113. Houseplants, Diabolical Weeds, and Fickle Figs- Winter 2025 Q&A

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This episode is a delightful exploration of listener-submitted plant questions, offering insights into plant care, specific plant challenges, and the relationship between environmental conditions and plant health. 

- Overview of the seasonal Q&A format 
- Discussion on controlling bindweed and morning glory 
- Humidity’s nuanced effect on plant health 
- Benefits of indoor plants on air quality 
- Recommended houseplants for low-light conditions 
- Host reflections on wisdom and community in plant care 

If you enjoyed this episode and want to dive deeper into plant knowledge, be sure to share with your friends or leave us a review!

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As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

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• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

• ...

112. Gardening, Building Community, and BLT Sandwiches

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This episode emphasizes the importance of community, realistic expectations, and small beginnings in gardening. We explore how to nurture connections with neighbors, set achievable goals, and adapt to various living conditions to create a rewarding gardening experience. 
• Understanding why content creators should be careful with gardening recommendations 
• Setting realistic expectations about food production at home 
• The vital role of community in successful gardening practices 
• The benefits of starting small to prevent burnout and build confidence 
• How climate zones affect plant selection and gardening success 
• Encouragement to grow what you love for a more sustainable gardening journey 
• Practical advice on basic tools and soil preparation techniques 
• An overview of seed starting and maintenance strategies 
• The significance of planning for pest management and post-harvest practices

Support the show

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

111. Dragon Fruits, Lichen, and the Most Important Plant Thing- Summer 2024 Q&A

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What's up Plant People?? It's been a minute since our last Q&A episode, and I have some good ones for you today! Thanks to @marahw1999, @honukaimi, and Shannon Perry (oz9podcast)  for the outstanding questions!

Be sure to check out the Lubbock Arts Alliance on Instagram and their other socials to learn more about Delightful Fantasy Flowers and enter for a chance to win some cool swag!

Oh, and if you'd like to watch a cool time lapse of a dragon fruit blooming, you can find that on my Instagram!

Support the show

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

• ...

110. Habitats, Invasive Species, and Possibly Antagonistic Bear Interactions w/ Ashley Bray

Get ready to unravel the fascinating world of wildlife biology and plant science as we sit down with Ashley Bray, the insightful host of the Get Out Alive podcast. Have you ever wondered how the dynamics between plants and animals shape our ecosystems? Ashley shares her inspiring journey from childhood animal enthusiast to wildlife biologist, overcoming early academic hurdles and reshaping career expectations. We delve into the essential relationship between plant and animal ecosystems, illustrating how habitat destruction, invasive species, and animal behaviors impact plant populations and vice versa.

Explore the evolutionary chess game between giraffes and acacia trees, revealing how these magnificent creatures and resilient plants have developed unique adaptations over millennia. From the buff-tailed sickleback hummingbird's specialized relationship with Heliconia flowers to the seasonal dietary shifts of white-tailed deer, we spotlight the complex and often delicate balance that underpins our natural world. The importance of respecting and preserving these natural processes is underscored, highlighting the need for minimal human interference to ensure the survival and health of wildlife.

As we navigate conservation challenges, Ashley provides insights into the role of fire in ecosystem health, the plight of monarch butterflies, and the increasing presence of black bears in urban areas. Learn about the critical role science communication and podcasting play in debunking myths and spreading awareness about wildlife. From personal stories of animal encounters to the importance of maintaining natural habitats, this episode promises a rich tapestry of knowledge and inspiration for anyone passionate about the environment. Join us for this enlightening discussion, packed with real-world experiences and expert insights that will deepen your appreciation for the interconnectedness of our natural world.

Support the Show.

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

• ...

109. Food as Knowledge, Eating Equitably, and Digital Literacy w/ Dr. Sarah Duignan

What's up, Plant People? Join us as we welcome Dr. Sarah Duignan, the host of the AnthroDish podcast and a medical anthropologist, on a remarkable journey navigating food anthropology and community health. From her roots in Ontario, where a deep connection with nature began shaping her career, Sarah takes us through her academic route via Trent University, the University of Manitoba, and McMaster University. Discover how her passion transitioned from the study of ancient skeletal populations to a focus on modern community-based health, revealing the profound connections between food, culture, and everyday wellness.

Our conversation uncovers the personal trials and triumphs of balancing a career in anthropology with roles in water studies and food systems. Sarah candidly shares her experiences as a single parent and a PhD student, illuminating the universal challenges of food access and security in Canada and the United States. We tackle pressing issues like skyrocketing food prices and increasing reliance on food banks, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to understanding environment and climate in the post-2020 world.

As we delve deeper, Sarah offers insightful perspectives on food ethics, community initiatives, and the cultural significance of food. Hear about the power of grassroots movements, the evolving landscape of food guidelines, and the influence of digital platforms like TikTok in shaping food knowledge. This episode is a rich tapestry of academic insights and personal stories, promising listeners a thought-provoking exploration of how food intersects with identity, culture, and societal structures.

Sarah's Links
AnthroDish
Substack
Instagram
TikTok
Twitter
Threads
YouTube
Facebook

Support the Show.

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

• ...

108. Loving Food, Starving Trolls, and Life as a Nutrivore w/ Dr. Sarah Ballantyne

If you've ever wondered how to enrich your diet without falling prey to restrictive eating, Dr. Sarah Ballantyne, the brain behind the Nutrivore philosophy, joins us to illuminate the path towards optimal nutrition. Through our engaging dialogue, Sarah shares her transformative journey from research scientist to a passionate advocate for nutrition and health communication. We navigate her personal health challenges and how they led to the birth of Nutrivore, a way of life that promotes a non-restrictive, nutrient-dense diet, empowering us to make informed choices about the food we eat.

We wrap up by tackling the accessibility of nutritious food, debunking the myth that healthful eating is an expensive endeavor. With a spotlight on resources like Nutrivore.com, we're reminded of the attainable nature of a healthy diet. The conversation also covers the communal effort behind Sarah's book publishing journey and the importance of effective communication in the wellness community. And, for a warm-hearted twist, you'll learn about the unexpected joy and love a furry companion can bring into your life. Join us on this episode for an enlightening exploration of how nutrient-dense eating can lead you to a happier, healthier life.

Check out Sarah's links below and pick up a copy of Nutrivore and other Nutrivore Resources for youself!

Buy Nutrivore!
Nutrivore.com
Nutrivore Digital Resources
Instagram
Facebook
Threads
Tiktok

Support the Show.

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

107. Deep Dive- Crisis Communication in Agriculture with Dr. Erica Irlbeck

What's up, Plant People?? It's our first Deep Dive episode in quite a while. I was super excited to get to talk to my friend, Dr. Erica Irlbeck, again on the show. Erica is a Professor of Ag Communications, the Associate Dean of Outreach and Engagement for the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Texas Tech, and the author of the Crisis Communication Guide for Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. We talked about everything from good communication, to working with the media, to life in academia, and so much more. It was a fun and insightful conversation, and I know you're going to get a lot out of it! Get in contact with Erica and pick up a copy of her book from the links below!

Erica's Faculty Page
Erica's Instagram
The Crisis Communications Guide for Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

Support the Show.

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

106. Conservation Dogs, Spotted Lanternflies, and Horrifying Elevators w/ Melissa McCue-McGrath

Ever find yourself marveling at the uncanny connection you share with your furry best friend? Our latest podcast episode takes us on an expedition into the heart of human-canine relationships, with Melissa McCue-McGrath, a true trailblazer in dog training and conservation, leading the way. Celebrating Melissa's birthday, we tap into her wealth of knowledge, from the psychological bonds we forge with our dogs to their astonishing roles in ecological conservation.

Navigate the bustling world of urban canines with us as we examine the sensory challenges these city dwellers face and the importance of fulfilling their intrinsic needs. Discover how the power of scent enriches a dog's life and strengthens our bond with them. Then, we shift to the open fields, where working dogs like border collies find joy and purpose in tasks that tap into their natural instincts. These stories are not just about companionship; they're about acknowledging and harnessing the innate drives that make our dogs feel most alive.

Turning the focus beyond companionship, this episode also shines a light on the critical environmental work dogs are carrying out. From tracking down invasive species like the spotted lanternfly to assisting in marine biology research, our four-legged friends are on the front lines, aiding in the protection of our ecosystems. As we wrap up, we touch on the cozy debate about dogs sharing our beds and the warmth of the bonds we share. Join me, Vikram Baliga, for an enlightening journey through the remarkable world where humans and dogs meet, work, and thrive together.

Find all things Melissa, book her for dog training, and pick up her book on her website, and follow her on Instagram!

Support the show

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

105. Native Plants, Academic Optimism, and Liquid Smoke w/ Dr. Robert Cox

What's up, Plant People?? I hope you're well! My guest today is a long-time mentor and friend, Dr. Robert Cox.  Dr. Cox is a restoration ecologist whose wisdom in prairie ecosystems and passion for academia are as deep-rooted as the native species he studies. This episode is full of stories from Dr. Cox's academic adventures, which began in herpetology and evolved into the long-time study of plant ecology. We discussed a little bit of everything, from some of the roles fire and smoke play in plant germination to how Dr. Cox's career has ranged from researcher, to professor, to an Associate Dean at Texas Tech University. 

We also had an encouraging conversation about the future of our students and education as a whole. Dr. Cox paints an optimistic and inspiring picture of the young minds that walk the halls of higher education today, shaped by the rapid changes of our times. Together, we reflect on the paradigm shift in teaching, moving from information dispensers to mentors in critical thinking. 

Finally, we spent some time chatting about native plants and the roles they play in our world. Ecological restoration has been one of Dr. Cox's major areas of focus throughout his career, and he has some really interesting and meaningful thoughts on what it means to restore a landscape and an ecosystem in light of climate change and our needs for agricultural production. I learned a lot from this conversation and left it feeling encouraged, and I hope that you'll feel the same!

Support the show

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout.

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

• Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

104. Hope Springs Eternal

What's up, Plant People?? Living through all the *unprecedented times* we have been over the past few years has really gotten old. I think a lot fewer things should be getting precedented, but that's just me. We could all use a little more hope in our lives because, as Dr. Katharine Hayhoe discussed in Episode 102, it's the thing that drives us to change and positive action. Here at the beginning of Spring this year, I wanted to talk about a couple of stories I found recently which brought me a little bit of hope. Be good, be safe, and be kind, my friends, and never give up hope!

Reclaimed Coal Mine Story
Plants Are Better Than We Thought at Sequestering Carbon

Support the show

As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It really helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! Also, check out Planthropology on our website and various social media pages, all listed below. As an added bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!

Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts.

Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com

• Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology

• Facebook: Planthropology

• Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People

• Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod

• Twitter: @Planthropology_

• e-mail: planthropologypod@gmail.com