the kale project: meet Kristen Beddard

‘The Kale Project’ – I really do like a good project, and this one is special. Some of you may remember reading about it and the woman who was championing the re-introduction of kale in France, in the New York Times. I remember thinking then, what an endeavor -- reintroducing a lost vegetable to a country that prides itself on heirloom foods. I am still in awe of what she has been able to do.

One day last summer I put out a plea on social media, looking for a female farmer to interview in France. There were a few responses from various folks, and then there was one from the Kale Project offering assistance. And that is how I met the dynamo behind The Kale Project. Kristen Beddard and I immediately exchanged a few emails, skyped and discussed some possible women farmers and timelines and then made plans to meet up in France to visit one or two together. 

It’s a natural fit, an exciting and well-timed opportunity  – the woman who loves kale and the woman who loves female farmers to meet and seek both together.  And so we did, I traveled with my family to Bordeaux and then rented a car to drive the 2 hours to the small village in the Midi-Pyrenees – we met up at the home of Farmers Marion Sourdois and Nicolas Sarle in Condom, France. 

Kristen Beddard - The Kale Project

Over the next 36 hours I got to know both Marion and Kristen. We visited Marion's greenhouse and had the opportunity to learn the motivation behind the work that Kristen is doing in France. 

I thought I would try to tell you her story, but this great video by Dark Rye, Whole Food’s online magazine not only shares her story – but also captures the wonderful essence of Kristen. 

UPDATE! Kristen has now published a memoir that is a must read for anyone who loves, France, Food and of course, KALE! I highly recommend it - after I did, I personally bought three more copies to give away on my facebook and instagram pages. 
 

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A travel weary Audra, farmer Marion and kale champion Kristen