Roots and All - Gardening Podcast

There are no human atoms—only nature's. In this episode, Brigit Anna McNeill joins me to explore what it means to truly come home to the natural world. Drawing on her book and her journey, Brigit reflects on healing through plants, herbalism, folklore, and ancestral connection. We talk about losing and reclaiming connection, the slow unfolding of change, and why nature simply waits for us to listen. Benny's Insect of the Week: The Australian Orange Tip Moth - sponsored by Cerddwr's Herbs go to www.cerddwrshb.com and use the code BUGPODS for a listener's discount. Cerddwr's Herbs on Facebook Links Author — Brigit Anna McNeill Instagram profile (writer, naturalist, teacher, and author of The Wild Within) Author Substack "Into the Woods with Brigit Anna McNeill" Book — The Wild Within: What Plants Taught Me about Life, Recovery and Renewal https://septemberpublishing.org/product/the-wild-within-what-plants-taught-me-about-life-recovery-and-renewal-pb/ Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Brigit you might also enjoy these episodes from the archives: Episode 348: A Forest Fix Olga Evans, co-founder of the Forest Bathing Institute, delves into what forest bathing really means, why nature immersion can be restorative even if you're not in an actual forest, and how simple, mindful practices can help you reconnect with the land—echoing Brigit's reflections on nature, wellbeing and presence. Episode 340: The Nature of Resilience Author Nic Wilson discusses how her relationship with the natural world helped her navigate chronic illness, and how nature shapes our inner landscapes as much as our outer ones—a beautiful complement to Brigit's themes of slow transformation, embodied connection and the wisdom of listening to nature.

I'm joined by landscape architects Andy Harris and Andy Sturgeon to explore the thinking behind the transformation of London's Sloane Street. Together, they tell the story of a project that set out to reimagine this 1km stretch as a green boulevard inspired by the nearby Chelsea Physic Garden — shifting it from a traffic-dominated thoroughfare into a calmer, more human-centred place. We talk about how landscape can knit together retail and residential life, improve wellbeing, and encourage people not just to pass through, but to linger — using planting as environmental infrastructure. From underground constraints and traffic reduction to biodiversity uplift and long-term stewardship, this conversation reveals how thoughtful urban greening can reshape experience, behaviour and connection in the heart of the city and it provides a great companion episode to last year's one on New York's High Line.  Benny's Insect of the Week: The Seven-Spot Ladybird - sponsored by Cerddwr's Herbs go to www.cerddwrshb.com and use the code BUGPODS for a listener's discount. www.cerddwrshb.com Cerddwr's Herbs on Facebook Sloane Street | John McAslan + Partners – official project page outlining the landscape and public realm transformation of this 1 km London boulevard with widened pavements, planting and green infrastructure as part of a masterplan for Cadogan Estates. Andy Harris | John McAslan + Partners – leading the Landscape and Urban Design Studio and responsible for the Sloane Street masterplan and other major public realm projects. Andy Sturgeon Design – the official site for Andy Sturgeon's landscape architecture and garden design practice, responsible for the planting and horticultural design on the Sloane Street project. Please support the podcast on Patreon

I'm joined by Robin Singh, a former tech entrepreneur turned animal rescuer and author, to explore what it really means to live a purposeful life. Our conversation weaves through gardening, homesteading and sustainability, but quickly digs deeper into ideas of happiness, existential crisis and the search for meaning. Drawing on Robin's journey from corporate success to running an animal rescue and growing his own food, the episode reflects on reducing suffering, finding purpose over pleasure, and how small, thoughtful choices can help us live more intentionally—especially at the start of a new year. Robin's book "Happiness Happens" Peepal Farm — official site for the animal rescue and farm founded by Robin Singh Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Robin Singh you might also enjoy these ones from the archives:  Episode 364: Permaculture Planting In this episode Sarah is joined by permaculture designer and author Pippa Chapman as they explore how beauty, productivity and wildlife-friendly principles can all thrive together in the garden. They talk about designing resilient, edible ecosystems and how small, thoughtful changes to our spaces can transform the way we live with nature—echoing Robin's ideas about living intentionally and purposefully with the land. Episode 340: The Nature of Resilience Author Nic Wilson discusses how her deep relationship with the natural world has helped her navigate chronic illness, and how our surroundings shape and reflect our inner resilience. This conversation complements Robin's reflection on suffering, meaning and transformation by highlighting how nature supports us through life's challenges.

This time, I'm the one in the hot seat. In this reflective end-of-year episode, Kelly Baldry takes over as host to ask searching questions about the podcast, changing minds, climate contradictions, and the limits of horticulture as a mental-health cure, alongside a deeper look at my work with Veterans' Growth and what it really means to create safe, supportive spaces in and beyond the garden. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Sandra Schwarz talks about her new book Restore, and shares how her research led her to identify six universal qualities that make landscapes restorative. We talk about the complexities of "owning" nature, who restorative gardens are really for, and how designers can create spaces that meet people where they are. It's a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about greening with intention. Links Restore: How Green Spaces Support Human Restoration  Official Restore Book Page (Humanaturescapes) Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Sandra Schwarz you might also enjoy these ones from the archives:  Episode 348: A Forest Fix Sarah speaks with Olga Evans, co‑founder of the Forest Bathing Institute, about what forest bathing really means, the science behind nature's healing effects, and practical ways to bring its benefits into everyday life, even if you don't have a forest nearby. Episode 314: Nurturing Growth, Inside and Out Sarah talks to Pete Welsh, an RAF Warrant Officer whose journey from military life through mental health challenges highlights the therapeutic power of gardening and community connection, and the parallels between cultivating plants and healing ourselves.

Linden Groves of the Gardens Trust talks about the vital—and surprisingly vulnerable—protections for our historic parks and gardens, and the government's proposal to remove the Trust's statutory consultee role. We unpack what this would mean for our green spaces, why it matters to all of us, and how people can help. Links The Gardens Trust Support the campaign Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Linden Groves you might also enjoy this one from the archives:  Episode 336: Creating an Ark Sarah speaks with landscape designer and rewilding advocate Mary Reynolds about turning gardens and public green spaces into biodiversity-supporting "Arks," exploring how design choices can protect nature in everyday landscapes. Episode 351: Wild Campuses, Wild Futures Sarah talks to Liz Morley about rewilding public and institutional landscapes, discussing how sensitive, ecologically informed design can support nature while still serving community needs.

I'm joined once again by permaculture designer and author Pippa Chapman to explore how beauty, productivity and wildlife-friendly principles can all thrive together in the garden. We dive into her creative approach, the ideas behind her new book, and how small, thoughtful changes can transform any space into a resilient, edible ecosystem. Links Permaculture Planting Designs by Pippa Chapman Pippa on YouTube Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Richard Hayden you might also enjoy this one from the archives:  Episode 185: Food Forests for Plant Lovers Sarah speaks with Pippa Chapman about her book The Plant Lover's Backyard Forest Garden, exploring how to design beautiful, edible, wildlife-friendly forest garden spaces even in small gardens. Episode 296: Regenerative Design Sarah talks to Erik Ohlsen, a permaculturist and regenerative designer, about creating landscapes that repair the environment and follow ecological principles. 

Richard Hayden of New York's High Line talks about how the space has grown and transformed—its evolving plantings, newly added areas, and the thoughtful maintenance practices that have helped it become a beloved, essential part of daily life for both residents and visitors. We trace how this once-industrial rail line has matured into one of the city's most treasured green spaces. Links www.thehighline.org Please support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/rootsandall And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall If you liked this week's episode with Richard Hayden you might also enjoy this one from the archives:  Episode 323: Wildflowers, Community & Urban Nature Sarah speaks with Richard Scott and Polly Moseley of the Scouse Flowerhouse about creating biodiverse, people-centred urban landscapes and how community-driven planting can transform the character and ecological value of city spaces. Link: https://rootsandall.co.uk/podcast/wildflowers-community-urban-nature/ Episode 59: Public Green Spaces with Neil Sinden I talk with Neil Sinden from CPRE about the role of public green spaces in urban life, exploring access, stewardship, and how thoughtful planning can shape meaningful, lived-in landscapes for residents and visitors alike. Link: https://rootsandall.co.uk/podcast/public-green-spaces-with-neil-sinden/

I'm joined by Chris Whitelock, author of Growing Fruit, to explore how modern varieties are reshaping the way we grow fruit at home. We discuss everything from choosing space-saving or container-friendly trees to tackling pests, diseases, and even the challenge of keeping birds off your harvest. Links Growing Fruit: A Practical Guide to Growing Top and Soft Fruit  Chris Whitelock - Learning with Experts  Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

I'm speaking with Karen Hall, Program Director of Ecological Education at the Institute for Applied Ecology, about an inspiring initiative that connects conservation with social rehabilitation. We explore what ecological education involves, the features of the landscape and ecology of the region where Karen works and how changes to funding have affected these conservation in the efforts.  Links Staff profile at IAE: Karen Hall – Institute for Applied Ecology — her bio, role description and contact information.  Curriculum materials she oversaw: Ecological Education Curriculum – Institute for Applied Ecology — downloadable education-units with her listed as Program Director.  Article on the prison-conservation work mentioning her: "When Gardening is a Lifeline and Game-Changer" (in Pacific Horticulture) — includes direct quotes from her about the prison-based conservation programme. Pacific Horticulture A podcast featuring her and the prison conservation programme: Seeds for Change: An Institute for Applied Ecology Podcast — she appears discussing the "Sagebrush in Prisons" / conservation-in-prisons initiative.  Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 333: Designing for Habitat & Biodiversity Ecological designer and waterway whisperer Emmaline Bowman talks about her mission to heal landscapes through nature-led design at her practice Stem Landscape Architecture & Design.  Episode 247: Botanical Education  I speak with Seb Stroud (Leeds University) about the state of botanical education, its implications for biodiversity & climate, and what is being done to revive it. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Nancy Matsumoto discusses her new book Reaping What She Sows, an exploration of the women transforming our broken food system from the ground up. We talk about what an alternative food system really looks like, why women are at the forefront of this movement, and how they're reimagining the way we grow, distribute, and consume food could offer a more just, sustainable, and human-centric future. Links Reaping What She Sows by Nancy Matsumoto  Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 263: Ooooby – Out of Our Own Back YardIn this episode, Pete Russell discusses how the platform Ooooby links customers with small‑scale local growers, promoting a shift away from the large industrial system and toward local, independent food supply chains. Episode 338: Real Organic vs Regenerative FarmingThis episode features Dave Chapman and delves into the broader food‑system issues: corporate consolidation in agriculture, how "regenerative" is being used (or misused) as a buzzword, and how the choice of farming systems impacts equity, transparency and consumer trust. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall  

This episode, Nicolas Salazar of Guardians Worldwide explores the often-overlooked role of rocks in our designed environments. We discuss their carbon storage potential, their deep relationship with plants, and why removing rocks from landscapes may have more impact than we think. It's a conversation that challenges us to see rocks not as static objects, but as vital, living parts of ecological systems. Links www.guardiansworldwide.org Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 41: Natural Stone with Giles Heap In this episode, host Sarah Wilson speaks to Giles Heap of CED Stone about sourcing natural stone ethically, using materials appropriate to location and job, UK local‑stone options, production/process environmental impacts, permeability and drainage issues with hard surfaces and the future of stone products. Episode 222: Nature from the Rubble In this episode, landscape architect Sally Bower discusses her RHS‑bursary‑winning report exploring gravel and recycled aggregate gardens in Essex and London (including Hilldrop, Hyde Hall, Beth Chatto's gravel garden, Langdon Nature Discovery Car Park and the Horniman Museum Grasslands garden) and shares surprising insights for designing with or growing in these media. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Gardens Illustrated editor Stephanie Mahon has curated the magazine's first ever book, The New Beautiful — a celebration of gardens that reflect today's shifting ideas of beauty, sustainability, and design. We discuss what defines a 'Gardens Illustrated' garden, how the featured spaces in the book were chosen, about the evolving role of perennials to the challenges of capturing a garden's true character in a photograph, Stephanie shares insights from her years at the forefront of garden publishing — and offers a glimpse into where garden design might be heading next. Links www.gardensillustrated.com The New Beautiful: Inspiring Gardens for a Resilient Future Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 295: Picture Perfect Gardens with Mark Bolton In this episode, freelance photographer Mark Bolton discusses his approach to capturing gardens and interiors for editorial and commercial clients. He shares insights into creating visually appealing garden spaces and offers tips for gardeners looking to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their own gardens. Episode 354: Modern Planting Design with Andrew Fisher Tomlin Garden designer Andrew Fisher Tomlin explores contemporary planting design, focusing on how modern approaches are shaping the aesthetics and functionality of gardens. He discusses trends, challenges, and the evolving role of planting design in creating beautiful and sustainable garden spaces. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Luke Coleman is the founder of Luke Coleman Gardens, an Edinburgh-based studio known for bold, climate-resilient gardens rooted in story, ecology, and craft. Luke was named RHS Young Designer of the Year 2025, winning Gold, Best Construction, and People's Choice at the Wentworth show. His work draws on landscapes from the Scottish Highlands to the Cape Floral Kingdom, exploring how gardens can tell stories of resilience and culture. We talk about his design principles, what resilience means in a garden, and how gardens might bring cultures together. Links Website: lukecoleman.co.uk Instagram: @lukecolemangardens Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 305: Building on Nature In this one, Sarah speaks with Nick Townsend of NatureScaping about how to integrate wildlife‑friendly features into garden construction and landscape design. They explore how hardscape and structural elements can support or harm biodiversity.  Episode 222: Nature from the Rubble Sarah talks with landscape architect Sally Bower, whose work studies gardens using gravel, recycled aggregate, and other resilient growing media. They delve into designing with "non‑traditional" soils and how these gardens can help wildlife.  Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All:   On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Environmental scientist and author Shannon Jade talks about her work and her book A Song for the Earth — a poetic, hopeful take on the climate crisis. We talk about the themes in the book, our connection to nature, and the importance of finding your voice, whatever form that takes. Links A Song for the Earth on Amazon UK A Song for the Earth on Goodreads A Song for the Earth on Bookshop Shannon Jade online Shannon Jade on Instagram Shannon Jade on TikTok Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 336: Creating an Ark In this episode, Sarah talks with landscape designer and rewilding pioneer Mary Reynolds about her mission to turn gardens into wild sanctuaries. They explore how even small patches of land can play a part in restoring biodiversity. Episode 340: The Nature of Resilience Author Nic Wilson joins Sarah to share how her relationship with the natural world supports her through chronic illness. They discuss the ways nature mirrors our inner worlds and offers space for healing. Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Dr Linda Birkin is the dynamic entomologist and wildlife gardener who stole the show at the recent Talking Plants event with her energetic and informative talk on creating living gardens that welcome all creatures great and small. Find out how she came to champion bugs, and how you can join in with her mission to make gardens a haven for wildlife.  Links www.ljbees.uk Instagram @drljbees Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 244: The Biodiversity Gardener Paul Sterry, ecologist, author and photographer, joins the podcast to discuss how even small gardens can play a huge role in reversing biodiversity loss. He shares insights into practical wildlife gardening, the importance of scrub and edge habitats, and how gardeners can maximise their patch's ecological value using native planting, structural diversity, and a bit of wildness. Link Episode 322: Garden Wildlife Ponds Pete Case from the Freshwater Habitats Trust explores the vital role ponds play in supporting biodiversity. In this episode, he explains how to create and maintain garden ponds for wildlife, the importance of clean water, how pond size and shape affect its ecology, and how even the smallest container of water can benefit invertebrates, amphibians, and more. Link Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Acclaimed garden designer Andrew Fisher Tomlin discusses the craft of planting design, the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the profession, and the evolving role of planting designers today. He also shares insights from his new book, The Modern Professional Planting Designer, which is a novel and interesting look at the processes behind successful planting design. Links www.andrewfishertomlin.com The Modern Professional Planting Designer: Creating Beautiful, Sustainable, Resilient Gardens for the Twenty-First Century Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 94: James Basson of Scape Design James Basson of Scape Design, working from southern France, talks naturalistic planting, use of native species, matrix/grid planting in large landscapes, and how to design resilient planting schemes. Link Episode 205: Gardening on a Gradient Carol Smith, garden designer and lecturer, discusses designing and establishing gardens on sloping sites — site assessment, design, planting, and the challenges and opportunities slopes bring. Link Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall  

Paulette Whitney of Provenance Growers in Tasmania is a grower, cook, and the author of Broccoli and Other Love Stories. We explore the world of seeds, soil, and flavour—from the challenges of gardening in Tasmania's unique climate, to Paulette's favourite herbs, root veg, and go-to meals after a long day in the garden. Along the way, Paulette shares how chefs inspire her to try new varieties and how her twin loves of growing and cooking continue to nourish her life. Links Provenance Growers - A thriving market garden and edible plant nursery in Lutruwita, Tasmania, run by Paulette Whitney. They grow produce, plants, and preserves with organic and regenerative methods.  Also featured on Salamanca Market's site: Provenance Growers at Salamanca Market Broccoli & Other Love Stories – Murdoch Books https://www.murdochbooks.com/browse/book/Paulette-Whitney,-Provenance-Growers-Broccoli-&-Other-Love-Stories-9781922616876 Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 334: Food Farming Revolutionary Joshua Sparkes, a regenerative grower, discusses his experimental, soil-centred practices and deeply respectful approach to the land. It's a meaningful exploration of how observation, experimentation, and a love of soil can shape future-focused, sustainable food systems.  Link Episode 328: Soil, Health and Nutrition This episode features Sam Hamrebtan, a nutritional therapist and sustainable cooking expert. She delves into how growing practices directly influence food quality and nutrition—demonstrating the intimate connection between soil care and what ends up on our plate. Link Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Ali Morse is the Water Policy Manager at The Wildlife Trusts and together we talk the truth about peat: how much is still being extracted, why government promises have fallen short, and the role horticulture plays in the story. We also look ahead to the solutions—both practical and political—that could finally protect these precious habitats. Links The Wildlife Trusts – Main Website Nic Wilson's Peat Free Nurseries List Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 47: Going Peat Free with John WalkerIn this episode, I speak with John Walker, the "Earth Friendly Gardener," about the use of peat in gardening, why it's so harmful, and what's being done to end its use. He reflects on whether we can realistically eradicate peat from horticultural products. Roots and All Episode 144: The State of Horticulture with Matthew ApplebyI chat with Matthew Appleby, Editor of Horticulture Week, about broader industry dynamics—such as Brexit, supply chain changes, and how the push to go peat-free is impacting both gardeners and the horticultural trade. Roots and All Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall

Liz Morley is the force behind @you_dig_gardens and Nottingham College's inspiring Wilder Campuses project, where she's transforming educational spaces into thriving, biodiverse landscapes. We explore her accessible, low-budget approach to rewilding and how it's reconnecting people with nature right where they study and work. Links The project on instagram: @you_dig_gardens Other episodes if you liked this one: Episode 336: Creating an Ark with Mary Reynolds Mary Reynolds—renowned landscape designer, author, and founder of the We Are The Ark rewilding movement—joins Sarah Wilson to explore how even small spaces can be transformed into biodiverse sanctuaries. Her insights into rewilding, from her award-winning Chelsea Flower Show garden to grassroots ecological design, resonate beautifully with the ethos of campus rewilding.  Listen here Episode 106: More Than Weeds with Sophie Leguil Ecologist and biologist Sophie Leguil brings a passionate perspective on public spaces, meadows, wildflower planting, and the value of brownfield sites for urban nature. She challenges conventional horticulture and champions the ecological potential of overlooked weeds—an enriching counterpart to the themes of accessible biodiversity and rewilded campuses.  Listen here Please support the podcast on Patreon And follow Roots and All: On Instagram @rootsandallpod On Facebook @rootsandalluk On LinkedIn @rootsandall