The podcast that resides at the intersection of Black Culture and horticulture in a world where all the garden fairies and most of the gnomes are white. Hosted by millennial black plant enthusiast and self proclaimed Plantrepreneur, Colah B Tawkin. 'Conversations WILL be had' on a range of topics that directly influence and impact black plant keepers as we blackily impact and influence the world. Follow @blackinthegarden in IG and Tune in weekly! Send any questions, concerns or feedback to h ...
…
continue reading
In Loving Memory of Ananda Lewis. We are deeply saddened that Ananda Lewis—television icon, mother, truth-teller, and fierce health advocate—has passed away. We were proud to have her join us on Black in the Garden as the Black media legend that she was, sharing her powerful story with grace, candor, and urgency. In her honor, we are re-releasing t…
…
continue reading
Soil Cousins, we made it to the Spring season finale! This wrap-up episode is a heartfelt celebration of our year in collaboration with WABE. After four years of independently producing Black in the Garden, this chapter brought new depth to our storytelling—with a full production team, a custom set, and the debut of our cohost, Plant Zaddy! Join Co…
…
continue reading
In this powerful episode of Black in the Garden, Colah B and co-host Joshua Hite (aka Plant Zaddy) dig into the revolutionary legacy of Fannie Lou Hamer and the Freedom Farm Cooperative. They explore how Hamer’s vision of food sovereignty, land ownership, and cooperative economics empowered Black communities—and why that vision still matters today.…
…
continue reading
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 …
…
continue reading
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 worke…
…
continue reading
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 resili…
…
continue reading

1
The Power of Self-Sufficiency and Cultivating Resistance with Julien Virgin
38:34
38:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:34In 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…
…
continue reading

1
Spring Plant Care & Styling with Plant Zaddy
40:38
40:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:38Soil 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 persp…
…
continue reading

1
Don't Moss With Me II with Plant Zaddy & The Chocolate Botanist
29:10
29:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:10We’re back with another plant-powered game that blends knowledge, culture, and plenty of laughs—Don’t Moss With Me! Inspired by the fast-paced fun of game of IKYFL from The Terrell Show. This Black botanical trivia challenge puts a fresh spin on exploring the vibrant intersections of Black culture and horticulture. Today, Colah B. Tawkin, co-host P…
…
continue reading

1
Storytelling for Justice: Filmmaking & Environmental Activism with Dana Michelle Maule
42:55
42:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:55On this episode of Black in the Garden, we explore the intersection of storytelling, environmental justice, and Black history with award-winning filmmaker and activist Dana Michelle Maule. Dana’s latest project, Moncrief Springs, is a powerful travel documentary showcasing how urban tourism can protect Black neighborhoods and preserve their rich cu…
…
continue reading

1
Growing the Future: How Principal Farmer Patrick Muhammad is Cultivating Young Minds
36:20
36:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:20Welcome back, Soil Cousins! In this inspiring (part two) episode of Black in the Garden, host Colah B. Tawkin continues the conversation with Patrick Muhammad, also known as The Principal Farmer. As the Principal of Chattahoochee Hills Charter School, Patrick is redefining education by integrating hands-on agricultural lessons into the curriculum, …
…
continue reading

1
Farming by Faith with special guest Patrick Muhammand
41:36
41:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:36Soil Cousins, today’s episode is all about growth—both in the soil and in the soul. We’re digging into the journey of Patrick S. Muhammad, also known as The Principal Farmer, a visionary leader in the homesteading movement who’s transforming lives through agriculture. Patrick has spent the last decade turning his 31-acre Your Faith Farms into a thr…
…
continue reading
In this whimsical and lavish episode of Black in the Garden, Colah B. Tawkin turns the luxury dial all the way up as she explores the ultimate plant lover’s fantasy—a world where money is no object, and no plant is off-limits! Joined by the ever-fabulous Derek, The Chocolate Botanist, this conversation reimagines horticulture through a lens of opul…
…
continue reading
Plants aren’t just about adding greenery to your space—they hold real economic potential and can open doors to thriving business opportunities. In this episode of Black in the Garden, we explore “plantrepreneurship”—the intersection of plant passion and entrepreneurship—and the importance of increasing Black representation in the plant and gardenin…
…
continue reading

1
Break Up with Roses – A Valentine’s Plant Guide
36:17
36:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:17Roses are red, violets are blue… but have you ever considered heart-shaped leaves as unique as you? Love is in the air, and in this special Valentine’s Plant Guide, Colah B Tawkin and Plant Zaddy challenge the traditional rose bouquet by highlighting alternative plants that symbolize love and growth. We’re digging into plants that offer beauty, lon…
…
continue reading

1
Don’t Moss With Me (Botanical Black History)
18:02
18:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:02Welcome back, Soil Cousins! We’re back with a new season of Black in the Garden! We’re introducing a brand-new, plant-powered game that blends knowledge, culture, and plenty of laughs—Don’t Moss With Me! Inspired by the fast-paced fun of games like IKYFL from The Terrell Show this Black botanical trivia challenge puts a fresh spin on how we explore…
…
continue reading

1
Black in the Garden on *City Lights* with Lois Reitzes
38:03
38:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:03As we close out the year, we’re excited to share a special conversation between *Black in the Garden* host Colah B. Tawkin and WABE’s City Lights* with Lois Reitzes. In this inspiring interview, Colah reflects on her personal journey, her deep love for plants, and the importance of always striving and growing—both in life and in the garden. While t…
…
continue reading

1
Single Plant Parents: Love & Lessons from the Greenhouse
35:12
35:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:12Soil Cousins, it’s cuffing and holiday season—a time for matching pajamas or cozy solo nights, depending on where life finds you. Whether you’re snuggled up with a partner or embracing the solo journey, this episode of Black in the Garden is for all the single Plant Parents nurturing their greens—and themselves. Join Colah B. and guest cohost, Plan…
…
continue reading

1
Healing the World, One Mile at a Time with Lelo Jones
33:33
33:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:33Soil Cousins, get ready to be inspired! The dynamic Lelo Jones is back! Lelo is a passionate advocate for sustainable living, urban farming, and community empowerment. Fresh off his awe-inspiring 100-mile walk from Columbus to Atlanta, Lelo shares the powerful story behind “Heal the World, 100 Miles to Change,” an initiative designed to raise aware…
…
continue reading
Soil Cousins! Welcome to the first-ever Thanksgiving episode of Black in the Garden! As we celebrate our fifth anniversary, we’re soaking in the spirit of gratitude and pulling up to the Black Thanksgiving table for a flavorful discussion. This year, we’re serving up some hot takes on clashing Black cultural perspectives around holiday favorites—ev…
…
continue reading

1
Anniversary Celebration - 5 Years of Resilience, Strength & Blooming
25:07
25:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:07It's always a celebration when we link up! In this special anniversary episode, the tables are turned as Plant Zaddy, aka Josh Hite, interviews Colah B Tawkin—the voice and heart behind Black in the Garden. Together, they delve into the journey, lessons, and passion for plants that have made the podcast a beloved space for growth, resilience, and c…
…
continue reading
In uncertain times, what better way to find inspiration than through a great story? On this episode of Black In The Garden, we spotlight incredible Black individuals who have made a significant impact in the world of horticulture. Today, we shine a light on Pearl Fryar, a man whose passion for plants goes beyond mere gardening. He’s made a real dif…
…
continue reading
Welcome to the world of magical plants! In this episode of Black in the Garden, we’re thrilled to welcome Keyoncé Dillon, a New Orleans-based spiritual practitioner, life coach, and host of the Millennial Soul Food podcast. Keyoncé brings a rich perspective rooted in Black, Queer, and Southern experiences, offering deep insights into Hoodoo, plant …
…
continue reading

1
Plants, Community, and Business with Tropical Express
34:11
34:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:11On this episode of Black In The Garden, we explore the incredible journey of Tropical Express ATL, a business that sprouted from a backyard greenhouse and blossomed into one of Atlanta’s most beloved plant destinations. From serving plant lovers, photographers, and filmmakers, to being a go-to spot for creatives, Tropical Express has become more th…
…
continue reading

1
Collards: A Cultural Journey Through Time and Taste
29:08
29:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:08Welcome back to another enriching episode of Black in the Garden with host Colah B. Tawkin and co-host Plant Zaddy. Indulge in a flavorful and historical exploration of collard greens (AKA Black Pant Fave), a symbol deeply rooted in Black culture. From their African origins to their modern-day presence in soul food and contemporary cuisine, collard…
…
continue reading
In today’s episode, we’re tapping into a conversation that blends beer, Black culture, and agriculture in a way that’s both innovative and meaningful. Ale Sharpton, the pioneering force behind BrewGether, joins us to explore how craft beer can be more than just a beverage—it can be a bridge to community empowerment, sustainability, and economic equ…
…
continue reading

1
Fall Into Your Zone: Autumn Planting & Hardiness Zones
29:08
29:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:08Soil Cousins! As the seasons change and we gear up for fall, it’s time to help you grow smarter, not harder. Today’s episode is all about “fall planting”—we're here to guide you through what to plant this season based on your “hardiness zones.” But first, what exactly are “hardiness zones”? These zones help gardeners and farmers determine which pla…
…
continue reading

1
Rewind: Cotton Farming with Julius Tillery
34:41
34:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:41Hey Soil Cousins! Let’s rewind to a fantastic conversation and exploration with Julius Tillery who is an American Cotton Farmer. Julius touches on the intricacy of innovation, challenges, and cultural significance woven into cotton cultivation. Julius' insights shed light on Black ownership, inheritance in farming, and the creative use of cotton in…
…
continue reading

1
Cherokee Garden Library Highlights: Reflecting on Botanical Black History (Best Of Series)
29:49
29:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:49Welcome back, Soil Cousins! With the crisp air and the changing seasons, it's the perfect time to reflect. If you haven't had a chance to listen to our series in partnership with the Atlanta History Center, we've got you covered! In this fourth installment of our four-part series, "Botanical Black History: Visiting the Landscapes of Black America,"…
…
continue reading

1
Plant Faves Part II: Live from The Soil Festival Atlanta
19:05
19:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:05We are back with a continuation of Black Plant Faves! This season, we kicked off with an insightful discussion between African American culture and the popularity of various plants, flowers, and herbs. To truly uncover the “Black Plant Faves,” we took to the streets and hit the soil! This Summer, we had the incredible opportunity to attend the Soil…
…
continue reading

1
What Do Plants Have to Do with Politics? With Rose Scott
30:37
30:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:37Soil Cousins, today we have the distinct honor of hosting a voice synonymous with insightful journalism and a powerful advocate for environmental justice and community empowerment. As the host of WABE’s "Closer Look," Rose Scott has consistently highlighted stories that matter deeply to Atlanta and beyond. With over two decades of experience, she e…
…
continue reading

1
Black Farm Life through FX’s “Atlanta” with special guest Kelundra Smith
43:29
43:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:29Hey Soil Cousins! What do farming, FX's original series “Atlanta,” and community have in common? Whether you're a fan of FX’s “Atlanta”, the American comedy-drama television series created by Donald Glover, or not, you'll enjoy this conversation. Today, we're diving into the perils of farm life through the lens of a contemporary Black cultural char…
…
continue reading
Today, we're diving into a topic that’s ever-present on social media: plant hacks. Our society has become quite obsessed with hacks as our lives become busier and more complicated. You've probably seen the myriad of hacks from spreading cinnamon on plants to adding eggshells to soil to help your plants flourish. These quick tips and tricks promise …
…
continue reading
Welcome to the Black In The Garden Podcast, where Black culture and horticulture intersect in fascinating and unexpected ways. In this episode, Colah B. Tawkin delves into a seemingly simple yet profound question: WTF is a garden? From vibrant flowers to healing plants, and from meditative spaces to community green projects, we explore the multifac…
…
continue reading

1
We Really Need to Talk About Eartha M. M. White
46:14
46:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:14Soil Cousins, it's story time! Today we're diving into the extraordinary life and legacy of Eartha Mary Magdalene White, an American humanitarian whose multifaceted career spanned education, business, and community activism. Eartha's passion for agriculture played a pivotal role in her philanthropic efforts to address food insecurity and nourish he…
…
continue reading

1
Let’s Get Black Too Earth with special guest Michela Williams
38:52
38:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:52Soil cousins! Today, we explore the transformative power of community engagement and environmental stewardship. Our special guest is Michela Williams, the visionary founder of Black Too Earth. Black Too Earth is leading the charge in changing the narrative around volunteerism, particularly within the context of Black farming, the benefits of eating…
…
continue reading

1
Botanical Black History: Bill Powell's Clearview Golf Course
20:55
20:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:55Soil cousins, it's story time! Today, we're discussing resilience, landscaping, turf, greenery, and the determination to not just want a seat at the table, but to cut down the tree and build your own house. We often reference farmers, gardeners, and other common horticultural lifestyles, but this is a truly unique career and life story about a rema…
…
continue reading
In today's episode, we immerse ourselves in the realm of Black Plant Favorites, tracing their significance from ancestral origins in Africa to their role in modern day life. We navigate through a mosaic of cultural traditions, culinary delights, medicinal insights, and skincare rituals intricately woven with plant life. Drawing from a blend of meti…
…
continue reading
In the bustling heart of major urban areas, where towering skyscrapers meet pockets of lush greenery, urban farming isn't just a passing trend—it's a potent force for change. With a steadfast commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, individuals like Amico are planting the seeds of transformation and harvesting hope in neighborhoods c…
…
continue reading
Soil Cousins and Flower Fiends, the first is episode of this new season is dedicated to you! Today, we're immersing ourselves in the captivating realm of floriography—the language of flowers—a lexicon that can convey almost any sentiment imaginable. Join us as we explore the hidden meanings behind blooms and celebrate some remarkable women who've b…
…
continue reading
Welcome to "Black in the Garden," where culture thrives and roots run deep. Hosted by Colah B. Tawkin, this podcast celebrates the intersection of nature's beauty and the rich tapestry of black culture. Now, in collaboration with WABE, this podcast explores the diverse world of farming, agriculture, gardening, landscaping, health, wellness, and bla…
…
continue reading

1
Beyond the Blooms: Atlanta's Living History Gardens
53:09
53:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:09Presented by Black in the Garden LLC in partnership with Atlanta History Center Episode 3: Get ready for a special Spring treat as Black in the Garden gears up for a relaunch! Colah B Tawkin is joined by Sarah Carter, Vice President, Goizueta Gardens and Living Collections on a captivating journey through the historic and lush landscapes of the Atl…
…
continue reading

1
Tawkin Spicy: The Dark History of Pumpkin Spice
1:04:32
1:04:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:32The 4th anniversary of Black in the Garden (November 19) is upon us at the same time as the Season of Gratitude! Our host, Colah B Tawkin, is giving thanks for what’s to come and reflecting on her 4 year journey. We’re kicking off the multi episode celebration of four years cultivating conversations around Black culture and horticulture. Soil Cousi…
…
continue reading

1
Soil Cousin Appreciation & Fun Fern Facts
49:48
49:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:48In this special episode of Black in the Garden, we kick off our 4th Anniversary celebration with heartfelt listener appreciation. Colah B Tawkin begins by expressing gratitude to our incredible community of plant enthusiasts. To highlight the spirit of our community, we feature a remarkable Soil cousin, Davida, known as @condoplantmama. Davida's jo…
…
continue reading
In this special announcement episode, we have some exciting news to share! Colah B Tawkin is taking a beat to reflect on her recent debut at TEDx Jacksonville and prepare for an upcoming speaking engagement at Cornell University. In light of the current tragic events happening in the world, Colah wants to take a moment to acknowledge and stand in s…
…
continue reading
Ready for an exciting deep dive into Wakanda's botany and soil?! In this special episode, we're thrilled to be joined by two fellow Wakanda enthusiasts and friends of the show, Niyya @theBloomJourney and Derek our resident ETHNO-botanist. Host, Colah B. Tawkin opens with an exciting announcement about her TedX debut in Jacksonville, FL. In this Afr…
…
continue reading

1
The REAL Cost of Chocolate: Throwback
1:04:19
1:04:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:19Colah is joined by CoHost and ethnobotany Blackspert, Derek ‘The Chocolate Botanist’ Haynes to explore the questionable ethics of chocolate cultivation. They want you to think twice before you take your next bite! Turns out, Derek is also a Roald Dahl expert as he brilliantly connected Willy Wonka lore to the subject at hand. Trigger warning: this …
…
continue reading

1
Landscaping: From the Field to the Boardroom, with Chad Carroll
49:39
49:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:39We’ve discussed landscaping before, but not quite like this. Our guest, Chad Carroll is a Senior Manager executive at SiteOne, one of the largest and most prominent players in the national landscape supply industry. Chad shares insights from his formative years and the importance of impacting the future of the Green Industry via organizations like …
…
continue reading
Join us in an exploration of cotton's journey from field to fashion as Julius Tillery engages in a thought-provoking conversation with host Colah B Tawkin. Julius touches on the intricacy of innovation, challenges, and cultural significance woven into cotton cultivation. Tillery's insights shed light on Black ownership, inheritance in farming, and …
…
continue reading

1
Foraging for Freedom: Harriet Tubman's Botanical Legacy
30:36
30:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:36Presented by Black in the Garden LLC in partnership with Atlanta History Center Episode 1: 'Foraging for Freedom: Harriet Tubman's Botanical Legacy.' Join host, Colah B Tawkin on the 2023 Summer season opener exploring Harriet Tubman's unparalleled contributions as a naturalist, cook, herbalist, forager, and ornithology enthusiast. Discover Tubman'…
…
continue reading