Shows
Tree Lady TalksIntroduction to the Handbook of Urban Tree Allometry with Luke Fay and Joe FennelSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the newly released handbook on UK urban tree allometry with experts Joe Fennell and Luke Fay. The conversation covers the importance of understanding tree growth data, the process of data collection and cleaning, and the practical applications of this data in landscape design. The handbook aims to provide a comprehensive overview of tree characteristics, including mature tree dimensions and predictive models for tree growth, emphasizing the need for standardized data in urban forestry. In this conversation, Luke Fay and Joe Fennell...2025-02-2554 min
Tree Lady TalksGeorge Bumann - Eavesdropping on AnimalsSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, host Sharon engages with wildlife expert and sculpture artist George Boomin, who shares insights from his book 'Eavesdropping on Animals.' The conversation explores the intricate ways animals communicate, the significance of sound in nature, and the intelligence of various species. George discusses his unique talent for imitating animal sounds, the importance of listening to nature, and the fascinating studies on prairie dogs and their complex vocalizations. The episode emphasizes the need for humans to reconnect with the natural world and recognize the...2024-11-151h 11
Tree Lady TalksForest Gardens with Andrew WaltonSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, host Sharon engages with Andrew Walton to explore the concept of forest gardens and their ecological and social benefits. They discuss the importance of nature analogous polyculture, which mimics natural ecosystems while providing food, fiber, and medicine. The conversation delves into the various layers of a forest garden, including canopy trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants, and emphasizes the need for biodiversity and resilience in these systems. Andrew highlights the historical context of forest gardening, its potential for urban agriculture, and the importance of...2024-11-0843 min
Tree Lady TalksCarol DonaldsonSend us a textIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon and Carol Donaldson discuss the transformative power of volunteering in wildlife conservation. Carol shares her journey from a difficult personal phase to finding purpose and community through her work with volunteers. The conversation highlights the diverse characters within volunteer groups, the emotional growth that comes from shared experiences, and the lasting impact of inspirational figures in one's life. In this engaging conversation, Carol Donaldson shares her experiences leading volunteer groups in conservation, emphasizing the importance of diversity, building friendships, and navigating personal challenges. She discusses...2024-11-0150 min
Tree Lady TalksTrees on buildings with Alistair BayfordSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the growing trend of planting trees on buildings with expert Alistair Bayford. They explore the benefits of roof gardens, the challenges of structural considerations, soil requirements, and the maintenance of trees in urban environments. Alistair shares insights on successful tree species for roofs and emphasizes the importance of proper care and attention to ensure the longevity and health of these urban green spaces.TakeawaysThe trend of planting trees on buildings is increasing due to wellness and...2024-10-2528 min
Tree Lady TalksRussell Horsey - Greening the Community and Tree PlotterSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon speaks with Russell Horsey about his work in community greening across the UK, the challenges of funding for these initiatives, and the innovative Tree Plotter software that engages communities in tree management. Russell shares insights on the importance of community involvement in urban forestry and the need for better funding processes to support these efforts.TakeawaysRussell Horsey works with disadvantaged communities to promote greening.Funding for community greening projects is often delayed.Cash flow is...2024-10-2312 min
Tree Lady TalksHenry Kuppen - Tree GuestsSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon interviews Henry Kuppen, a tree ambassador from the Netherlands, about the concept of 'tree guests'—a reframing of pests and diseases that affect trees. Henry discusses the importance of biodiversity in managing tree health, particularly in relation to the oak processionary moth. The conversation explores various management techniques, the ecological impact of these pests, and the legal and ethical considerations surrounding tree management. The episode emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for a more holistic approach to arboriculture. In this co...2024-10-1859 min
Tree Lady TalksBark! The Science of Helping Your Anxious, Fearful, or Reactive Dog, with Zazie ToddSend us a textIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon interviews Zazie Todd, an animal behavior expert, about her book 'Bark' which focuses on understanding and helping fearful, anxious, and reactive dogs. They discuss the outdated training methods that can harm dogs, the importance of recognizing signs of anxiety, and the benefits of positive reinforcement training. Zazie emphasizes the need for dog guardians to understand their pets' emotions and the various causes of fear and anxiety, including genetics and early experiences. The conversation also covers practical tips for managing separation anxiety, the role of medication...2024-10-1552 min
Tree Lady Talks3-30-300 - Cecil Konijnendijk and Dirk VoetsSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the transformative 3-30-300 rule with experts Cecil Konijnendijk and Dirk Voets. They explore the importance of urban greening, the scientific methodology behind the rule, and its global impact on city planning and public health. The conversation highlights community engagement, the challenges faced by urban foresters, and the need for innovative funding mechanisms to support green initiatives. The episode concludes with a vision of a greener future where nature and urban life coexist harmoniously.TakeawaysThe 3-30...2024-10-111h 00Tree Lady TalksEuropean Tree Standards Jaroslav Kolarik, Czech RepublicSend us a textIn this conversation, Sharon interviews Jaroslav Kolarik, CEO of SafeTrees and member of the Arboriculture Academy in the Czech Republic. They discuss the role of the European Arboriculture Council (EAC) in promoting arboriculture in Europe and the certification programs offered by the EAC. They also talk about the importance of certification for arborists and the challenges of raising awareness and understanding of arboriculture among the general public. They touch on the development of European Arboriculture Standards and the upcoming conference in Prague. They also discuss the tree assessment and tree value calculation standards...2024-09-2353 min
Tree Lady TalksWhat is Arbitecture? With Dr Gary WinnSend us a textBuilt and natural environments are often referred to independently, but in reality, comprise two defined parts of one environment. Within the environment, trees and buildings exist, though not always in equal relationships. Where development is proposed, taking precedence over trees, an imbalance between natural and built environments may occur. This could be the result of tree- building conflict often resulting in tree removal. Where architects are creators of the built environment, there is a professional responsibility to consider the wider environmental context impacted by development and also the contributing benefit that t...2024-09-201h 01
Tree Lady TalksOaklore by Jules Acton - a glorious celebration of the culture & natural history of oaksSend us a textIn this conversation, Jules Acton discusses her book 'Oaklore' and her journey into the world of nature conservation. She shares her experiences of visiting a nature reserve for the first time and the barriers people may face when trying to engage with nature. Jules emphasizes the importance of creating openings and ways for people to connect with nature. She also talks about her childhood experiences with nature, including a special apple tree in her garden. Jules explores the world of oak trees, including the birds and insects that depend on them. She shares...2024-09-131h 11Tree Lady TalksCallum Throw - Technology in Arb - AI Strikes!Send us a textIn this episode, Sharon and Callum discuss the use of AI and technology in the arboriculture industry. Callum explains that AI has been around for decades and has been used in various applications, such as loan applications and predictive text. In the forestry industry, AI has been used for mapping deforestation and monitoring pests and diseases. Callum emphasizes the importance of training AI models to get the desired output and highlights the need for social responsibility in shaping AI. He also shares how he uses AI in his daily work as an arboriculture...2024-09-051h 19
Tree Lady TalksBS:5837 Update - Howard BoothSend us a textIn this bonus episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the revision of the British standard for trees and construction, BS 5837. She interviews Howard Booth, the chair of the committee proposing the changes, to discuss the main updates. The changes include new process flow charts, a new categorization method, adjustments to root protection areas, and the inclusion of canopy cover assessments. The goal of these changes is to ensure better tree care and development practices. The episode provides valuable insights into the proposed revisions and their implications. The conversation explores various parameters and...2024-08-291h 11Tree Lady TalksDiscovering roots and Lidar! Kimberley Howard, Tim Moya AssociatesSend us a textKimberley gets to talk to both Sharon & Noel this time, about LIDAR and apples, but not at the same time! Kimberly Howard, a senior Arboricultural Consultant, discusses the use of new technology in arboriculture, specifically the use of LIDAR scanning to assess tree roots. She shares her experience working on a project to redevelop Grosvenor Square Gardens in London, where two mature London plane trees needed to be protected during construction. The use of LIDAR scanning allowed the project team to accurately locate and assess the size and distribution of the tree r...2024-08-0938 min
Tree Lady TalksWho is The Tree Lady? - Luke Faye finds out!Send us a textIn this exclusive interview Sharon is interviewed by her friend Luke Fay. They discuss how Sharon got into podcasting, her preparation process, and the challenges of remote interviews. They also talk about Sharon's use of social media, her superpower of idea generation, and her journey to becoming a tree expert and starting her own practice. In this conversation, Sharon discusses the need for the development industry to evolve with a focus on community and the environment. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to the purpose of creating something better and not getting...2024-07-261h 15
Tree Lady TalksBNG and Veteran trees - Julian Forbes-LairdSend us a textIn this conversation, Sharon and Julian discuss the concept of biodiversity net gain and its unintended consequences, particularly in relation to the classification of veteran trees. They highlight the discrepancy between the definition of veteran trees in the National Planning Policy Framework and the definition in the Biodiversity Gain Requirements Regulations. Julian explains that the regulations' definition includes trees with common features such as significant decay, large girth, and high value for nature, which dilutes the exceptional value that should be associated with veteran trees. This creates confusion and potential conflicts in the...2024-07-0555 min
Tree Lady TalksGlobal Agroforestry and hope for the future - Patrick Worms,Send us a textThis week Sharon speaks to Patrick Worms, Senior Science Policy Advisor for Centre for International Forestry research and World Agroforestry. President, IUAF - the International Union of AgroforestryVice-President, EURAF – the European Agroforestry FederationTrustee, Savanna InstituteSenior Fellow, EGA – the Evergreening Global AllianceSteering Committee Member, ILLP - Initiatives for Land, Lives and Peace Advisor, EJP Soils - European Joint Programme SoilsAdvisor, ERC - Ecosystem Restoration CampsExecutive Committee, IPC - International Poplar Commission, FAOFor more e...2024-01-2657 min
Tree Lady TalksThe Tree Lady Talks TrailerSend us a textSharon Durdant-Hollamby, the Tree Lady, introduces the podcast which, since its beginnings in July 2020, has reached over 50 countries, and is now in its 4th season. Subscribe here to make sure you don't miss any episodes - available wherever you get your podcasts! For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2024-01-0800 min
Tree Lady TalksBen Seamark - Arboriculture in AustraliaSend us a textBen is Co-Founder of Forestree, the new generation of Tree Management purpose built for Local Government. Here he talks to Sharon about all things arb in Australia. Click here for the link to his talk at TreeNet whilst he worked for the City of Burnside - all about innovation in urban forestry. Treenet is a National non-for-profit organisation here in Australia that does wonderful work promoting the benefits of trees and brings researchers together with practitioners.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2024-01-0546 min
Tree Lady TalksChristmas Tree Special with Dr Gabriel Hemery - The Tree Almanac 2024 -Send us a textJoin Sharon and Gabriel as they discuss a wondrous seasonal journey through Britain and Ireland’s trees in his new book , The Tree Almanac 2024.This is a Christmas Tree Special! What is better for the environment, a real or plastic tree? What is your Celtic Tree Zodiac? What terms can we bring back to use? All this, with poetry, science and the history of our Christmas decorations. We also interview Christmas tree grower Andrew Ingram, at The Tree Barn, Christmas Common, in the Chilterns. The Tree Barn - Christmas Trees, Collec...2023-12-1948 min
Tree Lady TalksDr Richard Claxton Gardening 4 HealthSend us a textWhy is gardening so good for us? What is the science behind the benefits for the body, mind and soul? What is so good about healthy soil for our health. All this and the importance of social prescribing.Richard Claxton trained at Guys and St Thomas’ Hospitals Medical School, qualifying in 1996. Initially he worked in South East London, specialising in paediatrics. He then completed his general practice training in the Tunbridge Wells area. Children’s health services still remain a special interest as well as family medicine. Dr Claxton is a medi...2023-12-1543 min
Tree Lady TalksJames Kaechele - New York Tree Trust Development DirectorSend us a textJames Kaechele studied at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry in Syracuse, NY. He has been connecting people with plants for the past ten years. As an ISA-certified arborist, Kaechele leads the NY Tree Trust, a citywide program dedicated to fostering public-private partnerships in urban forestry. Here he also talks to Sharon about managing New Yorks 650,000 trees, it's 8 million inhabitants, and 10 million opinions. He is also a director of Tree Time. Instagram James Kaechele (@nyctreeguy)For more episodes in the Tree...2023-12-0748 min
Tree Lady TalksTristan Gooley - How To Read A TreeSend us a textSharon had a very enlightening chat with Tristan Gooley about his latest book, How To Read A Tree, of which, a description from the man himself, below.In How to Read a Tree, you’ll discover the simple principles that explain the shapes and patterns you can see in trees and what they mean. And you’ll learn rare skills that can be applied every time you pass a tree, whether you are in a town or a wilder spot. Tristan Gooley Websitewww.naturalnavigator.com2023-11-2443 min
Tree Lady TalksFallen and Felled - Re-using London's Felled Timber StockSend us a textListen to Sharon talking to Fallen & Felled founders Bruce Saunders and Patrick Welsh as they set about making beautiful items from London's fallen timber - to quote from their website:-'We save city trees from the fire - milling them into boards and slowly seasoning them for over 12 months - to transform them into furniture-grade hardwood timber. We also source some popular English species - including oak and ash which are less common in the capital - from woodlands outside London. Our timber is used by furniture makers, a...2023-11-1747 minTree Lady TalksPeter Wohlleben - The Power of TreesSend us a textSharon is interviewing Peter Wohlleben again with his new books: The Power of Trees and Our Little Farm (co written with his with Miriam). The Power of Trees explores what is wrong with Forestry and how the power of trees can save us. Our Little Farm is an inspired, practical memoir of creating a sustainable small holding amongst the trees. CALLED “A VERITABLE TREE WHISPERER” by the Wall Street Journal, Peter Wohlleben is known across the world for his illuminating books about forests and how to help them th...2023-09-1554 min
Tree Lady TalksGrown in Britain Week Oct 10-16 2022Send us a textFrom the Grown in Britain website:-In the UK, we import £7.8bn of foreign timber each year, whilst neglecting the potential of our own forests and woodlands. Only China imports more wood than the UK.Grown in Britain certification reduces unnecessary imports, by encouraging and supporting active and sustainable management of our own forests and woodlands.Dougal Driver, CEO, talks to Sharon about the week and what to expect.The 2022 theme is ‘Building resilience together’, and will feature sessions on topics such as ELM...2022-10-0653 min
Tree Lady TalksThe AA Conference 2022Send us a textThis years conference was held at Loughborough, and the podcast contains contributions from Jill Butler, Ted Green, Russell Horsey, Keith Sacre and more, in roving interview style by The Tree Lady, Sharon Durdant-Hollamby. See more about getting involved in the industry at the arboricultural association website Also interviewed was Mark Brays, Oklahoma Forestry Service Officer, describes the Survivor Tree after the Oklahoma bombing in 1995. John Gathright from Japan talked about his work helping children climb trees - more here at his website.Russell Ball discussed his work f...2022-09-3027 min
Tree Lady TalksDiseases of the London Plane tree with Jim ChambersSend us a textThis weeks podcast features Jim Chambers from Tim Moya Associates talking to Sharon about the diseases that affect London Planes, including Neofusicoccum parvum, Inonotus hispidus, and massaria, to name but 3. Also available on the treeladytalks.co.uk website and here at youtube with photos describing what Jim has found out, For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2022-09-2340 minTree Lady TalksTwiglet Episode - Cath Wright, Nature and Forest Therapy GuideSend us a textThis bitesize episode centres on the interview Sharon had with Cath Wright, in our Mental Health and Nature Special, and following the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth , September 8th 2022.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2022-09-1410 min
Tree Lady TalksThe Tree Thieves by Lyndsie BourgonSend us a textLyndsie Bourgon, author, oral historian, and 2018 National Geographic Explorer chats to Sharon about her new book, the Tree Thieves, which covers the subject of timber poaching.The book follows cases of redwood burl theft and maple and cedar poaching, and then branches out to consider the global timber trade and work being done by the US Fish & Wildlife Service and Forest Service to keep up with wide scale poaching For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2022-09-081h 07
Tree Lady TalksThe Carbonator - Andrew Baker - The Woodland Carbon CodeSend us a textOn all your favourite platforms and at the Tree Lady Talks website is Andrew Baker of the Woodland Carbon Code, telling all in this informative interview with Sharon about the UK situation with Carbon - sequestration, offsetting, and more. Affectionately known as 'The Carbonator', he is on a mission, and he knows what he's talking about! Andy recently joined the Woodland Carbon Code (WCC) team as their Woodland Carbon Markets Advisor. During his time at Tilhill he represented the ICF on the WCC Advisory Board, after achieving his professional membership in 2019. Wo...2021-06-191h 02
Tree Lady TalksPeter Wohlleben - The Heartbeat Of Trees SoundbiteSend us a textPeter Wohlleben is a German forester and author who writes on ecological themes in popular language. He is the author of the New York Times Bestseller The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate, published by Greystone Publishing which was translated from German into English in 2016. His new book, The Heartbeat of Trees, is out in June and this episode is designed to coincide with that. He recently featured in The Guardian and The Times in relation to publicity for the book. In this soundbite, Peter talks to S...2021-06-1002 min
Tree Lady TalksWomen In Arb - The Special!Send us a textIt all happens in a virtual coffee shop. Michelle Ryan, Chair of the Arboricultural Association, has created a Women in Arb group, and for this episode, Sharon has joined her and a group of ladies in the profession to discuss everything from a woman's point of view.If you're looking to get into this profession, this is a fascinating insight from people who do it, and some great views about what is happening in the industry from a female perspective, including interviews with Lesley Adams, Claire Harbinson, Georgi Ennis, M...2021-05-141h 38
Tree Lady TalksMichelle Ryan - Women In Arb - SoundbiteSend us a textMichelle Ryan, Chair of the Arboricultural Association, talks to Sharon for this episode of Women in Arb. For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2021-05-0801 min
Nature's Architects#09. I don't wear tweed, or have a beard - Sharon Durdant-HollambyWell the shoe's on the other foot this time and it's my turn to talk to the tree lady. I have personally watched and admired the work of Sharon Durdant-Hollamby for many years, and I love listening to her podcast Tree Lady Talks. She has a knack of saying it how it is and always getting the right message across. Her best one liner "I don't wear tweed or have a beard".Sharon does some amazing work with the NHS and grant schemes to deliver impacting schemes for residents, amongst so many other things. We’re go...2021-03-221h 01
Tree Lady TalksUnderstanding Treescapes Matters! i-Tree - Surveying to Create ChangeSend us a textThe full length interview, out on the 19th March, with Treeconomics looks at the big picture, what can be achieved, the Cambridge Project Case Study, and how i-design is influencing sustainable Highway Design. Here's founder Kenton Rogers' soundbite.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here. 2021-03-1701 min
Tree Lady TalksKeith Sacre, Tree Nurseries and Tree TargetsSend us a textKeith Sacre has a MSc in Arboriculture and Urban Forestry, a BSc in Arboriculture, a BSc in Social Science and a post graduate diploma in management studies. He is currently a director at Barcham Trees, the largest container tree nursery in Europe. Keith has over 30 years of experience in the nursery industry and was the lead author of the UK British Standard Trees: From Nursery to Independence in the Landscape published in 2014. Prior to working in the nursery industry he spent several years managing and developing public open space in t...2021-03-1258 min