Conversing with Nature

On this episode, we are joined by Leslie Skardon, the chief executive officer at Sustain SC, which works to ensure a sustainable future for both our economy and our environment. As Leslie describes Sustain SC’s mission and roadmap, she dives into what it means for businesses to be both sustainable and profitable. (Hint: choosing the environment can also mean choosing profit!) Covering topics on energy, conservation, innovation, col...

On this episode, we welcome EV Bell, the education and outreach manager at the South Carolina Sea Grant Consortium. EV makes the educator's case for nature through stories of empowering teachers, engaging kids with hands-on learning, and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. She reminds us that there will always be opportunities for education, simple language can be the most effective, and the valuable role that ...

On this episode, we sit down with Andrew Wunderley, the executive director of Charleston Waterkeeper. With training in both science and law, Andrew describes how Charleston Waterkeeper uses a combination approach of science, stewardship, and advocacy to be a voice for local creeks, marshes, and waterways. As Andrew describes the intricate relationship between land and water, we learn how our society - and our everyday choices - can...

On this episode, we are joined by Rollen Chalmers, a farmer in the South Carolina Lowcountry who specializes in the cultivation of Carolina Gold Rice and other heritage crops, and the co-owner of Rollen’s Raw Grains. As Rollen dives into the history and traditions behind these special crops, he teaches us about the ecosystem where Carolina Gold Rice thrives, including the vital role of soil and water, and shares his favorite recipe...

On this episode, we welcome Tom Dooley, the director of forest conservation for The Nature Conservancy's South Carolina chapter. An expert on forest management, Tom illustrates the ecological and social value of forest ecosystems while simultaneously describing the science and history of the South's primary forest management technique: fire. As Tom and Liz discuss controlled burns (also known as prescribed fire), their conv...

On this episode, we sit down with Robert Etheridge, the owner and president of Mixon Seed Service. A PhD in agronomy and crop science, Robert makes the case for sustainable agriculture as he shares his knowledge and experience on all things farming, from the purpose of cover crops to the benefit of innovation, from the value of small and big ag to the significance of collaboration. As Robert gives a voice to the agricultural commun...

On this episode, we have the pleasure of being joined by Spencer Wetmore, South Carolina State Representative for District 115. As Spencer describes what it is like to work in state government - the challenges, successes, collaboration, and sometimes even fun! - she makes the political case for raising awareness for the environment and protecting nature. Through her personal experiences and stories, Spencer explains the need for ef...

On this episode, we are joined by KJ Kearney, a community organizer and founder of the social media account “Black Food Fridays.” An avid foodie, KJ explains how food can be used as a medium for political action and how he's used social media to support Black owned restaurants and businesses. KJ’s knowledge of Gullah Geechee history and his connections with Black chefs and restaurant owners worldwide gives him a unique perspective ...

On this episode, we welcome Maurie Lawrence, the vice president of sustainability and general counsel at Milliken & Company. Maurie makes the corporate case for nature as she describes Milliken's sustainability efforts, their commitment to progress and volunteering, and the value of good data. As she talks, Maurie reminds us of the power of partnerships, the need to "set the standard" in our work and actions, and the value in m...

As the southeast reels from the devastation of hurricanes Helene and Milton, we decided to investigate what role nature-based solutions have - and could - play in post-disaster rebuilding. On this special post-disaster episode, we feature three guests - Darren Meyer from MKSK, Joshua Robinson from Robinson Design Engineers, and Garey Payne from Tyndall Air Force Base - who talk to us about three nature-based projects spanning from ...

On this episode, we sit down with Captain Chris Crolley, the owner and CEO of Coastal Expeditions and the founder of the Coastal Expeditions Foundation. An avid environmental interpreter, Chris talks about the importance of environmental education and the impact a small, dedicated group of people can have for nature. Through examples of seabird and shorebird habitat restoration, the establishment of a South Carolina state sea bird,...

In November 2023, the Nature-Based Exchange held a celebration to commemorate one year of successful workshops in South Carolina. At this event, we collected recordings from guests on a range of questions related to nature-based solutions. As we start Season 2, we wanted to reflect on some of those answers to understand why we should support nature-based solutions in South Carolina and beyond. This unique episode features multiple ...

On this special summer episode, we are joined by Tony and Belinda Jones, the owners of Morning Glory Homestead Farm on St. Helena Island, SC. Tony and Belinda describe how their combined love of nature and family histories led them to become farmers and why they are so supportive of regenerative and sustainable agriculture practices (as well as what that means to them). Tony and Belinda share how they use their farm and their passi...

On this episode, we welcome Marilyn Hemingway, the founder and president of the Gullah Geechee Chamber of Commerce. Marilyn talks about the history and legacy of the Gullah Geechee people in the U.S. and worldwide, and explains how nature plays an important role in their culture and communities. Marilyn's passion for the environment is evident as she discusses the Gullah Geechee Seafood Trail, the Gullah Geechee Environmental a...

On this episode, we sit down with Jared Bramblett, a senior water resources engineer at Moffatt and Nichol. Jared reveals how he uses his passion for photography to connect people with the science behind flooding in the Lowcountry while also offering suggestions on how to incorporate water into the build environment. Jared's training as an engineer combined with his interest in green infrastructure gives him a unique perspectiv...

On this episode, we are joined by Kate Quigley, a natural resource and environmental economist with the NOAA Office for Coastal Management. Kate unveils what the study of economics is really about (hint: it's not just about money!) and explains how economists like herself study marine and coastal ecosystems to determine their value. Kate highlights some common economic valuation tools while also describing the importance of fin...

On this episode, we are joined by Jonathan Zucker, Chairman of Z-Man Fishing Products and board chair for the South Carolina Aquarium. As a businessman, conservationist, and education advocate, Jonathan is a prime example of how a love of nature can permeate everything we do, from our work to our community involvement and our hobbies. Jonathan's passion for resilient ecosystems and communities is infectious as he describes his ...

On this episode, we are joined by Keisha Long, the environmental justice coordinator for the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC). Keisha demystifies what “environmental justice” means (including what it means to be an EJ Community) and delves into the ways that SC DHEC’s EJ Strong initiative is working to support EJ Communities in South Carolina. Keisha’s engineering background coupled with her l...

On this episode, we talk to Rick Huffman, a landscape architect and the founder of Earth Design. A conservation advocate and founder of the South Carolina Native Plant Society, Rick illustrates the beauty and biodiversity of life in the South Carolina upstate while also explaining the importance of environmental education and exposure to nature. Rick's enthusiasm for science, native plants, and applied ecology shines a light on...