Shows
Everyday Environment PodcastTaking action for wildlife: The power of community scienceIn this episode of the Everyday Environment Podcast, hosts Amy Lefringhouse and Karla Griesbaum talk with Allen Lawrance, Curator of Entomology at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, to discuss the power of community science and how volunteers contribute valuable data to wildlife monitoring programs across Illinois. Allen highlights initiatives like the Illinois Butterfly Monitoring Network, the Illinois Odonate Survey, and the Calling Frog Survey. These programs help track species abundance and distribution and are crucial for understanding environmental change, including the impacts of habitat loss and climate change. Allen emphasizes that anyone can participate with basic training—no science ba...
2025-10-3035 min
Everyday Environment PodcastGopher it: Uncovering the unique ecology of the plains pocket gopherBeneath Illinois’ soil lives a little-known but ecologically important animal — the plains pocket gopher. In this episode, hosts Amy Lefringhouse and Darci Webber talk with Nathan Alexander, postdoctoral researcher at the Illinois Natural History Survey, about what makes this gopher unique to Illinois. Nathan shares how this “angry potato” of the prairie shapes soil health, how agriculture has influenced its habitat over time, and why this subspecies has a fascinating Ice Age origin story. Listeners will also learn how community science can help researchers better understand and protect this elusive species. Share your own Everyday ObservationWas th...
2025-10-1636 min
Everyday Environment PodcastMovement of Armadillos in Illinois with Agustin JimenezThe Mexican long-nosed armadillo (Dasypus mexicanus) has become a recent addition to the local fauna of Illinois as a response to habitat alteration and climate change. With these new species and many others comes new diseases and exposure of pathogens. Join Southern Illinois University associate professor Agustin Jimenez as he discusses zoonotic diseases and how the movement of Illinois wildlife, particularly armadillos, is impacting our understanding of pathology. Share your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn’t cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us your question or...
2025-10-091h 11
Everyday Environment PodcastCity dwellers: the Urban Coyote Research Project with Chris AnchorThe Urban Coyote Research Project is an ongoing 25-year project studying coyotes in the Chicagoland area. Join Chris Anchor, wildlife biologist for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, as he discusses his 40-year career in wildlife management and the insights we’ve gained from this long-term research project. Learn more about Urban Wildlife: Research at the Forest Preserves of Cook CountyThe Urban Coyote Research ProjectIDNR's Living with Wildlife WebsiteShare your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn’t cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us you...
2025-10-0246 min
Beyond the FeedThe Pyramid Scheme: Finding a Balance in Food Education and NutritionPiedmont University assistant professor Garrett Kinsey joins host Erin Donovan to discuss dieting consequences in college athletes, the process of opening up a gym, and Kinsey's take on the food pyramid. Kinsey shares his thoughts on how nutrition education needs reform, and what changing food education might look like.
2025-09-2624 min
Everyday Environment PodcastAn alien experience they just keep coming back for: fish hatcheries in Illinois with Kayleigh SmithFish hatcheries are an important tool for the heritage and recreation of Illinois wildlife. Join Kayleigh Smith, Outreach specialist for the IDNR Jake Wolf Memorial Fish Hatchery as she discusses the work at the fish hatchery and how it support conservation of Illinois wildlife. Share your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn’t cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us your question or share your everyday nature observation with us at go.illinois.edu/EEconnect, and we may share it in a future blog or podcast....
2025-09-2550 min
Everyday Environment PodcastWhat role do bison play in restoring Illinois prairies?Find out the difference between bison and buffalo...Amy and Darci talk with Dr. Elizabeth Bach from The Nature Conservancy about prairie restoration at Nachusa Grasslands. From reintroducing bison to boosting biodiversity, the conversation explores how science, history, and community come together to restore Illinois’ tallgrass prairie. Resources to learn moreNachusa GrasslandsResearch by moonlight: Study shows bison alter ‘landscape of fear’ for rodents in grasslandsPlant and bird responses to bison grazing at Nachusa GrasslandsGrassland Restoration NetworkInvertebrate responses to bison grazing and prescribed fire management (research article)Share your own Everyday ObservationWas there...
2025-09-1841 min
Everyday Environment PodcastWildlife in trouble: when to step in and when to step backHosts Amy Lefringhouse and Darci Webber chat with Sydney Oliveira from the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic about what to do if you find injured wildlife, how to prevent common injuries, and the vital role rehabilitation and education play in conservation. Resources to learn moreUniversity of Illinois Wildlife Medical ClinicIllinois Extension WildlifeNational Wildlife Rehabilitators AssociationWildlife Illinois - Orphaned WildlifeLicensed Wildlife Rehabilitator MapShare your own Everyday ObservationWas there something about this topic we didn’t cover? See something cool in nature? Let us know! Send us your question or share yo...
2025-09-1135 min
Everyday Environment PodcastIt's all edges: road ecology with Kevin RohlingThere are nearly 4 million miles of roadway in the U.S., allowing people to access almost anywhere, at any time, which has its benefits for people but also numerous ecological drawbacks. Learn from Kevin Rohling how roads alter the ecology of an area and affect our wildlife. Check out the Everyday Environment Blog for more information and a reference to the studies Kevin discusses in the podcast.Questions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu Subscribe to our N...
2025-09-0440 min
Everyday Environment PodcastEnvironmental DNA basics: how we detect hidden life with Dr. Mark DavisIn this amazing episode, conservation biologist Dr. Mark Davis joins hosts Amy and Karla to explain environmental DNA (eDNA)—genetic material shed by organisms into their surroundings. This tool allows researchers to detect species in water, soil, and air without disturbing them. A fascinating look at how invisible clues in nature help protect biodiversity.Highlights:- Rediscovering the endangered salamander mussel in Illinois after 100 years using eDNA.- Detecting rare Hawaiian birds through flower samples.- eDNA enables faster, less invasive biodiversity surveys.- Limitations include short DNA lifespan an...
2025-08-2844 min
Everyday Environment PodcastA poster child for wildlife conservation: quail in IllinoisJoin Quail Forever biologist Brodie Eddington as he shares his expertise and experience with quail and the restoration of their habitat. Quail are culturally significant to Illinois , and their conservation is important for the preservation of this heritage and our Illinois ecosystems. Learn about the status of bobwhite quail populations, the culture around this species, and what Illinois organizations and residents are doing to protect this species. Resources:Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever IllinoisIDNR Quail Hunting InformationQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, A...
2025-08-2131 min
Everyday Environment PodcastFunding the wild: the role of outdoor recreation in conservationIn this episode of the Everyday Environment Podcast, hosts Amy Lefringhouse and Karla Griesbaum dive into outdoor recreation trends and their connection to conservation. Curt Sinclair from Illinois 4-H discusses how outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing contribute to conservation funding through license fees and federal programs. The conversation highlights the importance of accessible outdoor spaces, youth involvement, and everyday citizens playing a role in conservation.Resources to learn moreIllinois Learn to Hunt programIllinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR)Hunters Feeding Illinois program (IL Extension)Hunt IllinoisI...
2025-08-1447 min
Paid To Travel: The UGC Podcast16: How To Overcome The Fear Of Starting Something New w/ Trauma Therapist Erin ValenteStarting something new like becoming UGC content creator is exciting—but it also stirs up a lot of fear, self-doubt, and straight-up discomfort. In today’s episode, I sat down with Erin Valenti, a trauma-informed therapist, to break down why that happens and what you can actually do about it.We dig deep into how the nervous system and unprocessed trauma can quietly shape your decisions, your fears around visibility, and even your ability to hit “record” and film your first UGC video. Whether you’re a new creator dreaming of g...
2025-08-1130 min
The Bohemian Queen PodcastAnxiety: Too Sensitive… or Just Tuned In? 🌱Send us a text🎙️In this exposing solo episode, Erin dives deep into her personal experience with anxiety, the kind that takes over your thoughts, tightens your chest, and leaves you feeling ungrounded and unseen. She shares what it means to truly come home to yourself, how to rebuild self-trust, and why reminding your nervous system that you are safe is essential to healing.🧿She also takes a raw, honest look at her past, offering deep self-forgiveness for the version of herself that was just trying to survive. Through acceptance and compassion, Erin explores how healing...
2025-08-0733 min
Everyday Environment PodcastThere's a snake in my basement!: wildlife encounters with Joy O'KeefeAnimal Encounters are everywhere, but what do I do if encounter one? What should I expect to see at this moment? Join Joy O’Keefe, Extension Wildlife Specialist as she answers your burning questions about the wildlife we see everyday. Check out the Illinois Extension Wildlife Website to learn more about these encounters. Questions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu Subscribe to our NewsletterCheck out our BlogSee the Everyday Environment Archives
2025-08-0755 min
Everyday Environment PodcastNew season, new puns: the season 3 previewJoin Everyday Environment for Season 3 as we explore a brand new aspect of the natural world with new hosts and new guests! Join Amy and Abigail as they welcome new hosts, Karla and Darci, and give you a preview of what to expect for the Wildlife season of Everyday Environment. From the episode: Darci's Global Academy ArticleQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse heberlei@illinois.edu Subscribe to our NewsletterCheck out our BlogSee the...
2025-07-3135 min
Everyday Environment PodcastFrom youth to adults: engaging our communities to learn about their waterThis week we chat with Peggy Anesi, Natural Resources, Environment, and Energy Educator for Illinois Extension in northern Illinois. Peggy brings a wealth of experience in environmental education and shares her experiences working to engage different audiences all about water. From Watershed Stewards to a Paddle and Learn program to youth educational offerings, Peggy discusses the importance of engaging communities at multiple levels to become advocates for clean water in their communities. Check out Peggy's blog on this topic here. Learn more about the Watershed Stewards programQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!...
2025-05-2242 min
Everyday Environment PodcastWater Economics: The Pricing PuzzleIn this episode of Everyday Environment, hosts Amy and Abigail explore the puzzle of water pricing with guest Margaret Schneemann, Water Resource Economics Specialist with Illinois Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant. From aging infrastructure and economic planning to affordability and policy decisions, Margaret helps piece together the many factors that influence what we pay for water. Tune in for a deep dive into the hidden systems—and tough choices—behind every drop from your tap. Resources to learn more:Illinois State Water Survey interactive map of public water sourcesQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!
2025-05-1544 min
Medium Lady ReadsEpisode 41: A Real Dud of a Thriller... plus What is a Novella And Do we Like ThemHello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 41, “A Real Dud of a Thriller... plus What is a Novella And Do we Like Them?” Erin and Jillian are so happy to be back with you this week—and of course, they've got more great books to share that they think you'll love! Whether you're looking for your next cozy read, something to make you laugh, or a story that’ll completely sweep you away, they've got you covered. So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and let's dive into this week’s bookish goodness together!
2025-05-1339 min
Everyday Environment PodcastProtecting our water supply with helicopters? How communities are tackling water challengesWhile the City of Chicago and many of its surrounding communities have access to water from Lake Michigan, the rest of Northeast Illinois relies primarily on groundwater aquifers for all its drinking water. These groundwater aquifers provide a wide range of opportunities for drinking water…as well as a variety of challenges. Tune in as we talk to Scott Kuykendall, McHenry County Water Resource Specialist, about our water resources. You'll learn all about Illinois geology, its aquifers, and what communities are doing to help protect our water supply. For additional information and graphics, check out Scott's blog!Resou...
2025-05-0851 min
Everyday Environment PodcastTaking a systems-based approach to community water managementThis week we chat with Kara Salazar from Purdue Extension and Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant about how communities approach sustainable development around their water resources. Kara discusses the challenges of managing stormwater, green infrastructure solutions like bioswales and permeable pavements, how you can become involved in learning more about your community’s water, and how climate change is impacting water resource planning. Check out our blog on this topic here. Resources: EDEN – Extension Disaster Education NetworkClimate Change and Sustainable DevelopmentOne Water Approach to Water Resources ManagementQuestions? We'd love to hear from...
2025-05-0133 min
Spiritual Spotlight SeriesYou Don't Need All the Answers to Heal: Erin Panzarella’s Transformational PathSend us a textWhat if healing didn’t require reliving every painful memory? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Erin Panzarella, a spiritual mentor and quantum healer whose life story is a testament to transformation and resilience. Adopted and having faced abandonment issues after her father's early death, Erin found herself battling anxiety and depression. Yet, through her mother’s Reiki practice, she experienced a profound spiritual awakening that set her on a path of healing and self-discovery. Erin’s journey emphasizes how energy work can release stored emotions and trauma without...
2025-04-2436 min
Everyday Environment PodcastTaking into consideration the next 100 years: the reversal of the Chicago RiverThe history books often referred to the reversal of the Chicago River as an engineering marvel, but how did they do it? Why did they do it? and Why is it important to learn about it? Join Phil Nicodemus from Urban Rivers as he discusses the history of the Chicago River and the historical and current work done on the Chicago River to support humans and biodiversity. To read about it, check out the Everyday Environment BlogQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy...
2025-04-2453 minMedium Lady ReadsEpisode 40: Wonderful Publishers Behind Wonderful AuthorsHello, hi, and welcome to Medium Lady Reads. This is episode 40, “Wonderful Publishers Behind Wonderful Authors.”Welcome back to Medium Lady Reads! Erin and Jillian are excited to land in a new “decade” of episodes. The ladies are both in their 40s and they’ve hit their stride with the podcast as they arrive at episode forty. This episode will continue to bring you all the content you love! Book recs, cozy vibes and hot takes, Jillian and Erin are so glad you’re here!In This Episode:The ladies thank their listeners fo...
2025-04-2239 min
Everyday Environment PodcastNutrient loss in our waterways: the role of agricultureEverybody has a part to play in protecting the valuable resource that is water. So what is the part of farmers? As producers of our food, fiber, and fuel, farmers are essential to our economy, our plates, and our way of life. Learn from Rachel Curry about the options farmers have to protect water quality and the challenges they face in doing so. Check out the blog post on this topic for more information. Resources:Check out Illinois Extension’s nutrient loss reduction website to learn more about nutrient loss. Saturated buffer videoNutrient Lo...
2025-04-1030 min
EDGE of the Web - The Best SEO Podcast for Today's Digital Marketer753 | SEO Week 2025: Shaping the Future of Search with AI and Digital StrategiesThis is going to be big. SEO Week 2025 is happening at the end of this month!. Held from April 28th to May 1st in New York City, this conference brings together a powerhouse of 40+ speakers to discuss the seismic shifts in SEO, including generative AI and its profound implications on search dynamics. Join Erin Sparks, Garrett Sussman, and Mike King as they share tales from the frontlines of SEO innovation. The conference is set to be groundbreaking. Thematic days are focused on the Science, Psychology, Ecosystem, and Future of SEO. Special g...
2025-04-041h 03
Everyday Environment PodcastA gauntlet for Carp: invasives species in our waterwaysFrom the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, Illinois’ waters are incredible environmental and economic resources, supporting a diversity of plants and animals, providing drinking water for millions of people, and allowing for transportation and recreation. However, aquatic invasive species can threaten these resources. These organisms cause harm to native species and collectively costing humans millions of dollars annually in impacts and control. Join the Everyday Environment team as they chat with Aquatic Invasive Species Specialist, Katie O'Reilly from Illinois Indiana Sea Grant. Resources: Transport Zero CampaignAquatic Invaders in the MarketplaceInvasive Crayfish Collaborative...
2025-04-0346 min
Everyday Environment PodcastRain Check: Creative ways to use stormwater to your advantageIn this episode, we talk with Eliana Brown, Water Quality and Stormwater Specialist with University of Illinois Extension. Eliana explains how we can do simple things that improve lakes and rivers and why it's important to do so. This podcast complements Extension's Stormwater@Home video series. With Eliana, we define stormwater, explore the challenges and solutions of stormwater management, and discuss innovative technologies being implemented within Illinois communities. Erin and Amy both serve mostly rural landscapes so we talk about the differences between urban and rural stormwater management. As always, come away with a few tips about what you...
2025-03-2753 min
Everyday Environment PodcastWhat you should know about contaminants of emerging concernWhen people think about ‘contaminants of emerging concern’ in our waters, it sounds like a scary, complicated thing. But in truth, it’s not. There are a number of things in our everyday lives that can pollute our water – even medicine, clothing, and what we use to keep our homes safe and beautiful can become contaminants. In this podcast episode, we’ll discuss how to keep these everyday materials from becoming something that pollutes our water. Check out the blog post on this topic for more information.Resources: Unwantedmeds.orgQuestions? We'd love to hear from y...
2025-03-2036 min
Everyday Environment PodcastScience is not just for the professionals: RiverWatch and community scienceIllinois RiverWatch is a statewide community science (i.e. citizen science) program that trains volunteers to monitor water quality in their local streams. Learn how volunteers across the state use small water bugs, called macroinvertebrates, to look at stream health. Check out the blog post on this topic for more information.Illinois RiverWatch: Check out upcoming volunteer trainings and subscribe to their newsletter Podcast: The Science Behind Fall Color, Good Growing. Abigail mentioned this during Everyday ObservationsQuestions? We'd love to hear from you!Abigail Garofalo aeg9@illinois.edu, Erin Garrett emedvecz@illinois.edu, Amy Lefringhouse h...
2025-03-1339 min