TreeActions

Summary

In this episode of the Tree Actions podcast, host Tony speaks with arborist Chris Girard about his lifelong connection to trees, his journey from plumbing to tree care, and the importance of safety and education in the industry. Chris shares personal anecdotes about climbing trees as a child, the emotional impact of removing trees he grew up with, and the challenges of transitioning careers. The conversation also touches on the significance of sleep and hydration for safety in tree work, as well as the joy and fulfillment Chris finds in his work as a climber. In this conversation, Chris Girard shares his journey through a life-threatening health crisis, detailing the experience of having a heart attack while working as a climber. He discusses the challenges of recovery, the importance of resilience, and the need for planning for the future in the arborist industry. The conversation also explores the evolution of tree work with advancements in technology, the increasing mechanization of the industry, and the significance of knowledge sharing and community among arborists. In this conversation, Chris Girard and Tony discuss the complexities of social media in the tree care industry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining professional standards and the challenges posed by misinformation. They explore the evolution of climbing techniques and tools, highlighting the significance of innovation in the industry. The discussion also touches on the art of splicing and the unique aspects of climbing techniques across different disciplines, ultimately reflecting on their shared passion for tree care and the stories that connect them.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Arborist Life
01:15 Early Memories of Climbing Trees
05:23 Connection to Trees and Their Impact
07:30 Transition from Plumbing to Tree Work
10:12 Education and Career Path in Engineering
15:27 Starting a Tree Care Company
19:18 Learning and Growing in the Industry
22:41 Safety Practices in Tree Work
28:00 The Importance of Sleep and Hydration
30:02 Making the Leap to Full-Time Tree Work
32:09 Facing a Life-Changing Health Crisis
37:34 The Road to Recovery and Resilience
39:44 Embracing Change and Planning for the Future
42:17 The Evolution of Tree Work and Technology
49:11 The Future of the Arborist Industry
56:52 Knowledge Sharing and Community in Tree Work
01:04:14 Navigating Social Media in the Tree Care Industry
01:06:19 The Importance of Professional Standards
01:09:35 The Evolution of Climbing Techniques and Tools
01:12:10 The Role of Innovation in Tree Care Equipment
01:15:52 Comparing Climbing Techniques Across Disciplines
01:19:20 The Art and Craft of Splicing
01:26:18 Reflecting on the Journey in Tree Care