Plant Cunning Podcast (Plant Cunning Podcast )

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill interview herbalist and author Marcos Patchett. Marcos shares his journey into herbalism and medical astrology, influenced by his grandfather and a series of personal experiences. He discusses his in-depth research on cacao, chronicled in his books 'The Secret Life of Chocolate' and 'Pharmacocoa.' The conversation delves into the history, cultivation, traditional preparation, and medicinal benefits of cacao, highlighting its unique qualities and its significant cultural impact in Mesoamerica. Marcos also touches on his new medical astrology education platform, Plan*tarium, designed for herbalists and medical practitioners.

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:31 Meet Marcos Hatchet: Herbalist and Author

01:00 Discussing Chocolate and Astrology

02:02 Marcos' Journey into Herbalism

08:24 The Influence of Mentors and Teachers

11:34 The Obsession with Chocolate

15:05 The Holy Grail of Chocolate

23:55 Cacao Cultivation and Mythology

38:36 The Resilient Dandelion and Planetary Herbs

40:14 Cacao: The Venusian Delight

41:06 The Complex Nature of Cacao

44:27 Traditional Preparation of Cacao

45:07 Foaming Agents and Techniques

57:33 Medicinal Uses of Cacao

01:02:19 Choosing the Right Cacao

01:07:03 Books, Reviews, and Courses

In this episode we have a pleasant chat with the Village Witch of Asheville, NC, Byron Ballard herself about her new book Small Magics: Practical Secrets from an Appalachian Village Witch published by Llewellyn in 2023, and her new new book coming out this year. We talk about our intentions for 2024, plants we're excited about growing, places we plant on travelling to, and much more!

#podcast #plantcunningpodcast #appalachian #hoodoo #smallmagic #llewellyn #folkmagic #newyear #newyearresolutions

Find Priya at: https://cosmicdiaries.com/ Born in Mumbai, in a lineage of Vedic astrologers, Priya Kale is a NYC based Western astrologer with a worldwide clientele and readership, in professional practice since 2006. Her horoscopes and work have been published in various outlets including Cosmopolitan, Astroguide for Vice Media, Astrology.com, Horoscope.com, Astologyzone, Yahoo! Australia, CondeNast Traveller, Moonology and here at Cosmic Diaries. She has also spoken at various major Astrology Conferences, in the US and internationally, and is working on her book on Chiron, based on 15 years of research and experience. She is currently also studying Jyotish in the Sri Achyutananda Parampara, and Ayurveda, meditation, Vedic studies under the guidance of ther Guru, Amma Karunmayi. #chiron #astrology #podcast #amma

In this episode we speak with NYC based herbalist and entrepreneur Rachelle Robinett about helping people craft healthy lifestyles with tools like herbs, supplements, and intermittent fasting. We get into adaptogens, plant based diets, when supplements are necessary and how to balance a busy, productive lifestyle with taking care of yourself. You can find Rachelle at https://www.ursupernatural.com/ and on Instagram at @rachellerobinett

And you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/plantcunning

In this episode we speak with aspiring farmer and researcher Mattie B on his work looking in to how Indigenous Microorganism (IMO) in Korean Natural Farming work, and how they compare to other soil amendments such as compost, mycogrow and others. Check out his work here: https://unadillacommunityfarm.org/imo/

This material is based upon work supported by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, U.S. Department of Agriculture, through the Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program under subaward number FNE22-001. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Queeba is a urban agriculturalist, community organizer and mother living in Pittsburgh, PA. In this episode, we speak with her about the wonder of bees,  how to engage children with growing their own food, working on collective projects, the importance of food access, working with heavy metal contamination in city soils, and starting a community food co-op in Homewood.  As she says, "I'm stubborn about my goals, but flexible about my methods." 

You can find the Black Urban Gardeners and Farmers of Pittsburgh at https://bugfpc.com and Mamma Africa's Greenscouts at Facebook.com/MAGreenScouts and if you're in Pittsburgh, they're having a workday on April 10th from 12-4 pm!

And you can find our Patreon at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

Find info on the Plant Cunning Conference here

Find Lucy Jones at Myrobalanclinic.com

Lucy's new book A Working Herbal Dispensary is coming in July from Aeon Books.

In this episode we sit down with rootworker, healer, author and teacher Denise Alvarado about her new book "Marie Laveau's Voodoo Grimoire", talk about rootwork, New Orleans Voodoo, hoodoo, and dispel myths about who Marie Laveau was.

"Having grown up steeped in the rich cultural milieu of New Orleans, Louisiana, I've dedicated over four decades of my life to exploring indigenous healing traditions both personally and academically. My passion continues to be the preservation of the folkways of my culture of origin, and to the documentation of African, Black, and indigenous resistance fighters, and the study of quality of life in Native American populations.

​My journey as a tradition keeper and healer began when I was five years old on a Mississippi bayou where my aunt introduced me to the mysteries of Spiritualism. In addition, my Catholic Creole culture of origin informs my work. To be Creole in New Orle­ans means our blood derives from Spanish, French, Indigenous, and African ancestry, or some admixture within, and with that comes the traditions of our ancestors. From their rich mélange of food, music, culture, and religions, we can find healing modalities and magickal works designed for empowered, resilient, and resourceful living. My goal has been to bring these forms of healing and empowerment to others for the benefit of our planetary family.

​

I am a proud member of the American Anthropological Association, the Association of Indigenous Anthropologists, and the Association of Latina/o & Latinx Anthropologists. After serving on the editorial board for the Journal for Social and Behavioral Sciences, I brought those academic skills and experience to Hoodoo & Conjure Quarterly, The Journal of American Rootwork, Gumbo Ya Ya, and the Hoodoo Almanacs. My journey has led me to pen over twenty books, including "Witch Queens, Voodoo Spirits and Hoodoo Saints," "The Magic of Marie Laveau," and my latest work, "The Marie Laveau Voodoo Grimoire."

​

Having been nurtured by my parents as an artist since birth, my ritual art has graced television screens in shows like National Geographic's Taboo, the Originals, and Blue Bloods. My work, whether in art or writing, echoes my roles as a rootworker, tradition-keeper, spiritual artisan, and guardian of the sacred wisdom of Southern folk magick and folkways."

#hoodoo #voodoo #conjure #rootwork #magicalherbalism

In this episode we speak with author, poet, esotericist, and energy  healing practitioner about his new book The Power of the Healing Field:  Energy Medicine, Psi Abilities, and Ancestral Healing, some of the  different modalities available that work with subtle energies, from EFT  (meridian tapping), to Reiki, to Mind Connection Healing (that his  partner Kenzie developed) and more! We talk about different states of  consciousness, from rational to intuitive, empathetic to psychic and all  the way up to unitive mystical states. We talk about entity attachment  and removal, about the importance of coming from a place of service,  what the "Field" is, and the ethical framework integral to it.  

There's also an upcoming event we share about in the intro called the  Plant Spirit Herbalism Summit hosted by our friend Sara Artemisia (see  Episode 36 of our podcast to listen to us interviewing her). Use this  link to view more info, register for free or purchase the all-access  pass for the weekends' recordings https://www.plantspiritherbalismsummit.com/?ac=8OguDRxr.  That's our unique affiliate link so we will be getting a percentage of  any sales, so it's a great way to support the show while soaking up the  wisdom of some amazing plant people like Rosemary Gladstar, Matthew  Wood, Margi Flint and many more. The event is March 18-20th online and  has 33 amazing speakers total sharing about their special connection to  plants. See you there.

In this episode we interview Anima Pundeer, a spiritual friend of  Isaac's. We talk about what she knows for sure, who she really is,  growing up in rural India and moving to the US where she found a group  of like minded aspirants, and answers to her deepest questions.

She recently wrote a book called Always Right Behind You: Parables & Poems of Love & Completion with Art Ticknor, who was on episode 34 of the podcast. 

She's also speaking at the TAT Foundation April meeting near Durham NC, if you're interested. 

If you'd like to become a patron, go to Patreon.com/PlantCunning

On this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, we welcome Taylor Keen, author of "Rediscovering Turtle Island," to discuss the sacred geography of North America, the importance of indigenous agriculture, and the powerful seeds of cultural resurgence. Taylor, author, educator and founder of the Sacred Seed Project, shares his profound knowledge about the sacred landscapes, prophecies, and star alignments that have shaped indigenous cultures for generations. This episode offers a rich tapestry of stories, from planting seeds along the Keystone XL pipeline to understanding the profound astronomical alignments of Cahokia and Serpent Mound. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that weaves together the threads of history, spirituality, and environmental stewardship. #SeedSovereignty #ancienttechnology #earthmounds #SacredGeography #IndigenousHistory #IndigenousWisdom #SacredCorn #TaylorKeen #PlantCunningPodcast

In this episode we speak with Joe Hollis about how he came to be tending his little bit of paradise for almost 50 years, what the concept of "Paradise Gardening" is, his community apothecary, how to live with little money (on purpose!) and how climate change has affected his gardening.

Here's his website, with tabs for how to apply for the apprenticeship program, an essay on "Paradise Gardening" and how to purchase seeds.

Here's his YouTube channel, where I first heard about him. 

S.M. Harlow discovered her love of romantic fiction and the wildcraft over two decades ago. Her calling for the craft began when she was a young girl at eleven, among the trees and the wind. She found great peace and connection with herbs and how they brought magick into the everyday mundane. Tea was a gift given to her by a Master, who taught her how spirituality and healing is found within its brewed depths.
Romantic fiction was a turning point in Harlow's teens, setting the imagination free and ablaze. It set her off towards expressing her creative fantasies on paper.
As a writer for both Romance and Tea Witchery, S.M. Harlow hopes to give the world the same passion and inspiration that was so humbly bestowed upon her.
When she is not writing, Harlow is studying to become a Doctor of Traditional Naturopathy.

In this "Intro to Spagyrics" episode, we speak with herbalist and alchemist Shannon Garity about what spagyrics are, how to make them, and some of her experiences with them.

You can find her on IG and FB under @RipplingMedicinals 

In this episode, we speak with 7Song, who was on episode 6 of the podcast, about first aid at the Rainbow Gatherings, staph infections, mental health herbs, and much more. Find him at 7song.com!

In this episode we speak with our friend Lora from the Rail Yard Ghosts about becoming a witch at a young age (she actually played the young Nicole Kidman in Practical Magic), the gritty art of traveling, dirt worship, hopping trains, divination, and magic. 

You can find her website here: https://loragalora.square.site/

Karen Rose has dedicated her life’s work to empowering individuals to  reconnect to their own ancestral traditions, rooted in her native land  of Guyana with a dash of desert life from her time in Arizona and her  many years in Brooklyn, NY. Regarded as a Spiritual Herbalist, Karen is  revered for being the first to teach Spiritual Herbalism, plant medicine  deeply rooted in ancestral healing and spiritual consciousness.  Offering guidance to those on the path to finding the truth, she has  trained over 400 herbalists through her Spiritual Herbalism  Apprenticeship program as an act to reclaim their own health and offer  healing to their own communities.  She's recently come out with an amazing new book: The Art & Practice of Spiritual Herbalism: Transform, Heal & Remember with the Power of Plants and Ancestral Medicine. You can find her on IG and at sacredvibeshealing.com

This is a rich conversation. We touched on topics like ancestral  healing, how grief can hang in the lungs, her favorite plants for heart  healing, what spiritual herbalism means to her and what apprenticing  with her may be like. It was an honor and a pleasure to learn about  Karen's life and her work. Enjoy the episode.  

Upcoming Free Live Event on Earth Day Weekend: The ONE Summit or Women Working for the Earth Summit is going to be well  worth checking out for some heart soothing, inspiring and connecting  listening from some of the most incredible activists, healers, nature  lovers of our time. This event led by @natureevolutionaries is happening  the weekend of Earth Day, April 21st - 24th, 2022 and features over 30  speakers.  Use our affiliate link to check out the Women Working for the Earth  Summit here:  https://www.womenworkingfortheearth.com/?ac=UTnGeAhy  to support us if you decide to purchase the all access pass for the  recordings (it's $67 and they give us a generous half of that).  Check  out the speakers of the summit and the topics that they are going to  share with the world. It's pretty amazing. To name a few: Winona LaDuke,  Leah Penniman, Tammi Sweet, Rosemary Gladstar, Rosita Arvigo and many  inspiring plant people. Ya'all will love it.

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Will Morris, an accomplished astrologer, TCM practitioner, sound healer, and musician. Morris discusses his expertise in pulse diagnosis, sound healing with Indian classical instruments, and the integration of various modalities like astrology, herbalism, and homeopathy. He delves into the connections between music, numbers, and astrological principles, emphasizing the transdisciplinary nature of his work. The conversation also explores his insights into Vedic and Renaissance astrology, the significance of the tropical and sidereal zodiacs, and the use of different systems and techniques for medical purposes. The episode concludes with a preview of Morris's upcoming book 'Sky in Medicine' and its contribution to the fields of astrology and traditional medicine. 00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast 00:31 Meet Will Morris: Astrologer and Healer 01:19 Exploring Sound Healing and Music 02:46 Astrology and Its Connections 06:37 The Beauty of an Organized Cosmos 08:18 The Intersection of Music and Astrology 12:01 The Journey into Herbalism 17:52 Understanding Pulse Diagnosis 25:25 Understanding Planetary Dignities 26:28 Astrological Indicators of Health 27:57 Blood Depletion and Chinese Medicine 30:23 Astrological Chart and Ancestral Trauma 32:59 Pulse Diagnosis and Ancestral Work 40:30 Integrating Astrological Systems 44:32 The Role of Different Astrological Techniques 50:58 Conclusion and Future Works

We welcome back JMG to the podcast in this joyful, historical, and advice packed episode. "In every person is the seed of some kind of magnificence," he says at one point encouraging our listeners to grab life by the horns and make it magical, interesting and meaningful in their own weird way. Johnny Appleseed was a person who did just that, planting seeds of magnificence and literal seeds every where he walked (usually barefoot). JMG tells us about his story including some parts that you don't hear about in the nursery rhymes. He talks about the importance of remembering and honoring those folks who came before us that held a vision for something different than the mainstream paradigm. We also talked about the vision of the 1970's appropriate tech movement and how those skills that scientists and homesteaders alike learned back then are still quite applicable today. We got into some of those tangible skills and techniques on consuming less energy and being self sufficient, for example solar ovens and insulated curtains. He offers a lot more in depth skills, resources, practices in his book Green Wizardry which we love. Isaac offers a little something special at the end for you too. Enjoy the show. 

If you haven't already, check out our previous interview with John Michael Greer, Episode 4 on Natural Magic to learn more about his history and bio as we just dove right into the chat for this one. 

We talked a lot about his book Green Wizardry but please check out his MANY other books here: https://bookshop.org/books?keywords=john+michael+greer

He blogs at https://www.ecosophia.net/ and https://ecosophia.dreamwidth.org

Also check out our shiny new Patreon Page and support the show with a monthly donation if you're willing and able to help us keep this going smooth as buttah. Our patrons will directly influence the direction of the show as we will have polls about who to have on next and what topics you'd like us to cover. Plus some other perks like members only episodes and classes on regenerative farming and herbalism. 

Rosita Arvigo is an herbalist, ethnobotanist, Doctor of naprapathy, author and teacher living in Belize. You can find her website at RositaArvigo.com. In this episode we speak about her grandmothers taking her foraging for wild plants in Chicago as a young child, about moving to Mexico in the early 70s to resist the Vietnam war, about moving to Belize and meeting the traditional Mayan healer Don Elijio Panti, who she studied with for 17 years until his death at age 103. We talk about spiritual bathing, the essence of spiritual healing, some of her favorite plants, and her technique of abdominal massage that has helped many people all over the world transform their health.

Also, we are starting to release some videos on Youtube, and you can support the podcast at Patreon.com/plantcunning

In this episode we speak with herbalist Guido Masé about consciousness, will, the beauty of science, how herbalism helps him unite his love of science with his love of spirit (and plants!) We talk about the importance of phytochemical diversity, "wild plant deficiency syndrome",  and dancing with darkness. 

You can support the podcast at Patreon.com/plantcunning

Plant Cunning Conference Info: https://buildwithmaple.notion.site/Plant-Cunning-Conference-Sept-9-10-2023-b7b505f1d48b414ebc02e7eb75ea54b0 In this episode we interview Ken Asmus of the legendary Oikos Tree Crops. Find him here: https://oikostreecrops.com/

In this episode we talk with one of my mentors, Art Ticknor, about Self-Realization, meditation, confrontation, celibacy, and the legacy of his teacher, Richard Rose. You can find him at SelfDiscoveryPortal.com and you can find out about the June TAT meeting at: TATFoundation.org.

You can support the podcast at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

In this episode we speak with John Michelotti of Catskill Fungi on how he quit his job and devoted his life to mushrooms, what mushrooms even are, the medicinal benefits of mushrooms and the best ways to make the highest grade medicines from them, and how science is catching up with folk lore.

You can find John at https://www.catskillfungi.com/about-us.html

n this special edition of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill are joined by astrologer ZamboniFunk to explore the year ahead in 2025. Zamboni delves deep into the astrological shifts that are forecasted for the upcoming year. Join us as we discuss the significant changes in the outer planets, the influence of Mars, Venus, and Mercury retrogrades, and what Neptune's transition into Aries means for all of us. Prepare for an engaging conversation on navigating this period of transformation, how to interpret astrological signs, and how to thrive amidst change. Whether you're a seasoned astrology enthusiast or just curious about the stars, this episode offers insights that everyone can appreciate. Tune in and prepare to ride the astro waves of 2025 with us! #Astrology2025 #PlantCunningPodcast

We welcome widely respected author, occultist, druid and blogger John Michael Greer back to the Plant Cunning Podcast to talk about the new edition of his book The Wealth of Nations: Economics as if Survival Mattered, what wealth is, how the whole economy is very much dependent on nature, how to invest in a declining economy, and why moving to the country to start a commune from scratch doesn't work out most of the time. For those of you who wish to hear more, we have a bonus episode in which JMG discusses biochemic cell salts, homeopathy, 19th and early 20th century occultism and the energy body at Patreon.com/plantcunning for our $9 and up patrons. 

You can buy JMG's book at Foundershousepublishing.com and read his blog at Ecosophia.net

In this episode, ZamboniFunk is back to do the spring quarter/Aries Ingress with us. We look at the surprising implications of the Aries Ingress chart, the eclipses happening this quarter, Mercury and Venus's retrogrades, Neptune and Saturn entering Aries, and much more.

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:31 Welcoming Zamboni Funk and Discussing the Aries Ingress

01:22 Reflections on Winter and Signs of Spring

05:02 Astrological Insights: Aries Ingress and Eclipse Season

08:16 Analyzing the Aries Ingress Chart

16:48 Mars in the Sixth House and Its Implications

30:14 Lunar Eclipse and Its Impact on Religion and Trade

39:32 Eclipse Impact on Washington D.C.

41:31 Debating the Eclipse's Significance

42:36 Astrological Predictions for Trump

49:33 Saturn and Neptune in Aries

01:01:53 Navigating Retrogrades: Venus and Mercury

01:08:36 Looking Ahead: Jupiter in Cancer

01:19:18 Final Thoughts and Predictions

In this episode, we talk with Arun from Arun's Yoga about Mahavidyas, Tantra, and the Trees associated with the Nakshatras, the 27 mansions of the moon from Vedic Astrology. You can find Arun here: www.arunsyoga.in

Biotunes

https://mapsbolt.wixsite.com/biotunes

Cannatunes

https://cannatunes.wixsite.com/mysite/music

Ginseng Guided meditation spa kit

https://www.cimarron-maz.com/product-page/guided-ginseng-meditation

Other stuff

Damanhur

https://damanhur.travel/

Plants Play

https://www.plantsplay.com/

Cleave Baxter

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/992993.Primary_Perception

      Loretta "Maps Bolt" Hord is an artist,  innovator, technoshaman, and paradigm changer focused on interspecies  collaboration. After studying environmental law at the SUNY College of  Environmental Sciences and Forestry she began trying her hand at  biodynamic farming, environmental education, and geo locative coding.  Since then, Maps Bolt creates  realistic pathways for humanity to manifest deeper connections with the  natural world through animistic perspectives and technology.
  Maps Bolt looks to be eclectic in her  experiences and use them to facilitate her work. Constantly learning new  skills in coding, alternative artistic methods, and AR/VR development,  she works to connect all of these disciplines into the pioneering of  plant music applications and provides a unique user experience that  makes plant vitality evident through sound.

       As founder of Biotunes, she  uses multi-media, multi-sensory applications that translates  bio-rhythmic energy of the plant into musical notes and a cymatic visual  projection. Her strongest influences has been the works of other  researchers and scientists such as Monica Gagliano, author ot "Thus  Spoke the Plant", Cleave Baxter who first transmitted data from plants,  or Jeremy Narby who stated in his 2012 Bioneers presentation “The way  the shamans describe it, the spirits of nature, or the essences, are  themselves melodies. When they perceive these different entities, if you  pay careful attention, they vibrate out a melody. And the work of the  shaman is to pick up the given melodies of each species.”   This  statement best expresses the core of Maps work with plants and creating  immersive experiences that engage the public. Her work is also  influenced by the notion of "hikoi", a Maori term for pilgrimage.

   Through the engagement of making  music with plants by translating the electrical impulses into musical  notes, questions about who gets to belong, who makes the decisions, and  what is considered valuable in the conservation world arises. Combining  plant generated soundscapes with geolocative tools, allows for the  creation of “songlines” - geo-triggered audio tours of ethnobotanical  communities .  When the music made by plants are connected to gps  location, the plants song will automatically play through a mobile app  when approaching each individual plant species. The placement of the  songlines are often in in publically accessible forests and gardens.

In this episode we speak with Zamboni of Zamboni Funk about astrology, what got him into it, what it is, how it intersects with magic and herbalism, and about the great conjunction happening in a few days.  

His website is https://www.zambonifunk.com/home and his InstaGram handle is @zambonifunk 

Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast, where hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill delve into an illuminating conversation with Ike Baker of  @arcanvm  , a multifaceted practitioner of the esoteric arts. In this episode, Ike opens up about his journey through herbalism, alchemy, and magic. Discover how he combines traditional Chinese medicine with Western esotericism, and learn about his hands-on approach to astrological gardening. Ike also provides a firsthand account of weathering a recent hurricane in North Carolina and its profound effects on his community. Whether you’re intrigued by the science of herbs, the practice of ceremonial magic, or the deeper mysteries of nature, this episode has something for you. Tune in for an episode packed with personal stories, practical insights, and a unique perspective on the magical and natural worlds. Don't miss it! #magic #esoteric #podcast #astrology #westernesotericism #magick #goldendawn

John Michael Greer returns to the show to talk about pre-psychological modern astrology, which is often overlooked these days. The revival of Hellenistic, Medieval and Renaissance forms are going strong, but when people think of modern astrology, all too often they forget that there was and is a strong tradition of predictive, practical astrology in the modern era using the outer planets as well as the traditional 7. We also talk about JMG's groundbreaking book The Twilight of Pluto which shows how the influences of Pluto rose and fell with it's discovery and demotion, and what a post-Pluto world looks like. 

In this episode we have the honor of speaking with  @HerbsWithRosalee  about herbalism, podcasting and help with healing upper respiratory infections! Check her out at: https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Sue Morris (find her at https://www.suesalves.com) , an herbalist, aromatherapist, author, and astrologer. Sue shares her journey into the plant path, which began with a life-changing connection to the earth at the first Earth Day in Manhattan. She explores her integration of astrology and herbalism, detailing her unique approach to planting by the moon and harvesting by planetary hours. Sue also delves into her book, 'Scents of Self,' which combines elements of astrology and aromatherapy to create personalized scents based on astrological charts. The conversation also covers Sue's adventures in the Caribbean, where she's been exploring native plants and making herbal salves. Don't miss this enriching discussion on the intricate bonds between nature, astrology, and human well-being. #PlantCunningPodcast #Herbalism #Aromatherapy #Astrology #SenseOfSelf #SueMorris #NaturalHealing #PlantMagic #HolisticHealth #PlantByTheMoon #LunarGardening #EssentialOils #CaribbeanHerbalism

Stone circles, the Secret of Solomon's Temple, ley lines, feng shui, radionics, cosmiculture pipes - in this episode we explore earth energies with John Michael Greer, and spill some secrets for how to grow a gangbusters garden.

In this episode we speak with Jain about growing up with a botanist in the backyard, helping folks connect to nature (even if they didn't grow up with a botanist in the backyard), herbal cakes, being a park ranger, and going off the trail. 

You can find her at: https://www.champagnehillbotanicals.ca/ and on IG at @champagne.hill.botanicals

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In this episode we speak with Tess Hughes about self-inquiry, awakening, dreams, and practical considerations for the spiritual path. Tess is down to earth, cheerful, profound and a pleasure to speak with. If you like this episode, you might like previous episodes 75 with Anima Pundeer, and episode 34 with Art Ticknor. You can find Tess's book This Above All most places online, and the TAT foundation at www.TATfoundation.org.

Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosted by AC Stauble and Isaac Hill. In this episode, we have a fascinating conversation with Jazmina Von Thiele and Paulina Stevens, authors of 'The Secrets of Romani Fortune Telling.' Jez and Paulina discuss the inspiration behind their podcast Romanistan, share their personal experiences growing up in Romani culture, and dive deep into various forms of divination, including tarot, palmistry, and tea leaf reading. They also highlight the importance of cultural representation, ethical practices in fortunetelling, and their upcoming Romanistan festival event. Whether you're interested in divination, Romani culture, or just love a good story, this episode has something for everyone. Subscribe and join us for this enlightening discussion!

#divination #magic #romani #fortunetelling #palmistry #tealeaves #tarot

In this episode we dive deep into how plants like Rose, Hawthorne, Ginger, and mushrooms like Reishi can assist in the great work of self-transformation, about Anjanae's "spiritual glow-up" and studying with Karen Rose. We had a great time and hope you enjoy!

You can find Anjanae at: https://www.rosegoldalchemy.com/, on IG @RoseGoldAlchemy, and on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfHAPL9INQAcBCD0VA4lrrA

And you can find us on Patreon at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

Today we interview herbalist, author, teacher and artist  Margi Flint about studying herbalism with Rosemary Gladstar, William LesSassier and others in the 70s, about her wonderful, practical book "The Practicing Herbalist" which is now in it's 4th edition, facial diagnosis, cleansing space, and much more!  Find Margi at: https://earthsongherbals.com/

Amy Blackthorn, a Green Witch and author of three books on botanical magic was a blast to have on the podcast. She taught us lots about using plants in magical workings including as essential oils, smoke bundles and incense, tea and delicious elixirs. She tells us about keeping a magical diary with homemade poke berry ink. Try not to drool while she describes the recipe for Watermelon Cucumber shrub (cocktail or soda mixer). We look forward to hearing more about her book coming out this year on protection.

Be sure to check out her current books, "Blackthorns Botanical Magic: A Green Witchs' guide to essential oils for spellcraft, ritual and healing," "Blackthorn's Botanical Brews: Herbal Potions, Magical Teas and Spirited Libations," and "Sacred Smoke: Clear away negative energies and purify mind, body, and spirit."

Find her at on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter 

Get 20% off Kirsten's book "Food as Medicine" by using the code "FM20" (valid until Nov 30th) at https://health.aeonbooks.co.uk/ and https://health.aeonbooks.com/ (which is dedicated to North America)

Kirsten Hartvig ND is a registered naturopath, medical herbalist, nutritionist, vegan, and the author of 14 books on natural health. She is in private practice in Forest Row. She also runs the Healing Garden at Emerson College in Forest Row and is curator of the Biodynamic Botanic Garden @ Emerson College. She also teaches materia medica on the Heartwood Herbal Medicine online professional course, and the YouTube Channel Herb Hunters.The Healing Garden is a physic garden within the 22-acre botanic garden focusing on native and medicinal plants.Kirsten was born in Denmark, but came to the UK in 1986 and spent the next 6 years studying herbal medicine and naturopathy at the School of Herbal Medicine and the British College of Naturopathy and Osteopathy. After qualifying, she went into private practice, taught nutrition and dietetics at the European School of Osteopathy in Maidstone, and wrote a nutrition course for the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine.In 1996 she set up a small naturopathic retreat in the French Pyrenees and ran it for a decade together with her husband, Dr Nic Rowley. While they lived in the mountains, they also wrote several books about their experiences, notably You Are What You Eat, Ten Days To Better Health, Energy Juices, Energy Foods, and The Detox Box.Nic and Kirsten later lived in Denmark, where they set up a private practice in Skanderborg. During the time in Denmark, Kirsten also became involved with the political aspects of natural health, and became a member of the Danish Health Authority's Council for Alternative Medicine. Kirsten has also written the best-selling Healthy Diet Calorie Counter, The Big Book of Quick and Healthy Recipes, The Complete Guide to Nutritional Health and Eat for Immunity, and since returning to Sussex she has written Healing Berries and Healing Spices.

In this episode we go deep with herbalist, author and green witch Robin Rose Bennett on grief, meaning, the power of the story, Rose, Artemesia, White Pine, Cedar, and much more!

Robin Rose Bennett is a story-teller, writer, herbalist and green witch. She shares Earth wisdom with gratitude for the magic and mystery of the web of life. She is the author of A Green Witch’s Pocket Book of Wisdom - Big Little Life Tips, Healing Magic- A Green Witch Guidebook to Conscious Living and The Gift of Healing Herbs - Plant Medicines and Home Remedies for a Vibrantly Healthy Life, and the forthcoming A Young Green Witch’s Guide to Plant Magic - Rituals and Recipes from Nature.

#herbalism #podcast #herbal #herbalife #herbalmedicine #greenwitch #wtich #magick #plantcunningpodcast #spiritualpodcast

In this episode we dive deep into flower essences with Sara Artemisia; what they are, how to make them, how to use them. We also talk about Akashic Records and money! You can find Sara at SaraArtemisia.com and you can support this podcast at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

Stephen Pollington is an accomplished author and historian with a focus on the Anglo-Saxon period and the Old English language. He's written many books on these subjects and today's episode is about, "Leechcraft: Early English Charms, Plant Lore and Healing." We learned how difficult it is to translate these old texts with discrepancies among the various copies and missing sections, it's like you have to be part detective as well to figure out what plant they were actually talking about. Stephen gave us some insights on Medieval understandings of the origins of disease and some of the main types of healing modalities they used such as spell healing, knife healing, and herb healing. We discuss animist ideas (as we do) regarding how folks would chant directly to the plants themselves rather than pray or chant to a divinity or god in the 9 Herbs Charm. We highlighted a bit about runes, chants, plants and the thundergod Thor or Thunar. Stephen is a joy to listen to and we hope you learn as much from this episode as we did. 

In this episode we speak with naturopath, herbalist, medical astrologer and educator Kira Sutherland of (who you can find at https://www.astrologyofhealth.com/ ) about how she uses medical astrology in her work as a naturopath and herbalist, about homeopathy and flower essences, and about how to tap into our own natural cycles to optimize our health.

In this duo cast we share what it is like at our Central NY homestead as we prepare for our third winter on this land, shout out our Patrons, talk about media fasting and elimination diets and discuss the upcoming online class with Botanicwise we are excited to share.

Learn more about the program Food for Optimal Health with Paul Bergner using our affiliate link:

https://www.botanicwise.com/food-for-optimal-health-with-paul-bergner/?ref=32

The program starts next Tuesday, November 9th so be sure to sign up today if you're interested. 

AC will be in Brooklyn, NY this weekend vending her Traveling Herb Farmer herbal products at the FAD Early Bird Holiday Market if you're in NYC come say hello. 

In this episode we speak with author and visionary artist Howard Charing about the amazing Pablo Amaringo, about communicating with plants, what angels are, and some of the interesting encounters he's had with the spirit world. Find him at: https://www.hgcharing.com/

Isaac an AC go over their year, from tasting tropical fruits in South Florida, studying Vedic astrology, going to the Rainbow Gathering, and the successful launch of the Plant Cunning Conference.

Get your Plant Cunning Conference tickets here: Plant Cunning Conference – July 26-28, 2024 Join us on the Plant Cunning Podcast as we sit down with Wildman Steve Brill, a pioneer in the field of foraging. Discover Steve's journey into the world of foraging, his experiences leading tours in New York, and his insights into the nutritional benefits of wild foods. Steve also shares stories from his notable career, including his well-known encounter with the law in Central Park, and offers practical advice for aspiring foragers. An episode filled with valuable information for anyone interested in nature, health, and sustainable living.

Find him at https://www.wildmanstevebrill.com #wildmanstevebrill #foraging #herbalism #wildfood #eattheweeds #newyorkcity #urbanforaging #garlicmustard #persimmon #wildedibles

In this episode we speak with Neal Peterson, who has devoted over 40 years to breeding pawpaws (Asimina triloba). We talk about how he first fell in love with this delicious fruit, how he tracked down the remnants of the early 20th century pawpaw collections just in time, and selected 7 superior pawpaw cultivars out of 1,500 seedlings.

You can find his website at: Petersonpawpaws.com

And support the podcast at: Patreon.com/plantcunning

Taryn Forrelli is a Naturopathic Doctor and the Chief Science Officer for the leading botanical wellness company, Traditional Medicinals. She is a wealth of information on all things holistic wellness, natural medicine, and herbs, with a passion for science, innovation, and formulation. She has spent nearly twenty years working in the natural product industry including roles at New Chapter and OLLY where she commercialized science-backed dietary supplements, functional foods, and plant-based products that have disrupted the industry.

Get your Early Bird tickets to the Plant Cunning Conference here: https://buildwithmaple.notion.site/Plant-Cunning-Conference-Sept-9-10-2023-b7b505f1d48b414ebc02e7eb75ea54b0 Find Mychal at: https://oraculosastrology.com/ In this episode we talk with Mychal about traditional western, tropical astrology. How he taught himself and learned from the best, why practice makes perfect, why planets are more important than signs, why he uses Regiomontanus house system, and much more!

#astrology, #traditionalastrology, #medicalastrology, #plantcunning

The number 42 is AC's fav and we talk about why briefly. We draw inspiration from some of our previous episodes and dive a bit deeper into some topics discussed like diversity, dissensus (and do-ocracies), climate crisis, grief and how to throw mud at walls. Of course, discussing plants is also a big part of the episode. We talk about wild flowers, weeds, cottage gardens and dumpstered potatoes. 

EARLY BIRD TICKETS FOR THE PLANT CUNNING CONFERENCE END JULY 28th! (find them here: https://buildwithmaple.notion.site/Plant-Cunning-Conference-Sept-9-10-2023-b7b505f1d48b414ebc02e7eb75ea54b0 ) Find Barbara and the Herb Society UK here: https://herbsociety.org.uk/ Barbara is a third-generation herbalist and runs The Springfield Clinic of Natural Healing in Cheshire. She is an advocate of cultivating the use of plants in everyday life and keen to empower people with the confidence to embrace food as medicine. She qualified as a Consultant Medical Herbalist in 2012, becoming a member of the Unified Register of Herbal Practitioners, and the College of Medicine and Integrated Health. As well as running her own practice, Barbara has been a Trustee for The Herb Society since 2014 and has appeared as a guest speaker at numerous events and conferences. She has had an allotment for over 28 years, where she grows both food and medicine.

Find Camille at: https://www.camillefreeman.com/ Link to Pam Montgomery's class: https://www.wakeuptonature.com/co-creative-partnership-with-nature/?affiliate=plantcunning In this episode we have an amazing conversation with herbalist, nutritionist and mentor Camille Freeman about how to simplify your recommendations to be more effective, how to stand out and start getting referrals as an up-and-coming practitioner, the importance of a group of peers and mentors, and much more!

In this episode, we bring the village witch of Asheville, North Carolina herself, Byron Ballard, back on the show! We have a wonderful time chatting with Byron, and explore all sorts of topics. Grab a cup of tea and join us!

Rebecca Beyer will be speaking at this year's Plant Cunning Conference, July 26th-28th! Get your tickets here: Plant Cunning Conference – July 26-28, 2024 Glad to get another chance to hang out with the one and only Rebecca Beyer of Blood and Spicebush fame (find her here: BLOOD AND SPICEBUSH - Blood and Spicebush

We chat about a lot, from being a hedge witch, how she got into teaching in the first place, to her book Mountain Magic, SATOR squares, planting by the sings, and spring ephemerals!

Rebecca Beyer is an Appalachian Folk herbalist, Traditional Witch, and wild food forager dedicated to living simply on the Earth. She has taught and presented at universities, conferences and gatherings over the last 10 years with the hope of showing people that living a seasonal life grounded in connection with the Old Ways is possible. Through growing, foraging, hunting, fishing and preserving her own food, she strives to create a life as close to her ancestors as possible while paying homage to the diverse peoples who created beloved Appalachia.

Rebecca is the author of two books, Mountain Magic and Wild Witchcraft. She makes her living tattooing, teaching foraging and Appalachian folk herbalism and craft classes at her school, Blood and Spicebush School of Old Craft. Rebecca currently spends her days dedicating herself to Appalachian folk arts, primitive skills, folk music and learning the names of all the beings she shares her bioregion with.

#magick #folkmagic #herbalism #herbalmagic #foraging #witch #greenwitch #witchcraft #hedgewitch

In this captivating episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, we delve into the enchanting world of astrology-based gardening with our esteemed guest, Jane Holly Stephens, an ardent herbalist, herb farmer, and the author of 'The Celestial Garden.' Join us as we journey through Jane's inspiring path to plant wisdom, starting from childhood influences to her profound connection with the healing power of herbs. Jane shares the story of her organic herb farm, Four Elements Organic Herbals ( Our Story – Four Elements Herbals) , emphasizing the symbiosis between astrology and horticulture. We explore the practical aspects of lunar and zodiacal planting, the spiritual dimensions of gardening, and the curative potentials of herbs aligned with celestial cycles. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or simply curious about the mystic nexus between the cosmos and cultivation, this episode promises enlightening insights into growing herbs, vegetables, and flowers in harmony with the moon and zodiac.

#astrology #herbalism #gardening #astrologicalgardening #plantingbythesigns

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, we are honored to have Andrew Mason, a Vedic alchemist and practitioner of Ayurveda and astrology. Andrew discusses his newly published book 'Rasa Shastra,' which serves as a comprehensive textbook on Indian alchemy. The conversation dives into the intricacies of Rasa Shastra, the purification of minerals and metals, and their applications in Ayurvedic medicine. Andrew shares fascinating stories about his journey into this ancient practice, from his initial encounter with Ayurveda to his intensive study in Sri Lanka. Listeners will learn about the elaborate processes involved in preparing remedies, including the purification of mercury, and the significance of different elements like gemstones, animal products, and toxic plants in alchemy. Throughout the episode, Andrew provides valuable insights into the purpose and benefits of Rasa Shastra, the importance of purification, and how these potent remedies can be applied today. Whether you're an advanced practitioner of Ayurveda or a curious newcomer, this episode is rich with information and detailed visual descriptions first-hand. Don't miss this enthralling exploration of ancient Indian alchemy on the Plant Cunning Podcast.

Check out our new Patreon! And give a welcome to our guest this week, herbalist, educator and author Tammi Sweet. We talk about the endocannabanoid system, why it's so important, about the differences between "sativa" and "indica" (hint, they're both C. indica subspecies) , what "terpines" are (and why just hanging out with the plant is so amazing), what right relationship with Cannabis looks like, why it's a "master plant" and how to make your own medicine at home! Check her out at https://www.heart-stone.com/ and find her book The Wholistic Healing Guide to Cannabis at your usual book place, or directly from her. 

Join hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill as they welcome back special guest Pam Montgomery, a renowned herbalist, teacher, and author. Broadcasting from Belize, Pam shares her journey of connecting with new plants, especially coconut palms. The episode dives deep into the importance of co-creative partnerships with nature, the concept of plant initiations, and how we can heal our separation from nature. Pam also discusses her new book, 'Co-Creating with Nature: Healing the Wound of Separation' and the profound transformations she's witnessed in her students through plant initiations. Don't miss inspiring stories that challenge the colonial mindset and pave the way for a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

Find Pam at Home - Wake up to Nature

Also, if you'd like to book a Vedic astrology reading with Isaac, email him at info at plantcunning dot com

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:31 Welcoming Pam Montgomery

01:16 Pam's Experience in Belize

02:24 Discovering the Wonders of Palm Trees

05:11 The Generosity of Coconut Palms

09:55 Pam's New Book: Co-Creating with Nature

10:44 The Separation from Nature

25:37 Decolonizing the Mind and Heart

32:58 Taking Action: Co-Creative Partnership with Nature

36:22 Beach Cleanup and Seaweed Uses

37:57 Introduction to Plant Initiations

38:19 The Process of Plant Initiations

39:53 The Role of Elders and Modern Challenges

41:24 Plants as Modern Elders

42:06 Personal and Collective Healing

43:14 Choosing the Right Plant for Initiation

48:57 Stories of Transformation

01:00:36 Course Offerings and Final Thoughts

In this episode we speak with Michael Wilson of Harmony Acres about the benefits of Amanita muscaria and allied species. You can find Michael at AllThingsAmanita.com

In this episode we speak with Deatra and Adam about rediscovering the lost herbal traditions of Eastern European Jews. We talk about the kinds of folk healers, from the ba'alei shem and feldshers to the opshprekherin folk magicians and midwives. We talk about how this knowledge came to be lost, how Deatra found the key to the herbal practices in an old book, and we talk about some of the actual plants that these healers used, from Aristolochia clematatis to Hypericum perforatum. A wonderful conversation of history and ethnobotany. You can find the book at most places you'd buy a book, and Adam and Deatra on Instagram and at their website, https://www.ashkenaziherbalism.net/.

And you can support the podcast at patreon.com/plantcunning

Victoria Bennett, @beewyld, Home (victoriabennett.me) was born in 1971, the youngest of six children. She lived in various places before moving to Cumbria in 1997, where she lived until very recently. After leaving school at 16, she returned to education as a mature student and gained her Masters in Creative Writing from Lancaster University in 2002. She is a recipient of the Northern Debut Award, the Mother’s Milk Writing Prize for non-fiction, and the Andrew Waterhouse Award and the Northern Promise Award for poetry. Her writing was longlisted for the Penguin WriteNow programme and the inaugural Nan Shepherd Prize for underrepresented voices.

Her most recent poetry pamphlet, To Start The Year From Its Quiet Centre, was published by Indigo Dreams in 2020. 

In 1999, she founded Wild Women Press, to provide a creative platform for women in her community, and is the curator of the #Wild WomanWeb project, an inclusive online project focusing on nature, connection and creativity featuring wild women from around the world. 

She lives with genetic illness, diagnosed in later life, including Haemochromatosis, a genetic metabolic disorder which leads to a toxic accumulation of iron in the body, and one of the Ehlers Danlos Syndromes (EDS), a hereditary connective tissue disorder. Her unruly genes continue to rebel and she is well on her way to completing her genetic illness bingo card. 

When not juggling genetic illness, writing and full-time care, she can be found where the wild weeds grow. 

All My Wild Mothers is her debut memoir.

Plant Cunning Conference: https://plantcunningconference.com/ New Moon Mycology Summit: https://www.themyceliumunderground.com/nmms Smugtown Mushrooms: https://www.smugtownmushrooms.com/ In 2011, Smugtown Mushrooms was established because there was a need for mushrooms & growing supplies, workshops, events & community based science in her area. While learning more & embracing the never-ending, unlocked potential mushrooms & fungi have to help heal both people, planet & soul. Olga teaches workshops throughout the continent about wild mushroom identification, medicinal mushrooms, biology, and mushroom cultivation. She was a core organizer for the 2016 Radical Mycology Convergence and the MycoSymbiotics Festival from 2015-17. In 2018, Olga help co-create the New Moon Mycology Summit, a justice-focused, mycology centered event, linking many disciplines extending throughout the living world.

Matthew Wood is an herbalist, educator (at the Matthew Wood institute of Herbalism), and author of several modern classics of American herbalism. His new book, Holistic Medicine and the Extracellular Matrix: The Science of Healing at the Cellular Level helps holistic practitioners validate what we knew all along: this stuff works! In episode we get into the nitty gritty of what the extracellular matrix is, how it works, how it validates holistic modalities like herbalism, cell salts, flower essences and more, and some of the herbs that work directly on the matrix like Red Clover, mushrooms like Reishi and Chaga, and mucilaginous plants like Marshmallow and Opuntia. We also get into some of the problems with modern medical-pharmaceutical-industrial complex and the work of Dr. Don Ingber with Tensegrity and the ECM.

Meet  Greta and Ben of Unadilla Community Farm in West Edmeston, NY. Their  project focuses on educating beginner farmers with the skills required  for farming and homesteading. Their interns help them grow fruits, nuts,  herbs, greens, vegetables to serve the local community through their Veggie Box Program. The interns can choose the classes they wish to take, and which long term projects the wish to work on to hone skills such as carpentry, stone masonry or herbalism. 

We hear about their two pronged approach of changing the  world via community organizing, political advocacy and activism on the  one prong and on the other, actively creating the alternatives to the  systems they are working to change by being as self sufficient as possible  through farming and homesteading, sharing food with the local  community, and training as many folks interested in these skills as  possible. 

We dive deep into the permaculture world talking about  building a food forest and 'dynamic accumulators'. Enjoy!

Unadilla Community Farm Website 

National Young Farmers Coaliton 

The Dynamic Accumulator SARE Grant information

Dr. Dukes Plant Study Database 

In this episode AC and Isaac talk about their summer, the good and the bad, and what's to come.

ZamboniFunk is back on the show to cover the astrological forecast for this fall. It's looking very... fun...

Get tickets for the Plant Cunning Conference here: Plant Cunning Conference – July 26-28, 2024 Join us (AC & Isaac) on the Plant Cunning Podcast as we welcome back astrologer, author, and yogi Mychal A. Bryan. Dive into Mychal's new book on horary astrology, Horary Astrology & the Natal Promise: A Concrete Guide to Astral Divination and discover how his expertise in Iyengar yoga and medical astrology brings unique insights into women’s health. Explore the fascinating realms of horary astrology, dream interpretation, and geomancy. This episode is packed with profound wisdom and practical applications of ancient practices. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion, and be sure to get your tickets for the upcoming Plant Cunning Conference!

#astrology #horary #oraculos #medicalastrology #astrologers #luciddreaming #astraltravel

In this episode we speak with our friend Amanda Breeze about the cannabis business, how to maximize the therapeutic and recreational effects of this master plant, and why it smells like skunk... You can find Amanda at https://linktr.ee/EmeraldTemple

I (Isaac) will be speaking at the AstroMagia conference with is October 8-10, and you can get a 15% reduction before June 12th by using this code: AM22RISE+ at AstroMagia.org. I'll be speaking on 17th century Astrological herbalism and natural magic, and I will be joining an absolutely stacked lineup including Austin Coppock, Demetra George, Christopher Warnock, Lee Lehman and Freedom Cole among others.

Also, I am offering free horary readings one last time before I start charging for them, so email me a burning question to ( info at plantcunning dot com ) before July and I will send you a free analysis. 

In this episode we speak with Dr. Faith Mitchell about her groundbreaking study of Gullah/Geechee plant medicine "Hoodoo Medicine", and about the plants, people, and magic of the Sea Islands. You can find her at: https://www.drfaithmitchell.com/ "I am blessed to have grown up close to the land and to be descended from people who over the generations never lost that connection. When I was a child, Black people were not writing about nature, so I turned to the rich wisdom of my American Indian ancestors. They were my first source of knowledge about healing plants. Then, when I was in college, I visited a Gullah/Geechee community for the first time and had the life changing experience of living with Black people whose lives were grounded in the rhythms and beauty of the Low Country. The natural world was an integral part of their history, stories, cuisine, and healing ways. It’s my honor to preserve some of their deep knowledge in Hoodoo Medicine. When I first visited the Sea Islands very few people on Wadmalaw Island, where I lived, had telephones, cars, or even running water. I was stunned to come upon backwoods settlements that had changed very little in decades. But above all I was affected by the rich, fertile beauty of the Islands and by the strength and integrity of the families I met. I soon discovered that the Sea Islands were as abundant in folk culture—ghost stories, animal tales, the Gullah/Geechee language itself—as they were in animal and plant life. However, the islands were already in transition, and it was clear that the Gullah/Geechee culture was under threat. These first experiences among the Gullah/Geechee people led me to a lifelong interest in African American history and culture, and a commitment to health and progressive social issues. I have a Ph.D. in Medical Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley and am currently a Fellow at the Urban Institute in Washington DC. I blog on health-related topics. My supernatural thriller based on Geechee/Gullah history and customs is The Book of Secrets, Part 1. " #hoodoo #plantmedicine #herbalism #herbalists #herbalmagic #magick #folkmagic #conjure #rootwork #rootworker

We have a great time with Mountain Mel, talking about each of our plant paths, how to run an herbal business (she has a successful one!), and what's in our herbal library.

Check her out at: The Herbalists's Path

Support us at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

In this episode we speak with Ola about her herbal journey, living in East Africa, North America and now Puerto Rico, how different areas have their own plant remedies as well as diseases, how to adapt in a changing world, and the importance of practicing what you preach. 

You can find Ola at https://www.wellofindigenouswisdom.com/

A little duo-cast with AC & Isaac!

In this episode, author, permaculturist, podcaster and magician Gordon White returns to talk about his new book Ani.Mystic, his travels, and shamanic healing.

Christina Stapley ( Medical Herbalist Christina Stapley | Herbalist Workshops & Books) has grown more than 300 herbs, for over 45 years. Her third of an acre teaching garden in Hampshire was featured on television on numerous occasions, most recently she had appeared on Autumnwatch and the Antiques Road Trip, and was popular with visiting groups inspired by her talks. Her herbal practice has encouraged a growing enthusiasm for work in preventive medicine through herbs, diet and lifestyle. This has led to writing both Interactive and Essentials courses on Ageing Successfully, available by email. Now retired as a practitioner, she currently teaches the History of Western Herbal Medicine, Pharmacognosy and Materia Medica for the School of Herbal Medicine in Bridgwater. Christina has written three books on growing and using herbs, Herbwise Naturally, Herbcraft Naturally and Herb Sufficient. Each work is supremely practical with many recipes and background information. Her children’s book The Lemonade Tree for ages 2-6 years is about the animals and birds in the herb garden. Her more recent books on trees in herbal medicine have added experience abroad to a life in herbs. Her new book, A History of Plant Medicine Western Herbal Medicine from the Ancient Greeks to Modern Day is to be released by Aeon Books in late November 2024. #herbalism #history #herbalist #herbalmedicine #podcast #plantmedicine

Lisa is a "a human being, a mother, a way  shower, an artist, a writer and an obsessive gardener. I have spent the  last 30 years working in my gardens, tending and talking to the flowers  and plants that grow there.

I love learning about the plants, not just from books or classes, but directly from my connection and relationships with them."

You can find her at mysoulflower.com

Dina is an herbalist, permaculturist, author and educator from New York. We speak with her about growing up in New York City, the forgotten memories of her early childhood in Mexico, becoming serious about food as medicine at the age of 11, her mentors and teachers, how important diet is to health, and much more! We had a blast, and hope you enjoy the episode!

She'll be opening registration for her online courses from April 10  to April 17th. To access online course sale one would go to this site:  https://www.inthewild.kitchen/

And this is her other site specific to Foraging & Feasting book, blog, events calendar, etc: www.botanicalartspress.com

And check out our patreon at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

Get tickets for the Plant Cunning Conference here: Plant Cunning Conference – September 9-10, 2023

Find Norio here: Norio Kushi

"Throughout his life Norio Kushi followed his passion for wheels: he bicycled up to 90 miles a day as a child, drove a taxi in Boston, started a bus company in Vermont, and pursued a career driving a big rig throughout North America. While driving his truck, Norio stopped thinking for more than two weeks. Through this experience, Norio realized that the “self” we think we are does not exist. The “self” exists only in our thinking, in our internal dialogue, and is the single source of all human suffering. By recognizing the illusion of the self, Norio awakened to complete peace and unconditional love, a natural state that is humanity’s true nature. Norio now shares the insights into the human tapestry into which we’re born and how one may naturally and effortlessly experience our true nature."

Check out the Good Medicine Confluence here: Good Medicine Confluence Check out the Plant Cunning Conference here: Plant Cunning Conference – July 26-28, 2024 In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill sit down with the legendary Jesse Wolf Hardin, a writer, artist, poet, musician, historian, and wilderness restorationist. Wolf shares deep insights into ecological spirituality and the profound connection between humans and nature. The discussion covers his journey on the plant path, the significance of natural healing, and how individuals can reconnect with their wild, natural selves. Jesse also delves into his work with the Good Medicine Confluence and offers inspiring advice on living a more meaningful, purpose-driven life in harmony with the natural world.

#ecospirituality #rewilding #herbalism #greenpath

In this episode we talk with herbalist, educator and author Kat Maier about energetic herbalism, the topics discussed in her new book Energetic Herbalism: A Guide to Sacred Plant Traditions Integrating Elements of Vitalism, Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine. We talk about what energetics are, and why they're important. If you know you're hot, taking hot herbs might make you too hot! So we get into the "doshas" (vata, pitta, kapha) the "tissue states" (hot, cold, dry, damp, tense and lax) and touch on five element theory and vital energy. We had a lot of fun speaking with Kat, and you can find her at www.SacredPlantTraditions.com

And you can support the podcast and gain access to exclusive content at Patreon.com/plantcunning

DISCOUNT CODE FOR PHYSIC: use 'PHYS20' at Physic : A Primer of Herbal Medicine - Julian Barker - Aeon Health (aeonbooks.co.uk)

Get tickets for the Plant Cunning Conference here: Plant Cunning Conference – July 26-28, 2024 In this episode of The Plant Cunning Podcast, we welcome Julian Barker, a renowned herbalist and author. Julian discusses his journey into herbalism, his teachings at the School of Herbal Medicine, his latest book "Physic: A Primer of Herbal Medicine," and his philosophy on natural medicine and human health. The conversation explores the importance of understanding plants and human physiology, the significance of culinary herbs, the concept of terrain in human health, and the value of empathy and witnessing in therapeutic practice. Julian also delves into practical advice for budding herbalists and his vision for integrating plant-based knowledge into everyday health.

#herbalism #medicalherbalism #herbalmedicine #herbs #naturalhealing #holistichealing #herbalist

Today we welcome John Michael Greer (JMG) to the podcast. He is a well respected writer and blogger on the topics of nature spirituality and the future of industrial civilization. Author of over 50 books, he also blogs at https://www.ecosophia.net/ and https://ecosophia.dreamwidth.org/. 

In this episode, AC and Isaac give their top ten tips for surviving the winter.

In this episode we take a deep dive into financial astrology and eclipse paths with esteemed astrologer Bill Meridian. We talk about his groundbreaking work "The Predictive Power of Eclipse Paths" where he builds on the research of astrologers Lorne Edward Johndro and Charles Jayne. You can find his work at https://billmeridian.com/ Bill Meridian is a respected astrologer known for his expertise in financial astrology. Born in 1953, in the United States, Meridian has dedicated over four decades to the study and practice of astrology. Meridian gained prominence for his groundbreaking work in applying astrological principles to financial markets, a discipline known as "astro-economics." He has authored influential books such as "Planetary Stock Trading" and "The Predictive Power of Eclipse Paths," offering investors and traders unique insights into market trends and investment strategies. In addition to his contributions to financial astrology, Meridian is skilled in traditional astrological techniques, including horary and mundane astrology. He has conducted consultations worldwide, assisting individuals in gaining clarity on various aspects of their lives. Through his writing, consulting, and teaching engagements, Bill Meridian continues to be a respected figure in the astrological community, admired for his expertise, accuracy, and dedication to advancing the field. #eclipse #podcast #solareclipse #eclipseseason #eclipses #astrology #astrologer #uranian #predictiveastrology

Check out Gordon at RuneSoup.com and become one of the first Plant Cunning Patrons at Patron.com/PlantCunning

It was a lot of fun to get Gordon's takes on magic, animism, neoplatonism, materialism and permaculture in this conversation. We also talk about how he summoned a dragon to save his farm, which he's told before on his podcast but gives us chills, and asked him to recount it for us!1

Join hosts AC and Isaac Hill on the Plant Cunning Podcast as they dive deep into the world of Ayurveda with Gananathamritananda Swamiji, an Ayurvedic practitioner, astrologer, and pujari based in Virginia who you can find at SOMA MATHA SPIRITUAL CENTER - Home. Discover the complexities of sourcing Ayurvedic herbs, building a Hindu temple in rural Virginia, and the impact of the Flexner Report on modern medicine. Swamiji shares his personal journey to becoming a Swami, the daily life of an Ayurvedic healer, and practical insights into using local herbs sustainably. This episode also features an enlightening discussion on the spiritual path and a beautiful prayer from the Vedas. Don't miss this fascinating conversation that bridges ancient wisdom and modern challenges.

00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast

00:35 Meet Swamiji: Ayurvedic Practitioner and Astrologer

04:47 Challenges in Herbalism and Ayurveda

08:49 Swamiji's Journey into Ayurveda

11:31 Ayurvedic Practices and Spiritual Healing

19:56 The Importance of Traditional Knowledge in Herbalism

27:37 Western vs. Ayurvedic Herbalism

32:51 The Ego's Role in Illness

34:47 Ayurvedic Herbs and Sustainability

42:07 Challenges in Building a Temple

47:57 The Spiritual Path and Self-Realization

52:19 The Shift from Herbal to Pharmaceutical Medicine

01:00:11 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer

In the first episode, we introduce ourselves and the concept of "The Plant Cunning Podcast." We talk about our backgrounds, intentions for the show, and what "plant cunning" means anyway. 

Bevin is an herbalist, educator, homesteader and author of several books, including The Artisan Herbalist, which is a really good manual for making teas, tinctures, salves, oils, and start an herbal products business. He also has a book called Saving Our Seeds about seed saving. We talk about both of these books, about how to balance getting stuff done with not burning out, and paying the bills with making inexpensive, but high quality locals products. We also talk about how he and his partner press their own oils from seeds, and we have a great time. His website is https://www.smallhousefarm.com/ 

And our Patreon is Patreon.com/PlantCunning

In this episode we speak with community herbalist, writer, earth poet and animist mystic Stephen Harrod Buhner about using the heart as an organ of perception, following the "Golden Thread", having plants as primary teachers, pantheistic animism, becoming your own authority, and a bit about his own journey. 

Stephen has written a lot of books, and you should check them all out, but the ones that form the basis of our conversation are "The Secret Teachings of Plants", "Plant Intelligence and the Imaginal Realm" and the others in that series. These books give exercises for developing the heart as an organ of perception, adjusting sensory gating and communicating with plants. 

In this episode we speak with Ars Notoria translator Matthias castle about this intriguing work of medieval angelic magic focused on obtaining knowledge and wisdom. Where did it come from? What does it do? Can you use it to learn Organic Chemistry? What is "angel water"? These and many more questions are answered.

The 13th-century magical treatise Ars Notoria offers a secret account of the angel Pamphilius revealing the sacred magic to King Solomon by which he gained his famed wisdom and learning, thereby expanding upon the biblical narrative in which Solomon received a vision of God. Solomon’s writings were transmitted to the first-century philosopher, Apollonius of Tyana, who provided a commentary entitled the Golden Flowers (Flores Aurei), which is contained within Ars Notoria.
The magical text presents a complete system of angelic magic consisting of prayers addressed to angels, using figures called notae, for the purpose of acquiring scholastic and heavenly knowledge. Due to its rising popularity among university students, the magical ritual was reworked time and again, producing five treatises, dating from the 13th to 15th centuries; The Work of Works (Opus Operum), the Book of Flowers of Heavenly Teaching composed by the French Benedictine monk named John of Morigny, The Short Art (Ars Brevis), the abridged version attributed to Thomas of Toledo, and The Pauline Art (Ars Paulina), thereby establishing an entire notorial art tradition.
In this new and complete translation of Ars Notoria, based on Julien Veronese’s critical Latin edition, translator Matthias Castle presents the classic magical text, both short and long versions, including four of the later treatises. Castle explains how these theurgic ritual practices were performed, giving special attention to all the original pictorial figures (notae), and how the art of memory relates to angelic magic. Providing practical instruction, extensive commentary, and in-depth background research and annotations, Ars Notoria: The Notory Art of Solomon is an essential sourcebook on angelic magic for scholar and magician alike. #solomonicmagic #solomonicmagick #grimoire #magick #ceremonialmagic #ceremonialmagick #angels #angelicmagic #medievalmagic #astrologicalmagic #occult #occultism #esotericbooks #esoteric #esotericism

In this episode we interview herbalist, tattoo artist, folk magician, and author Rebecca Beyer (who you can find on IG at @Bloodandspicebush) about her new book Wild Witchcraft: Folk Herbalism, Garden Magic, and Foraging for Spells, Rituals, and Remedies, gardening, wild crafting, wild tending, and some magical, herbal and edible uses of plants like Poke (Phytolacca americana), Sochan (Rudbeckia laciniata), Elderberry (Sambucus spp.), Mandrake (Mandragora officinarum)  and more!

Here's Isaac's version of True Thomas: https://youtu.be/z7XA2rivLg8

And as usual, you can support the podcast at Patreon.com/plantcunning

In this episode we talk about our early spring, what new plants we're starting (Udo, Chinese Licorice, Ground Plum Milkvetch, Bush Morning Glory, Baptisia tinctoria) etc, our favorite episodes since the last duocast, and how they all fit together. 

Use our affiliate link to register for free, or purchase the recordings for the Women Working for the Earth Summit: https://www.womenworkingfortheearth.com/?ac=UTnGeAhy It's happening NEXT weekend, April 16-24, 2022 online with speakers like Winona LaDuke, Rosemary Gladstar, Rocio Alarcon, Linda Black Elk and Leah Penniman sharing their unique ways of working with nature and each other. 

We welcome Zamboni Funk back on the show to talk about the year ahead. First we start with the context and the bigger picture with the 200 year Saturn and Jupiter cycle, the 84 year Uranus cycle, and then get into the nitty gritty of what all the planets are doing in 2022. We look at a few dates that are really good for certain activities: Early April is good for a concert or party, April 8th is good for dreaming big, May is great for starting garden projects, and there's plenty of time this summer to get into fights, if that's what you're looking for! We had a lot of fun with Zamboni, and wish you all a happy New Year!

You can find Zamboni on Instagram at @ZamboniFunk and Patreon at Patreon.com/ZamboniFunk

And you can support the podcast at Patreon.com/PlantCunning

In this episode, we interview modern cunning man JD Kelley, talk about  how to be a "Jack of all trades, mastering some" and the conference that  he's organizing for next month, Astro Magia at https://astromagia.org/   Some of the leading lights of this field will be speaking, including  Austin Coppock, Freedom Cole, Demetra George and Christopher Warnock.  I'll also be speaking at on the teachings of  17th century astrological  herbalists like Nicholas Culpeper and Joseph Blagrave.  You can find JD at https://www.cunningasfolk.com/

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Cameron Allen, a medical astrologer and herbalist, who shares his intriguing journey into the world of plants and astrology. Cameron discusses his transformative experience with physical healing through herbalism and his introduction to medical astrology, revealing how Passionflower guided him to Portland, Oregon. Moreover, Cameron explains his current practices, including teaching medical astrology, integrating holistic approaches, and the importance of divination in healing. They delve into the intersection of Western and traditional herbalism, the significance of intuitive practices, and the future of integrated healing arts in America. Join them for a profound conversation on self-care, spiritual practices, and the evolving landscape of herbalism and astrology.

We talk with esteemed permaculturist Michael Pilarski about Bill Mollison, science & "woo", working with nature spirits, "Restore the Earth" party, restoring the earth, and making $$$ from growing herbs in a regenerative way.

https://friendsofthetrees.net/michael-pilarski-blog - Michael's site

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG4uqbuuwBGAgC02SHLTnXg - Anna Pallota Channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCylekw2DaAsQHsIWaR-js_A - Friends of the Trees Channel

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNPSTkjWIrl7FD31xbJ5STg - Global Earth Repair Channel

In this episode we speak with Eric about getting interested in plants after finding out he was living in a field of lowbush blueberries, the influence of Frank Cook, natural male birth control with Papaya seeds, and some of his favorite plants.

You can find him on facebook as Eric Joseph Lewis, and on Instragram at @ericjosephlewisplants, and the nursery he is affiliated with is Plant Path Nursery

You can support the podcast at Patreon.com/plantcunning