New Series 1:01:21

3y ago1:01:21

1:01:21

*Heads up! This episode gets a little spicy with some colorful language—perfect for mature ears only*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'…

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#138: Flowers by Alexes: A Story of Legacy and Reclamation 44:32

3y ago44:32

44:32

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 neighborh…