Shows
My Favorite TreesEp. 99-The ElderberrySend us a textFor the final topic episode of My Favorite Trees, we take one last look at the Celtic Ogham Tree Calendar. All the way at the end is a large shrub lauded for its medicinal properties--the Elderberry. In culture, this plant represents a cycle of rebirth and the new beginnings that all endings bring. Let's explore the unique aspects of this small tree and look at the journey it has been on throughout time.Please send me questions for my upcoming Q&A episode! Less than two weeks to go!...
2024-04-0223 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 98-The Spruce RevisitedSend us a textFor quite some time now, I've been wanting to go back and re-record my Sitka Spruce episode and add more stories I've learned since living in Alaska. Simultaneously, you may have wondered why I've only covered one of the most loved evergreen conifer groups around the world once. To be honest, I have some issues with the Picea genus, but I suppose now is as good a time as any to air out some dirty laundry. Today, I'll give the Spruce the credit it's due and share those Sitka stories I've been holding...
2024-03-1926 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 97-The Sacred Trees of KisoSend us a textI teased the idea of this episode a few months ago when I covered the Arborvitae, mentioning that the Japanese Arborvitae belonged to a group of species held sacred in a specific forest in Japan. Today, I'd like to highlight these species: two Arborvitae, two Cypresses, and an Umbrella Pine (which isn't really a Pine). We'll talk about what makes them biologically special as well as special to those who have lived in and around the Kiso Forest. This relationship teaches us much about Japan's historic relationship with the natural world and the...
2024-03-0528 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 96-The MulberrySend us a textMany children around the world grow up singing the nursery rhyme, "Here we go 'round the Mulberry bush." But what is a Mulberry bush? And have you ever even seen its tasty Mulberries in grocery stores? Turns out, this tree (not bush) is better known for something other than its fruit, and that fame has deeply pervaded world cultures whether you know it or not. Listen to find out how, but I'll give you a hint! The Mulberry is closely related to Fig Trees, so it may or may not have something to...
2024-02-2031 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 95-The Tupelo (ft. Doug Still)Send us a textOn this special field trip of an episode, I join arborist and host of the podcast, "This Old Tree," Doug Still on a hike through some Tupelo groves on Cape Cod. Together, we learn about the natural habitat of these trees, why they're so loved in Spring and Fall, how the folks on Martha's Vineyard came up with a unique nickname for them, and how modern humans have shaped the landscape of scenic Cape Cod.Want to hear more from Doug? Check out his podcast, This Old Tree on your podcast...
2024-02-0630 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 94-The MyrtleSend us a textThe Myrtle is a small Mediterranean tree with significance tied to just about every culture of that region--due in large part to how fragrant the plant is. It enlivens Jewish holidays, protects one from curses, and is a display of love and beauty so powerful that it can start wars. Help me ring in the Jewish Tree New Year by learning how this fragrant tree can be so significant and how it shows up in our lives today.Tons of bonus content is available on my Patreon! (patreon.com/MyFavoriteTrees)
2024-01-2322 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 93-Forester Spotlight: Richard St. Barbe BakerSend us a textHappy New Year, tree fans! For the first episode of 2024, I present to you another story of a historical figure that helped reshape our modern relationship with trees and forests. I'm sure you've come across a number of charitable organizations that raise money to plant trees all over the world, especially in countries within Africa and Latin America. But how did all these groups get their start? Today, we'll learn about Richard St. Barbe Baker, an Englishman who came to be known as the first global conservationist. Baker's creation of the Men of...
2024-01-0925 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 92-The FirSend us a textWhile there are many holidays that coincide with the Winter season, there are few that involve traditions I love so much as the Christmas Tree. And while there are many options for what kind of evergreen conifer to bring into your home and decorate with lights and baubles, the champion of them all is the Fir. What is it about this tree that makes it so well-loved at this time of year? I'll explore this species' relationship with the holiday, dive into why Russia ties a holiday tree to New Years instead, and...
2023-12-2624 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 91-The ArborvitaeSend us a textDepending on where you live, you may know this tree better as Cedar. There's the Northern White-Cedar, the Western Redcedar, and a few others. But these species, more broadly known as Arborvitae or Thuja, are in a completely different plant family than "true Cedars." Today, I'll address this name confusion and dive way deep into why these incredible and unique trees don't need to bank off of someone else's success. From sacred forests in Japan, to swamps in the Upper Midwest, to the groves of giants in the Pacific Northwest, Arborvitaes are some...
2023-12-1230 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 90-The African MarulaSend us a textOn this rare trip to the African continent, we look at a keystone savanna species: the Marula. These trees reflect the movement of the great Bantu Migration, play a key role in certain fertility traditions, and allegedly get elephants drunk. The Marula will also teach us that apparently everything is a nut tree.Tons of bonus content is available on my Patreon! (patreon.com/MyFavoriteTrees)Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on InstagramScript Editing and Social Media...
2023-11-2823 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 89-The Pinyon PineSend us a textOf the many Pine species in the world, only a few yield seeds that we know as Pine Nuts. That's right, we're not done with nuts quite yet. In the US, we call these nut-producing Pines Pinyons. The Pinyon Pine is found all over the American southwest and has played a vital role in the diet and culture of numerous indigenous nations in that region for thousands of years. Come explore this history and learn about how Pine Nuts are viewed around the world.Tons of Bonus Content is available on...
2023-11-1425 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 88-The Macadamia TreeSend us a textFor the conclusion of this second Nut Tree Miniseries, I present you with the Macadamia Nut. An exotic snack with an absurdly hard shell that many associate with the island state of Hawaii--but one whose origins actually bring us to the rainforests of northern Australia. Learn about the aboriginal human relationship with this nut tree, how it became so strongly associated with Hawaii, and why a 21st century scandal sent its popularity skyward in South Korea.Bonus content is available on my Patreon! (patreon.com/MyFavoriteTrees)Music is by...
2023-10-3130 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 87-The Pistachio TreeSend us a textThe Pistachio is considered the most successful plant introduction to the United States in the 20th century. Up until then, they were a staple part of a diet that didn't stray far from western Asia and the Mediterranean. Though they've been a part of human life for thousands of years, their presence in the global market is just a few decades old. And even if you're at all familiar with how the western world perceives Iran, you may be surprised as to how much of an impact those relationships have affected this little...
2023-10-1725 minMy Favorite TreesEp.86-The Cashew TreeSend us a textWelcome to the start of my second Nut Trees miniseries! Last year, I covered in sequence the trees that give us Almonds, Walnuts, and Pecans--but I've returned to the snack bowl to dig into the history of Cashews, Pistachios, and Macadamia Nuts.I simply had to start with Cashews since they are my favorite nut, so come learn about a South American tree that took on a South Asian identity. These trees probably have the weirdest fruits that I've covered yet, excluding Figs obviously, and there is inevitably some weird stuff...
2023-10-0325 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 85-The PawpawSend us a textThe Pawpaw tree is a mysterious one, somehow being both my most requested topic and one many are likely to not have heard of. This tree species produces the largest native tree fruit in North America, but despite growing among temperate Oaks and Hickories, it has qualities seen only in otherwise tropical plants. Explore the Pawpaw with me, from its earliest impacts on human history to how it could find its way back into the spotlight today. Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art is by @boo...
2023-09-1921 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 84-Forester Spotlight: Gifford PinchotSend us a textThis is the first of a new episode type I'll be sprinkling into the mix, where I dive into the life of notable individuals who helped shape the profession of forestry and revolutionize our relationship with forests. To kick things off, I'm shining a light on Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief Forester of the US Forest Service. We'll get into what motivated him to introduce the idea of resource conservation in America and how he came to expand the role the government played in land management. Then we'll go deeper to understand his...
2023-09-0531 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 83-The Peruvian PeppertreeSend us a textAdmittedly, I was drawn to this tree because I assumed it served as the inspiration for the Peruvian Puff Pepper that was mentioned in Season 3, Episode 2 of Nickelodeon's "Drake and Josh." I'm still not sure if it is or not, but that doesn't lessen this tree's right to get its own episode. The Peruvian Peppertree is the source of the pink peppercorns we see on grocery store shelves. And this pink pepper has found its way into pre-Incan civilizations, early California missions, and French food fads of the 1980s.Music is...
2023-08-2218 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 82-The CandlenutSend us a textHawaii's upcoming Statehood Day has historically been a controversial holiday for its people. With this in mind, I have chosen this occasion to take a closer look at Hawaiian culture through the lens of its state tree, the Candlenut. As the name suggests, this tree has been used as a candle, but also a clock, a bitter cold remedy, tattoo dye, and so much more. Today, we'll explore how this tree can also serve to enlighten us on the history of Hawaii and her people.Join my Patreon for bonus content...
2023-08-0823 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 81-The White PoplarSend us a textThis close relative of the Aspen is not just recognizable by its white bark--the White Poplar is iconic for its multicolored leaves with rough, white undersides. Alongside this unique appearance, this tree's historic symbolism in Greek and Roman mythology bears multitudinous themes of beauty and death. Let's dive headfirst into the Underworld and learn about the forests that grow there.Get hours of bonus content by joining my Patreon at patreon.com/MyFavoriteTrees Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on I...
2023-07-2526 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 80-The Sycomore FigSend us a textYour eyes (and ears!) do not deceive you: Though we talked about the Sycamore last episode, we're now going to be looking at the Sycomore. What's the difference? Aside from being spelled just a single letter off, the Sycomore is unrelated to the Sycamore — and is also known as the Sycomore Fig! Learn all about how important this Tree of Life is to different African cultures as well as how the Sycomore Fig affects its surrounding ecosystem for the better. Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art...
2023-07-1125 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 79-The Sycamore/PlanetreeSend us a textThe American Sycamore is one of the most iconic forest trees in the eastern United States and I frequently have friends and family showing me pictures of it asking for its name. But I've held off on covering it for so long because history mostly points to it just being loved as a fantastic shade tree. Turns out, there's a ton human history surrounding this tree exactly because it's such a good shade tree! Hear how we've immortalized this figure in fable, how it softened the rapport of multiple emperors, and why it's...
2023-06-2735 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 78-The Balsa TreeSend us a textIt's no coincidence that model planes, cars, and other scale replicas are often made from the same material: Balsa wood. The wood of the Balsa tree is incredibly lightweight and uniquely strong given the former characteristic. And on top of the incredible biology associated with this, the Balsa Tree has been involved in some incredible adventures--like the Kon-Tiki Expedition from South America to Polynesia. Learn why I've decided to attribute symbolism of discovery with this jungle giant.Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art is by...
2023-06-1324 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 77-The Peach TreeSend us a textFor the third and final entry in my second Fruit Tree Miniseries, I talk about the Peach Tree. While this popular fruit is often associated with the American South, the Peach Tree is also highly valued across East Asia. Learn just how deep the Peach is embedded in Chinese history, how Europe took a completely opposite view of the fruit from the Far East, and how the state of Georgia stole it for their own identity. Subscribe to my Patreon for my bonus video series, production updates, and more! (patreon.com/M...
2023-05-3032 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 76-The Pear TreeSend us a textIn Part 2 of my second Fruit Tree Miniseries, I cover the Pear Tree. My reaction to this tree will certainly be varied, because despite its connection to untold cultures in the Caucuses and symbolism of longevity and generosity in China, I really just can't get into liking the fruit. I think Pears are gross! But today, listen as I open myself to new experiences and try to find love in what I believe to be the wrong places. This episode does not go in depth on the Bradford Pear, to kick that bee's...
2023-05-1624 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 75-The Mango TreeSend us a textThis episode kicks off a new three-part fruit tree miniseries! Up first is the Mango Tree, a species hailing from India that inspires love in Hinduism, rest and introspection in Buddhism, and admiration in modern China. Learn more about its unique domestication history in southeast Asia, Florida, and beyond. Music is by Academy Garden (academygarden.bandcamp.com)Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on InstagramScript editing and social media by Laurie Hilburn (lhilburn.journoportfolio.com)Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @t...
2023-05-0224 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 74-Science Education with Academy Garden (ft. artist Ethan Strange)Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Ethan Strange, the musical artist behind Academy Garden and my theme music. He recently announced that Academy Garden was finished indefinitely, so we discuss what the future holds for his creative passions as well as the research he's doing on Science Education for his PhD program. This episode features more of Ethan's music that I had yet to use, so let me know what you think of the new sounds! If you like them, some of them might just stick around.Music is by...
2023-04-1845 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 73-The Scots PineSend us a textThis week, I'm revisiting the Celtic Ogham Tree Calendar--but completely out of season. The Scots Pine represents the day after the Winter Solstice in Celtic Faith and symbolizes a guidepost of what is ahead. I figured this symbolism and the stories associated with this tree are also appropriate for the Spring, as days are finally longer than nights and people are starting to get a bit more active with the warmer weather. What could looking into this evergreen's past reveal to us about our own future?Music is by Academy Garden...
2023-04-0422 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 72-The Sabal PalmSend us a textAs Florida and South Carolina celebrate their respective statehood and independence days this month, we will celebrate their shared state tree! Sometimes called the Palmetto or the Cabbage Palm, there's a lot of debate regarding whether or not this plant should be considered a tree. I'll try and clear up that confusion and look into the legendary and controversial history these states share with their natural icon.Support the show directly by becoming at patron at patreon.com/myfavoritetrees! Get episodes early, production updates, shoutouts on episodes, and bonus videos where...
2023-03-2124 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 71-The SandalwoodSend us a textSandalwood is most widely known as a fragrance--whether in the form of incense, essential oils, or as soaps and sprays. How common it is today is in thanks to how important this tree has been to Hindu faith and Indian culture for thousands of years. I cover why it's called Sandal, how it shows up in Hindu legends, how it caused a population decline in Hawaii, and more.Subscribe to my Patreon at patreon.com/myfavoritetrees! Coming soon to the Treehuggers Tier is a series of videos (or maybe additional podcasts...
2023-03-0722 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 70-The BeechSend us a textThe Beech is iconic for its smooth, thin, grey bark. Carving one's initials into these trees is so recognizable a practice that it inspired the cover art for my podcast. But what are the downsides of this artform and what other significant aspects in history has it given rise to? The Beech's skin bears the scars of Nordic books, Daniel Boone, and Japanese conservation. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast. Subscribe to my Patreon for more...
2023-02-2121 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 69-Discussing "A Forest Journey" (ft. author John Perlin)Send us a textToday I sit down with John Perlin, author of the book A Forest Journey: The Role of Trees in the Fate of Civilization. This book was originally published in 1989, but is gearing up for a new edition set to release later this month. We talk in depth on what has changed since the last publication, and (spoilers) it's a lot. Hear some history on how much our world is shaped by our destruction of woodlands, what we needed all that material for, and what this pattern spells for our future. The new edition...
2023-02-0741 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 68-The Fig TreeSend us a textIn the beginning of February, the Jewish world will be celebrating Tu B'Shevat, a New Years holiday for trees! I celebrate alongside them every year by covering the biology and history of the Seven Species of Israel, the plants Moses' spies brought back to him proving that they had found the fertile Promised Land. This year, I'll be talking about the Common Fig Tree--exploring the depth of its connection in Abrahamic faith, comparing and contrasting it to other Figs I've covered, and diving deep into the wasps that give us these sweet, weird...
2023-01-2437 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 67-The Coffee TreeSend us a textThe roasted seed of the Coffee Tree helps me, and a billion other people, wake up and be productive every day. This alone gives it significance in our lives, but our relationship with this drink and the plant it comes from has left footprints throughout human history in the Common Era. Learn about where coffee came from, how it fueled modern capitalism, how it reflects our diverse cultures, and more. The music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram...
2023-01-1042 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 66-The YewSend us a textTo cap off 2022, we are returning to the Celtic Ogham Tree Calendar to look at the representative of the Winter Solstice: the Yew. This evergreen's toxicity has led it to carry heavy death symbolism and thus is used to mark the longest night and the end of the solar year. But its importance to humans is extensive beyond this time of year, with ancient evidence of tool use and modern application in medicine. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and...
2022-12-2729 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 65-Interview with PHS Tree Tenders (ft. Tim Ifill)Send us a text This week, I have my first ever guest on My Favorite Trees. Tim Ifill is the director of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society's Tree Tenders program. We talk about what the planning process is like for urban tree planting events, why they're important, and how you can get involved in planting trees in your neighborhood.For more information about the Tree Tenders, check out https://phsonline.org/programs/tree-programsAnd to sign up for the Tree Tenders' winter class, visit https://phsonline.org/events/tree-tenders-2022-winterMusic is by A...
2022-12-1337 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 64-The LarchSend us a text As winter begins to take hold of the land, we often look to conifers that stay green all year round for comfort. Except, there's one conifer that actually drops its needles in the fall! Learn about why the Larch breaks the mold and the importance far northern humans give this tree despite not being an evergreen. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-11-2922 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 63-The American ElmSend us a text Elms are some of the best trees to plant in our neighborhoods, thanks to their wide, shady crowns. For this alone, they are loved by many. But their significance extends throughout American history, from setting the stage of revolution to inspiring victims of tragedy in the modern day. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-11-1530 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 62-The Latex Tree Medley (Rubber and Chewing Gum)Send us a text Did you know that half of all rubber on the market comes from trees? And that chewing gum used to also be made from this same natural latex? The Para Rubber Tree and the Chicle Tree bring us stories of wealth corruption, World War II embargos, and the desperation of an exiled Mexican president. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-11-0122 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 61-Deadly Trees and Haunted ForestsSend us a textWith Halloween less than two weeks away, we're getting in the holiday spirit with a spooky topic. Why are we so afraid of the deep dark woods? Learn about the harmful trees we should certainly fear, the reason humans separated themselves from the wilderness, and what forests are the most haunted today. Content warning for self-harm and suicide; listener discretion is advised. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-10-1824 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 60-The Date PalmSend us a textDates are among the earliest tree crops cultivated by humans and retain cultural significance throughout the Middle East and the surrounding Arabic world. Date Palm trees are especially important in Jewish faith and see prominence in multiple holidays, like the upcoming Sukkot. Hear about the long history of these trees, the variety of uses and symbols associated with them, as well as why America turned its back on the fruit in the last century. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or...
2022-10-0428 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 59-The Douglas-FirSend us a textThe Douglas-Fir is one of the most iconic of the big trees that define the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Its wood is premier for lumber use across the western United States and its extensive human influence is surrounded by culture and story. This episode dives into those stories as well as exploring why this tree is not actually a Fir as well as the backgrounds of the Scottish botanists that contributed to its modern name. Music is by Academy Garden--cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and...
2022-09-2021 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 58-The PecanSend us a textNothing says Fall in Texas quite like a slice of pecan pie. This final nut of our miniseries is truly a staple of the American South as it does not grow anywhere else in the world! Learn about how this rich delight was almost overlooked as a crop, some controversy in its historic production, and how to actually pronounce the dang word itself. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow my on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-09-0616 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 57-The WalnutSend us a textThe walnut is considered by some to be the "King of Nuts." Part two of this three-part miniseries will explore why this food has historically been regarded as godly as well as some other unique features of various walnut species. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-08-2316 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 56-The AlmondSend us a textThis is the first part of a new miniseries focused on nut trees! Almonds are considered the largest nut crop in the world, but are they actually even nuts? Find out how this popular food traveled from Persia to California and learn the legends that have lead the almond to be found in our snack mixes, milks, and flours. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-08-0919 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 55-The Cork OakSend us a text Have you ever wondered where the cork in your wine bottle comes from? Or the cork in corkboard where you hang cheesy photos from high school and college? All cork products come from a single tree species known as the Cork Oak. Learn about how and why these oaks produce this versatile material as well as how human use actually helps their ecosystem. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-07-2616 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 54-The CycadSend us a textWhat many understand to be the age of the dinosaurs is, in the plant world, the age of the Cycad. These are weird plants that look like palms or ferns and made up most of the world's plant composition in the Jurassic Era. But some species are still around today--and in some unexpected places. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-07-1215 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 53-The MangroveSend us a textMangroves are incredible plants that survive the salty waters of tropical coastal areas. Learn about the fascinating ecosystems they create, the ways they help us mitigate Climate Change, and why their forests are shrinking. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-06-2822 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 52-Forest ManagementSend us a textThis is an episode where I cover a broad forestry topic. What exactly does it mean to manage a forest? I explain what being a forester and land manager is like from the perspective of various objectives like wood products and conservation. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-06-1425 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 51-Kentucky State Tree MedleySend us a textAs Kentucky celebrates its 230th birthday as a state, we will celebrate one of the strangest legal disputes in American history. For decades, Kentuckians fought over what should be their state tree between the Tulip-Poplar and the Kentucky Coffeetree. Find out why residents of this state became so divided over the matter and hear about how I side on the matter. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-05-3120 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 50-The Cacao TreeSend us a textChocolate. That's it, that's the episode. This is the tree that gives us one of my greatest joys in life--learn about where it comes from, how it was worshipped, and how it's made today. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-05-1723 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 49-The Longleaf PineSend us a textThe Longleaf Pine is a tree that once covered great expanses of the Gulf and Atlantic coastal states of the US. But now, these trees only occupy 3% of their original native range. What made this tree so incredible and why did it almost disappear? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-05-0319 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 48-The 150th Arbor DaySend us a text2022 marks 150 years since the first modern Arbor Day was celebrated in the state of Nebraska. We are honoring this occasion by looking into the history of Birdsey Northrop, the unsung hero of Arbor Day, who helped popularize the idea both in the US and internationally. And we'll learn about how tree planting holidays are celebrated in different countries around the world. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-04-1919 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 47-The RhododendronSend us a textSpring is here and that means it's time to celebrate Spring flowers. One of my favorite flowers belongs to a plant known as the Rhododendron. In this episode, I'll talk about the role it has played in the history of gardening as well as in the secret language of flowers. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-04-0521 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 46-The EucalyptusSend us a text Eucalyptus is a genus of around 700 trees and shrubs that call Australia and southeast Asia home. Hear about their wonderful fragrance, their vibrant colors, and their penchant for committing arson. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Find me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-03-2228 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 45-The American OaksSend us a text This episode covers the Oak species native to the United States. This incredibly diverse group of trees comes with an incredible history--from bourbon barrels to warships to murder mysteries, find out what makes the Oak so inherently American. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-03-0833 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 44-Ranger's Choice Medley (Limber Pine and Walking Palm)Send us a text This episode celebrates the birthdays of two park rangers who have inspired my own path as a ranger. To make both their dreams come true, we are talking about both the Limber Pine and the Walking Palm. These two are very different trees that tend to get less time in the spotlight compared to some of their relatives. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and on Instagram @treepodcast.
2022-02-2217 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 43-The JuniperSend us a textThe Juniper is a tree that can be found from the highest peaks to the doctor's office to the...bathtub? Medicine, food, gin, and more, these trees are incredibly useful but seem to hold surprisingly little symbolism throughout history. But they do come with some interesting superstition as well as a rant from me about what we call their cones! Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and Instragam @treepodcast.
2022-02-0824 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 42-Forest FiresSend us a textIn this break from format, I discuss my first broader forestry-related topic: forest fires. Fire is a part of this world that is important to both humans and forest ecology. But due to a century of strict fire suppression and the effects of climate change, wildfires have been having hugely negative effects on the American West in the last two decades. Here, I'll give a history of our relationship with fire, what decisions lead us to be in the situation we are in today, and lay out just how bad things really are...
2022-01-2544 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 41-The Olive TreeSend us a textSundown on January the 16th marks the beginning of Tu B'Shevat 2022. For the second year in a row, I've decided to celebrate this Jewish Tree New Year by covering one of the Seven Species of Israel. This time, it's the olive's turn. Olive trees have held importance to humans for thousands of years—not just as a food source but also for the many uses of olive oil as well as the tree's symbol of peace and prosperity. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Fa...
2022-01-1126 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 40-The BirchSend us a text We're once again revisiting the Celtic Ogham Tree calendar to finally cover the first month, named for the Birch Tree. This tree's symbolism of regeneration has made it a perfect tree to kick off the new year and its beauty and usefulness have made it well-loved throughout the northern hemisphere. You'll finally learn what my very favorite tree is and hear my opinions on Birch Beer! Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees or on Instagram @treepodcast.
2021-12-2829 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 39-The Bodhi TreeSend us a textThere's more than one December holiday that centers around a tree! Bodhi Day celebrates that day when Siddhartha Gautama sat under a Bodhi Tree, achieved Enlightenment, and became the Buddha. Find out how this tree helped start a new religion and how you can celebrate this holiday in the modern-day. Music is by Acadamy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees and now on Instagram @TreePodcast!
2021-12-1419 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 38-The Maple RevisitedSend us a textWe know how the Sugar Maple became so famous, but what about all the other Maples? Hear how the rest of the Maple trees have influenced cultures around the world. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-11-1620 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 37-The Cedar of LebanonSend us a textThe Cedar of Lebanon is a symbol of national pride featured on its home country's flag and in the oldest preserved human legends. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-11-0217 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 36-The Apple TreeSend us a textIn the third and final installment of my fruit series, I talk about the Apple Tree. The apple is perhaps the oldest cultivated and most well-known fruit in the world. What symbolism has a tree so long in our culture earned and how did apple pie become so intertwined with American culture? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-10-1924 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 35-The Coconut TreeSend us a textPart 2 of my fruit tree series is about the Coconut Tree. The coconut is synonymous with island time—warm breezes and chill vibes. Hear how these long, skinny trees became an iconic feature of warm beaches around the world. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-10-0523 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 34-The CitronSend us a textIn this part of my fruit tree series, I discuss the origin of citrus fruits. The citron is one such tree that has influenced multiple religions and has sired many of the modern citruses we know today. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-09-2121 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 33-The GinkgoSend us a textThe Ginkgo is an incredibly fascinating species that has changed relatively little over the last 200 million years. Where are its relatives and how did this fossil survive? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-09-0726 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 32-The Bristlecone PineSend us a textHow old is the oldest living organism? Bristlecone Pines can live for thousands of years and their ancient forms have taught us much about our past. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-08-2423 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 31-The HazelSend us a textThis will be the last Celtic Ogham Tree I cover for the rest of this year. Hazelnuts have served as an important food source for humans since the early days of settlement on the British Isles. It now exists as a symbol of wisdom and plays a key role in the introduction of Ireland's greatest hero. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-08-1024 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 30-The Dragon's Blood TreeSend us a textOn the island of Socotra, there lives a tree that looks unlike any other and bleeds red blood. Learn what this tree can teach us about a dead ecosystem and what we can do to save other ecosystems in the face of man-made climate change. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-07-2721 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 29-The English HollySend us a textThe 8th month of the Celtic Ogham Tree Calendar is named for the Holly. But isn't the Holly a symbol of Christmastime? Why do we see it represented by a summer month? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-07-1316 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 28-The Ohio BuckeyeSend us a textNo one loves a tree as much as Ohioans love their Buckeyes. How did this infatuation come to be and what has it driven them to do? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-06-2920 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 27-The English OakSend us a textThe oak is a symbol of strength—throughout time and in every culture that lives alongside it. Hear how this imposing European tree connects our ancient mythologies. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-06-1523 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 26-The LindenSend us a textIn this episode, I talk about the Lime Tree—not the green citrus, but a tree known as the Basswood or Linden. This tree symbolized love in Greco-Roman culture, justice and peace in Germanic Tribes, and holds similar importance to this day. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-06-0118 minMy Favorite TreesQ&ASend us a textBefore I switch to scheduled episodes every other week, I wanted to take some time to reflect on the first 6 months of this show and answer questions from you, the listeners. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-05-1824 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 25-The Spice Trees 2 (The Spice Islands)Send us a textThe back half of this Spice Tree series is about the trees found on the Spice Islands of Indonesia, where we get nutmeg, mace, and clove. Find out why Dutch colonialism makes me sad every time I open my spice cabinet! Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-05-1129 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 24-The Spice Trees 1 (Cinnamon and Peppercorn)Send us a textIn the first half of my spice tree series, I introduce the stories that Arab traders used to build a monopoly of mystery around cinnamon and pepper. What happens when their secret origins are discovered by Europeans? Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-05-0423 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 23-The Cottonwood and Arbor DaySend us a textThis week is the United State's observance of Arbor Day. Hear the story of how this tree-planting holiday came to be and learn about a tree with terrific importance to the native tribes and pioneers who lived in the Great Plains. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-04-2722 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 22-The WillowSend us a textThe episode celebrates the fifth month of the Celtic Ogham Tree Calendar, the Willow Moon. The Willow is a tree known throughout the world as a symbol of femininity, magic, and grief. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-04-2026 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 21-The LaurelSend us a textAnother listener requested tree, the Laurel has continued to be a mainstay in various cultures thanks to its symbolism of achievement, uses in the kitchen, and root for several common names. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees. Special thanks to Fesliyan Studios for some sound effects in this episode.
2021-04-1322 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 20-The HemlockSend us a textA listener-requested tree! The Hemlocks of North America are conifers known for their flexibility and ability to withstand harsh winters. Find out what stories indigenous peoples had about these evergreens and let me know what trees you want to hear about in future episodes! Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-04-0620 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 19-The CherrySend us a textDelicious fruit, lovely spring flowers, and gorgeous wood. Cherry trees serve many purposes to humans around the world, but where do they come from and what do we mean when we say "cherry?" Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-03-3020 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 18-The AlderSend us a textWe are now in month four of the Celtic Ogham Calendar, the Alder Moon! This semi-aquatic tree is tied to the Spring Equinox, fairies, the floating city of Venice, and more. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-03-2317 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 17-The Bradford PearSend us a textWe're turning the podcast on its head this week and instead talking about one of my LEAST favorite trees. Come listen to me rant about smelly flowers and brittle wood. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-03-1613 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 16-The Giant SequoiaSend us a textThis is part two of my biggest trees two-parter. This week I talk about the world's largest living thing by volume, the Giant Sequoia. Native to the western slopes of the Sierra Nevadas of California, this giant inspired a series of land conservation efforts. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Find me on Twitter and Facebook @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-03-0918 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 15-The Coast RedwoodSend us a textThis is part one of my miniseries about the world's biggest trees. This week I talk about the world's tallest tree, the Coast Redwood. Native to the foggy northern California coast, this tree can grow to be almost 400ft tall and forms some of the most out-of-this-world forests. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-03-0221 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 14-The AshSend us a textThis week we continue to discuss the trees of the Celtic Ogham Calendar. Ashes are trees found across the Northern Hemisphere and have influenced culture and language heavily both in Europe and North America. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-02-2321 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 13-The BaobabSend us a textThis episode is about our first southern hemisphere tree: The Baobab! This utterly strange looking tree is a source of food and medicine for the people of Africa as well as a source for many different stories. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover Art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-02-1622 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 12-The Sitka SpruceSend us a textThis episode takes us to the Pacific Northwest to talk about one of the western giants, the Sitka Spruce. Aside from being one of the biggest trees in the world, the Sitka Spruce is also noteworthy for its roles in tribal cultures, the Alaskan economy, and the 20th century World Wars. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-02-0918 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 11-The RowanSend us a textAccording to the Celtic Ogham Calendar, we are in the month known as the Rowan Moon. This episode is about the Rowan, its magical properties, and the role it’s played in religions across northern Europe. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-02-0216 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 10-The Pomegranate (Tree New Year)Send us a textThis week features the Jewish holiday Tu B'shevat, a sort of Tree New Year. To celebrate, I am talking about one of the Seven Species of the Jewish faith, the Pomegranate. This small tree is extensively tied to human history, considering it was one of the first fruits cultivated by humans. Hear the story of its long journey and celebrate Tree New Year with me. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-01-2625 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 9-The American ChestnutSend us a textThis episode is about the tragedy of the American Chestnut. A species once 4 billion trees strong and integral feature of Appalachian culture now critically endangered and functionally extinct. Please consider donating to the American Chestnut Foundation to help bring this piece of America back.
2021-01-1919 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 8-The BanyanSend us a textKnown as the Strangler Fig and the Walking tree, the Banyan is an iconic feature of the country of India and holds extensive symbolism throughout Hindu culture. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-01-1215 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 7-The Southern MagnoliaSend us a textIn this episode, I talk about one of the most loved trees of the American South. The Southern Magnolia has played an important role in the study of prehistoric plants and has been featured as an iconic piece of US presidential history. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2021-01-0518 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 6-The Christmas TreeSend us a textIn this episode, I talk about evergreens and the roles they've played in winter holidays throughout history. Then I talk about how those traditions have developed into the modern day and discuss what I think makes for the perfect Christmas Tree. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavorite Trees.
2020-12-1517 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 5-The AspenSend us a textIn this episode, I talk about the Aspen, a tree with incredibly unique biological adaptations that holds great importance in the realm of forest conservation. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees. Special thanks to fesliyanstudios.com for a fun audio clip.
2020-12-0821 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 4-The Princess TreeSend us a textIn this episode I talk about the Princess Tree. Native to East Asia, this tree is planted worldwide for its lovely Spring flowers and also played an interesting role in the marriage practices of China and Japan. Theme music is by Academy Garden, cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram, I am @MyFavoriteTrees on Twitter.
2020-12-0111 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 3-The Eastern White PineSend us a textIn this episode, I tell you all about the Eastern White Pine and the role it played as a catalyst for the American Revolution. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2020-11-2416 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 2-The Sugar MapleSend us a textIn this episode, I tell you all about the Sugar Maple. This tree is the symbol of Canadian culture, boasts incredible fall foliage, and provides us with high-quality wood and delicious syrup. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.
2020-11-1716 minMy Favorite TreesEp. 1-What Are Trees?Send us a textThis is the pilot episode for my new podcast, My Favorite Trees. Subsequent episodes will cover how specific tree species have played important roles in various human cultures. This first episode broadly talks about what makes a tree a tree and how trees affect us in general. Below, you’ll find the sources where I did my research for this episode. Music is by Academy Garden. Cover art is by @boomerangbrit on Instagram. Follow me on Twitter @MyFavoriteTrees.https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/2636-what-is-a-treehttps://www.newscientist.com/article/mg...
2020-11-1017 min