Preparing for the Unthinkable with Sandie Barden

Recording date: January 27, 2026

Welcome to the second season of Food, Flowers, & Fun: Visits with farm women from around the world! Episode six features apple orchardist Sandra Barden of Barden Family Orchard as we discuss:

• Marrying into the farm family
• Growing organic apples
• Listening to customers
• Rebuilding after the death of the primary farmer
• Much, much more!

You will love this positive and determined farmer!

#IYWF2026

About Sandie:

Sandra Barden is the owner/operator of Barden Family Orchard in Rhode Island. She managed the farm with her husband, Gil, for twenty-five years until tragedy struck in 2023, leaving her both a widow and the primary farm operator. Because the business had been set up as a sole proprietorship, Sandie had to set up a completely new business structure while navigating her grief…all during the beginning of the growing season.

Connect with Sandie at: 

• Website: https://bardenfamilyorchard.com/
• Facebook: @bardenfamilyorchard
• Instagram: @barden_family_orchard
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-barden-9a815831/

Connect with K at: 

• Website: https://www.penlightfarmers.com
• YouTube: @k.castrataro3466 
• Facebook and Instagram: @penlightfarmers
• Podcast (audio): https://www.penlightfarmers.com/podcast 
• Podcast (video): https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIVBn53rrIsTwS4ag6hH4DHnxG_Lxqt7x