In this episode, hosts Kris and Tara sit down with Katie Bevilacqua of Golden Ridge Groves, an innovative agrotourism farm market located in Bartow, Fl. Golden Ridge Groves is home to a first-of-its-kind CUPS (Citrus Under Protective Screen) system, offering a truly unique U-Pick grapefruit experience—alongside U-Pick sunflowers, strawberries, and more seasonal Florida-grown favorites. Katie breaks down how CUPS technology works and why it matters, especially in the fight against HLB (citrus greening). This episode highlights how innovation, education, and resilience are shaping the future of Florida citrus and specialty crops. A major theme of the conversation is Golden Ridge Groves’ mission: connecting the public to where their food comes from and showcasing the diversity of what’s grown right here in Florida—proving that agriculture continues to adapt, innovate, and thrive. In this episode, you’ll learn: What makes the CUPS citrus system a game-changer for Florida growers How protected citrus production helps combat HLB / citrus greening Why agrotourism plays a key role in agricultural education How Golden Ridge Groves is inviting the public back onto the farm Plan Your Visit Golden Ridge Groves is open Tuesday–Saturday and welcomes the public to experience Florida agriculture firsthand. Learn more: https://goldenridgegroves.com/ Resilient. Innovative. Florida-grown. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of agriculture.

In this episode of the Modern Farming Podcast, we sit down with Mike McCracken—farmer, educator, and former Florida FFA State Officer—to explore how agriculture education is evolving alongside a rapidly changing industry. With roots in both production agriculture and the classroom, Mike brings a unique perspective on what it takes to prepare students for modern agricultural careers.

Mike shares how technology has transformed agriculture, from diversified farm operations to innovative growing systems. As the owner and operator of McCracken Farms, he has worked across citrus, blueberries, hydroponic U-pick towers, exotic birds, and more—demonstrating how adaptability and innovation are essential for long-term success in farming.

A central focus of the conversation is the growing disconnect between students and where their food comes from. Mike discusses the shift from rural to urban living and how fewer families have direct ties to farms, making school-based agriculture programs more critical than ever. He explains the importance of elective agriculture courses in both middle and high school and how early exposure helps students discover interests, develop skills, and explore career pathways.

Drawing on his experience as an agriculture teacher in Polk and Highlands Counties—and as someone who helped establish a new FFA chapter in Polk County—Mike highlights how FFA drives student buy-in through hands-on learning, leadership development, and real-world applications. The episode also tackles the trade school versus college conversation, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all path to success in agriculture.

Listeners will also hear Mike’s thoughts on innovative growing practices, including backyard gardens and nontraditional farming systems, and how these approaches can change the “farming mindset” for today’s FFA students. He underscores the value of industry certifications in middle school, experiential learning, and getting students’ hands dirty—teaching problem-solving, focus, stress management, and resilience along the way.

Throughout the episode, Mike reminds us that small opportunities can have life-changing impacts. Whether it’s introducing a new growing method, offering a certification, or simply giving students the chance to try something new, those moments build knowledge, confidence, and open doors for the future.

In this inspiring episode, Kris and Tara sit down with Perry Rollins, director of Swan Lake Camp in Melrose, Florida, to explore how outdoor education, agriculture, and service come together to transform lives.

Perry shares the rich history of Swan Lake Camp and its mission to get every child outdoors—embracing their motto: “No Child Left Inside.” From hands-on environmental learning to outdoor skills and farm-based education, the camp creates powerful opportunities for students to reconnect with nature and understand the world around them.

The conversation also highlights the camp’s deeply impactful programs serving foster care children and veterans, offering safe spaces for healing, confidence-building, and community.

Throughout the episode, Perry emphasizes why agricultural education matters for everyone—because, as he says, “we all need to eat.” By helping young people and adults connect with where their food comes from, Swan Lake Camp uses agriculture as a vehicle for understanding stewardship, sustainability, and God’s purpose for our lives.

In This Episode:

--The origins and legacy of Swan Lake Camp

--How outdoor education builds resilience, confidence, and curiosity

--Programs that serve foster care youth and support veterans

--Why agricultural literacy is essential for every community

--The spiritual connection between food, creation, and purpose

--How Swan Lake Camp partners with families, schools, and organizations to impact lives

Tune in for an uplifting conversation about the power of the outdoors, the importance of understanding our food systems, and the role agriculture plays in shaping disciplined, purpose-driven youth.