Cultivating Curiosity

UF/IFAS Extension - Taylor Clem

5.0 (4)
EDUCATION
UPDATED MONTHLY

Gazing dreamily into the fractured sunlight through the canopy. Plants are endlessly fascinating and inspiring, representing the intricate systems upon which life balances. This podcast was developed to share our fascination, curiosity, joy and knowledge with you. We look forward to cultivating your curiosity about the fascinating world of plants.

11/07/2025

Doing, Thinking, Feeling: The Creative Heart of Landscape Architecture

In this conversation, Dr. Taylor Clem and Dr. Ryan Hargrove explore the multifaceted discipline of landscape architecture, emphasizing its role in shaping relationships between people, places, and natural systems. They discuss the importance of creativity, empathy, and reflection in the design process, as well as the significance of plants and nature in creating meaningful environments. The dialogue encourages listeners to embrace their creative potential and consider how they can apply these principles in their own lives and communities.

41 min
10/03/2025

Connecting People, Plants, and Place at UNF: The Story of a Campus Botanical Garden

This month on Cultivating Curiosity, we explore how the University of North Florida is redefining what it means to be a campus. Horticulturist Rhonda Gracie shares how UNF became a botanical garden that inspires learning, supports research, and fosters community engagement. From award-winning gardens to volunteer-powered projects and even a “hort therapy” program tied to the largest collection of Crinum Lilies, this is a story of how nature can transform both people and place. Resources UNF Botanical Garden Webpage: https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/index.htmlUpcoming Events: https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/Events.html

42 min
09/05/2025

Seeds in Space!

In this episode of Cultivating Curiosity, host Taylor Clem speaks with Dr. Wagner Vendramé, a professor at the University of Florida, about his groundbreaking research on how plants adapt to microgravity in space. The conversation covers Dr. Vendramé's journey into space research, the impact of microgravity on plant cells, current experiments involving seeds sent to the International Space Station, and the role of cryopreservation in preserving plant material. The discussion also highlights the potential implications of this research for agriculture on Earth and the future of space-based plant science. Resources: Dr Wagner Vendrame Faculty PageAstraeus Space Institute

43 min
08/01/2025

Rooted in Opportunity: Growing a Career in the Green Industry

The green industry is more than just plants—it’s about people, purpose, and partnership. In this episode, Taylor Clem sits down with local leaders and entrepreneurs Andy Turner and Mike Zaffaroni to explore career opportunities within the green industry. From hands-on work and design to logistics, marketing, and business ownership, the industry offers diverse paths for anyone ready to grow. Andy and Mike share how collaboration, networking, and continued education—including certifications and involvement with organizations like FNGLA—can help newcomers thrive. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a new direction, this episode offers real-world advice and inspiration to help you take root and succeed in a field that’s shaping the future. Resources ⁠Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape AssociationLicensing & Certification within the Green Industry

34 min
07/04/2025

Tiki Dreams & Garden Scenes: Designing Your Florida-Friendly Escape

In this special "summer-sode," we're joined by Dr. Wayne Hobbs, Environmental Horticulture Agent with UF/IFAS Extension Clay County, to explore the whimsical world of escapism through landscape design. From turning his backyard into a tiki-themed retreat to mixing Florida-friendly mocktails with homegrown ingredients, Wayne shares how landscapes can transport us—emotionally, sensorially, and even spiritually. Tune in as we talk about creating immersive garden experiences, edible plants for your kitchen recipes, and how a lobster trap started Wayne's hobby. Whether you're a home gardener, designer, or just dreaming of your backyard escape, this episode offers inspiration to grow with intention and a little imagination. Cultivating Curiosity Webpage⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Resources ⁠The Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program Webpage⁠⁠The Nine Principles⁠⁠The Plant Selection App⁠⁠Find your county extension office!

28 min
06/06/2025

Inside Flip My Florida Yard w/ Chad Crawford

From sandy beaches to stormwater solutions, TV host Chad Crawford joins Cultivating Curiosity to talk about his hit series Flip My Florida Yard. A third-generation Floridian and creator of How to Do Florida, Chad shares how a single episode about landscaping evolved into a statewide movement for water conservation and environmental stewardship. In this heartfelt and humorous conversation, Chad opens up about his journey and why flipping yards is about more than plants. Hosts Alyssa Vinson and Taylor Clem dive into how the show uses entertainment to spark curiosity and environmental action, explore the mental health and cultural impacts of outdoor spaces, and discuss what’s new in Season 4, including a homeowner-led format focused on relatable, DIY landscape makeovers. Tune in to discover why Florida’s future may depend on a buffer zone—and how a yard show is quietly creating a state full of water-conscious, nature-connected citizens. Flip My Florida YardFFL Flip TipsDiscover Florida Channel

40 min
05/02/2025

Water You Doing with Your Landscape?

Spring has sprung, and the Florida landscape is buzzing! Join hosts Alyssa and Taylor as they chat with Michelle Atkinson—stormwater pond whisperer, irrigation detective, and all-around green industry guru. From algae explosions to irrigation implosions, Michelle dishes on how tiny tweaks in your yard can make big waves for Florida’s water. Whether you’re a pro landscaper or a curious plant lover, this episode is packed with tips, laughs, and surprising "aha!" moments. 🌱💧Resources Michelle's Publications: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/experts/a-atkinsonmMichelle's Blogs: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/manateeco/author/matkinson/

57 min
04/04/2025

Life in the Landscape: Exploring Ecological Relationships

Ever wondered how landscapes shape our world—and our impact on them? This episode dives into the fascinating world of landscape ecology, where science meets sustainability. We explore how patterns in nature influence biodiversity, climate resilience, and even urban planning. Whether you're a nature lover, an eco-conscious gardener, or just curious about the hidden connections in our environment, this conversation will change how you see the world around you. Tune in for expert insights, real-world applications, and a fresh perspective on the landscapes we live in! Resources Basil Iannone Faculty PageResidential Landscape Ecology LabPublication: Divergence in diversity-area relationships between lawn and non-lawn plants in residential landscapes

57 min

TRAILER

Cultivating Curiosity - An Introduction

Welcome to Cultivating Curiosity where two extension agents with UF/IFAS Extension explore the world of horticulture and quench your and our thirst for knowledge. Join us each month as we delve into fascinating topics in the world of plants and cultivate our curiosity. Want to learn more? Check out our webpage: https://sites.google.com/ufl.edu/cultivating-curiosity/home

S1, E1

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25 min

5

out of 5

4 Ratings

Gazing dreamily into the fractured sunlight through the canopy. Plants are endlessly fascinating and inspiring, representing the intricate systems upon which life balances. This podcast was developed to share our fascination, curiosity, joy and knowledge with you. We look forward to cultivating your curiosity about the fascinating world of plants.

Creator

UF/IFAS Extension - Taylor Clem
Years Active

2023 - 2025
Episodes

25
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© UF/IFAS Extension - Taylor Clem
Show Website

Cultivating Curiosity