The R.A.C.E S2 EP5: Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens

The R.A.C.E S2 EP5: Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens

In this rich and reflective episode of The R.A.C.E. Podcast, Green Faith Rising: From Wilderness to Watered Gardens, host Kenya Madison leads a moving discussion that dives deep into the sacred intersections of faith, farming, food justice, and Black resilience. Joined by Bobby and Daravia Rich, founders of Black Seeds Urban Farms in Memphis, Tennessee, and Tavia Gordon, Urban Agriculture Extension Agent at Florida A&M University, this episode brings together stories of land, legacy, and liberation.

The conversation opens with personal reflections on how these leaders were called to the land—not just to grow food, but to heal communities. The Riches share how their farm became a response to the food deserts and systemic disinvestment in Memphis, emphasizing that farming is not just an economic or environmental act, but a spiritual one. Tavia Gordon, who works through HBCU land-grant institutions, expands the dialogue by describing her work supporting small farmers, protecting intergenerational land ownership, and teaching youth the power of growing their own food. The episode also touches on the profound importance of passing down agricultural knowledge within families, especially in the Black community where land was once stolen, lost, or undervalued.

Throughout the episode, guests explore the challenges and triumphs of leading faith-rooted, Black-centered food initiatives. Topics range from the mental and spiritual impact of connecting to the soil, to advocating for urban agriculture policy, to the real-time hurdles of farm management, community engagement, and youth empowerment. Together, they paint a picture of what it means to turn “wilderness” into “watered gardens” — restoring not only the land, but also the dignity, power, and spiritual groundedness of the people working it.

In closing, Green Faith Rising becomes a call to action: to sow seeds not only in soil but in the hearts of future generations. The episode invites listeners to imagine a world where churches are clean energy hubs, gardens are sacred spaces, and Black communities reclaim and protect the land that has long been theirs. It’s a vision of wholeness rooted in justice, love, and deep care for the Earth.