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From Tech Sales to Oyster Trails: Henry Dubin's Career Leap to Cape Oyster Experiences.
In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin sits down with Henry Dubin, founder of Cape Oyster Experiences, to discuss his inspiring journey from a successful career in tech sales to starting an oyster tourism business on Cape Cod. Henry elaborates on his passion for oysters and shellfishing, his life's major transition during the pandemic, and the creation of unique oyster tours and tastings. He shares insights into the challenges and rewards of this dramatic change, including the entrepreneurial obstacles faced and the fulfillment found in sharing his love for oysters with others. Henry envisions Cape Cod becoming a premier oyster destination akin to Napa Valley's wine tourism, aiming to connect people with local oyster farms in a sustainable and engaging way. The episode is a captivating dive into the intersection of passion, nature, and business innovation.
00:00 Introduction to OYSTER-ology
00:21 Meet Henry: From Tech Sales to Oyster Entrepreneur
01:23 The Birth of Cape Oyster Experiences
04:40 Challenges and Rewards of Oyster Farming
08:06 Oyster Tours and Experiences
27:31 Future Visions: The Napa of Oysters
29:59 Seasonal Operations and Unique Offerings
32:13 Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
35:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Links:
Website: Cape Oyster Experiences (https://CapeoysterExperiences.com/)
Instagram Site: @capeoysterexperiences
Henry's direct email: [email protected]
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Show Notes:
Exploring the Bounty of the Bay with Goose Point Oysters' Kathleen NisbetIn this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin talks to Kathleen Nisbet-Moncy, the Chief Operating Officer and family member owner of Goose Point Oyster Company, about the rich history and innovative practices of their oyster farming business. Kathleen discusses the origins of Goose Point Oyster Co., founded by her parents in the 1970s, and the challenges and solutions they've developed over the years, particularly focusing on sustainable practices and combating climate change. They explore the unique environment of Willapa Bay, the methods of oyster cultivation and harvesting, and the importance of community and ecosystem stewardship. Kathleen also explains the innovative hyperbaric high-pressure processing technology that allows Goose Point to offer 'shuckless oysters' and the future expansions and product lines the company is exploring. The conversation highlights the family-oriented, community-focused approach that drives Goose Point Oyster and its commitment to quality and sustainability.
00:00 Introduction to Oyster Habitat Engineering00:22 Meet Kathleen: COO of Goose Point Oyster
01:06 History of Goose Point Oyster
03:43 Growing Up in Bay Center
07:28 Kathleen's Journey in Aquaculture
09:41 Farming Practices at Goose Point Oyster
10:46 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming
18:09 Harvesting Techniques and Environmental Impact
20:04 The Shuckless Oyster Innovation
25:46 Cold Juice Pasteurization and Safe Raw Oysters
26:15 Challenges of Mail Order Shipping for Oysters
27:11 Differences Between East and West Coast Oysters
29:13 Diploids vs. Triploids: Year-Round Harvesting
29:57 Efficient Oyster Shucking Techniques
32:04 Unique Practices in Willapa Bay Oyster Farming
38:44 Burrowing Shrimp: The Biggest Challenge
43:56 Innovations and Future Plans at Goose Point Oyster Farm
48:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Links:
Goose Point Oyster Co. (https://goosepoint.com/)Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin interviews Andy DePaola, an innovative oysterman, scientist, consultant, and inventor located on Mobile Bay, Alabama. Andy explains how his unique Shellevator technology revolutionizes oyster farming by enabling multi-layered, three-dimensional oyster cultivation, significantly increasing yield per acre. Andy describes his four farming locations and the challenges of oyster farming in the dynamic salinity conditions of Mobile Bay and the Mississippi Sound. He then describes the Shellevator, how it works and how it outperforms traditional floating gear in terms of efficiency, labor savings, and resilience to storm damage. Andy also explains his ideas to mass-producing Shellevators for large-scale oyster growing to make it more profitable, to sequester carbon and to feed the planet. But he doesn’t stop there; he also describes a parallel invention, Reefers, an oyster-infused, pliable and rigid material designed to quickly protect and restore coastal shoreline, reduce wave energy. and enhancing rapid carbon sequestration and large-scale restoration. With a background with the FDA and years of hands-on experience, Andy aims to transform oyster farming, making it more efficient, scalable, and impactful on global food security and environmental health. This episode unwinds to reveal how BIG Andy’s thinking is to improve the planet and highlights some of his innovative contributions to oyster farming and their potential global impact.
00:00 Introduction to Oyster Farming Innovations00:29 Meet Andy: The Multifaceted Oysterman
00:44 Geographical Challenges and Oyster Farming
02:04 The Impact of Salinity and Environmental Factors
04:01 Scaling Up: Multiple Farm Locations
06:19 The Shellevator: Revolutionizing Oyster Farming
22:39 The Future of Oyster Farming and Carbon Sequestration
42:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Andy DePaola's Bio:
Andy DePaola grew up on the North Carolina coast pier fishing with his dad, Depe; and honored by naming farm Depe Oysters. Andy studied food science, microbiology and marine biology earning BS and MS degrees at North Carolina State University and a Ph.D at the University of Florida. He spent his entire 37-year career in public service working at FDA in Dauphin Island, Alabama as a research microbiologist. He worked extensively with microbial oyster safety and was Agency’s subject matter expert on vibrios, Lead Seafood Microbiologists and National Vibrio Policy Coordinator from 2013 until he retired in 2015. Andy established Depe Oyster Farm, Angelo DePaola Consulting and filed the Shellevator invention patent in 2016 along with breaking his neck in a body surfing accident. Experimentation remains his passion and Shellevators have provided endless opportunities to test new ideas and innovate.Show Links:
The Shellevator
(https://www.shellevator.com/)Depe’s Oyster, Andy DiPaola’s oyster farm
(https://www.oystersalabama.com/depe-s-oysters)Article with images about the Shellevator
(https://www.scenic98coastal.com/posts/andy-depaola-depe-oysters-coden-alabama)Oyster’s Alabama
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In this lively episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox welcomes Dana Hines and Beth Simonds, co-owners and oyster farmers at Stonington Farms Shellfish in Mystic, Connecticut. The conversation delves into their profoundly strong friendship, their unique roles in the business, and their collective commitment to producing high-quality oysters. The episode is filled with humorous and touching moments, covering topics from the many challenges of oyster farming to the deep bond between Dana and Beth. They share anecdotes about their beginnings, the ups and downs of managing the farm, their personal quirks, and the emotional and financial challenges they face. Our raucous discussion is filled with laughter, interruptions , and unwavering support of the two women and how they manage to balance their friendship with their business. This episode is sort of a continuation of Episode 8, with Beth and her other partner and spouse, Kris, where they discuss the business of Stonington Farms in an equally entertaining and moving conversation. So if you haven't heard that episode yet, you should go listen to it now and then come back here for this episode, so it all makes sense.
NOTE: This episode contains some explicit language or topics, so you may want to make sure the kiddies and HR are not listening in...00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
00:22 Meet the Guests: Dana Hines and Beth Simonds
00:31 The Story of Stonington Farm Shellfish
01:11 A Deep Dive into Friendship and Partnership
02:36 Challenges and Hilarious Moments in Oyster Farming
05:03 Dana's Background and Journey
09:43 Beth's Personal Struggles and Support System
20:56 The Decision to Buy the Farm
24:59 Roles and Responsibilities at the Farm
27:54 Meet the Team: Board Members and Titles
28:23 Marketing Strategies: Lessons from the Grateful Dead
29:01 Oyster Tasting: First Impressions and Reactions
29:19 The Beauty and Anatomy of Oysters
31:37 Getting Muddy: The Fun and Challenges of Oyster Farming
34:17 Winter Woes: Staying Warm and Dry
35:21 The Joy of Sorting and Perfectionism
36:41 Public Engagement: Raw Bars and Shucking Classes
40:23 Challenges and Setbacks: Weather and Sewage Issues
42:23 Balancing Business and Personal Life
46:32 Pride and Regret: Memorable Moments in Oyster Farming
49:03 Concluding Thoughts: Friendship and Business
Links:
https://vimeo.com/946310418?&login=true
Video: Rising Tide To Table. An outstanding video highlighting the work of Stonington Farms Shellfish and Chef Emily Mingrone
https://www.foodwalkers.com/foodwalkers/2024/1/21/stonington-farms-shellfish-shucking-it-forward-with-love-amp-oysters. A post with numerous photos by OYSTER-ology host, Kevin Cox, about Stonington Farms Shellfish on Foodwalkers.com
https://www.stoningtonfarmsshellfish.org/ Stonington Farms Shellfish website.Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology Kevin explores the intricate world of Olympia oysters with guest Emily Wilder. Emily shares her unique journey from being a pescatarian on Whidbey Island in Puget Sound to becoming a shellfish farming advocate and discovering her true passion to be a small business entrepreneur. She discusses her experiences working on oyster farms, her realization of the importance of sustainable seafood marketing and how she established Salinity Seafood & More to bridge the gap between consumers, artisans and high-quality local products. The conversation describes the distinct qualities of Olympia oysters, their historical significance, sustainable farming practices and Emily's plans for her future. Tune in to hear Emily soothingly weave together the multifaceted world of oysters, environmental stewardship and the importance of supporting local businesses.
00:00 Introduction to Olympia Oysters
00:39 Welcome to Oysterology
01:04 Emily Wilder's Journey
04:03 Discovering Shellfish Farming
07:03 The Evergreen State College Shellfish Club
08:35 Marketing and Business School
10:59 Working with Island Creek Oysters
13:20 Returning to the West Coast
16:34 The Unique Olympia Oyster
34:38 Salinity Seafood and More
45:55 Future Plans and Conclusion
LINKS:
Salinity Seafood & More website
(https://eatsalinity.com/)
Salinity Seafood & More Instagram site
(https://www.instagram.com/eatsalinity/)
Emily's Geoduckgal Instagram site
(https://www.instagram.com/geoduckgal/)
Skagit Shellfish
(https://skagitshellfish.com/)
Swinomish Shellfish Company
(https://swinomishshellfishcompany.com/)
The Living Shore: Rediscovering a Lost World, by Rowan Jacobsen. Bloomsbury USA; First Edition (September 1, 2009)
(https://www.amazon.com/Living-Shore-Rediscovering-Lost-World/dp/1596916842)
The Evergreen State College, Olympia Washington
(https://www.evergreen.edu/)Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox peeks behind the badge at the fascinating experiences of Amy Croteau, the Senior Natural Resources Officer and Shellfish Constable for the town of Barnstable, Massachusetts. Amy shares captivating stories from her 18 years in the role, from patrolling local waters and managing wildlife encounters to handling unpredictable challenges and local culture. She talks about the unexpected sight of a whale in a front yard, safeguarding Cape Cod's shellfish through rigorous regulation, and balancing the community's needs with environmental protection. Amy's narrative provides a unique insider's look at the daily life and duties of a shellfish constable, highlighting her commitment to the marine environment and her hometown community.
00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Whale Encounter00:34 Welcome to Oysterology
01:09 Meet Amy Croteau: Shellfish Constable
03:41 The Role and Responsibilities of a Shellfish Constable
05:15 Challenges and Changes in Shellfish Enforcement
10:43 Environmental Changes and Wildlife Management
14:29 Becoming a Shellfish Constable
22:47 Daily Duties and Enforcement Tactics
27:41 Cultural Challenges in Shellfishing
28:14 Enforcement and Education
29:26 Frequent Offenders and Permit Suspensions
30:57 Aquaculture and Wild Harvest
34:16 Shellfish Propagation and Regulations
40:16 Balancing Community Needs
46:14 Wildlife Encounters and Challenges
49:49 Future Plans and Reflections
51:16 Conclusion and Farewell
Links:
Town of Barnstable, MA website: (https://www.townofbarnstable.us/)
Shellfish Regs of Barnstable: (https://www.townofbarnstable.us/Departments/shellfishing/Shellfish-Management.asp)
Shark-Tracker app: Tracks sharks and other sea creatures. (https://www.ocearch.org/tracker/) Also available as an app.
Edible Magazine story on Amy, et al.: Cape Cod's Female Shellfish Constables
By Andrea Pyenson / Photography By Cori Egan | April 19, 2018
(https://ediblecapecod.ediblecommunities.com/things-do/cape-cods-female-shellfish-constables)Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kris and Beth Simonds share their heartfelt journey into oyster farming and the work they do at Stonington Farms Shellfish in Mystic, Connecticut. Despite having a picturesque farm at Murphy Point, their journey wasn't smooth. After the sudden loss of his wife and mother to his son Jake, Kris gradually found solace and purpose in oyster farming. With Jake's passionate involvement, Kris transformed their home into an oyster farm. Beth, who had endured years trapped in an abusive marriage, found new love and direction with Kris, eventually joining him and Jake full-time on the farm and full-time in life. Together, they face the challenges of running an oyster farm while being deeply intertwined in their work and personal lives, striving to deliver top-quality products. They also emphasize their commitment to community and environmental stewardship, despite facing financial and operational hurdles. Their story is a testament to human resilience, passion, and the importance of finding a calling that merges work and family life. They even talk about Beth's beloved ducks, which add character to their idyllic farm setting. Third partner in the farm, Dana Hines, is also part of the "crazy mess" that is Stonington Farms, and solidifies the bond of life, love and oysters. That lively conversation can be heard in Episode 9 after you enjoy this one. Oyster farming with Kris and Beth isn’t just a job; it’s an inspiring journey worth savoring as much as their succulent oysters.
NOTE: This episode contains some explicit language or topics, so you may want to make sure the kiddies and HR are not listening in...Shownotes:
00:00 Introduction: The Unseen Essentials00:30 Meet Kris and Beth: The Oysterology Guests
00:49 The Idyllic Mystic Cove
01:20 Kris's Journey: From Loss to Oyster Farming
02:26 Jake's Passion for the Water
06:57 Beth's Story: From Teacher to Oyster Farmer
11:44 Building a Life and Business Together
20:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Oyster Farming
24:07 Innovative Techniques and Environmental Impact
32:24 Oyster Varieties and Market Categories
33:42 Challenges in Oyster Farming
34:27 Connecticut's Oyster Legislation
37:14 The Co-op Controversy
42:42 Community Outreach and Education
45:18 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations
55:29 Oyster Farming Passion and Philosophy
Links:
https://vimeo.com/946310418?&login=true
Video: Rising Tide To Table. An outstanding video highlighting the work of Stonington Farms Shellfish and Chef Emily Mingrone
https://www.foodwalkers.com/foodwalkers/2024/1/21/stonington-farms-shellfish-shucking-it-forward-with-love-amp-oysters A post with numerous photos by OYSTER-ology host, Kevin Cox, about Stonington Farms Shellfish on Foodwalkers.com
https://www.stoningtonfarmsshellfish.org/ Stonington Farms Shellfish website.Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox interviews Virginia Schaffer, founder of Lady Oyster, Maine's first oyster-centric food tour company. Virginia shares her transition from a corporate career in luxury travel to pursuing her passion for oysters through extensive research, writing, and establishing Lady Oyster. The business offers eco-friendly oyster-related experiences, including farm tours, tastings and retreats. Virginia discusses her diverse background, her approach to gastronomic tourism and the cultural and historical significance of oysters. She also touches on the challenges of building her entrepreneurial venture, the importance of sustainable practices, and her future goals for Lady Oyster. It's a dynamic conversation which may just make you want to quit your job and rush up to Maine!
Links:
https://www.theladyoyster.com/. The Lady Oyster website.Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox interviews Nicolette Mariano, owner of Treasure Coast Shellfish in Sebastian, Florida. Nicolette shares her journey from volunteering at a destroyed shellfish hatchery to managing her own sustainable oyster farm. They discuss topics like the challenges of aqua farming, environmental impacts and industry regulations, the stark realities of oyster farming, weather, oyster mortality, equipment and so much more. Despite starting Treasure Coast Shellfish alone at the onset of COVID by diving underwater to tend to her oysters, Nicolette has developed a thriving business known for its high-quality oysters and community-focused practices. This episode gives clear-eyed insight into starting a tiny farm and growing into something big and highly respected, with killer-good oysters.
Links:
Treasure Coast Shellfish website. https://www.treasurecoastshellfish.com/Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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Dot Leonard: The Icon of Oyster Restoration
In this very special episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox sits down with Dorothy ”Dot” Leonard, a towering icon and pioneer in the world of oyster restoration and marine conservation. Dot has dedicated over five decades to oyster restoration and rejuvenating coastal and marine ecosystems globally. Starting with her lifelong love of the marine world, Dot shares insights into the evolution of shellfish restoration, the decline of populations due to pollution and innovative strategies in fisheries management. The episode touches on her leadership roles at various government agencies and highlights the complexities of balancing commercial interests, aquaculture, and restoration. She discusses her journey in rejuvenating coastal and marine ecosystems globally, including significant contributions through NOAA, National Marine Fisheries as well as her own Ocean Equities organization, and her spearheading of the prestigious International Conference on Shellfish Restoration. This lively episode reveals how Dot’s tireless efforts have led to the development of sustainable marine management practices and the global recognition of oysters' vital ecological role and the risks facing it. It also emphasizes the importance of face-to-face collaboration, community involvement, and educating younger generations in marine science. Dot’s legacy, influence and contributions to oyster and shellfish restoration cannot be understated - she has done everything, knows everyone and has been everywhere in this watery oyster world. And she’s here to talk all about it.
00:00 Environmental Concerns: Then and Now
00:31 Introducing Dorothy Leonard: The Queen of Oyster Restoration
04:40 Dorothy's Early Life and Passion for Marine Environments
07:46 From Political Science to Marine Conservation
10:09 Challenges and Triumphs in Coastal Management
15:36 The Birth of Shellfish Restoration
19:09 Oyster Restoration in Maryland
27:04 Innovative Approaches to Oyster Restoration
33:03 Oyster Gardening in Maryland
34:26 Personal Experiences with Oyster Gardening
35:58 Challenges and Coexistence in Shellfish Restoration
38:33 Aquaculture vs. Traditional Watermen
41:07 NIMBY and Aquaculture Challenges
43:10 International Shellfish Restoration Efforts
56:13 The Role of Education in Shellfish Restoration
01:00:45 Environmental Legislation and Coastal Management
01:07:24 Future of Aquaculture and Shellfish Restoration
01:08:49 Final Thoughts and Legacy
Links:
The International Conference on Shellfish Restoration - ICSR2024 (https://www.icsr2024.com/)Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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Unveiling the Mysteries of Oyster Origins with Dr. Melissa Delatorre
In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox is joined by Dr. Melissa DellaTore, CEO of Pacific Hybreed, to delve into the very front end of oyster development and breeding. This is where it all begins, with the development of oyster "seed" for oyster hatcheries and farms all over the world. Dr. DellaTorre highlights the complexities and innovations in oyster breeding and aquaculture today and the many challenges that it presents. In this episode, she shares her insights on genetic testing, selective breeding, and the development of resilient shellfish, including the significance of triploid oysters and biosecurity practices. The conversation expands to her unique career path, including her academic achievements, athletic pursuits, and dedication to oyster research, particularly against diseases like Pacific Oyster Mortality Syndrome (POMS). They also explore the challenges and rewards of oyster farming in diverse environments like Hawaii and the Pacific Northwest, as well as environmental threats, the nutritional needs of oysters, and potential aquaculture expansions. The episode combines scientific depth with personal anecdotes, painting a comprehensive picture of the current state and future of oyster breeding and development.
00:00 Introduction to OYSTER-ology
01:02 Meet Dr. Melissa Dellatore
03:03 Pacific Hybreed: Breeding Stronger Shellfish
04:00 Understanding Hybreed Vigor
04:54 Challenges in Oyster Breeding
07:48 Melissa's Journey into Aquaculture
13:11 Oyster Life Cycle and Breeding Techniques
15:48 Triploids and Biosecurity
20:01 Warm Water vs. Cold Water Oysters
26:17 Oyster Diseases and Resilience
29:54 Future of Sustainable Aquaculture
30:57 Global Oyster Species and Pacific Oyster Dominance
31:57 Challenges of Crossbreeding and Biocontamination
32:55 Oyster Aquaculture and Restoration Efforts
33:37 Triploids and Ocean Acidification
34:47 Threats to Oysters and Survival Rates
36:22 Pacific Hybreed's Facilities and Operations
37:26 Algae Production and Hatchery Practices
41:49 Shipping and Expansion Plans
48:21 Water Quality Issues and Solutions
55:53 Team Dynamics and Daily Operations
58:41 Conclusion and Future ProspectsPlease be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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Youthful Exuberance and Oyster Restoration: Betsy Stewart's Grassroots Journey
In this episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox interviews 23-year-old Betsy Stewart, a passionate and self-driven marine scientist, about her dedication to oyster restoration. Betsy's journey from a childhood fascination with marine life to spearheading the Zip Project in Florida's Indian River Lagoon is detailed with enthusiasm and laughter. Betsy discusses her innovative, plastic-free designs for oyster growth, her determination despite challenges, and the strong support from her family and friends. Her stories are filled with joy and humor as she highlights the crucial role of oysters in environmental sustainability and her hands-on approach to conservation. She shares her educational path, love for marine life, and the pivotal influences that shaped her mission. Delving into the technical and ecological aspects, the episode covers challenges like funding, dealing with predators, and selecting optimal locations for oyster growth. Betsy highlights the vital role oysters play in filtering water, reducing erosion, and supporting biodiversity. Listeners get insights into the project's environmental benefits, community impact, and potential for growth This episode underscores the synergy between personal passion and grassroots activism in driving significant environmental change. Betsy describes her dreams of expanding her project, securing some funding and making a lasting impact on marine conservation, always punctuating her narrative with a refreshing, youthful energy and positive outlook.
00:00 Introduction to Oysterology
00:26 Meet Betsy Stewart: The Oyster Enthusiast
02:46 The Zip Project: A Grassroots Initiative
05:11 Betsy's Journey into Marine Science
09:12 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Restoration
23:38 The Future of the Zip Project
27:43 Support from Family and Friends
28:48 Navigating Social Media Challenges
30:49 Why Oysters?
32:18 Keystone Species and Environmental Impact
35:53 Oyster Restoration Projects
39:02 Building a Business and Community
44:36 Data Collection and Challenges
52:06 Future Aspirations and Expansion
54:22 Conclusion and Future Plans
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Take a Deep Dive into Oyster nurseries and husbandry: Techniques, Genetics, and Personal Journeys
This 'OYSTER-ology' episode features an engaging conversation with Jesse Honiker of Hama Hama Oyster Company, a premier oyster farm in Washington's Hood Canal and Puget Sound. Jessie runs Hama Hama's Nursery of millions of baby oysters, raising them until big and strong enough to go out into the open water to grow into outstanding oysters for consumption. Our discussion provides an in-depth exploration of an oyster nursery and farming practices and innovations. Jesse discusses oyster husbandry using a floating upweller system (FLUPSY), highlighting the processes from nursery to bay, genetic advancements, and the importance of shell size and shape maintenance. The episode delves into the challenges and rewards of cultivating different strains of oysters, including the genetically resilient Miyagi and Midori oysters, and the historically significant Olympia oyster. Jesse shares her transition from crop farming to oyster farming, discussing sustainable food production, the intricacies of managing vast numbers of oysters, and the role of environmental factors in farming practices. Jesse, an expert with a background in both land and marine agriculture, shares experiences from the Hama Hama, shedding light on nursery management, developmental stages, and the physical demands of the job. The discussion also delves into the genetic development of oysters, exploring diploids and triploids, and the challenges posed by climate change. Personal anecdotes and insights into Jesse's diverse background and some of her more unusual experiences working at Hama Hama enrich the narrative, emphasizing the community's integral role in the ongoing sustainability of aquaculture and revealing the therapeutic benefits of farming, the journey from crop farming to oyster farming, and teaching farming to incarcerated women. This episode offers a rich blend of technical knowledge, historical context, and personal experiences, highlighting Jesse's passion and dedication behind the critical baby oyster/nursery phase of sustainable oyster farming.
00:00 Introduction to Oyster Complexity
00:11 Meet Jesse Honaker: Oyster Expert
01:09 Oyster Nursery Management
02:14 Challenges and Adventures in Oyster Farming
03:01 Daily Operations at Hama Hama
05:35 Oyster Nursery Details
07:52 FLUPSY and Advanced Sorting Techniques
16:28 Oyster Growth and Seeding Methods
23:58 The Importance of Olympia Oysters
28:58 Unique Challenges with Olympia Oysters
31:54 Navigating the Tides and Safety
33:43 Cold Waters and Waders: Making Good Choices
34:24 Genetic Development of Oysters: Diploids and Triploids
40:21 Exploring DNA and RNA in Oyster Genetics
42:59 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming
49:02 A Journey from Land Farming to Oyster Farming
58:57 Sustainable Protein Sources: Oysters and Beyond
01:01:51 The Emotional Connection to Oyster Farming
01:06:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future Prospects
Links:
Hama Hama Oyster CompanyPlease be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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This INAUGURAL episode features an in-depth discussion between host Kevin Cox and award-winning author and world-renowned oyster expert Rowan Jacobsen. Together they explore various aspects of oysters, including their role in cuisine, culture, and history. The conversation covers a broad spectrum of subjects, including the basics of oysters, the sensory art of eating oysters and the best practices for tasting and enjoying them. They also talk about the romantic and slightly erotic nuances of oyster consumption and the concept of 'merroir'—the environmental influences on oyster flavors. Rowan describes the distinct differences between regional oyster farming techniques, especially in the Gulf of Mexico and the Pacific Northwest, the evolution and diversity of oysters in different regions and the role of shellfish in human evolution. The discussion also delves into oyster restoration efforts and highlights Rowan's adventures in hunting down lesser-known oyster species like the Olympia oyster. Enjoy this rich tapestry of interconnected themes with this very special guest.
00:00 Introduction to Oysterology
00:29 Meet the Host and Podcast Overview
01:45 Introducing Rowan Jacobson
05:30 Rowan's Journey with Oysters
07:56 Understanding Oysters: Biology and Ecology
11:49 Oyster Restoration and Aquaculture
21:32 Gulf Oysters and Their Reputation
27:44 Oyster Varieties and Merroir
42:13 The Art of Shucking Oysters
43:18 Oyster Influencers and the Master Oyster Guild
44:00 Oyster Shucking Techniques Around the World
45:12 Favorite Oyster Recipes and Cooking Tips
46:13 The Controversy of Barbecued Oysters
47:20 Innovative Oyster Pairings with Alcohol
49:45 The Creamy Oyster Debate
55:50 Oysters and Human Evolution
01:01:38 The Environmental Impact of Oyster and Fish Farming
01:04:30 The Legacy of Wild Oysters in America
01:05:48 The Unique Flavor of Olympia Oysters
01:10:00 Debunking Oyster Myths
01:10:56 Exploring New Topics and Future Projects
01:16:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Links:
https://www.rowanjacobsen.com/ Rowan's website - Check it out!
https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Chocolate-Across-Americas-Search/dp/1639733574 Amazon.com link to Wild Chocolate - Across the Americas in Search of Cacao's Soul, by Rowan Jacobsen (2024 Bloomsbury Publishing)
https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/16940.Rowan_Jacobsen. Complete list of books by Rowan Jacobsen on Good Reads.Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
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Introducing OYSTER-ology: Dive into the World of Oysters
In this introductory non-episode of OYSTER-ology, host Kevin Cox announces the launch of this new podcast dedicated to all things oysters and aquaculture. OYSTER-ology is a virtual gathering place for oyster aficionados including farmers, shuckers, scientists, writers, and environmental activists to share their knowledge and experiences. The podcast series will feature interviews with an array of industry experts who will cover a wide range of topics related to oysters, from cultivation to consumption and pretty much any other aspect of oysters and aquaculture. Episodes will cover topics ranging from shellfish ecology and restoration to the cultural and culinary significance of oysters. Kevin will highlight people involved in uncommon businesses relating to oysters, including tourism, clothing, technology cooking and writing, just to mention a few. The series will also uncover historical perspectives, regional farming practices, and the technological advances in oyster aquaculture. There will be episodes that explore the intricacies of eating oysters, tasting tips and shucking techniques, as well as the evolving oyster culture in various parts of the world. Beyond just oysters, Kevin will also present other important and emerging aspects of aquaculture, including the growing demand for seaweed. Whether examining the environmental benefits of oyster farming or demystifying common misconceptions about oysters and aquaculture, this series is a must-listen for all oyster farmers, aquaculturists, enthusiasts and newcomers.
Please be sure to Follow OYSTER-ology on your favorite podcast platform, and tell others about it. Every mention of it helps more people find the podcast!
