Cultivating Curiosity

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.

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

1. UNF Botanical Garden Webpage: https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/index.html
2. Upcoming Events: https://www.unf.edu/botanical-garden/Events.html

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 Page
• Astraeus Space Institute

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 Association
• Licensing & Certification within the Green Industry

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 Webpage⁠
• ⁠The Nine Principles⁠
• ⁠The Plant Selection App⁠
• ⁠Find your county extension office!

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 Yard
• FFL Flip Tips
• Discover Florida Channel

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-atkinsonm
• Michelle's Blogs: https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/manateeco/author/matkinson/

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 Page
• Residential Landscape Ecology Lab
• Publication: Divergence in diversity-area relationships between lawn and non-lawn plants in residential landscapes

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 of their work on the community but also how the experience has deeply enriched their own lives.

Resources

• The Florida Master Gardener Volunteer Webpage
• Find Your Master Gardener Volunteer Office

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 is the unsung hero of Florida’s wild world.

Resources:

Intro/Outro Music:

Track Title: Nature and Nurture

Composers: Steven Thomason [PRS] 100%

Publishers: Freshworx Music Limited [PRS] 100%

Album: Forest Folk

Catalog Number: FRX020

Track Number: FRX020-1

Labels: Freshworx

German label code: LC 78182

ISRC: UK-QUJ-19-02001