In this episode, Dr. Charles Benbrook, agricultural economist and former policy advisor, traces how corporate influence shaped pesticide regulation and food policy—and what it will take to change course. Drawing from decades inside U.S. agriculture and public health, he explains how glyphosate became embedded in our food system and offers a grounded, hopeful vision for rebuilding it: breaking up factory farms, restoring healthy rotations, and putting animals back on the land. This is a call to rethink what’s possible—from healthier soil and food to a fairer future for farmers and families.

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Website: Hygeia Analytics - ⁠https://hygeia-analytics.com/⁠

Website: Heartland Health Research Alliance - ⁠https://hh-ra.org/⁠

Bio: Dr Charles Benbrook is an agricultural economist whose career spans over four decades of research into the relationships between food production systems, public health, and ecological outcomes. His work has helped illuminate how policy, technology, and economic incentives shape the realities faced by farmers, regulators, and eaters alike.

With a PhD in agricultural economics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and a background in both academic and applied research, Charles has authored more than 70 peer-reviewed papers covering pesticide use, nutritional density, regulatory frameworks, and pathways toward healthier agricultural models. He served as Chief Scientist for The Organic Center and has worked across sectors to inform decisions grounded in data, transparency, and public good.

Charles brings to this conversation a rare blend of technical depth and systems thinking, grounded in years of expert testimony, field research, and a commitment to health in its broadest sense: soil, food, and people.

Website: ⁠⁠theinvisibleingredient.org⁠

Citations: ⁠⁠Here⁠

Special thanks to the incredible teams at ⁠farmersfootprint.us⁠ and ⁠farmersfootprint.org.au⁠⁠ ⁠as well as ⁠podbyron.com.au⁠ ⁠for their amazing support in producing the show. ⁠

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in The Invisible Ingredient podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Farmer’s Footprint or any affiliated organisation. This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical, legal, or professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult qualified professionals before making decisions relating to health, farming practices, or environmental management.

The Invisible Ingredient shares conversations that awaken awareness of how our food systems, environment, and health are intertwined. We invite you to listen with curiosity, explore the research, and carry forward what resonates on your own path toward healthier people, land, and communities.