Herbalist, teacher, and activist Fiona Heckels of the Seed Sistas joins us to explore the fascinating and often misunderstood world of poison plants. From belladonna to henbane and beyond, the Solanaceae family has long been associated with danger, magic, and transformation. In this episode, Fiona shares insights into the history, folklore, and pharmacology of these plants, as well as their place in modern herbal practice. We also discuss how plants intersect with activism, gender dynamics, and the reclaiming of ancestral knowledge.
Whether you’re curious about the myths, the medicine, or the magic, this conversation offers a thought-provoking look at the power of plants to challenge, heal, and inspire.
In this rich and expansive episode, we’re joined by David Winston, clinical herbalist, ethnobotanist, and one of the most respected voices in modern herbal medicine. With over five decades of study and clinical experience, David takes us on a journey through the forgotten history and practical brilliance of the Eclectic medical tradition.
From childhood memories of plantain poultices to rediscovering 19th-century herbal texts at a Vermont book sale, David weaves together personal stories, clinical pearls, and sharp historical insight. We explore how the Eclectics practiced vitalist medicine with precision, specificity, and humility—and why their teachings still matter today.
You’ll learn about:
The origins and philosophy of the Eclectic movement
How to match specific herbs to specific people using herbal energetics
Misunderstood herbs like wild yam and Collinsonia
The art of synergy (and anti-synergy) in herbal formulations
David’s vision for a future where herbal medicine and conventional care work side by side
Whether you’re an herbal student, a seasoned practitioner, or a plant-loving history nerd, this conversation is packed with deep wisdom, practical guidance, and inspiration for the journey ahead.
To learn more about David’s teachings and offerings:
🌿 David Winston’s Center for Herbal Studies – herbstudies.net
🌿 Herbalist & Alchemist herbal products – herbalist-alchemist.com
Ready to deepen your herbal journey? Explore the Practical Herbalist Diploma Program at Wild Rose College—a comprehensive path to confident, hands-on herbalism. Learn more and enroll today: https://wildrosecollege.com/product/practical-herbalist-diploma-program
Explore more from Wild Rose College: 📚 Courses, community, and herbal education: wildrosecollege.com
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Wild Rose College. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen, especially if you have a medical condition, are taking prescription medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
Welcome to The Wild Rose Podcast—a space for herbal learning, community stories, and conversations that deepen our connection to each other and the plants.
In this episode, we’re joined by Judith Hill—renowned medical astrologer, herbalist, author, and founder of the Academy for Astrological Medicine. With decades of clinical experience, groundbreaking research, and a deep passion for planetary cycles, Judith has dedicated her life to reuniting astrology and healing.
Judith’s approach is rooted in both ancient wisdom and practical application—bridging traditional medical astrology with modern herbal care and science. Together, we explore:
✨ What medical astrology is—and how it can enhance herbal diagnosis and timing ✨ The role of planetary transits in health, vitality, and recovery ✨ Judith’s research on Mars and redheads, earthquake prediction, and lunar surgeries ✨ How astrology offers a missing link in herbal and holistic medicine ✨ Key insights on lunar phases, timing remedies, and personalized herbal practice
Whether you’re astro-curious or a seasoned star-gazer, this conversation offers a fascinating look at how celestial rhythms influence human health—and how we can work with them.
Connect with Judith: 🌿 Website: judithhillastrology.com 🌿 Online school: academyforastrologicalmedicine.com
Ready to deepen your herbal journey? Explore the Practical Herbalist Diploma Program at Wild Rose College—a comprehensive path to confident, hands-on herbalism. Learn more and enroll today: https://wildrosecollege.com/product/practical-herbalist-diploma-program
Explore more from Wild Rose College: 📚 Courses, community, and herbal education: wildrosecollege.com
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Wild Rose College. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen, especially if you have a medical condition, are taking prescription medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
Welcome to The Wild Rose Podcast—a space for herbal learning, community stories, and conversations that deepen our connection to each other and the plants.
In this episode, we’re joined by Yarrow Willard—Clinical Herbalist, educator, and Director of Wild Rose College. With a background rooted in hands-on herbal medicine and a vision for reconnecting humans to the rhythms of nature, Yarrow brings decades of insight, stories, and grounded wisdom to our conversation.
Yarrow’s approach blends ancestral knowledge, practical skills, and modern curiosity—encouraging herbalists to walk a path that’s both embodied and informed. Together, we explore:
How herbalism evolves through personal practice, connection, and mistakes
The importance of presence, humility, and heart in herbal healing
Rebalancing clinical herbalism with land-based and intuitive traditions
Why the “plant path” is about lifelong listening—not arriving
Practical tips for seasonal living, simple remedies, and staying curious
The vision behind Wild Rose College and building herbal community
Whether you're new to herbs or decades into your journey, this episode invites you to slow down, tune in, and remember that herbalism isn’t just knowledge—it’s relationship.
Connect with Yarrow:
🌿 Instagram: @herbal_jedi
🌿 Website: www.harmonicarts.ca, www.wildrosecollege.com
🌿 Join Us in June 2025! 🌿
We’re celebrating 50 years of Wild Rose College with a special in-person Herb Gathering in beautiful Kananaskis, Alberta! Connect with fellow plant lovers, learn from renowned herbalists, and honour five decades of herbal education and community.
🎟️ Grab your tickets now at celebrate50.wildrosecollege.com – we’d love to see you there!
Ready to deepen your herbal journey? Explore the Practical Herbalist Diploma Program at Wild Rose College—a comprehensive path to confident, hands-on herbalism.
Click here to learn more and enroll today!
Explore more from Wild Rose College: 📚 Courses, community, and herbal education: wildrosecollege.com
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Wild Rose College. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen, especially if you have a medical condition, are taking prescription medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
Welcome to The Wild Rose Podcast—a space for herbal learning, community stories, and conversations that deepen our connection to each other and the plants.
In this episode, we’re joined by 7Song—clinical herbalist, educator, botanist, and director of the Northeast School of Botanical Medicine. Known for his practical, no-nonsense approach, 7Song has spent decades offering herbal care on the frontlines of community health—from free clinics to protest camps to field first-aid stations.
Together, we explore:
What inclusive men’s health looks like through a herbal lens—and why it matters
Providing real-time herbal care at Rainbow Gatherings and Standing Rock
His work at the Ithaca Free Clinic and what true integrative care can look like
Go-to herbs for anxiety, cognition, infections, and immune support
Thoughts on education, accessibility, and the evolving world of herbal regulation
What keeps him grounded after decades of practicing community herbalism
Whether you’re dreaming of your own apothecary or already supporting others with plant medicine, this episode offers gritty stories, grounded insights, and decades of lived herbal experience.
🫖 Pour yourself a cup of tea—and let’s dive in.
Ready to deepen your herbal journey? Explore the Practical Herbalist Diploma Program at Wild Rose College—a comprehensive path to confident, hands-on herbalism.
Click here to learn more and enroll today!
Explore more from Wild Rose College: 📚 Courses, community, and herbal education: wildrosecollege.com
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Wild Rose College. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen, especially if you have a medical condition, are taking prescription medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
Welcome to The Wild Rose Podcast—a space for herbal learning, community stories, and conversations that deepen our connection to each other and the plants.
In this episode, we’re joined by Carley McConkey—a holistic nutritionist, clinical herbalist, and passionate educator whose work centers on body literacy, accessible wellness, and women’s health.
Carley’s path into herbalism began with her own healing journey through hormonal imbalances, anxiety, and a deep disconnection from her body. From that place, she discovered the magic of food as medicine, the intelligence of the menstrual cycle, and the spirit-healing power of herbs.
Together, we explore:
Her evolution from holistic nutrition to clinical herbalism
The power of truly listening to your body (and the unlearning that requires)
How modern healthcare fails to meet women’s needs—and how herbalism offers a different way
Accessible wellness through kitchen medicine, broths, and energetics
Flower essences, drop dosing, and those intuitive plant moments
Reframing “peak health” and embracing joy, nourishment, and community as part of healing
Whether you’re new to plant medicine or a seasoned practitioner, this episode invites you to reconnect with your body, your intuition, and the plants that support both.
🫖 Pour yourself a cup of tea—and let’s dive in.
Connect with Carley: 🌿 Website: carleynadine.com 🌿 Instagram: @carleynadine
Ready to deepen your herbal journey? Explore the Practical Herbalist Diploma Program at Wild Rose College—a comprehensive path to confident, hands-on herbalism.
Explore more from Wild Rose College: 📚 Courses, community, and herbal education: wildrosecollege.com
Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Wild Rose College. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health regimen, especially if you have a medical condition, are taking prescription medications, or are pregnant or nursing.
