Cultivating Curiosity

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 cryopreservat...

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, ne...

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 abo...

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 flip...

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, ...

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 yo...

Nurturing the growth and reach of horticulture across Florida are the dedicated Master Gardener Volunteers. Through their unwavering commitment to community education, school gardens, demonstration projects, and beyond, these volunteers leave a profound mark on the state. In this inspiring episode of Cultivating Curiosity, we dive into the heartfelt, untold stories of these volunteers—celebrating not only the transformative impact ...

Ever wonder what's smoldering beneath Florida's pines? It's not just the heat—it's the crucial role of prescribed burns in keeping our ecosystems thriving! From wildfires to controlled burns, Florida’s landscapes are shaped by fire more than you might think. Join Alyssa and Taylor as they ignite a fiery conversation with Dr. Raelene Crandall, a fire ecology expert from the University of Florida, to explore why fire ...

Everything starts with seeds—whether it’s the food we eat, the air we breathe, the way ecosystems thrive, or the simple joy of seeing blooming flowers. Seeds are life! Join Alyssa and Taylor as they dive into the fascinating world of seeds and seed conservation with Dr. Hector Pérez. By the end of this lively conversation, you might just find yourself becoming a proud seed geek too!

Resources:

• Dr. Hector Pérez Faculty Page
• ...

Palms are distinctly different from other trees we choose to plant in our landscapes. They are emblematic and iconic in Florida and have unique care requirements. Join us as we dive into the world of palms with Dr. Mica McMillan, Assistant Professor at the Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center. We cover the basics of what makes a palm, a palm, and discuss various challenges and opportunities for palms in landscapes. 

⁠⁠Cul...

Farming with nature - that is the foundation of Agroecology, "a field of study motivated to understand ecological, evolutionary, and socioeconomic principles and use them in an improvement process that sustains food production, conserves resources, and maintains social equality." Join us this month as Alyssa and Taylor discuss agroecology with Dr. Zachary Brym, an Associate Professor in Agroecology. His research and extension progr...

Florida is a tapestry of diverse environments and built landscapes, all intricately woven together by our most vital resource: water. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program represents our statewide best management practices for landscaping, aimed at protecting both water quality and quantity. Join Alyssa Vinson and Taylor Clem as they discuss the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program with the new director and our friend, Claire Le...

What do plants, squashing things, and Indiana Jones have in common? Plant Breeding, of course!

For centuries, humans have utilized forms of plant breeding to help promote desirable traits of food crops and ornamental plants. In the present day, plant breeders can do so much more. In this month's podcast, we are joined by Dr Brooks Parrish, a recent Ph.D. graduate from the University of Florida's Environmental Horticulture Department...

In urban or urbanizing areas, many variables influence stormwater, watershed hydrology, irrigation, and landscape maintenance. Understanding the connections between these variables is seemingly cumbersome. Luckily, UF/IFAS Extension's Dr Eban Bean, an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Urban Water Resources Engineering, helps us "go with the flow" through his innovative solutions in addressing our state&#...

Lichen - an enigmatic species present in all corners of the globe. Its unique relationship, a combination of fungi and cyanobacteria/algae, mistifies many. Often blamed as a disease impacting plants in our landscapes, it is rather, a vital component to our landscapes, including many insects and birds. Join us for this bonus episode, as a follow-up to Dr Matt Smith's episode, as we explore all things Lichen with Laurel Kaminisky...

Fungi - one of the least understood, yet most captivating kingdoms of life. Luckily, Alyssa and Taylor are friends with Dr. Matt Smith - one of our favorite mycologists!

Dr. Matthew Smith is UF Plant Pathology's resident mushroom specialist. Since 2012, he has served over 500 agents and individuals working as a consultant on fungi-related issues. Dr. Smith seeks to address fungal biology topics in Florida and serve as an agen...

Have you ever wondered about the relationship between people and plants? Ethnobotany is the study of understanding these different relationships. Join us as we speak with Dr. Rick Stepp, a professor with the Center for Latin American Studies at the University of Florida's Department of Anthropology, as we explore the historical interactions, both globally and locally, that people have with plants and the world around them.

⁠Cul...

Trees in urban landscapes are faced with daunting challenges; poor soil, extreme heat, no water, motorized vehicles etc. Throw hurricanes into the mix and there are many concerns about how trees fare in our communities. Our conversation today with Dr. Ryan Klein focuses on teasing out the realities and perceptions of risk related to our landscape trees.

⁠Cultivating Curiosity Webpage⁠

Resources:

• Dr. Ryan Klein's Webpage

• Dr. Klein...