Engaged with Ecology podcast

Engaged With Ecology: A podcast, process and journey of inquiry into Phenomenology and Herbalism and their potential as accessible pathways to better relationships with the more than human world. Hosted by Joe Culhane, this is his major project for the culmination of the MA in Engaged Ecology at Schumacher College (via the University of Plymouth) in Devon, England. It will focus on phenomenology, herbalism (specifically intuitive and sensory), our relationships with the more-than-human world, and whether philosophy like phenomenology should be more accessible.

Also whether it is or could be a good tool/resource for building these better relationships with the world of nature we are intrinsically connected to and a part of, why this is so important to me, and what I believe is at stake.This is a scholarly personal narrative with elements of scholarly activism and (post) qualitative research methodology.

The key questions explored are: How does (or can) the practice or process of phenomenology facilitate and deepen a relationship with the more-than-human world for those in Western Civilization?

A secondary question: Is intuitive and sensory herbalism a form of phenomenology? And if so, are these perhaps more accessible pathways for folks to connect with the more-than-human world and develop better relationships?

A third question that has come out of these inquiries, and will be explored throughout is ethical: what role do the more-than-humans have in these relationships and what responsibility do I have in acknowledging their contributions?

And finally a fourth question that will be woven through this project is: Could this inquiry potentially help shift our settler-colonial and capitalist – perpetual growth on a finite planet – mindset and world view, which drives the Western Civilization story that is at the heart of our current dominant global narrative? And if so, what would this look like to more collectively live and breathe as relational beings?

PCC, Sustain Me! Podcast

So, what is PCC, Sustain Me! all about? I’m glad you asked. Here’s the scoop:

From one of the leading sustainability institutions in higher education, Portland Community College, comes a podcast for students, staff and faculty of colleges as well everyday people. It will take an earnest but lighthearted look at ways to focus on improving sustainability and environmental justice initiatives across the globe. The show is hosted by Joe Culhane, who was a PCC student and the district Sustainability Communications Coordinator. The program focused primarily on PCC and it’s sustainability and environmental justice initiatives and achievements though also include a series of interviews and stories woven in from other higher education institutions/politicians/non-profits, sharing the highlights of their recent achievements, current initiatives, successes and failures, and taking a look back on what they’d do differently.

The objective of this podcast was to help provide both an entertaining and accessible outlet for learning about how colleges across the country and globe are making a difference in the world through environmental sustainability, social justice, and equity, diversity, and inclusion work. Ultimately the idea was to create an archive of initiatives, best practices, and actions with both concrete evidence of successes and failures along with anecdotal stories that connect more to that deep integral part of us all that loves a good story. Another aspect of this podcast was working towards showing how it relates to, and raise awareness around, the United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

It’s also a platform and outlet for the voices in our communities whose voices have not been traditionally heard. This is the element of social justice that is most needed these days and this program offers an opportunity to share stories and the voices of marginalized and oppressed people and groups who are the ones who are likely going to be providing the solutions and leadership needed as we move forward.