Christopher Heckscher, a professor of environmental science, discusses his research on the Vireo bird and its correlation to hurricane seasons. He explains that the Vireo bird is a neotropical migrant that migrates between North and South America twice a year. He has been studying the bird’s behavior and breeding patterns for over 26 years. He found that the birds that nest later in the summer and take longer to bring off their young tend to depart for migration later and enter South America...

In this conversation, Justin Ancheta and Sofia Avramides discuss their experiences as herbalists and the challenges they face in the modern world. They talk about the differences in herbalism between different regions, such as the Northeast and Southern California. They also explore the use of specific plants like mallow and olive leaf for medicinal purposes. The conversation touches on the importance of bio orientation and connecting with the local environment. They also discuss the role of...

Caroline Wernicke from the University of Delaware discusses using sharks as ocean observing platforms to collect data for predicting weather patterns. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing different stakeholders' interests in environmental management, the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge, and the potential benefits and risks of seaweed farming. 

The conversation with herbalist Jim McDonald delves into the essence of herbalism, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, wonder, and the interconnectedness of nature. Jim's teaching style and approach to herbalism are highlighted, along with his deep connection to place and the plants around him. The conversation also explores the concept of interdependence, the role of local herbalists, and the significance of learning with an open mind.

Monish from Coolant discusses the work of the startup company in enhancing cooling and air conditioning using natural materials. The company aims to bring back the basics of passive design and make it accessible to the masses. They draw inspiration from nature and traditional architecture to create climate-responsive buildings. Coolant believes in open-source solutions and making their designs public to contribute to the greater good. The challenges they face include the need for patience and...

Peter Andrews of Culture Wine Company shares his journey from cooking school to the wine industry, emphasizing the importance of taste and the impact of natural and minimal intervention in winemaking. He discusses the challenges and rewards of working with natural wine producers and the impact of Mother Nature on the wine industry. The conversation delves into the complexities of winemaking, the impact of weather on grape ripeness, the challenges of producing balanced wines, and the concept...

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Stephen Horn, a seasoned herbalist with four decades of experience in natural healing. Stephen shares his inspiring journey into herbal remedies, discussing the limitations of modern medicine and the profound benefits of a holistic approach to health. Dive deep into topics such as the germ vs. terrain theory, the critical role of antibiotics, and the interconnectedness of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Discover the power of...

The conversation covers the impact of dead zones on aquatic habitats, the causes of dead zones, the role of nutrients in dead zone formation, the historical context of dead zones, the impact of agriculture and biofuels on dead zones, and the trade-offs associated with reducing dead zones

The conversation explores the history and cultural significance of lawns in America. It begins with the author's research on lawn ornaments and transitions to the topic of front lawns. The origins of lawns in England and their adoption in America are discussed, as well as the development of suburbs and the influence of golf on lawn aesthetics. The conversation also delves into the role of advertising in promoting the ideal lawn and the societal pressure to maintain it. The conversation...

The conversation explores the intersection of Western reductionist science and traditional Indian knowledge systems. It discusses the different approaches to knowledge generation, with Western science focusing on analytical knowledge and traditional Indian systems emphasizing holistic knowledge. The conversation also touches on the potential of ancient texts and observations to inform modern weather forecasting and climate change predictions. However, there are challenges in integrating...

The conversation explores the connection between the landscape and the sky in the Andes, particularly in Peru. It delves into the astronomy and cosmology of the Inca civilization, focusing on their calendar system and their mapping of the stars to the physical geography of the earth. 

David Kirchman is a professor Emeritus of Marine Biosciences and author of Dead Zones: The loss of oxygen from rivers, lakes, and oceans. We discuss the fascinating origins of Dead Zones, the politics around them and solutions we can all take part in.

Virginia Jenkins is a scholar and author who was ahead of her time in chronicling the advertising industries deliberate creation of the American lawn and the ecological catastrophe that has ensued. Local politics, pissed off neighbors and the fight that continues today to create a new vision of an outdated pastime.