Nature, Gardening, LGBT, Podcast, John McCallen, MentalHealth, Content Creation, Identity, Ecosystems, Community

Summary

In this episode of 'What's Up Buttercup', host RobbieBlackhall-Miles engages in a heartfelt conversation with gardener, online content creator and naturalist John McCallen. They explore John's journey from a technology careerto becoming a prominent figure in the gardening community, discussing the intersection of nature and identity, the importance of engaging audiencesthrough content creation, and the therapeutic role of nature in managing stress. The conversation also touches on societal perceptions of gardening, the balance between adult entertainment and nature, and the beauty of ecosystems.John shares his insights on how to connect people with the natural world, emphasizing the need for love and protection of our environment.

Takeaways

• John's journey into gardening began in childhood.
• Nature plays a crucial role in mental health and stressrelief.
• The importance of engaging content to connect withaudiences.
• Gardening is often perceived differently in society,especially for men.
• John's work in adult entertainment intersects with hispassion for nature.
• Morning rituals in the garden help manage stress.
• The beauty of ecosystems can inspire love and protection fornature.
• Community and identity are intertwined with natureexperiences.
• The shift in perception of hybridized plants versus wildtypes.
• Content creation requires balancing personal passion withaudience engagement.

Chapters

00:00 What's Up , John McCallen?

00:15 Introducing John McCallen

04:23 Balancing Passion and Career

11:20 Overcoming Stereotypes in Gardening

14:06 Coming Out as a Nature Enthusiast

17:11 Maintaining Passion Amidst Work

20:21 The Nature Boy Experience

23:14 Reactions from the Adult Entertainment Industry

33:42 The Challenge of Building a Following

35:14 The Importance of Nature in Stress Management

38:06 Morning Rituals and Connection to Nature

41:53 Navigating Social Media and Content Creation

45:14 Adapting to Change in Creative Careers

48:28 Rediscovering Childhood Passions

50:31 Engaging Audiences Through Personal Connection

54:44 The Beauty of Local Ecosystems

59:26 The Joy of Nature and Community

01:02:08 Reflections on Nature and Human Influence

01:06:40 And the internet cut out!

Links

John's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccallen/?hl=en

Introducing 'What's Up Buttercup?' the new podcast that explores that broad green stripe in the Rainbow Flag - our queer space in Nature.

'Have you ever been called Pansy?' Why would one flower be deemed such a negative thing yet another (Buttercup for instance) be a term of endearment? Why would being a 'nature nerd' invite ridicule?

Where do our queer lives and nature meet? How can nature heal?

Join podcast's host, Robbie Blackhall-Miles, as he takes you on a journey to why he is starting this new podcasting adventure. He cast a light on how nature has always provided a safe space for him, and how, in his past, he denied that space to 'fit in'. He also lets you know what to expect of 'What's Up Buttercup?' in future episodes.