Best Urban Love Resilience Podcasts (2025)

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Stories from the Prairie: Life in a Resilient Ecosystem 46:36

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14d ago46:36

46:36

Prairies are an ecosystem that historically spanned the center of this continent from the Rocky Mountains to east of the Mississippi and from Texas north to Saskatchewan. Although less than 5% of that prairie remains today, it is critical habitat for a number of invertebrates. Prairies are incredibly diverse and hold many exciting stories. To help …

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Greenroofs, Solar Arrays, And Urban Farms: Insect Conservation In Human-Dominated Ecosystems 46:35

28d ago46:35

46:35

Most of the natural world has been altered by humans in some way. Ecosystems that are dominated by humans or man-made structures, such as cities, can still provide meaningful and essential habitat for insects. Today, we are going to discuss research being done in various human-dominated landscapes to answer the question: how do we restore and conse…

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For the Love of Flies: The Unsung Heroes of the Insect World 45:08

2M ago45:08

45:08

Flies are amazing insects that play critical roles in our environment including pollination, waste disposal, pest control, and as a link in the food web. Flies are greatly diverse in colors, shape, size, and where they live. Butterflies and bees probably generate more enthusiasm, but it’s time to change that. To talk about flies with us, we are joi…

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Plastic Bands, Pesticides, and Deadly Drift: A Study on Mosquito Spray 39:47

2M ago39:47

39:47

Who doesn’t know the high-pitched whine of a nearby mosquito? We know they can be a nuisance, and in many regions, a health risk because of their ability to spread diseases. Some communities do public control campaigns, and increasingly, companies are offering home spraying of yards. But, the insecticides used in these sprays are broadly toxic to i…

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The Underground Heroes: Earthworms 45:17

3M ago45:17

45:17

Earthworms. They may elicit memories of digging through the dirt, probably as a child, and picking them up to discover what they are. But what do they do other than slink around and bury themselves in the soil? To help us explore this fascinating invertebrate are Jennifer Hopwood and Stephanie Frischie. Regular listeners will remember Jennifer — sh…

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Social and Emotional Learning: Making Science Accessible 39:02

3M ago39:02

39:02

More than ever, communicating scientific information effectively is critical to conservation efforts. But how exactly do we do that? To explore this topic is award-winning science communicator and entomologist, Gwen Pearson. In addition to her work writing for WIRED Magazine, Highlights For Kids, and other science news outlets, she's run an insect …

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Through the Lens of Faith: Walking Tokyo with Photographer Matthew Jordan Smith 1:18:13

3M ago1:18:13

1:18:13

Explore the remarkable career of Matthew Jordan Smith, renowned photographer who captured Oprah, Halle Berry, and other celebrities. Learn his techniques and artistic vision. Feature Article: https://www.newyorksaid.com/through-the-lens-of-faith-walking-tokyo-with-photographer-matthew-jordan-smith Photo Credit: An attendee, paying tribute with a ha…

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Protecting Bees from Pesticides: Why EPA Regulations Need to Change 42:06

3M ago42:06

42:06

The United States Environmental Protection Agency, also known as the EPA, is tasked with regulating pesticides to protect people and the environment from their impacts. To test these impacts, the EPA uses honey bees. This might seem reasonable, but the honey bee is not native to North America and its social colony structure is unique and not repres…

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Monarch Conservation: Tracking Migration with Rice-Sized Technology 40:58

4M ago40:58

40:58

The monarch butterfly is popular and currently in the news a lot. You might think that we know all there is to know about it, but there are many mysteries remaining, particularly about their migration and how they use their habitat. This may be more so for the western population that overwinters in California. Radio tracking has long been used for …

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Insects in the Balance: Why Monitoring Matters 42:25

4M ago42:25

42:25

Bees, butterflies, beetles — populations of almost any group of insects you can name seem to be falling. But how do we know they are falling, how can we find out how well insects are doing? Monitoring is an essential tool for understanding the abundance and distribution of species, as well as how they respond to conservation efforts. To explore thi…

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The Power of Policy: Insect Protection Through State Authority 35:50

5M ago35:50

35:50

In one of our first episodes we spoke with Sarina Jepsen, the director of our Endangered Species team, about what it means for a species to be federally listed, specifically through the Endangered Species Act. However, species can also be listed through individual states, but not all states are the same, and some states don’t have legislation to pr…

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Sticks & Stories: 2024 Year End Wrap Up 1:24:23

5M ago1:24:23

1:24:23

Amon Focus and Juan Sanchez reflect on NYC's defining cultural moments of 2024 through literature, film, and premium cigars. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/sticks-stories-2024-year-end-wrap-upBy Amon Focus

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The Secret Lives of San Diego Zoo Insects 42:13

6M ago42:13

42:13

Many of us likely have childhood memories of a zoo visit: gibbons swinging above us, lions pacing, a polar bear taking a plunge. Zoos also can play an important role in conservation, particularly for insects. One example is the work done at the San Diego Zoo to help invertebrates by solving mysteries about their habitat and life cycle needs, in som…

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Finding Calm in the Chaos: Dennis Turcinovic and the Modern Spirit of Delmonico's 59:54

6M ago59:54

59:54

Discover how Dennis Turcinovic is modernizing Delmonico's, NYC’s historic fine-dining restaurant, blending tradition with innovation. Feature Story: https://www.newyorksaid.com/delmonicos-dennis-turcinovic-modern-fine-diningBy Amon Focus

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Still Waters Run Deep: The Unrelenting Truth of Antino Crowley-Kamenwati 1:04:48

6M ago1:04:48

1:04:48

This episode contains explicit discussions of childhood sexual abuse, trauma, and violence that may be triggering for some listeners. This content is intended for mature audiences only. If you're currently processing trauma, please consider whether this episode is appropriate for you at this time. Support resources are available in our show notes. …

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Buzzing Together: The Bumble Bee Atlas and the Power of Community Science 31:29

6M ago31:29

31:29

Community science is critical to conservation efforts and the Bumble Bee Atlas is no exception. Volunteers across the country have contributed to the Atlas program through bumble bee surveys, providing crucial information on bumble bee abundance and distribution. This information informs conservation efforts and makes a real difference. To tell us …

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Dragonflies and Damselflies: A Life's Journey from Water to the Sky 45:20

7M ago45:20

45:20

When we see a dragonfly, we normally see adults, which are capable of impressive aerobatics and have astonishing eyesight. Yet these fearsome aerial predators began life underwater, and when they undergo the transformation from nymph to adult they also change from water to air. Dragonflies truly are amazing! Joining us to talk about these incredibl…

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New York Nico’s Guide to NYC: Hidden Gems for Locals, Must-Sees for Visitor 25:20

7M ago25:20

25:20

I recently sat down with New York Nico, also known as Nicolas Heller, who’s become a cultural icon for capturing the soul of New York City. His new book, New York Nico's Guide to NYC, goes beyond the typical tourist spots. It’s a heartfelt dedication to the people and small businesses that bring New York to life. Read the Feature Story: https://www…

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Revival of the Fender's Blue Butterfly: A Conservation Story 45:40

7M ago45:40

45:40

We all love a success story and what better tale to tell than the one about the Fender’s blue? Once thought extinct, this butterfly was rediscovered 35 years ago, since when it has made a comeback thanks to hard work by dedicated scientists, land owners, agency staff, and many others. To tell us this story of hope, we are joined today by two people…

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The Long View: Stephen R. McFadden’s Lessons in Creativity and Resilience 34:10

7M ago34:10

34:10

I had a conversation with Stephen R. McFadden, a long-time friend and creative professional, about his 25+ year journey from Jackson, Mississippi to New York City. We explored the key principles that have guided his career—from producing videos on cruise ships to freelancing and working with brands like IFundWomen. Stephen shared valuable insights …

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Standing His Ground: The Rise, Fall, and Revival of Dan Rossi, New York’s Hot Dog King 1:06:21

7M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

Discover the inspiring story of Dan Rossi, New York’s Hot Dog King, as he navigates resilience, loss, and revival. A Vietnam War veteran and former hot dog empire builder, Rossi’s journey from the Bronx to The Met is a tale of grit and determination. Feature Story: https://www.newyorksaid.com/dan-rossi-new-york-hot-dog-king…

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Mysteries of the Moth: More Than Meets the Eye 43:49

8M ago43:49

43:49

Moths are largely creatures of the night, which means they may not get as much publicity as their day-flying relative, butterflies. Moths are more diverse than butterflies, probably more abundant, and most certainly play a key role in the natural world. Honestly, moths are some of the coolest insects and we are excited to highlight them in today’s …

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Bugs and Birds: Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day 34:14

8M ago34:14

34:14

October 12th is World Migratory Bird Day, a global campaign that aims to raise awareness of migratory birds and the need for international cooperation to conserve them. This year's theme for the campaign is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds,” underscoring the importance of invertebrates to migratory birds. Xerces is also, for the first time, an offic…

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Bianca Bahamondes: The Hidden Gem Hunter Behind Secret NYC 34:50

8M ago34:50

34:50

Executive Editor Bianca Bahamondes shares her early days navigating the city’s challenges to shaping a hyper-local guide followed by millions, Bianca reveals the best-kept secrets of the city that never sleeps. Show Notes: https://www.newyorksaid.com/bianca-bahamondes-the-hidden-gem-hunter-behind-secret-nyc…

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Spider Sense Part 2: Unraveling the Secrets of Arachnids 43:51

9M ago43:51

43:51

Join us for part two of our exciting conversation on spiders with Sebastian Echeverri, Communications Specialist in Science & Digital Media for the Xerces Society. Sebastian completed his PhD, studying why and how paradise jumping spiders get their audience's attention when pulling off their fanciest dance moves. He has also written a field guide f…

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Booth Dreams: Capturing The Heartbeat of Small Business at NY NOW 1:20:34

9M ago1:20:34

1:20:34

Join us for an inspiring journey through the vibrant world of American entrepreneurship as we sit down with nine remarkable small business owners at the NY NOW Summer Market. From the halls of the iconic Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, these creators share their passion, challenges, and insights into building successful brands. Listen as we expl…

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Spider Sense Part 1: Unraveling the Secrets of Arachnids 32:30

9M ago32:30

32:30

Spiders. There is a lot that people don't know about these interesting creatures. What makes them unique and what role do they play in our environment? Joining us today to talk about spiders, is Sebastian Echeverri, Communications Specialist in Science & Digital Media for the Xerces Society. Sebastian completed his PhD, studying why and how paradis…

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Bee City and Bee Campus USA: Protecting Pollinators One Community at a Time 35:32

10M ago35:32

35:32

An important element in the success of pollinator conservation efforts is communities of passionate people taking action. Today we will highlight one Xerces Society program that is helping people to do just that, Bee City USA. Established in 2012, Bee City has been uniting communities around a shared goal of creating meaningful change for pollinato…

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Exploring Wasps: Myths, Facts, and Fascinations 42:55

10M ago42:55

42:55

Wasps. That word alone may make you squirm. They aren’t fluffy and cute like their close relatives bees and don’t have the best reputation, but they do play an important role in our environment. It seems like they need a PR makeover. Joining us to do just that are Jennifer Hopwood and Rae Powers. They both work at the Xerces Society, and coincident…

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Esha and Erosa!!! 1:31:33

10M ago1:31:33

1:31:33

LaCie discusses what she's reading and it is interview time! Listen in as Esha has a great discussion with USA Today Best Selling Author, Erosa Knowles.By LaCie Knight

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...And We're Back! 1:53:19

11M ago1:53:19

1:53:19

Did you miss us?!! Life was life'ing y'all... but we are back with some new heat and an amazing conversation with the dope paranormal author, Auriella Skye!By LaCie Knight

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Pollinators in a Changing Climate: Threats and Solutions 33:17

11M ago33:17

33:17

We’ve all heard about climate change. It’s a rather complicated issue. One that has come up several times in this podcast as we discuss the threats facing invertebrates. So in this episode, we will focus on what we can expect as our climate changes and what that means for our pollinators. And of course, what actions you can take to help these impor…

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Immortalizing the Lower East Side with a Yearbook 1:10:50

11M ago1:10:50

1:10:50

Tune in for a special episode featuring Destiny Mata, the visionary behind the Lower East Side Yearbook. In this episode, Destiny shares the inspiring journey of creating a multimedia archive that celebrates the vibrant spirit and enduring legacy of New York's Lower East Side. Discover how poetry, graffiti, fashion, and oral histories come together…

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Wings of the Rockies: Exploring Butterfly Life Histories 43:24

11M ago43:24

43:24

In this episode of Bug Banter, we are closing out our series on butterflies by exploring those found in the Rockies. From prairies to mountain tops, the Rockies are made up of a diversity of ecosystems varying in altitude and temperature. To learn more about these amazing creatures, we are joined by Steve Armstead, a Pollinator Conservation Special…

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All About Bees: Celebrating Pollinator Week 58:57

12M ago58:57

58:57

Happy Pollinator Week! In this episode, we are joined by Kass Urban-Mead, Rich Hatfield, and Mace Vaughan for this special Q&A session on bees. You might recognize Kass and Rich from previous podcast episodes, but they are joined by a new face, Mace Vaughan. All three of our guests are colleagues of ours at the Xerces Society. Kass is a Pollinator …

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Wings of the East: Exploring Butterfly Life Histories 35:30

12M ago35:30

35:30

Continuing with our series on butterflies, we are highlighting the butterflies east of the Rockies, which is a huge area and encompasses so many different environments — prairies in the Great Plains and the Midwest; forests of New England and the Southeast; mountains of the Appalachians; the wetlands and beaches of the Atlantic and the Gulf coasts.…

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Wings of the West: Exploring Butterfly Life Histories 37:58

12M ago37:58

37:58

We often hear about monarch butterflies, but there are many other species of butterflies in North America. So we are kicking off a series of three podcasts to highlight butterflies in different regions of the US and today we are focusing on butterflies west of the Rockies! Joining us is butterfly expert and Xerces Society Endangered Species Conserv…

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Mosquitoes Matter: Untangling Myths & Mastering Management 35:38

1y ago35:38

35:38

It was Jimmie Durante who first came up with the rhyme, “spring is sprung, the grass is riz; I wonder where them boidies is?” Of course, spring also means the return of insects — bees, butterflies, dragonflies, and yes, mosquitoes — and here at the Xerces Society we start getting questions about what to do about these pesky critters. Does spraying …

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Midnight Entomology: Unveiling the Secrets of Nocturnal Insects 36:50

1y ago36:50

36:50

As humans, we often think of the world through the lens of daylight - when we are most active. But at night, an entire world of insects comes to life and we are missing out! To help us explore these nocturnal creatures is Emily May, Pollinator Conservation Specialist on our Pesticide team at Xerces. You might recognize Emily from our last episode, …

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No Mow May: A Starting Point, Not the Finish Line 28:43

1y ago28:43

28:43

Tired of mowing your law? We have good news - you don’t have to, and the bees (and fritillary butterflies) will thank you for it! Mowing your lawn less frequently can provide habitat for pollinators, especially in early spring. But, is that enough? What can we do to turn No Mow May into meaningful conservation of pollinators and other wildlife? Joi…