Chris Girard

SummaryIn 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Arborist Life01:15 Early Memories of Climbing Trees05:23 Connection to Trees and Their Impact07:30 Transition from Plumbing to Tree Work10:12 Education and Career Path in Engineering15:27 Starting a Tree Care Company19:18 Learning and Growing in the Industry22:41 Safety Practices in Tree Work28:00 The Importance of Sleep and Hydration30:02 Making the Leap to Full-Time Tree Work32:09 Facing a Life-Changing Health Crisis37:34 The Road to Recovery and Resilience39:44 Embracing Change and Planning for the Future42:17 The Evolution of Tree Work and Technology49:11 The Future of the Arborist Industry56:52 Knowledge Sharing and Community in Tree Work01:04:14 Navigating Social Media in the Tree Care Industry01:06:19 The Importance of Professional Standards01:09:35 The Evolution of Climbing Techniques and Tools01:12:10 The Role of Innovation in Tree Care Equipment01:15:52 Comparing Climbing Techniques Across Disciplines01:19:20 The Art and Craft of Splicing01:26:18 Reflecting on the Journey in Tree Care Thanks to our monthly supporters Brian Maxson Tim Bushnell Catelyst11 Trees&lps Dylan Tobe Peter LaRue Scott Andrew Hordyk Michael Tain Dwayne Sr. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★