Locals Share Green Action

GOGREENLOCALLY ORG, 501c3 nonprofit

People share stories of their impactful, planet-friendly work within their local communities, showcasing the unique paths they've taken in green action. Through a range of projects, jobs, businesses, volunteer roles, studies, and careers, they demonstrate how they've applied their talents and interests to make a difference. Their journeys are both inspiring and insightful, offering valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges. These stories encourage and guide us all as we explore ways to get involved in our own local green communities.

  1. APR 30

    Greening Urban Spaces - Neelam Patil, Green Pocket Forests, Program Director

    Imagine a small patch of land, at a school, in a park, or even a vacant city lot, transforming into a thriving forest in just a few years. In this episode, we explore how Miyawaki forests are turning everyday spaces into vibrant, living ecosystems with the help of dedicated organizers and community support. Episode Overview In this episode, we speak with Neelam Patil about her work bringing Miyawaki “Green Pocket” forests to Berkeley and beyond. We dive into what sparked her journey into climate action, what it really takes to turn an idea into a planted forest, and how these projects are creating meaningful, lasting impact for students and their communities. What We Cover Neelam’s path into environmental and climate-focused work What inspired the first Miyawaki forest project A high-level look at planning and bringing a project to life Navigating resources, approvals, and community support Lessons learned along the way How students and communities are benefiting today About the Miyawaki Method The Miyawaki Method is a technique for creating dense, fast-growing native forests that support biodiversity and long-term ecosystem health. Learn More Neelam Patil, M.Ed., M.F.A. TIME Magazine Innovative Teacher of the Year 2022 www.greenpocketforest.org Instagram: @greenpocketforest Director, Green Pocket Forest TIME Magazine Innovative Teachers list 2022 Berkeley Schools Sow the Seeds of Climate Change Berkeley School Forest: San Francisco, USA ‘An unstoppable force of nature’: Neelam Patil named a TIME Magazine Innovative Teacher https://www.linkedin.com/in/neelam-b-patil/ Final Thoughts This conversation is a reminder that meaningful climate action can start locally with one idea, a committed group of people, and a willingness to take the first step. Thank You Thank you to Neelam Patil for sharing her experience and insights.

    35 min

  2. JAN 30

    Resigning Heirloom Bridal Gowns - Meranda Crosby - Herstory Bridal and Design

    What if your wedding dress could carry generations of love and reflect who you are today? In this episode, we sit down with Meranda Crosby, founder of Herstory Bridal and Design and The Shoppe at Hillcrest in Reno, Nevada. Meranda helps brides redesign wedding gowns passed down through generations, transforming heirloom dresses into one-of-a-kind creations that honor the past while celebrating a bride’s own story. Meranda’s love of fashion began early, from designing outfits for her Barbies to obsessively watching Say Yes to the Dress. That passion led her from Reno to Los Angeles, where she studied fashion design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) and later worked in the costuming department at Disneyland. Ultimately, her love for bridal design, storytelling, and her hometown brought her back to Reno, where she founded Herstory Bridal and Design, a business rooted in sustainability, craftsmanship, and the belief that every dress has a story worth honoring. By reworking existing gowns, Meranda reduces textile waste while helping brides step into their next chapter with intention. Through her second venture, The Shoppe at Hillcrest, Meranda has also created a community-centered space that uplifts local artists, makers, and creatives, making her work as much about people and place as it is about design. This conversation explores fashion as storytelling, the emotional power of heirloom garments, and how sustainability and creativity can go hand in hand. In This Episode, We Cover How heirloom wedding dresses can be redesigned for modern brides The emotional significance of wearing a gown with family history Fashion as storytelling and legacy Reducing textile waste through bridal redesign and custom work Meranda’s journey from FIDM and Disneyland back to Reno Building community through The Shoppe at Hillcrest Supporting local creatives and inclusive creative spaces About the Guest Meranda Crosby is the founder of Herstory Bridal and Design and The Shoppe at Hillcrest in Reno, Nevada. With a background in fashion design and costuming, Meranda specializes in redesigning heirloom wedding gowns into custom bridal pieces that honor history, sustainability, and personal storytelling. Learn More Herstory Bridal and Design: https://www.herstorybridalanddesign.com/ The Shoppe at Hillcrest: https://www.hillcrest-reno.com/the-shoppe-at-hillcrest/ Follow Meranda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herstorybandd/

    24 min

  3. JAN 14

    Non-Chemical Invasive Plant Removal - Mike Bald - Got Weeds?

    In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Bald, founder and owner of Got Weeds?, based in central Vermont. Mike has spent many years working in terrestrial invasive species management, but his approach is far from the traditional “spray and kill” mindset. Instead of quick fixes, Mike works with the land over time—carefully transitioning landscapes so that invasive species gradually lose their foothold and native plants can reclaim their place. His work is rooted in patience, close observation, and deep ecological understanding, resulting in long-term restoration rather than temporary suppression. Serving Vermont and throughout New England, Mike manages invasive species safely and effectively without relying on chemicals. He also trains land stewards, homeowners, and professionals, empowering them with the knowledge and skills needed to care for their own landscapes. His meticulous documentation of treatment outcomes has been shared at conferences and workshops across New England, the Midwest, and even Ireland. Through years of hands-on practice, Mike has demonstrated that non-chemical invasive plant control is not only possible—it is often the preferred approach for landowners committed to true stewardship. His core message is both simple and profound: Stewardship = Presence. Though trained as a biologist, Mike sees his role as “reading the landscape”—understanding the natural dynamics at play and responding thoughtfully. His work focuses on reducing ecological stressors, improving soil health, supporting native species, and gently but relentlessly suppressing invasive plants. He continually experiments with adaptive methods tailored to the unique conditions of each site, and he generously shares his insights to build collective capacity for ecological care. Mike Bald - Got Weeds? Contact Information: Website:  https://choosewiselyvt.wordpress.com/ Email contact:  choosewiselyvt@gmail.com

    57 min

  4. 12/14/2025

    Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank Online Marketplace, Amy Kousch, Outreach Liason

    In this episode, we spotlight the Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank (MARSB) and the critical role it plays in strengthening native plant supply chains, supporting regenerative land management, and protecting regional biodiversity. We explore how MARSB is working to better connect native plant material end users with commercial growers—and why this coordination is essential for successful restoration and conservation efforts. Our guest, Amy Kousch, recently joined MARSB as Outreach Liaison and brings over a decade of experience in regenerative agriculture and native plant work. Her background spans hands-on fieldwork, laboratory research, nursery and farm management, teaching, grant writing, and collaboration with community partners. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Communications, a Master’s degree in Agricultural Extension Education, and is currently pursuing doctoral studies in plant and soil science. She is deeply committed to the health of the Northeast’s watersheds, plant communities, and broader ecology. A major focus of this conversation is MARSB’s new Online Marketplace, an initiative designed to make native plant material needs more visible and accessible. Amy shares how MARSB is engaging end users through needs assessments and outreach, encouraging longer-term planning, and creating a platform where organizations, practitioners, and communities can post their native plant needs—helping growers plan ahead and increasing the availability of regionally appropriate native plants. In this episode, we discuss: The mission and role of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank Why native plant supply chains matter for restoration and regenerative projects The challenges end users face when sourcing native plant materials How needs assessments and long-term planning can strengthen regional resilience MARSB’s Online Marketplace and how it will connect end users with growers What this new system could mean for the future of native plant restoration in the Mid-Atlantic region Understanding how regenerative growing techniques can enhance how we care for our soil and our native plants To learn more, check out Mid-Atlantic Regional Seed Bank's website:  https://www.marsb.org/ Read about the Six-Point Program to Develop a Native Plant Material Supply Chain Throughout the Mid-Atlantic:  https://www.marsb.org/marsb-six-point-program

    30 min

  5. 09/11/2025

    Campus Recycling & Sustainability Leadership – Tara Pike, UNLV Sustainability Coordinator

    In this episode, we talk with Tara Pike, the founder of the Rebel Recycling Program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the university’s first Sustainability Coordinator. Tara has spent nearly three decades leading sustainability efforts on campus and across Southern Nevada, transforming how communities approach recycling, waste reduction, and environmental stewardship. We explore Tara’s journey from her undergraduate thesis project in 1995 to her leadership in local and national sustainability initiatives, including the Christmas Tree Recycling Committee and Campus Race to Zero Waste. Tara shares the challenges, breakthroughs, and future opportunities in building lasting sustainability programs that truly make an impact. Whether you’re a student, a sustainability professional, or simply curious about what it takes to drive real change, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration from one of Nevada’s leading voices in environmental action. About Our Guest: Tara Pike launched the Rebel Recycling Program in 1995 after researching its feasibility as part of her Environmental Studies/Biology degree at UNLV. In 2009, she became the university’s first Sustainability Coordinator, leading campus-wide initiatives to improve environmental performance. Tara also serves as the long-time chair of the Southern Nevada Christmas Tree Recycling Committee and is Vice President of the Campus Race to Zero Waste board. Her work has shaped sustainability efforts throughout Southern Nevada and beyond. Learn more about our guest and topics discussed: UNLV Drive Up and Drop Off Program https://www.unlv.edu/facilities/drop-off Christmas Tree Recycling Program https://www.springspreserve.org/education-conservation/christmas-tree-recycling.html UNLV Rebel CAP website https://www.unlv.edu/facilities/sustainability/rebelcap

    46 min

  6. 09/09/2024

    Organizing a Community Kids Clothing Swap Event, Ally Marielle

    In this episode, we chat with Ally Marielle, the driving force behind “Aydan & Ally’s First Annual Baby & Kids Clothing Swap” in Hillsdale, NJ. Ally took it upon herself to organize this event to help moms in her community swap gently used baby and kids' clothes. After four months of collecting and sorting donations in her basement, she’s ready to make a difference for local families. Tune in to hear Ally’s inspiring story, how she’s bringing her community together, and the impact she hopes this swap will have on moms helping moms. To learn more about hosting this type of event visit Ally's Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/ally.marielle

    16 min

  7. 08/24/2024

    Achieve Your Purpose – Inner Magnet - Kevin Stratmann, Founder

    In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Stratmann, the visionary behind the Inner Magnet process, a transformative approach that has revolutionized executive and corporate coaching. With over 25 years of experience, Kevin shares his innovative methods for unlocking focus, optimizing energy, and creating new possibilities for both individuals and groups. We explore how his Inner Magnet practices can lead to powerful productivity, creativity, and enhanced relationships—all while empowering you to achieve your goals in making a positive impact on people and the planet. Whether you're looking to make a difference in your personal life, career, or the world around you, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tools to help you create meaningful change. Tune in to discover how Kevin’s unique approach can inspire you to think differently and take purposeful action for a better world. Website:  https://imi.works/ YouTube Channel - Transform Your Thinking With Inner Magnet: https://www.youtube.com/@transformthinking Inner Magnet Free Community Skool  https://www.skool.com/innermagnet/about

    31 min

  8. 05/24/2024

    From Wasteland to Wonder: A Conversation with Basil Camu on Reforestation and Healing the Earth

    In this episode, we reconnect with Basil Camu, the visionary behind Leaf and Limb and Project Pando, two impactful organizations based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Basil shares his journey and insights on cultivating and distributing free native trees for reforestation across urban, suburban, and wild landscapes with less well-known methods that help speed up the success of local reforestation projects. As the author of the inspiring new book From Wasteland to Wonder: Simple Strategies for Healing the Earth in Urban and Suburban Spaces, Basil offers practical advice on restoring natural ecosystems. Join us for an engaging discussion on the importance of reforestation, the beauty of native plants, and the simple steps we can all take to heal the planet.

    1h 2m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

People share stories of their impactful, planet-friendly work within their local communities, showcasing the unique paths they've taken in green action. Through a range of projects, jobs, businesses, volunteer roles, studies, and careers, they demonstrate how they've applied their talents and interests to make a difference. Their journeys are both inspiring and insightful, offering valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges. These stories encourage and guide us all as we explore ways to get involved in our own local green communities.

Information

  • Creator
    GOGREENLOCALLY ORG, 501c3 nonprofit
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2020
  • Show Website
    Locals Share Green Action