In this episode of Conversations with Nature, host Joyce Veheary is joined by Participatory Architect and Bryologist, Hester Buck.

We explore the quiet radicalism of moss with guest Hester speaking from the perspective of 'Pin Cushion Moss'. Hester invites us to rethink our relationship with nature—not as stewards acting from above, but as interdependent participants in an “entangled care.” As Hester put it, this isn’t about humans protecting nature out of paternalism—it’s about seeing how we already rely on each other to survive.

We dig into folk histories, surprising scientific facts, and the rich ecological role of moss—from filtering air, slowing water movement to reduce flooding, and exhibiting strong antibacterial properties. We also challenge the violent language of gardening: what if, instead of words like “scarifying” lawns or “scraping" away what we perceive as mess and we spoke of welcoming moss? Noticing it, celebrating it, letting it flourish in the cracks.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Conversations with Nature! 🌿✨
If you enjoyed the show and you’re curious to learn more please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review — it’ll help more people discover the wonders of nature! 🌍🌱

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Thank you for listening to this episode of Conversations with Nature! 🌿✨
If you enjoyed the show and you’re curious to learn more please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review — it’ll help more people discover the wonders of nature! 🌍🌱

Want to learn more or stay connected?

📲 Follow us on social media: @listentonature.bsky.social
💌 Have feedback or a topic idea? Email us at: [email protected]

Support the show:
✨ Buy a cuppa via Ko-Fi https://ko-fi.com/conversationswithnature

Please join us next time for more conversations about the fascinating world around us. 🌸🐝

In this episode of Conversations with Nature, host Joyce Veheary is joined by naturalist and bee advocate Jean Vernon. Jean gives her voice to nature explore the captivating world of the solitary leaf-cutter bee. 

Speaking from the perspective of ‘Bee’, Jean shares her passion for pollinators and their critical role in nature, contrasting the solitary lifestyle of leaf cutter bees with the more familiar honeybee. [0:01-1:54]

As Bee, Jean delves into the unique behaviours of leaf cutter bees, from a near  year-long life in her cocoon to her intricate process of collecting pollen, nectar, and sculpting leaves for nests. 

Discover the fascinating gender dynamics that help protect and ensure the survival of Bee’s species. [1:55-9:05] Hear about the the dangers she faces, including predators and harmful pesticides that threaten food sources and her offspring. [9:52-14:09]

Take away a deeper understanding of how you can contribute to the survival of leaf cutter bees and other pollinators.

There’s practical advice on how humans can help, from planting bee-friendly flowers to creating natural habitats in gardens. [21:05-25:40] Even with limited space, everyone can help. Small changes can make a big impact in supporting Bee on her journey.

Thank you for listening to this episode of Conversations with Nature! 🌿✨
If you enjoyed the show and you’re curious to learn more please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a review — it’ll help more people discover the wonders of nature! 🌍🌱

Want to learn more or stay connected?

📲 Follow us on social media: @listentonature.bsky.social
💌 Have feedback or a topic idea? Email us at: [email protected]

Support the show:
✨ Buy a cuppa via Ko-Fi https://ko-fi.com/conversationswithnature

Please join us next time for more conversations about the fascinating world around us. 🌸🐝