Black in the Garden

• Mike Gibson: Topiary Titan of Television

  In this episode of Black in the Garden, host Colah B. Tawkin sits down with world-renowned topiary artist Mike Gibson for a vibrant conversation about creativity, legacy, and the art of shaping living sculpture. From his early days growing up in Youngstown, Ohio, to working alongside the legendary Pearl Fryar, Mike shares how he turned his passion for plants into a powerful form of cultural expression. Mike reflects on his experience as a contestant on HGTV’s Clipped with Martha Stewart, breaks down the Gibson Method of creative pruning, and talks about the therapeutic and artistic power of topiary. Colah and Mike explore how topiary connects to Black identity, public art, and the future of green spaces. This long-awaited conversation is full of insight, inspiration and gems of wisdomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Farmwashing: Deception on Aisle 3

  In this episode of Black in the Garden, Colah B and co-host Plant Zaddy dig into the concept of farmwashing—how big brands use the imagery of small, sustainable farms to sell products without truly supporting the farmers who make ethical food production possible. The conversation explores misleading marketing, the exploitation of migrant farm workers, and the erasure of Black farmers from the narrative. Plus, practical tips for intentionally supporting Black-owned farms and resources like the Black Farmers Index to help you do just that.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Palms of the Diaspora

  In this episode of Black in the Garden, Colah shares her lifelong love for palm trees, rooted in her Florida upbringing and travels across the country. Together with Plant Zaddy, they explore the fascinating ways palms show up across the African Diaspora — from food and textiles to traditional medicine. You’ll hear incredible facts about the resilience, history, and cultural power of palms, including how they survive hurricanes and how ancient date palm seeds sprouted after thousands of years. It’s a breezy, informative, and culture-rich conversation about one of the world’s most iconic plants. For more information, www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegardenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• The Power of Self-Sufficiency and Cultivating Resistance with Julien Virgin

  In this bold and necessary episode of Black in the Garden, host Colah B. returns to a viral conversation that had Soil Cousins everywhere buzzing—how do we truly reclaim our economic power in a system designed to exploit it? Joined by journalist, cultural critic, and WABE reporter Julien Virgin, Colah digs deep into the tension between Black buying power and the realities of economic justice. As DEI initiatives are rolled back and corporations continue to commodify Black culture without meaningful reinvestment, it’s time to ask: What comes after the boycott? Together, Colah and Julien unpack the influence of hip-hop on consumerism, the seductive pull of materialism, and how the illusion of success has often been sold to us through luxury branding. But this isn’t just a critique—it’s a call to action. From mutual aid to gardening and sustainable living, they explore real, community-centered solutions that can shift us from consumers to creators. With insight, humor, and unflinching honesty, this episode urges Soil Cousins to challenge capitalist narratives, celebrate Black culture without excess, and reconnect with the land as an act of liberation. Because resistance isn’t just about what we stop doing—it’s about what we choose to grow in its place. Tap in. Reflect. Reclaim. For more information, www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegardenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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• Spring Plant Care & Styling with Plant Zaddy

  Soil Cousins! It’s time to get your houseplants spring-ready with none other than Joshua Hite, aka Plant Zaddy! You already know he’s family—from designing our set when Black in the Garden transitioned from audio to video (catch us on YouTube!) to becoming a beloved cohost, Joshua has been dropping gems on botanical Black history, plant-based perspectives, and the language of flowers. But today? It’s all about him. In this episode, we’re digging into how Plant Zaddy turned his passion for plants into a thriving business—styling spaces for high-profile clients and sharing essential spring plant care tips to help your greenery thrive. So whether you’re dreaming of a plant-filled career or just trying to keep your houseplants happy this season, we’ve got you covered! For more information, www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegardenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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