Harvesting Wisdom Podcast with Mike McMahon

Hosted by Mike McMahon

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Discover insights that grow a greener world with Harvesting Wisdom Podcast hosted by Mike McMahon. 🌱🎙️ Leading experts share wisdom on agriculture, sustainability, and education in Arizona and beyond. Policy makers, industry experts, and international outreach champions – we cover it all! Tune in for a harvest of knowledge. 🌍🌾

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 2, 2026Episode 4831 min

The Future of Landscaping: Are Gas-Powered Lawn Mowers Dead?

Send us Fan MailThe landscaping industry is undergoing a major transformation. In this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, Mike McMahon sits down with representatives from Greenworks to discuss the shift from gas-powered equipment to battery-powered technology, the rise of robotic lawn mowers, and how automation could reshape landscaping over the next decade. They also discuss infrastructure challenges, real-world adoption, cost savings, and why their documentary recently won an environmental film festival award.Why Listen?Learn why commercial landscapers are switching to battery-powered equipmentDiscover how robotic lawn mowers may transform the industryUnderstand the financial impact of electric landscaping toolsHear firsthand experiences from large-scale landscaping operationsExplore the role of automation, AI, and sustainability in outdoor maintenanceKey Topics✔ Electric vs. Gas Landscaping Equipment✔ Robotic Lawn Mowers✔ Commercial Landscaping Operations✔ Battery Technology✔ Sustainability & Environmental Impact✔ AI & Automation in Landscaping✔ Film Festival Award-Winning Documentary✔ Future of Outdoor MaintenanceNotable Moments00:00 Introduction & Greenworks Partnership03:00 Winning an Environmental Film Festival Award08:00 The Real Challenges of Going Electric12:00 Robotic Lawn Mowers & Automation16:00 Infrastructure and Charging Solutions20:00 What the Future of Landscaping Looks Like24:00 AI, Robotics & Workforce Changes27:00 Final ThoughtsConnect With Harvesting WisdomHarvesting Wisdom explores the ideas, innovations, and people shaping a more sustainable future through agriculture, technology, education, and community action.Subscribe for new episodes every week.www.harvestingwisdompodcast.org

May 27, 2026Episode 4737 min

Can Regenerative Farming Save the Family Farm?

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a fourth-generation California farmer decides to completely rethink the way farming is done?In this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, Mike McMahon sits down with regenerative farmer Richard Filipe from Hanford, California, to discuss the future of agriculture, soil health, food quality, and why so many family farms are disappearing across America. Richard shares his personal journey from conventional farming to regenerative practices after facing health challenges and watching neighboring farms sell out to large corporations.From chemical-free pistachio farming to rebuilding living soil ecosystems, this conversation explores how regenerative agriculture could restore not only our food systems, but rural communities themselves.Topics include:Regenerative farming vs conventional agricultureSoil health and food qualityWhy family farms are disappearingChemical fertilizers and pesticidesFarming traditions and generational changeThe future of American agricultureHealing land through biodiversityIf you care about where your food comes from, sustainability, or the future of farming in America, this episode is a must-watch.Why Listen-Hear a real farmer explain why regenerative agriculture matters-Learn how soil health impacts the food we eat-Understand why family farms are struggling across America-Discover the difference between industrial farming and regenerative systems-Insightful discussion on sustainability, biodiversity, and food systems-Honest conversation about the risks farmers face when changing traditional methodsHighlight Timestamps00:00 – Introduction to Richard Filipe and regenerative farming02:15 – Four generations of farming in California04:20 – Why family farms are disappearing06:00 – Industrial agriculture and the decline of rural communities08:10 – Why modern food tastes different today10:30 – Richard’s health journey that changed his perspective on farming13:15 – Transitioning from conventional to regenerative agriculture16:20 – Pushback from traditional farming communities19:10 – Eliminating synthetic fertilizers and pesticides22:00 – The challenges and fears of regenerative farming25:45 – Soil biology, microbes, and ecosystem restoration29:10 – Why regenerative farming requires full commitment33:00 – Seeing real results in the orchards36:20 – Richard’s father changing his mind about regenerative farming40:15 – The future of farming in America

May 24, 2026Episode 4846 min

Angela Judd

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to grow food successfully in the Arizona desert?In this episode of the Harvesting Wisdom Podcast, Dr. Joe Roselle sits down with Arizona gardening educator, author, speaker, and founder of Growing in the Garden, Angela Judd.Angela has spent years helping thousands of gardeners learn how to successfully grow food in hot desert climates through practical, beginner-friendly education. What started as frustration trying to grow food for her family in Arizona eventually became a mission to simplify gardening for others through articles, classes, videos, and online resources. Her work focuses on sustainable gardening, soil health, organic growing methods, and making desert gardening approachable for everyone.Together, Angela and Dr. Joe Roselle explore:-Why gardening in Arizona is completely different from other regions-The biggest mistakes beginner gardeners make-How living soil transforms plant health-Vermicomposting and microbial soil life-Why mulch is essential in extreme heat-The importance of hands-on learning and experimentation-Building sustainable backyard food systemsAngela also shares insights from teaching gardening classes across the Valley and explains how understanding soil, water, sunlight, and timing can dramatically improve gardening success.Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting your first raised bed, this episode is packed with practical knowledge and inspiration for anyone interested in sustainability, food security, and growing their own food.Why Listen-Learn how to garden successfully in Arizona’s desert climate-Discover beginner-friendly strategies that simplify gardening-Understand why soil biology is the foundation of healthy plants-Hear practical tips on watering, mulch, sunlight, and timing-Learn sustainable gardening techniques from a trusted educator-Get inspired by Angela Judd’s journey from beginner gardener to widely respected gardening resourceImportant Timestamps0:00 – Introduction to Angela Judd and her gardening background1:05 – Moving to Arizona and struggling with desert gardening2:15 – Why traditional gardening advice often fails in Phoenix3:30 – Discovering the Master Gardener Program5:10 – Starting a blog and helping beginner gardeners7:00 – The four fundamentals of successful gardening9:05 – Understanding microclimates in your yard11:15 – Best resources for beginner gardeners in Arizona13:20 – Why healthy soil is the foundation of gardening15:10 – Vermicomposting and keeping soil alive17:25 – The benefits of mulch in desert climates20:00 – Teaching desert gardening classes across Arizona22:00 – Final thoughts on sustainable gardening and learning by doing

May 20, 2026Episode 4728 min

Inside Sundance & The Vision Behind Arizona Skyfire

Send us Fan MailEarlier this year, before the inaugural Arizona Skyfire Film Festival took place in March, the Harvesting Wisdom team traveled to Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, to explore what makes world-class film festivals so impactful.In this episode, Mike McMahon reflects on the experience of attending Sundance and shares how film, storytelling, environmental awareness, civic pride, and community collaboration helped shape the vision behind Skyfire. From learning how activations engage communities to discussing how cities can transform through arts and culture, this conversation captures the inspiration and ideas that fueled Arizona’s first environmental film festival.The episode also dives into the power of storytelling, innovation, education, and why events like Skyfire can help bring communities together while creating meaningful environmental awareness and economic impact.Why ListenGo behind the scenes of Sundance Film FestivalHear the inspiration behind Arizona Skyfire Film FestivalLearn how film festivals can transform cities and communitiesDiscover how storytelling drives environmental awarenessExplore the connection between film, innovation, education, and civic prideGet insight into how Arizona is building a growing arts and environmental movement00:00 – Introduction from Sundance Film Festival02:05 – Why Arizona Skyfire Film Festival was created05:20 – Student filmmakers and youth involvement08:15 – Lessons from Chicago’s World Fair and civic pride14:00 – Innovation, architecture, and the story behind the Ferris Wheel18:05 – “Boys in the Boat” and communities coming together23:00 – ASU innovation and Arizona’s transformation27:40 – The long-term vision behind Skyfire31:00 – What Sundance “activations” are and why they matter36:45 – Sponsors, storytelling, and community engagement41:30 – Environmental storytelling and global perspectives47:10 – Why Phoenix is positioned for cultural growth53:50 – Expanding Skyfire across Arizona58:10 – Paying it forward and building community impact1:02:40 – Closing thoughts from Sundance#HarvestingWisdom #SkyfireFilmFestival #SundanceFilmFestival #EnvironmentalFilm #ArizonaEvents #PhoenixArizona #DocumentaryFilm #Sustainability #Storytelling #FilmFestival #CommunityImpact #Innovation #ClimateAwareness #EnvironmentalPodcast #ArizonaArts

May 20, 2026Episode 4928 min

Inside Sundance & The Vision Behind Arizona Skyfire

May 19, 2026Episode 4639 min

Inside the Minds of Chimpanzees with Drew Enigk

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon sits down with Drew Enigk, Associate Director of Development for Natural Sciences at Arizona State University, to explore his incredible journey from Ohio to the forests of Uganda studying wild chimpanzees.With a Ph.D. in evolutionary anthropology and primatology, Drew shares what it was like spending over a year conducting field research in Uganda’s Kibale National Park, observing chimpanzee behavior, social strategies, competition, adaptation, and survival in the wild. The conversation dives into evolutionary science, conservation, sustainable agriculture, study abroad experiences, and what humans can learn from our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.This episode offers a fascinating blend of science, storytelling, anthropology, wildlife research, and environmental awareness.Why Listen?Hear firsthand stories from chimpanzee research in UgandaLearn how chimpanzees adapt socially and survive in competitive environmentsExplore the connection between human and chimpanzee behaviorDiscover what life is really like conducting field research in AfricaGain insight into conservation, anthropology, and evolutionary sciencePerfect for wildlife lovers, students, researchers, travelers, and sustainability enthusiasts00:00 – Welcome to Harvesting Wisdom01:10 – Meet Drew Enigk from ASU03:00 – Growing up in Ohio and studying animal behavior05:20 – Study abroad experiences in Costa Rica and sustainable agriculture08:10 – Pursuing a Ph.D. in evolutionary anthropology10:30 – Moving to Uganda for chimpanzee field research14:15 – Life inside Kibale National Park18:20 – Understanding adolescent male chimpanzee behavior24:10 – Competition, coalitions, and social survival among chimpanzees29:45 – Similarities between chimpanzees and humans34:20 – Visiting mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest38:10 – Safety, research ethics, and observing primates in the wild42:30 – Conservation and protecting endangered species46:15 – Lessons humans can learn from nature and adaptation

May 17, 2026Episode 4544 min

Why Saguaros Are Exploding: The Future of the Sonoran Desert

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon sits down with Alexandra Schuessler from the Desert Botanical Garden to explore the fascinating world of the Sonoran Desert. From growing up barefoot in the forests of Northern California to studying plant and fungal interactions at Northern Arizona University, Alexandra shares the journey that led her to desert science and conservation.The conversation dives into the growing concern surrounding Arizona’s iconic saguaros, including the mysterious phenomenon of exploding cacti, climate stress, desert ecosystems, plant relationships underground, and why Phoenix’s desert landscape is far more alive and interconnected than many people realize.This episode is a powerful look at environmental stewardship, desert resilience, sustainability, and the science helping protect one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.Why Listen?Learn why Arizona’s saguaros are suddenly “exploding”Discover the hidden fungal networks supporting desert plantsHear how climate and environmental changes are impacting the Sonoran DesertExplore the beauty and biodiversity of Arizona’s desert ecosystemGain insight into conservation, restoration, and sustainability efforts happening locallyPerfect for nature lovers, gardeners, environmentalists, students, and Arizona locals00:00 – Welcome to Harvesting Wisdom01:05 – Allie’s childhood growing up in Northern California forests03:10 – Discovering plant and fungal science at NAU05:12 – Moving to Phoenix and falling in love with the Sonoran Desert07:45 – The importance of the Desert Botanical Garden10:20 – Phoenix, sustainability, and public transportation growth14:30 – What Allie researches at the Desert Botanical Garden16:40 – Why saguaros are suddenly exploding19:15 – Climate stress and desert ecosystem concerns22:10 – The surprising range and lifespan of saguaros25:00 – Mike’s experience with desert plant salvage and restoration31:20 – How desert plants naturally grow in connected ecosystems35:45 – Why preserving native desert landscapes matters

April 22, 2026Episode 4121 min

Inside Lahaina’s Recovery: Wildfire Devastation & Hope for the Future

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon takes us to Lahaina—a once-thriving coastal community now navigating the long road to recovery after devastating wildfires.Through firsthand footage and on-the-ground storytelling, we explore the lasting impact of the disaster and what rebuilding truly looks like—physically, economically, and emotionally.Mike sits down with local artist and business owner Ryan Staub, whose journey reflects both loss and resilience. After losing millions in artwork and facing repeated setbacks, Ryan shares what it takes to rebuild not just a business, but a sense of normalcy in a community forever changed.Support Ryan’s work and explore Moana Glass: https://moanaglass.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoo1wpWsKaIYQwTc8WduNF77L8PyZzz8P6PFjYewmaxExS4LNofNThis episode is a raw look at climate impact, community resilience, and the human spirit’s ability to rise—even when everything feels lost.Why ListenExperience real, on-the-ground storytelling from a disaster recovery zoneHear a powerful personal story of resilience from a local business ownerUnderstand the long-term effects of environmental disasters on communitiesGain insight into climate, rebuilding, and sustainable future planningConnect with a story that goes beyond headlines—this is about people, not just places00:00 – Introduction to Lahaina, Maui after the wildfire01:10 – First look at the devastation along Front Street03:00 – How the fire spread and long-term impact on the community05:15 – Signs of rebuilding and community resilience06:30 – Interview begins with Ryan Staub (Moana Glass)07:45 – Ryan’s journey: from success to losing everything in the fire10:20 – The financial and emotional toll of rebuilding12:30 – Lack of support and challenges with insurance14:10 – What recovery really looks like 2 years later15:30 – The unpredictable reality of business in Lahaina today17:00 – Hope, resilience, and the future of Lahaina18:30 – How you can support local businesses like Moana Glass19:30 – Closing thoughts + call to action

April 15, 2026Episode 4035 min

Rebuilding Without Waste: Circular Economy in Ukraine’s Recovery

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful episode of Harvesting Wisdom, guest host Diana Kruzman sits down with Lydia Shimon, Project Manager at Neo Eco Ukraine, to explore how sustainability is being redefined in the face of crisis. Broadcasting from Kyiv, Lydia shares how her team is transforming war debris into reusable materials through circular economy strategies—turning destruction into opportunity.From recycling construction waste to rebuilding communities with eco-conscious methods, this conversation highlights how innovation, resilience, and environmental responsibility can coexist—even in the most challenging conditions.Why ListenThis episode offers a rare, real-world perspective guided by Diana Kruzman, bringing thoughtful storytelling and global context to a critical conversation. If you care about environmental impact, innovation, or global change, this episode will expand how you think about sustainability.HighlightsInsights from guest host Diana KruzmanWhat a circular economy looks like in real-world applicationHow up to 95% of construction waste can be reusedTurning debris into new, usable building materialsThe importance of community education and engagementChallenges of rebuilding during ongoing conflictGlobal collaboration shaping sustainable recovery

March 20, 2026Episode 3939 min

From Film to Impact: How Storytelling is Changing the Future of Our Planet

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Harvesting Wisdom Podcast, host Mike McMahon sits down with environmental filmmaker Alan Lacy and producer Kelly Sallaway to explore how storytelling is shaping the future of environmental awareness and action.Alan shares his journey launching Real Earth Films, a nonprofit focused on giving back to the communities and ecosystems featured in environmental films—challenging the traditional “extractive” filmmaking model. Kelly dives into her role curating the Skyfire Environmental Film Festival, highlighting the power of global storytelling, youth filmmakers, and community engagement.Together, they unpack the deeper connection between film, economics, environmental responsibility, and innovation—while offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create impactful films, from wildlife cinematography to international storytelling.This conversation is a powerful reminder that storytelling isn’t just about awareness—it’s about driving real change.Why You Should Listen🌎 Learn how environmental films can create real-world impact—not just awareness🎥 Get insider knowledge on film festivals, filmmaking, and storytelling🌱 Discover how young filmmakers are shaping the future of sustainability🐺 Hear behind-the-scenes insights into wildlife cinematography and patience in storytelling🔥 Understand the vision behind the Skyfire Environmental Film Festival and its global reach💡 Walk away inspired by how small actions today can shape the next 100 yearsTimestamps00:00 – Welcome to Harvesting Wisdom01:10 – Meet Alan Lacy & Real Earth Films03:45 – Rethinking filmmaking: giving back vs. extractive storytelling06:10 – Kelly’s journey: from event producer to environmental film curator08:20 – Inside the Skyfire Environmental Film Festival11:30 – Youth filmmakers & global storytelling impact15:40 – Powerful stories from around the world (Ireland, Korea, Kyrgyzstan)20:15 – Environmental issues: waste, economics & human impact25:10 – AI, job shifts & the future of work28:40 – Becoming a parent & finding hope for the future32:20 – Building Arizona as a sustainability & film hub36:10 – Connecting filmmakers, nonprofits & opportunities40:00 – What makes film festivals powerful (beyond the films)44:30 – Why filmmaking takes years (not minutes)48:20 – Wildlife cinematography & capturing rare moments52:10 – Arizona wildlife, wolves & biodiversity56:30 – Upcoming Arizona-focused documentary series59:00 – Skyfire Festival highlights & Alan’s live seminar01:03:30 – Final thoughts & call to action#HarvestingWisdom #SkyfireFilmFestival #EnvironmentalFilms #Sustainability #Filmmaking #DocumentaryFilm #ClimateAction #UrbanFarming #StorytellingMatters #WildlifeFilmmaking #ArizonaEvents #EcoStorytelling #FutureOfFilm #GreenInnovation #EnvironmentalEducation