The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast
Episode: 1KHO 539: We Need So Many More Farmers | Sean Pessara, Mindful Farmer Arkansas
Host: Jenny Ur
Guest: Sean Pacera
Release Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

In this enlightening episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, host Jenny Ur welcomes Sean Pacera from Mindful Farmer Arkansas. The discussion centers around sustainable gardening practices, the significance of efficient farming tools, and the profound impact of engaging families, especially children, with outdoor activities through gardening.

Sean Pacera’s Journey and Mission

Sean Pacera introduces his background in environmental science and his transition from working as an ecologist to founding Mindful Farmer Arkansas. His passion for sustainable and regenerative agriculture stems from a desire to be a better steward of the earth and to encourage the flourishing of life rather than mere land development.

Sean Pacera [02:21]: “I want to see life flourish and be part of that and see that as like our responsibility and stewardship.”

Together with his wife, a nutritionist, Sean sought ways to grow food sustainably while promoting environmental health and ecological diversity. This led to the creation of Mindful Farmer Arkansas, which aims to cultivate the next generation of organic farmers by empowering backyard gardeners with efficient farming techniques.

Efficient Farming Techniques: High Tunnels vs. Greenhouses

A significant portion of the conversation delves into the differences and benefits of high tunnels (also known as hoop houses) versus traditional greenhouses. Sean explains how these structures can extend the growing season and protect crops from extreme weather.

Sean Pacera [07:56]: “A high tunnel is passive. You’re just letting the sun and natural air ventilation control the temperature. A greenhouse, you might have fans and a heater to control it.”

High Tunnels:

• Passive Heating: Utilize the greenhouse effect by trapping sunlight to naturally heat the space.
• Season Extension: Allow gardeners to start planting earlier in the spring and continue harvesting later into the fall.
• Overwintering Crops: Enable the cultivation of certain vegetables, like carrots and cabbages, through the winter by creating a microclimate that protects them from freezing temperatures.

Greenhouses:

• Active Heating: May incorporate heaters and fans to maintain optimal growing conditions.
• Versatility: Suitable for a wider range of plants, including those requiring more controlled environments.

Sean highlights the economic and practical advantages of high tunnels, especially for home gardeners looking to maximize their yields without significant additional costs.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Sean emphasizes the financial viability of using high tunnels, stating that they can quickly pay for themselves through increased crop yields. For example, a 30-foot by 96-foot tunnel can generate up to $20,000 worth of heirloom tomatoes in a single planting season. These structures also support environmental stewardship by promoting biodiversity and reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Sean Pacera [19:04]: “Our goal is to grow $4,000 plus worth of food with an investment under $200. That’s what we’re trying to dial in.”

High tunnels not only enhance productivity but also help mitigate the impacts of climate extremes, such as unexpected cold snaps or intense heatwaves, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

Innovative Tools and Products from Mindful Farmer

Mindful Farmer Arkansas offers a range of durable, efficient farming tools designed to streamline gardening and farming processes. Sean discusses several key products, highlighting their functionality and environmental benefits.

Soil Blockers

Soil blockers are reusable tools that compress potting soil into firm blocks, eliminating the need for disposable seed trays. This promotes healthier plant growth and reduces plastic waste.

Sean Pacera [33:42]: “A lot of benefits, but then for me it’s like I just love not having the plastic. And I can make this one-time investment in these metal soil blockers.”

Drop Seeder

The drop seeder is Sean’s patented innovation designed to facilitate precise seed placement, especially for tiny seeds like snapdragons. This tool ensures uniform germination and reduces the labor involved in manual seeding.

Sean Pacera [35:56]: “I invented it to solve the issue of accurately seeding thousands of seeds quickly and efficiently.”

Silage Tarps

Silage tarps are versatile tools used to smother weeds, retain soil moisture, and manage cover crops. Sean explains their dual-sided design (black and white) which allows gardeners to control soil temperature and moisture levels effectively.

Sean Pacera [44:55]: “The black side helps kill weeds by heating the soil, while the white side keeps it cool and humid.”

These tools exemplify Mindful Farmer’s commitment to providing sustainable, long-lasting solutions that enhance the gardening experience while minimizing environmental impact.

Strategies for Sustainable Gardening

Sean shares practical strategies for implementing sustainable practices in both backyard gardens and larger farming operations.

Cover Crops and Soil Amendments

Using cover crops like hairy vetch improves soil nitrogen levels and provides natural mulch, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and weed management.

Sean Pacera [44:55]: “Hairy vetch adds nitrogen to your soil, and using silage tarps helps transition the cover crop into mulch.”

Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation systems conserve water by delivering it directly to the plant roots, enhancing efficiency and promoting healthier plant growth.

Intercropping

Planting multiple crop species in the same space (e.g., tomatoes with green onions and lettuce) maximizes productivity and fosters a resilient garden ecosystem.

Overcoming Common Gardening Challenges

Sean acknowledges the challenges faced by gardeners, including short growing seasons, pest management, and soil health. Mindful Farmer Arkansas addresses these hurdles by offering tools and knowledge that simplify and enhance gardening practices, making it more accessible and enjoyable for families.

Jenny Ur [30:42]: “When you plant, like, mostly I just do flowers… but then all of a sudden, I got a pack of carrot seeds…”

Through education and innovative products, Sean empowers gardeners to overcome obstacles and achieve prolific yields with minimal effort.

Vision and Kingdom Purpose

Sean delves into the deeper motivations behind his work, intertwining his faith with his passion for environmental stewardship. He views farming as a means to honor God’s creation by fostering healthy ecosystems and communities.

Sean Pacera [49:37]: “We want to farm in such a way that we’re healthy on every essential level... to make Earth look a little more like heaven every day.”

This spiritual perspective underscores the ethical and sustainable approach that Mindful Farmer Arkansas embodies, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment.

Personal Reflections and Memories

Sean shares a cherished childhood memory that ignited his passion for nature and ecology. Growing up near wildlife refuges, his early experiences with nature conservation deeply influenced his career path and dedication to sustainable farming.

Sean Pacera [53:23]: “I remember being in fourth grade, walking through estuaries, catching baby redfish... it’s my place. That’s what I was made for.”

These formative experiences highlight the enduring impact of early outdoor exposure on fostering a lifelong commitment to environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

Jenny Ur concludes the episode by expressing gratitude for Sean’s insights and the invaluable knowledge he shared. The conversation not only highlights practical gardening techniques and innovative tools but also emphasizes the holistic benefits of outdoor activities for families and communities. Sean’s dedication to sustainable farming and environmental stewardship serves as an inspiring model for listeners seeking to reconnect with nature and cultivate healthier, more resilient lifestyles.

For more information and to explore the tools discussed in this episode, visit mindfulfarmerarkansas.com and follow their Instagram @mindfulfarmerAR.

Notable Quotes:

• Sean Pacera [02:21]: “I want to see life flourish and be part of that and see that as like our responsibility and stewardship.”
• Sean Pacera [07:56]: “A high tunnel is passive. You’re just letting the sun and natural air ventilation control the temperature.”
• Sean Pacera [19:04]: “Our goal is to grow $4,000 plus worth of food with an investment under $200. That’s what we’re trying to dial in.”
• Sean Pacera [49:37]: “We want to farm in such a way that we’re healthy on every essential level... to make Earth look a little more like heaven every day.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Mindful Farmer Arkansas Website: mindfulfarmerarkansas.com
• Instagram: @mindfulfarmerAR
• Books:
  • New Organic Gardener by Elliot Coleman
  • Winter Harvest Handbook by Elliot Coleman

This episode serves as a passionate call to action for aspiring gardeners and farmers to embrace sustainable practices, utilize efficient tools, and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.