Best Tiny Footprint Podcasts (2024)

1
A Serendipitous Conversation with a Seabird Biologist 27:16

27d ago27:16

27:16

Michael is currently off on another ocean adventure collaborating again with Memorial University. Through this project he had the opportunity to interview accomplished Seabird biologist Holly Hogan, discussing her book Message in a Bottle: Ocean Dispatches from a Seabird Biologist. This never-before-heard interview was so good, that Michael just ha…

1
Ants in the Garden: Harmful or Beneficial? 15:50

30d ago15:50

15:50

We don't want them in the house, but can we trust ants around our plants? Do we need to step in and do something, or might they be beneficial in the garden? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: 2024 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)By Empress of Dirt

1
Ants in the Garden: Harmful or Beneficial? 15:50

6d ago15:50

15:50

We don't want them in the house, but can we trust ants around our plants? Do we need to step in and do something, or might they be beneficial in the garden? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: 2024 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)By Empress of Dirt

1
Vermicomposting -- It's Different From Regular Composting 12:41

3M ago12:41

12:41

An overview of vermicomposting -- worm composting. It provides very similar benefits to the garden as composting, but can be done indoors and stay active year-round, even in colder areas. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How to Save Seeds: Collecting Seeds From Your Garden PlantsBy Empress of Dirt

1
Vermicomposting -- It's Different From Regular Composting 12:41

3M ago12:41

12:41

An overview of vermicomposting -- worm composting. It provides very similar benefits to the garden as composting, but can be done indoors and stay active year-round, even in colder areas. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How to Save Seeds: Collecting Seeds From Your Garden PlantsBy Empress of Dirt

1
How Gardeners Came to Love Earthworms -- Soil's Tiny Engineers 13:44

3M ago13:44

13:44

Over the last 200 years, earthworms have gone from being despised by gardeners to being loved as signs of healthy soil. Many gardeners now even raise worms in their houses to create vermicompost. But it's not all rosy. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Simple Trick to Save the Best Seeds from Your GardenBy Empress of Dirt

1
How Gardeners Came to Love Earthworms -- Soil's Tiny Engineers 13:44

3M ago13:44

13:44

Over the last 200 years, earthworms have gone from being despised by gardeners to being loved as signs of healthy soil. Many gardeners now even raise worms in their houses to create vermicompost. But it's not all rosy. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Simple Trick to Save the Best Seeds from Your GardenBy Empress of Dirt

1
Are Today's Fruits and Vegetables Less Nutritious? 11:27

4M ago11:27

11:27

Are today's fruits and vegetables -- the ones you buy at the store -- less nutritious than they used to be? You hear that a lot, but you'll also hear that it's a myth. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Outdoor Plant Tags & Markers that Last a Lifetime (Really)By Empress of Dirt

1
Are Today's Fruits and Vegetables Less Nutritious? 11:27

4M ago11:27

11:27

Are today's fruits and vegetables -- the ones you buy at the store -- less nutritious than they used to be? You hear that a lot, but you'll also hear that it's a myth. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Outdoor Plant Tags & Markers that Last a Lifetime (Really)By Empress of Dirt

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 1: The Basics 37:34

5M ago37:34

37:34

How is the Oldman watershed unique, why it is ecologically important, and how has our climate been changing in Alberta over the decades? In this episode, Michael explores some of the basics around the Oldman watershed, water security and climate adaptation. Featured Guests: Shannon Frank - Executive Director: Oldman Watershed Council Stefan Kienzle…

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 2: Riparian Areas & Lakes 41:39

5M ago41:39

41:39

What is a riparian area and what role does it play in climate adaptation? How are lakes impacted by climate change? In this episode, Michael explores why riparian areas and lakes are important to the Oldman watershed. Featured Guests: Norine Ambrose - Executive Director: Cows & Fish Bradley Peter - Executive Director: Alberta Lake Management Societ…

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 3: Land Management & Fish 41:25

5M ago41:25

41:25

What role does land management play in maintaining a healthy watershed? How are fish species affected by a changing climate and our various land uses? In this episode, Michael has some conversations about conservation in the Oldman watershed. Featured Guests: Philip Meintzer & Devon Earl - Conservation Specialists: Alberta Wilderness Association Lo…

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 4: Business Owners 34:38

5M ago34:38

34:38

How are businesses affected by concerns around water security in the Oldman Watershed? In this episode, Michael talks with three business owners who rely on water for their livelihood. He explores why water matters to them and how they plan to adapt to a changing climate. Featured Guests: Jim Lynch-Staunton - Rancher: Antelope Butte Ranch Dwight Pe…

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 5: Looking Back 41:08

5M ago41:08

41:08

How has the Oldman watershed been developed over the centuries and were there any struggles along the way? In this episode, Michael explores the history of development in the Oldman watershed, including its significance to the Blackfoot people and its importance to settler communities. He also learns about the controversy around the construction of…

1
The Oldman Watershed Part 6: Looking Forward 29:58

5M ago29:58

29:58

How is the City of Lethbridge planning to adapt to water security concerns in our changing climate and what can you do to have an impact? In this episode, Michael explores the future of water and climate adaptation in Lethbridge. He gets a tour of the water treatment plant, learns about the city’s climate adaptation strategy and gets some advice fr…

1
The Oldman Watershed Trailer 2:18

5M ago2:18

2:18

Michael learns all about the Oldman watershed, exploring how communities in Southern Alberta are impacted by concerns around water security related to climate change, and how they might adapt.By Michael Bartz

1
The Purple Tomato: The First GMO Garden Seed 13:17

6M ago13:17

13:17

We always used to be able to say that there were no GMO garden seeds. That's still true in most of the world but, in the U.S., gardeners can now buy seeds for the genetically engineered, high-antioxidant Purple Tomato. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: What to Know Before Reusing Old Potting MixBy Empress of Dirt

1
The Purple Tomato: The First GMO Garden Seed 13:17

6M ago13:17

13:17

We always used to be able to say that there were no GMO garden seeds. That's still true in most of the world but, in the U.S., gardeners can now buy seeds for the genetically engineered, high-antioxidant Purple Tomato. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: What to Know Before Reusing Old Potting MixBy Empress of Dirt

1
Does Garden-Grown Produce Have A High Carbon Footprint? 14:52

7M ago14:52

14:52

A recent study claimed that urban-grown fruits and vegetables had a carbon footprint six times that of those from conventional farms. Rants ensued. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Monarch Butterflies: How Gardeners Can Truly HelpBy Empress of Dirt

1
Does Garden-Grown Produce Have A High Carbon Footprint? 14:52

7M ago14:52

14:52

A recent study claimed that urban-grown fruits and vegetables had a carbon footprint six times that of those from conventional farms. Rants ensued. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Monarch Butterflies: How Gardeners Can Truly HelpBy Empress of Dirt

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: Establishing the Parks 42:59

7M ago42:59

42:59

What was the motivation behind establishing Alberta Parks? Why is researching the history of provincial parks challenging, and should we include ordinary people in park history? Michael explores these questions with environmental historian Jessica DeWitt. She explains the unique reasons for creating Alberta Parks in the 1930s and the challenges wit…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: Ice Age Geology 36:32

7M ago36:32

36:32

What was prehistoric life like in Alberta 2.6 million years ago? What is the geologic significance of the provincial parks, and how can geology help us deepen our connection to the parks? Michael explores these questions with history and earth science educator, and author Cory Gross. They cover the unique geology of Castle Wildland Provincial Park,…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: An Archaeological Adventure in Glenbow Ranch 51:03

7M ago51:03

51:03

What unique history is buried under Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park? What is it like leading your first archaeological dig? What makes Glenbow Ranch ecologically significant and why does it need to be protected? Michael explores these questions with archaeologist, historian, and author Shari Peyerl. Their conversation focuses on Shari's book, Alberta…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: Miquelon & Park Interpretation 30:06

7M ago30:06

30:06

What makes Miquelon Lake Provincial Park historically unique? What benefits do visitors get from their time at a provincial park? What is the history of park interpretation programs and why are they important today? Michael explores these questions with the University of Alberta's Glen Hvenegaard. They cover the history of Miquelon as a migratory b…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: Conservation in Kananaskis 33:16

7M ago33:16

33:16

Historically, what is the ecological significance of Kananaskis? What development concerns have arisen in the past, and what can people do to ensure this space is managed appropriately? Michael explores these questions with Executive Director of CPAWS Southern Alberta Katie Morrison. They cover the ecological recognition of Kananaskis in the 1940s,…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: Indigenous Heritage at Áísínai’pi 30:05

7M ago30:05

30:05

What is the significance of Áísínai'pi (Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park) to the Niitsítapi people? What is the role of policy in indigenous groups maintaining their spiritual connection to Áísínai'pi? How is the indigenous cultural understanding of heritage unique? Michael explores these questions with heritage management practitioner Camina Wease…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks: An Uplifting Conversation in the Crowsnest Pass (bonus) 19:49

7M ago19:49

19:49

In this bonus episode, Michael chats with small business owner Heather Davis about Uplift Adventures, a Crowsnest Pass-based outdoor tourism company. Heather explains how Uplift Adventures got its start, the realities of running a small business in the parks, and the historical significance of the Crowsnest Pass. Lastly, Heather offers advice on ho…

1
Remembering Alberta Parks Trailer 2:16

7M ago2:16

2:16

Michael explores the unique and sometimes surprising history of Alberta Parks. He learns about Aspen Beach, Miquelon, Glenbow Ranch, Fish Creek, Castle Wildland, Aisinai’pi and more. You'll be inspired to protect our parks for the future by discovering their past.By Michael Bartz

1
Does Touching Soil Make Us Happier? 12:38

7M ago12:38

12:38

For the last 15 years, gardeners have been told that soil acts like an antidepressant, thanks to a particular bacterium. Is there anything to it? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Winter Sowing: Two Reliable Methods for Outdoor Seed StartingBy Empress of Dirt

1
Does Touching Soil Make Us Happier? 12:38

7M ago12:38

12:38

For the last 15 years, gardeners have been told that soil acts like an antidepressant, thanks to a particular bacterium. Is there anything to it? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Winter Sowing: Two Reliable Methods for Outdoor Seed StartingBy Empress of Dirt

1
Do Gardeners Need Crop Rotation? 11:34

9M ago11:34

11:34

It can do great things on farms, but does crop rotation make sense in a garden? What are the benefits claimed for crop rotation, and can we get those same benefits in easier ways? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How To Compost In The Winter (Easy Method)By Empress of Dirt

1
Do Gardeners Need Crop Rotation? 11:34

9M ago11:34

11:34

It can do great things on farms, but does crop rotation make sense in a garden? What are the benefits claimed for crop rotation, and can we get those same benefits in easier ways? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How To Compost In The Winter (Easy Method)By Empress of Dirt

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 1: Conversation & Conservation 54:23

10M ago54:23

54:23

Why do we need to have conversations and new narratives about small-scale fisheries, how we govern the ocean, and progress in marine conservation efforts? In this episode, Michael speaks with: Ratana Chuenpagdee, Memorial University, Canada Evan Andrews, Memorial University, Canada Jack Daly, Oceana, Canada Ocean Frontier Institute Too Big to Ignor…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 2: Health & Wealth 44:29

10M ago44:29

44:29

Can coastal and ocean development happen without affecting the health of the ocean and marine ecosystems, and the economic viability and wellbeing of coastal communities? In this episode, Michael speaks with: Rob Stephenson, Fisheries and Oceans & University of New Brunswick, Canada Gerald Singh, University of Victoria, Canada Brennan Lowery, Navig…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 3: Equity & Justice 36:48

10M ago36:48

36:48

Equity and justice are fundamental principles, but do they exist in small-scale fisheries, especially related to access to resources, management and regulations, and from the historical perspective? In this episode, Michael speaks with: Paul Foley, Memorial University, Canada Edith Samson, Sir William Ford Coaker Heritage Foundation, Canada Lil Sau…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 4: Saftey & Order 1:00:14

10M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Fishing, fish processing and maritime work are risky occupations. What needs to be done to provide better protection, and enhance occupational health and safety for those involved? In this episode, Michael speaks with: Barb Neis, Memorial University, Canada Joel Finnis, Memorial University, Canada Desai Shan, Memorial University / Dalhousie Univers…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 5: Future & Vision 46:08

10M ago46:08

46:08

What is the future of small-scale fisheries, in Newfoundland and Labrador? Who’s going to fish? What will make people stay in the fisheries? What’s the vision of the communities for their own future? In this episode, Michael speaks with: María Andrée López Gómez, Memorial University, Canada / Center for Demographic Research, Spain Rachael Cadman, D…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Part 6: Connection & Transformation 50:09

10M ago50:09

50:09

Ocean and coastal connections start at home, with youth, and in communities. In a time of big change – climate, demography, policy, what kind of transformation is needed? What’s the starting point? In this episode, Michael speaks with: Jan Negrijn, Coastal Connections, Canada Kimberly Orren, Fishing for Success, Canada Monica Engel, Memorial Univer…

1
Connecting to the Ocean Trailer 2:15

10M ago2:15

2:15

Michael is off to St. John's Newfoundland to connect with the ocean and learn about why small-scale fisheries and governance matter to conservation and sustainability.By Michael Bartz

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 4): "Up, Down, All Around" and the Phosphorus Myth 10:25

10M ago10:25

10:25

Do nutrients really specialize in one aspect of plant growth, like roots or shoots? Why adding more of one nutrient to your soil, like a phosphorus-heavy bloom booster, often doesn't provide any benefit. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Growing Poinsettias: Year-Round Care & Reblooming GuideBy Empress of Dirt

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 4): "Up, Down, All Around" and the Phosphorus Myth 10:25

10M ago10:25

10:25

Do nutrients really specialize in one aspect of plant growth, like roots or shoots? Why adding more of one nutrient to your soil, like a phosphorus-heavy bloom booster, often doesn't provide any benefit. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Growing Poinsettias: Year-Round Care & Reblooming GuideBy Empress of Dirt

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 3): The Trouble with Balanced Fertilizers 12:05

11M ago12:05

12:05

Are you using a balanced fertilizer in your garden? It may seem like a simple and effective way to provide nutrients to your plants, but it could also cause problems for your soil and for the environment. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Indoor Seed Starting: Best DIY Setup on a BudgetBy Empress of Dirt

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 3): The Trouble with Balanced Fertilizers 12:05

11M ago12:05

12:05

Are you using a balanced fertilizer in your garden? It may seem like a simple and effective way to provide nutrients to your plants, but it could also cause problems for your soil and for the environment. NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: Indoor Seed Starting: Best DIY Setup on a BudgetBy Empress of Dirt

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 2): What Do NPK Labels Mean? 11:32

11M ago11:32

11:32

Most countries use a confusing and outdated NPK labelling system for fertilizer packages. What do the numbers mean? Depending on where you live, it's probably not what you think. And why is a "balanced fertilizer" not so balanced after all? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: When to Take Down Hummingbird Feeders in Fall…

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 2): What Do NPK Labels Mean? 11:32

11M ago11:32

11:32

Most countries use a confusing and outdated NPK labelling system for fertilizer packages. What do the numbers mean? Depending on where you live, it's probably not what you think. And why is a "balanced fertilizer" not so balanced after all? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: When to Take Down Hummingbird Feeders in Fall…

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 1): What You Need to Know 14:03

12M ago14:03

14:03

Our plants can't live without them, but how do we know that they're getting them? Do we need to feed them to our plants? And what are these essential nutrients? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How to Make African Violets Bloom & RebloomBy Empress of Dirt

1
Plant Nutrients (Part 1): What You Need to Know 14:03

12M ago14:03

14:03

Our plants can't live without them, but how do we know that they're getting them? Do we need to feed them to our plants? And what are these essential nutrients? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: How to Make African Violets Bloom & RebloomBy Empress of Dirt

1
Mushrooms: Friends or Foes in the Garden? 11:19

1y ago11:19

11:19

Not everyone wants them in their garden, but others grow them deliberately. They aren't even plants. So what are mushrooms and are they okay around our plants? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: 2023 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)By Empress of Dirt

1
Mushrooms: Friends or Foes in the Garden? 11:19

1y ago11:19

11:19

Not everyone wants them in their garden, but others grow them deliberately. They aren't even plants. So what are mushrooms and are they okay around our plants? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: 2023 Fall Hummingbird Migration (Canada & United States)By Empress of Dirt

1
Is Soap Safe to Use in the Garden? 11:58

1y ago11:58

11:58

What kinds of soap should we be using -- or avoiding -- in the garden? What about liquid dish soap? And we're all familiar with soap, but what is it, exactly? NEW FROM Empress of Dirt: 25 Vegetables You Can Grow in ShadeBy Empress of Dirt

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