In this episode of the Savannah Irish Podcast brought to you by The Savannah Irish Festival host Tara Reese sits down with Dr. Amy Potter and a group of honors global scholars from Georgia Southern University who spent six weeks in Ireland.

The Savannah Irish Podcast is proudly supported by The Irish Pub Company - the ‘Official Partner of the Guinness Irish Pub Concept’ which means that they are rated as the best in the world at creating the most profitable and authentic Irish Hospitality Concepts. They design, manufacture and fit out your venue from start to finish.

These students share their experiences conducting agricultural research, studying international farming practices, and immersing in Irish culture. They discuss their unexpected findings, such as the gap in succession planning in Irish farming and the nuanced relationship between farmers and the government.

The conversation also touches on the students' eye-opening cultural experiences, their bonding moments, and how the trip has influenced their academic and career aspirations. Dr. Potter provides insights into the broader vision of the Ireland initiative at Georgia Southern. With moments of humor and heartfelt realizations, this episode is a fascinating look at the impact of global study programs.

Learn more about the VOICES in this episode AND tap the links to support the Savannah Irish Festival:

Georgia Southern University's Research & Study Abroad Program in Wexford, Ireland

Learn all about the Savannah Irish Festival at the Alee Temple on Saturday, February 7, and Sunday, February 8, 2026

MEET our SHOW SPONSOR - The Irish Pub Company

MEET our PRODUCTION CREW: Proudly produced by Dee Daniels Media

FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 Introduction to the Savannah Irish Podcast

01:03 Meet the Georgia Southern University Honors Global Scholars

01:32 Dr. Amy Potter on the Ireland Initiative

02:01 Student Introductions and Favorite Subjects

03:15 Overview of the Agricultural Research Project

06:19 Conducting the Survey and Initial Findings

07:22 Surprising Survey Results and Farmer-Government Relations

08:01 Challenges in Succession Planning and Mental Health

11:31 Comparing Irish and American Dairy and Beef

14:04 Broader Implications of Agricultural Research

19:27 Presenting Research to High-Ranking Officials

23:49 Experiencing Irish Farm Life

28:44 Daily Life and Learning in Ireland

30:23 Self-Motivation and Group Dynamics

31:39 First Impressions and Cultural Shocks

34:25 Bonding and Social Experiences

37:48 Impact on Future Goals

41:13 Unique Learning Experiences

44:42 Reflections and Gratitude

50:01 Memorable Moments and Traditions

56:34 Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations