Shows
The Anna and Raven ShowMonday, April 7, 2025: Free Refills at a Lemonade Stand; Move-in Experiment; Unique Uber Rides!A man was arrested after trying to get a free refill at a lemonade stand! Anna, Raven, Producer Julie, and Producer Justin share if they think free refills should be allowed!
Are you up to date on this week’s biggest news story? Anna and Raven will get you caught up on the trending news stories including the UCONN Women’s Basketball team winning their 12th March Madness tournament!
Raven saw two things at someone’s house over the weekend that gave him the ick! Anna used to work as a realtor and have seen her fair sh...
2025-04-0749 min
WordtasticWordtastic Season 2 Episode 7 A Word of Advice Part 1 of 2In this episode, Beta Team agents Kim and Ethan have a bit of a mishap in an office building. Aggregator played by Regan Beach Announcer played by Dayn Leonardson Charles Dungworth III played by Jon Avner David played by Jake Henry Director Kowalski played by Steve Schneider Ethan played by Riley Hashimoto Ivan Quigley played by Owen McCuen James Shufflebottom played by Paul Lutvak Josh played by Tobin Cleary Kim played by Chiara Ponticos Lily played by...
2022-11-2517 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 319 - Evolution of the SeedSeeds are among the most important biological structures on this planet. Seeds have been instrumental in the diversification of plants, allowing them to spread into new habitats all over the globe. In fact, you and I would not be here if it were not for seeds. For these reasons and more, Dr. Cecilia Zumajo is fascinated by how seeds evolved. By looking at the genetic mechanisms that control seed development in various gymnosperms, Dr. Zumajo is opening new doors into our understanding of the development of these incredible structures. This episode was produced in part by Karma, Shelby, Christopher...
2021-05-301h 05
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 318 - The Challenges of Protecting an Endemic MintMore than half of the species on the Endangered Species List are plants and yet plants receive less than 5% of all conservation funding. If we care about slowing or reversing biodiversity loss, we need to start prioritizing plant conservation efforts. Joining us to talk about this is plant conservationist Sara Johnson. Sara's work focuses heavily on what it takes to protect rare plants like the Florida endemic mint, Macbridea alba. Join us for an in depth look at the work that goes in to protecting rare plants from extinction. This episode was produced in part by Arek, Chellie, Paul...
2021-05-231h 03
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 317 - Leaf Margins, Paleoclimates, and Continental MovementsAre the leaf margins smooth or toothed? How dense are the leaf veins? Are the petioles thick or thin? The answers to these questions go far beyond helping us identify plant species. Dr. Ian Miller of the Denver Museum of Nature and Science joins us to talk about how such details in leaf fossils can be used to understand everything from the climate of the Cretaceous to the movement of continents. You will be amazed at just how much information paleobotany can provide.This episode was produced in part by Arek, Chellie, Paul, Dani, Tara, Elly, Colleen, Natalie, Liam...
2021-05-161h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 316 - How an Asteroid Changed Neotropical RainforestsThe asteroid that slammed into the Yucatan Peninsula some 66 million years ago marked the end of the Cretaceous and the reign of the dinosaurs. As famous as this extinction event is, we know considerably less about how such disturbances affected ecosystems like tropical rainforests. That is where people like Dr. Mónica Carvalho come in. Together with her colleagues, Dr. Carvalho is using vast amounts of fossil evidence from both before and after the asteroid impact to paint a picture of how the tropical rainforests of what is now Colombia were affected by this global catastrophe. From the rise o...
2021-05-091h 06
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 315 - Deer & Forest HealthIn today's human-dominated world, healthy forests require healthy and sustainable management practices. To do this, we must try to understand the myriad processes that affect forest health and that is where our guest comes in. Dr. Matt Russell is an Associate Professor and Extension Specialist for the University of Minnesota and his research focuses on forest ecosystem health. Specifically, he aims to understand how herbivores like deer are shaping the forests of the future. Join us for an important discussion on the impacts of herbivore dynamics on forest health and regeneration in eastern North America. This episode was produced...
2021-05-0247 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 314 - The Silversword AllianceIn this episode, we take a deep dive into the wild world of the Hawaiian silversword alliance. This group of daisy relatives represents one of the most remarkable adaptive radiations on the planet and is comprised of three genera: Wilkesia, Argyroxiphium, and Dubautia. From tiny cushion plants to woody trees and vines, these unique plants have done amazing things on the Hawaiian Archipelago. Even more amazing is the fact that all of them can trace their origins back to a single seed of a daisy relative called a tarweed growing in California. Against all odds, that seed made it...
2021-04-251h 08
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 313 - Of Bluebells & BrackenBluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) are a biological treasure throughout parts of Europe and the British Isles. When left undisturbed, these spring-blooming bulbs can pain entire landscapes in blue for a few weeks each year. Aside from their beauty, bluebells are also marvels of evolution. Joining us to talk about this is Dr. Vera Fitzsimmons-Thoss AKA Vera Bluebell, a chemical ecologist turned bluebell farmer who has devoted much of her research to understanding their ecology. She is especially interested in the ecological interactions between bluebells and another dominate plant on the landscape, bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum). Join us for a deep...
2021-04-1850 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 312 - The Importance of Seed BankingHumans have been seed banking in one form or another for millennia. Whereas historically, seed banking has largely focused on agriculturally important plants, the practice has been expanded to protecting a multitude of species from extinction. Joining us in this episode is Atlanta Botanical Garden's Micropropagation and Seed Bank Coordinator, Jason Ligon to talk to us about everything involved with seed banking and how he and his team are using it to save some of the most imperiled plants in the world. This podcast was produced in part by Elly, Colleen, Natalie, Liam, Ario, Nathan, Laura, Cari, Laura, Kali...
2021-04-111h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 311 - How Oaks Get AroundThis episode is all about the fascinating world of oak seed dispersal. Many of us have undoubtedly enjoyed watching frenzied squirrels and jays hurriedly collecting and stashing acorns. But such observations are only the tip of the extremely complex iceberg of oak seed dispersal. Join ecologist Dr. Michael Steele and me as we discuss his new book "Oak Seed Dispersal: A Study in Plant-Animal Interactions," which brilliantly outlines decades of research on this topic. From how oaks pump their acorns with various chemicals to ensure at least some survive long enough to germinate to the role of predators like...
2021-04-0457 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 310 - Plants & CitiesCities are usually designed with only humans in mind, but that doesn't mean myriad other forms of life aren't adapting to live in these human-dominated landscapes as well. My guest today is Jasmin Green, a PhD candidate at UC Davis who is very curious about the ecological dynamics of plant communities in urban environments. From why some plants can establish in cities while others cannot to how different microclimates and maintenance regimes structure plant communities in vacant lots, there are seemingly endless ecological questions that can be asked about the urban environment. Join us for a fascinating dive into...
2021-03-2851 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp 309 - Plants, Pollinators, Nature, and SocietyPollination is arguably among the most important ecological processes on our planet. Entire careers have been devoted to trying to understand the countless nuances to plant pollination and yet we have only uncovered the tip of the iceberg. In this episode, we are joined by pollination ecologist, Dr. Jeff Ollerton to talk about his new book "Pollinators & Pollination: Nature & Society," which takes a deep dive into what we currently know about pollination, why it is important for both nature and society, and what we can do to protect these invaluable ecological interactions. If you care at all about the...
2021-03-2155 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 308 - The Stree Life of TreesWhat do street trees and oceanic islands have in common? It turns out a lot, at least from an ecological perspective. I sit down with Dr. Robert Warren to explore questions like do street trees constitute a functioning forest or a beautiful garden? What role do humans play in the ecology of street trees? And, how do we do better for ecology in human-dominated areas? We also discuss how these questions and more have led to the creation of a wonderful "guide" to street trees called "The Street Life of Trees: An Urban Guide" which irreverently and surreptitiously introduces...
2021-03-141h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 307 - Sleuthing to Save PlantsA lot of detective work goes into saving plants from extinction and that is what we are discussing in this episode. Dr. Anne Frances joins us to talk about all of the plant sleuthing she does as NatureServe's lead botanist. Her work has her investigating the status of everything from single sight endemics to crop wild relatives. This episode is proof that we have what it takes to save plants from extinction, we just need to try! This podcast was produced in part by Kali, Margaret, Mary, Connor, Nathan, Jan, Jerome, Brian, Melody, Azomonas, Ellie, University Greens, Cynthia, John...
2021-03-071h 06
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 306 - The Art & Science of Rock GardeningRock gardening is so much more than gardening with rocks. No one knows this better than Panayoti Kelaidis. A self-proclaimed acolyte in the cathedral of chlorophyll, Panayoti has spent a lifetime steeped in plants and gardening. As you will learn, rock gardening is truly a magnificent blend of science and art that celebrates plants as organisms and brings people together from all across the world. Join us as we take a deep dive on what it means to be a rock gardener. This podcast was produced in part by Kali, Margaret, Mary, Connor, Nathan, Jan, Jerome, Brian, Melody, Azomonas...
2021-02-281h 03
Tangent TuesdaysTangent #11 - Come Disappoint Our Mothers With Us!HOWDY! On this episode, Carly and I are disappointing our mothers one piercing at a time! We also talked about stuff and things like normal!
2021-02-2453 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 305 - In Defense of PlantsIn Defense of Plants is now a book! Hitting shelves on February 23rd, "In Defense of Plants: An Exploration into the Wonder of Plants" explores my introduction to the world of botany and the amazing ways plants make a living. Instead of me just talking at you for an hour, I figured I should let someone else take the wheel for a bit so I invited my buddy Bill Michalek from The Field Guides Podcast to sit down and talk about the process of writing this book and our views on science communication in general. This podcast was produced...
2021-02-211h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 304 - Proteas: Protecting These Botanical Shape-ShiftersFor those with even passing familiarity, the proteas represent something akin to botanical royalty. This family of plants exhibits a bewildering array of forms, lifestyles, and habitat preferences, which is why they were named in honor of the shape-shifting Greek god Proteus. Whereas Proteus was confined to the water, the proteas can be found growing terrestrially throughout the Southern Hemisphere where they face myriad environmental threats. Indeed, the most recent IUCN Red List Assessment has found that roughly 45% of proteas are threatened with extinction. Our guest for this episode wants to do everything they can to help reverse at...
2021-02-141h 20
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 303 - Lessons in Biogeography from ConifersThis episode occurs at the intersection of botany and geology, two inseparable components of the natural world. For Dr. David Charlet, what started with curiosity about a seemingly out of place population of conifers has developed into a life-long obsession with species distributions and deep time. Dr. Charlet specializes in the biogeographic history of the Great Basin and Mojave Desert with a special interest in conifers and has greatly advanced our knowledge of how geology and climate have shaped the flora of this region. This podcast was produced in part by Nathan, Jan, Jerome, Brian, Melody, Azomonas, Ellie, University...
2021-02-0757 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 302 - Community-Based Oak ConservationWe expand further on the topic of oak conservation in this episode by looking at two examples of in situ oak conservation projects. Joining us from the Morton Arboretum is Tree Conservation Ecologist, Dr. Silvia Alvarez-Clare to discuss her amazing community-based projects aimed at saving Quercus brandegeei and Quercus insignis. These efforts are all based on conserving these species where they grow all the while bolstering the communities that depend on them in the process. This podcast was produced in part by Jan, Jerome, Brian, Melody, Azomonas, Ellie, University Greens, Cynthia, John, Ashley, Peter, Cathrine, Melvin, OrangeJulian, Porter, Grif...
2021-01-311h 15
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 301 - Oaks in TroubleOaks (genus Quercus) are among the most culturally and ecologically important trees wherever they are native, which is what makes the next sentence so alarmingly depressing. The IUCN currently estimates that nearly 41% of all oak species are of conservation concern. From all out habitat destruction to invasive pests and diseases, there seems to be no end to the threats oaks face. But that doesn't mean people aren't trying to do something about it. In this episode, I sit down with Director of Global Tree Conservation at The Morton Arboretum, Dr. Murphy Westwood to talk about the Global Conservation Consortium...
2021-01-241h 05
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 300 - Reconstructing a Cretaceous FloraImagine being able to travel back 120 million years to the Early Cretaceous and scoop up handfuls of the forest floor. The amount you would discover in that material would be mind blowing and, amazingly, this is essentially what my guest gets to do. Dr. Fabiany Herrera is a paleobotanist based at the Chicago Botanic Garden who is currently helping reconstruct the flora of an ancient Mongolian swamp. Mongolia is well known for its dinosaur fossils, but what Dr. Herrera and his colleagues are uncovering is amazingly preserved evidence of the ecosystem that once support them. From resolving relationships among...
2021-01-171h 12
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 299 - Aquatic Plants & PhytoremediationGrab your snorkel and goggles because this episode takes us underwater. I sit down for a conversation with Assistant Professor Dr. La Toya Kissoon-Charles about the ways in which aquatic plants both impact and are impacted by their watery environment. From insights into water chemistry and the impacts of land-use change to the potential to clean up polluted waters, Dr. Kissoon-Charles unveils an exciting world of scientific discovery. This podcast was produced in part by Melody, Azomonas, Ellie, University Greens, Cynthia, John, Ashley, Peter, Cathrine, Melvin, OrangeJulian, Porter, Grif, Jules, Joan, Les, Marabeth, Ali, Margaret, Southside Plants, Robert, Keiko...
2021-01-1056 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 298 - Living the Gypsum Life: How Geology Can Drive SpeciationYou may have heard of the mineral gypsum through its use in making plasters, chalks, and drywall, but are you aware of its influence on plant speciation? Indeed, soils heavy in gypsum present unique challenges to plant growth but that doesn't mean plants haven't been able to conquer such substrates. In this episode, I sit down to talk with Dr. Mike Moore about his research on how gypsum-based soils have resulted in remarkable evolutionary radiations on a global scale. Along the way we gain important insights into how soils can drive evolution and why some plant lineages may be...
2021-01-0351 minTangent TuesdaysTangent #10 - Spooky Stories in December *Trigger Warning*HI! HELLO! Today we read some spooky stories off of Reddit and even venture off into nightmares (TRIGGER WARNING) that we’ve both experienced. Hope y’all had a blessed Christmas and can’t wait to talk again!!! Until then!
2020-12-301h 38
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 297 - A Deep Dive on the Cashew FamilyWhat do cashews (Anacardium spp.), mangoes (Mangifera spp.), pistachios (Pistacia spp.), and poison ivy (Toxicodendron spp.) have in common? They are all members of the family Anacardiaceae! In this episode, I sit down with Deputy Executive Director at the United States Botanic Garden, Dr. Susan Pell, who has devoted her career to understanding this incredible and surprisingly diverse family. Join us as we discuss everything from their evolutionary relationships to the remarkable ways in which some members of this family defend themselves against microbes. This podcast was produced in part by John, Ashley, Peter, Cathrine, Melvin, OrangeJulian, Porter, Grif...
2020-12-2751 minTangent TuesdaysTheory Thursday #2 - German Folklore (Merry Christmas!)Merry Christmas friends!!! Today we dove into the folklore behind Krampus and Belsnickle! Hope y’all have a blessed holiday and spend lots and lots of time with your family!! Make sure you behave, or our spoken topics may come get yah! Till next time... byeeeeeeeeee!
2020-12-251h 12Tangent TuesdaysTangent #9 - Guess the Jingle in Top Notch Sound Quality (with Drew)HEYYYYYY! Share in some laughs as we talk about life and share some discussions about music with one of our amazing peoples ANNND also play a game, guessing the jingle of shows! Can you beat us to the answer? Let’s talk again sometime... like next tuesday!!
2020-12-231h 27
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 296 - Expanding Your Barberry HorizonIn this episode, we do a deep dive into the barberry family, Berberidaceae, with environmentalist, author, and garden designer Lyndon Penner. Many of us will be familiar with the Mahonias or the prickly barberry shrubs, but they overshadow some of the more interesting members of this clade. Join us as we talk about the wonderful diversity of woodland herbs and wax poetic about all the inspiration they can bring you both in the wild and in the garden. Lyndon's intoxicating passion for plants will take you on a journey of discovery within this incredible family. This podcast was produced...
2020-12-201h 02Tangent TuesdaysTRAVELING Tangent #2 - Random Jargon and Middle School TraumaHELLLLLLOOOO FRRRRIENDS!!! We are moving once again— so come along for the ride! We talked about some random things and finished off by talking about the craziness middle school had brought us! Smell ya later, friends!!!
2020-12-1639 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 295 - Sniffing Out Solutions: How Dogs Can Help Us Save PlantsDogs are among our oldest companions. Our propensity for cohabitation and collaboration leads to unique bonds that are rare in the animal kingdom. In this episode we sit down with members of Rogue Detection Teams to talk about how some dogs are even helping save plants. From finding invasive species to sniffing out plant diseases, dogs are proving to be excellent conservation assistants. Moreover, this work is giving many dogs a second chance at life. Join me as I sit down with Heath Smith and members of the Rogue Detection Team to talk about their important work. This podcast...
2020-12-1345 minTangent TuesdaysTangent #8 - Best and Worst Movies (with Katie) ~SPOILER ALERT~Hi beautiful friends!!! **SPOILER ALERT (again)** Today we talk about some of the best— and worst— movies that we have seen!!! There may be some spoilers to movies so be aware when listening. Hope you enjoy!! Talk to y’all later!!
2020-12-091h 10
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 294 - Herbaria: Past, Present, and FutureThis episode takes a deep dive into the past, present, and future of herbaria. I sit down with Director of the William and Lynda Steere Herbarium, Dr. Barbara M. Thiers about her new book "Herbarium: The Quest to Preserve and Classify the World's Plants." Dr. Thiers has spent a lifetime thinking about and working in herbaria and she recognized the importance of telling their stories. Listen in as we discuss humanity’s impulse to save things. This podcast was produced in part by Peter, Cathrine, Melvin, OrangeJulian, Porter, Grif, Jules, Joan, Les, Marabeth, Ali, Margaret, Southside Plants, Robert, Keiko, Br...
2020-12-061h 03Tangent TuesdaysTangent #7 - Life Updates (It's Been A While)HOWDY Y'ALL!! Okie dokie... apologies for such a lengthy break! We are finally back and wanted to sit and chat about what our life has looked like the past few months!! Thank you so much for sticking around and supporting our craziness-- talk to you soon!
2020-12-0200 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 293 - How Plants Fight DiseaseFrom plant conservation to food security, we desperately need to understand how plants fight disease. As you can probably imagine, the world of plant-microbe interactions is vast and complicated but that's where people like Dr. Kevin Cox Jr come in. Currently a post-doc at the Danforth Plant Science Center, his work has him looking at disease-causing fungi at high resolutions. By understanding the genes involved in plant responses to fungal infection, Dr. Cox is helping paint a clearer picture of plant immune responses. Join us for a mind-blowing conversation about this work and his efforts to bring it to...
2020-11-2954 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 292 - Investigating the Black Market Trade in Dudleya farinosaPlant poaching is abhorrent and we can’t work towards a solution without a proper understanding of the motivations behind it. That's where people like Dr. Jared Margulies come in. In this episode we sit down to talk about what he learned through investigating the illicit trade is one of North Americas most stunning succulents, Dudleya farinosa. What Dr. Margulies uncovered was a complex economy driven by highly specialized collectors, rather than "housewives and hipsters." Join us for an in depth look at the nuances of this black market plant trade. This podcast was produced in part by Cathrine, Me...
2020-11-2255 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 291 - Tales from the Cliff: Preventing Brighamia ExtinctionFrom feral goats, pigs, and deer, to the extinction of it's suspected pollinator, the ʻŌlulu (Brighamia insignis) has a lot stacked against it. Yet, despite being extinct in the wild, the ʻŌlulu is surprisingly common in cultivation all thanks for a handful of seed collections made a few decades ago. Today we are joined by Conservation Biologist for the National Tropical Botanical Garden, Seana Walsh to talk about all of the work being done to make sure this rare Hawaiian lobelioid is not lost for good. Along the way you will hear about the surprising ecological mysteries surrounding this plan...
2020-11-1553 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 290 - The Chemical Symphony of Plant PerceptionPlant perception: few topics are the subject of more pseudoscience and misinformation than this one. Luckily there are people like Dr. Lauren Erland who exist to shine a scientific light on the topic. Dr. Erland studies, among other things, the role of plant growth regulators in plant perception and response to changes in their environment, specifically serotonin and melatonin. Join us as we take a deep dive into the chemically complex world of plant perception. This podcast was produced in part by Grif, Jules, Joan, Les, Marabeth, Ali, Margaret, Southside Plants, Robert, Keiko, Bryce, Brittany, Helen, Amanda, Mikey, Rhiannon...
2020-11-081h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 289 - The Personal Journey of GardeningWriter, naturalist, and gardener Dan Hinkley returns to the podcast to talk about his new book "Windcliff: A Story of People, Plants, and Gardens," which is a touchingly honest tale of his own journey in creating his own personal garden. Dan is unique in blending his own naturalist-brand of plant appreciation with sentiments of horticulture and design. Throughout we learn about just how personal and fulfilling the act of gardening can truly be, especially when the rest of the world seems to be baring down upon you. Join us as we gain insights into the gardening philosophy of one...
2020-11-011h 06
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 288 - Doin' Good by GrassesWhether we realize it or not, this planet and all life on it are influenced by grasses. Among the most important are grasses belonging to the tribe Andropogoneae. Members of this group include crops such as corn, sugarcane, and sorghum, as well as ecologically important species like big bluestem. Despite their importance, we know surprisingly little about these plants, especially as it related to conservation. Luckily there are people like Taylor AuBuchon, Senior Technician for the Kellogg Lab at Donald Danforth Plant Science Center. Taylor and her colleagues largely focus on understanding the genetics that have made these grasses...
2020-10-251h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 287 - Invasion MeltdownsInvasive species are second only to habitat destruction in causing loss of biodiversity on this planet. Moving one species to a habitat where it didn't evolve or even giving native species a new advantage can cause ripples that spread throughout the entire ecosystem. Returning to the podcast to talk about these issues is plant pathologist, Dr. Kristin Wickert. Join us and learn about the myriad ways invasive species affects the environments on which all life relies. This podcast was produced in part by Les, Marabeth, Ali, Margaret, Southside Plants, Robert, Keiko, Bryce, Brittany, Helen, Amanda, Mikey, Rhiannon, Michelle, Kate...
2020-10-181h 12
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 286 - Grappling With Plant ExtinctionsThis episode is all about one of the most difficult topics in natural history - extinction. Plants set the foundation for nearly all life on Earth and yet they receive a mere fraction of the attention and effort needed to conserve them. Recent estimates indicate that 40% of the world's plant species are threatened with extinction and that is a scary statistic. One of the biggest hurdles in the fight against plant extinction is figuring out which plants are most at risk. Thanks to my guest today, we now have a much better idea of plant extinctions in North America...
2020-10-111h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 285 - Eyes in the Sky: Plant Conservation's Aerial AssistantTreacherous topography can often serve as a safeguard for rare plant populations. Being difficult or even impossible to reach can protect plants from the myriad pressures that threaten them. Imagine what we could find tucked away among cliffs and ledges where most animals cannot venture. My gust today has managed to find a novel way of surveying plant communities in such habitats. Joining us is GIS Specialist and Drone Program Coordinator of the National Tropical Botanical Garden, Ben Nyberg. Ben and his colleagues have developed a drone program that is making great strides in endangered plant conservation in Hawai'i...
2020-10-0447 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 284 - Trees in a Changing ClimateClimates have always changed but thanks to human activity it is happening at an ever-increasing rate. For sessile organisms like trees, this often means either adapting in place or risk going extinct. However predicting the outcomes of climate change on life is extremely challenging and differs depending on what kinds of plants you're looking at and where you are studying them. This is where people like my guest come in. Angie Patterson is a PhD student at Columbia University and she is studying how climate change is affecting trees like the red oak (Quercus rubra) that are important components...
2020-09-271h 01
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 283 - The Cultural and Ecological Implications of the Salep Orchid TradeThis episode is dedicated to the trade of a culinary ingredient that involves multiple orchid species. Salep is derived from the tubers of many terrestrial orchids and no one really understands how modern demand for this ingredient is affecting their populations in the wild. Joining us to talk about this are PhD candidate Martha Charitonidou and Dr. John Halley from the University of Ioannina in Greece. Their lab is uncovering vital insights into how the growing demand from affluent countries for naturally sourced products like salep can begin to crumble centuries of traditional harvesting practices. This is an important...
2020-09-2051 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 282 - The Rosid RadiationWhen we think of biodiversity and evolution, the tropical regions of our planet are frequently touted as hotspots for speciation. Indeed, the tropics house more species than most other regions, however, that doesn't mean that temperate areas haven't contributed to the diversity of life on this planet. Recent work has revealed that one of the largest clades of flowering plants, the rosids, are evolving much faster in temperate areas than the tropics. Joining us to talk about this is Dr. Miao Sun, who along with a team of scientists, is uncovering surprising revelations about the evolution of this diverse...
2020-09-1347 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 281 - Sustainable Recreation & Plant ConservationThere are many ways to make hiking one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly activities on Earth, but building trails on rare and unique plant communities is not one of them. Sensitive plants and habitats can be destroyed in the blink of an eye by trampling, which is why any good trail system needs to put plant conservation at the forefront. This is exactly what we are talking about in this episode. Nestled in the northwestern corner of North Carolina are the Amphibolite Mountains. Their unique geology has resulted in a bewildering diversity of special and sensitive plant...
2020-09-061h 07
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 280 - At the Intersection of Conservation and HorticultureIn this episode we are joined by Conservation Horticulturist Emma Neigel of the Atlanta Botanical Garden to talk about the intersection of horticulture and conservation. When it comes to plant conservation, it isn't enough to just study why plants are rare, we must also learn what they need to grow and thrive. Being able to grown and propagate rare plants offers many species the hope of a brighter future. Join Emma and me as we discuss everything from growing rare milkweeds to finding new populations of endangered orchids in the wild and everything in between. This podcast was produced...
2020-08-301h 01
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 279 - A Pollinator Plant of the Year ProgramThere is a lot of information out there on which plants to choose for your garden. Often this information is geared towards a wide audience living in vastly different climate zones. As such, it can be extremely difficult to figure out what will work best for you. That is why I am excited to sit down for a conversation with Lauren Muller, the Conservation Outreach Coordinator for the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, to talk about their innovative Pollinator Plants of the Year Program. This program is centered on making regionally specific recommendations for gardeners to help improve the...
2020-08-2350 minTangent TuesdaysTheory Thursday #1 - Conspiracy Theories (with Rocky)Missing planes, underground tunnels and false credit. We talked about it all in the first episode of a new segment called Theory Thursday’s! These episodes will key in on all things creepy (which we love) and maybe.. sometimes.. we will have a guest on! Stay tuned for more! Talk to you soon!
2020-08-211h 38Tangent TuesdaysTangent #6 - Don’t Get Me Started (with Accents)!HEY! HI! HOW ARE YA!? This week we tried to play a game called “Don’t Get Me Started!” where you are given a topic and then you must angrily rant about said topic; HOWEVEAH, we put accents on it because it was more fun that way... Hope y’all enjoy it and get a little laugh out of it! Talk to you next week!!
2020-08-1952 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 278 - Glossopteris: Resloving a Mystery 299 Million Years in the MakingThe Glossopteris flora is one of the most important links that we have to the Permian Era. These trees dominated the supercontinent of Gondwana from around 299 to 230 million years ago and their fossilized remains have dazzled the human mind for centuries. Despite their popularity, Glossopteris mysteries abound. That is where scientists like Aviwe Matiwane come in. Aviwe is utilizing skills she picked up from modern day botany and applying them to the fossilized remains of Glossopteris to try and better understand their biodiversity. Along the way she is gaining insights into everything from biogeography to plant-insect interactions. You certainly...
2020-08-161h 03
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 277 - Pitcher Plant SymbiosesIn this episode we look at what's going on inside the pitchers of carnivorous pitcher plants. Besides functioning as organs for prey capture and digestion, these highly modified leaves also serve as miniature ecological communities that have a lot to teach us about symbioses and evolution. Joining us to talk about this Dr. Kadeem Gilbert who has spent the last few years of his life studying pitcher mutualists in the tropical pitcher plants pf the genus Nepenthes. Dr. Gilbert is uncovering so many incredible aspects about these carnivorous plants that few have ever considered before. Settle in for an...
2020-08-091h 02
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 276 - A Native Bee-nanza!With insects on the decline around the globe, the need for native bee understanding and appreciation has never been more apparent. While some native bees are super charismatic and well known,many more are cryptic and poorly understood. That is where people like author and naturalist Heather Holm come in. Heather is devoted to doing everything she can to bring native bees into the spotlight. From publishing native bee guides to giving talks and restoring habitat, Heather is a true champion for these incredible insects. Join us for a wonderful discussion about native bees and learn how each and...
2020-08-021h 08
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 275 - Saving Sonora: The Green DesertThe human population of the Sonoran Desert is growing quickly, developing the surrounding landscape at an alarming pace. At the same time, botanists are racing to understand the fate of this so called "green deserts flora." In this episode we learn what it takes to properly assess a regions flora for extinction risk and how that information is being used across borders to protect the botanical diversity that makes this landscape unique. Join me and ecologist/conservationist, Dr. Helen Rowe for a discussion about the mission of the IUCN SSC Sonoran Desert Plant Specialist Group and how numerous different...
2020-07-2644 minTangent TuesdaysTangent #5 - Serial Killers (pssst... this is your WARNING!)HOWDY FRIENDS!! WARNING! Hide your cereal... We are talking about some of the most prolific serial killers the US has seen and a couple that are out of these borders as well. There is talk of some disturbing topics in today's episode so beware! We will see y'all next week!
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2020-07-221h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 274 - Hollow Trees = HabitatMove over raccoons and squirrels, hollow trees have some additional residents to support. Joining us on this episode are Dr.'s Lary Reeves and Andrei Sourakov to talk to us about how hollow trees are proving to be great spots to find massive congregations of moths, mosquitoes, and many other arthropods. When you consider how many hollow trees are on the landscape, you begin to realize just how much habitat these trees can provide. This episode also stands as proof of the power of natural history observations. By taking the time to observe nature no matter where you are...
2020-07-1949 minTangent TuesdaysTangent #4 - What Are YOU Afraid of?In today’s episode, we discussed some phobias and talked about some fears that we personally experience!! Let us know what YOU are afraid of!! Talk to y’all later!!
2020-07-151h 04
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 273 - Revolution in the GardenThis episode we are joined by Colah B. Tawkin, host of the incredible Black in the Garden, a podcast that "resides at the intersection of Black Culture and horticulture." For Colah, gardening has been revolutionary in many ways. Join us as we sit down for an in depth conversation about her journey into gardening and podcasting and how that has revolutionized her connection to plants, to life, to the planet, to the community, and beyond. This podcast was produced in part by Tate, Steve, Kae, Carole, Mr. Keith Santner, Dana, Chloe, Aaron, Sara, Kenned, Vaibhav, Kendall, Christina, Brett, Jocelyn...
2020-07-121h 20Tangent TuesdaysTRAVELING Tangent #1 - Psychology and EntertainmentCome along with us in car, ACTUALLY MOVING on our first episode of Traveling Tangent! HOPEFULLY, one day, recording will be on our side and we will do this more often! Let’s talk again sometime!
2020-07-0743 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 272 - Restoring the American ChestnutThis episode is all about the work being done by The American Chestnut Foundation and their partners to save the American chestnut (Castanea dentata) from extinction. Ravaged by an invasive fungal pathogen, this tree went from a dominant species in our forest to a spattering of dwindling stump sprouts barely hanging on in the understories of eastern North American forests. Join me as I sit down with Director of Restoration, Sara Fitzsimmons, to talk about the amazing, multifaceted efforts being put forth to restore this native tree to its former glory. This episode was sponsored by The Great Courses...
2020-07-0551 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 270 - A Native Plant Based LifeThis episode is all about celebrating native plants both in the wild and in the garden. We are joined by environmentalist, author, and garden designer Lyndon Penner to talk about his life-long obsession with Canada's amazing diversity of native plants. From the mountains to the prairies, Lyndon is a lover of all things botanical. He began growing plants at the tender age of 3 and designed his first perennial border at 9 and hasn't stopped since. Lyndon not only designs native plant gardens, he also writes about them and has authored numerous books centered around gardening in regions with short growing...
2020-06-211h 02
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 269 - Cultivating PeaceOne cannot overstate the power of gardening to calm the mind, reinvigorate passion, and bring people together. Understanding and growing plants is one of life's greatest joys and that is exactly the sentiment our guest this week wants to share with the world. Joining us is Derek Haynes or as you may know him, The Crazy Botanist. Derek has been obsessed with plants and nature since he was a child and that passion has only grown over the years. Derek is a true botany nut, growing everything from luffa gourds to elderberries and pitcher plants. Derek is also a...
2020-06-1459 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 268 - How Small Flies Made A Lot Of OrchidsIn this episode, we are joined by PhD student Melissa Díaz-Morales and director of the Lankester Botanical Gardens Dr. Adam Karremans to look at how flies have managed to influence the evolution of the largest subtribe of orchids in the world - the pleurothallids. This remarkable group of orchids is home to over 5,000 unique species and presents some of the most stunning and complex floral morphology of the entire orchid family. They also undergo some serious chemical ecology that helps attract their fly pollinators. We also explore the difficulties in both studying and publishing pollination work and how t...
2020-06-0751 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 267 - Describing & Protecting Palm DiversityHistorically speaking, palm taxonomy has been a bit tricky. This is due in large part by the difficulty in collecting and preparing proper specimens. Thankfully, with the advent of affordable DNA technologies, botanists are gaining new insights into palm diversity that aren't possible based on morphology alone. My guest today is Dr. Andrew Henderson of the New York Botanical Garden who has dedicated his career to understanding palms of the world. Lately his work has taken him to Southeast Asia and especially Vietnam where he and his colleagues are unlocking wonderful insights into the world of palms. The data...
2020-05-3146 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 266 - After the Blast: The Ecological Recovery of Mount St. HelensIn May of 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted, creating a path of destruction for hundreds of miles. No one thought life would return to that stretch of mountain for decades but they were wrong. In only a few short weeks, plants began sprouting and fungi started fruiting. The ecology of Mount St. Helens has been full of surprises ever since and that is exactly the topic of this episode. Joining us is author Dr. Eric Wagner to talk about his new book "After the Blast: The Ecological Recovery of Mount St. Helens." Throughout the pages of this book, you will...
2020-05-2449 minTangent TuesdaysTangent #3 - MISSION: Birthday Bomb... wait, What the Plot?Hey friends!! Today is our best friends birthday! Come along side of us while we play a super fun card game called “What the Plot?” before birthday bombing our friends car! (Obviously we didn’t know what we’d title the episode during the recording but we figured it out.)
2020-05-201h 12
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 265 - Ancient Trees: Living on the EdgeWhat does it take to live many hundreds or even thousands of years? For trees, it often means growing in places like cliffs where few other things can. My guest today has studied ancient cliff dwelling trees from all over the world and has uncovered some of the oldest living forests on our planet in the process. Joining us is Dr. Doug Larson whose work demonstrates that, far from excluding life, extremely harsh habitats can serve as refugia for plants and all of the organisms they support. Join us for one of the most mind blowing scientific journeys I...
2020-05-171h 07
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 264 - The Longleaf Alliance Speaks for the TreesLongleaf pines once covered 90 million acres of southeastern North America. Today, human development has seen that number reduced down to 3 million acres. The decline in this tree has come at great cost to the ecosystems it once comprised. From the longleaf pine itself to one of the most biodiverse understory plant communities on the continent, these habitats are vital to ecosystem health. Luckily, organizations like The Longleaf Alliance are stepping up to return this tree to at least some of its former glory. Join President Carol Denhof and me for a conversation about how The Longleaf Alliance is realizing...
2020-05-1047 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 263 - Earthworm InvadersThis week we are joined by director of The University of Minnesota Center for Forest Ecology, Dr. Lee Frelich to discuss an invasive species problem that threatens plant diversity and ecosystem functioning wherever it occurs. Earthworms are very powerful ecosystem engineers. They alter the entire structure of the soil, affecting everything that grows there. Invasive worms are changing entire ecosystems from the bottom up and it is largely going on out of sight and out of mind. Join us for an enlightening discussion about this issue. This episode was produced in part by Sara, Kenned, Vaibhav, Kendall, Christina, Brett...
2020-05-0346 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 261 - On the Origin & History of Field GuidesThis week we take an even closer look at the world of field guides with science historian Dr. Sara Scharf. Field guides began as a tool for botanists to better understand the plants in their region but they have since grown to encompass all forms of life. Learn how some of the most iconic figures in the world of biology had a hand in refining field guides as a tool and even how the need for education following the French Revolution drove them to become readily accessible to the public. You will be surprised just how important the field...
2020-04-261h 07Tangent TuesdaysTangent #2 - Beaches and DegreesHEY AGAIN! In this episode, we somehow connect our love for the beach with our opinions on college and education! Can’t wait to hear from you and we will talk soon again!
2020-04-251h 35
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 261 - Talking About Field Guides With The Field GuidesToday we take a step back for a fun conversation about field guides. Field guides are wonderful tools that help us identify the species with which we share the world. In this episode we are joined by Bill and Steve, hosts of The Field Guides Podcast, a funny and educational show all about natural history. The thoughts expressed in this show are based on our experiences with field guides of all kinds and by no means reflect any objective truths. But I think this episode offers listeners a nice introduction to the ins and outs of buying and using...
2020-04-191h 11
Tangent TuesdaysTangent #1 - The PilotHI FRIENDS! In the first episode, we just wanted to explain the heart of our podcast as well as who we are and what we love! Hopefully y'all enjoy! Talk to you later!
2020-04-1442 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 260 - Hoya Hullabaloo!Hoyas are a group of vines that are gaining a lot of popularity among houseplant growers in recent years but what are these plants exactly? Where do they come from? What are they related to? How do we succeed in growing them in and around our homes? Our guest today has answers to all of these questions and more. Joining us is Hoya specialist Doug Chamberlain. Doug runs a blog and video series dedicated to his adventures in Hoya growing. To call Doug's hobby an obsession would be an understatement as he is all in when it comes to...
2020-04-1256 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 259 - Micropropagating Orchids at the Atlanta Botanical GardenWhat does it take to go from orchid seed to orchid adult? Today you are going to find out. Joining us from the Atlanta Botanical Garden is Micropropagation and Seed Bank Coordinator, Jason Ligon. Jason is in charge of propagating some of North America's rarest plants with the goal of returning them to the wild. As you will learn, orchids and other small-seeded plants require special techniques to ensure fer germination and growth but that doesn't deter Jason. He loves all of the learning that comes with new challenges. With the help of his colleagues, volunteers, and partners, Jason...
2020-04-0550 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 258 - What It Takes to Save PlantsFrom seed collection to restoring populations, this episode is all about what it takes to save rare plants from extinction. Joining us is Dr. Joyce Maschinski, Director of Plant Conservation for San Diego Zoo Global, and President and CEO of the Center for Plant Conservation to discuss how these two incredible organizations are at the forefront of plant conservation efforts. As you will hear, plant conservation is a collaborative effort involving many interesting and innovative approaches. The best part is, all of these resources are made available to anyone who wants to learn via the Center For Plant Conservation's...
2020-03-2945 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 257 - 'Cuz a Houseplant Party Don't StopToday we are joined by the one and only Jane Perrone, houseplant guru and host of the wonderful On the Ledge podcast. Houseplants are such a wonderful hobby to indulge in, especially in recent weeks, and Jane is dedicated to sharing her love and knowledge with anyone who wants to be a better houseplant grower. Jane and I sit down for a chat about topics ranging from her recent Hoya obsession and why she wants you to try growing plants from seed, to using nematodes to battle fungus gnats and why parenting might not be the best gardening metaphor...
2020-03-2255 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 256 - Spurge is the WordThe sandmat spurges probably do not factor into the daily lives of most people. Yet, we walk over them, we trample them, we pull them from our lawns and gardens with little regard to their incredible natural history. The spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) lays claim to many incredible plant species but today we take a closer look at one group in particular: the sandmat spurges in the section Anisophyllum. Joining in on the celebration is spurge fanatic Nathan Taylor, who is leading the charge on understanding these plants a lot better. He isn't doing it alone. With the input from...
2020-03-1541 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 255 - Wild Hydrangeas of the WorldThe name "Hydrangea" most often conjures up images of medium sized shrubs adorned with pom poms of bright blue or pink flowers. Our exposure to this incredible genus is often very limited. This is a shame because the world of Hydrangea is wonderfully diverse. Plant hunter, gardener, and author Dan Hinkley returns to the podcast for an in depth look at the amazing diversity of Hydrangea around the world. From deciduous stalwarts to tropical climbers, you may never look at the genus Hyndrangea the same way again. This episode was produced in part by Jocelyn, Kathleen, Ethan, Kaylee, Runaway...
2020-03-0855 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 254 - Native Plant TrustNative Plant Trust has one major goal in mind: conserving and promoting New England's native plants. Founded in 1900, Native Plant Trust is America's oldest plant conservation organization. Since then, it has gone through some name changes (Society for the Protection of Native Plants, New England Wild Flower Society) but its mission has remained the same. Join me as I sit down for a conversation with their Director of Horticulture, Uli Lorimer, to talk about his journey into growing and conserving plants, and how Native Plant Trust's mission is helping New England's botanical legacy be a major part of its...
2020-03-0150 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 253 - Earth's First ForestsThe Devonian Period was for plants what the Cambrian Period was for animals. Land plants really started to experiment with new forms of growth some 380 million years ago which led to the establishment of the first forests on Earth. My guest today is Dr. Chris Barry who was part of the team that recently discovered the oldest fossil evidence of forests. As you are going to hear, these forests were very different from the ones we know and love today. This episode was produced in part by Kathleen, Ethan, Kaylee, Runaway Goldfish, Ryan, Donna, Donica, Chris, Shamora, Alana, Laura...
2020-02-2451 min
What's Next God?32. Laura Pickard and Jenn ZetrouerBuy the couch
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My friends Laura Pickard and Jenn Zetrouer are back at the table again this month for a second cup of coffee.
We’re recapping some of our favorite moments from each of the conversations this month on our Celebrating Singles Series.
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Celebrating Singles Series
Ep.24 - Laura Pickard
Ep.25 - Kaylee Tuttle
Ep.26 - Shawn Campbell
Ep.27 - Jenn Zetrouer/Emily Wilkerson
Ep.28 - Carly Gerdau
Ep.29 - Blake Reynolds
Ep.30 - Allie...
2020-01-291h 16
Get Hooked On A Ground-Breaking Full Audiobook On Your Commute.California Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas by Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah M. Eden, Jennifer MoorePlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/300952to listen full audiobooks.
Title: California Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas
Series: #11 of A Timeless Romance Anthology
Author: Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah M. Eden, Jennifer Moore
Narrator: Carly Robins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 9 hours 35 minutes
Release date: August 8, 2017
Genres: Essays & Anthologies
Publisher's Summary:
Sun, sand, and a chance for love. There’s just something special about a romance in California, and this collection will bring you a much-needed beach escape.In the sweet novella Too Good to Be True by Heather B. Moore, Gwen uses her wedding pho...
2017-08-089h 35Grab the Top Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernCalifornia Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas by Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah M. Eden, Jennifer MoorePlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/300952to listen full audiobooks.
Title: California Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas
Series: #11 of A Timeless Romance Anthology
Author: Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah M. Eden, Jennifer Moore
Narrator: Carly Robins
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 9 hours 35 minutes
Release date: August 8, 2017
Genres: Modern
Publisher's Summary:
Sun, sand, and a chance for love. There’s just something special about a romance in California, and this collection will bring you a much-needed beach escape.In the sweet novella Too Good to Be True by Heather B. Moore, Gwen uses her wedding photography bus...
2017-08-089h 35
Grab the Top Full Audiobooks in Romance, ModernCalifornia Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas by Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah MPlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/300952 to listen full audiobooks. Title: California Dreamin' Collection: Six Contemporary Romance Novellas Series: #11 of A Timeless Romance Anthology Author: Shannon Guymon, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Heather B. Moore, Sarah M. Eden, Jennifer Moore Narrator: Carly Robins Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 9 hours 35 minutes Release date: August 8, 2017 Genres: Modern Publisher's Summary: Sun, sand, and a chance for love. There’s just something special about a romance in California, and this collection will bring you a much-needed beach escape.In the sweet novella Too Good to Be True by Heather B. Moore, Gwen uses her wedding pho...
2017-08-0803 min