A Fork in the Road

In this episode, you will discover one couple's journey from suburban roots to the rugged rhythms of farm life. Motivated by a passion for healthy, homegrown food, Steve and Joy have built a diversified farming operation with a unique twist — a thriving pickle business.     

Join David Zelski as he heads to Dahlonega for a flavorful journey through Georgia's craft beverage scene. Discover the ancient art of mead-making at Etowah Meadery and savor a variety of honey-based brews. Then, explore the brewery's selection of expertly crafted beers made with locally sourced ingredients. From traditional to innovative, this episode offers a unique tasting experience that celeb...

In this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, we delve into Georgia's pecan industry by visiting EKC Farms in Metter. Here we meet Mattie and Curtis Collins, a dedicated couple who have transformed their family farm into a thriving pecan orchard. Discover the challenges and rewards of running a pecan farm, from planting and harvesting to cracking and selling their delicious nuts. Learn about th...

On this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, we take a flavorful journey to Alma, the "Blueberry Capital of Georgia," to meet the Blueberry Queen, Anne Wildes. Anne lives and breathes blueberries. She owns the Blueberry Barn, teaches children the health benefits of blueberries, and advocates for the importance of blueberries to Georgia's economy. Anne's journey has taken her from a h...

In this episode of the Fork in the Road podcast, host David Zelski visits Longleaf Ridge Farms in Camilla, Georgia, to talk with sixth-generation farmer Casey Cox. They explore the challenges and rewards of managing a diverse farming operation, including peanuts, sweet corn, and timber. Casey shares insights into sustainable farming practices, water conservation, and crop rotation, while highlight...

Let's go to Richland, Ga., home of the Richland Distilling Company, where single-estate rum is crafted from field to bottle. Learn how this small-town distillery, one of the few in the world to grow its own sugar cane and distill on-site, is setting new standards in American spirits. The distillery has gained international recognition, including admiration from former President Jimmy Carter for it...

Picture a beehive in your mind. Did you picture the rooftop of one of Atlanta's iconic downtown hotels? On this Fork in the Road podcast episode, you'll learn about the bees that live on top of the Hyatt Regency Atlanta and how the culinary team incorporates local Georgia-grown ingredients into the dishes featured in the hotel's four unique dining experiences. 

In this episode, we explore the history and legacy of Mercier Orchards, a family-run farm nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover how four generations of the Mercier family have cultivated this beloved orchard, growing it into a thriving business that blends tradition with innovation. From their famous apples to a full farm-to-table experience, learn what makes Mercier Orchards a staple in t...

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 hav...

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.        

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 agric...

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 h...

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...

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...

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...

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 pr...

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 dan...

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 c...

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 indu...

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...

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...

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 p...

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.