
Plant Cunning Podcast
Plant Cunning Podcast brings together people wise to the ways of plants, fungi, healing practices, & the natural world to explore the mysteries of Nature. Co-Hosted by astrologer, gardener & musician, Isaac Hill and herbalist & educator A.C. Stauble. We invite herbalists, mages, mycologists, gardeners, community organizers, healers, spiritual seekers & all kinds of other interesting people to the microphone to share their wisdom. We like to bridge different worlds, make connections, inspire, and at times, have our minds blown by our amazing guests. Enjoy!
Latest episodes

Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 12min
Ep. 177: Exploring Earth Mysteries with John Michael Greer
Welcome to the Plant Cunning Podcast! Join hosts, AC Stauble and Isaac Hill, as they delve into the intriguing world of Earth Mysteries with returning guest, John Michael Greer. In this episode, they discuss Greer's newest book, the Earth Mysteries Workbook, which encourages readers to explore local legends, ancient sites, and unusual phenomena in their own areas. From ley lines and the Newport Tower to the fundamental techniques of magic, this conversation covers the fascinating intersection of spirituality, occultism, and earth mysteries. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to these concepts, you'll find valuable insights and practical advice on connecting with the subtle dimensions of the land around you. Tune in for an enlightening episode that bridges the gap between the unexplained, the mystical, and the practical!
00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast
00:31 Welcoming John Michael Greer
01:01 Exploring the Earth Mysteries Workbook
05:00 The Context and Background of Earth Mysteries
11:04 The Newport Tower and Other American Mysteries
28:27 The Myth of Disenchantment
38:22 Core Practices of a Magician
39:20 Protective Rituals and Symbolic Balance
40:36 Discursive Meditation: A Different Approach
44:12 Understanding Divination
45:24 The Importance of Ritual, Meditation, and Divination
46:07 Challenges in Modern Occult Practices
51:18 The Three Paths: Magician, Occultist, Mystic
01:07:55 Practical Advice for Connecting with Earth Mysteries
01:11:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 7min
Ep.176: The Feral Church with Byron Ballard
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast we sit down with returning guest Byron Ballard to talk about recovering from the devestation of hurricane Helene, mutual aide, and her new book, the Feral Church.

Feb 4, 2025 • 53min
Ep.175: Exploring Medical Astrology, Sound Healing, and Transdisciplinary Practices with Will Morris
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Will Morris, an accomplished astrologer, TCM practitioner, sound healer, and musician. Morris discusses his expertise in pulse diagnosis, sound healing with Indian classical instruments, and the integration of various modalities like astrology, herbalism, and homeopathy. He delves into the connections between music, numbers, and astrological principles, emphasizing the transdisciplinary nature of his work. The conversation also explores his insights into Vedic and Renaissance astrology, the significance of the tropical and sidereal zodiacs, and the use of different systems and techniques for medical purposes. The episode concludes with a preview of Morris's upcoming book 'Sky in Medicine' and its contribution to the fields of astrology and traditional medicine.
00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast
00:31 Meet Will Morris: Astrologer and Healer
01:19 Exploring Sound Healing and Music
02:46 Astrology and Its Connections
06:37 The Beauty of an Organized Cosmos
08:18 The Intersection of Music and Astrology
12:01 The Journey into Herbalism
17:52 Understanding Pulse Diagnosis
25:25 Understanding Planetary Dignities
26:28 Astrological Indicators of Health
27:57 Blood Depletion and Chinese Medicine
30:23 Astrological Chart and Ancestral Trauma
32:59 Pulse Diagnosis and Ancestral Work
40:30 Integrating Astrological Systems
44:32 The Role of Different Astrological Techniques
50:58 Conclusion and Future Works

Jan 21, 2025 • 1h 10min
Ep. 174: Matthew Merlin Kenney & Crystal Woodling on the Enchanted World
Sign up for Merlin's course "GNOSIS" by January 24th for 15% off using the code plantcunning15 at
GNOSIS — Ancient Astrology
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome old friends Merlin and Crystal from the School of Heaven and Earth. Merlin, an astrologer, and Crystal, an herbalist, share their journeys of how they delved into the world of astrology and herbalism. They discuss the intriguing dynamic of couples in these complementary fields, the importance of practical astrology, and the integration of ancient wisdom in modern practices. The conversation also touches on Taoist traditions, the significance of nature in healing, and the practices of plant dieting. Additionally, they highlight their approaches to teaching astrology and herbalism through the School of Heaven and Earth, focusing on grounding practices and connecting with the natural world. Merlin also introduces his Gnosis course, blending Hellenistic astrology with ritual magic for comprehensive spiritual growth and practical results.
00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast
00:35 Meet Merlin and Crystal: Astrologer and Herbalist Duo
01:34 Merlin's Journey into Astrology and Herbalism
09:47 Crystal's Path to Herbal Medicine and Magic
15:34 The School of Heaven and Earth: Bridging Astrology and Herbalism
19:40 Connecting with Nature: Practices and Experiences
32:31 Astrological and Herbal Practices at the School
36:11 Exploring Astrological and Plant Spirit Courses
37:09 Foundations of Astrology and Herbalism
40:58 Embodied Learning and Planetary Practices
52:52 The Role of Astrology in Herbalism
57:23 Challenges and Techniques in Astrological Practice
01:06:04 Gnosis: A Comprehensive Astrology Course

Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 11min
Ep: 173: the Mystical and Medicinal World of Chocolate with Marcos Patchett
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill interview herbalist and author Marcos Patchett. Marcos shares his journey into herbalism and medical astrology, influenced by his grandfather and a series of personal experiences. He discusses his in-depth research on cacao, chronicled in his books 'The Secret Life of Chocolate' and 'Pharmacocoa.' The conversation delves into the history, cultivation, traditional preparation, and medicinal benefits of cacao, highlighting its unique qualities and its significant cultural impact in Mesoamerica. Marcos also touches on his new medical astrology education platform, Plan*tarium, designed for herbalists and medical practitioners.
00:00 Introduction to the Plant Cunning Podcast
00:31 Meet Marcos Hatchet: Herbalist and Author
01:00 Discussing Chocolate and Astrology
02:02 Marcos' Journey into Herbalism
08:24 The Influence of Mentors and Teachers
11:34 The Obsession with Chocolate
15:05 The Holy Grail of Chocolate
23:55 Cacao Cultivation and Mythology
38:36 The Resilient Dandelion and Planetary Herbs
40:14 Cacao: The Venusian Delight
41:06 The Complex Nature of Cacao
44:27 Traditional Preparation of Cacao
45:07 Foaming Agents and Techniques
57:33 Medicinal Uses of Cacao
01:02:19 Choosing the Right Cacao
01:07:03 Books, Reviews, and Courses

Jan 1, 2025 • 1h 14min
Ep. 172: Talking 2025 with ZamboniFunk (Year ahead forecast)
n this special edition of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill are joined by astrologer ZamboniFunk to explore the year ahead in 2025. Zamboni delves deep into the astrological shifts that are forecasted for the upcoming year. Join us as we discuss the significant changes in the outer planets, the influence of Mars, Venus, and Mercury retrogrades, and what Neptune's transition into Aries means for all of us. Prepare for an engaging conversation on navigating this period of transformation, how to interpret astrological signs, and how to thrive amidst change. Whether you're a seasoned astrology enthusiast or just curious about the stars, this episode offers insights that everyone can appreciate. Tune in and prepare to ride the astro waves of 2025 with us! #Astrology2025 #PlantCunningPodcast

Dec 18, 2024 • 54min
Ep. 171: Sue Morris on Aromatherapy and Astrology
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Sue Morris (find her at
https://www.suesalves.com) , an herbalist, aromatherapist, author, and astrologer. Sue shares her journey into the plant path, which began with a life-changing connection to the earth at the first Earth Day in Manhattan. She explores her integration of astrology and herbalism, detailing her unique approach to planting by the moon and harvesting by planetary hours. Sue also delves into her book, 'Scents of Self,' which combines elements of astrology and aromatherapy to create personalized scents based on astrological charts. The conversation also covers Sue's adventures in the Caribbean, where she's been exploring native plants and making herbal salves. Don't miss this enriching discussion on the intricate bonds between nature, astrology, and human well-being. #PlantCunningPodcast #Herbalism #Aromatherapy #Astrology #SenseOfSelf #SueMorris #NaturalHealing #PlantMagic #HolisticHealth #PlantByTheMoon #LunarGardening #EssentialOils #CaribbeanHerbalism

Dec 11, 2024 • 1h 2min
Ep. 170: Digestion and Herbalism with Christine Herbert
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill sit down with UK-based herbalist and author Christine Herbert. Christine shares her extensive knowledge on the vital role of digestion in overall health and discusses her newly released book, 'Digestion, The Key to Good Health: Gastrointestinal Wellbeing Using Herbs and Natural Healing.' They delve into the importance of personalized dietary choices, the impact of modern food processing on gut health, and practical herbal remedies for common digestive issues. Tune in to learn more about how healing your gut can lead to improved health and wellness.
#digestion #herbalism #herbalist

Nov 27, 2024 • 1h 44min
Ep.169: Mambo Liz & Yvonne Chireau on Voodoo, Hoodoo, and Africana Spirituality
In this special episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome two distinguished guests: Dr. Yvonne Chireau, a scholar who has authored the influential book 'Black Magic: Religion and the African American Conjuring Tradition', delving into hoodoo and voodoo in America, and Mambo Elizabeth Ruth, the proprietor of Big Liz Conjure. This episode takes listeners on a journey into the intersections of African diasporic spiritual practices and plant-based knowledge. Dr. Chereau and Mambo Ruth share their personal paths to becoming scholars and practitioners, exploring themes of ancestral heritage, the influence of family, and the importance of nature and healing in African American spirituality. The conversation expands into discussing the cultural and historical contexts of these practices, the implications of white supremacy, and the ethics of magic and healing. Join us for a profound discussion that sheds light on not only the spiritual but also the cultural and historical facets of African American traditions.

Nov 12, 2024 • 1h 16min
Ep. 168: Charis Lindrooth on Herbalism and Cognitive Health
In this episode of the Plant Cunning Podcast, hosts AC Stauble and Isaac Hill welcome Charis Lindrooth, the founder of BotanicWise, a chiropractor, herbalist, and educator. Charis shares insight from her deep study of brain health, cognitive function, the impact of dopamine and serotonin, and herbalism, inspired by her personal experiences and struggles with Parkinson's disease. Discover the benefits of herbs like Lion’s Mane and Reishi mushrooms, the power of cold plunges, and lifestyle tips for boosting cognitive health. This episode is packed with practical advice, touching stories, and insights into the surprising benefits of awe and resilience. Tune in for an enriching conversation that bridges science and holistic practices to support brain and overall health.
#herbalism #cognitivehealth #botanicwise #herbalist #naturalhealing #holistichealth