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In this episode of OYSTER-ology, I sit down with Erik Schlagenhauf, Vice President of SEAPA North America, about the nuts and bolts of oyster farming innovation. We discuss SEAPA's innovative gear systems that enhance efficiency, sustainability and product quality in oyster farming. We dive into how small design choices - like baskets with true doors - can save thousands of low-value moves and eliminate mountains of wasteful zip ties. Erik shares his journey from stone carving to Hog Island Oyster Company to his current role at SEAPA, where he helps farmers around the world adapt to technological advancements, offshore expansion, shifting politics, and environmental pressures. Our conversation spans oyster farming in Japan, Portugal, Australia, and beyond, touching on different growing techniques, copycat gear, the ethics of original R&D, and the promise of sensors, drones and AI in shaping the future of aquaculture. From grow-out bags to oysters around the world, Erik shows how design and innovation shapes not just the farmer’s work, but the oysters on your plate.

00:00 Introduction: The Plight of Oyster Farmers

00:34 Welcome to OYSTER-ology Podcast

02:11 Meet Erik Schlagenhauf:

03:44 The Start of an Oyster Career

06:41 Learning the Ropes at Hog Island

07:48 Innovative Oyster Farming Methods

11:20 Transition to SEAPA: Embracing Efficiency

14:08 SEAPA Baskets: Design and Durability

23:33 Global Oyster Farming Techniques

28:24 Future of Oyster Aquaculture

37:33 Conclusion: Innovations Shaping Oyster Farming

Links:

SEAPA website: http://seapausa.com

Hog Island Oyster Company (https://hogislandoysters.com)

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The confluence of Oysters and Cheese, with Justin Trosclair of Lady Nellie Oyster Farm

In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin sits down with Justin Trosclair from Lady Nelly Oyster Farm to explore his fascinating journey from cheese-making to oyster farming. Justin shares his unconventional entry into the world of oysters and how a chance encounter with some outstanding Grand Isle oysters ignited his passion. He discusses the intricacies of running a small-scale oyster farm and his innovative solutions to farming hurdles. They also discuss the nuances of terroir and merroir, and how they impact the flavors of cheese and oysters respectively.Throughout the conversation, the parallels between cheese making and oyster farming are highlighted, revealing how both crafts rely on natural processes to achieve extraordinary flavors.

00:00 Introduction: Cheese and Oysters

00:18 Guest Introduction: Justin Trosclair

00:37 Justin's Background in Food Industry

01:41 The Spark: Discovering Oysters

02:33 Transition to Oyster Farming

04:04 Life as an Oyster Farmer

06:44 Challenges and Innovations in Oyster Farming

11:30 Farm Setup and Operations

18:39 Oyster Quality and Market

23:19 Health and Safety Concerns

26:23 Balancing the Risks of Eating Oysters

28:33 Event Catering and Jazz Fest Success

29:10 Challenges of Offering Farm Tours

30:17 The New Guarde of Oyster Farming

30:46 From Cheese to Oysters: A Unique Journey

31:29 The Art and Science of Cheese Making

37:10 Cheese and Oysters: A Surprising Pairing

44:35 Biggest Challenges and Triumphs in Oyster Farming

47:41 Future Goals and Reflections

Links:

Lady Nellie Oyster Farm’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladynellieoysterfarm/

Grand Isle , LA Information website: https://www.explorelouisiana.com/cities/grand-isle

New Orleans JazzFest 2026: https://www.nojazzfest.com/

Little Moon Oysters website: https://www.littlemoonoysters.com/

The Wandering Shuckers website: https://www.thewanderingshuckers.co/

Little Debbie Snack Cakes website: https://www.littledebbie.com/

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James Crimp of Alaska Sea Grant - Oyster farming partnerships at their best

In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kevin interviews James Crimp, the Shellfish Mariculture Specialist at Alaska Sea Grant. James provides an in-depth look into his role, focusing on research and education to support the oyster industry in Alaska. He shares insights from his background, growing up in a commercial fishing family in Anchorage, to his experience in Maine, working with lobster and kelp farming. James discusses the challenges and opportunities in Alaska's oyster farming, including the logistics of remote farming, market development, and dealing with harmful algal blooms. He highlights the potential for growth in the oyster industry and the importance of community support and sustainable practices. The conversation also touches on the unique characteristics of Alaskan oysters and future plans for expanding the industry. Throughout the conversation James expresses an infectious youthful optimism, a deep passion for his job and his belief in the bright future of the Alaskan oyster industry.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:13 Role and Responsibilities at Alaska Sea Grant

01:15 Personal Background and Journey

03:13 Experience in Maine and Transition to Alaska

06:53 Current Work and Projects in Alaska

09:48 Challenges and Opportunities in Alaska's Oyster Farming

19:16 Travel and Logistics in Alaska

21:05 State of the Oyster Industry in Alaska

29:53 Future Prospects and Conclusion

Links:

Alaska Sea Grant website (https://alaskaseagrant.org/)

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