The Healing Power of Farms with Dr. Chris Barsotti

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There’s something deeply healing about stepping onto a farm — slowing down long enough to breathe fresh air, work with your hands, share a meal, connect with animals, and reconnect with nature in a way that modern life rarely allows. But what if those experiences are more than simply enjoyable? What if farms themselves are part of a much larger public health solution?

In this incredibly thought-provoking episode, I sit down with emergency medicine physician, public health advocate, farmer, and agritourism visionary Chris Barsotti to explore the intersection of agriculture, wellness, public health, and human connection. From his work in ecological economics and emergency medicine to building a regenerative farm in southern Vermont, Chris shares a powerful perspective on how farms can serve not only as places of food production — but as spaces that actively support mental, physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Together, we dive into topics like regenerative agriculture, nature-based interventions, loneliness and isolation, lifestyle medicine, animal-assisted experiences, and why agri-tourism may be one of the most overlooked forms of preventative healthcare in modern society. We also reflect on our shared experiences in Sicily, the healing power of meaningful connection, and the growing movement to reimagine farms as community-centered wellness spaces.

This conversation completely reframed the way I think about agriculture — not just as farming, hospitality, or tourism, but as a form of care. If you’ve ever felt calmer after spending time on a farm, in a garden, in the woods, or around animals… this episode will deeply resonate with you.

Longview Farm Vermont

Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.  

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