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.

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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/

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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/)

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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 Prospects

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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 Jessie'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 Company

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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.

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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.

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