S1 EP 8: Stonington Farms Shellfish - Love, Loss and Oysters with Kris & Beth Simonds

Send a COMMENT to OYSTER-ology here!In this episode of OYSTER-ology, Kris and Beth Simonds share their heartfelt journey into oyster farming and the work they do at Stonington Farms Shellfish in Mystic, Connecticut. Despite having a picturesque farm at Murphy Point, their journey wasn't smooth. After the sudden loss of his wife and mother to his son Jake, Kris gradually found solace and purpose in oyster farming. With Jake's passionate involvement, Kris transformed their home into an oyster farm. Beth, who had endured years trapped in an abusive marriage, found new love and direction with Kris, eventually joining him and Jake full-time on the farm and full-time in life. Together, they face the challenges of running an oyster farm while being deeply intertwined in their work and personal lives, striving to deliver top-quality products. They also emphasize their commitment to community and environmental stewardship, despite facing financial and operational hurdles. Their story is a testament to human resilience, passion, and the importance of finding a calling that merges work and family life. They even talk about Beth's beloved ducks, which add character to their idyllic farm setting. Third partner in the farm, Dana Hines, is also part of the "crazy mess" that is Stonington Farms, and solidifies the bond of life, love and oysters. That lively conversation can be heard in Episode 9 after you enjoy this one. Oyster farming with Kris and Beth isn’t just a job; it’s an inspiring journey worth savoring as much as their succulent oysters.NOTE: This episode contains some explicit language or topics, so you may want to make sure the kiddies and HR are not listening in...Shownotes:00:00 Introduction: The Unseen Essentials00:30 Meet Kris and Beth: The Oysterology Guests00:49 The Idyllic Mystic Cove01:20 Kris's Journey: From Loss to Oyster Farming02:26 Jake's Passion for the Water06:57 Beth's Story: From Teacher to Oyster Farmer11:44 Building a Life and Business Together20:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Oyster Farming24:07 Innovative Techniques and Environmental Impact32:24 Oyster Varieties and Market Categories33:42 Challenges in Oyster Farming34:27 Connecticut's Oyster Legislation37:14 The Co-op Controversy42:42 Community Outreach and Education45:18 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations55:29 Oyster Farming Passion and PhilosophyLinks: https://vimeo.com/946310418?&login=trueVideo: Rising Tide To Table. An outstanding video highlighting the work of Stonington Farms Shellfish and Chef Emily Mingronehttps://www.foodwalkers.com/foodwalkers/2024/1/21/stonington-farms-shellfish-shucking-it-forward-with-love-amp-oysters A post with numerous photos by OYSTER-ology host, Kevin Cox, about Stonington Farms Shellfish on Foodwalkers.comhttps://www.stoningtonfarmsshellfish.org/  Stonington Farms Shellfish website.Please be sure to Like and Follow OYSTER-ology wherever you listen to podcasts, and tell others about it. Every positive mention of it helps more people find the podcast!