Podcast
Harvesting Wisdom Podcast with Mike McMahon
Hosted by Mike McMahon · EN
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. 🌍🌾
29episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Inside Sundance & The Vision Behind Arizona Skyfire
2w ago00:28:24Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →Inside the Minds of Chimpanzees with Drew Enigk
2w ago00:39:01Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →Why Saguaros Are Exploding: The Future of the Sonoran Desert
2w ago00:44:02Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →From Oil Fields to Global Impact: Building Sustainable Cities with Daniel Horneweg
Apr 2700:10:00Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this compelling episode of Harvesting Wisdom, host Mike McMahon sits down with sustainability expert Daniel Horneweg of Ontario Tech University to explore a remarkable journey from oil fields to global environmental leadership. Daniel shares how a pivotal moment witnessing pollution in Ontario reshaped his career path, leading him into waste management, recycling innovation, and eventually a 20-year tenure with the World Bank working across 70+ countries.The conversation dives into the evolution of urban sustainability, highlighting the critical role cities play in addressing global challenges like waste, energy use, and climate change. Daniel emphasizes practical, community-driven solutions—from early recycling programs like the Blue Box to modern sustainable city frameworks—demonstrating how small, actionable steps can scale into systemic change.This episode reflects the core mission of Urban Farming Education: closing the gap between information and action, and empowering individuals and communities to leave a lasting social footprint.Why Listen?:At Harvesting Wisdom, we believe “We have all taken a bite out of the apple.” This episode brings that idea to life through real-world experience. Daniel’s story shows how curiosity, adaptability, and action can transform a career—and the world.Listeners will gain:A deeper understanding of how cities drive sustainability solutionsInsight into global waste, energy, and urban systemsInspiration to take small, meaningful actions that scaleA renewed mindset to close the gap between knowledge and impact
Transcribe →Inside Lahaina’s Recovery: Wildfire Devastation & Hope for the Future
Apr 2200:21:13Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →Rebuilding Without Waste: Circular Economy in Ukraine’s Recovery
Apr 1500:35:58Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →From Film to Impact: How Storytelling is Changing the Future of Our Planet
Mar 2000:39:46Tap to summarizeSend 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
Transcribe →Green Building & Energy Resilience: Reconstructing Smarter Communities (Pt. 2)
Mar 1000:27:48Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn Part 2 of this conversation, guest host Diana Kruzman continues speaking with Irina Sokhodov and Olena Rybak about practical strategies for energy resilience and high-performance reconstruction.They explain how well-insulated buildings can stay livable longer during energy disruptions, and what it takes to upgrade older multi-family buildings—financially and socially—through grants, loans, and homeowner cooperation. The guests also share real project examples: new social housing developments, NZEB (nearly zero energy) school rehabilitations, and municipal infrastructure upgrades that combine renewables, storage, and efficiency to strengthen reliability for communities.This episode highlights a simple theme: better building performance isn’t just sustainability—it’s comfort, continuity, and resilience.Why Listen?Learn how insulation improves comfort + resilience during energy disruptionsUnderstand why upgrading older apartment blocks is a coordination challengeHear how grants, loans, and energy funds support retrofitsGet real examples of NZEB schools, housing, and municipal upgradesSee how renewables + storage help essential services stay reliableWalk away with a clear message: efficiency is often the best “first fuel”00:00 – Intro 00:30 – Building resilience: how long well-insulated buildings can “hold heat” 03:00 – What comfort looks like in older buildings (real-life temperature reality) 05:30 – Retrofitting older apartment blocks: what’s possible + what’s hard 08:00 – Funding pathways: grants, resident contributions, and bank loans 11:00 – The biggest barrier: getting residents aligned (housing unions) 14:00 – Speed vs sustainability: why retrofits won’t scale fast enough alone 16:30 – Project highlight: new social housing + green certification example 19:00 – Case study: a citywide master-planning approach to guide donors 25:00 – Off-grid residential pilot: PV + storage + heat pumps 28:30 – NZEB schools pilot: going beyond code with renewables + efficiency 31:30 – Municipal resilience: renewables + storage for water/heating services 34:00 – Closing reflections: hope through action + measurable results 36:00 – Outro + subscribe reminder
Transcribe →Green Building & Energy Resilience: Reconstructing Smarter Communities
Mar 900:32:38Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, guest host Diana Kruzman sits down with Irina Sokhodov (Ukrainian Green Building Council) and Olena Rybak (Managing Director, IC Ukraine) for a practical conversation on green reconstruction and energy-resilient rebuilding.They break down what sustainable recovery looks like on the ground: rehabilitating schools and hospitals, repurposing existing buildings for housing, improving district heating and water systems, and meeting donor requirements for energy reduction and emissions performance.The discussion also explores the trade-offs teams face in real projects—how to balance speed, affordability, and long-term efficiency—plus what “nearly zero energy buildings” mean, how renewable energy can support building performance, and why the biggest energy resource is often the energy we never have to use.Why Listen?Understand what “green reconstruction” looks like in real projectsLearn how donor criteria shape energy and sustainability decisionsGet a clear explanation of nearly zero energy buildings (NZEB)Hear the real-world tradeoffs: faster vs greener vs affordableExplore the role of district heating, on-site renewables, and grid strategyDiscover why energy efficiency is still the biggest opportunity00:00 – Welcome to Harvesting Wisdom 00:30 – Diana introduces the guests & the focus on green reconstruction 02:30 – IC Ukraine’s background: energy efficiency + public building rehab 06:00 – Post-crisis priorities: housing, critical infrastructure, water/heat systems 09:00 – Green certification + energy modeling: how it carries into public projects 12:00 – Personal “why”: careers rooted in sustainability and energy systems 16:00 – Then vs now: how energy efficiency became a widely accepted priority 20:00 – The big tradeoff: build greener vs build faster (budget vs apartments) 25:00 – Who makes the calls: donors, eligibility criteria, and national standards 29:00 – What NZEB means + what it takes to reach it 33:00 – District heating vs individual systems (regional differences) 37:00 – On-site renewables vs grid mix: how to think about both 42:00 – Solar growth, local generation, and practical limitations 47:00 – Long-term strategy: efficiency upgrades as the biggest “energy source” 52:00 – Closing + subscribe reminder
Transcribe →Planning With Uncertainty: Ukraine’s Urban Future
Mar 500:29:14Tap to summarizeSend us Fan MailIn this episode of Harvesting Wisdom, guest host Diana Kruzman speaks with Kolko Trefers, CEO of Roskvit Urban Coalition for Ukraine, about sustainable urban planning during times of crisis.They explore how cities can rebuild thoughtfully, balancing urgent short-term needs with long-term resilience. Drawing lessons from post-disaster recovery efforts around the world, Kolko shares five guiding values shaping recovery efforts today: people first, sustainability, ethics, networking, and education.This conversation focuses on designing cities that are environmentally responsible, socially centered, and built for the future — even in the face of uncertainty.Why Listen?-Learn how cities can plan responsibly during crisis-Understand the difference between short-term fixes and long-term solutions-Explore sustainable building materials and energy planning-Discover how collaboration and education drive urban resilience-Gain insight into planning with uncertaintyThis episode is about resilience, sustainability, and responsible urban development — not politics.#HarvestingWisdomPodcast#UrbanPlanning#ResilientCities#SustainableCities#ClimateResilience#CityDesign#UrbanDevelopment#GreenInfrastructure#Sustainability#Architecture#EnvironmentalPlanning#UrbanInnovation#CommunityResilience#FutureCities#PlanningForTheFuture
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