Cultivating Curiosity

CAES Office of Marketing and Communications
  • 4.5 (8)
  • SCIENCE

On Cultivating Curiosity, we get down and dirty with the experts on all the ways science and agriculture touch our lives, from what we eat to how we live. Listen in for episodes about a hot new coastal commodity, a day in the life of a pollinator, how to live more sustainably through urban farming and so much more.2023 Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Georgia Award of Excellence for Podcasts.

  1. 11/10/2025

    From meal prep to leftovers: Expert food safety tips for your Thanksgiving dinner

    As the holidays approach and kitchens heat up, food safety becomes just as important as the meal itself. In this short episode, we revisit timeless advice from University of Georgia Cooperative Extension food safety specialist Carla Schwan, an assistant professor in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences, and Manpreet Singh, professor and former head of the Department of Food Science and Technology, now serving as an associate dean in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Together, they share practical tips to help you cook, serve and store food safely this season. From properly thawing your turkey to knowing when to finally pack up the leftovers, this episode will help you host with confidence and keep your guests healthy. Resources: Food Safety Tips for Preparing a Holiday Turkey (UGA Cooperative Extension Publication)FDA major food allergensFind your county UGA Cooperative Extension officeContent from CAES: Healthy holidays: Food safety tips for gifts and gatheringsServing up the facts: Food science and safety---- Produced by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera Edited by Jordan Powers and Emily Cabrera 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.

    9 min

  2. 10/15/2025

    Growing beyond the field: What is controlled environment agriculture?

    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 agricultureControlled environment agriculture poised to become a growth industryCAES partners with Agrify to grow vertical farming effortsCAES vertical farming research sheds light on producing medicinal compoundsGet 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.

    10 min

  3. 09/15/2025

    Six expert tips for a healthy septic system: What every homeowner should know

    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 siteA 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---- 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.

    11 min

  4. 06/12/2025

    Forecasting the storm: Expert tips for hurricane preparedness

    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 officeUGA Cooperative Extension Weather Emergency ResourcesUGA Weather NetworkUGA Climate BlogResident’s Handbook To Prepare for Natural Hazards in GeorgiaGeorgia Hurricane Evacuation ZonesUSDA 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---- 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.

    18 min

  5. 05/20/2025

    Composting 101: Everything you need to know to get started

    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 officeComposting 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 compostingQuick intro to vermicomposting (Instagram Reel)---- 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.

    23 min

  6. 04/30/2025

    Beat the bite: Expert tips for avoiding ticks and mosquitoes this summer

    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 heatThere are 63 species of mosquito in Georgia — and they are still bitingHelp prevent the spread of dengue feverSummertime is tick time in Georgia; time to get tick-smartDisease-bearing Asian longhorned tick found in north Georgia---- 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.

    17 min

  7. 01/27/2025

    10 Strategies for Better Time Management

    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 profileUGA Extension publications by Travis MountainUGA Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)Content from CAES: Free your mind and space from clutter in the new year----  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.

    14 min

  8. 12/16/2024

    Fields of innovation: The role of UGA’s research and education centers in Georgia agriculture

    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 CentersJ. Phil Campbell RECFinding UGA Cooperative Extension County officesOconee County Extension office Content from UGA/CAES: Photo and video from tour of J. Phil Campbell REC cotton harvestSuperintendent builds upon mission at research and education center (feature story)--- 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.

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

On Cultivating Curiosity, we get down and dirty with the experts on all the ways science and agriculture touch our lives, from what we eat to how we live. Listen in for episodes about a hot new coastal commodity, a day in the life of a pollinator, how to live more sustainably through urban farming and so much more.2023 Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Georgia Award of Excellence for Podcasts.

Information

  • Creator
    CAES Office of Marketing and Communications
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
  • Show Website
    Cultivating Curiosity