Plant Cunning Podcast

Get The Zodiac Garden Guide.Sign up for Pam Montgomery's free class here: https://plantcunning--wakeuptonature.thrivecart.com/co-creative-partnership/699392e4e6629/In this episode of the Plant Cutting Podcast, Isaac & AC welcome back Gordon White of Rune Soup to discuss his life between his permaculture homestead in Tasmania and travel in South America, including training in Bolivia and Peru. Gordon shares updates on regenerating depleted soil, orchard yields, and plans for a first cider vintage, plus reflections on seasonal living. He describes Paraguay’s everyday herbal culture around tereré and fresh medicinal bundles, and recounts a powerful Amazonian dieta with the master plant teacher Piñón Blanco, including diagnostic Shipibo weavings and a peak mystical encounter that reframed ideas of unity, imagination, and reality. The conversation explores universals vs. local correspondences in magic, discernment amid modern “performative” scenes, and where magical culture may be headed.00:00 Welcome and Guest Tease00:36 Book and Consults Plug01:16 Pam Montgomery Gateway Herbs03:18 Gordon Returns to the Show03:54 Tasmania Farm and Travel Split07:04 Homestead Updates and Harvests08:25 Permaculture Wins and Cider Plan14:17 Why South America Calls17:15 Paraguay Mate and Herb Culture26:30 Dieta and Plant Spirit Rules27:56 Pinon Blanco God Encounter35:11 Weavings as Plant Signatures38:02 Ancestors Tolkien and the Real40:47 Same Truth Different Paths41:26 Ayahuasca Cosmic Medicine42:46 Universals Beyond Language46:21 Directions and Relationality50:21 Instagram and Right Relation53:05 Cunning Traditions Everywhere58:49 Magic After the Golden Age01:02:49 Beginner Discernment Online01:05:54 Cringe Initiation Story01:08:35 Fourth Turning Magic Depth01:11:27 Chaos Magic Reframed01:15:26 Next Wave in Magic01:19:38 Fallen World Cunningcraft01:23:21 Paraguay Lessons Letting Go01:26:00 Book Update and Farewell

Today the Plant Cunning Podcast features farmer, and magician Todd Elliot, author of The Cunning Farmer. In the interview, Elliot describes his path from nature-loving childhood in Philadelphia to homesteading and CSA vegetable farming in Kentucky, his interest in ethnobotany and plants like datura, and key influences in farming and esoteric practice. He explains his eclectic “cunning” approach, combining ancestors/underworld, land and nature spirits, celestial/astrological forces, and angelic magic, plus reiki-based energy healing for crops. We discuss lunar timing versus weather realities, agricultural talismans, offerings to land spirits, animal signs, the state of industrial agriculture, and where to find Elliot’s website and Substack.00:00 Show and Book Updates01:23 Meet Todd Elliot02:48 Todd’s Plant Path Origins05:11 Datura and Entheogenic Plants09:09 Teachers and Influences12:07 Cunning Farmer Identity14:09 Land Spirits Awakening18:28 Sacred Farming and Ritual23:35 Corn Reverence and Monoculture30:58 Worldview and Four Realms33:44 Land Trauma and Ancestors38:46 Reiki for Crops42:47 Reiki for Seedlings43:04 Moon Timing for Planting43:43 Weather Versus Almanac46:48 Eclipses and Weed Killing47:57 Trees and Lunar Mansions48:56 Talisman Success Stories51:40 Offerings to Land Spirits54:34 Animal Signs and Omens57:24 Deer Pests and Cernunnos01:06:24 Advice for Cunning Farmers01:12:21 Protection and Haunted Places01:15:00 Ghosts and Deified Ancestors01:17:58 Where to Find the Book

Today on the show we welcome herbal educator and longtime practitioner Betzy Bancroft—co-founder and teacher at the Vermont Center for Integrative Herbalism, Sage Mountain neighbor, United Plant Savers advisory board member, and author of "The Herbal Pharmacy: The Science and Magic of Preparing and Administering Plant Medicine". We discuss distilling decades of teaching into a foundational medicine-making book designed for different learning styles. She shares her path from New Jersey to studying with David Winston, working at Herbalist & Alchemist, and being inspired by mentors including Rosemary Gladstar and William LeSassier. Betsy explains VCIH’s tuition-supported sliding-scale clinic and Zoom-based student mentoring with SOAP notes, safety, and formulation review, then covers formulation principles (triangle theory), taste in teas, extraction decisions (surface area, time, heat, solvent, agitation), vinegar/oxymels and constituent solubility, polyphenols and gene expression, subtle influences and intention in medicine making, and current plant allies like mushrooms, chaga, reishi, and self-heal, plus upcoming events and where to find her book.00:00 Meet Betzy Bancroft01:05 New Book Overview02:22 Teaching Superpowers04:03 How Betzy Learns06:53 Finding Herbalism08:47 Mentors and Lineage10:21 Founding VCIH Clinic13:49 Clinic Mentoring Process18:13 Formulation Triangle Theory21:59 Vinegar and Oxymels27:42 Polyphenols Flip Genes31:42 Extraction Tips Solubility35:11 Book Marketing And Website37:03 Subtle Energies In Medicine39:47 Astrology And Intention41:47 Tea Intention Experiments47:07 Learning Through Plant Time50:06 Mushroom Remedies And Chaga55:14 Self Heal Plant Profile01:00:28 Classes Events And Wrap Up

It's the spring 2026 “astrological New Year” episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, with hosts AC and Isaac Hill, with resident forecaster, ZamboniFunk. Isaac shares his upcoming astrological gardening book The Zodiac Garden Guide (out April 4) and reading offerings—then review 2025 and the eclipse window’s intensity, including the Iran war escalation. Using the Aries ingress chart, we discuss Mercury retrograde stationing direct in Pisces conjunct the North Node and Mars, Sun conjunct Neptune and Saturn in Aries, and what this suggests about confused but forceful narratives, pro-war escalation, and trouble for the U.S. executive branch. We emphasize skepticism, asking better questions, managing information overload, and prioritizing nourishment, rest, and grounding practices like gardening. We also preview Uranus moving into Gemini as an acceleration of tech and AI, arguing for learning new “languages” while drawing on enduring ancient wisdom and choosing fewer battles.00:00 Spring Equinox Welcome00:38 Zodiac Garden Guide Update01:38 Readings And Courses02:38 Which Way To Wisdom04:05 Springtime Setting The Scene04:44 Looking Back On 202507:56 Eclipses And World Events10:30 Astrology For Regular People17:32 2026 Ingress Big Themes17:58 Mercury Retrograde Narrative Fog24:50 Chart Walkthrough Key Placements30:08 Tyranny Escalation And Control36:00 Jupiter Economy And Religiosity43:01 Unplug Or Engage Strategically46:49 Medicine For The Moment47:49 Herbs For Burnout49:35 Rest And Spirit Care51:46 Acceleration And Uranus54:26 Gardening As Medicine57:57 Mercury Pisces Paradox01:02:45 Unplugging From Opinions01:08:42 Uranus Gemini Skills01:10:38 Printing Press AI Lesson01:23:52 Old Versus Ancient01:29:13 Pick Your Battles

In this episode, AC & Isaac welcome natural healing practitioner and teacher Peter Jackson-Main to discuss Natural Healing, his background in the Dr. John Christopher lineage, founding The Natural Center in the UK, and his clinical approach using structured case-taking alongside tongue and pulse diagnosis and iridology. They focus on what detoxification is, why it matters in a toxic environment, and how he supports organ-by-organ elimination (bowel, kidney, liver, lymph), including a gentler polarity-based liver flush using apple juice, lemon, garlic, ginger, olive oil, and a dandelion-root detox tea, plus seasonal timing in spring and autumn. Peter contrasts herbs with supplements, emphasizes patient commitment in chronic illness, and shares views on fasting as spiritual and physical medicine. He previews his forthcoming book The Medicine of Plants on ecology, exchange with plants, and plant intelligence, and shares favorite allies like astragalus, burdock, nettle, artemisia, and horsetail.00:00 Podcast Welcome00:34 Guest Intro and Announcements03:01 Defining Natural Healing04:29 Origin Story and Training08:33 Building the Natural Centre10:25 Herbal Preparations and Teas12:51 Clinical Intake and Intuition20:56 Detox Basics and Rationale23:58 Organ by Organ Detox Strategy28:41 Liver Flush Protocol34:55 Seasonal Detox and Herb Choices36:16 Warming Detox Tea37:25 Fasting Basics and Benefits40:17 Fasting as Whole-Being Practice41:17 Handling Chronic Illness Cases46:01 Eclectic Herbal Lineage47:50 Rethinking Research and Reality51:45 Supplements Versus Living Herbs55:00 Plant Allies and Local Substitutes58:47 New Book The Medicine of Plants01:04:44 Closing and Where to Find Him

Find out all about Olga and her Greece trips at Smugtown MushroomsAC and Isaac welcome returning guest Olga Tzogas of Smugtown Mushrooms, calling in from California where she’s teaching frequent classes, connecting with mushroom and herbal communities, and harvesting no-spray citrus for an east-coast fruit share. They discuss shifts in mushroom education interest, regional and international mushroom diversity tied to trees and rainfall, and favorite Greece finds like shaggy parasols and almond-scented wild Agaricus, plus simple grilling methods with olive oil, oregano, and lemon. Olga explains truffles—trees they associate with, how quickly they can be found with trained dogs, why prices are high, preservation challenges, and ways to use them. Olga shares details on her Greece trips in May and October (including truffle hunting, medicine making, hydrosols, dyes, and food), early bird timing, and mentions the upcoming New Moon Mycology Summit in September.00:00 Podcast Welcome00:33 Guest Intro and Teasers01:50 Greece Trip Announcement03:33 Olga in California06:55 Teaching on the Road08:27 Mushroom Trend Talk10:09 Foraging Origins and Fungi Magic11:48 California Mushroom Season14:00 Mushrooms Around the World18:49 Greece Mushroom Favorites22:23 Citrus Share and Bitters25:51 Peels Oxymels and Aronia31:04 Sea Buckthorn and Ojas36:16 Thorns Hawthorn and Cornelian Cherry37:52 Wild Fruit and Wood38:47 Truffles and Host Trees39:46 Cultivating Truffles Fast41:30 Training Truffle Dogs43:24 Truffle Prices and Shelf Life44:43 Preserving Truffle Aroma47:09 Cooking With Truffles50:13 Greece Foraging Trips56:28 Trip Dates and Lodging01:00:15 Workshops and Slow Travel01:07:20 Why Greece Feels Free01:12:28 New Moon Summit Update01:16:35 Early Bird and Giving Back01:18:39 Final Thanks and Farewell

Find Dana at The Druid's Garden: Spirit Journeys in Healing the Land, Permaculture, Sustainable Living, and Creative ArtsFind out more about the Plant Cunning Conference at Plant Cunning Conference – Save the date – July 24-26, 2026Book a Vedic astrology reading with Isaac by emailing him at AskIsaacHill@gmail.comAC and Isaac welcome back Dana O’Driscoll—Grand Archdruid of Ancient Order of Druids in America, co-director and founder of the Pennsylvania School of Herbalism, author, artist, and creator of the Druid’s Garden blog—to discuss her new book, "Eco Spirituality in the 21st Century," co-authored with Nate Summers. They talk about the book as a practical roadmap for difficult times, rooted in nature spirituality and community, and built around seven themes: reconnection, respect, rewilding, regeneration, resilience, re-enchantment, and revisioning. Dana explains how she and Nate collaborated (long conversations to develop the framework, then dividing chapters by strengths), how the book uses a Druid-inspired structure (Bard/ovate/druid as community/creative practice, nature-based practice, and cosmology/magical theory), and why storytelling and visioning are central as acts of magic that shape reality. The conversation explores animism and agency in the natural world, the role of gratitude and offerings in reciprocal relationships with land and plants, the need to pair magical work with practical action, and the importance of rebuilding local, in-person community through shared meals, fires, mutual aid, and tool shares as larger systems strain. Dana also shares details on upcoming events (Plant Cunning Conference July 24–26 in central New York; Hawthorn Botanical Gathering in June) and where to find her work, including the book via major booksellers, her site (thedruidsgarden.com), and the Pennsylvania School of Herbalism (paherbschool.com).01:10 Conference and Support Updates02:32 Seasonal Check In03:20 Why This Book Now08:01 Co Writing the Book11:34 Meeting Nate and Shared Druidry15:17 Seven Rs Framework22:18 Storytelling as Magic28:19 Agency Action and Enchantment33:52 Stories Shape Reality34:13 Deprogramming Cultural Beliefs35:28 Seven Rs Roadmap38:44 Enchantment Without Overload42:25 Respect Through Animism44:29 Offerings and Deep Gratitude52:15 Reindigenizing Daily Life54:09 Rebuilding Local Community59:01 Herb School and Book Links01:02:43 Final Thanks and Wrap

AC and Isaac welcome John Michael Greer back to the Plant Cunning Podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on mundane astrology and the Saturn–Neptune conjunction at 0° Aries on February 20. Greer explains mundane astrology as astrology applied to world events, emphasizing traditional tools like ingress charts for solstices and equinoxes, eclipse charts, and great conjunctions, and describing astrology as an empirical craft built from long historical observation. The episode explores why 0° Aries functions as a zodiac “reset button,” why Saturn (form, limits, structure) combining with Neptune (dissolution, unity, imagination, delusion) suggests major shifts. They discuss competing ways of timing the Age of Aquarius, including the 2020 Jupiter–Saturn conjunction in Aquarius as a possible “dawn” marker, and critique utopian 1960s portrayals of Aquarius, noting traditional rulership by Saturn and the difficult, disruptive qualities associated with Uranus (and Rahu as co-ruler in Vedic astrology). Greer ties Uranus-in-Gemini cycles to U.S. history and “elite replacement” periods, framing current politics as another transition that may include bureaucratic contraction and social conflict without necessarily implying “the end of everything.” Additional themes include long-term decline versus sudden collapse, climate volatility, ice-sheet destabilization, karmic causality as “action and consequence” rather than retribution, and esoteric ideas like Dion Fortune’s “initiation of the nadir” as a potential collective turning point amid peak global population. 02:53 Mundane Astrology101: The Oldest Branch of Astrology & How It Works04:26 Tools of Mundane Astrology: Ingresses, Eclipses, and Great Conjunctions06:29 Why 0° Aries Matters: The Zodiac ‘Reset Button’08:27 Saturn Meets Neptune: Form vs Dissolution—and Why This One’s Unprecedented11:50 Axial Age Echoes: Religion, Philosophy, and What Might Change Next15:50 Age of Aquarius: Uranus Energy, Myths of Utopia, and Saturn’s Reality Check21:07 Tech, AI, and Civilizational Fragility26:25 When Did the Age of Aquarius Begin?5:26 Wheels Within Wheels: Stacking Cycles and What We’ll Notice in Our Lifetimes36:42 Historical Parallel: Early Democracy, and How Big Shifts Start Small37:56 Athens’ Democratic Experiment & the Rise of a Cultural Powerhouse38:36 Thales and the Birth of Philosophy: Reason Replaces Myth39:34 Where the Next Breakthrough Comes From: Fringe Ideas That ‘Work’41:07 Screens, AI, and a Return to Being Human (in a New Way)42:46 The Star of Bethlehem, Magi as Magicians, and Modern ‘Messiah’ Speculation44:37 Aquarius vs Pisces: Why We Can’t Imagine a Truly New Age45:11 Reading Dead People: Ancient Epics as a Portal to Other Mindsets46:20 Kali Yuga vs Satya Yuga: Are We in the Spiritual Winter?48:43 26,000-Year Cycles, Ancient Dread, and ‘This Is as Bad as It Gets’52:33 Saturn’s Lesson: Endure, Do Your Dharma, and Get to Work54:34 Initiation of the Nadir: Hitting Rock Bottom and Rounding the Buoy58:48 Uranus in Gemini & America’s Elite Replacement Cycles (Revolution–Civil War–WWII)01:05:43 Mundane Astrology Methods: Updating Planetary Meanings for the Modern World01:09:06 Mars vs Mercury Masculinity—and What a Future Dark Age Might Look Like01:13:20 Post-Collapse Cities in ‘Star’s Reach’: A Byzantine-Style Future01:14:06 What Determines the Shape of a Dark Age? Printing, Farming, and Resilient Tech01:15:33 Amish & Appropriate Tech: Keeping Urban Life Alive After Collapse01:18:30 Collapse as Slow ‘Ragged Decline’: Gas Prices, Frogs, and the Long Slide01:21:48 Punctuated Shocks: Lockdowns, 9/11, and Climate Tipping Points01:24:05 Astrology as a Tactical Tool: Daily Transits, Timing, and Better Decisions01:29:29 Intuition, Past Lives, and Skill Carryover: From Mozart to Tarot01:33:33 Karma Explained: Action, Consequences, and What Charts Can Reveal01:37:03 Remedies & Magic: Planetary Charity, Talismans, and Natal Chart Mandalas

In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC and Isaac Hill are joined by Amelia South, known as "the No BS Herbalist." Amelia shares her journey into the world of plants and natural healing, inspired by the birth of her daughter and her early experiences with herbs. She delves into her practical approach to herbalism, emphasizing the importance of understanding the root causes of health issues, rather than just addressing symptoms with herbs. Amelia introduces her latest book, 'Think Like an Herbalist,' a practical guide aimed at those looking to deepen their understanding of herbalism and natural health practices without becoming professional herbalists. The conversation also touches on her upcoming book focused on mental health and subconscious healing, and the importance of mental wellbeing for both practitioners and clients. Tune in for a rich discussion on plant wisdom, personal healing journeys, and the intersection of physical, mental, and emotional health.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:34 Meet Amelia South: The No BS Herbalist03:38 Amelia's Journey into Herbalism06:45 Teaching and Foraging Adventures12:24 Amelia's Cookbook and Bone Broth Tips33:10 Healing the Gut: Cabbage and Beyond40:10 Understanding the Root of Addiction41:23 The Role of the Subconscious Mind in Healing43:28 Client Consultations and Setting Boundaries44:29 The Importance of Willingness in Healing47:09 Addressing Deep-Seated Beliefs49:18 The Challenge of Helping Others01:07:28 Balancing Personal and Professional Life01:14:19 Streamlining Communication and Services01:17:48 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

In this episode, co-hosts Isaac and AC Hill sit down with Jamie Paul Lamb, a distinguished astrologer, magician, and author. Jamie dives deep into his new book, 'The Astrological Goetia,' which examines the ancient method of dividing the zodiac into five-degree sections known as the Quinaries. Together, they explore how this system brings a fascinating blend of traditional astrology and astrological magic to the forefront. Discover the historical and mystical roots of the Quinaria, delve into the attributes of angelic and demonic spirits associated with these divisions, and uncover the intricacies of chart delineation using this lesser-known technique. Whether you're an astrology enthusiast or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers unique insights into the intersection of astrology, magic, and the platonic worldview. 00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:34 Guest Introduction: Jamie Paul Lamb01:48 Astrological Insights and Book Discussion04:34 Journey into Astrology and Magic11:09 Historical Figures and Esoteric Traditions17:20 Divisional Charts and Spiritual Entities, Devatas, Angels and Demons41:25 Astrological Rectifyication Techniques41:45 Exploring Profections and Dashas, and other Timing Techniques45:34 Western vs. Vedic Astrology Approaches56:33 Astrological Remediation and Talismans01:03:41 Philosophical Insights and Conclusion

In this episode, hosts AC and Isaac Hill welcome Brigit Anna McNeil. Bridget, a writer, eco psychotherapist, and herbalist, shares insights from her newly released book 'The Wild Within.' We explore her personal journey influenced by two incredible grandmothers, the importance of seasonal cycles, and the significance of telling and retelling stories that connect us back to nature. Additionally, Bridget discusses her beliefs on rewilding and how creative practices and rituals can be tools for personal transformation. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that bridges the gap between the natural world and our inner selves.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:44 Brigit's Journey to Herbalism06:45 Influential Teachers and Mentors07:55 The Concept of 'The Wild Within'09:25 Cultural Perceptions of Wildness18:46 Rewilding and Connection to Nature27:31 Seasonal Cycles and Beginnings37:24 Rituals and Personal Growth40:03 Winter Herbal Allies42:08 The Enigmatic Yew Tree46:15 Eco-Psychotherapy Explained50:48 The Healing Power of Creativity01:03:05 Imagination and Inner Child01:09:22 Imbolc Traditions and Reflections01:11:17 Conclusion

In this episode, we welcome Akiva Silver of Twisted Tree Farm. Our discussion wanders into the creation of lotus ponds, the selective use of nitrogen-fixing plants, and the importance of "hardening off" in the North. Akiva shares his journey from wilderness survival enthusiast to professional nurseryman, emphasizing the importance of having a 'conversation with the land.' He also touches on the philosophy behind his work, the benefits of diverse plantings, and the practicalities of building DIY ponds. Akiva's insightful perspective on managing land and fostering biodiversity is a must-listen for anyone interested in sustainable farming practices.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast01:06 Upcoming Events and Announcements02:00 Akiva Silver's Journey and Philosophy03:12 The Art of Working with Land07:27 Planting Strategies and Observations15:34 Exploring Akiva's Farm and Plant Varieties22:11 Challenges and Learnings in Permaculture30:21 Balancing Experiments and Resilient Plants31:01 The Resilience and Early Production of Hazelnuts31:36 Chestnuts: A Versatile and Historical Nut35:36 Managing Abundance and Wildlife on the Farm37:59 Building and Maintaining Ponds Yourself39:53 The Benefits of Ponds for Wildlife and Recreation41:20 Specializing Ponds for Different Uses44:12 Renting Equipment and DIY Pond Construction48:38 The Importance of Taking Action and Learning by Doing49:47 Current Projects and Inspirations50:37 Books and Philosophies on Nature and Life53:14 Reflections on Modern Challenges and Resilience55:37 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode we are joined by the esteemed astrologer, teacher, and author, Stormie Grace. We discuss everything from Stormie's personal journey into astrology at a young age, her career transition from radio to YouTube, and her unique approach to reading charts. Stormie elaborates on how she incorporates the natal and progressed lunar phases, the significance of the nodal story, and the intricate dance of the sun and the moon to guide her astrological readings. Stormie also talks about the challenges and opportunities in the YouTube astrology space, and the process and insights behind her new book on aspects. Tune in to hear Stormie's inspiring story and her wisdom on growing through life's cosmic cycles.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Stormie Grace: Astrologer and Teacher01:32 Stormie's Journey into Astrology04:01 The Saturn Return: A Turning Point11:31 Stormie's Transition to YouTube20:14 Astrology Techniques and Insights22:34 Understanding Moon Phases in Astrology31:02 Introduction to Nodes in Astrology31:41 Understanding the South Node32:17 Balancing the North and South Nodes34:44 Nodes in Different Signs and Degrees37:14 The Role of Houses and Planets39:16 Lunar Phases and Life Seasons43:37 Winter Seasons and Personal Growth47:16 New Book on Aspects in Astrology47:32 Astrology as a Language49:38 Practical Applications of Aspects53:04 Writing the Book and Future Research58:30 Conclusion and Where to Find More

In this episode, hosts AC and Isaac Hill sit down with herbalist Kyle Denton. Kyle shares his journey from a bike accident to becoming an herbalist and teacher, diving deep into his passion for astrological herbalism and biofield tuning. Discover the story behind Kyle's herb shop, Tippecanoe Herbs, and its evolution from a farmer's market stall to a comprehensive healing space with a kitchen, cafe, and herbal clinic. Kyle also explains his unique approach to bio terrain vitalism and holistic health, incorporating the elements of nature with modern herbal practice. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in plant-based healing, natural medicine, and the intricate relationships between plants, astrology, and our biofields.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Kyle Denton: Herbalist and Teacher01:14 The Journey of Tippecanoe Herbs01:58 Herbal Shop and Community Space04:32 The Connection Between Alcohol and Herbs06:15 Kyle's Path to Herbalism11:14 Ayurveda and Western Herbalism14:13 Understanding Bio Terrain Vitalism20:09 Exploring Biofield Tuning31:05 The Power of Naming Plants31:42 Biofield Tuning Techniques33:28 Integrating Healing with Herbs40:44 Astrology and Herbalism42:38 Aromatic Astrology and Incense Making49:21 The Role of Myths in Healing01:02:29 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

Today we are joined once more by the renowned herbalist and author Robert Dale Rogers. Known for his extensive research on mushrooms and lichens, Robert is here to discuss the fascinating world of ferns and his latest book, 'The Fern Pharmacy.' We explore the medicinal wonders of ferns, discover their unique lifecycles, and learn some surprising historical and practical uses. Robert shares insights from his journey and research, including the importance of proper preparation for medicinal efficacy and his personal experiences with various fern species. Whether you're an herbalist looking to expand your knowledge or just curious about the hidden potentials of these ancient plants, this episode offers a wealth of information. Stay tuned as Robert also teases his upcoming works on mosses and medicinal cacti. 00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Welcoming Robert Dale Rogers01:41 Researching the Fern Pharmacy03:56 Ferns in History and Culture06:30 Medicinal and Edible Ferns17:02 Practical Uses of Ferns20:44 Ferns in Traditional Medicine23:06 Decoctions and Infusions: Using Ferns for Health23:46 Traditional Uses of Ferns in Indigenous Medicine25:15 Favorite Ferns and Their Medicinal Benefits28:24 Ferns in Global Practices and Personal Anecdotes34:37 Silica and Bone Health: The Role of Ferns36:26 Upcoming Projects and Future Research

It's the 2026 astro forecast focusing on the winter quarter with guest astrologer Zamboni Funk! Key topics include the Neptune and Saturn conjunction at zero degrees Aries, its historical significance and potential spiritual implications, and major planetary movements such as the pile-up in Capricorn, Uranus entering Gemini, and Mars/Uranus conjunction. We also explores broader themes of changing religious paradigms, the influence of technological advancements, and strategic personal and global adaptability in an uncertain year ahead. Zamboni Funk also highlights major astrological events and provides practical advice for leveraging the energies of 2026.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:34 Astro Forecast for 2026: Key Highlights01:48 Special Offer on Vedic Astrology Readings02:27 Thank You to Our Listeners02:47 Astro Forecast with Zamboni Funk: Winter Quarter Insights03:45 Capricorn Season: Ambition and Challenges06:39 Jupiter Retrograde and Capricorn Pile-Up09:04 Planning and Strategy During Retrogrades17:53 Power Plays and Deception in Aquarius21:22 Saturn and Neptune Conjunction: Historical Significance32:03 Exploring Metaphors and Aphorisms33:57 Astrological Insights: Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter35:14 Practical Applications of Aphorisms35:55 Eclipses and Their Implications44:51 Uranus in Gemini: A Global Shift49:40 Adapting to a Changing World57:24 Astrological Events and Personal Growth

Today we host herbalist, mycologist, and alchemist Jason Scott from Feral Fungi. In this episode, Jason shares his journey into the world of fungi, hermetic alchemy, and ethobotanical studies. We explore the complexities of the mushroom supplement industry, planetary correspondences of mushrooms, and the art of making potent, intentional mushroom medicines. Jason also reveals his favorite methods for double extraction and discusses the importance of supporting local economies. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into the mysteries of nature and the plant world!00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast01:59 Guest Introduction: Jason Scott of Feral Fungi02:51 Jason Scott's Journey into Mycology and Alchemy08:21 The Influence of Teachers and Mentors17:22 Doctrine of Signatures and Planetary Correspondences25:22 The Art and Science of Spagyric Medicine42:23 Traditional Wisdom and Modern Society42:57 Intentional Product Creation43:14 Complexities of Life and Medicine44:12 Scaling a Company with Integrity46:14 Medicine Making Techniques47:16 Soxhlet Extractor Explained49:46 Alcohol and Water Extraction Methods55:36 Challenges in Mushroom Industry01:01:54 Consumer Awareness and Quality01:08:41 Local Sourcing and Revolutionizing Herbal Medicine01:19:36 Microbial Concerns in Smoothies01:20:21 Mushroom Processing for Effectiveness01:21:20 Absorption Differences: Powders vs. Tinctures01:22:44 Challenges in Mushroom Research01:24:34 Chinese Herbalism and Mushroom Medicine01:28:39 Astrological Correspondences of Mushrooms01:39:04 Planetary Associations of Specific Mushrooms01:46:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Today on the Plant Cunning Podcast, we have Alexis J. Cunningfolk, author, educator, and herbalist, on the show. Alexis shares their journey into herbalism, beginning with a profound connection to a koala at a young age and progressing through various life experiences and influential teachers. We delve into Alexis' new book, 'The Apothecary of Belonging,' which explores seasonal rituals and practical herbalism, and emphasizes the inherent sense of belonging. From the importance of storytelling in herbalism to practical tips and cherished plant allies for the winter season, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. Tune in to learn about the deep relationships between people, plants, and the land they live on.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Alexis J Cunningfolk: Author, Educator, and Herbalist01:07 Alexis' Journey to the Plant Path02:01 The Influence of Family and Early Experiences02:56 Discovering Herbalism and Spiritual Practices05:07 College Years and Further Exploration11:34 The Role of Storytelling in Herbalism15:26 Teachers and Mentors in Herbalism22:39 Writing 'The Apothecary of Belonging'28:45 Commodification of Herbalism vs. Relationship with Nature29:59 The Importance of Belonging and Connection30:25 Personal Experiences and Community Work32:52 Healing and Activism36:00 Winter Herbal Practices and Plant Allies46:19 Exploring Plant Allies and Their Benefits49:59 Creating Oracle Maps of Belonging58:17 Conclusion and Resources

Today we welcome herbalist and founder of Wooden Spoon Herbs, Lauren Haynes. You can find Wooden Spoon Herbs at: https://woodenspoonherbs.com/We delve into Lauren’s journey into herbalism, starting from her early fascination with plants to her formal studies with herbal mentors. Lauren shares insights into her product development, including her acclaimed magnesium blue lemonade and other herbal remedies, as well as her approach to accessibility and education in herbalism. The discussion also covers the history and regulations of herbal medicine, business practicalities for herbal entrepreneurs, and Lauren’s favorite plants and future endeavors.00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast00:31 Meet Lauren Haynes: Herbalist and Educator01:27 Lauren's Journey into Herbalism03:27 Early Influences and Mentors05:15 From Passion Project to Business08:30 Wooden Spoon Herbs: Vision and Products14:00 Magnesium: The Essential Mineral19:44 Teaching and Herbal Business Insights22:04 Historical Context of Herbal Medicine25:30 The Flexner Report and Its Impact on Medical Schools26:40 The Pure Food and Drug Act of 190627:57 The Rise and Regulation of Herbal Medicine28:25 Understanding the DSHEA Act and Its Implications31:54 Starting and Protecting Your Herbal Business37:01 Scaling and Systematizing Your Herbal Business41:21 Pricing Strategies and Market Relationships48:17 Favorite Plants and Final Thoughts

You can find out all about Robin Rose's new course that launches December 1st at https://www.robinrosebennett.com/.Today Isaac and AC welcome back the renowned herbalist, author, and green witch, Robin Rose Bennett for an insightful and heartwarming conversation that delves into the vital role of herbalists during these tumultuous times. Robin shares her wisdom on how herbs help connect us to nature, support our communities, and guide us through personal transformation. Discover Robin's children's book, 'The Young Green Witch's Guide to Plant Magic,' designed to inspire the younger generation to explore the wonders of herbalism. Plus, learn about meaningful rituals with plantain and other plants, and the importance of bridging human connection through nature's gifts. This episode is filled with stories, wisdom, and practical advice for anyone looking to deepen their relationship with plants and strengthen their role in the web of life. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe! Share this episode with friends and leave us a five-star review if you enjoyed it. 🌿 00:00 Introduction and Welcome02:03 Guest Introduction: Robin Rose Bennett02:55 The Role of Herbalists in Today's World05:26 Personal Stories and Plant Connections17:55 Community and Connection Among Herbalists22:02 Urban Foraging and Gardening27:26 Astrology and Personal Insights29:30 The Importance of Wholeness31:19 Embracing All Parts of Ourselves32:11 Involving Younger Generations32:57 Introducing the Children's Book35:10 Highlighting Plant Magic37:04 The Spirit and Physical Connection of Plants41:50 Respecting and Learning from Plants46:40 Upcoming Projects and Courses51:44 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans