Acorn to Oak is a tree care and arboriculture podcast hosted by Stefanie Boucher. Each episode features expert conversations with ISA Certified Arborists, tree care professionals, and industry leaders from Bluestone Tree and beyond.
This podcast explores practical tree care advice, plant health care (PHC), soil science, pruning best practices, tree biology, urban forestry, wildlife-friendly trees, and how homeowners can make informed decisions about their landscape.
Whether you're a homeowner, property manager, landscaping professional, or aspiring arborist studying for the ISA Certified Arborist exam, Acorn to Oak delivers educational, science-based tree care information in an accessible and engaging format.
Learn how to choose the right trees, protect tree health, prevent common tree problems, and understand the long-term value of professional arboriculture.
Oak Wilt in Indiana: Symptoms, Spread, Treatment & Prevention
Oak wilt can be devastating to oak trees, but a declining oak doesn’t automatically mean oak wilt. In this episode Stefanie of Acorn to Oak, is joined by Board Certified Master Arborist Ashton Phelps to break down oak wilt disease in Indiana, including the symptoms homeowners should watch for, how oak wilt spreads through root grafts and sap feeding beetles, and why proper diagnosis and laboratory testing matter.
We also share our own experiences with suspected oak wilt in Indiana and discuss oak wilt treatment and prevention.
If you own oak trees or want to better understand oak wilt symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, this episode is a great place to start.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, contact Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to help. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
Purdue University has a great article on Oak Wilt. Check it out, https://purduelandscapereport.org//article/oak-wilt-in-indiana/ (https://purduelandscapereport.org//article/oak-wilt-in-indiana/)
23 Sept 2026
Rescue Stories from the Canopy: The Hawk Rescue with Matt Baldwin
Not every call an arborist gets is about tree work. In our second special short episode of Acorns to Oak, ISA Certified Arborist Matt Baldwin shares the story of rescuing a hawk caught high in a tree.
We talk about how the situation unfolded, the challenges of reaching and safely handling a wild bird, and how professional tree climbing and arborist skills helped make an unusual wildlife rescue possible.
It’s a unique story about arboriculture, wildlife, and one very memorable day in the canopy.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, contact Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to help. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
23 Sept 2026
Rescue Stories from the Canopy: The Cat Rescue with Ash Phelps
Sometimes working in the trees means helping more than just trees. In this special short episode of Acorns to Oak, ISA Certified Arborist Ash Phelps shares the story of an unexpected cat rescue high in the canopy. We talk about what happened, the challenges of safely reaching and rescuing a stranded cat, and how an arborist’s climbing skills can come in handy in some pretty unusual situations.
It’s a quick, fun look at one of the more unexpected sides of life as a professional arborist.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, contact Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to help. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
9 Sept 2026
Urban Forestry: The Hidden Challenges of Managing City Trees
What does it really take to manage a city’s trees? In this episode, we sit down with Haskell Smith, ISA Certified Arborist and Urban Forester for the City of Bloomington Parks & Recreation, to explore the realities of urban forestry in Bloomington, Indiana.
We talk about the challenges of managing an urban forest, from tree selection, species diversity, and long term tree health to limited rooting space, sidewalks, utilities, budgets, and public expectations. Haskell also shares how much control an urban forester actually has when working within existing city infrastructure, including those notoriously difficult planting spaces known as “tree coffins.”
It’s a behind-the-scenes look at the decisions, challenges, and planning that go into growing and protecting the trees that make up our urban communities.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, contact Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to help. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
What makes great compost—and what can it actually do for your soil?
In this episode, we sit down with Bloomington farmer Jonas Carpenter to hear his story and learn why compost has become an important part of his farm and growing practices. Jonas shares the long-term benefits he’s seen from using locally produced compost and why soil health matters for everything we grow.
Grayden Bloxham, co-owner of Bluestone Tree and head of the Recycling Division, joins us to break down how Bluestone’s compost is made, what goes into it, and what makes quality finished compost different from raw organic material.
From vegetable gardens and farms to trees and residential landscapes, we dig into compost, organic matter, healthier soil, sustainability, and why keeping these resources local matters.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, contact Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to connect with you. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
12 Aug 2026
The Closest Calls: Arborists Share Their Scariest Moments
Tree work is one of the most dangerous professions in the world, and every arborist has a story they'll never forget. In this episode, ISA Certified Arborists Simon, Matt, and Ash share the scariest moments of their careers, the split-second decisions that kept them safe, and the lessons those experiences taught them. From close calls to valuable safety takeaways, this conversation highlights why proper training, professionalism, and a commitment to safety are at the heart of every successful arborist.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, reach out to Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to connect with you. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
29 Jul 2026
The Case for Oaks: Resilient Trees for Modern Communities
Oak trees are some of the most valuable trees we can plant—but choosing the right oak for the right location ensures they thrive.
In this episode, ISA Board Certified Master Arborist Ashton Phelps joins us to explore why oaks are among the best trees for urban landscapes. We discuss selecting the right species for the right space, why tree diversity matters, the dangers of monocultures, the incredible ecological benefits of oaks, and how proper establishment ensures generations of healthy growth.
Whether you're a homeowner, arborist, landscaper, municipal forester, or simply someone who loves trees, this episode will help you better understand why oaks play such an important role in creating healthier, more resilient communities.
15 Jul 2026
Why Should You Hire an ISA Certified Arborist?
In this episode of Acorn to Oak, Stefanie Boucher sits down with fellow ISA Certified Arborist, John Xanders of Xanderbuilt Tree Care, to discuss why professional tree assessments matter before any tree pruning or tree removal begins.
Learn what it takes to become an ISA Certified Arborist, how arborists evaluate tree health, structural defects, and safety risks, and why expert guidance can help homeowners avoid costly mistakes while protecting the long-term health of their trees.
Whether you're concerned about a hazardous tree, planning a pruning project, or wondering if a tree should be removed, this episode explains how certified arborists make informed recommendations rooted in science, experience, and safety.
1 Jul 2026
Crane Work in Arboriculture: Safety, Skill & Trust with Joe Rainwater
In this episode of Acorn to Oak, Joe Rainwater of RISE dives into crane-assisted tree work, sharing his expertise in the planning, precision, and communication required for safe, successful operations. He discusses the importance of teamwork between climbers and crane operators, the risks of complex removals, and the mindset needed to manage high-stakes situations. Whether you're an arborist, equipment operator, or simply curious about the intersection of tree care and heavy machinery, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the industry's most demanding specialties.
17 Jun 2026
Trees Are Our Friends: Favorite Trees, Tree Stories, and the Ones That Shape Us
What makes a tree unforgettable?
In this laid-back, coffee-shop-style conversation, ISA Certified Arborists Stefanie Boucher and Simon Normile share stories about the trees that have inspired them throughout their lives and careers. From childhood memories and favorite species to legendary trees that have shaped communities and history, this episode explores the unique connections people form with the trees around them.
Along the way, they discuss what makes certain trees special, the lessons trees can teach us, and why some specimens leave a lasting impact long after we're gone. Whether you're a tree enthusiast, nature lover, homeowner, or simply someone who has a favorite tree in your own story, this episode offers a heartfelt look at the relationship between people and the living giants that share our world.
Grab a cup of coffee and join us for a conversation about the trees we love, the stories they hold, and the reasons we keep coming back to them.
10 Jun 2026
Tree Work then and Now: Rick Patrick on 50 years of Change
In Part 2 of our conversation with veteran arborist and early ISA Certified Arborist Rick Patrick, we explore one of the most fascinating transformations in arboriculture: the evolution of chainsaws, cranes, climbing systems, and safety equipment over the last 50 years.
Rick reflects on what tree work looked like when he entered the industry and compares it to the equipment and techniques arborists use today. From heavy, hard-starting chainsaws and basic climbing gear to modern battery-powered saws, advanced rope systems, mechanical ascenders, and highly specialized tree removal cranes, Rick shares a firsthand perspective on how technology has reshaped the profession.
Join ISA Certified Arborists Matt Baldwin and Stefanie Boucher as they talk with Rick's and get a rare look at the tools, techniques, and innovations that transformed arboriculture from a physically demanding trade into the highly specialized profession we know today.
Whether you're an arborist, tree climber, crane operator, forestry professional, or someone fascinated by the history of skilled trades, this episode offers valuable insight into how tree care equipment has evolved and where the industry may be headed next. Please follow, subscribe and share.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, reach out to Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to connect with you. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
20 May 2026
Roots of Arboriculture: 50 Years in Tree Care with Rick Patrick
Join ISA Certified Arborists Stefanie Boucher and Matt Baldwin for a special interview with Rick Patrick, one of the earliest ISA Certified Arborists and a respected mentor to generations of tree professionals. With nearly five decades in the tree care industry, Rick shares stories from his early days working in California, the evolution of arboriculture, and his journey bringing that knowledge back to Indiana.
From old school climbing techniques and pruning practices to modern tree preservation and urban forestry, this episode explores how the industry has changed over the years and why mentorship, education, and passion for trees still matter today.
If you love trees, arboriculture, tree climbing, urban forestry, or hearing stories from longtime professionals in the green industry, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Join us in two weeks on Acorn to Oak for Part Two of our conversation with Rick Patrick, where Rick shares how tree care equipment and climbing gear have evolved over the decades, from the early days of arboriculture to the modern tools used in the industry today.
Hosted by ISA Certified Arborists Stefanie Boucher and Matt Baldwin of Bluestone Tree. For more information go to www.bluestonetree.com or email us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com.
6 May 2026
Wildfire, Tree Care, and Ax Men: Lessons from a Hotshot Turned Tree Company Owner
What does it take to work on the front lines of wildfire—and how does that experience shape the way we care for trees today? In this episode of Acorn to Oak, ISA Certified Arborists Stefanie Boucher and Jerad Oren of Bluestone Tree share a conversation about Jerad’s experience as a Hotshot firefighter and his time on the History Channel’s Ax Men. We dive into life on a Hotshot crew, wildfire behavior, forest health, and how fire experience translates into better tree care and land management. This episode is perfect for homeowners, landowners, and anyone interested in arboriculture, wildfire risk, and real-world tree expertise.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, reach out to Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to connect with you. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
15 Apr 2026
Killing Trees with Kindness: Common Yard Mistakes & How to Spot Problems Early
Today's episode we talk about how you might think you’re doing everything right for your trees. You have been mulching, trimming, keeping things tidy, but what if some of those well intentioned habits are actually causing long term damage?
Today on Acorn to Oak, we’re talking about the most common mistakes homeowners make often without realizing it and how simple changes can make a huge difference in the health and longevity of your trees. We’ll also talk about how to actually look at your trees and what to watch for, and how to catch structural issues before they turn into real problems.
I’m Stefanie Boucher, joined by fellow ISA Certified Arborists Matt Baldwin and Simon Normile and this is Acorn to Oak.
If you have questions about your trees or want a professional evaluation, reach out to Bluestone Tree. A certified arborist would be happy to connect with you. You can contact us at bloomington@bluestonetree.com or visit www.bluestonetree.com.
What’s happening beneath your trees plays a bigger role in their health than most people realize. In this episode of Acorn to Oak, Stefanie Boucher is joined by fellow ISA Certified Arborist and PHC specialist Jerry White to explore why soil testing matters, how soil health impacts tree and shrub vitality, and how arborists use soil data to guide treatment plans. If you want healthier trees, it all starts with understanding the soil.
15 Mar 2026
Mulch Matters: How Proper Mulching Benefits your Trees and Soil
Mulch does much more than make landscapes look nice. It plays a critical role in tree health, soil biology, and moisture retention.
In this episode, Stefanie talks with ISA Certified Arborist and Bluestone Tree co-owner Grayden Bloxham about why proper mulching is an important part of tree care. This episode we discuss the benefits of mulch, soil health, moisture conservation, weed suppression, and how recycling tree debris into mulch supports sustainable landscapes.
Grayden also explains common mistakes like mulch volcanoes and how homeowners can mulch trees correctly to protect roots and improve long-term tree health.
If you have any questions from today's episode, please email one of our Bluestone Tree, ISA Certified Arborist at bloomington@bluestonetree.com
Music intro by Stefanie Boucher and Sarah Kenny
27 Feb 2026
Wildlife Friendly Trees: What Every Homeowner Should Know
In the first episode of Acorn to Oak, host Stefanie Boucher sits down with Bluestone Tree’s ISA Certified Arborists Ash Phelps, Matt Baldwin, and Simon Normile to explore a question many homeowners ask about tree care and tree selection: which trees attract wildlife in the Midwest and which ones do not. From native species that attract birds and pollinators to commonly planted trees that offer little ecological benefit, this episode dives into wildlife-friendly tree selection, biodiversity, urban tree care, and practical guidance for planting with purpose. Whether you're a homeowner, tree enthusiast, or green industry professional, this episode brings expert arborist insight to smarter tree decisions.
If you have any questions from today's episode, please email one of our Bluestone Tree, ISA Certified Arborist at bloomington@bluestonetree.com
Music intro by Stefanie Boucher and Sarah Kenny
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