Tree Talks podcast

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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