Rupert Dunn and the Alchemy of Transformation

In this episode, Daniel Griffith and Rupert Dunn discuss the inspiration of peasant baking and wilding and the impact both of these paradigms have on their lives. They explore Rupert's background and journey, including his move to Lithuania with his family. The conversation delves into the tension between wild and agricultural food production and the importance of the alchemy and transformation, the basis of relationship and food.

Daniel and Rupert also discuss the heart of the harvest and the difference between being and doing. They explore the impact of property rights on food production; the relationship between transformation and time, emphasizing the need for a holistic understanding of the world; the negative effects of maximizing production and the importance of how food is produced; and the nuances of nutrient density in meat, highlighting the impact of stress and biodiversity.

The conversation also touches on the occupation of consumerist values and the desire for freedom and choice. The difference between independence and interdependence. It concludes with the need to de-mechanize our understanding of food production and the importance of intentionality through the metaphor of the washing machine.

Rupert is available to support farmers, individuals and organizations with advice, mentoring and support with sourcing, growing, milling and baking with heritage grains as well as the design for regenerative cultures for organizations. He can be contacted at panisvita@protonmail.com where you can also pre-register for a copy of the 'Peasant Bakery Toolkit'.

Takeaways

• Peasant baking can inspire a simpler, more connected way of life.
• The alchemy and transformation of food is a meaningful and important process.
• The tension between wild and agricultural food production can be explored and understood.
• The heart of the harvest involves a deep connection to the land and the process of growing and producing food.
• The impact of property rights on food production should be considered and understood. Transformation requires time and a holistic understanding of the world.
• Maximizing production can have negative effects on nutrient density and health.
• The way food is produced impacts its nutrient density and bioavailability.
• There is a need for a shift in values and a reconnection with traditional livelihoods.
• Consumerist values and the pursuit of freedom and choice can be limiting.
• A nuanced understanding of food production and intentional decision-making is crucial. We need to change the way we live and approach the world around us.
• Understanding the nuance and complexity of nature is crucial.
• Language plays a significant role in shaping our perception of the world.
• Living in utopia requires a shift in mindset and embracing interdependency.

Daniel's Website:  www.danielfirthgriffith.com
Denuding the Illusion: danielfirthgriffith.substack.com