Plant Cunning Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 196: Juliet Howard and the Girl Whose Garden Comes Alive Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode we sit down with herbalist, musician and author Juliet Howard about her new book The Girl Whose Garden Comes Alive Juliet's relationship to plant magic began at a very early age living on the wild cliffs of the Oregon coast. Her approach to herbalism comes from a deep reverence for plants through an animist perspective. The purpose of her work is to help people come home to themselves through fostering deeper relationships to plants and the natural world. Her strong conviction is that plants are a powerful portal into the magic and wonder of being alive and embodied.#Herbalism #ChildrensBooks #NatureLovers

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:31 Meet Juliet Howard: Herbalist, Musician, and Author

01:35 Juliet's Journey to Herbalism

05:03 Introducing Juliet's New Book for Children

05:21 The Inspiration Behind the Book

05:30 Teaching Kids About Plant Relationships

06:37 Engaging Activities for Kids

10:32 Juliet's Connection with Nature and Children

16:03 Memories of Childhood and Nature

20:22 Encouraging Kids to Connect with Nature

24:29 The Influence of Peer Pressure on Trying New Things

24:58 Exploring the Elder Chapter in the Book

27:54 The Joy of Making Herbal Preparations

29:14 Diving into Flower Essences

34:38 Personal Stories and Surprising Plant Connections

43:18 How to Get in Touch and Buy the Book

Ep. 195: Woven Roots with Deatra Cohen & Adam Siegel Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode we explore the intertwined realms of Jewish herbalism, history, and cultural exchange with returning guests Deatra Cohen and Adam Siegel. The authors discuss their new book, 'Woven Roots,' which explores the rich and complex history of Jewish herbalism in Eastern Europe. From the significance of Valerian and Sea Buckthorn to magical healing traditions and midwifery, this episode unveils the deep connections between plants and people across centuries. Don't miss out on their personal stories, research findings, and fascinating insights into community care and mutual aid within diverse Eastern European cultures. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more engaging content!

00:00 Introduction and Announcements

02:35 Welcoming the Guests: Deatra Cohen and Adam Siegel

05:08 Discussing the New Book: Woven Roots

12:10 The Pale of Settlement: A Cultural Tapestry

18:36 Healing Traditions and Cross-Cultural Exchanges

34:32 Magic and Medicine in the Pale

39:19 Wax Divination and the Evil Eye

40:23 The Significance of the Number Nine

42:14 Shamanic Figures and Healing Practices

44:41 Magical Healing Traditions

48:08 Exploring the Plant Sanicle

55:53 Sea Buckthorn and Its Uses

59:53 Valerian: Uses and Effects

01:03:21 Vervain and Personal Experiences

01:06:34 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ep. 194: Sri Kutupananda Nath on Weather Magic and the Spiritual Path Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode AC and Isaac Hill delve into the spiritual world with guest, Sri Kutupananda Nath, a Tantric practitioner from South India. Listen as we explore the fascinating topics of Advaita Vedanta vs. Tantra, weather magic, and working with deities. Nath shares his experiences with Indra, Baglamukhi, and the importance of initiation, along with insights from his new book, 'My Experiences With Rain.' Whether you're interested in ancient technologies, the spiritual path, or Vedic astrology, this episode has something for you. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more intriguing discussions! #PlantCunningPodcast #SpiritualJourney #WeatherMagic #Tantra #AdvaitaVedanta

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

02:47 Meet Our Guest: Sri Kutupananda Nath

03:22 Sri Kutupananda Nath's Spiritual Journey

05:38 Understanding Prana Shakti and Kundalini

11:31 Exploring Different Spiritual Traditions

18:19 Working with Weather Magic and Baglamukhi

28:48 Applications of Plant Practices

29:13 Weather Manipulation Techniques

31:06 Cosmology of the Five Fires

33:03 The Significance of Homa and Mantras

36:14 Ethics and Consequences of Weather Influence

44:50 The Role of Frogs in Weather Patterns

48:40 Current Projects and Contact Information

50:13 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections

Ep.193: Wendy Dooner and Plant Spirit Herbalism Aug 06, 2025

Show notes

Join us for an enlightening conversation on the Plant Cunning Podcast with medical herbalist and author Wendy Dooner! (https://www.wendydooner.com/) In this episode, we delve into Wendy's unique journey from conventional herbalism to plant spirit medicine. Learn about her pivotal experiences, the plants that guide her work, and how she integrates science with spirituality. Wendy also shares insights on working with midlife women, the transformative power of herbs like rosemary and nettle seed, and the concept of re-enchanting your life through daily practices. Don't miss this thrilling exploration of holistic healing, the mysteries of nature, and the wisdom of plants! 🌿✨ #PlantSpiritMedicine #Herbalism #WendyDooner #NaturalHealing #HolisticHealth #Podcast #PlantWisdom #Spirituality #NatureLovers

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:33 Special Guest: Wendy Dooner

01:48 Wendy's Journey into Herbalism

04:08 The Awakening: From Science to Spirit

07:59 Integrating Science and Spirituality

19:51 Wendy's Holistic Practice

23:18 Writing and Teaching: Wendy's Contributions

31:08 Road Games with Rosemary: Finding Joy in Simple Moments

32:03 Re-Enchanting Life Through Play and Attention

36:30 The Power of Herbs in Perimenopause

41:51 Nettle Seeds: A Key Ally for Perimenopause

46:32 Embracing Midlife Transitions

54:10 Primrose and Other Transition Herbs

01:00:07 Final Thoughts and How to Connect with Wendy

Ep.192: Mychal A. Bryan on Medical Astrology Jul 30, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome back renowned astrologer Michael A. Bryan who you can find at Oraculos Astrology – Excellence in Astrological Education. We talk with Michael about his latest 700-page opus on medical astrology and explores the incredible relationship between our natal charts and health. Learn about Michael's innovative approach to seeing health issues through the lens of astrology, the importance of mental well-being, and why early childhood experiences are crucial in medical astrology. Plus, don't miss the special insights on how medical astrology differs from other astrological practices. Be sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more fascinating episodes! #MedicalAstrology #Astrology #Podcast #MichaelABryan #PlantCunning #Health

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:33 Special Guest: Michael A. Bryan

00:51 Announcements and Promotions

02:41 Michael A. Bryan's Journey in Medical Astrology

03:21 Writing and Publishing Books on Astrology

11:23 Foundations of Classical Astrology

16:27 Medical Astrology: Understanding the Human Body

26:22 Ethics and Scope of Practice in Medical Astrology

38:45 Reframing Health Issues in Astrology

39:02 Effective Communication with Clients

41:42 Challenges in Astrology Readings

45:11 Mental Health in Astrology

53:18 The Role of Horary Astrology

59:10 Predictive Techniques in Medical Astrology

01:06:26 The New Western Medical Astrology

01:13:40 Upcoming Classes and Events

Ep. 191: Sara Mastros on Tarot Jul 24, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast! In this special, longest-ever episode, hosts AC and Isaac Hill are joined once again by Sara Mastros to delve deep into the art of tarot reading. Discover tips on becoming a skilled tarot reader, get an exclusive first look at Sara's revamped Fool's Dog Tarot app, and experience the two dynamic tarot readings conducted during this episode. Sara also shares personal updates on her latest writings and educational courses. Stick around to explore unique deck recommendations and deep insights into the intersection of intuition and structured reading. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more explorations into the mysteries of nature!00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Special Episode Overview01:27 Announcements and Offers03:15 Introducing Sara Mastros and Her Work05:38 Deep Dive into Tarot12:35 Understanding Tarot Decks and Recommendations32:35 The Fool's Dog App and Its Features44:06 Navigating App Updates and Beta Testing45:45 App Features and User Experience46:45 Exploring Tarot Decks and Spreads47:45 Personalizing Your Tarot Experience48:49 Recording and Sharing Readings01:11:11 Digital Rights and Supporting Artists01:14:10 Preparing for a Tarot Reading01:16:44 Exploring Tarot Decks01:17:20 Prairie Deck and Similar Styles01:18:12 Housewives Tarot and Its Surprising Depth01:18:45 Travel-Themed Tarot Decks01:18:57 Cosmic Tarot and Line Strider01:19:40 Fairytale Tarot and Personal Connections01:20:07 Boey Deck of Virtually Delights01:20:53 Choosing a Deck for the Reading01:21:06 Starting the Tarot Reading01:22:39 Interpreting the Cards01:27:34 Reflecting on the Reading01:40:04 Additional Decks and Their Unique Features01:42:25 Exploring Tarot Decks for Middle-Aged Women01:42:50 Unique Tarot Decks and Their Artistic Appeal01:43:23 Quantum Tarot: A Deck for Science Enthusiasts01:44:27 Shining Tribe and Byzantine Icon Tarot Decks01:46:51 Voyager Tarot: Nostalgia and Practicality01:48:22 Live Tarot Reading: Business Success Spread01:52:11 Interpreting Tarot Readings and Personal Insights02:05:41 The Fool's Dog App: Features and Benefits02:09:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ep. 190: Lauren Eadline on Mutual Aid and Integrating Herbalism with Modern Medicine Jul 16, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of the Plant Cutting Podcast! 🌿 We're honored to host Lauren Eadline, a family nurse practitioner, an advanced practice holistic nurse, and a registered herbalist from Central New York. In this episode, Lauren shares her fascinating journey to the plant path, her innovative methods of integrating herbal medicine into modern healthcare, and her passion for community-focused mutual aid work. We'll dive into her favorite plants, like St. John's Wort and Blue Vervain, explore the nuances of becoming a nurse practitioner, and learn how Lauren's efforts are creating sustainable health solutions for her community. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation! Like, comment, and subscribe for more enriching content. 🌱

Find the Syracuse Herbal Study group here: Home | Syracuse Herbal SG

00:00 Introduction to Lauren Edline

00:50 Lauren's Journey to Herbalism

04:01 Becoming a Nurse Practitioner

06:28 Integrating Herbalism with Western Medicine

13:37 Challenges in Nurse Practitioner Education

15:19 Syracuse Herbal Study Group

23:24 Mutual Aid and Community Building

32:25 Realizing Our Niche and Fundraising Challenges

34:19 Mutual Aid Efforts and Financial Hurdles

36:03 Application Process for Aid Gifts

39:25 Exploring New Plants and Herbal Practices

42:49 Favorite Plants and Their Uses

51:11 Ethical Considerations in Herbalism

53:28 Exciting Changes and Future Plans

56:18 How to Get Involved and Stay Connected

Ep. 189: Gabriel Mojay on Aromatic Herbalism Jul 10, 2025

Show notes

Learn more about Actaea Institute at Actaea Institute of Herbal Medicine & AromatherapyWelcome to a special episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosted from Cohosh Creek Herb Farm's Zodiac Garden! In this episode, meet Gabriel Mojay, an accomplished aromatherapist, herbalist, author, teacher, and poet. Gabriel shares his extraordinary journey into the world of plant medicine, leading up to his extensive studies and accomplishments in Traditional Chinese Medicine, aromatherapy, and herbal medicine. Dive into compelling discussions about the therapeutic uses of essential oils, the integration of Western and Eastern herbal practices, and the importance of sustainable and ethical sourcing of medicinal plants. Gabriel also talks about his upcoming Actaea Institute collaboration with AC and insights into their educational programs. Don't miss this enriching and inspiring conversation! Like, comment, and subscribe for more plant medicine insights.

00:00 Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:28 Introducing Gabriel Mojay

01:23 Gabriel's Journey into Plant Medicine

02:34 The Influence of Diet and Macrobiotics

04:10 Gabriel's Training and Shiatsu

06:34 Discovering Herbal Medicine

08:36 The Role of Aromatherapy

15:51 The Importance of Antioxidants

29:45 Balancing Essential Oil Usage

36:46 The Art of Distillation

39:03 Diving into Aromatherapy

40:01 Exploring Botanical Perfumery

40:11 Practical Uses of Hydrosols

42:37 Astrology and Herbalism

56:11 Integrating Aromatherapy in Practice

01:06:06 Actaea Institute and Future Goals

Ep. 188: Summer Forecast '25 with ZamboniFunk - Jupiter in Cancer! Uranus in Gemini! Jun 20, 2025

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, in this episode, hosts AC and Isaac Hill discuss the astrological forecast for summer 2025 with guest ZamboniFunk. Key highlights include the ingress of Jupiter in Cancer, and the ongoing transits of outer planets including Uranus' dip into Gemini and subsequent retrograde back into Taurus, as well as the almost perfect Saturn and Neptune conjunction in the first degree of Aries. The conversation touches on the potential cultural, geopolitical, and individual impacts of these alignments, offering viewers insights on how to navigate and thrive during this period of upheaval. The episode also delves into the implications of the Mars-Saturn opposition. Listeners are treated to 3 free astrological elections and tips for maximizing the beneficial energies of Jupiter in Cancer through various practices like creating talismans and alchemical tinctures. Whether you're an astrology enthusiast or just curious about what the stars have in store, this episode offers a comprehensive overview of the summer's astrological landscape.

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:31 Summer Forecast with Zamboni Funk

00:55 Personal Updates and Spring Reflections

02:16 Zodiac Garden

03:25 Weather and Growing Season Insights

04:55 Jupiter in Cancer: Astrological Significance

07:47 Jupiter's Journey and Benefic Influence

19:23 Electional Astrology and Talisman Creation

35:42 Mars-Saturn Opposition and Global Tensions

50:11 Jupiter's Influence on Home and Heart

51:22 Reframing Challenges with Uranus in Gemini

53:31 The Impact of Uranus on Geopolitics and Personal Life

55:12 Historical Context and Future Tech Innovations

01:03:01 Navigating Decline and Innovation

01:04:44 Energy Production and Technological Advancements

01:05:46 The Role of Neptune in Aries and Competitive Advantage

01:16:10 The Wild West of Future Tech

01:25:27 Leadership and Authority in Transition

01:35:02 Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

Ep. 187: Natasha Lloyd on Foraged Condiments Jun 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we sit down with herbalist and author Natasha Lloyd (About - Gathering Nature), to talk about her book 'Foraged Condiments'. Natasha shares her journey into the world of wild foraging, beginning with childhood influences and expanding through her formal education in herbal medicine. She discusses the benefits and methodologies of incorporating wild foods into everyday culinary practices, including delicious recipes featuring plants like garlic mustard, dandelion, and yarrow. Natasha emphasizes the importance of sustainable foraging and respecting natural ecosystems. The episode also delves into Natasha's participation in the Wild Biome Project, highlighting the potential health benefits of a diet rich in wild foods. Tune in to discover the fascinating world of foraged condiments and the wisdom of plants.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:26 Natasha Lloyd's Foraging Journey

02:58 The Importance of Foraging Knowledge

12:41 Foraging Safety and Best Practices

29:26 Exploring Garlic Mustard and Other Foraged Plants

34:50 Long-Term Gardening and Invasive Species

35:35 Exploring Uses of Garlic Mustard

36:58 Dandelion Root and Its Benefits

39:21 The History and Value of Dandelions

40:36 Making Dandelion Wine and Other Brews

42:21 Hawthorn and Its Medicinal Uses

48:56 Wild Food Project and Health Benefits