Planthropology

Vikram Baliga, PhD

If you're on this planet, plants have a HUGE impact on your life. Whether you're a vegan, a carnivore, or somewhere in between, plants are the basis of the food you eat, the clothes your wear, and the air you breathe. We don't intend just to teach you plant facts (though we'll do plenty of that), but to give you some insight into the cool people who work with them. From the soil to the plate to the climate, dive into the anthropology of plants (get it?) and learn a little more about why you should care about the world around you from the people who care about it the most. read less
ScienceScience

Episodes

107. Deep Dive- Crisis Communication in Agriculture with Dr. Erica Irlbeck
4d ago
107. Deep Dive- Crisis Communication in Agriculture with Dr. Erica Irlbeck
What's up, Plant People?? It's our first Deep Dive episode in quite a while. I was super excited to get to talk to my friend, Dr. Erica Irlbeck, again on the show. Erica is a Professor of Ag Communications, the Associate Dean of Outreach and Engagement for the Davis College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources at Texas Tech, and the author of the Crisis Communication Guide for Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources. We talked about everything from good communication, to working with the media, to life in academia, and so much more. It was a fun and insightful conversation, and I know you're going to get a lot out of it! Get in contact with Erica and pick up a copy of her book from the links below!Erica's Faculty PageErica's InstagramThe Crisis Communications Guide for Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
106. Conservation Dogs, Spotted Lanternflies, and Horrifying Elevators w/ Melissa McCue-McGrath
Apr 18 2024
106. Conservation Dogs, Spotted Lanternflies, and Horrifying Elevators w/ Melissa McCue-McGrath
Ever find yourself marveling at the uncanny connection you share with your furry best friend? Our latest podcast episode takes us on an expedition into the heart of human-canine relationships, with Melissa McCue-McGrath, a true trailblazer in dog training and conservation, leading the way. Celebrating Melissa's birthday, we tap into her wealth of knowledge, from the psychological bonds we forge with our dogs to their astonishing roles in ecological conservation.Navigate the bustling world of urban canines with us as we examine the sensory challenges these city dwellers face and the importance of fulfilling their intrinsic needs. Discover how the power of scent enriches a dog's life and strengthens our bond with them. Then, we shift to the open fields, where working dogs like border collies find joy and purpose in tasks that tap into their natural instincts. These stories are not just about companionship; they're about acknowledging and harnessing the innate drives that make our dogs feel most alive.Turning the focus beyond companionship, this episode also shines a light on the critical environmental work dogs are carrying out. From tracking down invasive species like the spotted lanternfly to assisting in marine biology research, our four-legged friends are on the front lines, aiding in the protection of our ecosystems. As we wrap up, we touch on the cozy debate about dogs sharing our beds and the warmth of the bonds we share. Join me, Vikram Baliga, for an enlightening journey through the remarkable world where humans and dogs meet, work, and thrive together.Find all things Melissa, book her for dog training, and pick up her book on her website, and follow her on Instagram! Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
105. Native Plants, Academic Optimism, and Liquid Smoke w/ Dr. Robert Cox
Apr 4 2024
105. Native Plants, Academic Optimism, and Liquid Smoke w/ Dr. Robert Cox
What's up, Plant People?? I hope you're well! My guest today is a long-time mentor and friend, Dr. Robert Cox.  Dr. Cox is a restoration ecologist whose wisdom in prairie ecosystems and passion for academia are as deep-rooted as the native species he studies. This episode is full of stories from Dr. Cox's academic adventures, which began in herpetology and evolved into the long-time study of plant ecology. We discussed a little bit of everything, from some of the roles fire and smoke play in plant germination to how Dr. Cox's career has ranged from researcher, to professor, to an Associate Dean's at Texas Tech University. We also had an encouraging conversation about the future of our students and education as a whole. Dr. Cox paints an optimistic and inspiring picture of the young minds that walk the halls of higher education today, shaped by the rapid changes of our times. Together, we reflect on the paradigm shift in teaching, moving from information dispensers to mentors in critical thinking. Finally, we spent some time chatting about native plants and the roles they play in our world. Ecological restoration has been one of Dr. Cox's major areas of focus throughout his career, and he has some really interesting and meaningful thoughts on what it means to restore a landscape and an ecosystem in light of climate change and our needs for agricultural production. I learned a lot from this conversation and left it feeling encouraged, and I hope that you'll feel the same! Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
102. Climate Change, Saving Us, and Relentless Hope w/ Dr. Katharine Hayhoe
Feb 22 2024
102. Climate Change, Saving Us, and Relentless Hope w/ Dr. Katharine Hayhoe
What's up, Plant People? Have you ever felt the weight of the world's climate crisis on your shoulders, yet struggled with the notion that one person's actions might be too insignificant to make a difference? Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, an atmospheric scientist, joins us to shatter that misconception with her infectious optimism and practical strategies for individual impact. Through tales from her life's journey and her book "Saving Us," Katharine tells a story about life and hope that empowers each of us to take up our own torch in this fight against climate change.This is an episode that was a long time in the making and one that I'm so incredibly proud of. I first approached Katharine about being on the show a couple of years ago, and everything finally lined up for it to happen. I'm a huge fan of her work, and I was so honored to not only get to interview her, but to be a guest editor for her newsletter, Talking Climate! Join us for an uplifting conversation that I hope will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to make a tangible difference in the world.You can find Katharine all over the internet, but the best place to start for all of her amazing work is on her website, www.katharinehayhoe.com! Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
101. Garden Life, Cozy Gaming, and the Chelsea Flower Show w/ Kay Luthor
Feb 8 2024
101. Garden Life, Cozy Gaming, and the Chelsea Flower Show w/ Kay Luthor
What's up, Plant People? Today's episode blooms with the extraordinary tale of Kay Luther, a Chelsea Flower Show gold medalist turned game developer whose story is as rich and vibrant as the gardens she designs. In an industry where creativity and adaptation are as crucial as soil to seed, Kay shares her journey from the flower-bedecked lanes of Chelsea to the pixel-perfect landscapes of her serene game, "Garden Life." As she weaves tales of her floristry days, the artistry behind each bouquet, and the social media-driven resurgence of houseplants, we're reminded of the unique beauty in every career transition.Venturing into the heart of the floral design world, we uncover the parallels between arranging flowers and fashion, reflecting on how both fields dance to the rhythm of societal trends. Kay's anecdotes about the meticulous crafting of award-winning floral pieces for the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show draw a vivid picture of success and the humility that walks alongside it. We also turn the soil on "Garden Life," exploring how Kay's floristry skills have blossomed into game development, nurturing a project that marries the unpredictability of nature with the tranquility of gaming.As we wrap up our time with Kay, the conversation turns towards the emotional investment in launching a new venture and the importance of embracing diverse career paths. With a nod to the cozy gaming community and the floral industry's future, we're invited to consider how our own experiences can cross-pollinate and flourish in unexpected ways. We also get a glimpse into the excitement building up to the release of "Garden Life," where players can cultivate their digital green thumb, and find out where to connect with this budding gaming experience online. Join us in this episode for a tapestry of life lessons, career insights, and the celebration of new growth, both in our gardens and ourselves. Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
100. Plants to the Rescue!
Jan 25 2024
100. Plants to the Rescue!
What's up, Plant People! After a much longer-than-expected hiatus, I'm finally back with Episode 100! It's been a wonderful 4(ish) years, and I thought the perfect way to celebrate the past and look forward to the future was to talk about a project that's so close to my heart and that I haven't really had a chance to discuss much on the show. My first book, Plants to the Rescue, came out in July of 2023 and is something that means so much to me. Join me as I walk through the process of writing a book like this, from the basic ideas to publishing, and read a few excerpts of text with me! I also talk a bit about what's coming down the line for Planthropology in 2024, from interviews with a climatologist to a video game producer, and so much more! It's going to be an exciting year, as the show gets going again, and I can't tell y'all how much it means to me that you hung in with me through such a long break. I love all of you Plant People out there, and can't wait to spend more time with you this year!  Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
99. Go Outside Kids, Staring at Plants, and Hugging Mountain Lions w/ Sarah Southerland
Jun 22 2023
99. Go Outside Kids, Staring at Plants, and Hugging Mountain Lions w/ Sarah Southerland
What's up Plant People! Today's guest is someone who I've unabashedly called, on multiple occasions, "The Funniest Person on the Internet." She was reluctant to wear the title, but I'm sticking with it! Sarah Southerland is the communication and social media specialist with the Oklahoma Dpeartment of Wildlife Conservation. Her social media presence is *wildly* popular across several platforms and consistently makes me laugh out loud. Whether talking about why we shouldn't snuggle mountain lions or discussing the finer points of live jackets, Sarah's communication style is brilliant, effective, and hilarious. We talked about life, nature, good communication, moon fish, prairies, and so much more! This episode was so much fun and I know you won't be able to stop smiling the whole time! Sarah's LinksTwitterInstagram Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation LinksTwitterInstagramTiktok Website  Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
98. Your Brain on Plants, the Stress Buddy System, and Selective Green Thumbs w/ Morgan Johnston
Jun 9 2023
98. Your Brain on Plants, the Stress Buddy System, and Selective Green Thumbs w/ Morgan Johnston
What if you could explore the complexities of the human brain while also discovering the fascinating world of plants? Join me as I sit down with behavioral neuroscientist Morgan Johnston, aka Ask a Neuroscientist, for an engaging conversation about these two seemingly unrelated worlds. You'll learn how Morgan's journey from a small farming community to the world of neuroscience research has helped her uncover unique connections between plants and humans.We dive into the effects of various chemicals and drugs on the brain, and how both plants and humans cope with stress. Morgan shares her insights on the evolutionary development of similar molecules in plant and animal systems, as well as how studying these interactions informs our understanding of mental and physical health. You'll also hear about our experiences in using animal models to study human behavior, and the critical role stress and anxiety play in our lives.As we wrap up our discussion, we emphasize the importance of science communication and the need for reaching diverse audiences in today's world of misinformation. We share anecdotes from our own research, and explore the challenges of navigating academia and pursuing a career in science. Don't miss this enlightening episode with Morgan Johnson, where neuroscience and plant science collide to create a world of wonder and discovery.Morgan's LinksTikTokInstagramYouTubeTwitterWebsite Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
97. Grandma's Plant Magic, Succulent Struggles, and a Creative Life w/ Amanda McLoughlin
May 5 2023
97. Grandma's Plant Magic, Succulent Struggles, and a Creative Life w/ Amanda McLoughlin
What's up Plant People?? I don't want to spoil too much of this fantastic conversation, but today's episode with Amanda McLoughlin was super special to me. When I first starting to get into podcasts, Amanda's show, Spirits,  was a huge inspiration. I was so thrilled when she reached out wanting to chat about her passion for houseplants! What started off as a discussion on growing plants indoors turned into a lovel  conversation about family, life, careers, passion projects, life as a creative, and so much more! Make sure you go subscribe to Spirits and get ready for a great episode here with Amanda! Amanda's LinksTwitter Instagram Multitude ShowsSpirits TwitterSpirits Instagram  Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
96. Efficient Agriculture, Measuring Impact, and Scientific Storytelling w/ Dr. Clint Krehbiel
Apr 28 2023
96. Efficient Agriculture, Measuring Impact, and Scientific Storytelling w/ Dr. Clint Krehbiel
What's up Plant People?? I'm honored today to have Dr. Clint Krehbiel, Dean of the Texas Tech University Davis College of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources, as a guest! Dr. Krehbiel has a background in Animal Science and ruminant nutrition and was on faculty at New Mexico State University, Oklahoma State University, and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln before joining us at Texas Tech at the beginning of 2023. He's a wealth of knowledge and experience and is passionate about education, research, and a sustainable future for agriculture. We had a great conversation about being passionate and working hard wherever you are, the importance of outreach and communication, and the intersections between animal and plant science! Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
94. Climate Journalism, Objectivity, and Noodle Dome Road w/ Brandi Addison
Apr 14 2023
94. Climate Journalism, Objectivity, and Noodle Dome Road w/ Brandi Addison
What's up, Plant People?? In today's episode, my friend Brandi Addison and I talked about her life as a journalist, climate solutions advocate, and environmentalist. Brandi is the regional agriculture and natural resources reporter for the USA TODAY Network's West Texas region, regularly contributing to the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, Amarillo Globe News, Abilene Reporter-News and San Angelo Standard Times. She previously wrote for The Dallas Morning News and has additional bylines in Austin American-Statesman, San Francisco Chronicle, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and Midland Reporter-Telegram, where she began her post-graduate journalism career. She graduated with her bachelor's in journalism from Texas Tech University with a minor in environmental science and, in May, will obtain her M.S. in Professional Writing from NYU, where she specializes in science and environmental writing and received the writing impact award for her graduating class. Brandi is also a journalism instructor at Texas Tech and co-advisor of the College of Media and Communications student newspaper. We had a great conversation about academia and education, good communication, equity in journalism, integrity and objectivity, and so much more! It's a different take on plant science that I know you're really going to enjoy!Brandi's Links:InstagramTwitterWeird West Texas Podcast Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...
92. Parasitic Plants, Arabidopsis Slander, and the Roller Derby Cactus w/ Elizabeth Kelly
Mar 16 2023
92. Parasitic Plants, Arabidopsis Slander, and the Roller Derby Cactus w/ Elizabeth Kelly
What’s up Plant People?! I hope you’re ready for our first guest interview in quite some time, because its a GOOD ONE. Today’s guest, Elizabeth Kelly is a PhD student at Penn State University studying parasitic plants, a brilliant science communicator, an assistant greenhouse manager, an avid roller derby player, and one of my very favorite plant people. Elizabeth (known by her derby name, Swifty, to her friends) and I have been mutuals on TikTok for a couple of years and I’ve wanted to have her on the podcast pretty much ever since. The stars finally aligned and it was well worth the wait. Elizabeth is funny, intelligent, and one of my very favorite science communicators. We talked about research, parasitic plants, botany, non-academic jobs, life on social media, and so much more! I could have talked to Swifty for hours, and I know you’re going to love this episode as much as I did! Make sure to hit up the links below and follow her on TikTok and Instagram!Elizabeth's Links:TikTokInstagram Support the Show.As always, thanks so much for listening! Subscribe, rate, and review Planthropology on your favorite podcast app. It helps the show keep growing and reaching more people! As a bonus, if you review Planthropology on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser and send me a screenshot of it, I'll send you an awesome sticker pack!Planthropology is written, hosted, and produced by Vikram Baliga. Our theme song is "If You Want to Love Me, Babe, by the talented and award-winning composer, Nick Scout. Listen in on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Castbox, or wherever else you like to get your podcasts. Website: www.planthropologypodcast.com Podchaser: www.podchaser.com/Planthropology Facebook: Planthropology Facebook group: Planthropology's Cool Plant People Instagram: @PlanthropologyPod ...