A Fork in the Road

Grady Ranch Farms, a fourth-generation family business in Georgia, transitioned from a dairy to specializing in 100% grass-fed Angus beef. This Fork in the Road Podcast episode explores their journey, from adapting to market changes to perfecting their craft. Grady Ranch Farms prioritizes quality, flavor, and sustainability and by focusing on consumer education and building relationships, they have created a successful and thriving business, inspiring future generations of farmers.

On a special live episode of the Fork in the Road Podcast, host David Zelski is joined by a panel of experts from Coastal Georgia. Recorded live at the Tybee Post Theater on Tybee Island, this episode dives deep into the rich and vibrant maritime culture of the Georgia coast with four remarkable guests who have each played pivotal roles in preserving and promoting this unique environment.

Step into the enchanting world of Southern winemaking with host David Zelski as he uncorks the rich history and vibrant flavors of muscadine wine, Georgia's hidden gem. From the lush vineyards of Nashville to the bustling tasting room along I-75, discover the passion and dedication behind each bottle of muscadine wine. Meet the farmers, vintners, and storytellers who are preserving Georgia's agricultural heritage while crafting award-winning wines. Whether you're a wine connoisseur or an adventurous spirit, this podcast invites you to savor the taste of the South and raise a glass to the magic of Muscadine wine.

Hannah Thompson and her husband left the Atlanta city life behind for a charming Victorian house and a farm in Jackson, Georgia. Their journey led them to create Gold Lion Farm, producing organic bath and body care products with locally sourced ingredients. Listen as Hannah shares the story of how a gold man's ring sparked their connection to the land, and how her curiosity about ingredients led her to develop a business based on natural soaps and scrubs. You'll also hear about the other Georgia farms Gold Lion partners with to create their unique products and the importance they place on using organic ingredients and avoiding harmful chemicals. This episode is full of inspiration for those seeking a simpler, more connected life, and a reminder of the quality and care you can find in small-batch, local products. Plus, you'll meet the star of the farm: Poppy the Pig.

Dive into the heart of South Georgia's rich agricultural tradition as David Zelski takes you on a journey to Lake Park, Georgia, where Justin and Jared Corbett, the third generation of their family, carry on the legacy of bell pepper farming established by their grandfather in the 1970s. Discover how this family-owned operation has become one of the top producers of bell peppers, squash, cucumbers, eggplant, and cabbage on the East Coast, and how they've recently expanded into Georgia's emerging citrus market with their popular Besties satsumas. Learn about the challenges of farming in unpredictable weather conditions, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the innovative methods used to maintain quality control in both the picking and packing processes. Experience the Corbett brothers' dedication to their craft, love for their family heritage, and appreciation of the community they support. It's a tale of brotherly love, perseverance, and the bright future of Georgia-grown produce.

Join host David Zelski on an enlightening journey through the world of honey and beekeeping in this special episode of the Fork in the Road podcast. Visit the Blue Ridge Honey Company in the beautiful mountains of North Georgia to meet veteran beekeeper Bob Binnie, whose 40 years in the industry have given him unique insights into the production of honey and the health of bee populations. Discover how honey bees are vital to our food system, learn about the various types of honey and their benefits, and explore the intricate processes behind honey production. Get to know the UGA Honeybee Lab team and their critical research to combat the Varroa destructor, the tiny yet devastating mite threatening bees worldwide. From tasting local honey varieties to understanding the complexities of bee research, this episode offers a sweet and educational experience that will leave you buzzing for more.

Join David Zelski as he ventures to the Lawson Peach Shed in Morven, Georgia, a roadside haven where travelers and locals alike flock for the best homemade peach ice cream and other delightful peach-based treats. In this episode, discover the rich history behind this iconic destination, learn how the Lawson family adapted to challenging weather conditions, and hear about the unique offerings that make this shed a true peach paradise. From frozen peach lemonade to deep-fried peach tarts, find out why this charming stop along the Valdosta Highway has become a favorite pitstop for those traveling through South Georgia. Get ready to take a delicious journey with us and indulge in the sweet side of Georgia.

Delve into the vibrant world of urban agriculture. In this episode, David Zelski shines a spotlight on Gratitude Botanical Farm, an unconventional oasis nestled in the heart of Atlanta. Founded by childhood friends, this two-acre micro-farm is defying expectations and nourishing the community in more ways than one. Explore the challenges and triumphs of urban farming. Combating food deserts and preserving cultural heritage, Gratitude Botanical Farm is sowing the seeds of change in Atlanta's urban landscape.

Embark on a journey to the heart of Tifton, Georgia, where the sprawling expanse of Lewis Taylor Farms beckons with its promise of abundance and hard-earned success. Delve into the rich history and thriving present of one of the nation's largest privately owned farms. Lewis Taylor Farms is a testament to the enduring spirit of family farming and relentless determination. Discover the intricate dance between tradition and innovation as Lewis Taylor Farms harnesses cutting-edge technology and time-tested farming practices to cultivate a diverse array of crops. From bell peppers to cucumbers, squash to watermelons, each harvest represents not only a bounty of fresh produce but also a testament to the unwavering commitment of those who toil tirelessly to feed their communities and beyond.

Sweet Grass Dairy is the home of Georgia's cheesemaking pioneers. Meet Jessica and Jeremy Little, the dynamic duo behind the farm-to-table cheese revolution in Thomasville. From pasture to plate, discover the art and science of crafting award-winning cheeses rooted in sustainable farming practices and innovative recipes. In this episode, you can savor the flavors of Sweet Grass Dairy's artisanal cheeses while gaining insight into their commitment to quality, sustainability, and community.

Join us on a journey into the heart of Georgia's Department of Agriculture Seed Lab in Tifton. Delve into the meticulous process of testing every seed sold in Georgia, ensuring top-notch quality for farmers and consumers alike. From the rigorous inspections to the specialized testing procedures, discover how these small seeds play a vital role in shaping the state's billion-dollar agriculture industry. Learn about the dedicated team behind the scenes and gain insight into the intricate science that transforms seeds into the crops we rely on every day.

Explore the rich history and intricate process of peach farming in Georgia. Join host David Zelski as he delves into the roots of Pearson Farms, a fifth-generation peach and pecan farm in Fort Valley. From the days of recruiting young workers to the advanced logistics of today's peach industry, discover the fascinating stories etched on the walls of an old boarding house and the evolution of peach varieties at Pearson Farms. Gain insights into the art and science of picking and packing peaches, ensuring that the iconic Georgia peaches reach your hands ripe and ready. Tune in for a juicy episode that captures the essence of Georgia's Peach State legacy.

Embark on an enchanting journey where ancient traditions meet modern wellness and explore the fascinating world of Yaupon Holly, a forgotten American medicinal plant. Join tea farmer Lou Thomann as he shares the captivating history and versatile uses of Yaupon, from brewing herbal teas to crafting skincare products. Discover the sustainable practices at Yaupon Wellness Company's research farm and learn how this indigenous plant is making a comeback in the world of health and lifestyle. Uncover the wisdom of Native American tribes and indulge in the magic of Yaupon, where every leaf tells a story.

Explore Thompson Farms in Dixie, GA a hear about one family's generations-long commitment to sustainable pig farming. From overcoming market challenges to embracing whole hog butchery, the Thompsons showcase a unique blend of traditional southern practices and innovative approaches, ensuring every piece of meat leaving the farm is of the highest quality. From muddy pig spa days to the processing plant, this episode provides an intimate look at a family-driven operation that prioritizes the well-being of its animals.

Join host David Zelski as he travels the state to bring you the personal stories from Georgia’s farmers, fishermen, merchants, artisans, chefs, and others who help provide Georgia grown products to folks in the Peach State and beyond. You can also watch A Fork in the Road TV show on GPB TV and on demand at GPB.org as host David Zelski takes you across the state in a lively half hour program.

How did A Fork in the Road get started? Where did the idea come from? Does David Zelski record episodes all by himself? How far does David drive to record an episode of A Fork in the Road? Find the answers to these questions and more in this very special bonus episode of the Fork in the Road podcast.

Cookies are not just for kids. And 'cookies for adults' doesn't mean anything nefarious. Jonny Boy Cookies in Statesboro features Southern-inspired cookies that will tantalize your taste buds. From classic flavors like Chocolate Chip and Oatmeal Butterscotch to unique flavors like Chicken & Waffles and Banana Puddin'.

Yes, it is true that Georgia is not the country’s leading producer of peaches, that distinction goes to California. But, we do grow a lot of the delicious fruit here in the Peach State. On this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, David visits a farm in Musella, GA that has been growing peaches for 130 years.

The owners of 920 Cattle & Company in Millen, GA are the next generation of family farmers. Becca and Jarrod Creasy take a holistic approach to their meat and cattle farm. These young farmers are deeply involved in animal husbandry, land preservation, and the nutritional needs of both their livestock and their consumers. This is the future of family farming.

Homerville, Ga., is home to the Clinch County Honey Trail, where beekeeping has been a way of life and source of income for many generations. In this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, we'll talk with Ben Bruce, owner of Bruce's Nut-N-Honey Farm and Bruce's Honey Shack, to learn what the buzz is all about.