KMUD - The Choice is Yours Castos https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com Have you ever wondered where the things you are buying are coming from? We did too... and then, we did a show about it! Every month since 2021, The Choice is Yours digs deep into one product that we all buy and use, and exposes the impacts of consuming such a product. Products such as bananas, smart phones, meat/meat substitutes, wheat/gluten, avocados, baby products, garbanzo beans, essential oils and much more. We are looking at the health impacts, environmental impacts and social impacts. The Choice is Yours is a show on KMUD Community Radio in Northern California. It's a fun collaboration between Doro, Dani and Sheila. We are not investigative journalists but just your neighbors who spent many hours researching on the internet and trying to figure out which sites to trust. We hope this show can motivate you to contemplate the consequences of your consumption on many different levels and to do your own research. Mon, 28 Sep 2026 15:16:37 +0000 en © 2025 https://episodes.castos.com/659707a73b3f26-69333554/images/The-Choice-is-Yours.png KMUD - The Choice is Yours https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com Have you ever wondered where the things you are buying are coming from? We did too... and then, we did a show about it! Every month since 2021, The Choice is Yours digs deep into one product that we all buy and use, and exposes the impacts of consuming such a product. Products such as bananas, smart phones, meat/meat substitutes, wheat/gluten, avocados, baby products, garbanzo beans, essential oils and much more. We are looking at the health impacts, environmental impacts and social impacts. The Choice is Yours is a show on KMUD Community Radio in Northern California. It's a fun collaboration between Doro, Dani and Sheila. We are not investigative journalists but just your neighbors who spent many hours researching on the internet and trying to figure out which sites to trust. We hope this show can motivate you to contemplate the consequences of your consumption on many different levels and to do your own research. Doro, Dani and Sheila episodic Have you ever wondered where the things you are buying are coming from? We did too... and then, we did a show about it! Every month since 2021, The Choice is Yours digs deep into one product that we all buy and use, and exposes the impacts of consuming such a product. Products such as bananas, smart phones, meat/meat substitutes, wheat/gluten, avocados, baby products, garbanzo beans, essential oils and much more. We are looking at the health impacts, environmental impacts and social impacts. The Choice is Yours is a show on KMUD Community Radio in Northern California. It's a fun collaboration between Doro, Dani and Sheila. We are not investigative journalists but just your neighbors who spent many hours researching on the internet and trying to figure out which sites to trust. We hope this show can motivate you to contemplate the consequences of your consumption on many different levels and to do your own research. KMUD Podcasts membership@kmud.org false https://feeds.castos.com/37w9n yes <![CDATA[Beans Against the AI Apocalypse]]> Mon, 28 Sep 2026 15:16:37 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2632119 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/beans-great-survival-food-and-staple-food Beans Against the AI Apocalypse is an episode about one surprisingly powerful little food: the bean.

From green beans appearing on the Dirty Dozen list to the use of desiccants in dry-bean production, beans come with environmental and health questions that are more complicated than their humble image suggests. But beans also have a remarkable story to tell: they fix nitrogen, enrich soils, deliver impressive nutrition, and can produce a lot of food with relatively few resources.

We dig into the science, farming practices, health impacts, and environmental footprint behind beans—from the field to the plate. 

Because in an uncertain future—AI existential threats included—it might be worth knowing which crops can feed us, nourish us, and help the soil along the way.

Sources:

Dangers of AI: https://www.forbes.com/sites/andreamorris/2026/09/13/what-made-ai-researchers-freak-out-the-incident-in-plain-english/

Beans, the sustainable food: https://beaninstitute.com/beans-beans-the-sustainable-food/

Integrating beans with grain agriculture: https://cultivatingflora.com/ideas-for-integrating-legumes-with-grains-in-north-dakota-farming/

Production facts : https://usdrybeans.com/industry/production-facts/

Adaptation to drought : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378377424006164

Comparison between plant based proteins and animal proteins: https://www.sciencedirect.com › science › article › pii › S0308521X24002932

https://humaneherald.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/calories-and-protein-produced-per-acre-1.pdf

GMO soybean:https://www.nongmoproject.org/blog/the-gmo-high-risk-list-soybeans/

Dirty Dozen / Clean Fifteen :https://organicfoodguides.com/dirty-dozen-and-clean-fifteen/

Desiccants like diquat and glyphosate: https://www.realagriculture.com/edible-bean-school/edible-bean-school-timing-desiccation-for-maximum-yield-quality/ https://usrtk.org/healthwire/diquat-herbicide-poisons-the-gut-may-severely-damage-other-organs/ https://usrtk.org/pesticides/glyphosate-health-concerns/

History of the World in Twelve Beans by JOËL BROEKAERT https://www.letterenfonds.nl/en/books/a-history-of-the-world-in-twelve-beans

History https://www.kelleybean.com/consumers/bean-history/

]]> full false Beans Against the AI Apocalypse is an episode about one surprisingly powerful little food: the bean.

From green beans appearing on the Dirty Dozen list to the use of desiccants in dry-bean production, beans come with environmental and health questions that are more complicated than their humble image suggests. But beans also have a remarkable story to tell: they fix nitrogen, enrich soils, deliver impressive nutrition, and can produce a lot of food with relatively few resources.

We dig into the science, farming practices, health impacts, and environmental footprint behind beans—from the field to the plate. 

Because in an uncertain future—AI existential threats included—it might be worth knowing which crops can feed us, nourish us, and help the soil along the way.

Sources:

Dangers of AI: https://www.forbes.com/sites/andreamorris/2026/09/13/what-made-ai-researchers-freak-out-the-incident-in-plain-english/

Beans, the sustainable food: https://beaninstitute.com/beans-beans-the-sustainable-food/

Integrating beans with grain agriculture: https://cultivatingflora.com/ideas-for-integrating-legumes-with-grains-in-north-dakota-farming/

Production facts : https://usdrybeans.com/industry/production-facts/

Adaptation to drought : https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378377424006164

Comparison between plant based proteins and animal proteins: https://www.sciencedirect.com › science › article › pii › S0308521X24002932

https://humaneherald.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/calories-and-protein-produced-per-acre-1.pdf

GMO soybean:https://www.nongmoproject.org/blog/the-gmo-high-risk-list-soybeans/

Dirty Dozen / Clean Fifteen :https://organicfoodguides.com/dirty-dozen-and-clean-fifteen/

Desiccants like diquat and glyphosate: https://www.realagriculture.com/edible-bean-school/edible-bean-school-timing-desiccation-for-maximum-yield-quality/ https://usrtk.org/healthwire/diquat-herbicide-poisons-the-gut-may-severely-damage-other-organs/ https://usrtk.org/pesticides/glyphosate-health-concerns/

History of the World in Twelve Beans by JOËL BROEKAERT https://www.letterenfonds.nl/en/books/a-history-of-the-world-in-twelve-beans

History https://www.kelleybean.com/consumers/bean-history/

]]> 00:47:53 <![CDATA[Protein : the new religion]]> Tue, 01 Sep 2026 11:08:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2613366 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/social-environemental-and-health-impacts-of-the-protein-craze Protein is everywhere. From protein bars and shakes to high-protein yogurts, cereals, snacks and even everyday foods, the message seems unavoidable: we need more protein.

But where did this obsession come from — and who benefits from it?

In this episode, we look beyond the "protein maxxing" trends  to examine the science behind our protein needs, the potential health consequences of excessive or unbalanced consumption, and the environmental costs of producing more animal protein. Like, did you know whey wasa waste product of cheese manufacturing?

We also explore the politics and culture surrounding the protein boom. How has the idea of “more protein, more strength, more masculinity” become intertwined with online fitness culture and parts of the contemporary right-wing movement? And how are influencers, food companies and political narratives helping shape what we believe our bodies should look like — and what we should eat?

Are we really facing a protein deficiency — or have we been sold a powerful story about what it means to be healthy, strong and successful?

Sources :

Intro: https://annescollege.fsu.edu/blog/protein-craze-fsu-expert-explains-why-behind-high-protein-diet

Proteins bros : you might have been be getting scammed https://www.npr.org/2025/01/30/nx-s1-5270923/protein-seems-to-suddenly-be-everywhere-heres-why

A few products selected by Men’health that look just like ultra processed stuff https://www.menshealth.com/nutrition/g64308976/best-high-protein-products/

Protein sources https://grokipedia.com/page/High-Protein_Trend_in_Packaged_Foods

Whey into the environment https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266615432400317X

Consumption of whey more than cheese https://www.theguardian.com/business/ng-interactive/2026/jul/02/whey-protein-boom-proteinmaxxing-demand

https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/lifestyle/whey-protein-shortage-sparks-shortage-fears-after-brands-rushed-to-hop-on-trend-b2995465.html

Clean Label Study https://cleanlabelproject.org/protein-study/

https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2026/03/how-much-protein.html

]]> full false Protein is everywhere. From protein bars and shakes to high-protein yogurts, cereals, snacks and even everyday foods, the message seems unavoidable: we need more protein.

But where did this obsession come from — and who benefits from it?

In this episode, we look beyond the "protein maxxing" trends  to examine the science behind our protein needs, the potential health consequences of excessive or unbalanced consumption, and the environmental costs of producing more animal protein. Like, did you know whey wasa waste product of cheese manufacturing?

We also explore the politics and culture surrounding the protein boom. How has the idea of “more protein, more strength, more masculinity” become intertwined with online fitness culture and parts of the contemporary right-wing movement? And how are influencers, food companies and political narratives helping shape what we believe our bodies should look like — and what we should eat?

Are we really facing a protein deficiency — or have we been sold a powerful story about what it means to be healthy, strong and successful?

Sources :

Intro: https://annescollege.fsu.edu/blog/protein-craze-fsu-expert-explains-why-behind-high-protein-diet

Proteins bros : you might have been be getting scammed https://www.npr.org/2025/01/30/nx-s1-5270923/protein-seems-to-suddenly-be-everywhere-heres-why

A few products selected by Men’health that look just like ultra processed stuff https://www.menshealth.com/nutrition/g64308976/best-high-protein-products/

Protein sources https://grokipedia.com/page/High-Protein_Trend_in_Packaged_Foods

Whey into the environment https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S266615432400317X

Consumption of whey more than cheese https://www.theguardian.com/business/ng-interactive/2026/jul/02/whey-protein-boom-proteinmaxxing-demand

https://www.independent.co.uk/bulletin/lifestyle/whey-protein-shortage-sparks-shortage-fears-after-brands-rushed-to-hop-on-trend-b2995465.html

Clean Label Study https://cleanlabelproject.org/protein-study/

https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2026/03/how-much-protein.html

]]> 00:48:49 <![CDATA[Drink up for Hydration: Marketing scams vs Homemade]]> Sun, 26 Jul 2026 18:15:29 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2548254 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/drink-up-for-hydration-marketing-scams-vs-homemade In this episode, we look at hydration and replenishing electrolytes: The misleading claims of hydration drinks, Real hydration home made with natural products and How icy drinks may not be as refreshing as it seems.

The Choice is Yours is a serie of monthly episodes about consumer's choices and its impacts on the environement and our health. Inicially, this is a live show on KMUD Radio in Northern California. 

List of references for this episode :

Back to last month subject: Forest Stewardship Certification’s weaknesses

www.lemonde.fr/en/les-decodeurs/article/2023/03/01/investigation-reveals-flaws-in-responsible-wood-certification-system_6017835_8.html https://news.mongabay.com/2025/09/critics-say-fsc-update-risks-weakening-accountability-for-forest-harm/ https://www.dw.com/en/deforestation-inc-how-green-firms-prevent-climate-action/a-64851705 https://www.icij.org/investigations/deforestation-inc/auditors-green-labels-sustainability-environmental-harm/

Does silicon shed microplastic? 

https://theecoshift.com/does-silicone-have-microplastics/

Ice consumption  America vs Europe: 

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/why-dont-other-countries-use-ice-cubes-50361097/

Impact on health of cold or hot drinks

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/cold-and-hot-consumption-and-health-outcomes-among-us-asian-and-white-populations/8C45B97637E237244531C653E42D024E

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cold-water-vs-warm-water

https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/did-you-know/drink-hot-drinks-hot-weather-cool-down-faster

Electrolytes 

https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/Do-Electrolytes-Really-Boost-Hydration

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8471852/

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-electrolyte-sources

https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthy-aging-and-longevity/using-food-to-stay-hydrated

]]> full false In this episode, we look at hydration and replenishing electrolytes: The misleading claims of hydration drinks, Real hydration home made with natural products and How icy drinks may not be as refreshing as it seems.

The Choice is Yours is a serie of monthly episodes about consumer's choices and its impacts on the environement and our health. Inicially, this is a live show on KMUD Radio in Northern California. 

List of references for this episode :

Back to last month subject: Forest Stewardship Certification’s weaknesses

www.lemonde.fr/en/les-decodeurs/article/2023/03/01/investigation-reveals-flaws-in-responsible-wood-certification-system_6017835_8.html https://news.mongabay.com/2025/09/critics-say-fsc-update-risks-weakening-accountability-for-forest-harm/ https://www.dw.com/en/deforestation-inc-how-green-firms-prevent-climate-action/a-64851705 https://www.icij.org/investigations/deforestation-inc/auditors-green-labels-sustainability-environmental-harm/

Does silicon shed microplastic? 

https://theecoshift.com/does-silicone-have-microplastics/

Ice consumption  America vs Europe: 

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/why-dont-other-countries-use-ice-cubes-50361097/

Impact on health of cold or hot drinks

https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/cold-and-hot-consumption-and-health-outcomes-among-us-asian-and-white-populations/8C45B97637E237244531C653E42D024E

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cold-water-vs-warm-water

https://www.mcgill.ca/oss/article/did-you-know/drink-hot-drinks-hot-weather-cool-down-faster

Electrolytes 

https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/Do-Electrolytes-Really-Boost-Hydration

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8471852/

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/best-electrolyte-sources

https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthy-aging-and-longevity/using-food-to-stay-hydrated

]]> 00:49:43 <![CDATA[The Roll Effect: Toilet Paper and Our Planet]]> Sat, 27 Jun 2026 04:43:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2519235 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/the-roll-effect-toilet-paper-and-our-planet In this episode, we take a closer look at the hidden impacts of one of our most everyday products: toilet paper.

We'll explore how our demand for toilet paper affects Canada's boreal forest, Brazil's eucalyptus plantations, and the forests of the southern United States. But the story doesn't end with trees. Many toilet paper products also contain potentially harmful contaminants, including PFAS ("forever chemicals") and chlorine-based compounds, raising important questions about their impact on both human health and the environment.

The good news? There are better options. We'll break down what you need to know about recycled and bamboo toilet paper, bidets, mullein leaves, and a few other surprising alternatives that could make your bathroom routine a little more sustainable.

]]> full false In this episode, we take a closer look at the hidden impacts of one of our most everyday products: toilet paper.

We'll explore how our demand for toilet paper affects Canada's boreal forest, Brazil's eucalyptus plantations, and the forests of the southern United States. But the story doesn't end with trees. Many toilet paper products also contain potentially harmful contaminants, including PFAS ("forever chemicals") and chlorine-based compounds, raising important questions about their impact on both human health and the environment.

The good news? There are better options. We'll break down what you need to know about recycled and bamboo toilet paper, bidets, mullein leaves, and a few other surprising alternatives that could make your bathroom routine a little more sustainable.

]]> 00:52:12 <![CDATA[Going Green with Bamboo]]> Sat, 30 May 2026 16:49:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2549615 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/going-green-with-bamboo Can bamboo help solve climate change? In this episode we explore why bamboo is becoming one of the fastest-growing sustainable industries in the world. From carbon capture and renewable building materials to biodegradable packaging, bamboo textiles, and surprising health benefits, discover why scientists, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists are calling bamboo one of the most valuable plants for a greener future.

]]> full false Can bamboo help solve climate change? In this episode we explore why bamboo is becoming one of the fastest-growing sustainable industries in the world. From carbon capture and renewable building materials to biodegradable packaging, bamboo textiles, and surprising health benefits, discover why scientists, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists are calling bamboo one of the most valuable plants for a greener future.

]]> 00:48:15 <![CDATA[Lace Up - What Your Shoes Aren’t Telling You]]> Mon, 27 Apr 2026 13:46:42 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2438251 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/health-and-environmental-impacts-of-shoe-consumption In this episode, we’re stepping into the world of shoes. But first—what if we didn’t wear them at all? Walking barefoot: more natural, cheaper, and maybe even healthier. Still, for most of us, shoes are a daily essential. So what are they really doing to our bodies? From high heels to running shoes to flip-flops, we break down the health impacts of what we put on our feet.

Then there’s the environmental side. We buy a lot of shoes—and all those plastics, dyes, and synthetic materials add up fast, leaving a much bigger footprint than we might think.

But it’s not all bad news. A wave of innovative, sustainable brands is changing the game—rethinking how shoes are made, from safer materials to better working conditions. We’ll explore alternatives like cotton, bamboo, cork, natural foams, and more—solutions that are easier on the planet, kinder to workers, and that don’t rely on animal exploitation.

Because in the end, the choice is yours: what kind of footprint do you want to leave behind?

References:

Shoe consumption per age https://www.restonyc.com/what-age-buys-the-most-shoes/

Bare feet, minimal footwear and conventional footwear health impacts https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11899058/

Effects of footwear on biomechanics of the body https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844025012514

The effects of grounding, walking barefoot https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/

Hill shoes health issues https://footwearmagazine.com/cleveland-clinic-high-heels-foot-problems/

Flip flops health isuues https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5862437/

CO2eq emissions per product https://www.co2everything.com/a-z

CO2 emissions of shoes production https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/14/6094

Environmental impacts of shoes https://www.natureworldnews.com/articles/49925/20220315/the-impact-of-the-shoe-industry-on-the-environment.htm

Kangoroos killed for leather for shoes The Truth About Leather & How it is Made | Animals Australia

Nine major athletic brands end kangaroo leather use in historic win

Eco friendly solutions

Materials : 10 Eco-Friendly Materials Used In The Making Of Sustainable Shoes | GreenSmartEco.com

Brands: 15 Best Sustainable Shoe Brands For 2026 - The Good Trade

Rain boots : 9 Sustainable Rain Boots For Naturally Green Puddle Play

]]> full false In this episode, we’re stepping into the world of shoes. But first—what if we didn’t wear them at all? Walking barefoot: more natural, cheaper, and maybe even healthier. Still, for most of us, shoes are a daily essential. So what are they really doing to our bodies? From high heels to running shoes to flip-flops, we break down the health impacts of what we put on our feet.

Then there’s the environmental side. We buy a lot of shoes—and all those plastics, dyes, and synthetic materials add up fast, leaving a much bigger footprint than we might think.

But it’s not all bad news. A wave of innovative, sustainable brands is changing the game—rethinking how shoes are made, from safer materials to better working conditions. We’ll explore alternatives like cotton, bamboo, cork, natural foams, and more—solutions that are easier on the planet, kinder to workers, and that don’t rely on animal exploitation.

Because in the end, the choice is yours: what kind of footprint do you want to leave behind?

References:

Shoe consumption per age https://www.restonyc.com/what-age-buys-the-most-shoes/

Bare feet, minimal footwear and conventional footwear health impacts https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11899058/

Effects of footwear on biomechanics of the body https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844025012514

The effects of grounding, walking barefoot https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4378297/

Hill shoes health issues https://footwearmagazine.com/cleveland-clinic-high-heels-foot-problems/

Flip flops health isuues https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5862437/

CO2eq emissions per product https://www.co2everything.com/a-z

CO2 emissions of shoes production https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/16/14/6094

Environmental impacts of shoes https://www.natureworldnews.com/articles/49925/20220315/the-impact-of-the-shoe-industry-on-the-environment.htm

Kangoroos killed for leather for shoes The Truth About Leather & How it is Made | Animals Australia

Nine major athletic brands end kangaroo leather use in historic win

Eco friendly solutions

Materials : 10 Eco-Friendly Materials Used In The Making Of Sustainable Shoes | GreenSmartEco.com

Brands: 15 Best Sustainable Shoe Brands For 2026 - The Good Trade

Rain boots : 9 Sustainable Rain Boots For Naturally Green Puddle Play

]]> 00:48:28 <![CDATA[Sowing the Future: A Gardener's choice]]> Sat, 28 Mar 2026 15:09:22 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2408284 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/as-gardeners-which-seeds-to-buy-and-why In this episode, The Choice is Yours team looks into seeds. As a consumer, a gardener, which seeds should I plant ? F1, hybrid, heirloom, home made, GMO? How our gardens can help protect biodiversity? What is the Seed banks' work? Is Seed Savers Exchange a good option ? What is Bill Gtes doing with seeds in Africa? How bad are the seeds from the supermarket? All that and more. 

References : 

About Eating to Extinction: The World’s Rarest Foods and Why We Need to Save Them, by Dan Saladino. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/apr/17/dan-saladino-food-diversity

The productivism point of view https://betternutritionnews.com/can-people-eat-more-today-than-20-years-ago/

Key messages from FAO’s International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/42209587-33f1-4546-9f56-35947af496b8/content

English Royal Botanic Garden and seed bank podcast https://www.kew.org/about-us/virtual-kew-wakehurst/unearthed-kew-podcast

About Bill Gates continuing the GMO crusade in Africa

https://www.thenation.com/article/world/new-colonialist-food-economy/

https://mg.co.za/africa/2024-09-03-bill-gates-plays-god-in-africas-agriculture-and-gets-it-wrong/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinero/2024/09/02/why-african-groups-want-reparations-from-the-gates-foundation/

Here is a clip of Vandana Shiva talking about Bill Gates and his role in seed banks : https://www.instagram.com/reels/DU19gQ1FULO/

Article by Vandana Shiva https://navdanyainternational.org/one-empire-over-seed-control-over-the-worlds-seed-banks/

A healthy microbiome comes with diversity https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4837298/

About GMO https://www.nongmoproject.org,

cornell.edu

healthline.com 

 Iamcountryside.com 

rivieraproduce.com 

]]> full false In this episode, The Choice is Yours team looks into seeds. As a consumer, a gardener, which seeds should I plant ? F1, hybrid, heirloom, home made, GMO? How our gardens can help protect biodiversity? What is the Seed banks' work? Is Seed Savers Exchange a good option ? What is Bill Gtes doing with seeds in Africa? How bad are the seeds from the supermarket? All that and more. 

References : 

About Eating to Extinction: The World’s Rarest Foods and Why We Need to Save Them, by Dan Saladino. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/apr/17/dan-saladino-food-diversity

The productivism point of view https://betternutritionnews.com/can-people-eat-more-today-than-20-years-ago/

Key messages from FAO’s International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/42209587-33f1-4546-9f56-35947af496b8/content

English Royal Botanic Garden and seed bank podcast https://www.kew.org/about-us/virtual-kew-wakehurst/unearthed-kew-podcast

About Bill Gates continuing the GMO crusade in Africa

https://www.thenation.com/article/world/new-colonialist-food-economy/

https://mg.co.za/africa/2024-09-03-bill-gates-plays-god-in-africas-agriculture-and-gets-it-wrong/

https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinero/2024/09/02/why-african-groups-want-reparations-from-the-gates-foundation/

Here is a clip of Vandana Shiva talking about Bill Gates and his role in seed banks : https://www.instagram.com/reels/DU19gQ1FULO/

Article by Vandana Shiva https://navdanyainternational.org/one-empire-over-seed-control-over-the-worlds-seed-banks/

A healthy microbiome comes with diversity https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4837298/

About GMO https://www.nongmoproject.org,

cornell.edu

healthline.com 

 Iamcountryside.com 

rivieraproduce.com 

]]> 00:49:33 <![CDATA[Foam up and smell the consequences - Coffee shops]]> Sun, 01 Mar 2026 07:47:17 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2377954 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/foam-up-and-smell-the-consequences-coffee-shops In this episode, we trace how coffee fueled the rise of industrialization and capitalism — keeping factories running and workers awake — before diving deep into the world of modern coffee shops.

From cozy local cafés to global corporate chains, we unpack what’s really brewing behind the counter: union battles and worker strikes, slavery investigations in supply chains, the staggering amounts of added sugar in popular drinks, and even the pesticides found in certain blends.

All that, and more, in your daily cup.

]]> full false In this episode, we trace how coffee fueled the rise of industrialization and capitalism — keeping factories running and workers awake — before diving deep into the world of modern coffee shops.

From cozy local cafés to global corporate chains, we unpack what’s really brewing behind the counter: union battles and worker strikes, slavery investigations in supply chains, the staggering amounts of added sugar in popular drinks, and even the pesticides found in certain blends.

All that, and more, in your daily cup.

]]> 00:46:05 <![CDATA[Wake up and smell the consequences - Coffee]]> Wed, 28 Jan 2026 03:36:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2373230 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/wake-up-and-smell-the-consequences-ep-1 In this episode, Doro, Dani, and Sheila take you on a journey through the world of coffee — from its origins in Ethiopia to the realities of deforestation and modern-day slavery in Brazil.

Next month, we’ll focus on coffee shops. But for now, we’re starting at home with ground coffee. Who are the biggest ground coffee brands in the U.S., and how sustainable are they? Which certifications can you trust? Is truly sustainable coffee even possible? What’s the story behind “shade-grown” coffee? How to save birds through buying your coffe ? And is coffee actually good for your health?

All that — and so much more — in this deep dive into what’s really in your cup.

]]> full false In this episode, Doro, Dani, and Sheila take you on a journey through the world of coffee — from its origins in Ethiopia to the realities of deforestation and modern-day slavery in Brazil.

Next month, we’ll focus on coffee shops. But for now, we’re starting at home with ground coffee. Who are the biggest ground coffee brands in the U.S., and how sustainable are they? Which certifications can you trust? Is truly sustainable coffee even possible? What’s the story behind “shade-grown” coffee? How to save birds through buying your coffe ? And is coffee actually good for your health?

All that — and so much more — in this deep dive into what’s really in your cup.

]]> 00:47:26 <![CDATA[Tater Talks : Health, Earth, and Society]]> Thu, 27 Nov 2025 17:59:09 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2248352 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/tater-talks-health-earth-and-society In this episode, we are talking about the numerous health benefits of potatoes, but also their entry in the EWG's Dirty Dozen and their GMO versions. From the Andes to McDonalds, potatoes are the 4th biggest crop in the world, it was about time to understand it a bit more. 

]]> full false In this episode, we are talking about the numerous health benefits of potatoes, but also their entry in the EWG's Dirty Dozen and their GMO versions. From the Andes to McDonalds, potatoes are the 4th biggest crop in the world, it was about time to understand it a bit more. 

]]> 00:42:52 <![CDATA[Unpeeling the Avocado trend]]> Mon, 01 Sep 2025 16:06:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2165890 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/unpeeling-the-avocado-trend In this episode, we peel back the layers of America’s avocado obsession. While avocado toast may feel harmless, most of the fruit we consume comes from Mexico — where production is entangled with cartel involvement and violence.

We dig into the environmental consequences of this booming demand, focusing on land use, deforestation, and strained ecosystems. But it’s not all doom and gloom — avocados are a nutritious powerhouse, so how can we enjoy them responsibly?

Should we be choosing California-grown instead? Is there such a thing as an ethical avocado? Let’s explore what informed consumer choices look like, because once again, awareness is everything.

]]> full false In this episode, we peel back the layers of America’s avocado obsession. While avocado toast may feel harmless, most of the fruit we consume comes from Mexico — where production is entangled with cartel involvement and violence.

We dig into the environmental consequences of this booming demand, focusing on land use, deforestation, and strained ecosystems. But it’s not all doom and gloom — avocados are a nutritious powerhouse, so how can we enjoy them responsibly?

Should we be choosing California-grown instead? Is there such a thing as an ethical avocado? Let’s explore what informed consumer choices look like, because once again, awareness is everything.

]]> 00:45:03 <![CDATA[Shelling out those eggs]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2025 21:38:44 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2020182 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/shelling-out-those-eggs In this episode, we crack into the environmental, health, and social impacts of egg consumption and production. From the stench of industrial egg factories to the evolving science on cholesterol, we explore the complicated role eggs play in our diets. Eggs can be a powerhouse of nutrition—but it depends on how and where they're produced. We talk free-range, tree-range, pasture-raised, and even the benefits (and challenges) of backyard chickens. And yes, salmonella still lurks in the shadows.

]]> full false In this episode, we crack into the environmental, health, and social impacts of egg consumption and production. From the stench of industrial egg factories to the evolving science on cholesterol, we explore the complicated role eggs play in our diets. Eggs can be a powerhouse of nutrition—but it depends on how and where they're produced. We talk free-range, tree-range, pasture-raised, and even the benefits (and challenges) of backyard chickens. And yes, salmonella still lurks in the shadows.

]]> 00:49:48 <![CDATA[The Milk without the Cow]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2025 20:56:43 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/2020168 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/the-milk-without-the-cow Part 3 of our three-part series on milk. We examine deeper the environmental footprint of cow’s milk, then swirl into a conversation about cultured dairy like yogurt and kefir. Finally, we pour over the world of milk alternatives—from goat to almond to macadamia—always keeping an eye on the environmental and health impacts of our choices.

]]> full false Part 3 of our three-part series on milk. We examine deeper the environmental footprint of cow’s milk, then swirl into a conversation about cultured dairy like yogurt and kefir. Finally, we pour over the world of milk alternatives—from goat to almond to macadamia—always keeping an eye on the environmental and health impacts of our choices.

]]> 00:45:36 <![CDATA[The Real Scoop on Dairy]]> Fri, 28 Feb 2025 01:37:05 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/1983383 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/227-4 In Dirt on the Milky Way, we took a hard look at the dairy industry and its impact on farmers and health. In this episode, 2nd of a 3 parts series, we’re bringing it closer to home, getting the inside scoops from a local regenerative farmer. Cody Nicholson Stratton of Foggy Bottoms Boys farm in Ferndale, CA, joins us to break down what sustainable dairy looks like—compared to what Big Milk is doing elsewhere.

We dive into manure management strategies that reduce methane emissions, the role of different cow breeds, and what makes Humboldt County dairy unique. Plus, we get into the buzz around raw milk and A2 milk.

]]> full false In Dirt on the Milky Way, we took a hard look at the dairy industry and its impact on farmers and health. In this episode, 2nd of a 3 parts series, we’re bringing it closer to home, getting the inside scoops from a local regenerative farmer. Cody Nicholson Stratton of Foggy Bottoms Boys farm in Ferndale, CA, joins us to break down what sustainable dairy looks like—compared to what Big Milk is doing elsewhere.

We dive into manure management strategies that reduce methane emissions, the role of different cow breeds, and what makes Humboldt County dairy unique. Plus, we get into the buzz around raw milk and A2 milk.

]]> 00:55:04 <![CDATA[Dirt on the Milky Way]]> Fri, 31 Jan 2025 02:26:19 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/1954690 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/dirt-on-the-milky-way 1st of a 3 part series about dairy, this episode looks at the complicated lives of dairy farmers and the health impacts of consumming milk. One thing that is for sure is that they are lying to us through advertising about the beautiful cows in green pastures feeding some cute blond kids. But what is really behind this false image! 

]]> full false 1st of a 3 part series about dairy, this episode looks at the complicated lives of dairy farmers and the health impacts of consumming milk. One thing that is for sure is that they are lying to us through advertising about the beautiful cows in green pastures feeding some cute blond kids. But what is really behind this false image! 

]]> 00:51:57 <![CDATA[The Buzz on Booze]]> Fri, 31 Jan 2025 02:07:58 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/1954687 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/the-buzz-on-booze Let's talk about the impacts of our consumptions of alcohol from the water needed in the brewing process of beer to the role of alcohol in society and the impacts of acoholism. Dani, Sheila and Doro dive into the subject and relate what they've learned on the internet.

]]> full false Let's talk about the impacts of our consumptions of alcohol from the water needed in the brewing process of beer to the role of alcohol in society and the impacts of acoholism. Dani, Sheila and Doro dive into the subject and relate what they've learned on the internet.

]]> 00:51:13 <![CDATA[Worth your salt]]> Wed, 15 Jan 2025 18:40:00 +0000 Doro, Dani and Sheila https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/63602/episode/1976534 https://the-choice-is-yours.castos.com/episodes/1024-4 The rise of human civilization is deeply tied to the quest for salt. Yet today, salt is so common, accessible, and inexpensive that we couldn’t resist dedicating an episode to it. We dive into its rich history, production methods, health effects, and environmental impact. But is all salt the same? From refined table salt to Himalayan, sea, and Celtic salt—it can get pretty confusing. So, let’s break it down. Is salt truly essential for health, or as harmful as some claim? And what about microplastics in sea salt? Let’s dig in!

]]> false The rise of human civilization is deeply tied to the quest for salt. Yet today, salt is so common, accessible, and inexpensive that we couldn’t resist dedicating an episode to it. We dive into its rich history, production methods, health effects, and environmental impact. But is all salt the same? From refined table salt to Himalayan, sea, and Celtic salt—it can get pretty confusing. So, let’s break it down. Is salt truly essential for health, or as harmful as some claim? And what about microplastics in sea salt? Let’s dig in!

]]> 00:41:43