TreeActions

Dwayne Neustaeter and Anthony Tresselt

The Human Forestry Podcast Every episode starts with the same question: “When did you first experience a connection to a tree or trees?” The responses are always unique, intertwining subjects such as trees, people, philosophy, forests, biology, history, and more. Please join Dwayne and Tony, career arborists and your hosts, as they engage in insightful conversations with individuals who appreciate trees.

  1. Scott D'Cunha

    2D AGO

    Scott D'Cunha

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, Dwayne, Anthony, and Scott explore the deep connections humans have with trees and nature. They discuss personal experiences with tree planting, the role of arborists, and the importance of engaging children in environmental education. The conversation also touches on the mental health benefits of green spaces, the impact of technology on human connection, and the philosophical aspects of using technology mindfully. They reflect on the changing seasons of life, the interconnectedness of ecosystems, and the joy of hiking and experiencing nature. The episode concludes with thoughts on the importance of professional help in tree care and the lasting impact of trees in our lives. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions01:02 Personal Connection to Trees04:21 The Role of Arborists and Tree Care05:57 Importance of Tree Planting in Childhood09:44 Green Spaces and Urban Planning13:08 Mental Health Benefits of Nature16:37 Technology vs. Nature: The Role of AI19:48 Disconnecting from Technology for Connection27:00 Leadership and Problem Solving in the Digital Age29:35 The Impact of Digital Communication on Relationships31:00 The Balance of Technology in Our Lives33:18 Lessons from Nature: Trees and Their Ecosystem35:40 The Importance of Connection in Nature38:18 Finding Serenity in Nature's Silence39:53 The Transformative Power of Seasonal Changes46:39 Embracing the Seasons of Life53:16 Appreciating the Beauty of Winter56:33 Adventures in Hiking: Lessons Learned59:22 The Importance of Preparation in Outdoor Activities01:04:08 The Connection to Nature: Trees and Personal Stories01:12:12 Finding Purpose: Discovering What You Love01:17:16 Reflections on Life's Journey Thanks to our monthly supporters Brian Maxson Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 26m
  2. Tim Bushnell

    FEB 25

    Tim Bushnell

    SummaryIn this episode of Tree Actions, hosts Dwayne and Anthony engage with Tim Bushnell, who shares his journey from childhood tree forts to a successful career in the tree care industry. The conversation explores the evolution of tree work, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of community in arboriculture. Tim reflects on personal challenges, resilience, and the joy of helping others in the field. The discussion also touches on the significance of experience and the future of tree care, emphasizing the opportunities and innovations within the industry. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tree Connections02:32 Childhood Memories of Tree Forts05:18 Transitioning into the Tree Business08:08 The Role of Beer in Tree Work10:49 The Evolution of Tree Services13:39 Learning the Ropes of Tree Climbing16:20 The Importance of Community in Tree Care18:47 Navigating the Tree Service Industry21:33 Perceptions of Trees in Different Regions22:37 Transitioning Ownership: The Journey of Growing Earth24:10 From Climbing to Sales: A Career Shift24:30 Accident and Recovery: A Life-Changing Fall29:05 Determination and Healing: Overcoming Adversity32:11 The Impact of a Traumatic Brain Injury34:57 Navigating Vertigo: Personal Experiences41:47 Career Evolution: From Arborist to Sales Rep45:34 Engaging the Arborist Community: Seminars and Training46:15 Supporting Others in the Industry48:22 Transformative Training Experiences50:33 The Joy of Teaching and Learning54:54 Authenticity in Training56:52 The Importance of Experience01:00:20 Impacting Future Generations01:03:08 Reflections on a Career in Tree Care01:06:27 The Joy of Helping Others01:10:18 Closing Thoughts and Pithy Points Thanks to our monthly supporters Brian Maxson Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 23m
  3. Leo Duguay

    JAN 28

    Leo Duguay

    Summary In this episode of Tree Actions, the Human Forestry Podcast, Dwayne and Tony engage with Leo Duguay, who shares his deep connection with trees, the importance of mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence in life. Leo reflects on his diverse career, including his time in politics and his involvement with Tree Canada, emphasizing the significance of respectful disagreement and the lessons learned from sports and education. The conversation also touches on personal loss, the value of experience, and the joy of pursuing passions, such as golf and cribbage. Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Leo’s childhood memory of a family tree02:01 - Details of the swing Leo’s dad built in the big front yard tree03:29 - The importance of trees in golf courses and landscape design05:01 - The dynamic nature of golf course forestry and conservation practices06:56 - Lessons from trees about planning and future growth in urban design07:02 - Leo’s career in hockey and transition to education and politics09:16 - Reflections on pursuing excellence versus mediocrity in sports and life11:03 - The role of mentorship and education in personal development13:39 - How inspiration and action are connected in teaching and leadership16:50 - The importance of role models outside of family: teachers, coaches, mentors22:43 - Dealing with personal loss and the philosophy of living in the present25:24 - The significance of action, taking action regardless of luck or circumstances32:14 - Leo’s involvement with Tree Canada and the growth of tree planting initiatives36:26 - Building diverse and effective boards for environmental organizations44:22 - The importance of respectful disagreement and constructive debate in politics55:06 - The blend of leadership and management in organizational success58:30 - Winning as a team: lessons from sports and life59:42 - Personal stories about pursuing passions like cribbage and lifelong learning66:14 - Wisdom in research: roots, roots, roots — the foundation of health and growth68:49 - Teaching transparency, understanding what makes systems work well, and honest inquiry69:34 - The value of continuous learning, curiosity, and challenging oneself in later years70:26 - Mark Twain’s wisdom: Never let schooling get in the way of education70:52 - The impact of leadership and support in schools and communities71:15 - Closing remarks and the importance of living intentionally Thanks to our monthly supporters Brian Maxson Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott jason dommer Andrew Hordyk Mark Przekurat Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    1h 6m
  4. 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 Brian Maxson 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
  5. 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 Brian Maxson 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
  6. 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 Brian Maxson 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

About

The Human Forestry Podcast Every episode starts with the same question: “When did you first experience a connection to a tree or trees?” The responses are always unique, intertwining subjects such as trees, people, philosophy, forests, biology, history, and more. Please join Dwayne and Tony, career arborists and your hosts, as they engage in insightful conversations with individuals who appreciate trees.