On this episode of Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash explores how Mississippi’s specialty crops and traditions help us step into the New Year with purpose and flavor. Joining the conversation are two distinguished guests: award-winning chef Nick Wallace of Nick Wallace Culinary and Dr. Elizabeth Canales of the Mississippi State University Extension Program.

Nick shares how his southern roots and French techniques come together to redefine Mississippi cuisine, while Elizabeth highlights her extension program’s mission to support farmers and specialty crop producers across the state.

In this episode, you’ll discover the cultural significance and health benefits of New Year’s staples like black-eyed peas, turnip greens, and carrots, Chef Nick’s creative tips for preparing these classics and boosting their flavors, and Dr. Elizabeth’s vision for empowering local farmers through education and sustainability in 2025.

From the fields to the table, hear inspiring stories of community impact, sustainable farming, and traditions that bring Mississippi’s specialty crops to life. Don’t miss this chance to start the year with fresh ideas and delicious inspiration!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash takes a closer look at the multigenerational farms and hardworking families that bring fresh, seasonal produce to Mississippi’s holiday tables. Joining the conversation are two incredible guests: Allen Eubanks of Eubanks Produce and Charlie’s U-Pick in Lucedale, and Rick Smith of Clinton’s Fresh Grown Farms.

Allen shares the inspiring history of Eubanks Produce, a family farm that began two generations ago and has grown into one of Mississippi’s largest operations,

supplying fresh produce to local grocery stores and offering agritourism through Charlie’s U-Pick. Meanwhile, Rick reflects on his journey from a diverse career to farming in Clinton, where he connects directly with the community through farmers markets and Fresh Grown Farms’ Farm Share Memberships.

In this episode, you’ll hear expert tips on growing holiday favorites like greens, carrots, and turnips, and learn how advanced technology and sustainable practices play a role in modern farming. Plus, our guests discuss the joy of hands-on farming, the importance of community relationships, and their favorite holiday traditions.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re celebrating National Poinsettia Day with a deep dive into one of the holiday season’s most iconic flowers. Host Claude Nash is joined by Teresa Gammel of Vesely’s Nursery in Sumrall, MS—a family-run nursery with a 46-year legacy in Mississippi’sPinebelt.

Together, they explore the rich history of Vesely’s Nursery, the role of poinsettias in holiday traditions, and how the nursery has become a major supplier for fundraisers, weddings, churches, and florists across the state. From care tips for keeping poinsettias vibrant throughout the season to creative ways to incorporate them into your decor, Teresa shares her expertise and love for these stunning plants.

Tune in to hear about the community-focused events at Vesely’s, insights into customer preferences, and what it takes to grow and sustain a thriving nursery. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just looking to add some holiday cheer to your home, this episode has something for everyone.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on Freshly Picked, we’re exploring the seed-to-table journey of Mississippi’s specialty crops and the importance of buying local. Our host, Claude Nash, is joined by two incredible guests: Jonathan McCraw, manager of the Mississippi Farmers Market in Jackson, MS, and Billy Hutto, owner of Hutto’s Home and Garden, a beloved Jackson establishment since 1968.

This discussion takes a closer look at the unique roles these local businesses play in connecting farmers with the community. From hosting educational events to offering specialty crop seeds and products, our guests share insights into their journeys and how they help Mississippians enjoy fresh, local produce.

Curious about how farmers' markets foster community? Want to know how local garden centers like Hutto’s set customers up for success? Tune in to this episode

and get inspired to support Mississippi’s specialty crops every step of the way!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on Freshly Picked, the Christmas spirit gets diverse as our wonderful guests talk about how to use Christmas trees in all sorts of ways. Our host Claude Nash is joined by our knock-out guests: Brittany and Aaron Anderson from Talson Farms in Laurel, MS, and Teri Wyly from La Terre Farms in Kiln, MS. 

This discussion follows the journey of both farms down the scenic route to owning their own farms. From 42-year-long legal careers to owning a lawn care business, their beginnings set them up for where they are now in interesting ways. Both guests dive deep into sharing the holiday cheer. 

Ready to hear about the ins and outs of the Christmas tree farm? Wondering how making floral arrangements can get you in the mood for the holiday season? Tune into this episode and you'll feel the cheer in droves.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Freshly Picked, Christmas tree specialists teach us everything there is to know about how to pick one out and where the business is headed. Our host Claude Nash has an evergreen conversation with our amazing guests: Adam and Ali Carnes of Carnes Farms and Mike Buchart, the president of the Southern Christmas Tree Association. 

Their conversation delves into the business of how to run a Christmas tree farm. And they bring out the importance of the personal family moments and memories around these amazing specialty crops. With business insider knowledge from Mike and first hand in the field experience from Adam and Ali, it makes for a multilayered discussion worth every second. 

Ready to know what it takes to grow a Christmas tree? Wondering whether you should have a real or artificial tree this year? Looking for tips on how to maintain your Christmas tree? Give this episode a listen to find the answers you've been looking for and so much more!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This time on Freshly Picked, our local Mississippi chefs take us on a journey of holiday cuisine. The holidays wouldn't be the holidays without scrumptious food and loved ones to enjoy it with. Our wonderful host Claude Nash has a food-filled conversation with two amazing guests: Nick Wallace, owner of Nick Wallace Culinary and voted best Chef of Mississippi in 2020, and Tyler Alford, owner of Eudora's Mississippi Brasserie.

These cuisine connoisseurs share trade secrets from their decades-long careers. The personal stories of family and home, the path of the business, the importance of connections on multiple levels, and more tasty topics meet with some holiday cheer. Their stories share the holiday spirit and some family recipes you won't want to miss. 

So, if you're looking for some insider info on how to make the best family dinner, you've found the right conversation. Bring your notepad and listen to what it means to be a Mississippi chef (and then bring your notes back to your kitchen). 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re talking about the journey of the Mississippi farmer. From family traditions or business ventures, our Mississippi farmers are the lifeblood of Mississippi. HostClaude Nash is joined by two special guests: Wendy Ellis, the owner of Red Bird Farms in Kosciusko, MS, and Michael May of Lazy Acres in Chunky.

During this conversation, our guests dive into their stories of maintaining their farms, how to pass on traditions to the next generation, and the importance of farmers and the consumer being connected in their community. Personal anecdotes and business insights from both farmers show how picking the right Christmas tree for your family can help ensure Mississippi specialty crops continue to shine.

If you're a farmer yourself or looking for a few tips on how to pick out the best Christmas tree this holiday season, give this episode a listen and discover what it means to be a part of a long tradition of Mississippi specialty crops.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.