In this episode, we feature two fascinating interviews that explore the intersection of landscape, history, nature, and personal journey. First, Paul Stamper, who leads an immersive course on the grand history of Great English Estates and Landscapes at Oak Spring, takes us on a dive into the evolution of English landscapes. Paul chats with Chris about how his personal interest in landscapes and history developed, with a particular focus on the coevolution of country houses and agricultural buildings and practices. Then, we hear from Paula Whyman, author of Bad Naturalist: One Woman's Ecological Education on a Wild Virginia Mountaintop, a humorous and heartfelt memoir about restoring a piece of land in the Blue Ridge foothills. Paula reflects on her lifelong affinity for animals and the natural world, and shares how managing her property has allowed her to explore that passion—while navigating the numerous challenges and rewards of land stewardship along the way.

Visit here to sign up for Paula's monthly newsletter where she shares about new things shes doing and discovering in the mountaings and lots of photos! Tickets for Paula's book talk on Thursday, Janurary 16, 2024 at 4:30pm can be purchased here. 

To learn more about Paul's class and apply, visit here. 


Host: Chris Stafford
Oak Spring website: https://www.osgf.org/
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Produced by Hollowell Studios