BIOACTIVE
BIOACTIVE
Riley D. Kirk, Ph.D.
Unlocking Soil Secrets (& Science) with Brandon Rust
1 hour 21 minutes Posted May 29, 2026 at 12:56 pm.
Childhood Foster Trauma
Podcast Intro Guest Setup
Night Terrors And Meds
Rebellion Cannabis Awakening
Hard Living Jail Time
Finding Family OG Growers
Electricity Tap First Grow
Science Mind Organic Shift
Agronomy Regenerative Basics
Soil Carbon Microbes Cycles
Living Soil Vs Mixes Brand
Choosing The Right Formula
Fixing Sandy Acidic Soil
Fulvic Acid Benefits Explained
Why Synthetic Fertilizer Wastes Energy
Soil Building And Carbon Nitrogen Ratios
Sulfur Aminos And Skunky Terps
Flushing Myths And Ash Color
Water Quality pH And Soil Tests
Nutrient Calculator And Data Workflow
Terroir VPD And Calcium Dynamics
Biological Crop Steering Microbes
Where To Learn More And Final Wrap
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Show notes
In this episode of the Bioactive Podcast, Dr. Riley Kirk is joined by Brandon Rust, founder and CEO of FulCrop Sciences, for a fascinating conversation about the hidden biological systems that drive plant health and productivity. Brandon shares insights from years of cultivation experience, explaining how modern growing practices have shifted away from natural ecosystem processes and why rebuilding biological balance may be one of the most important steps for improving plant performance and long-term sustainability.
The discussion explores how microbes, organic matter, mineral interactions, and natural nutrient cycling influence everything from root development to crop resilience and overall plant quality. Brandon also breaks down practical approaches growers can use to better support healthy ecosystems while reducing dependence on heavily synthetic inputs.
They also discuss practical cultivation strategies for home growers and commercial cultivators alike, including compost teas, microbial inoculants, biological crop steering, mineral balancing, and the importance of understanding soil as a dynamic ecosystem rather than an inert growing medium. The discussion further examines the intersection of plant science, sustainability, cannabis cultivation, food systems, and the future of regenerative farming. Throughout the episode, Brandon shares insights into biological fertility, plant stress responses, nutrient cycling, and how healthier soils can ultimately lead to healthier plants and healthier people.
Whether you’re interested in regenerative agriculture, cannabis cultivation, soil science, plant biology, sustainable farming, or microbial ecology, this episode is packed with practical insights and science-backed education.
Chapters:
Connect with Brandon Rust & FulCrop Sciences
Follow Brandon and FulCrop Sciences for more information on regenerative agriculture, soil biology, microbial systems, and carbon-based fertility:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/brandonrust
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@fulcropsciences
Podcast: www.youtube.com/@fulcropsciences
Website: FulCrop Sciences
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