TreeActions

Dwayne Neustaeter and Anthony Tresselt

Arborists talk about their experience, strength, and hope gained from being part of the human forest.

  1. Jerry Kelly

    JAN 14

    Jerry Kelly

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, host Dwayne and guests Jerry Kelly and Tony explore the intricate world of tree care, discussing personal experiences, challenges in the industry, and the importance of safety and support systems. Jerry shares his journey from a passionate tree climber to a quadriplegic after a life-altering accident, emphasizing the significance of acceptance, community, and finding purpose in life after adversity. The conversation highlights the nuances of client relationships, the art of tree care, and the vital role of humor and connection in overcoming life's challenges. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tree Actions and Guest Jerry Kelly02:35 Jerry's First Connection with Trees04:56 The Challenges of Tree Pruning07:21 Balancing Client Needs and Tree Health09:59 The Nuances of Tree Work and Safety12:35 Climbing Techniques and Equipment Evolution15:07 Complacency and Safety in Tree Work17:24 Jerry's Personal Story and Lessons Learned25:12 The Climb and the Fall26:18 Choices and Consequences27:47 Finding Strength in Adversity29:33 The Importance of Acceptance32:20 Paying It Forward38:18 Mentorship and Legacy49:49 The Importance of Connection and Support54:01 Navigating Life's Challenges57:17 The Role of Mental Health in Recovery01:03:51 Finding Strength in Vulnerability01:08:48 Lessons from the Tree Care Industry Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 32m
  2. Mitch Jamieson

    12/17/2025

    Mitch Jamieson

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, the Human Forestry Podcast, hosts Dwayne and Tony welcome guest Mitch Jamison, who shares his journey from childhood experiences with trees to becoming a professional arborist. The conversation explores the importance of education, training, and experience in arboriculture, the challenges of climbing and safety, and the collaborative nature of trees in their ecosystems. Mitch emphasizes the need for sustainable practices in forestry and the significance of understanding tree biology and forest ecology. In this conversation, Mitch and Dwayne explore the complexities of forestry and urban arboriculture, emphasizing the importance of ecological understanding in managing forests. They discuss the unique challenges faced by urban forests, the connection between humans and nature, and the value of vulnerability in teaching. The dialogue also highlights the resilience found in both trees and individuals, and the reverence for old trees that carry stories and wisdom. Overall, the conversation underscores the need for a holistic approach to forestry that balances production with ecological sensitivity. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome02:07 First Connection with Trees07:05 Journey into Arboriculture09:40 Climbing and Teaching Experiences11:43 The Arborist Community and Career Paths18:26 Experience vs. Training in Arboriculture20:38 The Risks of Climbing: Personal Experiences23:59 Understanding Tree Dynamics and Safety27:39 The Art and Science of Pruning33:59 Collaboration vs. Competition in Tree Growth45:11 Rethinking Forestry Practices45:29 The Challenge of Forestry and Ecology47:10 Teaching Arboriculture: Bridging Two Worlds48:23 Understanding Urban Forests51:09 The Aesthetic vs. Ecological Value of Landscapes54:16 The Connection Between Humans and Nature56:44 Lessons from Trees: Resilience and Growth59:59 The Value of Imperfection in Nature01:03:01 Humility and Vulnerability in Teaching01:05:15 The Reverence for Old Trees01:11:38 The Significance of Tree Age01:14:21 Value of Young Trees01:16:06 Urban vs. Natural Environments01:16:58 Vulnerability and Connection in Teaching01:26:35 The Impact of Personal Experience on Teaching Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 32m
  3. Peter Duinker

    12/03/2025

    Peter Duinker

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, hosts Dwayne and Tony engage with Peter Duinker, a seasoned forestry expert from Nova Scotia. The conversation delves into Peter's early memories of trees, his journey through forestry education, and his experiences in forest firefighting. They discuss the impact of Hurricane Juan on urban forestry in Halifax, the challenges trees face in urban environments, and the importance of legacy in tree planting. The episode also explores the anthropomorphization of trees and their unique growth patterns, which are distinct from those of humans, highlighting the profound connections between nature and humanity. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Tree Connections 00:38First Memories of Trees 03:08Climbing Trees and Outdoor Experiences 06:02Journey from Ontario to Nova Scotia 09:20Career Path in Forestry and Environmental Studies 17:36Research on European Forests and Air Pollution 20:19The Evolution of Sudbury's Environment 22:39Urban Forests and Their Healing Impact 23:52The Journey into Urban Forestry 25:32Defining Urban Forests 27:03The Benefits of Urban Trees 28:20Challenges of Urban Tree Growth 31:35Tree Mortality: A Harsh Reality 33:46Soil Quality and Tree Health 36:47Legacy of Trees in Urban Landscapes 38:24The Connection Between Humans and Trees 40:42Anthropomorphizing Trees 43:59The Life of Trees and Their Vulnerabilities 46:00Concluding Thoughts on Trees and Humanity Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    49 min
  4. Tony Toews

    11/19/2025

    Tony Toews

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, hosts Dwayne and Tony Toews explore the deep connections humans have with trees, from childhood memories to professional experiences in arboriculture. They discuss the challenges faced in the tree industry, including workforce dynamics and generational changes, while reflecting on the philosophical aspects of human relationships and their parallels with nature. The conversation is enriched with personal anecdotes and insights into the importance of community and loyalty, particularly in Saskatchewan. In this conversation, Dwayne and Tony explore the profound connections humans have with trees and nature. They discuss the unique roles trees play in our lives, the calming effects of being in nature, and the psychological impacts of urban living, including nature deficit disorder. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of acceptance, non-judgment, and the life lessons that can be learned from trees, highlighting their wisdom and resilience. The conversation culminates in reflections on how these insights can be applied to personal growth and interpersonal relationships. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tree Actions Podcast01:16 Childhood Memories and Connection to Trees07:55 Career Path and Early Experiences in Arboriculture12:21 Lessons Learned from Early Arborist Jobs15:44 Transitioning to City Arborist Work18:51 Challenges in the Arboriculture Workforce21:59 Generational Changes in the Industry23:51 Safety and Awareness in Tree Work26:20 The Human Forestry Concept27:02 Interdependence and Growth28:35 Nature's Cooperation: Trees and Species29:55 Personal Stories from the Forest36:16 Hockey and Community Connections37:09 The Wisdom of Trees40:18 Forest Bathing and Its Benefits41:49 Nature Deficit Disorder46:36 The Spiritual Connection with Trees51:13 The Resilience of Nature53:36 Urban Trees and Their History55:00 The Language of Plants57:40 Life Lessons from Trees58:41 Acceptance and Self-Discovery01:01:59 Judgment and Understanding01:05:01 Behavior vs. Being01:08:36 Caring and Communication Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 19m
  5. Rob Knight

    11/05/2025

    Rob Knight

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, Dwayne and Tony welcome Rob Knight, a passionate tree climber and educator. Rob shares his journey from teaching to tree work, his love for climbing, and the mental and physical challenges that come with it. The conversation delves into the popularity of climbing post-COVID, the importance of risk assessment, and the impact of health and fitness on performance. Rob also reflects on his personal growth, the role of alcohol in his life, and the lessons learned from climbing and tree work. The episode concludes with insights on making positive life changes and the importance of community in outdoor pursuits. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tree Actions Podcast01:26 Rob Knight's Connection to Trees05:20 Transition from Teaching to Tree Climbing07:30 The Journey into Ice Climbing11:07 The Popularity of Outdoor Activities15:07 Techniques and Safety in Ice Climbing17:59 The Impact of Experience on Climbing Skills24:01 Climbing Heights and Confidence24:54 The Introspective Aspects of Climbing27:21 The Importance of Climbing Partners28:21 Complacency in Climbing and Tree Work29:51 The Balance of Luck and Experience30:49 The Risks of Climbing32:01 The Nature of Falls in Climbing33:48 Rock Climbing vs. Ice Climbing34:49 Building an Ice Tower in the Backyard38:03 The Melting of the Ice Tower40:50 Risk Assessment in Climbing and Tree Work42:26 The Inevitable Nature of Accidents47:10 Planning for Emergencies49:24 Preventable Accidents in Arboriculture50:30 Climbing Challenges and Lessons Learned52:51 The Impact of Alcohol on Performance56:03 Personal Growth and Professional Success59:04 Reflections on Relationships and Leadership01:02:42 Health, Aging, and Staying Active01:06:22 Nature's Lessons: Trees and Life01:11:05 Closing Thoughts and Acknowledgments Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 20m
  6. Odis Sisk

    10/22/2025

    Odis Sisk

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, the Human Forestry Podcast, Dwayne and Tony welcome Odis, a multi-generational tree worker, who shares his deep-rooted connection to trees and the tree care industry. Odis recounts his childhood experiences around the Chattahoochee River and his journey from logging to arboriculture. He discusses the importance of competition in tree climbing, innovations in tree care equipment, and the challenges faced by the industry, including corporate acquisitions and legal issues. Odis emphasizes the need for better training and understanding of tree laws, as well as the historical context of these regulations. The conversation highlights the complexities of tree care and the impact of legislation on the industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tree Actions Podcast02:18 Odis's Connection to Trees05:17 Growing Up in the Tree Industry07:58 Transitioning from Utility to Climbing12:10 The Role of Competition in Climbing19:21 Innovations in Tree Climbing Equipment24:35 The Evolution of Climbing Techniques28:46 The Challenges of Tree Care Business Growth33:38 The Impact of Acquisitions in the Tree Care Industry39:58 Soil Science and Its Importance in Tree Care48:44 Property Rights and Tree Ordinances52:54 Historical Context of Tree Regulations59:09 The Intersection of Money and Urban Development01:01:44 Legal Complexities in Tree Law01:07:09 The Challenges of Tree Ordinances01:12:38 Political Aspirations and Community Engagement Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 30m
  7. Tobias Wygand

    10/08/2025

    Tobias Wygand

    SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Anthony Tresselt and Tobias Wygand explore the profound impact of tree work on personal growth, authenticity, and mindfulness. Tobias shares his journey into arboriculture, emphasizing the importance of planning, communication, and safety in high-risk environments. The discussion highlights the value of storytelling in sharing lessons learned and finding reverence in everyday spaces, ultimately reflecting on how tree work serves as a mirror to life’s challenges and growth. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the concept of 'Human Forestry' and how it relates to personal growth and transformation. They discuss key principles for success, the importance of resilience, and the value of meaningful interactions and accountability. The conversation also touches on the challenges of technology and communication in today's world, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and intentionality in our actions. The hosts reflect on their experiences and insights, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort as a pathway to strength and growth. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background01:25 First Memories with Trees05:28 Path to Becoming an Arborist11:10 Lessons from Tree Work16:10 The Power of the Pause21:27 Risk Management in Tree Work26:19 Reflections on Safety and Integrity36:35 The Importance of Attitude and Alignment38:16 Finding Reverence in Everyday Spaces43:17 The Value of Memory and Storytelling45:00 Lessons Learned Through Experience46:59 The Balance of Safety and Adventure in Work59:25 Technical Challenges and Resilience01:00:01 Core Principles of Tree Work01:01:05 Thoughts, Actions, and Self-Reflection01:01:52 Meaningful Interactions and Authenticity01:03:49 Personal Accountability and Alignment01:04:26 The Ripple Effect of Actions01:05:25 Striving for Excellence, Not Perfection01:06:41 The Power of Vulnerability and Honesty01:08:44 The Importance of Agency and Integrity01:11:58 Universal Truths and Personal Growth01:13:28 Resilience Training and the Power of Pause01:16:56 Embracing Discomfort for Growth01:19:33 The Role of Emotional Resilience01:22:28 The Value of Authentic Experiences01:25:25 Closing Reflections and Connections Thanks to our monthly supporters Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 30m

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Arborists talk about their experience, strength, and hope gained from being part of the human forest.