In this episode, we trace the deep roots of New York City’s natural and cultural history—from the legendary 1626 exchange between the Lenape people and Dutch settlers to the enduring presence of iconic trees today. Along the way, we uncover how nature has shaped the city’s identity, from the elegant American elms of Central Park to symbolic landmarks like Harlem’s Tree of Hope and the Survivor Tree at the 9/11 Memorial.

We’re also joined by Mayank Mardiya of Mulch, who shares how rewilding efforts and community gardening initiatives are transforming neglected urban spaces into vibrant green sanctuaries. Together, we explore how small acts of collective care can reconnect us to nature—and to each other—right in the heart of The Big Apple.

This week’s episode was written and recorded in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes.

This episode was written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Actor, naturalist, and tree enthusiast Tobin Mitnick (@jewslovetrees) joins us this week for a delightfully rooted conversation about what it means to really see a tree.

Best known for his hilarious and heartfelt social media content blending botany and comedy, Tobin has become an unexpected ambassador for curiosity, joy, and ecological attention. In this episode, we explore how he invites people to get up close and granular with trees — to allow each wild and wonderful tree to help you “chase all your cares away.” 

We talk about his book Must Love Trees: An Unconventional Guide, his journey from actor to unexpected arborist, and how humor can be a profound tool for connection — to each other and to the natural world. Tobin reminds us that the impulse to learn and the instinct to laugh are deeply intertwined, and that awe doesn’t have to be solemn. Sometimes reverence looks like walking through your neighborhood, naming the trees, and assigning them irreverent personalities! 

Together we reflect on Jewish identity, stewardship, and finding spiritual and comic resonance in nature. It’s a conversation full of wonder, wit, and the grounding reminder that every tree has a story — and some of them are funny.

This week’s episode was written and recorded on the native lands of the Chumash, Tongva (Gabrieleno), Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), Pawtucket people, and Lenapee tribes. 

This episode was produced by Jonathan Zautner, and co-written & co-edited by Jonathan Zautner and Dori Robinson

More about Tobin Mitnick can be found at www.tobin-mitnick.com, and Must Love Trees. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ — every contribution supports our production, and we offer gifts of gratitude to patrons at every level. If you liked this episode, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or share it with a friend. Every kind word helps this forest grow.

Join us on Tree Speech as we uncover the remarkable legacy of Lizzie McDuffie — a pivotal yet often overlooked figure in American history.

In this episode, we're joined by author ⁠Shara Moon⁠ to discuss her powerful novel Let Us March On, inspired by the life and activism of McDuffie. As a maid in FDR’s White House, Lizzie McDuffie was more than a witness to history — she was a catalyst for it, quietly championing civil rights from within the halls of power.

Together, we explore how McDuffie’s quiet courage and tireless advocacy planted the seeds of change that would grow for generations. Shara’s insights bring depth and humanity to this unsung heroine’s story — where activism, justice, and resilience intertwine to shape a legacy that still resonates today.

Listen in as we explore the themes of nature, patience, and political action, highlighted in Shara's novel. This conversation uncovers the historical threads of activism, justice, and the enduring wisdom of trees, offering insights into our present moment.

As we honor Lizzie McDuffie's bravery and resilience, we invite you to reflect on her enduring impact and the lessons her legacy imparts. Join Dori Robinson for a special guided meditation to nurture the seeds of potential within us. Through the metaphor of cherry blossoms, we are reminded of the tenacity required for growth and renewal.

This week’s episode was written and recorded in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes and in Florida on the land of the Mascogo Tribe.

This episode was written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Join us on a captivating journey to Broadway as we explore the enchanting world of "⁠Redwood⁠", a new musical that intertwines theater with the timeless majesty of redwood trees. This episode takes you behind the scenes of this extraordinary production, starring the remarkable Idina Menzel and a redwood tree named Stella. Joining us is Emmy Award-winning scenic designer Jason Ardizzone-West, who shares his journey from architecture to creating breathtaking theatrical environments. Jason’s innovative designs transform Stella into a living symbol of resilience and the nurturing power of nature, making her an essential character in this poignant storytelling experience.

Discover how "Redwood" beautifully weaves together themes of connection, healing, and the intrinsic bond between humans and nature. Jason discusses his creative process and the artistic challenges faced in bringing the visual world of "Redwood" to life. Envisioning the stage as a canvas for protagonist Jesse's emotional journey, the set design invites audiences into a realm where the roots of history and ancestry intertwine with the narrative. The inclusion of Tikkun Olam adds depth, emphasizing the call to mending the world through small acts of hope and renewal.

Reflect on the wisdom whispered by the redwoods and the strength found in their unseen roots that ground us all. This episode explores how the metaphor of the trees amplifies the story’s core themes, encouraging listeners to embrace resilience and the interconnectedness of life. With heartfelt gratitude to Jason Ardizzone-West for his artistry, we are reminded of the profound impact that thoughtful design and storytelling can have on our lives, enriching our understanding of nature and ourselves. Tune in for an immersive journey of wonder, beauty, and inspiration that promises to linger long after the final curtain call.

Jason Ardizzone-West is an Emmy Award-winning stage designer based in New York whose work spans theater, concerts, dance, film, and architecture. From intimate black-box theaters to massive stadium arenas, he creates embracing environments that transform storytelling into shared, deeply human experiences. Originally trained as an architect, Jason brings an innate understanding of space, light, and time to his designs, crafting visual narratives that bridge the physical and emotional landscapes of performance. most recently, he designed the Broadway musical Redwood, which Jesse Green of The New York Times described as “among the most beautiful and wondrous theatrical creations I can recall.”

Jason has collaborated with visionary theater-makers such as Tina Landau, Richard Nelson, Es Devlin, Pam Mackinnon, Mira Nair, David Leveaux, Sheryl Kaller, Susan Stroman, and more. his work also extends to global superstars, including Lady Gaga, Lana del Rey, The Weeknd, Beyoncé, Dua Lipa, Idina Menzel, Hikaru Utada, Usher, Phish, Pentatonix, and Florence + The Machine.

His achievements include an Emmy Award for Jesus Christ Superstar Live (nbc) and multiple nominations for his innovative contributions to theater and live performance. His designs have appeared in renowned institutions such as The Public Theater, The Atlantic Theater company, American Conservatory Theater, The Apollo, La Jolla Playhouse, Berkeley Rep, The Huntington, and St. Ann’s Warehouse, among many others.

This week’s episode was written and recorded in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes. 

This episode was written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

What if you could rediscover your roots and connect with the wisdom of your ancestors to find peace amidst the chaos of modern life? Emmy-nominated TV host, author, and storyteller Robyn Moreno joins us to explore this intriguing question. Robyn shares insights from her transformative book, "Get Rooted," which chronicles her personal journey of healing and self-discovery. Her story reveals the power of listening to subtle signals from within and reconnecting with nature and ancestral wisdom to navigate life's challenges more gracefully.

Through Robyn's heartfelt sharing, we uncover the importance of patience, self-forgiveness, and gentle care in the healing process. Her reflections on processing grief, understanding family dynamics, and confronting generational trauma offer a profound reminder that healing is a gradual, ongoing journey. Robyn's concept of "re-watering" the seeds of ancestral wisdom encourages us to embrace both the light and shadows within our heritage, ultimately leading to a deeper connection with ourselves and our community.

Our conversation also touches on the transformative role of community, nature, and ritual in personal growth, reminding us of the profound interconnectedness of life. Robyn highlights the significance of building a personal "medicine bag" of resources, emphasizing practical and accessible healing practices. We find inspiration in her journey and the words of poets like Adrienne Rich, who illustrate the importance of acknowledging beauty and nature amid global challenges. Join us as we draw strength from these insights and embrace our quest for a more rooted and joyful existence.

Robyn Moreno is an Emmy-nominated TV host, former Editor-In-Chief and Co-President of Latina Media Ventures, podcast host, and celebrated author and storyteller devoted to helping others reconnect with their roots and reclaim their joy. She has been a guest on the Today show, Good Morning America, and many others, sharing her expertise on culture, wellness, and personal empowerment and has written 4 books, including the one we discuss today entitled: Get Rooted: Reclaim Your Soul, Serenity, and Sisterhood Through the Healing Medicine of the Grandmothers. After years in the fast-paced world of media, Robyn pivoted toward a life of a different purpose, healing, and ancestral connection, inspiring others to live authentically and unapologetically. 

In her book Get Rooted, Robyn shares a deeply personal journey of healing and self-discovery. The book follows her 260-day path toward healing that begins after events in her life lead her to a total breakdown.

Find Robyn at robynmoreno.com.

This week’s episode was written and recorded in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes. 

Tree Speech is co-written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner and we thank ⁠⁠Alight Theatre Guild⁠⁠ for their support. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

In honor of Valentine's Day, this episode is full of love! We are excited to celebrate the holiday by examining the 5 Love Languages and how they apply to trees. Dori Robinson also leads a meditation around love and the Jewish New Year of Trees, Tu B'Shevat, which also occurs this week.

Click here for more information on the Melbourne Urban Forest Visual with information.

Click here for examples of letters sent to the trees in Melbourne.

Find information about the Park Avenue Armory's Wish Tree Installation here

This week’s episode was written and recorded in Massachusetts on the native lands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), and Pawtucket people, and in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes. 

Tree Speech is co-written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner and we thank ⁠⁠Alight Theatre Guild⁠⁠ for their support. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Happy New Year! We are starting the year fresh with a wintry labyrinth walk to commemorate this season of light. Along the way, we will examine the history and traditions of this Yuletide, shedding 2024 behind us and looking ahead to 2025. With every turn within the labyrinth, we discuss various winter traditions – including the 12 days of Christmas and Yule. We end with a meditation focused on light and the birch tree, so that we enter the new year ready for all that awaits!

This week’s episode was written and recorded in Massachusetts on the native lands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), and Pawtucket people, and in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes. 

Tree Speech is co-written, edited, and produced by Jonathan Zautner and we thank ⁠Alight Theatre Guild⁠ for their support. 

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

It’s Giving Tree Week! Listen to our highly-anticipated episode focused on the nostalgic and controversial Shel Silverstein book, THE GIVING TREE, which has been questioned by many since its premiere 60 years ago.

In this episode, we share a brand new audio narrative written by playwright, actor, and advocate Jamie Roach, who felt compelled to examine, explore, and celebrate the classic book by continuing the story where the original leaves off. Join us to listen to this beautiful, thought-provoking, and new story!

The actors include Laurine Towler and Richard Brundage with Jamie Roach as Narrator. Music, Sound Design and Editing by Jonathan Zautner.

Robin Wall Kimmerer essay link: "Returning the Gift".

This week’s episode was recorded and produced in Massachusetts on the native lands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), and Pawtucket, and in Wisconsin on the lands of the Ho-Chunk, Potawatomi and Menomonee  people. Tree Speech is produced by Alight Theater, and produced and co-written by Jonathan Zautner who is also the sound editor and designer for this episode.

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Today’s guest, John Philip Newell, is an internationally acclaimed teacher, speaker, and author of several books, including Sacred Earth Sacred Soul, and his latest book entitled The Great Search, which examines the lives of several prophetic figures whose work and lives showed that to live in relation to what is deepest in us is to live in relation to the ground from which we and all things have come.

John Philip Newell is a Celtic teacher and author of spirituality who calls the modern world to reawaken to the sacredness of Earth and every human being.

In 2016 Newell began the Earth & Soul initiative and teaches regularly in the United States and Canada as well as leading international pilgrimage weeks on Iona in the Western Isles of Scotland.

His PhD is from the University of Edinburgh and he has authored over fifteen books, including his award-winning publication, Sacred Earth Sacred Soul, which was the 2022 Gold Winner of the Nautilus Book Award for Spirituality and Religious Thought of the West. His new book, also with HarperOne (and published in the UK by Wild Goose), is The Great Search (August 2024), in which he looks at the great spiritual yearnings of humanity today in the context of the decline of religion as we have known it.

Newell speaks of himself as ‘a wandering teacher’ following the ancient path of many lone teachers before him in the Celtic world, ‘wandering Scots’ (or scotus vagans as they were called) seeking the wellbeing of the world. He has been described as having ‘the heart of a Celtic bard and the mind of a Celtic scholar’, combining in his teachings the poetic and the intellectual, the head as well as the heart, and spiritual awareness as well as political and ecological concern. His writings have been translated into seven languages. In 2020 he relinquished his ordination as a minister of the Church of Scotland as no longer reflecting the heart of his belief in the sacredness of Earth and every human being. He continues, however, to see himself as ‘a grateful son of the Christian household’ seeking to be in relationship with the wisdom of humanity’s other great spiritual traditions.

To learn more about our podcast and episodes, please visit ⁠⁠treespeechpodcast.com⁠⁠ and consider supporting us through our ⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠ - every contribution supports our production, and we’ll be giving gifts of gratitude to patrons of all levels. Please also consider passing the word, and rate and review us on Apple podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Gather round the campfire for a very special, supernatural episode. We have spooky, mysterious tree tales from around the world to get you into the halloween spirit! Listen now, if you dare!

Special thanks to Cheryl Mullings, Charles Linshaw, Corey Roberts, and Emerald Forcier for joining our episode today. Learn more about Cheryl at https://cherylmullings.workbooklive.com/, Charles at: https://www.charleslinshaw.com, Corey at https://coreymroberts.weebly.com, and Emerald at https://www.penobscotbayestate.com.

This week’s episode was recorded and produced in Massachusetts on the native lands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), and Pawtucket, in Wisconsin on the lands of the Ho-chunk, Potawatomi, and Menominee people, and in Maine on the lands of the Pernobscott tribes.

Tree Speech is produced, co-written and edited by Jonathan Zautner with Alight Theater Guild.

Learn more about the podcast at: www.treespeechpodcast.com, and IG: treespeechpodcast