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 difference through his unique and artistic approach to horticulture.  

Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of topiary—the art of sculpting plants into stunning shapes. Pearl Fryar’s name stands out like a perfectly pruned masterpiece. With just a pair of shears and a lot of heart, Fryar transformed a small corner of South Carolina into a breathtaking living canvas that continues to inspire people around the globe. 

Adding to the conversation is Plant Zaddy, ready to share more insights about Fryar's journey and legacy. Tune in and get ready to see your hedges in a whole new light! 

Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden

Documentary: A Man Named Pearl

For more information, visit www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden

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 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pearl_fryar_topiarygarden/?hl=en">Pearl Fryar,</a> a man whose passion for plants goes beyond mere gardening. He’s made a real difference through his unique and artistic approach to horticulture.  
Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of topiary—the art of sculpting plants into stunning shapes. Pearl Fryar’s name stands out like a perfectly pruned masterpiece. With just a pair of shears and a lot of heart, Fryar transformed a small corner of South Carolina into a breathtaking living canvas that continues to inspire people around the globe. 
Adding to the conversation is <a href="https://www.plantzaddy.club/">Plant Zaddy</a>, ready to share more insights about Fryar's journey and legacy. Tune in and get ready to see your hedges in a whole new light! 
<a href="https://www.pearlfryargarden.org/">Pearl Fryar Topiary Garden</a>
Documentary: <a href="https://wpba.sharepoint.com/:w:/s/WABEStudios/EWrieowj4MhJt3q0UTmd-EcB0g5FaoZ506042Br51YzqXQ?e=5LQcCJ">A Man Named Pearl</a> 
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden">www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden</a>

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 hello@blkinthegarden.com. 

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 hello@blkinthegarden.com.

Black in the Garden

Storytime: Pearl Fryar, Titan of Topiary 

As 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 the cultivation and care of plants are universal, the discourse around horticulture often amplifies privileged voices while overlooking others. That’s where *Black in the Garden* stands out. Hosted by Colah B. Tawkin—gardener, researcher, and “plantrepreneur”—this podcast uplifts the experiences and expertise of Black gardeners, farmers, and plantkeepers, sharing underrepresented stories of resilience, growth, and achievement. 

Tune in to hear Colah’s reflections and insights as she continues to amplify fresh perspectives within the plant world. 

To support Black in the Garden and other public media programing this Giving Season, visit wabe.org/give

For more information, visit www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden

As we close out the year, we&rsquo;re excited to share a special conversation between *Black in the Garden* host Colah B. Tawkin and WABE&rsquo;s <a href="https://www.wabe.org/radio/city-lights/">City Lights* with Lois Reitzes</a>. In this inspiring interview, Colah reflects on her personal journey, her deep love for plants, and the importance of always striving and growing&mdash;both in life and in the garden.&nbsp;
While the cultivation and care of plants are universal, the discourse around horticulture often amplifies privileged voices while overlooking others. That&rsquo;s where *Black in the Garden* stands out. Hosted by Colah B. Tawkin&mdash;gardener, researcher, and &ldquo;plantrepreneur&rdquo;&mdash;this podcast uplifts the experiences and expertise of Black gardeners, farmers, and plantkeepers, sharing underrepresented stories of resilience, growth, and achievement.&nbsp;
Tune in to hear Colah&rsquo;s reflections and insights as she continues to amplify fresh perspectives within the plant world.&nbsp;
To support&nbsp;Black in the Garden and other public media programing this Giving Season, visit <a href="https://www.wabe.org/give">wabe.org/give</a>
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden">www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden</a>

Black in the Garden on *City Lights* with Lois Reitzes

Soil 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, Plant Zaddy, as they dive into the art of plant companionship and explore how our leafy friends can help us connect with others and ourselves. Drawing inspiration from NPR's The Art of Being Single, this conversation unpacks the joys and challenges of single life through the lens of plant care.

Discover how plants can help combat loneliness, reflect our relationship patterns, and guide us through post-breakup growth. From personal stories of relationships, single parenthood, marriage, and falling in love with plants, we’re getting real about the patience, resilience, and nurturing connections that plant care teaches us.

Whether you’re flying solo, coupled up, or somewhere in between, this episode will remind you that you’re never truly alone with your green companions by your side.

Grab your favorite plant, get cozy, and let’s dig in!

For more information, visit www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden

Soil Cousins, it&rsquo;s cuffing and holiday season&mdash;a time for matching pajamas or cozy solo nights, depending on where life finds you. Whether you&rsquo;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&mdash;and themselves.
Join Colah B. and guest cohost, Plant Zaddy, as they dive into the art of plant companionship and explore how our leafy friends can help us connect with others and ourselves. Drawing inspiration from NPR's <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/up-first-from-npr/id1222114325">The Art of Being Single</a>, this conversation unpacks the joys and challenges of single life through the lens of plant care.
Discover how plants can help combat loneliness, reflect our relationship patterns, and guide us through post-breakup growth. From personal stories of relationships, single parenthood, marriage, and falling in love with plants, we&rsquo;re getting real about the patience, resilience, and nurturing connections that plant care teaches us.
Whether you&rsquo;re flying solo, coupled up, or somewhere in between, this episode will remind you that you&rsquo;re never truly alone with your green companions by your side.
Grab your favorite plant, get cozy, and let&rsquo;s dig in!
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden">www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden</a>

Single Plant Parents: Love & Lessons from the Greenhouse

Soil 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 awareness about sustainable living and preserving the planet for future generations.

From his roots in hosting Atlanta’s Soil Festival to founding Outdoor Fresh Farm and the Outdoor Universal network, Lelo is on a mission to reconnect people to the soil and inspire eco-friendly lifestyles. He’s not just a farmer—he’s a movement, blending education, activism, and hands-on farming to empower communities and amplify the voices of Black farmers.

Tune in for an energizing conversation packed with practical tips for integrating sustainable practices into your life, whether you have a backyard, a balcony, or just a passion for greener living. Join us as we explore how Lelo’s journey is changing the game and healing the world—one step and one seed at a time.

To support Black in the Garden and other public media programing amplifying Atlanta this Giving Tuesday, visit wabe.org/give

For more information, visit www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden

Soil Cousins, get ready to be inspired! The dynamic <a href="https://www.outdoorfreshfarm.com/">Lelo Jones</a> 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 awareness about sustainable living and preserving the planet for future generations.
From his roots in hosting Atlanta’s <a href="https://www.foodwellalliance.org/soil-festival-2024">Soil Festival</a> to founding <a href="https://www.outdoorfreshfarm.com/">Outdoor Fresh Farm</a> and the Outdoor Universal network, Lelo is on a mission to reconnect people to the soil and inspire eco-friendly lifestyles. He’s not just a farmer—he’s a movement, blending education, activism, and hands-on farming to empower communities and amplify the voices of Black farmers.
Tune in for an energizing conversation packed with practical tips for integrating sustainable practices into your life, whether you have a backyard, a balcony, or just a passion for greener living. Join us as we explore how Lelo’s journey is changing the game and healing the world—one step and one seed at a time.
To support Black in the Garden and other public media programing amplifying Atlanta this Giving Tuesday, visit <a href="https://www.wabe.org/give">wabe.org/give</a>
For more information, visit <a href="http://www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden">www.wabe.org/podcasts/blackinthegarden</a>

Storytime: Pearl Fryar, Titan of Topiary

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