Best Backyardbirds Podcasts (2025)

1
Tiny Habitats for your Backyard 21:55

6d ago21:55

21:55

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you. Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram. Please visit and …

1
🐦 Backyard Dreams, Blunders & Big Ideas 24:44

13d ago24:44

24:44

This week, things get personal (and a little playful!) as Debbie, Laurie, and Chris go round-robin style in a fun backyard-themed Q&A game! 🎙️🌿 They dish on their dream features (hello, pond and bat house!), favorite parts of their yards (shade gardens, native plants, and more), and even the gardening goofs they’ve made along the way. 🙈 From invasi…

1
🦋 Host Plants: Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Butterflies 15:37

20d ago15:37

15:37

Want to welcome butterflies to your yard and help them thrive? This week on The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie dig into the magical role of host plants—the essential “nurseries” for butterflies and other pollinators. 🌿🦋🐛 While nectar plants might get all the glory, host plants are where the real action happens: eggs are laid, caterpillars …

1
Build It and They Will Come: Certify Your Wildlife Habitat! 20:27

27d ago20:27

20:27

We’re going back to our roots—literally! In one of our most popular topics to date, The Backyard Naturalists are revisiting how YOU can turn your outdoor space into a Certified Wildlife Habitat through the National Wildlife Federation’s newly streamlined program. 🐝🌼🐸 Whether you have a sprawling backyard, a small garden, or even a balcony, this epi…

1
Recycle Right: A Conversation with Mecklenburg County Solid Waste 29:04

1M ago29:04

29:04

What really happens to your recyclables after they leave the curb? This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we sit down with Jeff Smithberger, Director of Mecklenburg County’s Solid Waste Management Program, for an eye-opening look into the world of local recycling. Serving over 1.1 million residents across Charlotte and surrounding communities, Meck…

1
Earth Day 2025: Our Power, Our Planet 22:15

1M ago22:15

22:15

This week on The Backyard Naturalists, we're honoring Earth Day 2025 with a powerful and inspiring episode centered around this year’s global theme: “Our Power, Our Planet.” 🌍💚 Join us as we explore how small, everyday choices can make a big impact. From rethinking your grocery list to planting native species and reducing plastic use, this episode …

1
Native Plants vs. Cultivars—What’s the Buzz? 37:27

2M ago37:27

37:27

This week on The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Dr. Carrie DeJaco—botanist, native plant advocate, and all-around plant powerhouse! Heard in 115 countries, all 50 states, and throughout the Carolinas, The Backyard Naturalists is proudly hosted by c…

1
Eco-Friendly Fixes for Springtime Yard Woes 31:10

2M ago31:10

31:10

Spring has sprung, and so have weeds, pests, and garden invaders! In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie dig into eco-friendly solutions for common yard and garden challenges. From natural weed control methods like solarization and manual removal to chemical-free pest management with neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and e…

1
Battling Aquatic Invaders – How You Can Help 31:06

2M ago31:06

31:06

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. Aquatic invasive species are more than just a nuisance—they pose serious threats to ecosystems, economies, and even public safety! In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, our award-winning hosts welcome Khristopher Stahr and Jenna Paugels from th…

1
Saving the Monarchs – What You Can Do to Help 14:55

2M ago14:55

14:55

Monarch butterflies are in serious trouble, and this week’s episode of The Backyard Naturalists dives into why. Our award-winning hosts, certified Master Naturalists and Wildlife Ambassadors, break down the alarming 96% decline in western monarch populations and what’s causing it—from habitat loss to pesticide use and climate change. But it’s not a…

1
Spring Cleaning for a Wildlife-Friendly Yard 36:10

2M ago36:10

36:10

Spring is here, and it’s time to give your backyard a refresh—nature-friendly style! In this award-winning episode of The Backyard Naturalists, our expert hosts, certified Master Naturalists and Wildlife Ambassadors, share essential tips for making your outdoor space a haven for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife. From scrubbing bird feeders an…

1
After the Storm: Hurricane Helene’s Impact on NC’s Waters 33:17

3M ago33:17

33:17

In this episode of the award winning Backyard Naturalists podcast, we dive into the lasting effects of Hurricane Helene on western North Carolina’s aquatic ecosystems. Our special guest, Corey Oakley from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, shares firsthand insights into the devastation caused by historic flooding and landslides in th…

1
Nature Fact or Fiction? Test Your Wild Knowledge! 28:16

3M ago28:16

28:16

Get ready for a wild ride through the world of nature myths! In this fun and engaging episode of The Backyard Naturalists, an award-winning podcast loved in over 115 countries, hosts Debbie and Laurie put their knowledge to the test with a true/false quiz led by Chris. From the surprising way squirrels help reforest the planet to whether earthworms…

1
From Alpacas to Agritourism: The Magic of Apple Hill Farm 28:56

3M ago28:56

28:56

Get ready for a heartwarming and inspiring episode of The Backyard Naturalists! This week, our award-winning podcast welcomes Lee Rankin, owner of Apple Hill Farm in North Carolina, to share her incredible journey from alpaca admirer to agritourism entrepreneur. Located near Boone, Apple Hill Farm is home to a variety of animals, including llamas, …

1
Healing Wildlife: The Mission of NC Wildlife Rehab with Ruby Davis 27:33

3M ago27:33

27:33

Step into the wild with this award-winning episode of The Backyard Naturalists! This week, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Ruby Davis, a wildlife biologist and environmental scientist, to discuss the inspiring work of NC Wildlife Rehab. After going dormant for five years, this nonprofit is back in action thanks to Ruby and veterinarian Dr. Laura La…

1
Growing a Greener Future: How Trees Charlotte is Shaping the Urban Canopy 30:24

3M ago30:24

30:24

Charlotte is on a mission to stay green, and this week on The Backyard Naturalists, we’re digging into how Trees Charlotte is making it happen! As an award-winning podcast hosted by certified nature lovers—including Master Naturalists and Wildlife Ambassadors—we’re thrilled to welcome Heather Brent, an urban forest educator, to talk all things tree…

1
The Dirty Truth About Toilet Paper: Sustainability, Forests, and Your Choices 20:30

4M ago20:30

20:30

Flush out the facts on toilet paper sustainability in this eye-opening episode of The Backyard Naturalists! As an award-winning podcast hosted by certified nature enthusiasts—including Master Naturalists and Wildlife Ambassadors—we're diving into the environmental impact of one of life's everyday essentials. Join us as we break down the latest find…

1
Birds, Binoculars, and Big Data: Get Ready for the Great Backyard Bird Count! 16:39

4M ago16:39

16:39

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, an award-winning podcast heard in 115 countries, all 50 states, and throughout the Carolinas. Hosted by Debbie and Laurie, passionate nature advocates with credentials like Master Naturalist and Wildlife Ambassador, this multi-award winning show dives into everything connected with the natural world! In this epi…

1
Forest Bathing: Nature’s Prescription for Mind, Body, and Soul 28:57

4M ago28:57

28:57

In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome Melanie Choukas-Bradley, a certified nature and forest therapy guide, author, and naturalist, to explore the art and science of forest bathing. Originating in Japan as "shinrin-yoku," forest bathing is the practice of immersing oneself in nature to reap significant physical and …

1
A Different Buzz on Honeybees 31:26

4M ago31:26

31:26

In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie welcome Dr. Carrie DeJaco, an ecological consultant and native plant expert, to explore the fascinating—and sometimes surprising—role of honeybees in pollination. Dr. DeJaco shares that honeybees, while vital for commercial agriculture, are not native to the Americas and are class…

1
Moon Gardens 27:02

5M ago27:02

27:02

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. If you have ideas for topics that you'd like us to pursue, send us a message either on our Facebook page or our website. We would really like to hear from you. Connect with the Backyard Naturalists on the Web, Facebook and Instagram. Please visit and …

1
Endangered Species in North Carolina 28:49

5M ago28:49

28:49

In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Laurie and Debbie welcome Sarah Schweitzer from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission to discuss endangered species in the state and the critical efforts to protect them. Sarah outlines the different levels of species classification, from common species like waterfowl and deer to those listed …

1
Holiday Memories and Traditions 28:34

5M ago28:34

28:34

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this festive episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Chris, Laurie, and Debbie share heartwarming memories and favorite traditions of the holiday season. From Christmas and Thanksgiving to New Year’s celebrations, the hosts discuss their cherish…

1
Eco-Friendly Holidays: Food, Decorations, and Gifts 24:58

6M ago24:58

24:58

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie explore ways to celebrate the holiday season while making environmentally-friendly choices. From sustainable food options to eco-conscious decorations and thoughtful gift-giving, thi…

1
Saving Species: Insights into the Endangered Species Process with Sara Schweitzer 28:01

6M ago28:01

28:01

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie welcome Sara Schweitzer from the NC Wildlife Resources Commission to discuss the intricate process of identifying and protecting endangered species. Sara shares insights into how federal a…

1
Real vs. Artificial Christmas Trees: Which is Better for the Planet? 11:06

6M ago11:06

11:06

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this festive episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast, hosts Laurie and Debbie explore the lively debate between real and artificial Christmas trees. With environmental impact, sustainability, and holiday traditions on the table, they discuss th…

1
Amazing Animal Adaptations with Stan Tekiela 26:27

6M ago26:27

26:27

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Debbie and Laurie are joined by renowned nature photographer, author, and wildlife expert Stan Tekiela to explore the incredible world of animal adaptations. From polar bears' heat-absorbing fur and bats’ e…

1
Turning Your Backyard into a Food Forest with Dr. Jason Crean 23:50

6M ago23:50

23:50

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast, we dive into the world of food forests with Dr. Jason Crean, a biologist and animal nutrition expert. After moving to Florida, Dr. Crean transformed his suburban yard into a thriving “food oasis” to…

1
Life on the Last Frontier - Laurie's Alaskan Homestead Childhood 38:54

7M ago38:54

38:54

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this captivating follow-up episode, Laurie takes listeners back to her childhood years growing up on a remote homestead in Alaska. From age 6 to 18, she experienced life off the grid, where survival skills, hard work, and a deep respect for nature …

1
Plant ID Made Easy: Exploring the Best Apps for Nature Lovers 22:32

7M ago22:32

22:32

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, Laurie and Debbie dig into the world of plant identification apps! They review several popular options, including Picture This, Plant Snap, Leaf Snap, Flora Incognita, Plant Net, iNaturalist, and Garden Ans…

1
Fun and Festive Fall Flowers 26:48

7M ago26:48

26:48

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, we dive into the joys of fall gardening! With cooler temperatures and colorful leaves setting the stage, now is the perfect time to plant native perennials that will thrive through the season and beyond. Le…

1
Leave the Leaves: A Simple Way to Support Wildlife with David Mizejewski 38:42

7M ago38:42

38:42

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, we welcome David Mizejewski from the National Wildlife Federation to discuss the "Leave the Leaves" campaign for October. David shares the surprising ecological benefits of keeping fallen leaves on your pro…

1
How Leaves Change Their Colors 15:58

8M ago15:58

15:58

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. As fall has officially arrived in the Carolinas, The Backyard Naturalists take a closer look at one of the season's most magical transformations: the changing colors of leaves. In this episode, we revisit some fun facts from grade school science class…

1
Kicking Off Our FOURTH Season of all Things Connected with Nature ! ! ! 43:13

8M ago43:13

43:13

Welcome to Season 4 of The Backyard Naturalists! In this special premiere, hosts Debbie and Laurie reflect on an incredible journey that’s grown beyond their wildest expectations — now with over 72,000 listeners across 125 countries! From bird-feeding tips and the benefits of planting trees to unique nature trivia and guest experts sharing their pa…

1
Benefits of Trees 20:50

8M ago20:50

20:50

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, we dive into the many reasons why trees are invaluable to our health, environment, and economy. A recent study conducted by the University of Louisville shows that planting trees can significantly reduce he…

1
Celebrating Success: Engaging Non-Nature Lovers in the Great Outdoors 35:11

8M ago35:11

35:11

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this celebratory episode of The Backyard Naturalist podcast, hosts Debbie, Laurie, and Chris share their excitement over winning the Best of the Weeklies podcast award from the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly for the second consecutive yea…

1
Embracing Fall: Nature Activities and Wildlife Tips for the Season 16:43

9M ago16:43

16:43

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this fall-themed episode of “The Backyard Naturalists,” hosts Debbie and Laurie, based near Charlotte, delve into the wonders of the autumn season. They discuss the changeable weather and share their favorite aspects of fall. The episode is packed …

1
From Farm to Skin: The Natural Healing Journey of Barn and Bee Botanicals 25:40

9M ago25:40

25:40

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this episode of The Backyard Naturalists, hosts Debbie and Laurie sit down with Angie Gotta, the passionate owner of Barn and Bee Botanicals. Angie shares her inspiring journey from struggling with health issues to discovering the healing power of …

1
Enhance Your Natural Life: Mosquito Deterrents, Bird Care Essentials, and More! 15:23

9M ago15:23

15:23

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists, the podcast about anything and everything connected with nature. We love to engage with our listeners and have a few fabulous prizes we’d love to share with you. As a part of helping us grow our social media and online presence, we’re giving you an opportunity to score a few of them we talk about in…

1
Battling Squirrels: Tips and Tricks to Protect Your Bird Feeders 11:21

9M ago11:21

11:21

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. One of the questions folks have for the team at Backyard Birds is how to keep those pesky squirrels away from their bird feeders. In this week’s episode, Debbie and Laurie off a few affordable solutions and ideas to keeps our little bushy-tailed frien…

1
Benefits of Being in Nature 28:45

10M ago28:45

28:45

Thanks for listening to The Backyard Naturalists, the podcast about anything and everything connected with nature. We love to engage with our listeners and have a few fabulous prizes we’d love to share with you. As a part of helping us grow our social media and online presence, we’re giving you an opportunity to score a few of them we talk about in…

1
State Birds with Nick 25:55

10M ago25:55

25:55

Welcome to a special episode of The Backyard Naturalists podcast! We are thrilled to share that our podcast has been recognized by the readers of The Matthews Mint Hill Weekly as their favorite, earning us the honor of being an award-winning podcast. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our listeners, as we now reach audiences in all 50 st…

1
Mastering Mosquito Control: Eco-Friendly Solutions for Your Backyard 18:31

10M ago18:31

18:31

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the show about anything and everything connected with nature. In this encore episode of The Backyard Naturalist podcast, Debbie and Lori dive into the world of mosquitoes and share practical tips for controlling these pesky insects. Did you know that mosquitoes are more attracted to people with type O blood, hig…

1
Shedding Light on Light Pollution: An Evening with Christopher Page 33:51

10M ago33:51

33:51

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
Tick Talk: Protecting Yourself from Tick-Borne Illnesses 26:39

10M ago26:39

26:39

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
Nature Education for All: An Interview with Brittany Smith of Flora and Fauna Festivities 25:41

11M ago25:41

25:41

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
A Day at the Market: Exploring Matthews Community Farmer’s Market 50:55

11M ago50:55

50:55

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
Unintended Travelers: The Story of Invasive Species, Part 2 11:33

11M ago11:33

11:33

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
Unintended Travelers: The Story of Invasive Species, Part 1 22:57

11M ago22:57

22:57

Welcome to The Backyard Naturalists, the award-winning podcast about anything and everything connected with nature, heard in 115 countries, 50 states, and all throughout the Carolinas. Honored with the Best of the Weeklies podcast award by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, we bring you engaging and educational content each week. In this…

1
Discovering Nature with Essential Apps: Audubon, iNaturalist, and Merlin 18:17

12M ago18:17

18:17

Welcome to a special re-run of one of our most popular episodes of The Backyard Naturalists, your favorite podcast about everything connected with nature! Broadcasting across 115 countries, all 50 states, and throughout the Carolinas, our award-winning show, honored by the readers of the Matthews-Mint Hill Weekly, delights and educates 64,000 regul…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Backyardbirds Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen