Julia Skinner, PhD Julia Skinner, PhD is the author of Our Fermented Lives, and the founder of Root, Atlanta's fermentation and food history company where she offers online classes and worldwide consulting for creative projects and researchers. About Southern Living Southern Living, a Dotdash Meredith Brand, celebrates the food, homes, places, and culture of the South. We reach 7.2 million readers a month. Our content is written by experienced journalists and fact checked for accuracy. Learn more about us and our editorial guidelines.