What if trees could whisper secrets of the past? Join us as we venture into the eerie realm of haunted trees and ghostly tales in our special episode of spooky trees. As the season of Samhain approaches and the veil between the living and the dead grows thin, we share chilling stories from Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn to the Mabira Forest of Uganda to Salem, Massachusetts.

Join our guest storytellers Allison Meier, Emerald Forcier, Cheryl Mullings and Charles Linshaw around the fire as we share these macabre tales and embrace the spirit of the season. Listen now, if you dare...

This week’s episode was recorded in Massachusetts on the native lands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, Pennacook, Massa-adchu-es-et (Massachusett), and Pawtucket people, as well as in New York on the land of the Lenapee tribes, and in Wisconsin on the lands of the Ho-chunk, Potawatomi and Menomonee people, and in Maine on the lands of the Pernobscott tribes. Special thanks to the Western Avenue Lofts and Studios for all their support. 

Tree Speech is produced and co-written by Dori Robinson and Jonathan Zautner.

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

Join us as we embrace the magic of the autumnal equinox, celebrating September's unique duality through the power of poetry and rituals. Drawing inspiration from the evocative work of Alix Klingenberg, we explore how this transitional time invites us to balance urgency with ease and preparation with presence. Through traditions and the wonders of the season, we honor change and navigate our paths toward peace.

Throughout the episode we highlight Alix Klingenberg's "Quietly Wild," a poetic exploration resonating with nature's cycles and the themes of ecology and social justice. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of change, growth, and the interconnectedness of earth and self.

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

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

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 wherever you listen to podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

What if transforming into a tree was not a punishment but a conscious, enriching choice? Join us as we explore this intriguing concept with our guest, Sumana Roy, author of "How I Became a Tree." Sumana shares her personal journey towards identifying with trees, driven by a longing to escape the emotional turbulence of human existence. Through our conversation, we uncover the profound philosophical and emotional connections humans can form with the natural world and challenge the notion of transformation by finding peace and meaning in adopting a tree-like existence.

This week’s episode was written and recorded in New York on the land of the Lenape 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 wherever you listen to podcasts. Every kind word helps. 

Join us on a captivating journey into the world of trees and the profound connection we share with them, as we welcome Marguerite Holloway, author of "Take to the Trees," to our podcast. Marguerite's journey from a tree-climbing novice to a passionate canopy explorer is an inspiring tale of adventure, resilience, and personal transformation. Listen in as we explore her motivations behind writing a book that blends science, memoir, and adventure, offering a vivid portrayal of the beauty and challenges faced by our forests. Her insights, enriched by personal reflections on loss and resilience, provide a compelling narrative on the intricate bond between humans and nature.

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

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.