GCU GROW: From Campus Gardens to Global Impact

Episode Summary

In this inspiring episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon welcomes leaders and changemakers from Grand Canyon University (GCU) — Dr. Dina, Assistant Dean of Science, and student leader Matt — along with co-host Joe Rozelle. Together they explore how students and faculty are partnering with Urban Farming Education (UFE) to create meaningful sustainability initiatives on campus and beyond. From launching the new GCU GROW club to planning international eco-tourism experiences in Zimbabwe, this conversation highlights the power of hands-on education, community action, and youth leadership in closing the gap between information and action. Listeners will hear about building foodscapes on campus, fostering global perspectives through travel, and leaving a lasting social footprint in local and international communities.

Why Listen?

At Harvesting Wisdom, we believe that “We have all taken a bite out of the apple”—we all share responsibility for the sustainability challenges we face. This episode will empower you to turn inspiration into action and see how young leaders like Matt are proving that anyone can make a difference. Whether you're a student, educator, or community leader, you’ll discover practical ways to bridge the gap between knowledge and implementation, creating a legacy of resilience and positive change.

Timestamps

• 00:01:05 – Meet the guests: GCU leaders and their inspiring backgrounds
• 00:06:06 – GCU’s partnership with UFE and the importance of hands-on learning
• 00:08:22 – Matt’s journey: From Brazil to GCU and finding purpose in sustainability
• 00:13:09 – Launching eco-tourism initiatives in Zimbabwe with GCU students
• 00:19:34 – The transformative power of student travel and experiential education
• 00:28:25 – GCU GROW Club: Building foodscapes and rethinking campus sustainability
• 00:33:44 – Planning the next sustainability conference: Student-led impact
• 00:41:50 – Why bother? The case for collective action in a cynical world
• 00:44:22 – Call to action: Get involved, stay inspired, leave your social footprint

Call to Action

 Join the movement to close the gap between information and action.

• Visit weareufe.org to support Urban Farming Education.
• Subscribe to Harvesting Wisdom on YouTube and your favorite podcast app.
• Partner with us or donate to help leave a lasting social footprint in communities worldwide.

#SustainableAgriculture, #ClimateSmartEducation, #UrbanFarming, #GCUGrow, #HarvestingWisdom, #EcoTourism, #YouthLeadership, #FoodSecurity, #GlobalImpact, #CloseTheGap