Plants by Wade Lee Podcast

Episode 61 w/ @hilatheearth HilaHila the Earth shares her journey from urban upbringing to becoming a sustainability advocate and Earth persona, exploring practical zero waste tips, systemic change, and the spiritual connection with Mother Earth.

Episode 60 w/ @homegrown.florida Petrina SteacyIn this episode, Petrina from Homegrown Florida shares her journey from IT to gardening, her unique approach to Florida gardening, and practical tips on planting, pest management, and seed saving. Discover how to adapt gardening strategies to Florida's climate and enjoy a thriving garden year-round.

Episode 59 w/ @solsoils Travis TheinIn this episode, Travis Thein shares the story behind Sol Soils, their sustainable soil mixes, and innovative product development. Discover how a passion for plants led to a thriving business focused on quality, sustainability, and community impact.

Episode 58 w/ @jonathanhiebert Jonathan HiebertWhat happens when a real-bearded Santa trades corporate burnout for flower crowns, TikTok, and a life built around joy? Jonathan Hiebert reveals how choosing authenticity changed everything—from his mental health to a social following that grew at lightning speed. What looks like whimsical content is actually a radical practice in self-trust. Jonathan shares the story behind becoming “Spring Santa,” why kindness and unconditional love are central to his Santa identity, and how sobriety, radical self-awareness, and hard-won boundaries helped him stop shrinking himself to fit other people’s boxes. You’ll discover: - How Jonathan went from a corporate sales job that made him miserable to a creative life that feels like home - Why a flower crown made from a coat hanger sparked a whole new artistic path - The difference between living from a place of performance and living from a place of authenticity - How he uses vulnerability, editing, and daily reflection to turn raw feelings into short videos that resonate - Why he believes some of the most powerful things we create are the ones infused with intention

Episode 57 w/ @thelecaqueen Dr. Nora MutalimaNora the Leca Queen shares her journey into semi-hydroponics, the benefits of using Leca clay balls, and practical tips for plant care enthusiasts. Discover how she transitioned from traditional potting to semi-hydro and the innovative methods she employs to keep her plants thriving.

Episode 56 w/ @woodlucker Ann WoodShe doesn’t just make paper flowers - she makes whole little worlds. Ann Wood told me she starts with one plant, studies every color, then hand-paints the paper before building it into something so real it makes you do a double take.That’s the part I love most - it’s not just botanical art. It’s observation, patience, and a deep respect for the tiny details most people walk right past. From zinnias to mushrooms to roots and insects, every piece feels like a record of what grows. Get ready to entire the creative and whimsical world of Woodlucker.

Episode 55 w/ @trashtalk_nyc David ClarkeIn this episode, David from Trash Talk NYC shares how a passion for cleaning and greening the streets of New York has organically evolved into a community-driven movement. Discover the innovative approaches, community engagement, and grassroots strategies that are transforming urban spaces block by block.

Episode 55 w/ @theg0thgarden Chloe HurstI always believed that gardening was about bright, cheerful spaces. Then I met Chloe, the Gothic Gardener, who changed my perspective entirely.For her, darkness has been a part of her identity since birth—jet black eyes, love for gothic architecture, and a fascination with the macabre. But her journey into goth gardening? Pure serendipity. It started with moonflowers and moon gardens, then blossomed into a mission to collect every dark plant she could find.Her garden is surprisingly small, yet it exudes a mystical aura—proof that even limited space can hold infinite dark beauty when curated thoughtfully. Chloe's approach is about contrast—pairing black plants with greens and silvers to highlight their eerie elegance, and sprinkling decor for that Victorian mystery.What struck me most? Her vulnerability. Chloe openly shares her mental health struggles, emphasizing how her garden is a sanctuary—a therapy that grounds her amidst life's chaos. Her story reminds us that plants aren't just aesthetic; they're healing.Now, with her debut book Darkness in Bloom, she offers a guide that makes gothic gardening accessible to all—whether you live in a cold climate or tiny apartment. It's a testament that dark beauty isn't just for the few—it's for everyone willing to embrace it. Maybe that's the point. Sometimes, the most rebellious act is simply being authentically yourself—plants, dark or bright, included.

Episode 53 w/ @cheesyplants Sam FitzgeraldEver wonder how plant lovers turn a passion into a full-time hustle?When Sam started sharing her plant journey, she never imagined it would become a career. From curating aesthetic plant setups to collaborating with brands, she realized early on: this is more than just a hobby—it's a business. Content creation is a powerful tool. Reusing videos, staying authentic, and asking for your worth—these are the secrets that helped Sam grow financially while doing what she loves. Knowing your value and being brave enough to ask for it changed everything for her.

Episode 52 w/ @concreteboutiqu.co AlyJoin Wade Lee as he chats with Aly from Concrete Boutique about her journey from a plant enthusiast to a concrete planter maker, her creative process, and her plans to expand into workshops and online sales. Discover how her family history, innovative techniques, and community collaborations shape her unique brand.