What do hoop houses, vertical farms and DIY hydroponic systems all have in common? They are all part of controlled environment agriculture, or CEA — a rapidly growing field that lets farmers, researchers and even home gardeners produce crops year-round by shaping the growing environment. 

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we sit down with Rhuanito Ferrarezi, associate professor of horticulture in the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), and Ruchika Kashyap, assistant professor of plant pathology at CAES and UGA Cooperative Extension specialist.

Both are members of the college's “fab five” of CEA. Together, they unpack what CEA is and how it differs from traditional farming, why Georgia — and CAES in particular — are emerging as a hub for greenhouse innovation, and what it could mean for food security, sustainability, and local access to fresh produce in the years ahead.

Content from CAES:

• CAES alumnus joins UGA-Griffin faculty to expand food production through controlled environment agriculture
• Controlled environment agriculture poised to become a growth industry
• CAES partners with Agrify to grow vertical farming efforts
• CAES vertical farming research sheds light on producing medicinal compounds

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Did you know your septic system is basically a mini wastewater treatment plant in your own backyard? In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, University of Georgia Cooperative Extension water resource expert Gary Hawkins shares the science of septic systems and offers simple steps homeowners can take to keep them working properly. From what not to flush and how to avoid “commode overload” to protecting your drain field and scheduling inspections, you’ll learn six essential tips to maintain a healthy septic tank, protect your well water and avoid costly repairs. Whether you’re on a septic system or municipal sewer, these practical strategies can help you safeguard your home and community.

Resources:

• CAES Water Resources Team site
• A Beginner’s Guide to Septic Systems (UGA Extension expert resource)
• On-Site Wastewater Management Systems and Their Environmental Impact (UGA Extension expert resource)
• United States Environmental Protection Agency septic system resources

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Produced and edited by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

June marks the start of hurricane season in Georgia — and there’s no better time to prepare than on a sunny day. In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we’re joined by Pam Knox, agricultural climatologist and director of the UGA Weather Network, to unpack what hurricane season means for Georgia residents. Pam breaks down the terms residents often hear but may not fully grasp, explaining the difference between weather and climate, how the El Niño–Southern Oscillation impacts hurricane activity, and how Georgia’s farmers rely on real-time data from UGA’s 90 weather stations across the state. We also discuss NOAA’s predictions for an above-average 2025 Atlantic hurricane season and what that could mean in practical terms. Whether you're managing a farm or prepping your household, Pam shares her top three tips to stay safe and minimize damage. And if you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry — we’ve included links to several helpful UGA Extension resources in the show notes.

Resources:

• Find your UGA Cooperative Extension office
• UGA Cooperative Extension Weather Emergency Resources
• UGA Weather Network
• UGA Climate Blog
• Resident’s Handbook To Prepare for Natural Hazards in Georgia
• Georgia Hurricane Evacuation Zones
• USDA Hurricane Preparation and Recovery Guides for Georgia Producers
  
  

Content from CAES:

• Weathering change: How can we achieve agricultural resilience in a changing climate?
• What the warmest year on record means for agriculture in 2025

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller. Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we dive into the science behind composting with two University of Georgia Cooperative Extension experts — what composting is, why it matters and how you can start doing it right at home. Whether you’re new to composting or looking to improve your bin game, this episode breaks down the basics, offers beginner-friendly tips and shares the real-life benefits of turning your food scraps into nutrient-rich soil. Plus, learn how composting can save you money and help the planet, one banana peel at a time.

Resources:

• Find your UGA Cooperative Extension office
• Composting and mulching (UGA Extension publication)
• Composting: Recycling Landscape Trimmings (UGA Extension publication)
• Composting with UGArden
  
  

Content from CAES:

• Should you be composting?
• Spring is a perfect time to start composting
• Quick intro to vermicomposting (Instagram Reel)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

As temperatures rise and Georgians head outdoors, the battle against bloodsucking pests begins in earnest. In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we are joined by CAES entomologist Nancy Hinkle and public health Extension specialist Elmer Gray for a practical, no-nonsense look at two of the South’s most irritating pests: ticks and mosquitoes. In the first half of the episode, we learn essential advice on tick prevention and simple strategies for protecting our families, pets, and landscape without solely relying on pesticides. In the second half, we hear tips on how to avoid bites and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. Whether you're an avid outdoors person or just mowing the lawn, this episode will leave you better prepared to face the bugs of summer—and a little more curious about the critters creeping around your backyard.

Resources:

• Mosquito Control Around the Home (UGA Cooperative Extension publication)
• Mosquito Biology and Behavior (UGA Cooperative Extension publication)
• The Intersection of Mosquito Management and Pollinator Protection (UGA Cooperative Extension publication)
• Protect Yourself from Ticks (UGA Cooperative Extension publication)

Content from CAES:

• Community clean-ups are an important part of mosquito management 
• Mosquito activity booming in Georgia's late-summer heat
• There are 63 species of mosquito in Georgia — and they are still biting
• Help prevent the spread of dengue fever
• Summertime is tick time in Georgia; time to get tick-smart
• Disease-bearing Asian longhorned tick found in north Georgia

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a forme

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Happy New Year, listeners! In this episode, we dive into one of the toughest New Year’s resolutions: improving time management. Joined by Travis Mountain, UGA Cooperative Extension specialist in financial planning, we break down 10 practical strategies from the popular UGA Extension publication 10 Strategies for Better Time Management. From tracking how you spend your time to delegating tasks and conquering procrastination, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you make the most of 2025.

Resources:

• 10 Strategies for Better Time Management (UGA Cooperative Extension publication)
• Travis Mountain's faculty profile
• UGA Extension publications by Travis Mountain
• UGA Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)

Content from CAES:

• Free your mind and space from clutter in the new year

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Managing a hub of innovation is no small feat, but for Eric Elsner, superintendent of the J. Phil Campbell Research and Education Center, it’s a daily opportunity to make an impact. In this episode, Eric shares how he oversees multidisciplinary research projects designed to tackle real-world challenges Georgia farmers face. From managing collaborative studies to supporting student workers in unique hands-on learning experiences, Eric highlights how the center serves as a bridge between cutting-edge science, practical Extension work and the farming community. Join us as we explore his passion for fostering connections between research, education and community-building and how the center’s efforts are shaping a stronger future for agriculture in Georgia.

Resources:

• CAES Research and Education Centers
• J. Phil Campbell REC
• Finding UGA Cooperative Extension County offices
• Oconee County Extension office

Content from UGA/CAES:

• Photo and video from tour of J. Phil Campbell REC cotton harvest
• Superintendent builds upon mission at research and education center (feature story)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we’re joined by Bethany Harris, director of the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture, to discuss her vision for the center as it works to meet the growing needs of urban agriculture in Georgia. As cities across the state expand, so does the need for innovative agricultural practices that support sustainable growth and resilient communities. Harris shares how the center is driving collaboration and research across various disciplines to tackle these challenges head-on while supporting future academic programming that will open educational and career pathways for students eager to shape the future of urban agriculture. Tune in to learn how the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture is working to redefine agriculture’s role in urban areas, building a foundation for thriving cities and a sustainable future.

Resources:

• Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture
• UGA Food Product Innovation & Commercialization Center (FoodPIC)
• UGA Griffin Campus
• UGA Turf Team
• Controlled Environment Agriculture at UGA

Content from CAES:

• Taking Control of the future of agriculture (immersive story)
• From jellyfish to pomegranates: Revolutionizing food processing in Georgia (podcast)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, Kaitlyn Casulli, assistant professor and UGA Cooperative Extension process specialist in the CAES Department of Food Science and Technology, shares her journey into food science and her fascinating work with food safety, thermal processing and her efforts to support the craft beverage industry in rural Georgia. She also introduces the new Value-addition Institute for Business Expansion (VIBE) initiative, helping Georgia's growers increase profits through value-added products. Plus, don't miss a surprising discussion about edible insects!

Resources:

• CAES Department of Food Science and Technology
• Value-added Institute for Business Expansion (VIBE)
• Food Product Innovation and Commercialization Center (FoodPIC)
• UGA College of Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS)

Content from CAES:

• Georgia agricultural innovation center to bring farmers from fresh to value-added markets (news story)
• UGA Extension food scientist hosts new brewing workshop (news story)
• From jellyfish to pomegranates: Revolutionizing food processing in Georgia (podcast)
• Healthy holidays: Food safety tips for gifts and gatherings (podcast)
• Sip, savor, succeed: Inside the Flavor of Georgia food contest (podcast)
• Add a little crunch to your diet with cicadas: How to harvest, store and prepare food from Brood XIX emergence in Georgia (blog post)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Do you know where your T-shirt got its start? In this episode, we travel to Tifton, Georgia, to speak with Camp Hand, assistant professor in the CAES Department of Crop and Soil Sciences and a key member of the UGA Cotton Team. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of cotton agronomy, the importance of UGA's experiment stations and the collaborative nature of the cotton industry in Georgia. Camp shares insights into the sustainable practices adopted by cotton growers, the critical role of research and the unique challenges that arise each year. The episode also touches on Camp's dedication to supporting farmers through difficult times, including efforts to address rural and farm stress.

Resources:

• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Cotton Team
• CAES Research and Education Centers
• Rural Georgia: Growing Stronger website
• Thriving on the Farm interview with Camp Hand
• Talkin' Cotton podcast

Content from CAES:

• UGA Tifton Cotton Micro Gin (TikTok)
• Breaking stigma: Mental health solutions in farming and rural communities (podcast)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we sit down with Ty Brooks, farm director at UGArden, UGA's student community farm. Join us as Ty shares his journey and insights into the daily operations of UGArden, a unique space dedicated to research, teaching and outreach. Discover how UGArden engages students through internships, volunteer opportunities and hands-on learning experiences while giving back to the community by combating food insecurity. Ty discusses the farm's partnerships with various UGA programs and community organizations, the importance of sustainable agriculture and the innovative projects at UGArden, including their popular herbal tea program.

Resources:

• UGArden website
• UGArden video
• Opportunities to volunteer at UGArden
• CAES Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communication
• UGA Office of Sustainability

Content from CAES:

• Profile on Ty Brooks 
• UGArden herbal tea program launches sales in campus dining halls (news story)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this quick episode, co-host Jordan Powers pops in ahead of the holiday weekend to share a Cultivating Curiosity hosting update. It's a tale of two Emilys listeners won't want to miss!

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we explore the long, illustrious career of Larry Beuchat, professor emeritus at UGA's Center for Food Safety. Larry shares his journey from Penn State to Quaker Oats, where he worked on iconic projects like candies for the film "Willy Wonka," and then to UGA, where he spent over 50 years in food safety research. Larry discusses the evolution of research funding, his passion for mentoring students and emerging food safety challenges. He emphasizes the role of prevention and consumer awareness in tackling foodborne illnesses.

Resources:

• The University of Georgia Center for Food Safety (CFS)
• The International Association for Food Protection (IAFP)
• The International Committee on Food Microbiology and Hygiene

Content from CAES:

• Serving up the facts: Food science and safety (podcast)
• Healthy holidays: Food safety tips for gifts and gatherings (podcast)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Join us as we delve into the world of urban entomology with two of the field's leading experts: Dan Suiter, Orkin Professor of Urban Entomology and UGA Cooperative Extension entomologist, and Glen Ramsey, director of Rollins Entomology Department Technical Services. 

Discover the nuances of urban entomology and its impact on our daily lives, from homes to hospitals. Learn about the unique partnership between CAES and Orkin, exploring how it enhances research, benefits the pest control industry and ultimately serves the public. Dan and Glen also discuss the future of urban entomology and the cutting-edge research emerging from this collaboration.

Resources:

• UGA Cooperative Extension Structural Pest Management website
• Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
• Insect and Arthropod Pests of Southeastern Neighborhoods: A Guide to Identification and Management

Content from CAES:

• Orkin establishes urban entomology professorship (news story)
• Exploring entomology - the secret lives of insects (podcast)
• Is that a roach or a palmetto bug? (news story)

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Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we sit down with Angelos Deltsidis, assistant professor and postharvest Extension specialist at the University of Georgia Tifton campus, to explore the important role postharvest physiology has in preserving the quality and safety of our food supply and its broader implications for agriculture and global food security. 

From the moment fruits and vegetables are harvested to the time they reach our tables, a complex journey unfolds. Tune in to hear how Angelos is developing both innovative technologies and low-tech solutions to tackle postharvest challenges, from controlled atmosphere storage to using natural coatings on fruits and vegetables.

Resources:

• U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)
• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
• Easy steps to reduce food waste from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Content from CAES:

• Serving up the facts: Food science and safety (podcast)
• Healthy holidays: Food safety tips for gifts and gatherings (podcast)
• Assistant professor uses ag tech to increase accessibility, reduce waste (news story)
• CAES researchers find simple solution to keep produce fresh, fight food waste (news story)

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Produced by Jordan Powers, Emily Davenport and Emily Cabrera
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we dive into the world of peach production with Dario Chavez, associate professor in the CAES Department of Horticulture. Join us as we explore the intricate relationship between science, agriculture and climate change, uncovering how chill hours impact peach production and discuss the future of peach breeding in the face of shifting climate trends. From innovative breeding techniques to evolving production management strategies, discover how researchers like Chavez collaborate with growers to develop resilient peach varieties and sustainable farming practices. Tune in for a juicy conversation about the peach industry's journey toward a fruitful future.

Resources:

• UGA Weather Network
• Attapulgus Research and Education Center

Stories from CAES:

• Weathering Change
• UGA Extension experts celebrated among 2023 Fruit and Vegetable 40 under 40
• Doctoral student at the Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics and Genomics uses 3D scanning technology to inform peaches of the future

Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Join us for an exclusive peek behind the curtain of one of the University of Georgia's most beloved events – the Flavor of Georgia food contest. In this episode, we sit down with Laurel Dunn, assistant professor and Extension coordinator in the Department of Food Science and Technology. From the initial product submission to the final judging round, Laurel explains the contest process to listeners, highlighting the categories available for contestants. Products submitted showcase the breadth of Georgia's culinary landscape, from savory snacks to delicious confections. From taste and texture to innovation and market potential, every aspect is scrutinized to ensure that only the finest products rise to the top. Listeners will learn about the rewards awaiting the winners, from invaluable exposure and networking opportunities to titles and recognition within Georgia's vibrant food industry. Whether you're a seasoned food entrepreneur or simply passionate about Georgia's gastronomic delights, this episode offers a glimpse into the heart of the Flavor of Georgia, illuminating the path to culinary success in the Peach State.

Resources
Flavor of Georgia's website
Other food science-related episodes:

• Episode with Manpreet Singh, food science and technology department head: Serving up the facts: Food science and safety
• Episode with Kevin Mis Solval: From jellyfish to pomegranates: Revolutionizing food processing in Georgia
• Episode with Carla Schwan: Healthy holidays: Food safety tips for gifts and gatherings

Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we sit down with Nick Place, Dean and Director of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia. Follow along as we learn about his journey from a Pennsylvania dairy farm to leading the forefront of agricultural and environmental science research, education and outreach. Hear about the dean's experiences in Extension work, international collaborations in Poland and the transition from being a Florida Gator to a Georgia Bulldog. Listen now to discover his achievements and aspirations in shaping the future of CAES, paving the way for innovation and impact in the ever-evolving fields of agricultural and environmental sciences.

Resources:

• The economic impact of CAES
• A Sense of Place
• The new Poultry Science Building is open for business
  • It's not too late – donate to the Poultry Science Building fund today! 
• UGA's Institute for Integrative Precision Agriculture
• Podcast episode: Shaping the future of sustainable farming technology through integrative precision agriculture (IPA)
• UGA's Institute of Plant Breeding, Genetics and Genomics
• Video: Plant breeding at UGA
• Podcast episode: Transforming medicine with biotechnology

See how we have fun while making an impact!
Video: Dawg Day of Giving 2022
Video: Dawg Day of Giving 2023
Dean Place sits down with Joyro the Joro spider
Dean Place is the 2021 milking champion

Edited by Jordan Powers
Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Carla Schwan, CAES assistant professor and UGA Cooperative Extension food safety specialist joins us for a food safety-themed holiday episode! Carla shares how to safely prepare and share food during the holiday season, including gifting homemade food items like infused oils, canned produce and baked goods. Listen in to learn easy ways to prevent foodborne illnesses during the holidays – and every day!

Resources

The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Big 9
Serving up the facts: Food science and safety with Manpreet Singh
FoodKeeper App from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)

UGA Extension:

• So Easy to Preserve
• Find your local county Extension office
• How to Safely Make Infused Oils: Best Practices for Food Safety (Extension publication)

CAES Newswire articles:

• Prevent raw flour from being a recipe for disaster in your kitchen
• How to safely infuse oil for homemade gifts
• Avoid foodborne illness when preserving food at home

Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Edited by Jordan Powers
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

Explore the heart of rural Georgia in this episode as we discuss the intersection of social work, agriculture and mental well-being with Anna Scheyett, professor in the CAES Department of Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication (ALEC) and former dean at the University of Georgia's School of Social Work. Anna shares how she is building more robust networks to dismantle mental health stigmas, advocate for farmers' health and mental well-being, and highlight the statewide work being done to promote resilience and build support in the communities that provide our food, fuel and fiber.

Resources:

Suicide Crisis Line: https://988lifeline.org/
Anna's Cultivate profile
Rural Georgia Growing Stronger webpage
Thriving on the Farm blog

• Camp Hand's blog post

SAGE Farm and Rancher Stress Network
Athens News Matters: Anna Scheyett Discusses Growth in Suicides Among Farmers
Live Well, Farm Well. Farm Strong - New Zealand: https://farmstrong.co.nz/
USDA-NIFA: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/

CAES Newswire Farm Stress Stories:
Organizations across Georgia come together to combat farm stress
Rural stress summit to connect Georgia farmers with community resources

Edited by Jordan Powers
Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we dive into the world of food processing with Kevin Mis Solval, associate professor in the University of Georgia's Department of Food Science and Technology. Discover how Georgia's food industry is embracing innovation, blending tradition with modernity to craft sustainable, high-quality products for the world in this episode of Cultivating Curiosity. Kevin discusses his groundbreaking research that embraces both cutting-edge technologies and centuries-old techniques. We hear about unexpected but successful ventures, like turning jellyfish into valuable food products! Listen in to learn how these innovations are reshaping the state's food landscape, creating sustainable solutions and setting the stage for a future where creativity meets industry expertise.

Resources:

Mini peach processing line photos
USDA-NIFA: https://www.nifa.usda.gov/
USAID: https://www.usaid.gov/

CAES Newswire stories:
UGA researchers develop market for jellyfish proteins in Georgia
UGA food scientists get creative with Georgia commodities
Grant boosts development of novel food ingredients from jellyfish
UGA food science student wins USDA NIFA predoctoral fellowship

More about cannonball jellies: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pi4zYrTSP0E

Edited by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Davenport
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and a recent University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we dig into the career of Dave Hoisington, director of the USAID Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Peanut at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Listeners will gain insights into the critical role of peanuts in global food security and how the Peanut Innovation Lab is leveraging cutting-edge research to transform peanut cultivation, marketing and consumption. From collaborating with international scientists to working closely with African peanut breeders, Dave shares stories of how genetic diversity analysis has led to the development of resilient peanut varieties that can withstand climate challenges and contribute to thriving farm systems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of science, sustainability and global well-being.

Resources:
List of all USAID Feed the Future Labs: https://www.usaid.gov/feed-the-future
The University of Georgia's wild peanut lab website: https://wildpeanutlab.uga.edu/
Danielle Essandoh, student researcher with the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Peanut 

Edited by Carly Mirabile and Jordan Powers
Produced by Jordan Powers, Emily Davenport, Carly Mirabile
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and a recent University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we took a deep dive into the Hospitality and Food Industry Management (HFIM) program at the University of Georgia with John Salazar, professor and program coordinator. Listen in as John shares his passion for the field and highlights the incredible opportunities and growth in the world of hospitality. Learn about the broad scope of the industry, its incredible economic impact in Georgia and the program's collaborative partnerships with other departments at UGA. Get a peek into the future as he unveils plans for study abroad opportunities, new courses and the expansion of agritourism workshops. Join us for a glimpse into the hospitality ecosystem!

Links:

Learn more about the Hospitality and Food Industry Management (HFIM) program at UGA
UGA hospitality director leads explosive enrollment growth
UGA prepares workforce for Georgia’s second-largest industry
UGA hospitality program booming as it enters its fourth year

Get social with HFIM:
Facebook: University of Georgia Hospitality and Food Industry Management
Instagram: @ugahfim
LinkedIn: University of Georgia Hospitality & Food Industry Management
Twitter: @hfimuga

Edited by Carly Mirabile
Produced by Jordan Powers, Emily Davenport, Carly Mirabile
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and a recent University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

We sat down with Becky Griffin, community and school garden coordinator within the Georgia Center for Urban Agriculture, to chat about the Great Southeast Pollinator Census. Learn more about this project she piloted in Georgia in 2017, which has since expanded across the southeastern U.S., to inspire citizens to become pollinator advocates. And of course, we can't talk about pollinators without discussing bees and the wonders of honey. Join us as we explore the history of the census, how you can participate and the fascinating world of pollinators with Becky!

Resources:

The Great Southeast Pollinator Census website
Find your local Extension office
Olli at the University of Georgia
The University of Georgia Bee Lab website
Video from Becky's trip to see the monarchs 

Edited by Carly Mirabile
Produced by Jordan Powers, Emily Davenport, Carly Mirabile
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and a recent University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

In this episode, we chat with Kris Braman, head of the Department of Entomology at the University of Georgia, to learn about the diversity of research taking place in the department, including insect microbial interactions, wetland ecology, household and structural entomology, and integrated pest management (IPM). Listen in to learn about fun public outreach events, career opportunities, partnerships with industry like Orkin and the broad impact of entomology research, from revolutionizing medical fields to benefitting agriculture worldwide.

Resources:
Study entomology at UGA!
Integrated pest management (IPM) website
Read about the Orkin urban entomology professorship at UGA.
Learn more about the work the Strand Lab is doing regarding human health and insect vectors.
Learn about IPM on TikTok!
The Center for Urban Agriculture
Find your local county Extension office
Watch Kris's TEDXAtlanta talk
Diverse landscapes are at the heart of bee conservation
Where do bees go in the winter?

Edited by Carly Mirabile
Produced by Jordan Powers, Emily Davenport, Carly Mirabile
Music and sound effects by Mason McClintock, an Athens-based singer, songwriter and storyteller who creates innovative soul-pop music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. Hailing from small-town Southeast Georgia, Mason's influences range from the purest pop to the most powerful gospel. Mason is a former Georgia 4-H'er and a recent University of Georgia graduate! Listen to his music on Spotify. 

Get social with us!
Follow CAES on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn and check out UGA Extension on on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest updates.