About Mike Kempenich

For over two decades, Mike Kempenich has been at the forefront of the wild food movement, bridging the gap between foragers, chefs, and everyday adventurers seeking a deeper connection to nature. As the founder of Gentleman Forager, Mike has built a brand known for its commitment to education, exploration, and high-quality wild foods.

Mike’s journey into mycology began long before it was a trend. From his early days foraging in the forests of the Midwest to becoming one of the region’s most respected wild food experts, he has dedicated his life to understanding and sharing the world of fungi. He was one of Minnesota’s first large-scale mushroom cultivators and has spent years supplying some of the nation’s top chefs with wild-foraged ingredients.

In addition to his work in the field, Mike has taught wild mushroom identification at both the University of Minnesota and the University of Wisconsin, helping thousands of students—both professional and amateur—gain confidence in identifying, harvesting, and using wild fungi. He has been a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise on the science, history, and culinary uses of mushrooms and wild foods.

Previously, Mike founded Forest to Fork, the nation’s first wild foods grocer, which became known for its stunning 20-foot glass-enclosed mushroom cultivation tower, growing a rotating selection of specialty mushrooms in full view of customers. The innovative concept received national press attention and showcased his belief that food should be both experiential and educational.

After selling the company in 2023, he continued his work through Gentleman Forager, expanding into functional mushroom products and immersive experiences that bring people closer to nature through food. Today, Gentleman Forager offers a range of wild foods and functional mushroom innovations, including Headwater, a lightly carbonated, fruit-flavored beverage infused with mushrooms and plant-based ingredients. Designed to promote health and wellness, Headwater reflects Mike’s ongoing commitment to making wild foods accessible in new and exciting ways.

Through Forager’s Digest, Mike shares his passion for wild food, blending science, storytelling, and hands-on experience to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Whether he’s leading a foraging walk, developing a new mushroom-infused product, or sitting down with chefs to discuss the best ways to cook with wild ingredients, his goal remains the same:To help people rediscover the rich, untapped flavors growing all around them.