Dear For The Wild Community, 

As we release Fat of The Land, we’re reminded of the big questions this series asks us about hunger, surrender, freedom, and belonging. Being in person and on the land, we didn’t rely on written scripts for these conversations to emerge. In so many ways this was freeing, and in so many ways it was terrifying. Yet, we got to the heart of the matter. This is the beauty of conversation; not just a series of interview questions, but real, dedicated time with people who live with the land. We’re so happy to share this with you. 

In the spirit of the series, consider these reflection prompts: 

Episode Two

“Human hunger—not just for food, but for everything… That hunger drives us to do beautiful things, crazy things, horrible things, but to me, that is the most human thing I can point to.”
—Ayana Young

Primi, the first main course of the meal. Episode two of Fat of The Land grounds us back in Sicily with Jessie and Carlo of Slow Life Family Farm and Mila of Bimbi Naturali. Across the conversation, themes of hunger, desire, and the allure of independence emerge.   

This episode asks us what the root of our desires might be and how they may turn us toward the land rather than against it. As Mila reminds us, “nature needs time.” Beyond a world of instant gratification, what fulfillment might we find? 

Let this conversation nourish the desires and longings that draw us back into relationship with the land.

This episode is brought to you by generous sponsorships from Ritū and Terra Elaÿa.

Further Listening

Episode Two
“Digestivo”

In this bonus mini episode, Ayana speaks with Matteo, a truffle hunter near Rome, about his family lineage and what it’s like to work in the world of truffles. Together they discuss misconceptions about truffle hunting, the communities that form and codes of the land, the realities of harvesting, preparing and selling truffles to the ever-growing global interest and consumption of the fabled mushroom.

By joining us on Patreon, you get early access to all five Fat of The Land Digestivos (mini audio episodes on craft, tradition, conscious tourism, regenerative farming, truffle hunting) at the Herbarium level. There are several ways to join our community there and Patreon membership also gives you access to our zines, playlists, archives of extended episodes, and so much more.