What does it mean to grow up saved—and then spend your career studying how race, religion, and power have always been tangled together in the west? Christy sits down with Ed J. Blum, historian of Ideas, to find out. From his evangelical upbringing in suburban New Jersey to his landmark scholarship on W.E.B. Du Bois, Ed traces the through-line between personal faith and intellectual obsession. He and Christy swap stories of religious intensity— her family's fervor (at least on Easter), his Mis...

In this episode, Christy checks in with a spring update from the Finger Lakes region of New York, where she'll be based full-time after permanently wrapping up a professional affiliation in North Carolina. She covers the famously unforgiving Tompkins County frost calendar—last freeze as late as May 30—and what that means for her raised garden bed at the Cottages, where she's planning a split experiment: half given over to creeping Charlie, half to two varieties of sunflower. She also introduc...

March 11, 2026. My son's 20th Birthday. A turning that took place in Heaven.

Common Grackle Operated a Soda Dispenser in Howard University Cafeteria. You read that right. In this episode of Random Nature, Christy challenges conventional wisdom about avian behavior. What happens when birds don't follow the rulebook? From American Robins defying dietary expectations to the surprising intelligence of the much-maligned Common Grackle, I explore how birds adapt to changing environments and food sources. Christy also shares a BHM fact about the importance of Howard Universi...

On this special MLK Day episode, I explore how Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s fight for justice connects directly to today’s climate crisis. From his support of sanitation workers to the roots of the environmental justice movement, I trace how King’s vision of equality and dignity for all inspires climate scientists, activists, and communities on the front lines. Join me as I examine the links between civil rights, environmental protection, and the urgent work of building a just, livable future...

In this bonus episode of Random Nature, Christy shares heartfelt reflections on the significance of the day, not only as a time for gratitude but also as a momentous occasion marking the release of their trade book, set for November 27, 2025, by Bloomsbury. With a focus on the current economic challenges facing many listeners, Christy emphasizes that there’s no pressure to purchase the book; instead, she is simply excited to share this milestone.

Hey everyone! It’s been a minute, and I just wanted to check in with you all. I’m still hanging in there, staying prayed up and meditated up amidst the tough times in my home country. A big shoutout to all the ADVOCATES holding the line—let’s keep that hope alive! I wanted to give you some updates. First off, I’m working on a new episode that should be out this summer. I know it’s been a while, but I appreciate your patience. The exciting news is that my book, "Cultural Heritage Resilience ...

Welcome back to Random Nature, the podcast where Christy the birder/academic explores the enchanting and often surprising connections between humanity and the natural world. Today she engages in a lively discussions with a fascinating guests, This week she talks to Eric K., a journalist based in the D.C. area. We mention: Canada Geese Urban foxes campus food delivery robots.

In this poignant episode, Christy reflects on the heavy emotions surrounding her new year, a time that marks not just a fresh start but also deep sorrow for those who mourn the loss of a child. With an emphasis on Sufi philosophy, Christy navigates the concept of death as a reunion with the divine, offering solace amidst the heartache of losing her younger child Ricky, a vibrant spirit whose brief life brought immense joy to his family and friends. As Christy shares cherished memories, includ...

Welcome back to another episode of the Random Nature Podcast! In this bonus episode titled "Things Keep Breaking, Part Two," host Christy Hyman shares a humorous and relatable tale from her adventures in bird photography. After enjoying some successful shots of various birds at Myers Point in Lansing, New York, Christy faces a frustrating technical challenge when her camera malfunctions while capturing backyard visitors. Determined to troubleshoot, she tries multiple SD cards, updates ...