Storytelling has the power to shift perspectives, inspire action, and connect us across borders. In this episode, we sit down with filmmaker, photographer, and URI professor Jason Jaacks, whose work explores the natural world and our place within it through science, history, and human experience. From producing films for National Geographic to documenting voices on the frontlines of conservation, Jaacks shows how stories can illuminate urgent issues while also sparking empathy and wonder. Together, we discuss the craft of telling stories that don’t just inform—but move us toward impact.

Studying abroad isn’t just about seeing the world—it’s about setting yourself apart. In this episode of Rhody ’Round the World, we dive into how international experiences give students a competitive edge in today’s global job market. From gaining cross-cultural skills to building confidence and adaptability, studying abroad helps students stand out in ways that go far beyond the classroom. You’ll hear stories of transformation, lessons learned, and how these experiences open doors to new opportunities both personally and professionally.

Food is more than fuel—it’s culture, comfort, and connection. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Brietta Oaks, Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Rhode Island, to explore how what we eat shapes identity and community, and how it also reveals larger systems of public health, sustainability, and equity. From her work on prenatal nutrition to studying oysters as a source of maternal nourishment in West Africa, Dr. Oaks shares insights into how food can be both deeply personal and profoundly global.

Welcome to Rhody 'Round the World! Meet your hosts, Carolyn and Keegan.