Rooted in Care

Welcome to Rooted in Care, the podcast that explores the vital role of tree care in our communities and everyday lives. Hosted by Chantel Davis and Buddy Marshall of A Plus Tree, we explore expert insights, industry stories, and the deep connection between people, trees, and the environment. A Plus’d Up Production in collaboration with Chorus Studios.

Last refreshed: August 17th, 2025 at 8:46 AM ⓘ

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Episodes

Drought-Proofing Your Landscape: Strategies for Summer Care

As summer heats up, learn invaluable insights on how to protect trees through smart watering practices, soil health, and the implications of California Assembly Bill 1572. In this episode of "Rooted in Care," hosts Chantel Davis and Buddy Marshall welcome Wister Dorta, the Western Regional Technical Specialist at Arborjet, to discuss the critical issue of drought stress in trees. We cover: Common misconceptions about tree irrigation The importance of preventative maintenance The hidden impacts o...

Aug 11, 2025•47 min•Ep. 7

The Tipping Point: When Trees Become Trouble

In this episode of Rooted in Care , we sit down with Rob Powell, VP of Operations at A Plus Tree, to uncover the critical role of Tree Risk Assessments in protecting people, property, and peace of mind. With over 16 years in the field and a stack of certifications — including TRAQ, CTSP, and ISA — Rob shares expert insights and real-life stories that reveal what’s really at stake when tree risk is overlooked. You’ll learn how to identify early warning signs, prepare your trees before storm seaso...

Jul 10, 2025•45 min•Ep. 6

From Wood Waste to Super Soil: A Biochar Breakthrough

Each year, tree care companies generate tons of woodchips—most end up in landfills. Meet Sarah Gaskin, a certified arborist of 15 years and VP of Strategic Initiatives at A Plus Tree. Once Sarah learned about the biochar production process through pyrolysis, (which not only sequesters carbon but also enhances soil health by significantly promoting beneficial microbial activity) she got out her vision board and promised herself to bring this solution to life. Sarah shares how a four-year project ...

May 27, 2025•32 min•Ep. 5

Beyond the Burn: Navigating Fire Restoration with Nate Kazlauskas

When the flames are out, the path to restoration begins. In this episode of Rooted in Care , we sit down with Nate Kazlauskas, owner of AquaVac Restoration, to share what homeowners need to know about navigating fire recovery with confidence. From tackling hidden smoke and water damage to working smart with insurance and contractors, Nate offers expert guidance to help you move forward safely and successfully. With the right knowledge and the right team, rebuilding becomes an opportunity to crea...

Apr 29, 2025•43 min•Ep. 4

Holding on to Coverage in High-Risk Areas: All Your Burning Questions Answered

When it comes to wildfires, defensible space might be the difference between staying covered — and being left in the ashes. In this episode of Rooted in Care, guest Keith Jackson of KSTJ Insurance Services tackles a hot topic: how wildfire risk, property upkeep, and insurance access intersect—and what communities can do to stay safe and stay covered. With wildfires intensifying and insurers tightening their requirements, Keith shares what it takes to stay insured when you’re in the line of fire....

Apr 14, 2025•41 min•Ep. 3

Mastering Defensible Space: Expert Tips from CAL FIRE

Wildfires don’t wait for an invitation—so how prepared is your home? In this episode of Rooted in Care , hosts Chantel Davis and Buddy Marshall sit down with Heather McCulley, Deputy Chief for Wildfire Preparedness at Cal Fire, to crack the code on keeping your property safe from wildfires. With 28 years of firefighting experience, Heather has seen it all—from homes that stand strong in the face of flames to those lost due to simple oversights. She’s here to share the do’s and don’ts of wildfire...

Mar 31, 2025•44 min•Ep. 2

Getting Rooted in Care: Meet your Hosts

Welcome to the first full-length episode of Rooted in Care! What is this new show all about? Get to know our hosts, Chantel Davis and Buddy Marshall (did someone say “world champion dart thrower?!”), and learn how karaoke played a critical role in their relationship. We will explore key themes in upcoming episodes such as defensible space, insurance, and practical tree care tips for property owners. At the heart of it, Buddy and Chantel are excited to engage with industry experts to help propert...

Mar 17, 2025•19 min•Ep. 1

Trailer: Rooted in Care

Get a sneak peek of the newest go-to podcast for the best in tree care and property management. Monthly episodes launch March 2025. Subscribe and follow wherever you get your podcasts so you don’t miss our full-length episodes coming soon.

Feb 25, 2025•1 min•Ep. 1

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