Eric Schmidt, an economic development reporter at St. Louis Public Radio, shares insights on kernza, a novel perennial grain from Central Asia. Unlike annual crops like corn, it offers sustainable farming benefits, such as soil preservation and carbon sequestration. Eric also discusses how kernza's unique flavor is making waves in brewing, with local businesses experimenting to create delicious new beers. Additionally, the conversation touches on the recent arrival of giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and the fascinating concept of panda diplomacy.