Have you ever noticed that oak trees sometimes have bumper crops of acorns, and sometimes hardly produce a thing? What causes this? And why?

Join host Griff Griffith and producer Michael Hawk on an exploration of acorn masting (bumper crops), with a special deep dive into one species that profoundly benefits - the charismatic Acorn Woodpecker. 

Along with our special guests, Dr. Walter Koenig (both a masting and Acorn Woodpecker researcher), and Dr. Doug Tallamy (author of The Nature of Oaks), we guide you through the interesting tale of acorn masting, and oaks in general.

This episode is part of a playful exercise in community podcasting, with 6 different shows each producing their own stories about or inspired by the mystery of masting, and releasing them at (approximately) the same time. 

For other masting stories, check out:

• Future Ecologies
• Golden State Naturalist
• Learning from Nature: The Biomimicry Podcast
• Nature's Archive
• Outside/In

We’ll populate this Spotify playlist with all our stories as they come out!

Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, BlueSky and YouTube. 

FULL SHOW NOTES

Links to Topics Discussed and Supporting Resources 

Calscape - find hyper-local native plants in California 

NWF Native Plant Finder

Homegrown National Park and their Map

The Nature of Oaks

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Have you ever found it tough to talk about big issues, especially when people already have strong ideas? In the world of nature and climate, we often see communication that feels more like telling people what to do, or how to think. It's easy for us all to dig in our heels, even if we're wrong, and shut down new ideas. Today, we're exploring a different path.

--

Griff: I was very radical and  had really bad ecological depression because was from the Bay Area and watched all my favorite places get destroyed.

So I was, you know, really felt like the only thing left to do was to fight. And that's where I was at at 18, 19, 20. Pretty much all the way until 23, I was in a very radical mind state. Mostly angry and depressed.

--

That's Griff Griffith, someone many of you know as a passionate environmental communicator and a key collaborator with Jumpstart Nature. Like many, Griff once felt that fighting and lecturing were the only ways to defend the places he loved. But a surprising encounter on a work site with a farmer named Pops changed everything. Griff realized that truly saving biodiversity needed a different approach.

Today, Griff shares his remarkable personal transformation, revealing the power of nuance in communication and how embracing a different approach can yield incredible results for nature. It's a candid and thought-provoking conversation we can all learn from. We also dive into how even dandelions can have a surprising place in conservation—another vivid example of how our perspectives can evolve.

Because this conversation embodies the spirit of both our shows, I'm excited to release it on both the Nature's Archive and Jumpstart Nature feeds! If you're listening on Nature's Archive, know that Jumpstart Nature usually takes you on an immersive journey into thought-provoking topics that help you save biodiversity. 

And if you're on the Jumpstart Nature feed, Nature's Archive brings you deep-dive interviews with top minds in ecology, biodiversity, and nature more broadly. Get ready, because this summer we're gearing up for many new episodes across both feeds! Our new team of volunteers is hard at work, and we already have several amazing interviews recorded that I can't wait to share with you. 

For now, let’s lean in for Griff's truly inspirational story of personal transformation.

FULL SHOW NOTES

Links

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Bringing Nature Home – by Doug Tallamy

Homegrown National Park

Nature’s Best Hope – by Doug Tallamy, Dr. Tallamy’s 2020 release

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Cats are independent, lovable, and endlessly entertaining—but with nearly 100 million outdoor cats in the USA alone, they become one of the most devastating forces against wildlife, killing billions of animals each year. At the same time, outdoor cats face harsh, short lives filled with disease, injury, and danger. So how do we balance our love for cats with our responsibility to protect biodiversity?

Join host Griff Griffith as we explore the complex reality of outdoor cats with veterinarian Dr. Mike Armer, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Release) advocate Allison Fluty, and biologist Sophie Osborn. They’ll tackle tough questions, debunk myths, and reveal how cat lovers and wildlife advocates can find common ground. Whether you adore cats, cherish wildlife, or both, this episode will challenge your perspective—and offer real solutions.

FULL SHOW NOTES with extra resources, including impacts of outdoor cats, ways to enrich your indoor cat's life, and studies on TNR efficacy.

Also check out our full interview with Sophie Osborn to hear more about her efforts to reintroduce endangered birds, and how cats are hindering efforts.

Additional Credits

Filmmusic.io Compositions - License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 009 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/8224-cinematic-suspense-series-episode-009

Imagefilm 018 by Sascha Ende
https://filmmusic.io/en/song/315-imagefilm-018 

Lockdown by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/7658-lockdown

Miles Ewell Compositions:
Principal Dean - Clic [C670 Records]
Principal Dean - ANX

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There’s an invasion happening right under our noses—one that’s likely reached your own backyard. You may have even unknowingly played a part in it.

This is the spread of invasive plants, animals, and fungi. Once removed from their native habitats, these species reproduce rapidly, disrupting ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, and even endangering our food, health, and recreation.

Invasive species are wreaking havoc in every corner of the world, often with our unwitting help. But with knowledge, care, and action, we can turn the tide.

Griff Griffith guides you on a journey explaining how invasive species pose a threat, how they got here, and what you can do. Griff is joined by Dr. Sara Kuebbing (from the Yale School of the Environment), Emelie Swackhamer (Penn State University Extension), and Carl Klarner (Redwood Invasive Plant Eradicators). 

Thanks to Associate Producer Kat Hill and Sound Designer Miles Ewell for their assistance in production of this episode.

FULL SHOW NOTES

LINKS and Additional Information for Topics Discussed

Foreign Seed Scam - did you know there is a scam where people send foreign seeds? Sounds crazy, but it happens. Learn what to do here.

How to Build a Spotted Lanternfly Circle Trap

iNaturalist - you can use iNaturalist to identify plants, fungi, insects, and more, with the help of machine learning and a dedicated community of experts. iNaturalist also flags many invasive species, so take a backyard safari and see what you can find and remove from your yard!

RIPE - Redwood Invasive Plant Eradicators - is Carl Klarner's organization in Northern California. They remove English Ivy from private properties. They have a new instagram account, too.

USDA Invasive Species Database, and their maps serve as a good starting point

Related Podcast Episodes
Jumpstart Nature The Yard of the Future

Additional Credits
The following music was used for this media project:
Music: The Question Is (Quizpackage) by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/228-the-question-is-quizpackage
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Silent Movie 19 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/12433-silent-movie-19
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 008 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/7669-cinematic-suspense-series-episode-008
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Bahnstreik by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/404-bahnstreik
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Additional Music: Cleanse by Principal Dean
Sound Effects from Soundly: getsoundly.com 

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On a 1983 morning, Steve Jobs scouted Coyote Valley for Apple's new headquarters. Despite his plans, Coyote Valley remains one of the most important undeveloped landscapes near Silicon Valley. 

This episode tells the story of its conservation through unexpected alliances, resilience, and the invaluable ecosystem services it provides. From critical wildlife connectivity to indigenous cultural significance, discover how perseverance and community action can protect cherished landscapes. 

Join host Griff Griffith and our guests, Andrea Mackenzie, Amah Mutsun Chairman Valentin Lopez, Megan Fluke, Nick Perry, and Dr. Stuart Weiss as they provide unique and inspiring perspectives as they explore how to protect and steward unique lands like Coyote Valley, whether near Silicon Valley or your own backyard.

Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

For even deeper nature insights, delve into our companion podcast, Nature's Archive.

Sign up for our short, bi-weekly (and solutionary!) newsletter called It's All Connected! Get recommendations for books, podcasts, articles, and more, as well as analysis and learn what YOU can do to help nature.

FULL SHOW NOTES with Photos

LINKS
Amah Mutsun Land Trust

Amah Mutsun Tribal Band

Cars, Cows, Checkerspot Butterflies - Dr. Stuart Weiss's paper

Creekside Science

Green Foothills

Obi Kaufmann

P-22, The Mountain Lion of Hollywood

Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority

Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing

Podcasts Referenced
The Age of Connectivity - Jumpstart Nature Episode 3
Full Interview with Dr. Stuart Weiss on Cars, Cows, and Checkerspots

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What do parasitic plants, 600 year old oak trees, salmon, and hoverflies have in common? Well, they are some of Griff's, Michelle Fullner’s and my favorite wild organisms!

Today’s episode is a fun conversation with Michelle Fullner, Griff Griffith, and myself, Michael Hawk, where we advocate for our 10 favorite animals and plants. We each bring three species to the conversation…well, not physically. And we had a bit of a game to decide who got to pick the 10th one. All I’m saying is that I still think that aphids would be good at soccer, but you’ll have to listen to hear what that’s about.

This idea was all Michelle’s - and if you don’t know Michelle, she’s the host and producer of the Golden State Naturalist podcast, which is a fun and entertaining California-centric nature podcast. Her fourth season is about to launch, and she plans to cover topics that I know you’ll love - wildlife crossings, coastal wetlands, red-legged frogs, and much more. Be sure to check out her podcast and follow her social media, too.

And looking ahead, Jumpstart Nature is in the late stages of three new episodes for this fall, covering invasive species, outdoor cats, and an inspiring land conservation story that succeeded against all odds. And if you’re listening to this on the Nature’s Archive feed, well, we have plenty of fun episodes coming too - covering topics ranging from wildlife forensics to ants!

FULL SHOW NOTES (be sure to check it for some great photos!)

LINKS
Snakes with Emily Taylor - Nature's Archive
Newt Patrol

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Many well meaning people, seeking to help wildlife, mistakenly become a birdnapper. Or a turtlenapper. Or even a bunnynapper.

And it's all too easy to mistakenly harm an animal that you might think is distressed or in trouble. 

Do you know what to do if you see a bird on the ground? Or a turtle in the road? Or newborn bunnies in your yard?

Spurred by a personal story from a follower, Griff and Michael discuss all of these scenarios and more, and wildlife coexistence in general. With a little knowledge of the animals, and a few resources at your disposal (looking at you Animal Help Now), you'll be prepared to be the hero that your neighborhood animals need!

Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn.

Sign up for our short, bi-weekly (and solutionary!) newsletter called It's All Connected! Get recommendations for books, podcasts, articles, and more, as well as analysis and recommendations of things YOU can do to help nature. 

FULL SHOW NOTES

LINKS
Animal Help Now [Apple App | Android App | quick link to emergency flow charts]

All About Birds - easy to use resource to learn about birds, where they nest, what they eat, and more.

California Council for Wildlife Rehabilitators

Merlin Bird ID - wonderful app that helps identify birds

Touching Wings, Touching Wild: True Stories of Rescue and Return to the Wild by Ronnie James [Note: this is an Amazon link]

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Periodical cicadas are amazing animals - they spend nearly 13 or 17 years underground, and all decide, together, to come out and party in your trees at the same time.

They are loud, and perhaps you think they are annoying. But they are one of the most accessible demonstrations of nature's abundance that still occurs.

But cicadas are super important to our ecosystems and the food webs that support life. Their story is full of history, drama, and even optimism. And right now, as this is being released in 2024, a rare "double emergence" is occurring.

So now is the time to give cicadas a second look, and see just how magical the "magicicada" genus is.

Host Griff Griffith, with the help of renowned cicada researchers Dr. Chris Simon, Dr. Gene Kritsky, and Dr. Matt Kasson, as well as All Bugs Go to Kevin founder Kevin Wiener, takes a fun, and sometimes disturbing look at cicadas, why they matter, and how they reflect biodiversity in general.

See the Full Show Notes and photos on Jumpstart Nature's web page.

Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube.

For even deeper nature insights, delve into our companion podcast, Nature's Archive.

Sign up for our short, bi-weekly (and solutionary!) newsletter called It's All Connected! Get recommendations for books, podcasts, articles, and more, as well as analysis and recommendations of things YOU can do to help nature.

Links to Topics Discussed
All Bugs Go to Kevin: Facebook Group | YouTube Channel
Cicada Safari App
cicadas.uconn.edu - perhaps the best, most authoritative resource on periodical cicadas
The full length interview with Dr. Chris Simon is available on Nature's Archive podcast feed.

CREDITS
This podcast episode was written, edited, and produced by Michael Hawk. Our host and co-writer is Griff Griffith. Kat Hill provided editing assistance.

Thanks to the team at cicadas.uconn.edu for allowing us to use some of their recordings of periodical cicadas, as well as Kevin Weiner for use of his photos and audio.

The following music was used for this media project:
Music: Lofi Prairie  by Brian Holtz Music
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9247-lofi-prairie
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Have you ever seen a bird or a tree, and wondered what it is? Why did that bird show up here? How come I've never seen that tree anywhere else?

Just a few years ago, you'd need to consult an expert or spend loads of time reviewing field guides and natural history books to get those answers.

Today, the answers are at your fingertips. And with curiosity comes the satisfaction of learning.

Explore the transformative power of the iNaturalist app through the journeys of Jennifer Rycenga, a humanities professor turned nature enthusiast, Joseph Montes de Oca, a high school foreign languages teacher,  and Cat Chang, an  architecture professor and now, an iNaturalist board member.

Hear how this technology is connecting millions globally, from identifying species to contributing to vital science databases.

And learn how YOU can join the movement and start your own adventure today!

>>> See the full show notes and images on jumpstartnature.com<<<  

 Beyond a podcast, Jumpstart Nature is a movement fueled by volunteers, igniting a fresh approach to reconnecting people with the natural world. In the face of our pressing climate and biodiversity challenges, we're on a mission to help you discover newfound purpose and motivation.

Join us in this vital journey towards nature's revival. Explore more and show your support at jumpstartnature.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and  YouTube.

Links to Topics Discussed
The City Nature Challenge
Alison Young's Nature's Archive interview about the City Nature Challenge
Eastern Grey Squirrel observations on iNaturalist - A North American species that has been introduced in many places around the world
How-to Use iNaturalist: Mobile Phone, Website, and iNaturalist's in-depth videos
The Yard of the Future - Jumpstart Nature podcast episode from last season

CREDITS
This podcast episode was written, edited, and produced by Michael Hawk. Our host and co-writer is Griff Griffith.

The following music was used for this media project:
Music: Imagefilm 033 by Sascha Ende
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/535-imagefilm-033
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Music: Mystical Autumn by MusicLFiles
Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/9755-mystical-autumn
License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Jumpstart Nature's next season is making great progress, but it's still a few weeks away. So we decided to share one of our top episodes from our sister podcast, Nature's Archive. It's with Dr. Doug Tallamy, the world renowned author, entomologist, native plant advocate, and co-founder of Homegrown National Park (instagram).

In this episode of Nature's Archive, Dr. Tallamy discusses why oak trees are perhaps the most important tree on Earth! And despite their reputation, there are oak trees in all sizes - and you may be able to plant one in a small yard! Be sure to check out Dr. Tallamy's latest books, including The Nature of Oaks and Nature's Best Hope.

And please check out Nature's Archive! If you are interested in birds, mushrooms, butterflies, beavers, regenerative agriculture, snowflakes, climate change, wildfire, and so many other nature topics, there is likely an episode that you'll enjoy. 

Full Show Notes

LINKS
Bringing Nature Home
California Native Plant Society CalScape native plant finder
Homegrown National Park (instagram)
Kenneth V. Rosenberg - lead author of study showing 3 billion birds have been lost
Michelle Alfandari - Partnered with Doug to create Homegrown National Park
Nature’s Best Hope
Sudden Oak Death
The Nature of Oaks

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