Soil Cousins, today we have the distinct honor of hosting a voice synonymous with insightful journalism and a powerful advocate for environmental justice and community empowerment. As the host of WABE’s " Closer Look, " Rose Scott has consistently highlighted stories that matter deeply to Atlanta and beyond. With over two decades of experience, she expertly navigates the intersections of politics, social issues, and community well-being. We'll explore a range of topics, from environmental justic...
Jul 24, 2024•31 min•Ep. 27
Hey Soil Cousins! What do farming, FX's original series “ Atlanta ,” and community have in common? Whether you're a fan of FX’s “Atlanta”, the American comedy-drama television series created by Donald Glover, or not, you'll enjoy this conversation. Today, we're diving into the perils of farm life through the lens of a contemporary Black cultural character’s farming experience. One of our favorite fictional characters, Paperboi, played by Brian Tyree Henry, was a staple in FX’s *Atlanta* series. ...
Jul 17, 2024•43 min•Ep. 26
Today, we're diving into a topic that’s ever-present on social media: plant hacks. Our society has become quite obsessed with hacks as our lives become busier and more complicated. You've probably seen the myriad of hacks from spreading cinnamon on plants to adding eggshells to soil to help your plants flourish. These quick tips and tricks promise to revolutionize your plant care routine, but how many of them actually work? A plant hack is a quick, often innovative tip or trick aimed at improvin...
Jul 03, 2024•40 min•Ep. 25
Welcome to the Black In The Garden Podcast, where Black culture and horticulture intersect in fascinating and unexpected ways. In this episode, Colah B. Tawkin delves into a seemingly simple yet profound question: WTF is a garden? From vibrant flowers to healing plants, and from meditative spaces to community green projects, we explore the multifaceted importance of gardens. Whether you're knee-deep in soil, planting your first hydrangea or rose bush, or simply enjoying a cup of tea surrounded b...
Jun 19, 2024•8 min•Ep. 24
Soil Cousins, it's story time! Today we're diving into the extraordinary life and legacy of Eartha Mary Magdalene White, an American humanitarian whose multifaceted career spanned education, business, and community activism. Eartha's passion for agriculture played a pivotal role in her philanthropic efforts to address food insecurity and nourish her community. Today, we're joined in conversation by two phenomenal guests, Eugene “Trey” Ford III, aka Trey, and Adonnica Toler, who will shed further...
Jun 05, 2024•46 min•Ep. 23
Soil cousins! Today, we explore the transformative power of community engagement and environmental stewardship. Our special guest is Michela Williams, the visionary founder of Black Too Earth. Black Too Earth is leading the charge in changing the narrative around volunteerism, particularly within the context of Black farming, the benefits of eating locally sourced foods, and the sustainability of Black-owned farms. Black Too Earth's mission is to connect African Americans through environmental o...
May 29, 2024•39 min•Ep. 22
Soil cousins, it's story time! Today, we're discussing resilience, landscaping, turf, greenery, and the determination to not just want a seat at the table, but to cut down the tree and build your own house. We often reference farmers, gardeners, and other common horticultural lifestyles, but this is a truly unique career and life story about a remarkable golfer named William J. "Bill" Powell. This is the story of William "Bill" Powell, a man whose life was intertwined with golf from a young age ...
May 22, 2024•21 min•Ep. 21
In today's episode, we immerse ourselves in the realm of Black Plant Favorites, tracing their significance from ancestral origins in Africa to their role in modern day life. We navigate through a mosaic of cultural traditions, culinary delights, medicinal insights, and skincare rituals intricately woven with plant life. Drawing from a blend of meticulous research and illuminating insights sourced from Rootical Folklore of Scorched Earth Press , we embark on a journey to spotlight plants that res...
May 15, 2024•40 min•Ep. 20
In the bustling heart of major urban areas, where towering skyscrapers meet pockets of lush greenery, urban farming isn't just a passing trend—it's a potent force for change. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, individuals like Amico are planting the seeds of transformation and harvesting hope in neighborhoods craving fresh produce and renewal. As we uncover the historical narrative of Black farmers' resilience and resourcefulness in tilling the land, spannin...
May 08, 2024•34 min•Ep. 19
Soil Cousins and Flower Fiends, the first is episode of this new season is dedicated to you! Today, we're immersing ourselves in the captivating realm of floriography—the language of flowers—a lexicon that can convey almost any sentiment imaginable. Join us as we explore the hidden meanings behind blooms and celebrate some remarkable women who've bloomed despite the thorns. From unraveling the symbolism of jealousy-inducing flowers to discovering blooms that signify everlasting love, we've got y...
May 01, 2024•28 min•Ep. 18
Welcome to "Black in the Garden," where culture thrives and roots run deep. Hosted by Colah B. Tawkin, this podcast celebrates the intersection of nature's beauty and the rich tapestry of black culture. Now, in collaboration with WABE, this podcast explores the diverse world of farming, agriculture, gardening, landscaping, health, wellness, and blackness. Join us as we delve into the deep-rooted connection between heritage and soil, navigating through topics from plant care essentials to ancestr...
Apr 24, 2024•1 min•Ep. 18
Presented by Black in the Garden LLC in partnership with Atlanta History Center Episode 3: Get ready for a special Spring treat as Black in the Garden gears up for a relaunch! Colah B Tawkin is joined by Sarah Carter, Vice President, Goizueta Gardens and Living Collections on a captivating journey through the historic and lush landscapes of the Atlanta History Center Gardens. Explore themes of heritage, nature, and education as we delve into African-American contributions and how they're observe...
Mar 29, 2024•53 min•Ep. 9
The 4th anniversary of Black in the Garden (November 19) is upon us at the same time as the Season of Gratitude! Our host, Colah B Tawkin, is giving thanks for what’s to come and reflecting on her 4 year journey. We’re kicking off the multi episode celebration of four years cultivating conversations around Black culture and horticulture. Soil Cousins are in for an exclusive treat! Colah unveils a special announcement: offering dedicated listeners exclusive access unreleased episodes. We opening ...
Nov 22, 2023•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 8
In this special episode of Black in the Garden, we kick off our 4th Anniversary celebration with heartfelt listener appreciation. Colah B Tawkin begins by expressing gratitude to our incredible community of plant enthusiasts. To highlight the spirit of our community, we feature a remarkable Soil cousin, Davida, known as @condoplantmama. Davida's journey is one of unwavering strength as she faces breast cancer, finding solace and inspiration in her love for plants, particularly ferns. This episod...
Nov 03, 2023•50 min•Ep. 7
In this special announcement episode, we have some exciting news to share! Colah B Tawkin is taking a beat to reflect on her recent debut at TEDx Jacksonville and prepare for an upcoming speaking engagement at Cornell University. In light of the current tragic events happening in the world, Colah wants to take a moment to acknowledge and stand in solidarity with those affected. Soil Cousins, please stay encouraged to be informed in order to find a way to make any positive impact you can. Links a...
Oct 21, 2023•18 min•Ep. 6
Ready for an exciting deep dive into Wakanda's botany and soil?! In this special episode, we're thrilled to be joined by two fellow Wakanda enthusiasts and friends of the show, Niyya @theBloomJourney and Derek our resident ETHNO-botanist. Host, Colah B. Tawkin opens with an exciting announcement about her TedX debut in Jacksonville, FL. In this Afro-Futuristic episode, we're exploring the rich plant-centric world of Marvel's Black Panther. While Wakanda is famous for its tech and culture, we’re ...
Oct 05, 2023•48 min•Ep. 5
Colah is joined by CoHost and ethnobotany Blackspert, Derek ‘The Chocolate Botanist’ Haynes to explore the questionable ethics of chocolate cultivation. They want you to think twice before you take your next bite! Turns out, Derek is also a Roald Dahl expert as he brilliantly connected Willy Wonka lore to the subject at hand. Trigger warning: this episode contains mention of sex trafficking and child slavery. Follow and support our resident botanical Blackspert Derek: @thechocolatebotanist in In...
Sep 22, 2023•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 4
We’ve discussed landscaping before, but not quite like this. Our guest, Chad Carroll is a Senior Manager executive at SiteOne, one of the largest and most prominent players in the national landscape supply industry. Chad shares insights from his formative years and the importance of impacting the future of the Green Industry via organizations like MANNRS. Host Colah B Tawkin gets the tea on Black misconceptions of landscaping and reasons why it’s a hugely missed economic opportunity. Explore the...
Sep 07, 2023•50 min•Ep. 3
Join us in an exploration of cotton's journey from field to fashion as Julius Tillery engages in a thought-provoking conversation with host Colah B Tawkin. Julius touches on the intricacy of innovation, challenges, and cultural significance woven into cotton cultivation. Tillery's insights shed light on Black ownership, inheritance in farming, and the creative use of cotton in decorative arrangements. Delve into the truth about cotton's declining presence in American fields and its connection to...
Aug 24, 2023•54 min•Ep. 2
Presented by Black in the Garden LLC in partnership with Atlanta History Center Episode 1: 'Foraging for Freedom: Harriet Tubman's Botanical Legacy.' Join host, Colah B Tawkin on the 2023 Summer season opener exploring Harriet Tubman's unparalleled contributions as a naturalist, cook, herbalist, forager, and ornithology enthusiast. Discover Tubman's profound connection to the environment, her culinary ingenuity, and her role as a pioneering conductor on the Underground Railroad. Atlanta History ...
Aug 11, 2023•31 min•Ep. 1
🚨New Season Alert🚨 It’s been a long time, Soil Cousins, but we're back and in full bloom! Welcome back to "Black in the Garden" for an exciting brand new season! Join your host, Colah B Tawkin, in the middle of her ‘Hort Girl Summer’ as we embark on even more botanical adventures. After a much needed break, we won’t keep you waiting again! From exploring sustainable practices to uncovering Harriet Tubman's botanical legacy, we're diving deep into the world of black individuals making their mar...
Aug 01, 2023•2 min•Ep. 11
It’s 4:20 somewhere so join us for our [belated] 4th annual celebration of 420 of Black in the Garden! We're exploring plant-related occupations in the cannabis industry and some benefits of consumption. First, our resident botanist, Derek Haynes calls out a deceptive poppy from Cali. Who would Colah B Tawkin rather smoke with? You may be surprised to learn during the second half of this ‘highly inspired’ ethnobotanical celebration. BITG Theme: illsounds.com Like what you heard? Text Colah at (8...
Apr 28, 2023•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 4
It’s time for reflection on this much needed Spring mic check. Colah reflects on the challenges of winter and the importance of giving ourselves grace as we grow. We also discuss upcoming episodes, including a belated 420 special and a live recording from Michigan State University. Soil Cousins, stay tuned for a new range of episode subjects and opportunities to provide feedback! Issa Fantastic Voyage! RIP Coolio💚 BITG Theme: illsounds.com Like what you heard? Text Colah at (833)819-3926 about ...
Apr 22, 2023•27 min•Ep. 3
In light of the duality of the weather and the resulting confusion about when to plant, Colah B Tawkin takes on the topic of last frost dates. Colah breaks down the impact of climate change on planters and discusses three ways to calculate your last frost date in the style our Soil Cousins have come to enjoy. Happy planting y’all! BITG Theme: illsounds.com Like what you heard? Text Colah at (833)819-3926 about your favorite moments. Here's what to do to Help sustain this show: * SHARE IT! @Black...
Mar 16, 2023•48 min•Ep. 2
Presented by Black in the Garden LLC in partnership with Atlanta History Center Episode 1: ‘Who’s Missing from Black Media and Gardening Media?’ Join host Colah B Tawkin on Episode 1 of this 4 part series, Botanical Black History : Visiting the Landscapes of Black America for an exploration of the history of Black Media and Gardening Media as Colah discusses the history of how Black joy with plants has been largely omitted from media in American history. Atlanta History Center’s Cherokee Garden ...
Mar 09, 2023•32 min•Ep. 1
Colah B Tawkin is literally talking sh*t about the past, present and future of a controversial fertilizer and it’s use around the world. Dig into the links below for more details. https://www.motherearthnews.com/homesteading-and-livestock/small-farm-plan-zmaz82mjzkin/ https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/when-american-cities-were-full-of-crap https://daily.jstor.org/a-history-of-human-waste-as-fertilizer/ https://daily.jstor.org/what-to-do-about-biosolids/ https://www.oursoil.org/ BITG Theme: i...
Mar 04, 2023•40 min•Ep. 9
We’re partnering with Atlanta History Center for a special Botanical Black History Series: Visiting the Landscapes of Black America! Listen to the trailer and tune in next week for the PREMIERE! Learn more about Atlanta History Center: Atlantahistorycenter.com Like what you heard? Text Colah at (833)819-3926 about your favorite moments. Here’s what to do to Help sustain this show: 🤳🏾SHARE IT! @Blackinthegarden on Instagram @Blacknthegarden on Twitter @Blackinthegardn on TikTok ⭐️Rate 5 stars o...
Feb 24, 2023•2 min
Black in the Garden is back and it’s storytime with Colah B Tawkin for this timely return. Welcome back, Soil Cousins! Tap the links below to support the podcast. Proudly supported by Atlanta Botanical Garden! Atlanta Botanical Garden BITG Theme: illsounds.com Like what you heard? Text Colah at (833)819-3926 about your favorite moments. Here’s what to do to Help sustain this show: 🤳🏾SHARE IT! @Blackinthegarden on Instagram @Blacknthegarden on Twitter @Blackinthegardn on TikTok ⭐️Rate 5 stars o...
Feb 16, 2023•45 min•Ep. 16
Before we go any further…a special announcement: Colah B Tawkin will be recording a LIVE episode of Black in the Garden on August 20, 2022 10am CST at Cheekwood Estate &Gardens In Nashville, TN! Special guest is local community gardener and leader: Nella ‘Ms Pearl’ Frierson. This is a special milestone for the podcast and we hope you can join us, meet Colah and enjoy the Black Arts Bash going on all day. For FREE admission: ✔️Email education@cheekwood.org by Friday, August 19 at 3pm CST ✔️Pu...
Aug 18, 2022•15 min•Ep. 10
In this celebratory episode of Black in the Garden we meet the the visionary behind Seeds of Resilience, Tabia Lisenbee Parker. Seeds of Resilience emphasizes the stories of black farmers in Atlanta in a series of short documentaries that brings the experiences of Black agrarians in Atlanta to the forefront. As a gatherer of stories, their new documentary season continues the black oral tradition of telling our stories first hand. We unpack the origin in this part of the conversation and get to ...
May 22, 2022•37 min•Ep. 9