OYSTER-ology

Kevin Cox
  • 5.0 (16)
  • NATURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

OYSTER-ology is a podcast about all things Oysters, Aquaculture and everything from spat to shuck.  We dive into this watery world with those who know best – the people doing it everyday – and through lively, unfiltered conversations we learn their stories, challenges and opportunities. In each episode we’ll cover different aspects of oyster farming, restoration, ecology and, of course, eating. For those in the business it’s a chance to learn what others in today’s oyster industry are doing and make new contacts. And for the millions of eaters who love to slurp oysters or want to feel like experts at the raw bar -- this is the podcast for you! 

  1. Episode 41: From Sunlight to Sea: Transforming Oyster Farming with Solar Oysters

    1D AGO

    Episode 41: From Sunlight to Sea: Transforming Oyster Farming with Solar Oysters

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! On this episode of OYSTER-ology, I sit down with Steve Patterson of Solar Oysters about the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPs), a solar-powered floating platform that automates oyster farming by harnessing the power of the sun. Our discussion covers the logic of using solar power, automation, and remote monitoring to modernize oyster aquaculture and boost production in a much smaller footprint than traditional surface-spread farms. Steve frames the system as a scalable technology platform for both restoration and half-shell market oysters, aimed at cutting labor burdens, improving growing performance, and helping the U.S. reduce its reliance on imported seafood. We talk about the company’s origins, successful prototype testing in Baltimore Harbor, grower interest from the U.S. and abroad, and the next steps: finding farm partners to complete open-water testing, validating the economics, and bringing the product to market. This episode offers a glimpse into the future of renewable-energy oyster farming – and as Steve shows us – the future is NOW! 00:00 America’s Seafood Deficit & Why Aquaculture Tech Matters 00:23 Welcome to OYSTER-ology: Can Sunlight Power Oyster Farming? 02:30 Meet Steve Patterson & the Solar Oysters Vision 03:08 Inside the Solar Oysters Production System (SOPS) 05:33 Origin Story: From Floating Solar Concept to Automating Oyster Grow-Out 08:19 How It Works in Practice: Capacity, Footprint & Using the Water Column 10:30 Depth Requirements, Dockside Nursery Use & Labor Savings 12:41 Remote Monitoring, Final Testing Plans & Building SOPS 2.0 15:24 Siting, Permitting & Storm Strategy: Where (and How) to Deploy It 19:07 Power Talk: How Much Energy Do the Panels Make? + Future Wind Ideas 22:49 Results from Baltimore Harbor:  29:36 Challenges, Economics, Competition & What’s Next (Plus Other Shellfish) 33:42 Wrap-Up: Rethinking Oyster Farming Geometry & Call to Action Links: https://www.solaroysters.com/ The Fish Site article about Solar Oysters  Credits: Guest: Steve Pattison, Solar Oysters Host: Kevin Cox Digital Deckhand: Chet Jipty If you enjoyed this episode, please FOLLOW, RATE, and SHARE the show. It helps other oyster lovers discover our growing, global oyster community. Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    35 min

  2. FEB 10

    Episode 40: Shattering the Gulf Oyster Myth: The Oyster Bros and the Rise of Texas Mariculture

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin sits down with David Aparicio, co-founder of The Oyster Bros, one of the pioneering forces behind modern, off-bottom oyster aquaculture in Texas. Raised on shrimp boats that ranged from Brownsville to the Florida Keys, David never imagined oysters would become his future—until Texas legalized oyster mariculture and a brand-new frontier opened in the Gulf. What follows is a candid, deeply grounded conversation about legacy and reinvention: shrimping as hunting, oyster farming as cultivation; life at sea versus life on the farm; hurricanes, anchors, and hard lessons learned the long way. David shares what it really means to start an industry where none existed before—navigating permitting, skepticism, market education, and the physical realities of farming oysters in warm, wind-driven Gulf waters. This is a story about patience, family, process, and believing in something before the market knows it wants it. 00:00 Introduction to Shrimping and Oyster Farming 00:34 Meet the Oyster Bros 01:07 Transition from Shrimping to Oyster Farming 02:30 Challenges and Learning in Oyster Farming 04:30 Daily Operations and Techniques 06:31 Navigating Regulations and Permits 07:47 Building and Expanding the Farm 13:24 Overcoming Natural Disasters 18:28 Marketing and Consumer Education 27:38 Future Vision and Family Legacy 32:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: The Oyster Bros website:  (https://www.theoysterbros.com/) Guest: David Aparicio, The Oyster BrosHost: Kevin CoxDigital Deckhand: Chet JiptyPlease be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    36 min
  3. Episode 39: An Oyster Is Not Just an Oyster: Beth Walton & Oyster South

    JAN 29

    Episode 39: An Oyster Is Not Just an Oyster: Beth Walton & Oyster South

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox welcomes Beth Walton, Executive Director of Oyster South to dive into the mission and operations of Oyster South, which unites farmers, chefs, scientists, students, and the public in support of the oyster industry. Beth talks about her personal journey from growing up in southeastern Massachusetts to leading the organization. They discuss the unique community-building efforts, including the industry's annual symposium and the Landlocked fundraiser event, and highlight the importance of storytelling and technology in the oyster farming sector. Walton also touches on the challenges faced by southern oyster farmers and the importance of collaboration and education in overcoming them. Together, Kevin and Beth explore how Oyster South convenes researchers, farmers, regulators, chefs, extension agents, and community members to build a resilient oyster future rooted in collaboration rather than competition. It’s a conversation about oysters as ecosystems, oysters as culture, and oysters as a platform for shared progress. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Beth Walton 00:30 What is Oyster South? 02:56 Beth Walton's Journey with Oysters 05:30 The Birth of Oyster South 07:33 Growth and Impact of Oyster South 08:40 Connecting the Oyster Community 21:53 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming 33:49 Future of Oyster South and Advice for New Farmers 36:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: Oyster South website: https://www.oystersouth.orgOyster South on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@oystersouth1427Shellbound video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCufl37pMDw&t=1sKimball House, Decatur GA: https://www.kimball-house.com/Sea Grant: https://seagrant.noaa.gov/Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    40 min
  4. Episode 38: Hard Oysters & Heavy Anchors: real-world advice on oyster gear with Ketcham Supply.

    JAN 20

    Episode 38: Hard Oysters & Heavy Anchors: real-world advice on oyster gear with Ketcham Supply.

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! In this engaging episode of OYSTER-ology, my guests, Heather Ketcham and Myron Horzesky, discuss their journey at Ketcham Supply, a key player in the oyster farming industry. Heather shares her transition from biotech to taking over the family business, founded by her father Bob Ketcham, while Myron recounts his long history with the company starting as a teenager. They discuss the innovations and challenges they've faced, including the move from paper to digital records, the creation of bespoke oyster farming equipment, and tackling issues like bird contamination on oyster cages. Our conversation also explores the close-knit relationships they've developed with farmers and the ways in which they collaboratively innovate to improve efficiency and productivity in oyster farming. They emphasize the importance of understanding site-specific needs and starting small to ensure sustainable growth. We discuss innovation, sustainability, regional challenges, and how feedback from growers drives design and refinement. It’s a story about collaboration between factory and farm, and how the unseen hardware of aquaculture shapes the shellfish we taste. 00:00 Introduction to OYSTER-ology 00:35 Meet Heather Ketcham and Myron Horzesky 03:24 Heather's Journey from Biotech to Aquaculture 04:54 Myron's Early Days at Ketcham Supply 06:53 The Evolution of Ketcham Supply 10:53 Craftsmanship and Quality at Ketcham 12:52 Building Relationships with Farmers 17:05 Challenges and Successes in Oyster Farming 20:17 Gender Equality in Oyster Farming 20:34 Advice for Established Farmers 22:23 Innovations in Bird Deterrence 26:02 Challenges in Oyster Farming 31:46 Labor Issues in the Industry 34:49 Storefront and Product Range 37:09 Shoreline Restoration Efforts 38:01 Conclusion and Key Takeaways Links: Ketcham Supply Co.Heather Ketcham – ECSGA ProfileGuest: Heather Ketcham & Myron Horzesky Host: Kevin Cox Digital Deckhand: Chet Jipty Special thanks to Karen Hudson of VIMS for arranging recording studio space. Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    40 min
  5. Episode 37: Move Over Henry Ford; Aaron Pannell revolutionizes oyster farming

    JAN 6

    Episode 37: Move Over Henry Ford; Aaron Pannell revolutionizes oyster farming

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! In this episode of OYSTER-ology,  Kevin talks to Aaron Pinnell, the innovative mind behind FlipFarm, his semi-automated oyster farming system which is changing the way oysters are grown. Aaron shares his journey from sheep and dairy farming to aquaculture, detailing how a serendipitous encounter led him to oyster farming. He discusses the creation of Marlboro Oysters with his wife, Debbie Pannell, and their development of a revolutionary oyster farming system that enhances efficiency and productivity. Aaron explains the unique features of FlipFarm, including the  specialized machinery and how it is transforming the oyster industry globally. The conversation highlights the challenges and successes of implementing the system, its impact on the oyster quality, and the future potential for scalability and international expansion. 00:00 Introduction to Flip Farm 00:20 Meet Aaron Pinnell: The Man Behind Marlboro Oysters 01:35 Aaron's Journey from Sheep to Oysters 06:38 The Birth of Marlboro Oysters 12:14 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming 16:09 The Eureka Moment: Birth of Flip Farm 20:07 Developing the Flip Farm System 24:08 Understanding Flip Farm Line Lengths and Spacing 25:53 Innovative Loading and Unloading Efficiencies 28:08 Sorting and Grading Oysters on the Water 29:19 Revolutionizing Oyster Farming with Flip Farm 31:31 Adapting to Challenges and Continuous Improvement 32:50 Global Expansion and Scalability 33:10 Handling Storms and Site Considerations 34:22 Flip Farm's Versatility in Different Environments 35:59 The Journey of Developing Flip Farm 39:00 Team Dynamics and Growth 41:10 Work-Life Balance and Retention 41:49 Investment and Adoption of Flip Farm System 42:59 Scalability and Contracting Opportunities 45:14 Quality and Consistency of Oysters 48:30 Global Adoption and Future Prospects 50:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: https://www.flipfarm.co.nz/ (FlipFarm website) https://cdn.slp.nz/flipfarmtour/ First FlipFarm farm tour videos (a must-see) https://www.marlboroughoysters.co.nz/ (Marlborough Oysters website) Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    54 min
  6. Episode 36: Big Light Bad: Photo Stylist Adrienne Anderson’s Oyster Life

    12/23/2025

    Episode 36: Big Light Bad: Photo Stylist Adrienne Anderson’s Oyster Life

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! In this episode of OYSTER-ology, photo stylist Adrienne Anderson takes us inside the creative chaos behind Rowan Jacobsen’s The Essential Oyster, where she and photographer David Milosh spent a year transforming oysters into expressive portraits — tilting shells by fractions of an inch, battling over artistic style and learning to see each oyster as its own unique character. Adrienne explains how flavor, place and mood guide her styling choices, how visual stereotypes shape the way oysters are perceived, and why tension and limits are essential to making honest, compelling images. Her path — from washing dishes in New York to collaborating with Rowan Jacobsen to running the retail operations at one of the Pacific Northwests's most beloved oyster farms — is full of unlikely decisions, chance encounters, and relationships that quietly redirected the course of a life. And through it all, she leaves us with one unforgettable truth about photography and maybe life itself. 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Meet Adrian Anderson: From Janitor to Food Stylist 01:34 Journey to Photography and Food Styling 03:17 The New York Times Cooking Studio 04:48 The Oyster Connection: Meeting Rowan Jacobson 11:44 The Essential Oyster Project 15:16 The Art of Oyster Photography 21:28 The Influence of Oyster Photography 23:33 The Evolution of Gulf Oyster Farming 24:35 Creating Dynamic Photo Books 26:27 Transitioning Careers and New Projects 27:15 Life at Hama Hama 30:47 Oyster South and Community Involvement 33:30 Quickfire Questions on Photography 37:27 Memorable Oyster Experiences 40:19 Future Plans and Reflections Links: Adrienne's website: https://www.adrienne-anderson.com/The Essential Oyster (Amazon link) – Rowan Jacobsen’s book featuring Adrienne’s styling and studio workHama Hama Oysters – Adrienne’s current home base on Hood CanalOyster South – Organization supporting southern oyster farmers and their annual symposiumRowan Jacobsen – Writer of The Essential Oyster and Apples of Uncommon CharacterBillion Oyster Project – New York Harbor restoration nonprofitHolding Back the Tide – Film that deeply moved Adrienne and reshaped her oyster pathIf you enjoyed this episode, please FOLLOW, RATE, and SHARE the show. I Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    45 min
  7. Episode 35: Inside the Mind of the Oyster Master - A Conversation with Julie Qiu

    12/09/2025

    Episode 35: Inside the Mind of the Oyster Master - A Conversation with Julie Qiu

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! Julie Qiu is a globally recognized oyster educator, writer, strategist, and industry advocate. She is the creator of the influential website In A Half Shell, a founding partner of Oyster Master Guild, and a longtime champion of elevating oyster appreciation and oyster service around the world. Kevin Cox sits down with Julie to unpack OMG’s mission to elevate oyster culture through education and certification. Julie shares her journey from brand strategist to renowned oyster sommelier, discusses the concept of merroir, the creation of her In A Half Shell website, and reveals how OMG aims to make oysters accessible to all. With insights into tasting techniques, global oyster trends, and the four-level certification process, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about oysters and seafood. 00:00 Introduction to Oyster Textures and Podcast Welcome 00:37 Diverse Perceptions of Oysters 00:54 Introducing Julie Qiu: The Oyster Sommelier 01:30 Julie's Journey and Philosophy 16:31 The Concept of Merroir 21:29 Tasting and Appreciating Oysters 31:14 Introduction to Oyster Master Guild 33:28 The Four Levels of Oyster Master Guild 35:31 Oyster Service Excellence and Certification 37:20 The Importance of Storytelling in Oyster Culture 40:27 Global Reach and Community of Oyster Master Guild 41:57 Oyster Sommelier and Accessibility 45:20 Gen Z and the Future of Oysters 48:00 The Evolution of Oyster Dining 49:57 Quickfire Questions with Julie Qiu 56:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links: Oyster Master Guild (https://www.oystermasterguild.com) In A Half Shell  (https://www.instagram.com/inahalfshellist/) Julie on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/inahalfshell) Credits Guest: Julie QiuHost: Kevin CoxDigital Deckhand: Chet JiptyProduction of: OYSTER-ology Podcast Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    59 min
  8. Episode 34: Shuck Hard, Wander Far: Rutvik Patel and The Wandering Shuckers Co.

    11/25/2025

    Episode 34: Shuck Hard, Wander Far: Rutvik Patel and The Wandering Shuckers Co.

    Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here! From the raw bars of New York to festivals across the country, Rutvik Patel has built a life around the half shell and built The Wandering Shuckers Co. A kid from India – and not an oyster in sight – Rutvik shares how, thrust into the US, he stumbled into shucking, found community through oysters, and turned his passion into a profession. With his “superhuman” partner Mahnaz Damania keeping the ship steady, Rutvik travels coast to coast bringing oysters—and their stories—to pop-ups, private events and national competitions. He explains the art of shucking, the significance of storytelling in serving great shellfish. Our conversation reflects on the camaraderie within the oyster community,  craft, and how oysters have a way of connecting people everywhere. 00:00 Intro 00:23 Meet Rutvik Patel: The Wandering Shucker 00:55 From India to America: Rutvik's Early Life 02:37 Adapting to Life in the US 05:06 Entering the Food Industry 06:20 Discovering a Passion for Oysters 08:41 The Art and Community of Shucking 13:30 Competing in Shucking Competitions 16:42 The Perfect Shuck: Techniques and Challenges 17:58 Competition Oysters: Selection and Strategy 18:26 The Art of Not Flipping Oysters 19:46 The Wandering Shuckers: Origin Story 20:34 Business Model and Events 20:59 Catering vs. Popups: A Shucker's Perspective 22:11 Innovative Techniques for Grilled Oysters 23:42 Experimenting with Oyster Additives 28:29 The Importance of Oyster Stories 31:01 Memorable Shucking Experiences 35:12 Future Plans and Acknowledgements Links: The Wandering Shuckers Co. (https://www.thewanderingshuckers.co)Mahnaz Damania — Global Indian Article (https://globalindian.com/es/youth/story/global-indian-exclusive/bollywood-to-broadway-actress-mahnaz-damanias-journey-to-life-of-pi/)The Seafood Dude — Daniel Wangler (Texas) (https://www.theseafooddude.co/about)Fallen Pine Oyster Company (Snow Hill, Maryland) (https://www.fallenpineoyster.com)Jolie Rogers Raw Bar (Wiscasset, Maine) (https://lcnme.com/currentnews/wiscasset-welcomes-jolie-rogers-raw-bar-to-village/)Hama Hama Oysters (https://hamahamaoysters.com)Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar (New Orleans)Credits: Guest: Rutvik Patel, The Wandering Shuckers Co Host: Kevin Cox, Creator & Host of OYSTER-ology Digital Deckhand: Chet Gipty Photos courtesy of The Wandering Shuckers Co. Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!

    40 min
See All (41)

5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

OYSTER-ology is a podcast about all things Oysters, Aquaculture and everything from spat to shuck.  We dive into this watery world with those who know best – the people doing it everyday – and through lively, unfiltered conversations we learn their stories, challenges and opportunities. In each episode we’ll cover different aspects of oyster farming, restoration, ecology and, of course, eating. For those in the business it’s a chance to learn what others in today’s oyster industry are doing and make new contacts. And for the millions of eaters who love to slurp oysters or want to feel like experts at the raw bar -- this is the podcast for you! 

Information

  • Creator
    Kevin Cox
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    41
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 OYSTER-ology
  • Show Website
    OYSTER-ology