Tree Talks Podcast

Danny Draper joins us for a conversation about scar trees — living artifacts shaped by people and time. Danny unpacks what these trees can teach us about history, resilience, and our relationship with the land, offering a perspective that blends arboriculture with storytelling and cultural awareness.We also explore what it means to live in the world of nature rather than simply observe it. Danny shares his experiences working in the urban forest, the quiet lessons he’s learned from the landscape, and why truly understanding trees requires slowing down, paying attention, and respecting the life systems we’re part of. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Sitara Gare, from Brisbane, to explore the heart and science behind her immersive tree‑connection workshops. With over two decades of experience as a horticulturalist, arborist, and urban forester, Sitara shares how her journey—spanning counselling and healing through burnout—led her to helping others unlock the wisdom of trees. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ben Kenyon from Homewood consulting, a third-generation arborist, shares the unique perspective that comes with growing up in a family steeped in arborist tradition, the challenges and rewards of carrying on a legacy, and how his passion for trees has shaped both his career and personal philosophy. Tune in for an inspiring look at what it means to nurture and protect our natural environment, generation after generation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Tree Talks, we're joined by Jacki Brown, a consultant arborist from NSW and dedicated volunteer with the Institute of Australian Consulting Arboriculturists (IACA). Jacki shares her insights into the recent updates to the Australian Standard for the Protection of Trees on Development Sites (AS 4970). Tune in to learn what these changes mean for arborists, developers, and anyone passionate about preserving trees in our urban landscapes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Tree Talks, we chat with Dr. Kathryn Allen from the University of Tasmania about the delicate balance between forests, climate, and community. Dr. Allen shares insights from her research on ecosystem resilience, discusses Tasmania’s vital role in global climate science, and reflects on how science and local knowledge can work hand in hand to protect our natural environment. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation for anyone passionate about trees and the future of our planet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Tree Talks, we sit down with the incredibly talented Emma Cutting, the visionary behind Heartscapes. Emma shares her journey of blending art and nature to create emotional, immersive landscapes that speak to the heart. We dive deep into her creative process, how nature inspires her work, and the healing power of connecting with the earth through art. Whether you're an artist, a nature lover, or someone looking to find a deeper connection to the world around you, this conversation will leave you inspired and connected to the beauty of life’s natural rhythms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Tree Talks Podcast, we chat with Chelsea Robertson, a dedicated arborist from New Zealand and member of the New Zealand Arboriculture Association. Chelsea shares her journey from a nature-filled childhood, climbing trees and exploring forests, to her career in arboriculture. She reflects on how her early love for trees evolved into a profession, recounting the challenges she faced, the mentors who inspired her, and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. Chelsea also discusses her role in promoting sustainable tree care and her work with the New Zealand Arboriculture Association, offering insights into the technical and emotional aspects of her field.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Tree Talks Podcast, we delve into the inspiring journey of Stephanie Dryhout, a world champion tree climber from New Zealand. Stephanie’s connection to trees began in the nursery, where she cultivated new life by starting trees from seeds. Over time, her passion for trees grew into a remarkable career in competitive tree climbing. She shares her experiences in the sport, the skills and mindset required to excel, and how her early work in nurturing trees continues to influence her perspective today.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tree Talks Podcast is honored to speak with Zane Wedding, a Māori speaker from Aotearoa, New Zealand. Zane's perspective offers valuable insights into the intersection of Indigenous knowledge and the natural world. He shares his experiences and wisdom, highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship and cultural connection to the land. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season 3 dives into the vital work of restoring and preserving our forests with Alex Jardine from Heartwood Habitat. Alex shares insights into the organisation's innovative approaches to habitat restoration and the critical role of forest ecosystems. We explore the challenges and successes of their projects, the importance of community involvement, and how Heartwood Habitat is making a tangible difference in the health of our natural world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mona Bruckhoff, host of Tree Talks Podcast shared reflections of Season 2 with top fan Lua Bruckhoff. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the last episode for season 2, we hear from Sam Hardingham who runs EverydayArbor. Sam lets us learn about a fresh approach in the arboriculture industry geared for sustainable tree care and focuses on eco-friendly practices. We explore his background in arboriculture and his passion for promoting environmentally responsible methods. EverydayArbor, is committed to offering professional tree management services while highlighting the importance of environmental stewardship. Sam stands out by educating clients on the benefits of proper tree care and the significance of maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Branch Dwellers established in 2019 by Ben Fentiman and Katie Gibson who are both dedicated tree climbers and passionate about bringing the sport to New Zealand. Based in Dunedin, NZ, Ben who is an Arboriculture lecturer at Otago Polytehnic and Katie who studied Forest Science in Canada are on an amazing journey to show the general public a way to enjoy and experience trees on a different level. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tree Projects based in Tasmania started from pure passion of trees. Married couple Dr Jen Sanger and Steven Pearce created Tree Projects to help educate community, advocate and inspire anyone that takes the time to listen and see what they do. We get to sit down with Steven and have an animated and passionate chat about the history of this environmental outreach organisation. Stevens passion for adventure and trees has been assisting people engage with forests in various ways from tree climbing, informative videos and documentaries and not forgetting the iconic tree portraits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tree Talks Podcast Branches out into the world of Arboriculture in the UK, talking to the CEO of Arboricultural Association, John Parker. Learning about the amazing work the Arboricultural Association are doing to promote the industry and help raise awareness to community about the importance of arborists, to maintain trees in our landscape. John has an energy that ignites others and empowers people to strive for better outcomes when working with and for trees. We hope you enjoy getting to know more about him in this episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tree Talks Podcast spends some time with Jordan Crook, a Parks and Nature Campaigner for Victorian National Parks Association (VNPA). Jordan worked on a report in March 2024 for public land managers and anyone who wishes to advocate for the protection of significant trees on public land. For many years Jordan has been a voice for the trees and wildlife within Victoria as a volunteer, arborists and land conservationist. Jordans passion and enthusiasm is a breath of fresh air and helps to empower individuals to understand the power we have to help care for our landscape. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tree Talks Podcast spends some time catching up with Maria, a Bushfire/ Ecologist and Arboricultural Consultant from Victoria. Tree Talks got to know Maria through the Victorias Womens Workshops where Maria spoke about the connections and learnings Arborists and Ecologists can share to promote better outcomes. Listen to what else Maria has been up to, episode out now. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Part 2. The Arboriculture Australia National Conference 2024 brings together industry leaders to discuss topics around getting back to practical arboriculture. Tree Talks Podcast spent two days after the national climbing championships, talking to those who attended and supported these events. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Australia's best tree climbers will battle it out for the national title. 30+ arborists and talented tree climbers will compete in the Australian Tree Climbing Championship on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 April 2024 at Treasury Gardens in Naarm (Melbourne). Tree Talks Podcast will go behind the scenes to talk to the event sponsors, organisers, volunteers and of course the climbers, to get a glimpse of what goes on in these events... Caution Australian language used! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conservation arborist, world champion climber and Husqvarna ambassador, Kiah Martin, shares her journey of perusing a career with trees. Tree Talks Podcast listens to how Kiah has traversed through the ages, carving a new pathway for women in arboriculture and inspiring the next generation of arborists. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.