Jumpstart Nature

16 Episodes

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#11 - Critical Mast: The Hidden Cycle of Oak Abundance

2025-10-2321:46

Have you ever noticed that oak trees sometimes have bumper crops of acorns, and sometimes hardly produce a thing? What causes this? And why? Join host Griff Griffith and producer Michael Hawk on an exploration of acorn masting (bumper crops), with a special deep dive into one species that profoundly benefits - the charismatic Acorn Woodpecker. Along with our special guests, Dr. Walter Koenig (both a masting and Acorn Woodpecker researcher), and Dr. Doug Tallamy (author of The Nature of ...

Angry Activist, Rural Landowner: Finding Common Ground for Nature

2025-07-1648:32

Have you ever found it tough to talk about big issues, especially when people already have strong ideas? In the world of nature and climate, we often see communication that feels more like telling people what to do, or how to think. It's easy for us all to dig in our heels, even if we're wrong, and shut down new ideas. Today, we're exploring a different path. -- Griff: I was very radical and had really bad ecological depression because was from the Bay Area and watched all my favorite p...

#10 - Can We Save Cats and Wildlife? The Outdoor Cat Dilemma.

2025-02-0333:58

Cats are independent, lovable, and endlessly entertaining—but with nearly 100 million outdoor cats in the USA alone, they become one of the most devastating forces against wildlife, killing billions of animals each year. At the same time, outdoor cats face harsh, short lives filled with disease, injury, and danger. So how do we balance our love for cats with our responsibility to protect biodiversity? Join host Griff Griffith as we explore the complex reality of outdoor cats with veterinarian...

#9: Invaders in Your Yard: The Hidden Dangers of Invasive Species

2025-01-1331:54

There’s an invasion happening right under our noses—one that’s likely reached your own backyard. You may have even unknowingly played a part in it. This is the spread of invasive plants, animals, and fungi. Once removed from their native habitats, these species reproduce rapidly, disrupting ecosystems, threatening biodiversity, and even endangering our food, health, and recreation. Invasive species are wreaking havoc in every corner of the world, often with our unwitting help. But with knowle...

#8 - Saving A Valley: How Coyote Valley Inspires Conservation

2024-09-2432:08

On a 1983 morning, Steve Jobs scouted Coyote Valley for Apple's new headquarters. Despite his plans, Coyote Valley remains one of the most important undeveloped landscapes near Silicon Valley. This episode tells the story of its conservation through unexpected alliances, resilience, and the invaluable ecosystem services it provides. From critical wildlife connectivity to indigenous cultural significance, discover how perseverance and community action can protect cherished landscapes.&nb...

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