GermiNation S2E4: The Future of Seeds Starts Here — Dr. Susana Goggi on Legacy, Leadership, and the Next Generation

As she prepares to retire, Susana Goggi reflects on a remarkable career shaping the science and the people behind seed technology. In this episode of GermiNation, Dr. Goggi shares how she found her way into seed physiology, the evolution of the field, and why seed scientists are more critical than ever in the face of climate change and global food security challenges. From ensuring seed quality to understanding the full journey from breeder to farmer, she explains why seed science remains the foundation of agriculture even in an era of AI and biotech. The conversation also highlights a pressing concern: while more students are entering the industry, fewer are pursuing careers in academia, creating a growing gap in training the next generation of seed experts. Plus, hear directly from Iowa State students as they share what excites them about the seed industry, what they’re looking for in their careers, and why mentorship and purpose matter more than salary. This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every harvest is a seed and behind every seed is a scientist.