39. Empowering Indigenous Knowledge: The Food Sovereignty Lab with Dr. Kaitlin Reed

In this episode of Hands in the Soil, we’re joined by Dr. Kaitlin Reed (Yurok/Hupa/Oneida), an enrolled member of the Yurok Tribe and associate professor of Native American Studies at Cal Poly Humboldt. Dr. Reed also serves as the Co-Director of the Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab and Traditional Ecological Knowledges Institute - the first lab of its kind in the California State University system.

Dr. Reed shares the story behind this student-led initiative, which provides a groundbreaking space to engage with Indigenous sciences, collaborate with tribal nations, and amplify Indigenous bio-cultural sovereignty. We explore the meaning and depth of food sovereignty, why it matters beyond access and insecurity, and how the Lab is creating pathways for environmental justice, cultural revitalization, and community healing.

We also celebrate the Lab’s recent recognition as a 2025 James Irvine Foundation Leadership Award recipient - a $350,000 grant supporting the Lab’s continued work advancing Indigenous knowledge and food systems.

Tune in to learn more about:

• The Rou Dalagurr Food Sovereignty Lab and its student-led founding

• What sets this Lab apart in the CSU system and Western academia

• How Indigenous food sovereignty differs from mainstream food access models

• Cultural, ecological, and spiritual dimensions of traditional food systems

• How the Lab operates with grassroots support and community programming

• The significance of receiving the James Irvine Foundation Award

• Future visions for the Lab, including an Indigenous Food Network

• How students, communities, and allies can get involved

… And so much more!

Resources & Links:

• Learn more about the Food Sovereignty Lab: nasp.humboldt.edu/fsl

Connect with Hannah:

• Instagram: @hannahkeitel