By now kudzu is so tied to the Tennessee landscape that it was voted one of the top ten plants to shape the state. But isn't it considered invasive? This episode dives into the history of how this emerald green plant came to blanket hillsides in Tennessee and why it has the status of "invasive." And, we talk to Keith Bridges, a farmer in Knoxville who has teamed up with a small army of leaf-munching goats to tackle the growing problem ..read more

Welcome to a new season of the Tennessee Magic Moments podcast. Hosts Lauren Henry and Samantha Jean take a look at how agriculture has weathered the COVID-19 pandemic. Interviews include a chat with an agriculture economist, a supply chain industry expert, and a first person account from a farmer. Listen to hear where we are headed for the future ..read more

Holly Jones with the UT Gardens gets us ready for spring gardening in this month's podcast. In this episode, Holly plants cool weather greens from seed and walks us through plant care from seed to stalk. Whether you are a first-time gardener or seasoned horticulturist, we hope you'll find a gardening takeaway ..read more

He's a tenth generation farmer, dairyman, veterinarian, entrepreneur, and now the 38th Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Agriculture. Samantha Jean sits down with Dr. Charlie Hatcher and asks him why he wanted to be Commissioner of Agriculture, and what his priorities will be while in office ..read more

Did you know that Americans throw out more than twenty-five percent more trash during the Holidays? Christmas may be the time for presents and decorations, but it doesn't all have to end up in a trash bag December 26. We teamed up with some creative ladies at the UT Institute of Agriculture to find unique ways to give the Holidays that extra sparkle without the waste. Listen to find gift ideas, sustainable decorations, creative gift wrapping, and so much more ..read more

In honor of Veterans Day, we are learning about one group that many are calling the future of agriculture. That is our veteran farmers. These are individuals who have served America on the battlefield and are continuing to serve on a different type of field. Meet two farmers from East Tennessee who are rolling up their sleeves to feed their community ..read more

This month we are hearing from several students at the UT Institute of Agriculture about their experiences pursuing degrees and future careers in the broad realm of agriculture. Hear about bat research in the jungles of Belize, and how one student is working to make sure our food is safe from pathogens. Whether they are studying equine reproduction in Florida or teaching fishing to 4-H campers, these students are representing UT well as the next generation of ag leaders ..read more

Did you know half of Tennessee is covered by forest land? The care and protection of that land is overseen by Tennessee’s State Forester, David Arnold. Arnold was just recently appointed to the position by Governor Bill Haslam and he has some new goals for one of the state’s most important resources. Also, wildfire season is just a few months away. Meet the state’s new wildland fire chief, Wade Waters ..read more

Tune in to this month's TN Magic Moments podcast for a sit-down chat with Charlotte Tolley, Executive director and leader of the Market Square Farmers' Market in downtown Knoxville. Join us, as we highlight the progressive and preservative efforts of the landmark, rural market that just so happen to make its way downtown. Listen now.       ..read more

Do you have a business idea? Are you trying to expand an existing business? If it involves agriculture you may want to give the Tennessee Department of Agriculture a call. Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Jai Templeton talks with Samantha Jean on the many services the state offers, including an exciting, fresh, new focus on agriculture business ..read more