Shows
The Spark Bird PodcastWaking Up to Birds with Michael LombardoIn this week's episode, our hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome Michael Lombardo, the creator of the McGolrick Bird Club in North Brooklyn. Michael shares his journey from a career in the tech industry to becoming a passionate birder and community leader. Michael discusses the creation and growth of the McGoldrick Bird Club, highlighting the importance of weekly bird walks, community engagement, and the power of noticing the natural world around us. Explore more from Michael Lombardo and the McGolrick Bird Club 📸 Follow @mcgolrickbirdclub on Instagram for bird walk updates and moments of...2025-07-1855 min
The Spark Bird PodcastFrom City to Sand: Chris Allieri’s NYC Plover ProjectIn this episode, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally speak with Chris Allieri, founder and executive director of NYC Plover Project, which he launched in 2021 after recognizing a gap in conservation efforts right in his own city. During the height of the pandemic, when New York City’s plover nesting grounds were especially vulnerable, Chris stepped up, not just to protect the birds, but to build a stronger culture of conservation in the city. His story is one of grassroots action, intergenerational learning, and a call to all of us to take part in protecting what’s wild and at r...2025-07-0443 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Therapeutic Beauty of Birdsong with Nandi RoseIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome musician Nandi Rose of Half Waif. Nandi shares her Spark Bird story, recounting how a flash of color spotted in Costa Rica opened the door to a quieter, deeper noticing back home in the Upper Hudson Valley. For Nandi, it’s less about sight and more about sound, and bird song has become her guide. Even without binoculars, there’s a sense of recognition in the songs. A feeling of being spoken to, of returning to something familiar and sacred. Her music, like her birdi...2025-06-2043 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Spark Bird Podcast x The Field Guides PodcastIn this special crossover episode, The Spark Bird Podcast's Jenn Lodi-Smith teams up with Bill Michalek of The Field Guides Podcast for a walk through Buffalo’s historic Forest Lawn Cemetery. As they explore the grounds, Jenn and Bill reflect on their spark birds, discuss bird migration and conservation. The episode also features Spark Bird stories from a variety of voices from the Feminist Bird Club of Buffalo in Forest Lawn Cemetery, showcasing the power of community in birding. Resources & Links from This Episode 🔗 Listen to more nature adventures with Bill and Steve on Th...2025-06-0656 min
From Beneath the Hollywood Sign"STEVE & NAN EXPLORE THE WILD, WILD WEST OF OLD HOLLYWOOD" (089)FBTHS #089 - "Steve & Nan Explore the Wild, Wild West of Old Hollywood"
In this episode of From Beneath the Hollywood Sign, hosts Steve and Nan saddle up for a lively conversation about their favorite Western films. From dusty saloons to sweeping desert vistas, they explore the iconic imagery, unforgettable characters, and timeless themes that make the Western genre a cornerstone of American cinema. Whether you're a fan of classic John Ford shootouts or revisionist tales that challenge the myth of the Old West, Steve and Nan share personal picks and behind-the-scenes stories that will...2025-05-2647 min
The Spark Bird PodcastLyanda Lynn Haupt on Storytelling and StarlingsIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally talk with Lyanda Lynn Haupt, a writer known for exploring the connections between people and the natural world. The conversation follows Haupt’s path into bird watching, beginning in her childhood in the Pacific Northwest and shaped by her parents’ casual interest in birds. She recalls memorable encounters with species like the Northern Spotted Owl and how those moments influenced her work. Lyanda Lynn Haupt also talks about her experience living with a Starling, named Carmen, which inspired her book Mozart’s Starling. ...2025-05-2342 min
The Spark Bird PodcastAaron Haiman: From Young Birder to Conservation LeaderIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally talk with Aaron Haiman about his lifelong passion for birding, sparked by a childhood experience with a White-Tailed Kite. Aaron shares his unique journey from becoming a young birder to his current role at the Wildlife Conservation Board in California. The conversation explores the importance of mentorship in birding, the barriers young birders face, and the joy of contributing to bird conservation. We’re excited to share all the ways you can follow and connect with Aaron, the voice beh...2025-05-0925 min
Sexy Unique PodcastValley of the Dolls Ep. 16 - Fear and Loathing in Santa Barbara (The Valley S2E4)Lara and Carey continue to feel the new studio glow, and are ready to bear the weight of the world. They discuss the official start of the Papal Conclave, priests singing showtimes at a piano bar, Barry Diller officially coming out as gay and Lara’s dream marriage, Keith McNally’s new memoir and Balthazar as a spiritual refuge, ChatGPT inspiring spiritual delusion, the Real Housewives of Rhode Island, SUP’s future Golden Globe nomination, and possible serial killer in Valley Village. Back on The Valley, the crew heads to Santa Barbara to race remote control cars, shawts...2025-05-081h 40
Gardeners' CornerThe garden lost under a car park, taking on a mature garden and Adam Frost’s shrub of the monthWith the arrival of an early summer, David heads to Bangor where a non-gardening couple took on a beautiful mature garden 9 years ago. Janet and her husband Carl had lived in South Africa, Germany and England, but it was only in taking on their garden near Ballyholme Beach that they got into all things green. David tours the suburban plot and finds out how it has connected them with neighbours and taught them patience. In Kilkenny, David explores the restored 17th century garden behind Rothe House which was lost under a car park until 2008. Gardener Mary Pyke explains how...2025-05-0356 min
The Spark Bird PodcastEdge of the World Birding with Dr. George DivokyIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally interview Dr. George Divoky, an ornithologist with a Ph.D. in Zoology. He shares his Spark Bird story, recounting how a sighting of a Slate-colored Junco in his childhood ignited his passion for birding. He discusses his research on Black Guillemot and the challenges posed by climate change. Dr. Divoky also shares his personal experiences of solitude and connection with nature during his fieldwork in remote locations. (Photo Credit Joe McNally) Resources & Links from This Episode 2025-04-2535 min
The Spark Bird PodcastBirding Across America: Marcia OBara’s Inspiring JourneyIn this episode of the Spark Bird podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome Marcia OBara, a retired registered nurse and avid birder. Marcia shares her inspiring journey of birding in all 50 states and recounts her Spark Bird moment in 1984 that ignited her passion for birding. Despite living with a severe lung disease, Marcia continues to lead accessible birding trips for the Tucson Audubon Society and other organizations. She discusses how the practice has evolved from field guides to apps, and why accessibility in birding matters now more than ever. A photo by Freya McGregor. Taken...2025-04-1131 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Healing Power of Ospreys with Pam LowellIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally talk with Pam Lowell, a social worker, watercolor artist, and author. Pam shares her Spark Bird story, describing how sightings of a Quetzal and Osprey ignited her passion for birding and transformed her life. Pam highlights her volunteer work with Mass Audubon, her book My Summer with Ospreys: A Therapist's Journey Towards Hope, Community, and Healing Our Planet, and the importance of environmental advocacy. Resources & Links from This Episode Pam Lowell’s Work & Socials: 📖 My Summe...2025-03-2826 min
The Spark Bird PodcastArt, Health, and Birding with Tina MullenIn this episode of the Spark Bird podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome artist and healthcare professional Tina Mullen. Tina shares her Spark Bird story about how the Sandhill Crane ignited her passion for birds. She discusses her work in the Arts and Medicine program at the University of Florida and the importance of integrating creativity into healthcare settings to promote health and well-being. The conversation explores Tina's art projects, including her series on bird species decline inspired by a poignant letter to Roger Tory Peterson. Resources & Links from This Episode ...2025-02-2844 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Power of Art and Journaling with John Muir LawsIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome naturalist and author John Muir Laws, also known as Jack. They dive into Jack's Spark Bird story, discussing how a childhood birding experience with his father ignited his lifelong passion for birds and nature. Jack shares insights on how journaling can enhance observation and attention, his transition from environmental education to creating field guides, and inciting the international nature journaling movement. Resources & Links from This Episode 🎨 John Muir Laws’ Website – Explore his art, field guides, and educational resources: Visit here...2025-02-0738 min
The Spark Bird PodcastBird Conservation with Scott WeidensaulIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome Scott Weidensaul, Pulitzer Prize finalist and author of over 30 books on natural history. Scott shares his lifelong passion for Raptors, recounting his influential visit to Hawk Mountain and his extensive work in bird migration research. He discusses the significance of technology in modern birding and conservation, highlighting initiatives like Project SNOWstorm and the Northeast Motus Collaboration. The episode also explores the historical impact of Roger Tory Peterson on the birding community and the enduring legacy of Hog Island Audubon Camp. 2025-02-0752 min
The Spark Bird PodcastBirding as a Pathway to Healing with Cat FribleyIn this episode of the Spark Bird podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome Cat Fribley, Executive Director at Birdability. Cat shares her Spark Bird story, recounting how a college friend's introduction to birding provided emotional balance during a hard period of her life. She discusses Birdability's mission to make birding accessible for people with disabilities and health challenges, and the impact of community-building and creating inclusive outdoor spaces. Cat also shares Birdability's various programs, including the Birdability Map and the new Blind Birders Birdathon, highlighting the organization's achievements in democratizing birding for all. ...2025-02-0743 min
The Spark Bird PodcastA Spark Bird Journey with Sara MorrisIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally talk with Sara Morris, the Executive Director of Shoals Marine Lab and President of the American Ornithological Society. Sara shares her Spark Bird story of how a family Christmas tradition and a borrowed bird field guide ignited her passion for birding and ornithology at age seven. They also discuss the link between birding and ornithology, the significance of field guides, and the necessity for ongoing bird conservation efforts. Resources & Links from This Episode 🌊 Shoals Marine Lab – A leading institution for hands-on marine...2025-02-0639 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Intersection of Art and Birding with Kayla FiskIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally interview Kayla Fisk, a lifelong birder and artist from central New York. Kayla shares her Spark Bird story, recalling how a unique encounter with a Chuck-will's-widow during her childhood ignited her deeper fascination with birds and birding communities. Kayla also discusses how her art is inspired by birds, the mindfulness it brings, and the process of integrating birding into her artistic practice. Resources & Links from This Episode 📸 Follow Kayla on Instagram – See her latest birding adventures at @kaylafiskbirds. 🌐 Visit Kayla’s We...2025-02-0626 min
The Spark Bird PodcastThe Magic of Spark Bird Experiences with Arthur PearsonIn this episode of the Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally welcome Arthur Pearson, CEO of the Roger Tory Peterson Institute (RTPI). Arthur shares his spark bird story, recounting how a Kingfisher ignited his passion for birding. They discuss the history and mission of RTPI, the revolutionary impact of field guides by Roger Tory Peterson, and the importance of naming in connecting with nature. Arthur discusses RTPI's efforts to honor Peterson's legacy through art and conservation, and the institute's role in fostering the next generation of nature advocates. Resources & Links from This E...2025-02-0639 min
The Spark Bird PodcastIntroducing The Spark Bird PodcastIn the inaugural episode of The Spark Bird Podcast, hosts Jenn Lodi-Smith and Janet McNally, share personal narratives about how they developed their passion for birds. The podcast is a part of The Spark Bird Project, a community science initiative that collects and disseminates stories of people's enthusiasm for birds while gaining ecological insights into birders themselves. Show Notes by Kayla Gajewski 2025-02-0627 min
Farm DogEp 98: Double your lamb crop with wolves (Janet McNally - Rebroadcast)Janet McNally, Tamarack Lamb & Wool, Hinckley, Minnesota
Tamarack Lamb & Wool website: http://www.tamaracksheep.com/
Tamarack Lamb & Wool meat sales: http://www.eatlamb.com/
Janet McNally on TikTok: @tamarack_sheep
Farm Dog is presented by Goats On The Go® and hosted by its founder, Aaron Steele. Questions, comments, or topic suggestions? Let us know at FarmDogPodcast.com.
Creative Commons Music by Jason Shaw on Audionautix.com.2024-10-0858 min
Choosing to Farm: New Generation StoriesHannah & John Doyle Front Load Hardship“Raising animals is heavy. Even when it goes really well, it's heavy. And when you have losses, like we have had in the last couple of years, it changes the math -- even the finances of it. Okay, yeah, we lost money because we lost so many hens, but what we also lost sleep and tears and to wake up and go out and have a hundred chickens killed in one night--that happened to us once--and it just is so devastating.”—Hannah
“To know that food is not a product that you buy at the store and...2024-06-221h 09
Hamilton Today with Scott Thompson5 former World Junior players facing sexual assault chargesThe Hamilton Today Podcast with Scott Thompson:We take a closer look at the sexual assault case against 5 former members of the Canadian World Juniors hockey team. Canada is set to host 13 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup's matches. It would appear that the 'We Are The World' documentary is missing what's touted as the most moving moment of the night. The federal government plans to extend its ban on foreign homebuyers for another two years. Facebook is marking its 20th anniversary. Many immigrants are deciding to leave Canada only a few years after arriving according to StatsCan...2024-02-061h 15
ATTRA - Voices from the FieldShe’s Raising Sheep: Maryrose Livingston of New York, Part 2This episode of Voices from the Field is the second of a two-part conversation between Maryrose Livingston of Northland Sheep Dairy in New York and NCAT Regenerative Grazing Specialist Linda Poole. It is part of the podcast’s occasional “She’s Raising Sheep” series.Maryrose and Linda give advice for those considering starting a sheep dairy, including ways to improve the bottom line by saving money whenever possible.Related ATTRA Resources:· Episode 305. She’s Raising Sheep: Maryrose Livingston of New York· Episode 244. She’s Raising Sheep: Indiana’s Denice Rackley· E...2023-05-3134 minATTRA - Voices from the FieldShe's Raising Sheep: Maryrose Livingston of New YorkDespite a centuries-long tradition of sheep dairying in Eurasia, sheep dairies are rare in the United States. But burgeoning demand for artisanal sheep cheeses is prompting more shepherds launching dairy enterprises. This episode of Voices from the Field is the first of a two-part conversation between Maryrose Livingston of Northland Sheep Dairy in New York — America's oldest sheep dairy — and NCAT Regenerative Grazing Specialist Linda Poole. It is part of the podcast’s occasional “She’s Raising Sheep” series.Maryrose shares useful, funny, and sometimes painful lessons in her journey from suburban Detroit schoolgirl to being the she...2023-05-2446 min