Episodes

  • Steve Chisholm

    Steve Chisholm
    Sep 25 2024

    Summary

    In this episode of the Tree Actions podcast, Dwayne, Tony, and guest Steve Chisholm discuss Steve's connection to trees and his journey in the tree care industry. They explore topics such as the evolution of tree care practices, the impact of historical events on the industry, and the challenges of retaining employees in a family business. The conversation also touches on the importance of tree preservation and the misconceptions surrounding the role of trees in oxygen production. In this conversation, Steve Chisholm and Dwayne discuss the state of affairs with credentialing and trade associations in the tree care industry. They talk about the historical progression of credentialing in New Jersey and the challenges faced in making an arborist licensing process. They also discuss the role of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the development of certification standards. Steve shares his perspective on the tight-knit community in the tree care industry and the value of networking at conferences. They touch on the importance of ethics in the industry and the changes in the ISA's code of ethics. They also discuss the use of cranes in tree work and the legislative battles surrounding their use. Finally, they talk about the A300 standards for tree care and the different approaches to pruning.


    Takeaways

    • Tree care practices have evolved over time with advancements in technology and tools.
    • Historical events and political factors have influenced the tree care industry, such as changes in tree preservation attitudes and land use.
    • Retaining employees in a family business requires creating a supportive and inclusive work environment.
    • Trees play a vital role in oxygen production, although other factors like algae and plankton also contribute.
    • Building a successful tree care company involves treating employees like family and fostering strong relationships. Credentialing in the tree care industry has a rich history, with New Jersey having the oldest and toughest exam in the nation.
    • Trade associations like the ISA play a crucial role in developing certification standards and promoting professionalism in the industry.
    • Networking at conferences and events is a valuable opportunity to connect with peers, share knowledge, and improve the industry as a whole.
    • The use of cranes in tree work has faced legislative challenges, but standards and guidelines have been developed to ensure safe practices.
    • The A300 standards for tree care provide detailed guidelines for pruning and other tree care practices, with a focus on safety and best practices.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Guest Introduction

    08:22
    Historical and Political Impact on the Tree Care Industry

    16:18
    Challenges and Strategies for Retaining Employees in a Family Business

    39:23
    The Role of Trade Associations in Promoting Professionalism

    52:49
    The Legislative Battles Surrounding the Use of Cranes in Tree Work

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    • Laurie Prince
    • Peter LaRue
    • Scott
    • jason dommer
    • Andrew Hordyk
    • Mark Przekurat
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    • Dwayne Sr.
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Judy Shigo

    Judy Shigo
    Sep 11 2024

    Summary

    Judy Shigo, daughter of Dr. Alex Shigo, shares memories of her childhood and her father's passion for trees and mushrooms. She recalls how they would explore the woods together, build forts, and appreciate the smells and beauty of nature. Judy also discusses her father's transition from working for the Forest Service to pursuing his own research and writing books. She highlights his attention to detail, his emphasis on connections and terminology, and his dedication to educating others. Additionally, Judy mentions her father's artistic side, his love for music, and his ability to find balance between work and recreation. In this conversation, Judy and Dwayne discuss various aspects of Al Shigo's work and legacy. They talk about his research on the impact of wood on the sound of musical instruments and his book titled 'Music, Vibrations and More'. They also discuss Al Shigo's approach to education and his emphasis on accurate information and research. They touch on his publications, ranging from basic booklets to technical books, and his focus on teaching people about trees. They remember his punctuality and respect for others' time, as well as his ability to connect with people and engage in meaningful conversations. Judy and Dwayne go on to discuss the impact of trees on their own lives and the importance of understanding tree biology. They mention Al Shigo's book 'Pithy Points' and its unique blend of humor, philosophy, and educational content. They highlight the importance of simplicity and repetition in conveying messages about trees. The conversation concludes with a reflection on Al Shigo's passion for trees and his lasting impact on the field of arboriculture.


    Takeaways

    • Dr. Alex Shigo's passion for trees and mushrooms influenced his daughter Judy from a young age.
    • He emphasized the importance of connections and terminology in his work and teaching.
    • Judy recalls her father's transition from working for the Forest Service to pursuing his own research and writing books.
    • Dr. Shigo had an artistic side and enjoyed music as a form of recreation.
    • He found a balance between work and leisure, and his love for nature and education was evident in all aspects of his life. Al Shigo conducted research on the impact of wood on the sound of musical instruments, emphasizing the importance of wood quality and energy in producing different vibrational frequencies.
    • Al Shigo's publications ranged from basic booklets to technical books, catering to different levels of understanding and providing information for a wide range of readers.
    • Al Shigo was punctual and respected others' time, emphasizing the importance of keeping presentations on schedule and giving everyone a fair chance to speak.
    • Al Shigo had a passion for trees and a deep understanding of tree biology, which he aimed to share with others through his books and educational efforts.
    • Al Shigo's book 'Pithy Points' offers a unique blend of humor, philosophy, and educational content, encouraging readers to think differently about trees and their care.
    • Al Shigo's legacy extends beyond his own accomplishments, as he inspired others to conduct research, seek accurate information, and continue learning about trees.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Childhood Memories and the Love for Trees

    08:35
    Transition from Forest Service to Independent Research

    15:27
    The Importance of Connections and Terminology

    41:09
    The Impact of Wood on Musical Instruments

    48:31
    A Range of Publications for Different Audiences

    55:57
    Passion for Trees and Understanding Tree Biology

    01:06:14
    Punctuality and Respect for Others' Time

    01:19:19
    Inspiring Others to Learn and Conduct Research

    Thanks to our monthly supporters
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    • Scott
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    • Dwayne Sr.
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    1 hr and 27 mins
  • Brian Goodall

    Brian Goodall
    Aug 23 2024

    In this episode, Dwayne, Tony, and Brian discuss their first experiences and memories of feeling a connection to trees. Brian shares his childhood memories of climbing trees in his mom's and grandparents' backyards. They also discuss the importance of tree identification and how it can be a secret art. Brian talks about his journey into the tree care industry, starting with working for a Parks district and eventually starting his own business. Tony shares his perspective on the decision to be a business owner or a tree worker. The conversation explores the evolution of climbing systems and the impact of tree work on personal and family life. Brian shares his experience with different climbing systems and the restrictions and options available to Bartlett climbers. The conversation also touches on the big companies in the industry and the process of approving new gear and equipment. The conversation explores the process of bringing new ideas and innovations into the tree care industry. It discusses how climbers within an organization can propose new configurations or deviations from the norm and how these ideas are evaluated and implemented. The conversation also touches on the importance of relationships, empathy, and self-awareness in leadership, as well as the challenges of managing dissenters and maintaining a balance between innovation and safety.


    Takeaways

    • Childhood experiences with trees can create a lasting connection and love for them.
    • Tree identification is an important skill for arborists and tree enthusiasts.
    • The decision to start a business in the tree care industry depends on personal circumstances and goals.
    • Being a business owner in the tree care industry requires balancing tree work and business management. The evolution of climbing systems in the tree care industry has led to the development of various options and configurations.
    • Tree work can have a significant impact on personal and family life, with children often showing interest in the industry.
    • Bartlett and other companies have protocols and restrictions in place to ensure the safety and consistency of climbing gear used by their employees.
    • The process of approving new gear involves collaboration and discussion among regional safety managers and a voting committee.
    • The big three companies in the industry are often considered to be Davey, Bartlett, and Asplund. The process of bringing new ideas and innovations into the tree care industry involves climbers proposing deviations from the norm and having them evaluated and implemented.
    • Safety coordinators and managers play a crucial role in relaying innovative ideas from climbers to higher levels of the organization for evaluation.
    • The evaluation process involves vetting the proposed ideas by regional teams, trainers, and skilled climbers to determine their feasibility and potential risks.
    • Maintaining a balance between innovation and safety is essential, and it requires considering the potential risks and benefits of new configurations or equipment.
    • Building strong relationships, practicing empathy, and being self-aware are important skills for leaders in the tree care industry to navigate challenges and manage dissenters.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Welcome

    15:09
    Brian's Journey into the Tree Care Industry

    36:28
    Balancing Tree Work and Personal/Family Life

    48:20
    Gear Approval and Restrictions in Bartlett

    54:55
    Balancing Innovation and Safety: Considering Risks and Benefits

    01:06:14
    The Importance of Relationships, Empathy, and Self-Awareness in Leadership

    Thanks to our monthly supporters
    • Chris Girard
    • Laurie Prince
    • Peter LaRue
    • Scott
    • jason dommer
    • Andrew Hordyk
    • Mark Przekurat
    • Michael Tain
    • Dwayne Sr.
    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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    1 hr and 15 mins
  • Phillip Kelley

    Phillip Kelley
    Aug 14 2024
    In this episode, Philip Kelley shares his journey in the tree care industry. He recalls his first connection with trees as a child, particularly with mulberry trees. He discusses the cultural significance of mulberry trees and their importance in certain cultures. Philip then talks about his transition to climbing trees professionally and the challenges he faced, including learning knots and climbing techniques. Philip reflects on the motivation and gratification he finds in tree work, as well as the energy expenditure and efficiency in the industry. This conversation explores the changing work practices and evolving connection to trees in the arboriculture industry. The importance of purpose and environmental impact is discussed, along with the need for a less-is-more approach to tree pruning. The concept of leaving smaller wounds on mature trees is emphasized, as well as the lessons that can be drawn from trees in personal life. The importance of collaboration, community, and passing on knowledge is highlighted, as well as the need for mentoring and creating a legacy. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-care, mental health, and redefining work-life balance in the industry.TakeawaysMulberry trees have cultural significance in certain cultures, such as ancient Chinese culture.Transitioning from climbing with spurs to climbing without spurs can be challenging but offers new opportunities.Becoming a certified arborist can open doors to better job opportunities in the tree care industry.Tree work provides a sense of gratification and accomplishment, as well as the opportunity for constant learning and new experiences.Efficiency and production are important factors in tree work, but it's essential to balance them with safety and environmental considerations. Embrace changing work practices and evolve your connection to trees as you mature in the industry.Consider the purpose and environmental impact of your work, and explore solutions that allow trees to give back to the environment.Adopt a risk assessment approach that is based on knowledge and experience, and avoid unnecessary fear-mongering.Take a less-is-more approach to tree pruning, considering the impact on the tree and the necessity of the work.Draw personal lessons from trees and apply them to your own life and growth.Collaborate with others and contribute to the arboriculture community, passing on knowledge and creating a legacy.Prioritize self-care, mental health, and work-life balance in the industry.Understand the why behind your work and the history of arboriculture to make informed decisions and build a strong foundation.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:02First Connection with Trees05:03Transition to Climbing Trees Professionally06:08First Job Climbing Trees09:14Learning Knots and Climbing Techniques11:41Transition to Climbing without Spurs13:33Introduction to Throw Line16:31Becoming a Certified Arborist21:19Transition to ArborGuard and Learning from Experienced Arborists22:58Motivation and Gratification in Tree Work26:42Energy Expenditure in Tree Work29:11Thoughts and Energy30:17Efficiency and Production in Tree Work30:34Changing Work Practices and Connection to Trees31:21The Importance of Purpose and Environmental Impact32:14Evolving Risk Assessment and Decision-Making33:36Less is More Approach to Tree Pruning34:09Minimizing Wounds on Mature Trees35:18Drawing Personal Lessons from Trees36:07Compartmentalizing and Moving Forward37:35Trees as a Community and Giving Back38:11The Stone Soup Story38:28Passing on Knowledge and Creating a Legacy39:44Passion and Leadership41:08The Power of Collaboration and Community45:28The Importance of Combining Resources48:30Stages of Growth and Giving Back49:57The Need for Mentoring and Legacy52:27The Gap in Experienced Arborists54:48The Importance of Understanding Tree Biology56:04The Energetic Connection with Trees58:14The Shift in Training and Mentoring01:03:41The Importance of Self-Care and Mental Health01:05:08Redefining Work-Life Balance and Fun01:10:39Understanding the Why and the History01:13:21The Importance of Awareness and Change Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris GirardLaurie PrincePeter LaRueScottjason dommerAndrew HordykMark PrzekuratMichael TainDwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Eric Peterson

    Eric Peterson
    Aug 14 2024
    In this episode, Eric Peterson discusses his connection to trees and the tranquility of the forest. He shares his experience planting trees on his property and the design considerations involved. Eric also talks about the importance of insurance in the tree care industry and the need for professional credentials. He emphasizes the need for continued education and training to improve safety in the industry. Eric highlights the challenges in the auto insurance sector and the impact on tree care companies. Overall, the episode explores the connection between humans and trees, the importance of professionalism, and the ongoing efforts to improve safety and training in the industry. This conversation explores the importance of driver training and safety in the tree care industry. It discusses the need for companies to address driving risks through guidelines, training, and qualification processes. The conversation highlights the role of insurance companies in promoting safety and the need for industry standards. It emphasizes the importance of insurance and homeowner awareness in driving change. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the connection between safety and the quality of life for tree care workers.TakeawaysCamping trips and outdoor experiences often lead to a connection with trees and the tranquility of the forest.Planting trees on personal property can provide shade, recreation space, and a connection to nature.Insurance plays a crucial role in the tree care industry, and companies should prioritize safety and risk management.Professional credentials, such as ISA certification, demonstrate a commitment to the industry and can help improve safety and professionalism.Auto insurance challenges, including rising rates and accidents, require increased focus on driver training and safety measures. Driver training and safety are crucial in the tree care industry to prevent accidents and injuries.Companies should establish driving record guidelines and take action against drivers with poor records.Qualification and training are essential for drivers to handle specialized equipment and tasks.The use of spotters and proper backing-up skills can significantly reduce accidents.Insurance companies can play a role in promoting safety by setting requirements for coverage.Industry standards and credentialization can help ensure a higher level of professionalism and safety in the industry.Homeowners should ask tree care companies about their insurance coverage to protect themselves and their workers.Safety in the tree care industry is not just about work but also about the overall quality of life for workers.Chapters00:00Introduction and Location00:30First Connection to Trees03:28Sounds of the Forest04:06Planting Trees on Property04:56Designing the Tree Planting05:20Natural Look of the Landscape06:33Connection to Trees in Current Life07:06Insurance and Tree Care08:49Selecting Tree Care Companies09:52Insurance and Credentialing11:53Public Perception of Tree Care13:16Homeowners and Tree Companies14:14Insurance and Risk Assessment20:30Credentialing and Recognition23:30Professionalizing the Industry25:08Importance of Documentation and Training28:00Importance of Safety Training for Workers29:07Importance of Tailboard Training32:23Auto Insurance Challenges in the Industry35:48Driver Training and Safety37:00Addressing Driving Risks38:28Qualification and Training39:33Importance of Backing Up Skills41:21Defensive Driving and Safety Practices43:14The Role of Spotters in Safe Driving44:41The Impact of Negligent Entrustment46:57The Role of Insurance Companies in Promoting Safety50:20Distracted Driving and Cell Phone Use53:29The Need for Industry Standards and Credentialization55:01The Importance of Insurance and Homeowner Awareness58:09The Evolution of the Tree Care Industry01:00:48The Role of Insurance Companies in Driving Change01:03:45The Connection Between Safety and Quality of Life Thanks to our monthly supporters Chris GirardLaurie PrincePeter LaRueScottjason dommerAndrew HordykMark PrzekuratMichael TainDwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Kristin Moldestad

    Kristin Moldestad
    Jul 17 2024
    In this episode, Dwayne and Tony are joined by Kristin Moldestad, an arborist and author from Oslo Norway. They discuss Kristin's childhood memories of playing in her grandparents' garden with plum and apple trees. Kristin shares her experiences with nature mapping and the importance of preserving culturally significant species. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the unique characteristics of tree roots and the discovery of their diverse nature. This conversation explores the discovery and impact of underground root research, as well as the creation of a unique root identification book. It highlights the importance of roots and the power of documentation in gaining respect for them. We discuss the intriguing aspects of roots, such as their age and growth, and emphasize the need to protect tree roots. The conversation concludes by exploring the spiritual and energetic connection that humans have with trees and the potential for future root research. In this conversation, Kristin discusses the importance of studying finer roots and the possibility of holding workshops to teach others about root identification. The conversation also touches on the historical connection and sense of history that trees provide, as well as the joy of reading trees as books. The passion and variety of arboriculture work is highlighted, along with the significance of properly stacking brush. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of teaching and the interface between trees and people.TakeawaysUnderground root research is a crucial area of study that has been lacking in the field of arboriculture.The creation of a root identification book has had a significant impact, both professionally and personally, by providing valuable knowledge and promoting respect for roots.Books hold a higher value than digital media, as they require more effort and time to create, and provide a tangible reference for information.Roots play a vital role in the health and stability of trees, and understanding their growth and behavior is essential for tree care and preservation.There is a deep spiritual and energetic connection between humans and trees, which can be experienced through activities like forest bathing and tree climbing. Studying finer roots is important for understanding root health and identifying diseases.Trees provide a sense of history and can be read like books, telling stories of growth and change.Arboriculture work offers a variety of experiences and challenges, making each day unique.Properly stacking brush is essential for efficient tree work and reduces the effort required for processing and removal.Teaching and helping others in the field of arboriculture can be rewarding and empowering.Chapters00:00Introduction and Slow Talking in Norway02:15First Connection to Trees: Childhood Memories04:04Communication through Plum Trees06:25Trees and Viking Burial Grounds08:12Ash Trees and Viking Folklore09:35Preserving Old Oak Trees10:59Nature Mapping and Red Listed Species13:36Preserving Legacy and Intrinsic Value22:09Discovery of Unique Tree Roots26:13Fascination with Different Roots27:07The Discovery of Underground Root Research28:04The Impact of the Root Identification Book29:26The Importance of Roots and the Power of Documentation30:00The Value of Books and Written Documentation31:07The Process of Creating the Root Book32:30The Unique Format of the Root Book33:00The Significance of Root Identification34:05The Intriguing Aspects of Roots35:18The Age and Growth of Roots36:19The Importance of Protecting Tree Roots37:17The Unique and Credible Nature of the Root Book38:06The Potential for Root Pictures in Tree ID Books39:14The Spiritual Connection to Trees41:01The Innate Connection to Trees43:16The Healing Power of Trees45:22The Meditative State in Trees46:25The Energetic Feeling of Trees47:23The Personal Connection to Trees50:48The Connection to Roots During Excavation52:57The Importance of Protecting the Entire Ecological System56:37The Future of Root Research58:10Studying Finer Roots and Holding Workshops59:19Encouraging Tree Workers to Explore Roots01:00:28Recommended Books for Arborists01:02:34The Historical Connection and Sense of History from Trees01:03:00Reading Trees as Books01:03:31The Fascination with Tree Growth and Response to Stimulus01:04:40The Secret Soul of Trees01:05:07The Unique Beauty of Tree Roots01:06:09The Passion and Variety of Arboriculture Work01:06:42The Journey into Arboriculture01:08:26The Importance of Properly Stacking Brush01:09:53The Connection and Commonality Among Arborists01:11:20The Pleasure and Passion of Arboriculture01:12:44The Never-Ending Learning and Uniqueness of Arboriculture Work01:13:30The Joy of Teaching and Launching Learners01:14:07The Value of Teaching and Helping Others01:16:30The Synergy and Flow of Teaching and Learning01:17:38The Interface Between Trees and People01:18:27The Longer Life and Appreciation Urban Trees Receive01:19:05The Independence and ...
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Robert Phillips

    Robert Phillips
    Jul 3 2024
    SummaryIn this episode, Bob shares his early experiences in the tree business and his connection to trees from a young age. He discusses his relationship with Don Blair and Ed Hobbs, highlighting the innovations they brought to the industry. Robert emphasizes the importance of history in arboriculture and the need to preserve and learn from the past. He also discusses the challenges and compromises in urban tree planting and the role of arborists in educating customers and advocating for proper tree care. Throughout the conversation, the concept of the human forest and the interconnectedness of trees and communities is explored. The conversation explores the value of trees and the sense of stewardship they inspire. It delves into the challenges of pricing tree care and the importance of local tree care providers. The long-term investment in trees and the slow language of trees are discussed, highlighting the need for patience and understanding. The conversation also touches on the legacy of tree climbing innovations and the evolution of various rope techniques. The challenges and rewards of tree climbing competitions are explored, along with the passion and sacrifice inherent in tree work. This conversation explores the evolution and significance of tree climbing competitions, the changing importance of community in the tree climbing community, and the value of chapter competitions. It also delves into the origins and purpose of tree climbing competitions, the innovation of throw lines and throw bags, and the fascination with new equipment and technology. The conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the willingness to share knowledge. It also touches on the spirit of abundance and co-opetition in the industry and the next steps for arborists. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of building relationships and letting go of competition.TakeawaysEarly experiences in the tree business shape a lifelong connection to trees.Preserving and learning from the history of arboriculture is crucial for the industry's progress.Urban tree planting often faces challenges and compromises, requiring arborists to advocate for proper care.The concept of the human forest highlights the interconnectedness of trees and communities. Trees have immense value and should be seen as living entities that require stewardship.Pricing tree care can be challenging due to the many decisions that need to be made and the financial considerations of clients.Local tree care providers offer unique benefits and a personal touch that may be lacking in larger companies.Investing in trees is a long-term commitment that may not yield immediate benefits but can have a significant impact on future generations.Trees communicate in a slow language that requires patience and attentiveness to understand.Tree climbing competitions provide opportunities for innovation and learning, but also come with pressure and unpredictability.Innovations in tree climbing techniques have revolutionized the industry and improved safety and efficiency.Tree work requires passion and dedication, and the rewards go beyond financial gain.Chapters00:00Introduction and Connection to Trees01:30Early Experience in the Tree Business05:16Evolution of the Hobbs Lowering Device06:07Innovations by Ed Hobbs07:00Involvement with Associations08:10Extensive Collection of Arborist Artifacts09:23Progression of Arboriculture and Importance of History10:23Instilling the Importance of History12:11The Human Forest Concept13:11Responsibility and Discipline in Arboriculture15:13Legacy of Alex Shigo18:29Changing the Perception of Tree Care20:47Challenges in Urban Tree Planting22:28The Forest Model and Urban Environment24:11Maintaining Sanity in Arboriculture28:54Public Perception of Tree Care30:47Compromises in Tree Care33:17Balancing Tree Care and Customer Satisfaction35:08The Value of Trees and Stewardship36:04The Challenges of Pricing Tree Care37:32The Importance of Local Tree Care39:47The Long-Term Investment in Trees41:28The Slow Language of Trees43:14Carrying on the Message of Tree Care45:55The Legacy of Tree Climbing Innovations48:01The Evolution of Stationary Rope Techniques51:31The Challenges and Rewards of Tree Climbing Competitions56:06The Learning Experiences and Disasters of Innovations58:31The Pressure and Randomness of Tree Climbing Competitions01:01:05The Passion and Sacrifice in Tree Work01:04:31The Transition from 40 to 50-Foot Climbs01:09:40The Correlation Between Competitive Climbing and Passion for Tree Work01:11:54The Evolution of Tree Climbing Competitions01:12:20The Changing Importance of Community in Tree Climbing01:12:50The Value of Chapter Competitions01:13:31The Origins of Tree Climbing Competitions01:14:29The Purpose of Tree Climbing Competitions01:16:02The Role of Tree Climbing Competitions in Training and Safety01:17:19The Evolution of Throw Lines01:18:28The Innovation of Throw Bags01:19:48The Museum of Arboriculture ...
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    1 hr and 42 mins
  • Jack Phillips

    Jack Phillips
    Jun 19 2024

    In this episode, Dwayne, Tony, and Jack Phillips discuss their earliest memories of connecting with trees. They explore the concept of human forestry and the importance of cultivating a connection with nature throughout our lives. They also discuss the wisdom of trees and the power of relationships in both the natural world and our own lives. The conversation explores the importance of relationships, the legacy of Dr. Shigo, the value of being present, the journey vs. the destination, and the impact of tree planting. It also discusses the importance of creating space for exploration. In this conversation, the topics covered include leadership and personal growth, teaching and learning holistically, the impact of holistic teaching, levels of training and transformation, silence and communal connection, the power of silence and nature, reconnecting with nature, communing with trees and wildlife, creating space for silence and connection, the impact of silence on learning, and book recommendations.

    Takeaways

    • Childhood experiences in nature, particularly with trees, can have a profound impact on our connection with the natural world.
    • Human forestry is the concept of recognizing and honoring the interconnectedness of all living beings, including trees.
    • Cultivating a connection with nature is essential for our well-being and can be achieved through practices such as meditation, yoga, and spending time in natural environments.
    • Trees teach us the importance of relationships and the value of community and connection. Healthy, loving, caring, and deeply connected relationships are essential for personal growth and fulfillment.
    • Dr. Shigo's legacy includes his emphasis on touching trees and exploring their relationships, as well as his dedication to the journey of learning and discovery.
    • Being present and taking in the surroundings is important for truly experiencing and appreciating the natural world.
    • The journey of learning and exploration is often more valuable than the destination.
    • Tree planting has a significant impact on communities and the environment, and arborists play a crucial role in caring for trees and educating others about their importance.
    • Creating space for exploration and philosophical discussions can enhance the understanding and appreciation of trees and nature. Leadership begins with personal growth and self-improvement.
    • Teaching holistically and focusing on the how rather than just the what can have a profound impact on learning.
    • Silence and communing with nature can help individuals reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
    • Creating space for silence and connection can enhance learning and personal growth.

    Chapters

    00:00
    Introduction and Childhood Memories

    09:12
    The Concept of Human Forestry

    25:46
    Cultivating the Connection with Nature

    33:31
    The Importance of Seeing Trees as a Whole

    35:43
    The Wisdom of Trees and the Power of Relationships

    38:20
    The Importance of Relationships

    41:37
    The Legacy of Dr. Shigo

    42:56
    The Value of Taking in the Surroundings

    45:08
    The Importance of Being Present

    46:27
    The Journey vs. the Destination

    48:57
    The Hunger Moon and Naming Desires

    53:18
    Maturity and Education

    54:05
    Dr. Shigo's Legacy

    54:46
    The Unfinished Book: The Soul of a Tree

    58:06
    The Importance of Touching Trees

    01:02:09
    The Book Collaboration with Dr. Shigo

    01:05:37
    The Impact of Tree Planting

    01:08:29
    Creating Space for Exploration

    01:10:50
    Leadership and Personal Growth

    01:12:01
    Teaching and Learning Holistically

    01:13:28
    The Impact of Holistic Teaching

    01:14:28
    Levels of Training and Transformation

    01:15:42
    Silence and Communal Connection

    01:19:13
    The Power of Silence and Nature

    01:21:24
    Reconnecting with Nature

    01:23:07
    Communing with Trees and Wildlife

    01:26:08
    Creating Space for Silence and Connection

    01:29:13
    The Impact of Silence on Learning

    01:32:22
    Book Recommendations

    01:38:37
    Reflecting on the Conversation

    Thanks to our monthly supporters
    • Chris Girard
    • Laurie Prince
    • Peter LaRue
    • Scott
    • jason dommer
    • Andrew Hordyk
    • Mark Przekurat
    • Michael Tain
    • Dwayne Sr.
    ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
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    1 hr and 41 mins