Shows
Teach BIGEpisode 23 - Teach BIG at TEPSA (Part 4)✨ Big voices. Bold ideas. Texas leadership.In this special four-part Teach Big podcast series, host Randi Whitney takes you inside the TEPSA 2025 Summer Convention at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas. Across these episodes, you’ll hear from principals, assistant principals, counselors, and school leaders from all corners of the state as they share stories of encouragement, innovation, and motivation.From creative ways administrators are building stronger teacher teams, to powerful strategies that help students thrive, these conversations shine a light on the heart of Texas education leadership. Chan...
2025-10-0642 minTeach BIGEpisode 22 - Teach BIG at TEPSA (Part 3)✨ Big voices. Bold ideas. Texas leadership.In this special four-part Teach Big podcast series, host Randi Whitney takes you inside the TEPSA 2025 Summer Convention at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas. Across these episodes, you’ll hear from principals, assistant principals, counselors, and school leaders from all corners of the state as they share stories of encouragement, innovation, and motivation.From creative ways administrators are building stronger teacher teams, to powerful strategies that help students thrive, these conversations shine a light on the heart of Texas education leadership. Chan...
2025-10-0128 minTeach BIGEpisode 21 - Teach BIG at TEPSA (Part 2)✨ Big voices. Bold ideas. Texas leadership.In this special four-part Teach Big podcast series, host Randi Whitney takes you inside the TEPSA 2025 Summer Convention at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas. Across these episodes, you’ll hear from principals, assistant principals, counselors, and school leaders from all corners of the state as they share stories of encouragement, innovation, and motivation.From creative ways administrators are building stronger teacher teams, to powerful strategies that help students thrive, these conversations shine a light on the heart of Texas education leadership. Chan...
2025-09-2430 minTeach BIGEpisode 20 - Teach BIG at TEPSA (Part 1)✨ Big voices. Bold ideas. Texas leadership.In this special four-part Teach Big podcast series, host Randi Whitney takes you inside the TEPSA 2025 Summer Convention at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas. Across these episodes, you’ll hear from principals, assistant principals, counselors, and school leaders from all corners of the state as they share stories of encouragement, innovation, and motivation.From creative ways administrators are building stronger teacher teams, to powerful strategies that help students thrive, these conversations shine a light on the heart of Texas education leadership. Chan...
2025-09-1632 minTeach BIGEpisode 19 - Inspiring Educators for a New School Year (Part 2)Are you an educator searching for fresh ideas, proven strategies, and a renewed sense of inspiration for the school year ahead? The Teach BIG Podcast brings you stories from real classrooms and campuses that are turning challenges into triumphs.In this episode, we continue our discussion with Nelly Flores, Principal of Cavazos Elementary in Mission CISD, as well as several teachers from her campus as they share powerful stories of leadership, perseverance, and community. Under her guidance, Cavazos Elementary soared to an “A” campus rating—not because of a focus on test scores alone, but because of teache...
2025-09-1339 minTeach BIGEpisode 18 - Inspiring Educators for a New School Year (Part 1)Are you an educator searching for fresh ideas, proven strategies, and a renewed sense of inspiration for the school year ahead? The Teach BIG Podcast brings you stories from real classrooms and campuses that are turning challenges into triumphs.In this episode, we welcome Nelly Flores, Principal of Cavazos Elementary in Mission CISD, who shares powerful stories of leadership, perseverance, and community. Under her guidance, Cavazos Elementary soared to an “A” campus rating—not because of a focus on test scores alone, but because of teachers who teach with great craft, deep content knowledge, and inspiring leadership.L...
2025-09-0414 minTeach BIGEpisode 17 - Teach BIG Education Redefined in a Virtual World Part 3Live from the Virtual Frontlines: Real Teachers. Real Stories. Real Impact.What do you do when you're 100 miles away and your student is in danger?“The screen might separate us—but behind every camera, there's a heartbeat, a home, and a story you’ll never forget.”In this powerful third installment of the TVAH Virtual School Podcast, we’re flipping the script—with our first-ever live studio audience of passionate educators from across the Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville. These teachers aren’t just sharing lesson...
2025-08-0744 minTeach BIGEpisode 16 - Teach BIG Education Redefined in a Virtual World Part 2“Virtual education isn’t a backup plan—it’s a breakthrough.” In this eye-opening episode of Teach BIG: Education Redefined, we sit down for Part 2 with trailblazing virtual educators Julie Smith and Andrea Walker to explore the powerful impact of online learning in today’s world. These two inspiring guests pull back the curtain on what virtual school really looks like—from certified teachers and school counselors to interactive projects, small group learning, field trips, and even cap-and-gown graduations. They dispel the myths, reveal the surprising benefits, and share real stories of how virtual education is transforming...
2025-08-0131 minTeach BIGEpisode 15 - Teach BIG Education Redefined in a Virtual World Part 1“Virtual education isn’t a backup plan—it’s a breakthrough.” In this eye-opening episode of Teach BIG: Education Redefined, we sit down with trailblazing virtual educators Julie Smith and Andrea Walker to explore the powerful impact of online learning in today’s world. These two inspiring guests pull back the curtain on what virtual school really looks like—from certified teachers and school counselors to interactive projects, small group learning, field trips, and even cap-and-gown graduations. They dispel the myths, reveal the surprising benefits, and share real stories of how virtual education is transforming student success...
2025-07-2243 minTeach BIGEpisode 14 - Leveling Up Literacy – Inside the E-Gaming Revolution with Renner RomigThink video games are just a pastime? Think again.In this eye-opening episode of the Teach BIG podcast, we sit down with Renner Romig, a sharp and insightful high school junior who’s taking coursework in sports computer gaming. Renner opens the door to a world most parents and educators have never truly explored—a world where reading, writing, and vocabulary are not only alive and well but evolving in real time.From gamer tags to strategy forums, tournament scripts to immersive storylines, Renner explains how literacy is being rede...
2025-07-1455 minTeach BIGEpisode 13 - Behind the Power of Theatre in an ELAR Classroom with Rali RomigStep into the spotlight with Rali Romig, an insightful high school theater student, as she pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to read, write, and bring stories to life in the world of drama.In this episode, Rali shares how the theater classroom transforms words on a page into living, breathing settings and characters—giving students a chance to build confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills that last a lifetime.Parents and teachers alike will discover how theater is more than costumes and scripts; it’s a powe...
2025-07-1137 minTeach BIGEpisode 12 - Grit and Grace with Jill RomigIn this unforgettable episode of the Teach BIG Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Jill Romig — two-time Teacher of the Year and powerhouse Teach BIG consultant — to talk about what every educator faces but few openly discuss: the crummy moments.Jill shares her deeply personal and powerful story of professional development, walking us through one of her toughest training experiences and how it unexpectedly shaped her into the teacher, coach, and leader she is today. From moments of self-doubt to unstoppable breakthrough, Jill reminds us that growth doesn’t always feel good — but it alway...
2025-07-0153 minTeach BIGEpisode 11 - Building Brilliance: Inside the Mind of an Early Childhood Curriculum DirectorIn this inspiring episode of Teach BIG: Building Brilliance - Inside the Mind of an Early Childhood Curriculum Director, host Randi Whitney sits down with Danielle Dodson, the innovative Curriculum Coordinator at Strawberry Fields Preschool in Kemah, Texas. Together, they unpack what it truly means to expect BIG things from little people.Danielle shares how the preschool years are more than just cute crafts and circle time—they’re the most powerful cognitive window a child will ever experience. Did you know that children learn at a faster rate before the age of six than...
2025-06-2419 minTeach BIGEpisode 10 - Leading with Heart – Part Two - An Interview with Retired Associate Superintendent Mike FowlerContinuing the Conversation with Retired Associate Superintendent Mike FowlerIn Part Two of the Leading with Heart series on the Teach BIG Podcast, Randi Whitney continues her emotional and eye-opening conversation with retired Associate Superintendent Mike Fowler, digging even deeper into the shifting landscape of school leadership—and what it truly means to lead with both courage and compassion.This episode explores the evolution of discipline, teacher autonomy, parental involvement, and student connection from the 1980s and 1990s to the present day. Mike reflects on how relationships once built fa...
2025-06-1838 minTeach BIGEpisode 9 - Real Learning Doesn’t Wait for KindergartenGuests: Rylie Saylor & Danielle DodsonFeatured Institution: Strawberry Fields Early Childhood Preschool, Kemah, TXPodcast Description:What does it take to build a preschool curriculum that isn’t just play-based—but purpose-driven? In this insightful episode of Teach BIG: Unlocking the Mysteries of a Preschool Curriculum, Randi Whitney sits down with Rylie Saylor, Principal, and Danielle Dodson, Curriculum Coordinator of Strawberry Fields Preschool in Kemah, Texas—a school redefining early childhood education with intention, innovation, and heart.Together, they unpack what goes into creating a high-i...
2025-06-0931 minTeach BIGEpisode 8 - Leading with Heart – Part One - An Interview with Retired Associate Superintendent Mike FowlerIn this powerful and heartfelt episode of the Teach BIG Podcast, Randi Whitney sits down with retired Associate Superintendent Mike Fowler—a seasoned educator and former principal whose leadership journey began in the 1980s. As part one of our Leading with Heart series, this episode offers a rare and intimate look into the soul of school leadership across generations.Listeners will be drawn into real stories from the front office and the front lines, as Mike shares what it meant to be a principal in a time before cell phones, emails, and standardized testing pr...
2025-06-0431 minTeach BIGEpisode 7 - Innovation, Intervention & Impact – Inside the Virtual Future of EducationWhat if education could save lives, close gaps, and reinvent engagement—all in a single virtual space? In this must-hear episode of Teach BIG: An Educational Revolution, Randi Whitney sits down with returning guests Kyla Pickrell and Sarah Owens of Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville to reveal how their team is transforming student learning and wellness in bold, innovative ways. From AI-monitored mental health support to avatar-led field trips, this is not the future—it’s happening now.Listeners will discover the powerful impact of the K12 Zone, a digital environment where students connect, create...
2025-05-2742 minTeach BIGEpisode 6 - Strawberry Fields Preschool Principal Interview (Part 2)When the Walls Speak and the Little Voices AnswerIn this inspiring conclusion of our two-part series, Randi Whitney and Rylie Saylor dive deeper into how the Teach BIG philosophy comes alive every day inside Strawberry Fields Preschool. From intentional classroom language to the power of purposeful posters, we explore how even the youngest learners are absorbing content, experiencing culture, and witnessing craft in action. Rylie shares how her teachers lead with heart, how parents become partners, and how a preschool can feel more like a mission than a model.
2025-05-1922 minTeach BIGEpisode 5 - Strawberry Fields Preschool Principal Interview (Part 1)What if the Teach BIG philosophy wasn’t just for big kids—but for the tiniest learners, too?In this powerful two-part series, Randi Whitney sits down with Rylie Saylor, principal of Strawberry Fields Preschool, to explore how the heart of Teach BIG beats just as loudly in early childhood education. In Part 1, we dive into how the pillars of content, craft, and culture are shaping not just preschool instruction—but parent partnerships, teacher confidence, and the daily joy of learning. You’ll hear real stories, practical insights, and a vision of what’s possible when even the smalle...
2025-05-1228 minTeach BIGEpisode 4 - Posters to PassionThe posters are talking—but are we living what they say?Welcome to the Posters to Passion episode, where we challenge educators to move beyond decorative walls and into classrooms filled with meaning, connection, and purpose. Based on the book by Randi Whitney, (Posters to Passion) this podcast explores how the words we hang become the promises we keep. We’ll uncover how to use Everyday, Educational, Encouraging, and Emergency posters to enhance academics, fuel motivation, and create classrooms that speak volumes—even when we’re silent.This isn’t about classroom décor.T...
2025-05-0617 minTeach BIGEpisode 3 - Beyond the ScriptSome teachers follow the script. The great ones go beyond it.Welcome to the Beyond the Script podcast—where we stop delivering lessons and start delivering impact. Based on the transformative book (Beyond the Script) by Randi Whitney, this podcast is your guide to mastering the craft of teaching, one intentional moment at a time. Each episode dives into the rhythm, presence, pacing, and voice behind truly great instruction. Whether you're teaching from a scripted curriculum or crafting your own, this is where passion meets practice—and where educators learn to teach with...
2025-04-2941 minTeach BIGEpisode 2 - Full Circle of Language ArtsIn Episode Two of the Teach BIG Podcast, host Randi Whitney brings the first pillar of the Teach BIG philosophy—Content—to life, inviting teachers to go beyond surface-level understanding and step into true content expertise. This episode introduces the Full Circle of Language Arts, a comprehensive and research-rooted framework that helps educators understand what to teach, how each element is connected, and why it matters. Randi dives deep into the first four habits of the circle—phonics, grammar, vocabulary, and fluency—and shows how these are not stand-alone concepts, but deeply interconnected habits that, when taught systematically, build confiden...
2025-04-2128 minTeach BIGTeach BIG: Episode 1 – “Start Here. Start BIG.”Welcome to the very first episode of the Teach BIG Podcast—where passion meets purpose and real conversations ignite real hope in education. In this foundational launch, host Randi Whitney, award-winning educator, author, and creator of the Teach BIG movement, pulls back the curtain on what it trulymeans to teach with intention, impact, and inspiration.This isn’t just another education podcast. Teach BIG is a premiere space for bold ideas, breakthrough techniques, and brilliant minds who believe that teaching is more than a job—it’s a craft, a calling, and a catalyst for tran...
2025-04-0139 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 506 - The Digital Future of HerbariaThe herbarium world is a fascinating one. These botanical repositories are goldmines of data and help us understand the present by looking at the past. But what kind of future questions can herbaria help solve? Experts say the opportunities are endless, but we will need new technologies to take full advantage. Join me and Curator and Director of the Herbarium at Missouri Botanical Garden, Dr. Jordan Teisher, as we look at how new technologies are helping scientists look at herbarium collections in entirely new ways! This episode was produced in part by Linda, Alana, Sigma, Max, Richard, Maia, Rens...
2024-12-2900 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 505 - Leave the Dang Leaves!Leave the leaves! It is a phrase you hear a lot these days, but why is it so important to keep leaves and other plant debris on your landscape? These are the questions that drive Dr. Max Ferlato. Leaf litter and other plant debris provides vitally important habitat for myriad organisms including species important for pollination and pest control. Moreover, a little bit of leaf litter can go a long way, especially in urban environments. Join me and Dr. Ferlato as we look at the ecological importance of leaving the leaves! This episode was produced in part by Alana...
2024-12-2248 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 504 - The Genetic Mysteries of Creosote BushWhat is a species? On the surface, this seems like an easy question to answer. Get a bunch of biologists in the room together and you will quickly see it can be a bit of a loaded question. Questions like this are what drive scientists like Dr. Robert Laport. By looking at genome duplication events in plants like creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), he and his lab are curious how vast differences in genome numbers affect a species interaction with the environment, its pollinators, and even neighboring individuals of that species. Join us for a fun dive into the world...
2024-12-1559 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 503 - Pollen SpecializationBees run the gamut from generalists to specialists. Whereas the generalists visit a variety of plants for the resources they need, many specialists exist on a single species. Such is the case for at least 20 different bees living in Southwestern North America who specialize on the pollen of the creosote bush (Larrea tridentata). In geologic terms, creosote is a relative newcomer to the Southwest and trying to understand how so many bee species have come to specialize on its pollen and how differences in flowering phenology across its range affect their lifecycle has been a mainstay of Dr. Bob...
2024-12-0800 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 502 - Unearthing the Mysteries of Underground Storage OrgansTubers, corms, taproots, bulbs... There are many different kinds of underground storage organs in the plant world. Moreover, they form from many different kinds of plant tissues. This begs the question, why are there so many variations on the theme of energy storage? Join me and Dr. Carrie Tribble as we explore phylogenetic and trait-based approaches to understanding the evolution and development in underground storage organs in the genus Bomarea. This episode was produced in part by Sigma, Max, Richard, Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK...
2024-12-0100 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 501 - Conservation of Crop Wild RelativesDomestication is a spectrum, especially for botanical crops. Regardless of where a plant is on that spectrum, it nevertheless has a wild origin. Understanding those origins can not only help us understand the plants better, but also our history as a species as well as open the door to future possibilities. Sadly, many of the wild relatives of crops are both poorly understood and in desperate need of conservation. Join me and Dr. Colin Khoury as we explore what it means to study and conserve crop wild relatives. This episode was produced in part by Sigma, Robert, Thomas, Valerie...
2024-11-2459 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 500 - 500?!It is hard to believe, but you are about to listen to the 500th episode of the In Defense of Plants Podcast. So much has happened over the nearly 10 years this podcast has been running, and none of it would be what it is today without YOU, the listener. So, in celebration of the big 5 0 0, the wonderful Sara Johnson turns the tables and sits down to ask Matt some questions about what it is like to do 500 episodes. This episode was produced in part by Sigma, Max, Richard, Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy...
2024-11-1731 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 499 - Aspen & Forest HealthAspen (Populus tremuloides) are synonymous with many habitats throughout North America. This tree is a species of superlatives, but its grandeur doesn't mean it is immune to threats. In fact, in many areas of its range, aspen is in decline. Join me and Dr. Connor Crouch as we explore what he and his colleagues are learning about aspen health and how that can be used to improve forest health into the future. This episode was produced in part by Max, Richard, Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung...
2024-11-1048 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 498 - Planting a Future for Ecuadorian BiodiversityProtecting and restoring biodiversity in a place as biodiverse as Ecuador is no small task. You have to work hard and collaborate and that is exactly what the folks at Jocotoco Conservation Foundation. From protecting land and engaging communities, to research and restoration, their multifaceted efforts stand as a glorious example that conservation success stories are possible. Join me and Conservationist José León as we discuss all this and more! This episode was produced in part by This episode was produced in part by Max, Richard, Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Ni...
2024-11-0343 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 497 - Understanding the Bewildering Diversity of Plant/Pollinator InteractionsOne cannot overemphasize the importance of plant/pollinator interactions. The world as we know it would not exist without these complex components of ecology. Getting good data, and more importantly, making those data useful is important in conserving and restoring plants and their pollinators. Join my and Dr. Chris Cosma of Conservation Biology Institute as we explore how he and his colleagues are working to bring plant/pollinator interactions to the forefront. This episode was produced in part by This episode was produced in part by Max, Richard, Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy...
2024-10-2752 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 496 - Tree Rings RevisitedCounting the rings of a tree can be so much fun. In the temperate zone, each ring marks a year in that tree's life. However, if you know what to look for, tree rings can tell you so much more. Dr. Valerie Trouet has made a career out of counting and measuring tree rings. Tree rings offer a surprisingly detailed window back in time and allows scientists like Dr. Trouet to understand everything from fire regimes to climate conditions. Even beyond that, tree rings can provide valuable insights into human history. Insights like this are the subject of Dr...
2024-10-2043 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 495 - Pack Rats & Paleoclimates RevisitedNovel approaches are always fun. Nowhere is this more apparent than in today's podcast. We revisit a conversation with Dr. Camille Holmgren from SUNY Buffalo State about her research reconstructing ancient desert climates using pack rat middens. Join us for a fun and interesting discussion that will take you back thousands of years in the past. This episode was produced in part by Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily...
2024-10-1331 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 494 - The Botanical Mysteries of the Mazon Creek FormationThe Mazon Creek Fossil Formation is famous the world over for the exquisite preservation of soft tissues in animals. These rocks provide pristine snapshots of everything from extinct worms and jellyfish to sharks and even the mysterious Tully Monster. For all that these fossils have taught us about the animals of this long extinct ecosystem, we know far less about the plants that supported this diverse ecology. Join me and Dr. Mike D'Antonio as we learn how he and his colleagues are using sophisticated technologies to shine a light on paleobotanical mysteries hundreds of millions of years in the...
2024-10-0649 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 493 - Being Friendly to Bees"Benefitting pollinators" is a phrase that gets used a lot, especially in gardening circles. While most of us will agree with the sentiment, what does it mean in practice? How does one "benefit" pollinators in their community? There are a lot of great ways to do this, especially when it comes to native plants, but finding good, digestible information can be overwhelming. Thankfully organizations like Pollinator Partnership make learning how to help pollinators much easier. Join me and Bee Friendly Gardening Coordinator Sara Wittenberg as we discuss all the great resources available for those of you looking to be...
2024-09-2951 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 492 - Hope in Wetland RestorationRestoring healthy wetlands isn't an easy task. Often times, altered hydrologic cycles means wetlands no long act like they once did. Nevertheless, the many ecological and cultural benefits of functioning wetlands means that wetland restoration is certainly worth the time, money, and effort. Join me and Dr. Gary Sullivan of The Wetlands Initiative as we look at how data, art, and will power combine to provide hope for the future of wetlands. This episode was produced in part by Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, H...
2024-09-2259 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 491 - Plants & Wetland RestorationHealthy wetlands are vital to maintaining biodiversity and a healthy way of life for us. Sadly, we haven't always treated wetlands like the essential habitats that they are. While protecting natural wetlands is a must, we also need to understand how to restore them and plants play a major role in such efforts. Join me and Katie Kucera of The Wetlands Initiative as we take a botanical look at what it takes to restore and manage wetlands in human-dominated environments. This episode was produced in part by Maia, Rens, David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon...
2024-09-1553 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 490 - Pinesap: A Parasitic MysteryPinesap (Monotropa hypopitys) produces no leaves nor any chlorophyl. It “eats” fungi and can be found growing in many areas around the globe. It flowers in spring, fall, and summer and noby really knows if it is a single species or many. Despite its uniqueness, relatively little scientific attention has been paid to this little parasitic plant. Join me and Bill Michalek of The Field Guides Podcast scratch the surface of pinesap natural history and discuss what the many mysteries they discuss in their recent episode on this enigmatic parasitic plant. This episode was produced in part by Maia, Rens...
2024-09-0857 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 489 - Protecting Peak Plants RevisitedThe Adirondack Mountains are home to a remarkable diversity of plant species. Situated in northern New York, these mountains are harsh enough that they foster a thriving alpine community. Despite their ability to handle some of the worst weather conditions, alpine plants can be quite sensitive to human traffic. With more and more people flocking to these mountains every year, concern was growing that the alpine ecosystem was going to be trampled right off the mountain tops. Luckily the Summit Steward Program was put into place to protect and hopefully restore some of what has been lost. We revisit...
2024-09-0146 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 488 - An Interesting Case of VariegationVariegation among leaves is a fascinating phenomenon. Though plant breeders have accentuated this trait in a variety of cultivated plants, variegation does occur naturally as well. Its function isn't well understood for most species either. Such is the case for two species of wild ginger in the genus Hexastylis. Join me and Dr. Cierra Sullivan as we explore variegation in Hexastylis heterophylla and H. shuttleworthii. This episode was produced in part by David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly...
2024-08-251h 02
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 487 - Fossil Seeds & Past Plant DiversityFossils offer some of the best evidence of how diverse various branches of the tree of life once were. They help us understand speciation and extinction as well as biogeography. Dr. Steve Manchester has spent much of his career using fossilized seeds to understand the ancient histories of flowering plants such as the walnut family (Juglandaceae). Join us as we explore the ins and outs of a career looking at plant fossils and learn what kinds of stories they can tell. This episode was produced in part by David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick...
2024-08-1853 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 486 - Sedge Diversity Gone WildSedges are a complex group of plants in the family Cyperaceae. Within this family lies the genus Carex, which boasts ~2000 species found in all kinds of habitats. From specialists to generalists, there seems to be no lifestyle the sedges have not experimented with. But how did all this sedge diversity come to be? That is the question Dr. Andrew Hipp and his colleagues are trying to answer. Join us as we explore the wonders of sedge diversity. This episode was produced in part by David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura...
2024-08-1154 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 485 - Paleo GrapesThe grape family (Vitaceae) is known and appreciated the world over, largely for their culinary value. Ecologically speaking, they are very important plants as well. However, we know very little about their origin, evolution, and rates of extinction. Thanks to some lucky paleobotanical finds, that story has become a bit clearer in recent times. Join me and Paleobotanist Dr. Fabiany Herrera as we explore 20 years of fossil hunting and research and learn what it can teach us about the grapes! This episode was produced in part by David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul...
2024-08-041h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 484 - From Dune to Desert: Adventures in Plant ConservationPlant conservation isn't easy work, but it is vital to maintaining ecosystem health. Nowhere is this more apparent than in extreme environments like beach dunes and deserts. Join me and plant conservationist Emily Guinan as we explore some of her adventures in plant conservation. This episode was produced in part by David, Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin, Keena, Robin, Peter, Whitney...
2024-07-2843 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 483 - When Palms Grew in Wyoming RevisitedJoin Dr. Sarah Allen and me as we journey back in time to the Eocene. Earth was a very different planet some 49 million years ago. Though we may recognize some Eocene flora, the combination of various plant lineages would be enough to make your head spin. Earth was experiencing a warming period and the plants had responded accordingly. Tropical species like palms were thriving in places like Wyoming and giant relatives of the redwoods covered much of North America and Asia. What Dr. Allen and her colleagues are learning about Eocene plant communities is not only interesting in its...
2024-07-2148 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 482 - Walnuts Above the Arctic Circle?The High Arctic is not a place you go looking for forests today. It is extremely harsh, cold, and nearly void of most forms of plant life. However, that has not always been the case. The Eocene Epoch was a period where Earth was much hotter than it is today and forests flourished at the poles. This is also when much of the flora we know and love today was just getting its start. Join me and Dr. Jim Basinger as we explore what some incredibly rare fossil deposits are teaching us about forests above the Arctic Circle. This e...
2024-07-1454 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 481 - Borderlands Restoration in ActionDeserts are difficult places for any organism to survive, let alone plants. Despite the challenges, rich a unique floras have evolved in deserts all over the world which support myriad other forms of life. Restoring these communities in human-disturbed areas is critical in solving so many ecological and cultural issues and that is exactly what we are discussing in this episode. Join me and Perin McNelis, Native Plant Program Manager for Borderlands Restoration Network as we explore the ups and downs of plant restoration in arid ecosystems. This episode was produced in part by Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin...
2024-07-071h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 480 - Understanding Bark BeetlesBark beetles may be small, but they can have major impacts on forests around the globe. It may be easy to think of these insects as always a bad thing, but what if they aren't? Simple stories rarely apply in ecology and nowhere is that more apparent than in the work of scientists like Dr. Seth Davis. Join is as we take dive into the complex relationships between bark beetles, trees, and forest ecology. This episode was produced in part by Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, K...
2024-06-3050 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 479 - Insights into Nightshade DefensesPlants cannot run away from the herbivores that eat them, therefore plants have evolved numerous strategies to defend themselves from being consumed. Plant defenses are as varied as the plant kingdom and the ways in which they operate will blow your mind. We are joined by Dr. Rupesh Kariyat who studies plant defenses in a variety of nightshade relatives including the tomato. Tune in as we discuss how these plants defend against herbivory and learn how human activities such as mowing may have unintended consequences for some plant species. This episode was produced in part by Robert, Thomas, Valerie...
2024-06-231h 08
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 478 - Milkweed Defense De-EscalationPlant defense compounds are great for the plants that produce them as they can ward off herbivore attacks. But what happens when a group of specialists evolves a way to utilize said compounds? Such is the case for milkweeds (Apocynaceae) and milkweed butterflies (Danaina). A long evolutionary history together kicked off an evolutionary arms race driven by chemical ecology that is turning into a case of chemical de-escalation for many plants within this family. Join me and Dr. Tanya Livshultz as we explore the links between phylogeny, herbivory, and milkweed diversity. This episode was produced in part by Robert...
2024-06-161h 01
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 477 - Juncus, What a Rush!Join Chief Botanist for NatureServe Wes Knapp and me as we take a deep dive into an all-too-often overlooked group of plants - the rushes (genus Juncus). Rushes are fascinating and beautiful plants when you get to know them, and the genus has a lot of secrets waiting to be revealed. From their unique morphological characters to what it takes to describe a new species, who better to talk to than one of North America's rush experts. This episode was produced in part by Robert, Thomas, Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung...
2024-06-0953 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 476 - Ashes, Roses, and the Great Southern BroodConservation Biologist Sara Johnson returns to the podcast to talk about some of the botanical rabbit holes we have been exploring in recent weeks. We discuss ash (Fraxinus spp.) and rose (Rosa spp.) diversity and wax poetic about our time experiencing the majesty of the Great Southern Brood of periodical cicadas. This episode was produced in part by Valerie, Joan, Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin...
2024-06-0229 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 475 - Island Restoration Needs PlantsIslands are hotbeds for unique biodiversity. Strange and unique island plants form the foundation of strange and unique ecosystems. Sadly, the human hand has not been kind to Earth's island ecosystems, especially in recent times. The introduction of invasive species like rats, cats, and goats have brought many islands to the brink of collapse and that is why organizations like Island Conservation exist. Join me and Head of Innovation David Will as we discuss what he and his colleagues are doing to save some of the world's unique island biodiversity and learn what an important role plants play in...
2024-05-2647 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 474 - Untangling Cryptic DiversitySometimes the differences between species are vast (e.g., a maple and an oak) but other times they are subtle to the point of requiring a trained eye and essentially learning a new language. So-called cryptic species are extremely challenging to understand, but that is why spending time in the field can be so rewarding. Moreover, to understand cryptic species is to better understand biodiversity on Earth. Join me and botanist Brett Budach as we explore four genera (Lupinus, Xyris, Dichanthelium, and Andropogon) full of cryptic diversity and learn why he is so up for the challenges they present...
2024-05-1958 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 473 - Root Evolution RevisitedThere is no denying that roots are one of the most important organs on a plant. However, unless its an epiphyte, root activity takes place underground, largely out of site and out of mind. This has not stopped my guest today from trying to understand the origin and evolution of these amazing structures. We revisit a conversation with plant evolutionary biologist Dr. Sandy Hetherington whose work spans hundreds of millions of years of root history. Join us as we explore the early days of root evolution and learn how things like fungal symbionts and a lack of organic matter...
2024-05-1239 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 472 - Snorkelwort & Friends are X-Treme!Any organism that ephemeral gravel puddles home must be ready to deal with extremes. That is what makes snorkelwort (Gratiola amphiantha) and its aquatic neighbors so darn cool. It's what also makes it so very rare. Join me and Anna Wyngaarden as we take a deep dive into how she is trying to solve some of the many mysteries surrounding how plants like snorkelwort, mat-forming quillwort (Isoetes tegetiformans), and black-spored quillwort (I. melanospora) eke out a living in tiny granite pools. This episode was produced in part by Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung...
2024-05-0553 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 471 - Chasing Rare OaksBoynton/Alabama sandstone (Quercus boyntonii) and Georgia oaks (Q. georgiana) are among the rarest oaks in North America and yet we know so little about them. This paucity of knowledge can make conservation difficult, but that doesn't stop people like Patrick Thompson from trying. Join us as we discuss the multifaceted efforts aimed at keeping these trees from going extinct. This episode was produced in part by Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, K...
2024-04-2844 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 470 - Rethinking Water LettuceWater lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) has long been maligned for its invasive tendencies. This floating aquatic aroid grows fast and responds well to poor water quality, and because of this, states like Florida spend lots of time and money on trying to eradicate it. However, a combination of fossil end recent genetic evidence suggests that we should rethink our approach to water lettuce in Florida. Join me and Dr. Jason Evans as we discuss how data tell a different story that suggests at least some lineages of water lettuce are native after all and how that can open new doors...
2024-04-2151 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 469 - Blue Butterworts & FriendsThe Southeast is one of North America's biodiversity hotspots. Any trip through this region will be rewarded with lots of botanical splendor if you know where to look. Join Conservation Biologist Sara Johnson and me as we reminisce about a recent botanical excursion and learn about a fraction of the botanical diversity we met along the way. This episode was produced in part by Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan...
2024-04-1442 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 468 - Plants, Structure, and HabitatI have said it before, and I will say it again: plants ARE habitat. Nowhere is this fact more apparent than in the field of wildlife ecology. From food to shelter, one simply can't understand the innerworkings of nature without understanding plants. Join me and Wildlife Ecologist Dr. Chris Moorman as we look at why plants are so important to conservation efforts. This episode was produced in part by Mohsin Kazmi Photography, Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo...
2024-04-0741 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 467 - Roots & the Struggle for NutrientsCompetition for nutrients is a major driver of plant evolution, especially in nutrient-poor soils. As such, plants have evolved myriad ways of getting a "root up" on the competition. Dr. Jim Dalling joins us to discuss two recent discoveries related to two species with distinct and incredible root adaptations aimed at maximizing nutrient capture in highly competitive tropical ecosystems. This episode was produced in part by Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom...
2024-03-3155 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 466 - Fire in the MountainsThe Appalachian region may not readily seem like a fire-prone region, but parts of it certainly are. Fire can be an important tool in sustaining biodiversity, but modern understanding of its role is limited. That is why people like Dr. Don Hagan study the effects of prescribed fire in the Appalachian Mountains and beyond. Join me and Dr. Hagan as we explore fire as a tool for ecosystem restoration and find our just how much we still have to learn. This episode was produced in part by Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin...
2024-03-2448 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 465 - Studying Ancient WildfiresWildfires are familiar to those living on Earth today, but what about in the past? How does one go about studying ancient wildfires through deep time? Some of the answers lie in coal deposits. Join me and Dr. Ian Glasspool as we explore how he studies wildfire events dating back hundreds of millions of years and marvel at the amazing stories his data are able to tell! This episode was produced in part by Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine...
2024-03-1752 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 464 - Back from the BrinkGood news is hard to come by in the world of plant conservation, but it is out there! Take, for instance, some recent examples on Santa Cruz Island in which the recovery of a handful of endangered plants, including island bedstraw (Galium buxifolium) and Santa Cruz Island Dudleya (Dudleya nesiotica), has been so successful, they have been delisted. That doesn't mean conservationists no longer have to worry. Join me and John Knapp from The Nature Conservancy as we explore the ins and outs of plant conservation on Santa Cruz island and what it is going to take to keep...
2024-03-1153 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 463 - Digitizing an Extinct TreeHow does one breath life into an extinct tree only known from fossils? There are a lot of answers to this question, but my guest today decided to go digital. Tim Stonesifer is the Assistant Director for Media Technology at Colby College and the person responsible for creating the 3D reconstruction of Sanfordiacaulis densifolia that was discovered by Dr. Gastaldo and colleagues (Ep. 462). Join us as we explore his process and what it was like to take a dive into paleobotanical reconstructions. This episode was produced in part by Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen...
2024-03-0338 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 462 - Resurrecting an Ancient Toilet Brush TreeFossil hunting is like playing the lottery, your odds of hitting big are infinitesimal, but it can happen. Such was the case for Dr. Bob Gastaldo and colleagues when they unearthed the remains of Sanfordiacaulis densifolia, an extinct tree from the Carboniferous Period unlike anything we have ever seen. Join me and Dr. Gastaldo as we take a deep dive into why this tree is so strange and what it can tell us about an ancient ecology. This episode was produced in part by Cathy, Simon, Nick, Paul, Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon...
2024-02-2555 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 461 - Litter Trappers RevisitedLitter trapping plants don't worry about soil, they make their own! Because so many species in the tropics grow either epiphytically or in nutrient poor soil, some of them have turned to alternative solutions. Their anatomy is such that they collect everything from dead leaves to bird droppings. A diverse community of soil microbes and invertebrates can then go to work to create nutrient rich humus. What's more, litter trapping abilities can be found in plants as distantly related as ferns and orchids! Join me as we revisit an interesting discussion with Dr. Scott Zona about his work finding...
2024-02-1842 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 460 - Floral Chemistry RevisitedFor Dr. Rob Raguso, the phrase "stop and smell the roses" takes on a whole new meaning. Dr. Raguso studies the intricate world of floral chemistry. You are undoubtedly familiar with some of the wonderful odors flowers produce but such tantalizing smells are only the beginning. The world of floral chemistry is quite remarkable and the function of the myriad substances they produce go much deeper than simply pollination. We revisit a conversation that will put a whole new spin on your appreciation of flowering plants. This episode was produced in part by Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen...
2024-02-111h 07
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 459 - Pigments & Plant StressPlant pigments certainly catch the eyes of many organisms, but they serve many important functions beyond simple attraction. For instance, plant pigments can play a huge role in managing stressors like heat, sunlight, and more. Join me and Dr. Niky Hughes as we explore one of the most abundant and important types of plant pigments - anthocyanins - and learn how they not only vary in appearance but also in functional benefit. This episode was produced in part by Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy...
2024-02-0440 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 458 - Plant StressPlant stress starts at the molecular level but can influence entire ecosystems. That is why questions about drought, heat, and climate change fuel Dr. Lou Santiago's research. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of studying plant stress in different ecosystems. This episode was produced in part by Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin, Keena, Robin, Peter, Whitney, Kenned, Margaret, Daniel, Karen, David, Earl, Jocelyn, Gary, Krysta, Elizabeth, Southern California Carnivorous...
2024-01-2852 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 457 - The Wild World of Wet PlantsPlants obviously need water to survive, but how do they interact with water in a more physical sense? How plants like trees capture and distribute precipitation can have massive consequences for ecosystem and societal processes. From soil formation to stormwater management, understanding wet plants is very important. Join me and Dr. John Van Stan as we explore how his lab is tackling the complex dynamics of wet plants and learn how varied disciplines play a role in such investigations. This episode was produced in part by Charis, EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will...
2024-01-211h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 456 - Cattail Invasion RevisitedWhat wetland scene would be complete without a few cattails? The genus Typha is synonymous with wetlands yet as you will hear in this episode, we know so little about them. Joining us is Dr. Pam Geddes from Northeastern Illinois University to talk to us about her work on cattail invasion ecology. What started as a question about ecosystem function and monocultures has morphed into an exploration that involves asking questions like "how do we define a species?" Settle in and learn as we revisit the wild world of cattails. This episode was produced in part by EJ, Laura...
2024-01-1456 min
The Soul-ish Podcast#141 KNOW YOUR PURPOSE & HOW TO LIVE IT W/RANDI FARGENIn this episode Randi takes us through a tool called Culture Index, that not only guides you to find your purpose but how to live, work, and experience it! Whether you manage people or are interested in learning more about yourself… Randi’s work helps us to better understand how to first align with our purpose, and second how to communicate, manage and motivate in ways that work for us and the people we work with.
More about Randi:
Randi Fargen is a Culture Index Executive Advisor and business owner whose passion is a...
2024-01-1048 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 455 - The Many Mysteries of Seed DormancyWe take seeds for granted, yet still have much to learn about how they work. What factors play in to seed dormancy? How long can some seeds remain dormant? What cues are required to break dormancy? All these questions and more drive Dr. Grace Fleming's research. Join us as we explore how molecular processes involving mRNA play a role in the mysterious world of seeds. This episode was produced in part by EJ, Laura, Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan...
2024-01-071h 08
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 454 - An Orchid that Smells Like Aphids RevisitedMy guest today is Melissa Díaz-Morales from the Jardín Botánico Lankester in Costa Rica and her work focuses on orchid pollination. Orchids are known for their deceitful pollination syndromes and Melissa has spent the last few years working on a lady slipper orchid known as Phragmipedium longifolium. This flowers of this beautiful orchid appear to be mimicking aphid infestations. Why is that? Listen and find out ;) This episode was produced in part by Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Ran...
2023-12-3116 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 453 - Small Flies & Orchid Diversity RevisitedWe revisit a conversation with 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 that can h...
2023-12-2449 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 452 - The Many Mysteries of Orchid PollinationKnowing what we don't know can be as important as knowing what we do. Even highly charismatic plants like orchids harbor many mysteries in need of investigation. Join me and Dr. Adam Karrenmans as we discuss his new book "Demystifying Orchid Pollination" and learn why paying attention to nature at all scales can provide valuable insights into biodiversity and conservation. This episode was produced in part by Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin, Keena, Robin, Peter...
2023-12-1752 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 451 - Darwin & the Art of BotanyMany of us are familiar with Darwin's finches and the impact animals made on his work, but what about his obsession with plants? Indeed, plants were an instrumental part of Darwin's life, helping him understand how organisms adapt and evolve. Darwin's relationship with plants are the subject of a beautifully illustrated new book "Darwin and the Art of Botany." With the help of Oak Spring Garden Foundation, authors Dr. James Costa and Bobbie Angell explore Darwin's botanical investigations with the help of centuries of botanical art. Join me and Dr. Costa as we explore what "Darwin and the Art...
2023-12-101h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 450 - Canopy Life in the World's Tallest TreesRedwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) can grow so big and gnarly that their canopies support entire ecosystems. From lichens and liverworts, to ericaceous shrubs, these ecological communities are very important to the biodiversity of redwood habitat. However, not all redwoods have what it takes to provide habitat for these organisms. Join me and Marie Antoine as we explore the ins and outs of redwood canopy biodiversity and learn what can be done to ensure they can support biodiversity well into the future. This episode was produced in part by Sung, NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly...
2023-12-0300 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 449 - Aquascaping RevisitedThe world of aquatic plants is incredibly diverse, yet our ties to land make it difficult to fully appreciate these organisms. Their glory and splendor is best observed in their underwater realm. This is why aquascaping is such an incredible hobby. Planted aquariums provide you with a unique view of the underwater world without ever having to get your feet wet. Whether you simply like to look at planted aquariums or get your hands wet in designing and constructing your own, there is no end to the joy you can get from bring aquatic plants into your home. My...
2023-11-2647 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 448 - Why Fish Need PlantsIt may not seem obvious at first, but fish need plants too! From aquatic to terrestrial, plants provide fish places to breed, places to eat, and places to hide. Plants filter water and prevent erosion, ensuring fish have suitable habitat. Plants also feed the organisms that fish love to eat. Simply put, you can't protect fish without protecting and restoring native plant communities. No one knows this better than the folks over at Conversation Fisheries. Join me and Conservation Biologist Evan Poellinger as we explore the many ways plants make their mission possible. This episode was produced in part...
2023-11-191h 00
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 447 - Black Belt BiodiversityThe black belt prairie is a crescent-shaped grassland ecosystem curving through Mississippi and Alabama that supports high biodiversity. Sadly, like grasslands across the globe, the black belt prairie ecosystem continues to be carved up into increasingly smaller chunks of habitat. What is left often suffers from degradation due to a lack of life-giving fires. Understanding what remains in these habitats and how ecological restoration efforts can bring back some of what has been lost is of utmost importance. Joining us to talk about this is Dr. JoVonn Hill who aims to understand the links between plants and arthropods like...
2023-11-1250 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 446 - Bats: Friends of PlantsBats and plants rely on each other more than we know. From pollination and seed dispersal, to pest control and unexpected relationships, Dr. Merlin Tuttle wants you to know just how important bats are across the globe. Dr. Merlin Tuttle is widely recognized as the godfather of modern bat conservation and is the founder of Merlin Tuttle's Bat Conservation. Join us as we take a dive into the amazing world of bat/plant interactions and learn what you can do to help! This episode was produced in part by NOK, Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie...
2023-11-0544 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 445 - Mountain LongleafLongleaf pine (Pinus palustris) is a remarkable species that defines much of the Southeastern Coastal Plain of North America. However, this species isn't restricted to coastal habitats. In a small portion of its range, longleaf pines make it into more mountainous habitats. So-called mountain longleaf pines represent an increasingly rare habitat type and understanding how to restore them is vital for all the species these forests support. Join me and Dr. Matt Weand as we look at the science behind mountain longleaf restoration efforts. This episode was produced in part by Stephen, Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will...
2023-10-2942 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 444 - Steppe Plants RevisitedFor Mike Bone, propagating and growing plants is not just a hobby or a job, it's a way of life. Mike is the curator of the steppe collections at the Denver Botanic Gardens and his love affair with these plants rings true in everything he does. Steppes are important ecosystems, both ecological and culturally and yet they are all too often overlooked. As you will hear, Mike's work is about more than just putting pretty plants on display. It is also about conservation and education. Mike's passion for the plants of steppe habitats is intoxicating and hopefully inspires others...
2023-10-2351 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 443 - Flowers & FireGrasslands and fire are essentially inseparable. For the most part, grassland can't exist without periodic burns. But, are the beneficial effects of fire the same for all plants? How do the effects of fire change across scales? These are the kinds of questions Dr. Jared Beck and his colleagues are trying to answer. Join us for a species-eye view of the role of fire in grassland habitats. This episode was produced in part by Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan...
2023-10-1550 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 442 - Of Wolves & ForestsPredators like wolves are an integral part of ecosystem health. Moreover, their interactions with their herbivore prey can have major consequences on plant communities. Join me and Dr. Sarah Hoy as we discuss decades worth of data on wolf-moose-plant interactions on Isle Royale and learn how wolves can even impact plant chemistry. This episode was produced in part by Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin, Keena, Robin, Peter, Whitney, Kenned, Margaret, Daniel, Karen, David, Earl, Jocelyn, Gary, Krysta, Elizabeth...
2023-10-0846 min
In Defense of Plants PodcastEp. 441 - Seed AccelerationWhat do witch hazel seeds and a speeding bullet have in common? Acceleration! Join me and Justin Jorge as we explore the ecomechanics of seed dispersal in Loropetalum chinense, Hamamelis virginiana and Fortunearia sinensis. This episode was produced in part by Heidi, Kristin, Luke, Sea, Shannon, Thomas, Will, Jamie, Waverly, Brent, Tanner, Rick, Kazys, Dorothy, Katherine, Emily, Theo, Nichole, Paul, Karen, Randi, Caelan, Tom, Don, Susan, Corbin, Keena, Robin, Peter, Whitney, Kenned, Margaret, Daniel, Karen, David, Earl, Jocelyn, Gary, Krysta, Elizabeth, Southern California Carnivorous Plant Enthusiasts, Pattypollinators, Peter, Judson, Ella, Alex, Dan, Pamela, Peter, Andrea, Nathan, Karyn, Michelle, Jillian, C...
2023-10-0142 min
Minds Worth MeetingThe Best of Minds Worth Meeting Season 1In this final episode of season one, hosts Whitney Jennings, Justin Louis, and Kenny Conrade look back at some of the top contributions of guests from Minds Worth Meeting season 1 which focused on female experts and thought-leaders. Guests featured include: Zoe Chance, expert on the power of influence and decision-making and author of Influence Is Your Superpower: The Science of Winning Hearts, Sparking Change, and Making Good Things Happen.Randi Caplan, Farient Advisors' Leader of marketing and business development on professional services marketing. Susan Stern, founder of Stern Strategy Group on building an organization from the grou...
2023-05-1018 min
The Secrets of Supermom ShowWoman of Abundance with Randi ZinnOur guest today is Randi Zinn. Randi is an author, mindfulness and wellness expert, podcast host and founder of the Woman of Abundance Mentorship Program, the Going Beyond Movement and Beyond Mom. The Going Beyond movement grants women permission to step in, step up, and enter a curious dialogue with their life. In today’s episode, we discuss…Randi’s experience of a traumatic event that changed everythingDiscovering that our realities are not so different from other peopleHow do we rein...
2022-09-2936 min
High Vibration Living with Chef Whitney AronoffDetoxification, Weight Loss & Inflammation with Dr. Austyn YarbroughDr. Austyn Yarbrough was a USA competitive gymnast that was always into health and wellness. After an injury, she was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition and later an auto-immune disorder. She knows first-hand the benefits of holistic medicine to heal. Dr. Yarbrough attended The University of Mississippi where she studied Pre-Med Exercise Science and nutrition. She became a licensed and national board-certified chiropractic physician through Chiropractic Medicine at Southern California University of Health Sciences. She is also a certified Acupuncture, ART, Class IV laser therapist, Graston Technique practitioner, and SHAPE certified practitioner. She has an online functional nutrition practice...
2022-07-1241 min
The Weekly ShowThe Weekly Show 3/5/22This week, we discuss Endure Charities with Whitney Reynolds and Randi Moxy. Endure Charities is providing positive, career-oriented activities for those youth and adults who are interested in the arts, but have no access to art programs. Olivia Nichols from Lonolife gives us health tips for National Nutrition Month.
2022-03-0625 min
Radio CurfewRADIO CURFEW ~ BROADCASTforFREEDOMWith a mixed bag and hope for change.. ♫ ♥☝
Broadcast: Tuesday 21st April 2020
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RotFront FM ~ Rotfront
The Old Man And Me ~ JJ Cale
Quetzalcoatl Offering ~ Captain Planet
Omusus Da Fe M'Musu ~ Hedzoleh Soundz
Diamonds On The Bass Of Her Shoes (Scrimshire Bass Edit) ~ Paul Simon
Natureland ~ Amon Tobin
Nouba Noutou (The Spy From Cairo Remix) ~ Alsarah & The Nubatones
Kummst Du Ma Blod (feat_Makki) ~ Binder Krieglstein
Money Haffi Zouk (Petrol Molotov mashup) ~ DJ Superstereo vs Hawkeye
Praise You version ~ Fatboy Slim
Clear As Water (ft Bajka Hidden Jazz Quartett) ~ Una Mas Trio
Manana (Nellski Edit) ~ Oliver Onions
Pa'lante (Thykier_remix) ~ Los_Chicos...
2020-04-233h 07
New Thinking Allowed Audio PodcastInPresence 0166: First Live Stream with Jeffrey MishloveThis is the edited version of the live stream event held on April 19, 2020, with Jeffrey Mishlove. During this 90 minute program, Jeffrey speaks about his father, his family of origin, and events in his early life for the first half hour. The next hour is spent fielding a wide variety of questions from the viewers.
For a complete, updated list with links to all of our videos, see https://newthinkingallowed.com/Listings.htm.
If you would like to volunteer your time and energy to help spread the word about the New Thinking Allowed YouTube channel on...
2020-04-211h 32
The Fuzz ShowVoodoo Soul Revue No. 5If you're unfamiliar with my episodes dubbed Voodoo Soul... time to get hip. This episode is a revue of the past 4 episodes that have been donned with the title Voodoo Soul, a made up genre of deep underground dusty grooves that'll take your speakers for a trip and loosen up your stiff knees. Some soul, some R&B, some Gospel and a bit of instrumentals that'll broaden your aural horizons. Get hip.1: Johnson, Hawkins, Tatum & Durr - You Can't Blame Me2: Don Randi - Oh Yeah3: Marion Black - Who Knows4: Gene Harris & His Three Sounds...
2018-09-251h 04
Women of Substance Music Podcast Volume 1#536 Music by Whitney Wolanin, Carmen Nardone (writers Jose Gomez & Nancy Rosenblum), Rebecca Hosking, Edmond & Carol Nicodemi, Joanna Marie, Kay Miracle, Sarah Spring, Chappell & Dave Holt, Simons & Cameron (feat. Rachel Eamigh), Alison Joy WilliamsTo get live links to the music we play and resources we offer, visit This show includes the following songs: Whitney Wolanin - Frosty The Snowman Carmen Nardone (writers Jose Gomez & Nancy Rosenblum) - Tis The Season Rebecca Hosking - To The Angels Out There Edmond & Carol Nicodemi - The Christmas Song Joanna Marie - Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas Kay Miracle - Christmas Valentine Sarah Spring - What Child is This Chappell & Dave Holt - Cause To Celebrate Simons & Cameron feat. Rachel Eamigh - Cut The Fat, Santa Alison Joy Williams - It's Christmas Time Again For Music...
2016-12-0840 min
Women of Substance Music Podcast Volume 1#531 Music by Whitney Wolanin, Bree Noble, Heidi Muller, Hazel Jade Rogers, Linda McKenzie, Adele Morgan, Raison D’Etre, Alicia Mathewson, Emily ZuzikTo get live links to the music we play and resources we offer, visit This show includes the following songs: Whitney Wolanin - Run Run Rudolph Bree Noble - It's Christmastime Heidi Muller - I Wonder As I Wander Hazel Jade Rogers - Have Yourself A Merry LIttle Christmas Linda McKenzie - In December Adele Morgan - It's That Time of Year Raison D'Etre - Go Tell It On The Mountain Alicia Mathewson - Be the Light Emily Zuzik - Winter in California For Music Biz Resources Visit Visit our Sponsor Grace Garland at: Visit our Sponsor Randi Fay at...
2016-12-0139 min
Women of Substance Music Podcast Volume 1#13 Holiday Music by, Whitney Wolanin, Stephanie Newton, Eva Margolies, Alyssa Trahan, Randi Fay, Kacey Jones, Natalie Toro, Lisa Downing, Bruce Samb, Linda Newlin, Fran Lucci, Sabrina & Craig, Kathryn Kaye, Luna Jade, Lauren Verstat, Pamela HartPlaylist:
Whitney Wolanin - Run Run Rudolph Stephanie Newton - O Come All Ye Faithful Eva Margolies - NY Girl in Love Alyssa Trahan - Silent Night Rändi Fay - Mary, Did You Know? Kacey Jones - Christmas In Rehab Natalie Toro - Just in Time for Christmas Lisa Downing - O Come, O Come, Emmanuel/Do You Hear What I Hear? Bruce Samb - Man Dressed In Red Linda Newlin - Christmas Song Fran Lucci - Mrs for Christmas Sabrina & Craig - Tree of Love Kathryn Kaye - Carol of The Birds Luna Jade - Christmas Longing Lauren Verstat - Gonna...
2014-12-081h 01