In this engaging and entertaining conversation, I interview Derek Haynes, the Chocolate Botanist, who shares his passion for botany and the importance of understanding the historical and cultural significance of plants. We discuss ethnobotany, the integration of history into botany, and the significance of storytelling in preserving knowledge. He emphasizes the importance of accurate information in gardening, so he makes videos debunking popular creators' tips. The conversation also touches on race, perception, why we can't grow certain things we love in the U.S., and the role of local extension offices in providing reliable gardening information. We explore various aspects of urban gardening, from the curiosity that drives individuals to grow their own food to the historical context of foraging laws. We discuss the joy of nurturing plants and the transformation of lawns into productive gardens. The conversation also touches on food safety concerns, particularly regarding the use of Apeel, a new coating sprayed on produce, and emphasizes the need for self-reliance in food production. Throughout, we share some personal anecdotes and practical advice for aspiring gardeners. You can find Derek @thechocolatebotanist on social media. Go to https://urbanladyprepper.com/index.php/prepper-checklist/ for the FREE essential prepper checklist. Use the password StayReady. Check out the articles in my blog, and it comes with a player that reads them to you! Also, sign up for my weekly newsletter here: https://urbanladyprepper.com/index.php/contact/. Enjoy what you’re hearing from me? I love what I do, and I would LOVE for you to help support my work by buying me a coffee (one-time or monthly): https://ko-fi.com/urbanladyprepper, or buying some merch from my RedBubble store! https://www.redbubble.com/people/urbanldyprepper/shop They are always running specials, and you can get my designs on shirts, hoodies, hats, mugs, and more! If you want to start your podcast, Podbean has been fantastic. Go to https://www.podbean.com/start-unlimited-podcast?utm_campaign=ULPpb&utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=referralhttps://www.podbean.com/start-unlimited-podcast?utm_campaign=ULPpb&utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=referral to GET ONE MONTH FREE and start your podcast journey today! You can record your pods right from your phone; their AI will make it sound cool and professional. Let your voice be heard! Need a website to look even more legit? Hostinger is an excellent hosting service. Not tech savvy? Use their AI features to get you set up in no time and with pro email, too! Go to https://hostinger.com/?REFERRALCODE=X5GTRUSTFZEJ and get your discount! Are you concerned about rising medication costs and shortages? You can add medications such as antibiotics to your First Aid kit with a Jase Case. You can now get your daily meds too! Click http://jasemedical.com/?rstr=21271 to GET 10% OFF and be ready in case of emergency! Use Code JAM-3045 to get the discount. THANK YOU!