276. Abram Bicksler on Empowering our World's Farmers with ECHO

How does the health of soil directly impact global hunger solutions? On this episode of the Thriving Farmer Podcast, Michael is joined by Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., who is President and CEO of ECHO, a global Christian organization focused on empowering the undernourished through sustainable hunger solutions. With over 15 years of international experience, Abram leads the charge to help foster sustainable agricultural practices and holistic missions worldwide. Tune in to hear how Abram leads ECHO to help small farmers thrive around the world! You’ll hear: How Abram got started in his career 1:02 More about Abram’s time working with government agencies  3:49 About some of the problems facing small farmers around the world 13:02 How ECHO helps farmers maintain organic matter in their soil 23:53 More about how ECHO provides pertinent information to people regarding conventional fertilizers 35:02 About the Guest: Abram J. Bicksler, Ph.D., is the President/CEO of ECHO, a global Christian technical resourcing and networking organization based in Fort Myers, Florida. He is responsible for leading the overall global programs and operations of the organization in order to help it achieve its vision of honoring God by empowering the undernourished with sustainable hunger solutions.  With more than 15 years of international experience, including five years as Director of ECHO’s Asia Regional Impact Center from 2013-2018, Bicksler most recently served as an Agricultural Officer in the agroecology team at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome, Italy. He is passionate about holistic mission and empowering people to use their gifts, skills, education and experiences to bring healing to people and the creation. Resources: Website - www.echonet.org Website - www.echocommunity.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/echofightshunger/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ECHOFightsHunger   The Thriving Farmer Podcast Team would like to thank our amazing sponsor! At our Growing Farmers store, planting season is in full swing! A treasure trove of plant starts and cuttings await. Our team is shipping everything from elderberry and willow cuttings to strawberry starts and potato slips.  So if you’ve been eyeing that sunny spot by the fence or considering how to fill that quiet corner of your yard, look not further. Visit shop.growingfarmers.com today for the first step towards a greener, more fruitful farmstead or garden.