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With back to school in full swing, Michele and Nicole talk with Katie Pratt and Amanda Radke on the latest podcast episode.  While each of these women wears many hats (farmers, mothers, and pillars of their respective communities), they both work to increase literacy about food, farming, ranching, and nutrition in the classroom.

As misinformation can spread early in life, Pratt keeps an open door (literally - as the host of many tours of her farm) and creates a safe space for elementary and junior high school students to learn more about where their food comes from.

“When a student asks a specific question about organic foods or corn syrup or gluten, it comes from a place of curiosity and one influenced usually by a social trend and not factual information,” says Pratt. 

Radke, who in addition to ranching, retailing, parenting, and public speaking is also a published author of eight children’s books, shares how misconceptions and misinformation can impact the ag community at large.

“When these misconceptions permeate popular culture, it impacts politics, perceptions, consumer buying trends, food prices, regulations, etc.,” notes Radke.

Listen in for best practices on communicating with young consumers, empowering them to feel good about their food choices, and ideas on how RDNs can better engage youth in their nutrition choices. 

Learn more about Katie at https://www.theillinoisfarmgirl.com/ and visit her on Facebook. 

Visit Amanda at www.amandaradke.com, on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok.